Podcasts about Gethsemane

Discussions Today Are Void of Respect About Anything; Therefore, Jesus Followers Are Called to Lift Others Up with Praise and Encouragement MESSAGE SUMMARY: Be humble, gentle, and patient bearing with one another in love. Your “calling” by Jesus is to love one another; to lift each other up; and to praise and to encourage one another. How often, in the church, do we get our feathers ruffled and start “acting like a bunch of turkeys”? Too many of us “are not responding to God's call”; but we “are doing our duty”. After all, isn't just “doing our duty” what we have been taught? Paul succinctly defines our obligations as a follower of Jesus in Ephesians 4:31-32: “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.". Our service to God is more than service or obligation (i.e., “duty”). Your “calling” should be to respond to Jesus' call by emulating Jesus in your life.     TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus' name, amen.        Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, I will live as Jesus would (Philippians 1:27). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Mathew 6:14-15; Psalms 130:3-4; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; Psalms 30:1-12. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “The Sermons on the Amount - Part 2  "Owner - A Question: Who is Lord Over All?"”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

“Keep Your Heart Open” is a soulful, progressive rock ballad exploring the pain of betrayal, the cost of love, and the choice to stay vulnerable. Inspired by Jesus' journey through Gethsemane and real-life wounds from ministry and family, this song is a prayer to remain openhearted—even when it hurts.

2 Samuel 15 speaks of the ever increasing effects of David's sin. Absalom having been brought home from his exile in Geshur now vigorously sets out to undermine his father David. Absalom is prepared to take his time by claiming that if he was a judge in the Land the citizens would have their cause fairly judged. This vain son of David pompously rides in a chariot with fifty heralds running in front of the chariot. Sadly, Absalom would send people who came for settlement of their case home, claiming that king David had not appointed anyone to give judgment. Absalom also gave those who came for judgment the kiss of favour and so stole the hearts of Israel from their ruler. David must have had some idea of what his son was doing but he was experiencing a paralysis of power - possibly as a result of his stricken conscience over his sin with Bathsheba and against David's faithful servant Uriah. In verses 7-12 Absalom decided that the time to culminate his conspiracy had come. With the king's permission he asks to go to Hebron to fulfill a vow. Absalom assembles a company of men who have a grudge against their king as well as many others who come in their innocence and are tricked into Absalom's conspiracy. Verses 13-18 says that when David heard the news he fled Jerusalem to prevent bloodshed. David left behind ten of his concubines to keep his household together. David left the city with his warriors coming also. Hushai, David's beloved counsellor, meets king David and he is asked to provide David with information about Absalom's intentions and also to endeavour to defeat the wise counsel that Ahithophel would give Absalom. This request from David came after David would not allow Hushai to accompany the king's forces. In verses 24-29 the priests - Zadok and Abiathar - are told to return to Jerusalem with the ark. If it is God's will, says David, I will return here and worship Yahweh. David with weeping ascended the Mount of Olives just as our Lord Jesus would do a thousand years later as he - our Lord - would go to the Garden of Gethsemane. It was now that David found out that Ahithophel was among those that conspired and it was at this time that David committed his cause to the LORD. And it was now that he asked his counsellor and the two priests to spy for him.  In Jeremiah 19 the prophet is told to buy an earthen ware flask and to gather some of the elders of Jerusalem and take them with him to the Potsherd Gate overlooking the valley of Hinnom and to then tell them of Yahweh's intention to smash Jerusalem like the vessel that the prophet would soon smash before them. He was to say to the elders that the reverberations of the Almighty's destruction of His people would cause the ears tingle of all who heard of this judgment on Jerusalem. Verses 4-5 speak of the abominations of Judah which had aroused the LORD's anger and brought His retribution. Their vile behaviour was almost unspeakable. Verses 6-9 describe the detestation that was to be seen when Judah's Sovereign arose in judgment. In verse 10 the prophet was then commanded to smash the earthen flask before the rulers who represented the nation. So vast would be the carnage brought by Babylon that the valley of Hinnom would be renamed as the valley of slaughter. The horrors of the siege would cause Judah to eat their own children just as Moses had prophesied in Deuteronomy 28 verses 53-57. This happened later when Rome besieged Jerusalem in 70 AD. The carcasses of the slain would be so extensive that Tophet - the site where Judah had burned their children in the fire as reverence to Molech the idol that demanded human sacrifices. It was fitting for that detestable place to be defiled. Jeremiah is told to return from Tophet to the Temple courts and once again tell Judah that the prophesied judgments were imminent because of Judah's wrongdoings. Romans 3 turns attention to the Jewish people who were agreeing with every word Paul had uttered of the depravity among the Gentiles. They, too, were without excuse as they had the Word of God in their midst and yet were just as corrupt. From verses 9-20 Paul advances seven Scriptures supporting this. Then from verses 21-31 he proves that there is only one righteousness, and that on the basis of belief. What is required is a submission to the only way of declaring us to be right with God. This includes a confession that human beings are rightly related to death as we are incurably sinful. Additionally we confess that our Potentate only is righteous and, that He strengthened His Son to accomplish what was humanly impossible. On the basis of the acceptance of these truths and our identification with the Lord Jesus Christ in whom they have been outworked forgiveness of sins is provided.  Chapter 4 illustrates that through the lives of David and Abraham there is absolutely nothing we can do to be saved by works ie our own merits. God's condition for forgiveness involves our acceptance of this truth and confession of our failures if we are  to receive the blessings of forgiveness and become the inheritors of the promised Kingdom that will be,  as verse 13 indicated, international. What is recorded was not for the sakes of those in the recorded Scriptures, but indeed for our sakes.

Mike Smailes speaks from Mark 14 on the night of Jesus' arrest at Gethsemane

Mark 14:32-42They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.”He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,”he said to them. “Stay here and keep watch.”Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him. “Abba, Father,”he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Simon,”he said to Peter, “are you asleep? Couldn't you keep watch for one hour?Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”Once more he went away and prayed the same thing. When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. They did not know what to say to him.Returning the third time, he said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners. Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!”

Good News from God's Messenger Mark: Finding Our Life in Christ

Text us your questions!What happens to prayer after you rethink religion and spirituality? Does it feel empty, confusing, or even impossible? If so, you're not alone.In this episode, the three of us discuss our journeys from structured, wordy, and sometimes demonstrative prayer lives to something altogether different. Randy reflects on his charismatic past where intercessory prayer dominated his spiritual practice, Kyle raises philosophical questions about whether prayer "works" in a traditional sense and shares his current discomfort with it, and Elliot shares what about prayer still seems to fit—and what doesn't—through the experience of deconstruction.We wrestle with the extent to which we should think of prayer as affecting the world, God, or ourselves. We visit the thoughts of some influential thinkers on prayer. And we question the transactional and manipulative views of our old traditions while trying to remain generous with our past selves.What do we make of Jesus's promises about prayer's power alongside his own unanswered prayer in Gethsemane? What about contemplative alternatives to petitionary prayer, and are they really different from meditation? Can we name the grief that comes with losing certain prayer practices while also discovering new, more life-giving ones?Wherever you are on prayer these days, we hope this conversation offers companionship for the journey and permission to find your own path forward. Prayer may not be what it once was, and that's okay.=====Want to support us?The best way is to subscribe to our Patreon. Annual memberships are available for a 10% discount.If you'd rather make a one-time donation, you can contribute through our PayPal. Other important info: Rate & review us on Apple & Spotify Follow us on social media at @PPWBPodcast Watch & comment on YouTube Email us at pastorandphilosopher@gmail.com Cheers!

Friends of the Rosary,Today, July 25th, is the Feast of St. James, the Apostle, known as the Greater, to distinguish him from the other Apostle St. James the Lesser, who was chosen later.James was the cousin of Jesus Christ and the brother of John the Apostle. With Peter and John, James witnessed the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor. He was also in the Garden of Gethsemane during Jesus' agony.The son of Zebedee the fisherman from Galilee was called by Jesus Boanerges, "son of thunder.”He was beheaded in Jerusalem in the year 42 or 43 A.D. on the orders of King Herod Agrippa, becoming the first apostle to receive the crown of martyrdom.His relics were transported and later discovered in the ninth century in Spain. Since then, the medieval pilgrimage to St. James of Compostela, known as the Camino de Santiago ("the Way of St. James"), has attracted immense crowds across the centuries. The pilgrim paths to Compostela, in Galicia, form a network throughout Europe, dotted with hospices and chapels. St. James is the patron saint of Spain and pilgrims.Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠July 25, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Prayer in Gethsemane- Did Jesus lack faith when He prayed in the garden at Gethsemane multiple times? Some people claim that is the case if you continually pray and make a petition. What was the cup that Jesus asked God to spare Him from?

Your Nightly Prayer

Matthew 26 begins with ongoing plots from the High Priest to destroy our Lord Jesus Christ. Next, comes the anointing of Jesus' feet by Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, with the precious ointment- which became the catalyst for greedy Judas to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Following this is the record of the Lord's Supper being kept in what thereafter would be a memorial of his sacrifice by sharing bread and wine. Luke says that Jesus had prepared to eat this memorial supper with his Apostles with an intense and fervent desire: Luke 22 verses 15-16. Preparations had been made in secret so that nothing, or nobody, could thwart this vital time to steel and fortify his disciples for the trials that would soon confront them. Our Lord then prophesied of his betrayal by Peter, which in turn was a citation of the words of Zechariah 13 foretelling this.After these events came Jesus' intense personal struggle in the Garden of Gethsemane; where three times he prayed and was strengthened having subjected his own will to that of his Father's. It was here that our Lord's greatest trial and his greatest triumph occurred. In his great agony Jesus sweat as it were great drops of blood. Having completely subjected his own will to that of His Father the victory on the stake was ensured. The Apostle Paul comments on this in Hebrews 5:7-8. The temptation of our Lord Jesus was sharp and intense and real. Despite being tried to the limit Jesus was perfectly obedient. He has become the captain of our salvation and is able to succour us in our trials. Our Lord's betrayal came next. Here, one of the twelve named Judas Iscariot, led the heavily armed band of thugs sent from the temple to arrest the meekest man to have ever walked upon the earth. How tragic that Judas betrayed his Master with a kiss. There was a short ensuing resistance led courageously by Peter, who was rebuked by Jesus. The Master miraculously heals Malchus and passively surrenders himself to be led away to the High Priest's palace awaiting the sentence of death by a process that was illegal in every detail. Note the adjuration of the High Priest in verse 63 was contrary to divine law. Jesus answered citing Daniel 7 verses 13-14 in verse 64, which indicated that the High Priest was knowingly defying God and would incur coming judgment as a result. Peter's pathetic threefold denial and intense remorse close the record.

Psalm 22 which has been called by many as “The Psalmof the Cross”. There are two passages I really want to encourage you to taketime over the next few days to look at, and that's Psalm 22 and also Isaiah 53.Both of these are Messianic passages that prophecy and tell us about thesufferings of Christ. Psalm 22 was written by David 1,000 years before thecrucifixion of Christ. The Bible calls him both a king and a prophet (Acts2:30). And here he looked ahead one-thousand years and clearly saw the LordJesus Christ dying on the cross. Davidbegins the psalm with these words, "My God, My God, why have Youforsaken Me?" Jesus quoted these very words on the cross (Matthew27:46; Mark 15:34). As you read through this psalm, you find that many versesare directly related to the cross of Jesus Christ. In verses 6 through 8, Jesuson the cross experienced this: "But I am a worm and no man, a reproachof men and despised by the people. All those who see Me ridicule Me. They shootout the lip. They shake the head, saying He trusted in the Lord. Let Him rescueHim. Let Him deliver Him since He delights in Him." This is fulfilled inMatthew 27:39-44 and what we just studied in Luke 23. Psalm22:16, "They pierced My hands and My feet." This was fulfilledin Matthew 27:35 when they nailed Him to the cross and pierced both His handsand His feet. Remember later in John 20:20-27, Jesus would say to Thomas, "Touchand see the scars in My hand and My side”. John 19:23 records the fulfilmentof Psalm 22:17, "They divided My garments among them and for Myclothing they cast lots." Ibelieve Psalm 22:12-18, describes the mental and spiritual sufferings of Christduring the three hours of darkness as the devil and the demons of hellattempted to destroy Him and God turned His back on His Son. David wrote, "Manybulls have surrounded Me. The strong bulls of Bashan have encircled Me. Theygape upon Me with their mouths like a raging and a roaring lion. I'm poured outlike water. All My bones are out of joint. My heart is like wax. It is meltedwithin Me." When you understand what took place in the crucifixion,literally the bones of Christ, when they put that cross into the ground with athud and He's hanging there, it's like it put all His bones out of joint. Hisheart is poured out like wax as He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane. AndHe says in verse 16, "For dogs have surrounded Me. The congregation ofthe wicked has enclosed Me. They pierce My hands and My feet. I can count allMy bones. They look and stare at Me." Jesus was flogged before thecross. And literally His bones actually could be seen as He was hanging on thecross. In verse 18 we read: "They divided My garments among them andfor My clothing they cast lots."  Jesus hung naked on the cross in shame andsuffering. Oh,my friend, some believe that Jesus possibly quoted this entire psalm on thecross at some time when He cried out, "My God, My God, why have Youforsaken Me?" Yes, we see both the darkness of the cross and the glory ofthe cross, the sufferings of Christ and the glory that should follow. I alsoencourage you to read Hebrews 2:9-18. It begins with: "But we see Jesuswho is made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death."Psalm 22 is quoted in Hebrews 2:12.  Hebrews2:14-15 describes the purpose of Christ death and suffering: “Inasmuch thenas the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared inthe same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death,that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all theirlifetime subject to bondage.” Todaywe should be so thankful for a Savior who suffered so much for you and I thatwe could be set free from the guilt and the penalty of our sins. Please meditateon these things. Godbless!

2 Samuel 11 verses1 tells us that David had affectively abandoned his kingly duties. In this restless state David falls into sin as he beholds an attractive woman - Bathsheba - washing herself. King David commands her presence in his royal chambers. Sin came as a traveller to David as the prophet Nathan explains in chapter 12. Bathsheba was a woman married to David's faithful warrior. This adulterous liaison between David and Bathsheba resulted in her being with child. Uriah was given leave from the war against the Ammonites. David was trying to hide what he had done. The king tried to have his faithful servant visit Bathsheba, Uriah's wife, so that Uriah might believe that the child to be born would be his. Uriah refused to do this while the army of Israel was camped in difficult circumstances in the open fields. David tries having Uriah to take a large draft of alcohol in the hope that Uriah would then go to his wife. When this failed David sank to a new low by writing a letter to Joab arranging for Uriah to be slain in the battle. Uriah carried his own death warrant to his army captain Joab. David's despicable action also meant that once again the king was abandoning his moral compass and effectively transferring an immense amount of power to Joab. When Uriah's assassination was reported to David, the king said somewhat disingenuously that this happens in warfare and Joab needs to intensify his efforts to capture the city. The chapter finishes by saying that Bathsheba mourns her husband's death before David took her as his wife. The chapter shows a spiralling decline in the life of king David. His actions are compounded by adultery, deceit and murder. Despite the gravity of what David has done we will see that principally it is against Yahweh that king David has sinned. The telling words that close the chapter: "But the thing David had done displeased Yahweh" - suggests to us that serious matters will follow. Jeremiah 14 verses 1-6 provide a word picture of the great drought that the LORD had brought to Judah. We notice that when Judah came to its cisterns they were empty. The physical state of the Land mirrored their spiritual condition: Jeremiah 2 verses 13. The animals' throats were parched. All suffer when God's people sin. In verse 7 Jeremiah acknowledges the waywardness of his nation. Verses 8-9 declare that the only hope of their Sovereign's children is to repent and cast themselves on His mercy. Verse 10 expresses Judah's reluctance to rely on God. And so in verses 11-12 the prophet is commanded by his Maker to not pray for Judah. Verses 13-18 speak of the lying prophets mouthing the words Judah wants to hear. For that reason the leaders and the people deserve the judgments of Yahweh. In verses 19-22 Jeremiah asks God if He has utterly rejected the nation. The prophet personally pleads to his Omnipotent Creator to humble Judah and bring them to repentance that the LORD may once again have pity on His children. If this happens and Judah forsakes the baals then Jeremiah is confident that Judah can be restored. Matthew 26 begins with ongoing plots from the High Priest to destroy our Lord Jesus Christ. Next, comes the anointing of Jesus' feet by Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, with the precious ointment- which became the catalyst for greedy Judas to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Following this is the record of the Lord's Supper being kept in what thereafter would be a memorial of his sacrifice by sharing bread and wine. Luke says that Jesus had prepared to eat this memorial supper with his Apostles with an intense and fervent desire: Luke 22 verses 15-16. Preparations had been made in secret so that nothing, or nobody, could thwart this vital time to steel and fortify his disciples for the trials that would soon confront them. Our Lord then prophesied of his betrayal by Peter, which in turn was a citation of the words of Zechariah 13 foretelling this. After these events came Jesus' intense personal struggle in the Garden of Gethsemane; where three  times he prayed and was strengthened having subjected his own will to that of his Father's. It was here that our Lord's greatest trial and his greatest triumph occurred. In his great agony Jesus sweat as it were great drops of blood. Having completely subjected his own will to that of His Father the victory on the stake was ensured. The Apostle Paul comments on this in Hebrews 5:7-8. The temptation of our Lord Jesus was sharp and intense and real. Despite being tried to the limit Jesus was perfectly obedient. He has become the captain of our salvation and is able to succour us in our trials. Our Lord's betrayal came next. Here, one of the twelve named Judas Iscariot, led the heavily armed band of thugs sent from the temple to arrest the meekest man to have ever walked upon the earth. How tragic that Judas betrayed his Master with a kiss. There was a short ensuing resistance led courageously by Peter, who was rebuked by Jesus. The Master miraculously heals Malchus and passively surrenders himself to be led away to the High Priest's palace awaiting the sentence of death by a process that was illegal in every detail. Note the adjuration of the High Priest in verse 63 was contrary to divine law. Jesus answered citing Daniel 7 verses 13-14 in verse 64, which indicated that the High Priest was knowingly defying God and would incur coming judgment as a result. Peter's pathetic threefold denial and intense remorse close the record.

Send us a textJoy in the Trial — James 1:2-4 | Unshakeable: A Daily Christian Devotional PodcastScripture Reference: James 1:2–4 (NIV) — “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”Welcome to Unshakeable: A Daily Christian Devotional Podcast — your daily 15-minute source of biblical strength and spiritual clarity. In today's powerful episode, Reverend Ben Cooper brings encouragement and perspective for those walking through life's toughest seasons.What do you do when you're hit from every side — financially, emotionally, relationally, or spiritually? James 1:2–4 offers a radical viewpoint: consider it pure joy. Not because suffering is pleasant, but because God uses every difficulty as a tool for our spiritual maturity.Reverend Ben takes us beyond surface-level positivity into the deeper truth of how trials shape us into who God is calling us to be. Drawing parallels to Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, he reminds us that even Christ wrestled under the weight of suffering — sweating blood and asking for the cup to pass. Yet through His surrender came the greatest victory.In this devotional, you'll be guided through:Why trials are not punishments, but platforms for growthHow spiritual maturity is forged in discomfortThe role of perseverance in your Christian journeyReal hope when you're at the end of yourselfBen also leads listeners in a heartfelt moment of prayer, lifting those burdened by health struggles, financial instability, emotional trauma, and relationship breakdowns. Through Scripture and intercession, this episode becomes more than a message — it's a moment of breakthrough.This message is for the weary heart, the questioning soul, and the one who's about to give up. Don't miss this reminder: you are being refined, not ruined. God's plan through your pain is to make you complete, not lacking anything.

Pastor Matt MoranMark 14:26-50

What if God's love for you feels both deeply comforting and unbearably demanding? In this raw, unscripted spiritual dialogue, Ernie and Robby wrestle with the paradoxes of grace, obedience, and intimacy. From Africa to Gethsemane, marriage to mentorship, they explore how to move from a scarcity mindset to an abundance worldview—where God is not distant and demanding but present and empowering.This isn't a teaching. It's a showing. A revealing. A dismantling of armor.Whether you're a disciple-maker, spiritual entrepreneur, or someone learning to hear and experience God in the midst of responsibility and relational struggle—this conversation invites you to be seen, undone, and transformed.Listen if you've ever asked:Can I be fully loved and still be called to suffer?How do I help others know God without pushing them or protecting myself?What does it mean to die to self in the context of love?This episode may not answer your questions—but it just might give you permission to ask better ones.

“Behold the Man!” — John 19:5 If there be one place where our Lord Jesus most fully becomes the joy and comfort of His people, it is where He plunged deepest into the depths of woe. Come hither, gracious souls, and behold the Man in the garden of Gethsemane; behold His heart so brimming with […]

Suffering is present in our days manifesting itself in small, daily sufferings or in larger more profound experiences such as chronic illness. With the grace Christ offers us through his passion, death, and resurrection, suffering takes on a new, sanctifying meaning whereby we . This blogcast explores “The Guarantee of Suffering" from the Ad Infinitum blog, written and read by Brian Rhude.There are a few guarantees in this life. Some say it is death and taxes. Purdue basketball fans, such as myself, will add Matt Painter. But there is another guarantee in life, and it is one that is as uncomfortable and taboo as death: suffering. Death, taxes, Matt Painter, and suffering.The suffering we think of most often is typically connected to death - the suffering of a cancer patient or of someone who has been in a tragic accident. This suffering is very real, but also extraordinary. I do not mean that this suffering is somehow alien to the human experience; it is deeply real and personal to those who experience it and their loved ones, but that it is truly extra (outside of the) ordinary. Ordinary suffering comes in many forms: the lack of sleep felt by new parents, the inability to pay one's bills after being laid off, the end of a relationship that seemed to be perfect, the inexplicable change in direction from the Lord after following a path that seemed ordained by that same God. These, and countless other examples, are the suffering of the day-to-day life of the human person.There is a human tendency to compare suffering. “Well, their suffering seems so much worse than mine, so mine must be insignificant, and my response to my suffering is somehow overblown or distorted.” But this reaction is what is distorted. Suffering is, as I said at the start of this blog, guaranteed in life. That is a pretty undesirable guarantee. All we have to do is look out into the world, or just rewatch the movie of our own lives to find some sort of suffering, whether great or “small.” The question is not if we will suffer, but how we handle suffering and what it does in our lives.I am personally unable to understand how one can endure suffering without some sort of conception of God, and more specifically a personal relationship with the God who became man and who suffered and died for us. It is just that relationship that has gotten me through the traumatic death of my father just over five years ago and the daily suffering that is thrown my way. Suffering can easily make a strong person crumble, so the first thing we should do is realize that we are not strong, but weak. We are the sick that Jesus professes need a physician in the Gospel of Matthew. The physician is the only one who can prescribe the medication of grace needed to help us through our suffering. The grace is dispensed to us not through pills or syringes but through prayer. It is only through constant prayer, which is the reception of the transformative love of God, that suffering has meaning and can be endured. Sr. Ruth Burrows says in her book Essence of Prayer that God's touch in our lives, “however lightly, means I suffer,” (Burrow, 38). Prayer opens us up to the fact that we are nothing, we are weak, we are in great need and, “it is then that I really experience that I need Jesus and everything depends on my living this out, letting go of the controls, handing them over to him and accepting to have no holiness, no achievement of my own, to be before God as nothing,” (ibid, 39).This is the bottom line of suffering. It is not gratuitous, meaningless, or completely nonsensical; it is the process of being stripped of all of our egotistical and self-seeking tendencies that leave us closed off to God's healing touch. Patient endurance of the suffering we experience is the way that we are prepared for life with God. How do we know this? Because Jesus Christ took on human form and lived in perfect obedience as the Apostle to the Eternal Father. Jesus' life found its highest fulfillment in obedient suffering and sacrifice in the Garden of Gethsemane, at the Pillar, on the road to Calvary, and on the Cross. In his suffering, Christ took on all of ours - from the suffering of a broken heart to the suffering of death - and brought them meaning. In fact, it was the signs of his suffering that he kept after his resurrection as trophies of his victory over death. It was these same signs of suffering, Jesus' wounds, that proved the resurrection to Thomas.Our wounds, our suffering, participate in the suffering and wounds of Christ. Thomas experienced the Risen Christ in His wounds, and we too experience Him in our wounds. Suffering is a guarantee, but it does not end as pain- it leads us to victory, to intimacy with God, and brings us to God as empty vessels for him to fill with his glory. Author:Brian Rhude is the Project Coordinator for the Catholic Apostolate Center where he works in developing Center programming, assists in updating and creating new resources on the Center's website, collaborates on the development of social media content, and provides other services and collaborates including participation at and facilitation of various events and conferences.   Resources:Listen to On Mission: Talking to Children About SufferingBrowse Self Care ResourcesRead the Ad Infinitum blog Follow us:The Catholic Apostolate CenterThe Center's podcast websiteInstagramFacebookApple PodcastsSpotify Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C. also appears on the podcast, On Mission, which is produced by the Catholic Apostolate Center and you can also listen to his weekly Sunday Gospel reflections. 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A Litany in Honor of the Precious Blood pays tribute to our Lord in His lifeblood that He shed so that we might have Eternal Life with Him in Heaven! The transcription for this Podcast can be found at https://www.ourcatholicprayers.com/Litany-In-Honor-of-the-Precious-Blood.html

In Today's Uncertainty, We Need to Remember that God Wants to Walk with Us In All Our Life Situations, Both Good and Bad – Just Ask Him MESSAGE SUMMARY: “Lord is my helper and confident, why should I be afraid? What can man do to me?” For this confidence, you must know who Jesus is – both in your heart and in your mind. Jesus is the Son of God – God in the flesh. As Paul tells us in Philippians 4:4: “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.". Therefore, You do not need to worry about troubling circumstances in your life because you know that He is with you; and He will guide you no matter how dark your life seems. Jesus is the light that shines in darkness.  As Jesus tells you in Luke 12:4-5, that when you have anxiety and fear in your life, you must determine if this anxiety derivative of the right kind of fear: “I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him!”. When you are faced with life's tragedies and the anxieties that result from just living your life, Jesus can turn those situations and your fears into ways and results that you cannot fathom, understand, or anticipate; but you can certainly appreciate. Why not give God a chance to walk with you in all your life situations -- good and bad? Ultimately, the Psalmist got it right in Psalm 23:4: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.".   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus' name, amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because I am in Jesus Christ, I will seek God's perspective on my situation. For I know that in all things God works together for good to those of us who love Him and are called according to His purpose. From Romans 8:28 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Philippians 4:4-9; Mathew 6:25-34; Psalm 23:1-6; Psalms 22b:17-31 A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Prayer for America ” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Mark 14:32-4332 They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” 33 He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. 34 “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” he said to them. “Stay here and keep watch.”35 Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hourmight pass from him. 36 “Abba,[a] Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”37 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Simon,” he said to Peter, “are you asleep? Couldn't you keep watch for one hour? 38 Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”39 Once more he went away and prayed the same thing. 40 When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. They did not know what to say to him.41 Returning the third time, he said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners. 42 Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!”43 Just as he was speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, appeared. With him was a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders.

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In today's message, Pastor Cucuzza covers the events leading up to the crucifixion of Christ. In this, we find the Agony of Gethsemane.

In this powerful kickoff to our new series, we dive into one of Christianity's most misunderstood foundations: the blood of Jesus. Why is it central to our faith? What does it really mean when we sing about the blood? Starting in Genesis and ending in Gethsemane, we explore the weight of sin, the necessity of justice, and the unmatched love of God that chose to redeem us—not because we're awesome, but because He is.Whether you've been in church your whole life or you're just curious, this message will challenge how you view sin, sacrifice, and the Savior.

In this episode of the Innovative Church Leaders podcast, ⁠⁠Dr. Eric Bryant⁠⁠ interviews medical doctor and apologist ⁠⁠⁠Dr. Raphael Samuel of Apologetics Canada. Raphael discusses the historical and medical evidence supporting the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the archaeological findings that corroborate the Gospel accounts, and the implications of the human body's complexity as evidence of God's existence. 5 Key Takeaways:1. Historical records support the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus which is central to Christianity's truth claims.2. Medical evidence aligns with Gospel accounts of Jesus' suffering.3. The complexity of the human brain points to a Creator.4. Atheism struggles to explain free will and consciousness.5. The human body reflects God's handiwork. Follow Us:Stay connected and never miss an episode!• YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@EricBryant777 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-post-christian-podcast/id1509588357⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ •Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6ZeQIrzr2tCMyq1VdwxGNn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Facebook: / ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠catalyzingcommunity ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • TikTok: / ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ericbryant777 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • LinkedIn: / ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠eric-bryant-397003172 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe & Share:If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow leaders and friends! Let's continue helping church leaders reach people and make disciples in our increasingly post-Christian world.Key Moments with Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction & Guest BackgroundMeet Dr. Raphael Samuel: medical doctor, apologist, and voice for historical Christianity.02:25 – The Medical Reality of CrucifixionWhat ancient history and modern medicine reveal about Roman crucifixion and Jesus' death.08:55 – Did Jesus Really Sweat Blood?A rare medical condition in Gethsemane supports Luke's Gospel account.18:50 – Eyewitness Detail: Blood and WaterHow John's Gospel describes a medically accurate account of Jesus' death.19:45 – The Human Body Points to GodHow DNA, consciousness, and biology give evidence for a Creator.Head over to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.ericbryant.org⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠for additional resources and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes.#InnovativeChurchLeaders #innovation #KingdomofGod #EricBryant #ChurchLeadership #outreach #Discipleship #Evangelism #ChurchHealth #Pastors #creativity #jesus #christianity #faith #faithinaction #renewal #PostChristianPodcast #DrRaphaelSamuel #medicaldoctor #apologetics #apologeticscanada #proofofGod #EvidenceofGod #ProofofDesigner #DNA #Crucifixion #Resurrection

Message Summary (by OpenAI) Title: “Lord, Teach Us to Pray – Part Two: Kingdom, Power, and Glory Forever” Speaker: Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min. Main Text: Luke 11:1 | Matthew 6:9–13 Introduction Dr. Bryan Hudson continues his teaching series based on the Disciples' request to Jesus in Luke 11:1, “Lord, teach us to pray.” The message narrows in on the concluding phrase of what is commonly known as the Lord's Prayer: “For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.” (Matthew 6:13) Rather than a line to recite, this statement is a declaration of divine ownership, authority, and purpose. Dr. Hudson emphasizes that believers are called not only to pray this truth, but to live in it, sustain it, and ultimately become kingdom. I. Immersed in the Kingdom of God Not just experiencing the Kingdom — Believers are called to become Kingdom. Like language immersion makes one fluent, immersion in God's ways makes believers fluent in the Kingdom. Jesus taught us to prioritize God's reign: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”(Matthew 6:33) Key Statement: “If you seek the Kingdom, things will find you. You don't have to chase after blessings.” II. How to Sustain God's Kingdom, Power, and Glory in Your Life Dr. Hudson identifies four foundational principles that sustain a life infused with God's presence and purpose: 1. Faith in God Trusting God's character and promises. Root of spiritual stability and resilience. 2. Prayer Ongoing, intentional communication with God. Modeled by Jesus and commanded to His disciples. 3. Quality Decisions Definition: A decision made with clarity, alignment to God's Word, with no retreat. Quality decisions reflect maturity and purpose. They allow believers to move forward without being hindered by past mistakes. Examples of Quality Decisions: Moses choosing to suffer with God's people (Hebrews 11). Ruth choosing loyalty to Naomi, leading to her place in Jesus' lineage. Jesus choosing God's will over His own in Gethsemane. Examples of Poor Decisions: Esau trading his birthright for temporary satisfaction. Saul disobeying God and offering unauthorized sacrifices. Judas betraying Jesus. 4. Agreement The power of walking in unity with others in purpose and direction. Dr. Hudson explains Amos 3:3 as “agreement to walk together,” not “agreement on everything.” True agreement requires shared purpose and relational unity, not identical opinions. III. The Power of Agreement A. Biblical Agreement Matthew 18:19–20: Jesus promises to be present where two or three are gathered in His name. Agreement brings authority: binding and loosing — declaring what is proper or improper according to God's will. Agreement leads to divine presence and intervention. B. Misused Agreement: Tower of Babel (Genesis 11) The people were united, speaking one language, and agreed to build a tower to glorify themselves. God intervened by confusing their language, breaking their agreement, because: They were united in self-exaltation. The principle of agreement was valid, but the purpose was wrong. Key Insight: “Right principle, wrong people, wrong purpose.” IV. Biblical Unity and Corporate Purpose A. 1 Corinthians 3:9 “For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, you are God's building.” Without agreement in purpose and practice, there is no fruitful ministry. The church must function in unity, not uniformity. B. Psalm 133 Unity is compared to oil flowing from the head of Aaron — symbolizing divine blessing and anointing. Unity is the place of commanded blessing. V. Application to Life and Ministry A. In Marriage and Relationships Agreement doesn't require total sameness, but commitment to shared purpose. Dr. Hudson uses humorous examples from his marriage to illustrate mutual compromise and unity. B. In Church Life God's power is available, but we must come into agreement and unity to access it. No agreement = No blessing. The power and glory of God are not “awaited” — they are present and available when we are aligned with His kingdom. VI. Confession of Faith, Unity, and Purpose The sermon concluded with a corporate confession, reinforcing the message's themes. Believers affirmed that they: Walk in purpose Live in divine power Make quality decisions Serve with unity Are becoming “kingdom” through immersion in God's ways Are fellow workers, fields, and buildings of God “Forever starts today.” Agreement with God and one another allows believers to experience His kingdom, power, and glory in their lives now, not only in eternity. Final Charge and Prayer Summit Invitation Pastor Hudson invited the church to a corporate prayer summit, underscoring the importance of gathering in agreementas a church body. He exhorted believers to show up physically, not just spiritually, emphasizing that God is waiting on us, not the other way around.

Without a doubt, the two most consequential things that happened to all mankind happened in the Garden of Eden and the Garden of Gethsemane. In the Garden of Eden, Adam gave in to temptation and those things still tempt us. But Jesus, in His eventful garden moment said, “Not my will but Yours,” and in that moment He empowered us to overcome our human frailty! Justin drew a stark contrast between the two gardens, and Jesus's example of how to overcome the specific temptations of: 1) ambition versus godly discontent, 2) maintaining personal comfort versus multiplying, 3) hiding from blame versus taking ownership of the situation, and 4) lifting self up versus lifting God up! What Jesus did to overcome for us, His determination inspired love, is calling us to lay down our lives for Him!!

Many Focus on Earning Money and Living a Financially Driven Life Which Lets Money Become Their “god” MESSAGE SUMMARY: We are so focused on earning money and other financially driven life activities so that it is easy for money and finances to become our god. Making finances “our god” violates the Second Commandment. Jesus is Lord over all Creation, as we are told in Psalms 24:1: “The earth is the LORD's and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein. For He has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers.”. Therefore, everything that has been entrusted to you is God's. In James 5:1-3, the author of the Book of James provides insight into someone who does NOT make God the Lord of their finances: “Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days.”. Therefore, let God Be Lord over your finances, which are, in reality, God's finances.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus' name, amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, I will trust in the Lord with all my heart. I will trust in the Lord with all of my heart and lean not on my own understanding.  In all my ways I will seek to know Him, and He will make my pathways straight.   From Proverbs 3:5f SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Psalms 24:1-10; James 5:1-6; Psalms 25:1-22; Psalms 45:1-17. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Stand in the Gap” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

“I look in the mirror and don't even recognize myself.”“How did I become this version of me?”“Is my marriage dead… or just dormant?”When a relationship breaks down—or you find yourself in a season of emotional numbness—it's easy to blame the other person, the marriage, or even life itself. But this episode invites a deeper question: Who have you become… and who are you meant to be?In this powerful and grounding conversation, we unpack:How stress, fear, and emotional survival mode (fight, flight, freeze, or fawn) distort our true identityWhat it means to enter Season Four—a sacred time of dormancy, reflection, and personal rebirthWhy spiritual growth can't happen while you're pretending everything's fineHow to place your struggling relationship “on the altar” while becoming your best selfWhat Christ's example of being “unshaken” in Gethsemane teaches us about identity in hard seasonsThis episode isn't about fixing your marriage overnight—it's about becoming someone who can walk back into a relationship with clarity, strength, and peace.Want to read more about this topic? ⁠⁠https://www.lifechangingservices.org/the-battle-of-perspectives-laman-nephi-and-the-power-of-faith/Rather Watch Something? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybqzJ039vw4&t=5s⁠Check out Life Changing Services: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.lifechangingservices.org/

Welcome back to season eleven with Aramaic Word of the day: "Laahana" which means My Vacation or my Rest i pray you are enjoying these short in depth aramaic words that shaped first century mindset of the early followers of Yeshua and deepen our understanding for Today by learning the aramaic language  The Western word “vacation” comes from Latin vacare “to be empty, free.” In the Western world, vacation often means:"Stopping work so I can rest, escape, or entertain myself." In Aramaic, we don't say “vacation.” That's a modern word, born from the idea of escaping work, escaping responsibility, escaping noise. But in our tongue, the word is (Laahna). It means rest, yes but not the way the West imagines it. Laahna is soul-rest. It's not absence of work. It's the presence of stillness. Not a schedule-free week, but a heart returned to rhythm. You see, Westerners plan their “vacations” like military operations: flights, hotels, bucket lists. They miss what our ancestors knew: real rest begins inside. Laahna is what Yeshua did on the seventh day not because He was tired, but because He was satisfied. But in the Eastern (Semitic) mindset, the concept of “vacation” is not absence of duty, but presence of restoration, purpose, and inner stillness. As a guide from the Judean hills and the alleyways of Jerusalem, I've walked with many pilgrims well, they call themselves “tourists.” They come with cameras and checklists, ready to “see the Holy Land,” but often miss something far holier: rest. I've watched travelers rush through the Garden of Gethsemane, take a photo, and say, “Done!” But did they ever sit under the olive trees and breathe? Did they let the silence speak? That silence is Lahna. It's what Elijah found on Mount Horeb not in the wind or the earthquake, but in the still, small voice. Laahna is restoration, not recreation. It's when your insides are aligned again. That's why Yeshua said, “Come to me, all who are weary and I will give you rest. Not a sabbatical from your job. A homecoming to your purpose. This is not simply about physical exhaustion it's about being weary in your being, tired from the weight of life, expectations, and performance. Yeshua wasn't offering a Mediterranean cruise. Yeshua was offering Laahna a rest that reorders the soul and returns you to the rhythm of Eden. I live in Texas now, in a small space with no office but back home in Jerusalem, even our stones breathe history. Even our desert has rhythm. I take the train sometimes just to write, to slow my soul down, to remember that Laahna is not about location. It's about intention. So next time you think of coming to Israel not for a vacation, but for something deeper remember Laahna. Come not just to see the land, but to let the land see you. Come not just to hear the stories, but to let your story be rewritten by sacred stillness. Because the Holy Land doesn't just want your footsteps. It wants your quiet. It wants your confession. It wants your transformation. Think of it as a Laahna moment. A pause not of emptiness, but of presence  where the land  doesn't just receive you, but recognizes you. You don't come here merely to see ruins or landscapes. You come to be seen by olive trees that have outlived empires, by waters that have heard the whispers of prophets, by hills that still hold the echo of Yeshua's footsteps. In the West, we “go on vacation” to escape. But in the East, we withdraw to return. To withdraw, like Elijah to the cave. Like Yeshua to the wilderness. Like monks to the Judean cliffs where the silence isn't empty, it's full of God. So come not to walk where Jesus walked but to walk with Him again, in your own inner desert. Let the stories of Scripture stop being museum pieces and start becoming mirrors  where your soul sees what it forgot. Finally my prayers to you let Laahna not vacation be your guide. Not rest from work, but return and rest Laahna to what you were made. The Land is waiting for you in 2026, and i pray i will be your guide. you can check my Signature tour by going to my website twinsbiblicalacademy.com see you soon!   

Todaywe are moving on to a new chapter, Luke 23. This chapter tells us about thetrial of Jesus and His crucifixion and death on the cross. We believe this isone of the great chapters of the Bible, along with the other Gospel accounts ofJesus giving His life on the cross for you and me. This is the climax of humanhistory where God Himself literally goes to a cross and pays the payment forour sins. Several things stand out as we look at this chapter.  Tounderstand the setting, let's remember Jesus has been up all night long. OnThursday, Jesus prepared for the Passover meal with the disciples. Thatevening, they observed and ate the Passover meal in the Upper Room. In John 13through John 17, Jesus is talking to His disciples, preparing them with somelast words, giving them the comfort of the Holy Spirit who will come after Hehas ascended to heaven. So many things are taking place. Judas goes out intothe night to get the temple guard to arrest Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Thenafter Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, they sing a hymn.  Jesusgoes deeper into the Garden, and there He prays those three prayers: "NotMy will but Thine be done." He says, "Take this cup from Me."That cup, we believe, represented the sins of all humanity, and Jesus wouldbecome sin for us. In the middle of the night, Judas shows up at the gardenwith a guard from the temple and arrests Jesus. They take Him to Annas's house,then to Caiaphas's house, and finally, as the sun rises and Peter has deniedthe Lord three times, they take Jesus to the Sanhedrin, where He is triedunfairly for the third time by the Jews.  Nowhere in Luke 23, we read that in the early morning hours, after the Sanhedrincondemns Him, they take Him to Pilate. We know that Jesus was crucified at thethird hour, which would have been 9:00 in the morning. At the sixth hour of Hiscrucifixion, three hours into the cross, the sun refused to shine. It wentdark. For the next three hours, until 3:00 in the afternoon, the sun did notshine. We're convinced that during those hours, Jesus paid the full payment forour sins. Over all six hours, Jesus is paying the price on the cross. We'lltalk about the seven sayings of Christ later, but here we see Jesus paying thefull price for our sin, being the propitiation for them, satisfying the wrathof God against the sins of humanity.  Jesusfulfilled the law as the innocent Lamb of God and fully paid for our sins,declaring in His last words on the cross, "It is finished." All thisbegins at 9:00 in the morning when Jesus is crucified. What we read now in Lukechapter 23, as He goes before Pilate for three different trials, happenssomewhere between the early morning hours of the Sanhedrin trying Him and Hiscrucifixion at 9am.  Canyou imagine how physically, emotionally, and mentally worn-out Jesus must havebeen during this time?  Oh,what a Savior! When we study this chapter, we will see both the evilness of menand the goodness of God. I can't help but think about that tree in the Gardenof Eden, called the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, which God forbadeAdam and Eve to eat from. When they ate of it, they brought sin into the world.Now we are reminded of that tree again because Jesus will die and be hung on atree—a tree that represents the knowledge of good and evil.  Therewe see the great love of God, the goodness of God, the mercy of God, thewonderful sacrifice of God at that cross. At the same time, we see evil mencrucifying the most innocent, precious, sinless, blameless, stainless Son ofGod on that cross. Oh, what a scene. As we look at Luke chapter 23, I trustyou'll read it through several times and take into your heart all that Jesusdid for you and me. God bless!

Meeting Summary: Dealing with Tangled EmotionsOpening & PreparationThe session began with a call for openness—inviting participants to preparetheir hearts and minds for spiritual reflection and teaching.Emphasis was placed on the need to listen beyond words, to be receptive tothe Holy Spirit's guidance during the talk.Main Topic: Emotions and Spiritual LifeKey Points:Role of Emotions: Participants were encouraged to consider areas of theirlives where emotions may have too much influence and where those emotionsneed to "take a back seat."Prayer for Emotional Guidance: There was a collective prayer asking for helpin keeping emotions such as hurt, offense, worry, anxiousness, fear, regret,shame, and pride in check.Walking by the Spirit: Discussion on the Biblical principle of "walking by theSpirit" instead of gratifying fleshly desires. Practical advice was given: pausingduring the day for 30 seconds to reflect on whether one is being led by theflesh or the Spirit.Craving for Awe: Highlighted that humans are driven by a need for awe andwonder, and that pausing to appreciate creation can fulfill this need in ahealthy, God-centered way rather than through emotional counterfeits orexcessive focus on feelings.Questions Raised:What area of your life do your emotions need to take a back seat more oftenthan they do?How often do we include the Holy Spirit in our daily walk versus following ourown desires?Cultural & Scriptural Reflections on FeelingsSociety often encourages "following your feelings," but this was critiqued aspotentially dangerous—following feelings can lead to negative outcomes if notchecked.Scriptural examples were used (e.g., Paul's teaching, Jesus' experiences) toillustrate that while emotions are real and valid, they must not control us.Noted that even Jesus experienced deep feelings (e.g., sorrow to the point ofdeath in the Garden of Gethsemane) but did not let those feelings dictate hisactions.Practical Examples & TestimoniesPersonal Story: The speaker shared a deeply personal account involving hisson's trauma and the emotional turmoil that ensued, illustrating the complexityand intensity of real-life emotions.Grief and Loss: Recent experiences with the death of a loved one (brother-in-law) were shared, reinforcing how life brings unexpected, tangled feelings.Congregational Participation: Listeners were asked to acknowledge theirown emotional struggles and prepare to lay them down during communion.Communion as a Step of FaithThe service was to conclude with communion, symbolizing both Christ'ssacrifice and the act of surrendering tangled or overwhelming feelings to God.Encouragement was given to receive communion in faith, believing for healingof broken bodies and emotions, and to let go of grief, offense, pride, orunforgiveness.Suggestion to partake in communion alongside someone else for support,particularly for youth or those needing accountability.Emotional Coping StrategiesFour F's of Response: Fight, flight, freeze, or fawn—common ways peoplereact to emotional pain or stress. Participants were encouraged to reflect ontheir default responses and to consider facing feelings as Jesus did: withhonesty and reliance on God.Acknowledging Pride: Special attention was given to the issue of pride as asubtle and dangerous emotion that must be surrendered.Decisions & Action PlansLay Down Emotions: As a symbolic act during communion, participants wereinvited to consciously give their tangled or destructive emotions to God.Seek Support: Encouraged to do this with a friend, spouse, or peer forincreased openness and healing.Ongoing Reflection: Advised to continue daily practices of pausing,reflecting, and inviting the Holy Spirit's guidance regarding emotions.ClosingThe meeting closed with a prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to comfort, guide,convict, and heal participants in their emotional lives.Summary TableTopicKey Points Openness & PreparationBe receptive, prepare heart and mind,invite Holy Spirit. Emotions & Spiritual WalkIdentify areas where emotionsdominate; walk by the Spirit, not by flesh. Scriptural ReflectionJesus' example inGethsemane; scriptural guidance on emotions. Personal TestimoniesReal-lifestories of trauma, grief, and emotional struggle. Communion & SurrenderAct offaith to lay down emotions at the cross during communion. CopingStrategiesRecognize fight/flight/freeze/fawn; pride as a hidden danger;importance of facing emotions with God's help. Action PlansSurrender emotions,seek support, daily reflection, openness to Holy Spirit.Questions for Further Reflection:What emotions currently have too much control in your life?Are you willing to lay them down and seek healing?How can you make space for the Holy Spirit's guidance in your daily emotionalresponses? Welcome to Sunday Service Wish you were here! Newsong, Colorado Springs (starts at 10:00am) Subscribe to text updates. Text the words text alert to 94000 Subscribe to emails (bottom of page on newsongcs.com) Listen to podcasts. Keywords newsong foursquare Watch services on Youtube. Keyword newsongcs Follow us on Facebook, Instagram & TikTok keyword newsongcs 3 ways to give to Missions, Disaster Relief, Tithes, or Offerings 1.. newsongcs/com/give 2. Text Giving - text the word EASY to 94000 3. Mail - P.O. Box 75818 • C.S., CO 80970

Send us a textThis show reflects on what it means to see the future too clearly and the cost of carrying that vision alone.A few weeks ago, America burned on the monitor behind me. Cameras rolled in Santa Monica. Steve Drobny, founder of Clocktower Group, advisor in global hedge funds, told me to sit straight, but I didn't care. We discussed the future and America's possibly undead economy.The previous night, a girl at a Venice Beach bar asked where I'm from. “The future,” I replied. She was 30, blond, beautiful blue eyes, an image I haven't shaken off. When you return from the future, you're never whole. Details are too sharp, too strange. People blink. They don't want to hear it. That's why I wear goggles. That's why they call me unhinged.Knowing what's next doesn't give control. It gives doubt. It exiles you from Main Street.I vibed on John Buchan's The Gap in the Curtain. A country house, a strange German professor, a handful of guests glimpsing a year ahead. One sees a financial headline. Distant words that unravel everything. Once you've seen what's coming, you carry it like a tumor made of light.I drew a line from that story to Saint Peter in Gethsemane. His denial wasn't betrayal; it was fear dressed as certainty. The same fear I see in markets, politics, people I've loved. We say "impossible" when scared. But the future doesn't knock. It slides in through the back door. Think of me as The Back Door Man.That's the curse, not that no one believes you, but that eventually, you stop believing yourself.Our conversation shifted between memories: Blanc Bleu, my house in St. Barts, Bitcoin, bond markets, old debates with giants like Niall Ferguson. Moments I stood and said what no one wanted to hear.Being early feels like being wrong until the chart catches up.The Curse of Knowing isn't about money, it's about myth. Trading safety for clarity. Leaving comfort to speak truths no one's ready for. It's about friends reunited, because ultimately, the only constants are those you love(d).HughSupport the show⬇️ Subscribe on Patreon or Substack for full episodes ⬇️https://www.patreon.com/HughHendryhttps://hughhendry.substack.comhttps://www.instagram.com/hughhendryofficialhttps://blancbleustbarts.comhttps://www.instagram.com/blancbleuofficial⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Leave a five star review and comment on Apple Podcasts!

Send us a textBrotherhood is a divine antidote to the isolation systems working to pull men apart in today's world. We explore how the cultural demand for men to display constant strength prevents them from acknowledging weakness and seeking connection.• Christ himself demonstrated human vulnerability in the Garden of Gethsemane, showing that weakness is not a failure of manhood but part of humanity• Modern systems force men to divide limited time between God, family, work, and self, often leaving no room for brotherhood• Men often don't respond to outreach from brothers because they haven't accepted their own weakness• The paradox that a woman can make mistakes and still be a woman, but society tells men they're "not men" if they show weakness• Aging naturally reveals our physical limitations, creating opportunity for inner strength to grow• Intentional brotherhood requires fighting against isolation through regular connection, not just annual events• When men unite with singular purpose, they create powerful protection and strength for themselves and others• Responding to brothers' texts and calls works both ways—don't just reach out when you need somethingRemember that Jesus Christ is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and through Him, we can embrace both our humanity and our strength. Support the showSocial Media/Follow Us: Website:https://www.calledbygodpodcast.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/cbg.podcast/Twitter: https://twitter.com/CalledbyGodPodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@calledbygodpodcast

Have you ever wondered what it truly means to be faithful in a world that celebrates instant success and viral moments? Through this exploration of faithfulness, you will learn how steady devotion and quiet strength can transform your life and relationships. Expect to be inspired by biblical examples, like Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, and discover how God's unwavering faithfulness empowers you to remain steadfast in your own journey. Embrace the call to be present, to show up, and to make a lasting difference, even when it's challenging.Passages in this message: Galatians 5:22-23 Matthew 25:21 Deuteronomy 7:9 Luke 22:42, 44 Romans 5:8 Subscribe to stay updated with the latest content from The Story!TAKE YOUR NEXT STEP HERE:Thestorygr.com/connectJOIN US IN PERSON:The Story Church475 6 Mile Road NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321You can support the ministry happening at The Story at thestorygr.com/give#thestorychurch #comstockparkmi

In Week 6 of our series on the life of David, Pastor Jason unpacks a moment we all face: unanswered prayers and divine denial. David had a great idea—to build a house for God—but even after doing everything “right,” God said no.Why does God sometimes shut doors that seem good, godly, and full of potential? This message explores three powerful reasons:God is protecting you.God is reminding you who's in charge.God is setting you up for a greater yes.If you've ever been frustrated, discouraged, or confused by God's “no,” this sermon will give you hope, clarity, and faith to trust His plan. Even Jesus received a "no" in Gethsemane, so you're in good company.

What happens when praise music doesn't fix your depression? In this deeply compassionate episode of "You, Me, and Jesus," Keenya shares her own journey through depression and how she experienced God's presence even when she couldn't "feel" Him. Discover how to find hope during difficult seasons without resorting to toxic positivity. Keenya vulnerably shares her season of darkness and the surprising spiritual gifts that emerged through depression rather than despite it. Learn how to hold onto faith when emotions and circumstances seem to contradict God's goodness. In our "What Would Jesus Actually Do?" segment, we explore how Jesus might respond to someone experiencing depression while in ministry—sitting with them in their pain (like He did in Gethsemane) rather than questioning their spiritual maturity. Whether you're currently walking through the dark valley of depression, supporting someone who is, or have emerged from a season of darkness with questions about where God was, this episode offers authentic hope without minimizing the real struggle. If you felt empowered by this episode, take a screenshot for your stories and tag Keenya on Instagram @keenyakelly. I would be honored to hear your takeaways and re-post your share! Important Links from the show: Understanding your spiritual gifts is definitely one of the foundational things that every single Christian needs to know. If you'd like a quick and free spiritual quiz assessment to understand why and how God gifted you what you have in life click here https://keenyakelly.com/ministry/! Subscribe to our new YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@youmeandjesus Connect with Keenya on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keenyakelly/ Connect with Keenya on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@keenyakelly Connect with Keenya on Twitter: https://twitter.com/keenyakelly For more information on courses and resources: https://keenyakelly.com/ Are you building a business and you want to know what God is saying to you about your business? Looking for strategy on what to do next with your business or market your business in a way that's Christ focused? Click the following link to book a creative consulting session to get a strategy together for your business that is faith focused: https://keenyakelly.com/creativeconsulting/

Psalm 91,He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.2 I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”3 For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence.4 He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.5 You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day,6 nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday.7 A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.8 You will only look with your eyes and see the recompense of the wicked.9 Because you have made the Lord your dwelling place — the Most High, who is my refuge —10 no evil shall be allowed to befall you, no plague come near your tent.11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.12 On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.13 You will tread on the lion and the adder; the young lion and the serpent you will trample underfoot.14 “Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name.15 When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him.16 With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” Why does Psalm 91 exist?One reason is because threats to human life exist. Whether wars or wildfires; earthquakes or illnesses; hurricanes or heart attacks — threats to human life, hazards to human flourishing — they exist. And they're plenty in number, many in form, and perennially active. And have been since Genesis three, and humanity's exit from Eden.And so the question then becomes, how do you live, as a human, in a world, that's loaded with threats to human life? How do you live as a human who's: Not covered in steel-plating, but flesh. Not taller than the mountains, but shorter than the ceilings. Not immune to disease, but prone to it. Not beyond disaster, but within range of it. Not personally immortal, nor having loved ones who are immortal, but living as a mom, or dad, or sister, or brother, or friend, who's not even been promised tomorrow, let alone this afternoon?How do you live, as a human, in a world, that's loaded with threats to human life? You could lock your doors, and try to avoid reality. You could close your eyes and try to ignore reality. Or, you could face reality from a place of refuge. Why does Psalm 91 exist? Yes, because threats to life are real, and because refuge is available. And as we're going to see in Psalm 91, this refuge is in a God who is powerful, personal, faithful, and just.Let's pray and ask God for his help before going further.So, Psalm 91, a Psalm for finding refuge in God who is powerful, personal, faithful, and just. Let's begin with that first one — powerful. God, your refuge, is powerful.PowerfulLook with me at verse one. Psalm 91:1, where God is referred to twice, and by to two different titles:“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.”Most High and Almighty — two terms communicating complete superiority over all things.He is not just high, but Most High. Meaning that no human ruler nor so-called god ever rises above him. When God looks up, he sees no thing and acknowledges no one. He is Most High.And he is the Almighty. Having all power and all authority throughout all the universe. Reality is entirely contingent upon him, and never the other way around.God, your refuge, is powerful, brothers and sisters. His titles in Psalm 91 assert this, as does his activity. See with me down in verse 11. Psalm 91, verse 11, where it says of God:“For he will command his angels…” Now, admittedly, that may not strike you right away as a verse that communicates God's power. And the reason for that is because in our modern minds, we tend to think of angels as being small, harmless, and kinda like children in form. And so for God to command them in verse 11, well, it doesn't strike us as being all that impressive.But when it comes to how the Bible actually talks about angels, almost nothing could be further from the truth. Friends, angels in the Bible are fearful beings. Just ask Zechariah in the Temple (Luke 1:12), or the shepherds in the field (Luke 2:9), or Daniel in Babylon (Daniel 8:17), or Cornelius in Caesarea (Acts 10:4) — when angels show up, people run for cover. When angels show up, people collapse in fright — cowering before the colossal power of these magnificent ones.But not God. No, as God sits on his throne in heaven ever surrounded by a vast army of these mighty ones — God unhesitatingly commands each and every one of them, and they obey him. They bow down to him. They recognize the immeasurable gap between their relative greatness and his, and act accordingly. God command his angels.Do you believe God is powerful? Do you believe he has total authority? You may fear political tension. You may fear economic turmoil. You may fear disease and disorders. You may fear vandalism and robbery. And as you fear those things, the size of each one might only ever seem to grow larger and larger in your mind. Consider God. Consider the almighty. Consider the commander of angels. Consider the one in whose hands the hearts of kings are like streams of water.Cities Church, looking out upon a world that's loaded with threats: find your refuge in one who is powerful — the Most High, Almighty, and commander-of-angels powerful. God, your refuge, is powerful. And, he is personal as well.PersonalLook again with me at verse one, and consider for a moment just how fantastic of a thing it is that God being the supreme authority that he is nevertheless calls his people near to him. The Maker of the universe beckons his 5-foot-tall, highly vulnerable, injury-prone people, “Come close to me.”See it with me, verse one:“He who dwells, in the shelter, of the Most High…”He who dwells in — not he who lingers nearby, or remains just outside, but dwells in — the shelter of the Most High.Now, make no mistake, this is personal proximity to God. Personal proximity to the one who speaks worlds into being. Yes, there is language here in this psalm of shelter and refuge and fortress, but don't for a moment think that connotes anything like a building. For the shelter of the Most High, at least in Psalm 91, is not a building; it's God himself.See it with me in the second part of verse one. For it is not within a bunch of high walls that we are to dwell. Nor behind a set of heavy gates that we are to abide. No, but it's “…in the shadow of the Almighty.” See, he is the covering. His shadow is the shelter.And that's why, in verse two, the psalmist says not that God has a refuge, but that God is “My refuge and my fortress.” And even further, down in verse 9:“Because you have made the Lord your dwelling place...”Not the Lord's house, but “the Lord” himself. Psalm 91 is saying God's proximity is our security. So, God is personal. We see an even more intimate picture of this in verses 3-4 where, amazingly, the psalmist has us looking upon our situation from the perspective of a helpless baby bird. Look at it with me, verses 3-4:“For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler [a fowler is a person who hunts or traps birds] and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his pinions [feathers], and under his wings you will find refuge;”So, baby-bird-in-a-nest-type imagery is what we've got here.Now, it just so happens that a few weeks back, I actually got a real life look at this. The kids and I had, yet again, gone over to the neighbor's yard to get a look at his pet frogs. We we're standing over in his yard when all of a sudden, I began to hear this kind of high-pitched chirping coming from the bush behind me.So I turned and looked into the bush, and sure enough saw deep within the branches, one single thinly framed, lightly feathered, baby cardinal, sitting in its nest. I was not intimidated by this bird. It appeared to me as neither strong nor ferocious. In fact, just one look at this tiny bird, and I think you'd agree with me that this thing stood no chance against the many other predators lurking all around it. No chance.This is where the psalmist brings us in verses 3-4. This is where he frames up our situation, saying, you are the baby bird in this picture. You, in and of yourself, are totally vulnerable to all that is around you. You're totally vulnerable to:Verse 3, the snare of the fowler and deadly pestilence.Verse 5, the terrors of the night, and arrows by day.Verse 6, pestilence that stalks in darkness and destruction that wastes at noonday.In and of yourself, you are totally vulnerable to it all, and yet, you need not fear. In fact, verse 5, you will not fear. And we think, why wouldn't I fear? Why would I not be afraid? Why should I not go running for cover?Answer: Because of the wings.Verse 4:“He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge…”In other words, look up — Christian, you've got wings over you. You've got your protector watching over you. You're under the shelter of the wings that rule the world. You live under those wings. You can face every trial underneath those wings. You never need leave the wings.What do you most fear in life? Illness. A car accident. Natural disaster. Death of a loved one. Go ahead, don't ignore it, put it right out there in front of you. And now, see Him, God himself, your refuge all about you. How does your fear change when facing it from the shelter of God? When facing it with God, and in God, and near God? Threats exist, but so do the wings. Cities Church, in a world loaded with threats to human life: find your refuge in God who is personal (covers you with wings).And, third, faithful. God is faithful.FaithfulNow, here is where I want us to recognize a tension. A tension some of you may be feeling in this moment. A tension that some of you began feeling the moment this psalm was read. And it is a tension between what it seems this psalm could be saying and what we know throughout history has in fact occurred.I mean, we've got world history — which tells of innumerable Christians, innumerable people who found their refuge in God, who ended up being persecuted, tortured, and even martyred for their faith. You've got that in world history, and you've got your own personal history: That day you did get the diagnosis, that evening you did get in the car accident, that morning you did get the phone call, that night the terror did show up, that day the arrow did sink deep, that noontime the destruction did come about.And so when you read verse 4…“His faithfulness is a shield and buckler.”…You might think, is it? It seems some things have gotten past his shield. Some enemies have pierced through his shield.Or, when you read over all these “will” promises from Psalm 91:“For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler” (v. 3).“He will cover you with his pinions” (v. 4).“I will deliver him; I will protect him” (v. 14).You might think, did he cover me? Did he protect me? Or when you read the even more sweeping statements like:“A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you (v. 7).“No evil shall be allowed to befall you, no plague come near your tent” (v. 10).You might think, Christians have fallen. Evil has come near.It makes us wonder: How do you understand God's Psalm 91 faithfulness in light of life experience?Another way to ask it: How do you read Psalm 91 as a Christian?As a ChristianFirst, you recognize that even within this very psalm there's a hint of the fact that not every trouble in life will be avoided. Note verse 15:“When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble;”Not, “I will keep him from trouble,” but “In the trouble, there I will be with him.” So, the shadow doesn't leave. The wings don't fly away. God stays, but, at least here, the trouble stays as well. So, that's the first thing. Here's the second: Recognize Psalm 91 was first written to Israel under the Old Covenant. The Old Covenant which did contain literal promises for physical safety that were contingent upon the peoples' faithfulness.And so when those members of the Old Covenant read Psalm 91, they likely took every one of these promises to be literally true, and were basically right to do so, assuming they were following the Laws of Moses.But, as the church, we're not Old Covenant Israel. We're members of the New Covenant which, while being so much better than the old, contains no promise of worldly safety. Safety, to be sure, but of a far greater order and greater scope than mere safety in this life.As an example, Jesus says in Luke 21:16-19,“You will be delivered up even by parents and brothers and relatives and friends, and some of you they will put to death. You will be hated by all for my name's sake. But [and catch this] not a hair of your head will perish.”You're going to die, but not a hair of your head will perish. Safety, yes, but a safety stretching well past the vapor that is this life.Or, from Romans 8:“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?”In other words, these things may happen to you, and Paul even adds…“For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.” But can any of it separate you from Christ? Verse 37:“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”You see, there's a safety of a different order that's been promised us as Christians. A safety that's far more long lasting, far more secure, and far more satisfying. Knowing that can help us get perspective here as we read these very specific promises in Psalm 91. The promise of safety that God gives us as Christians is not less than Psalm 91, but greater. Last one: How do you read Psalm 91 as a Christian? First, note the hint of trouble even in Psalm 91: “Be with you in trouble.” Second, note the difference between safety in the Old Covenant verses safety in the New.Third, note how Jesus responded when Satan quoted it.Jesus and Psalm 91Now, turn with me to Luke 4. It's in the New Testament. I really want you to see this with me so grab your Bible and find the Gospel of Luke, chapter 4. The setting is just after Jesus officially began his ministry. Baptized by John, filled with the Spirit, Jesus has walked out into the wilderness for a forty-day solo journey without food. He's starving — literally starving — by the time we see him in Luke 4. And there we find Satan whispering in his ear. He first tempts Jesus to turn the stones into bread. Jesus refuses. He'll keep starving.He then tempts Jesus toward riches and idolatry — “worship me and I'll give you worldly splendor.” Jesus refuses. He'll keep serving God only. Then, Satan quotes Psalm 91. Why? Why would Satan quote Scripture? Wouldn't that run entirely counter to his schemes? Wouldn't Scripture just spur Jesus onward?See it with me in Luke 4:9,And he took him to Jerusalem and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, 10 for it is written [Psalm 91:11-12],“‘He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you,'11 and“‘On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'”And so it is Psalm 91, but set up as a question… “If you are the Son of God,” and a challenge… “throw yourself down from here.”The intended effect is clear: to take what is a testimony to God's faithfulness and turn it into a set of criteria for testing God's faithfulness.Satan is saying, “If you really believe Psalm 91, Jesus, then make God prove it in this particular way and at this particular time.”Now, let's ask: What does Psalm 91, no-evil-shall-befall-you, trust in God's faithfulness look like in such a moment? What does Psalm 91, trust in God's faithfulness look like when trouble comes and you are, like Jesus, staring it right in the face?When you get home from travel and realize that while you were away, the house was broken into; or when you pull up your bank statement, recognize your credit card got stolen, you've been robbed; or when the boss calls you in, fires you without reason or explanation; or the car gets backed into; the cough gets worse; the teenage rebellion continues; the doctor calls you and gives you the diagnosis you've always feared. Does it look like:“God, you must now prove to me your faithfulness by protecting me in this exact way?”“God, if you are who you say you are, then you must rescue me at this exact time.”“God, here are my Psalm 91 criteria, you better toe-the-line or I won't believe you.” Or does it look like Luke 4:12?…And Jesus answered him, “It is said, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'”You see it? Psalm 91 trust says: Father, because I know that you are who you are, I trust you to guard me in your way and your time. I don't need you to prove yourself to me; all I need you to do is keep me under your wings.God is faithful, brothers and sisters. His wings won't lift. He'll be with you in the trouble. Your safety, in him, is sure and lasting. What can separate you from Christ? Nothing. You are more than a conqueror through him.Cities Church, in a world loaded with threats to human life, find your refuge in God who is faithful — in his time, in his way, for your eternal security.Now, last point, and this will be very quick. God is powerful, personal, faithful and, lastly, just. JustPsalm 91:8,“You will only look with your eyes and see the recompense of the wicked.”Another way to render that word recompense is judgement. In other words, Christian, there may be a gap between the moment trouble comes and the moment trouble leaves. There may be a time between the hurt and the healing. There may be a difference between what you are expecting in heaven, and what you're experiencing on earth. There may be a prolonged season in which you need to fight to keep believing that God is who he says he is. There may be decades in which it seems you're not more than a conqueror, but a conquered one, whose enemy is just having a field day. Nevertheless, your eyes will see your enemy bite the dust. Your eyes will see your enemy fleeing in terror. Your eyes will see Jesus, your King, come again, and condemn all who ever wronged you and remained unrepentant.No one gets away with anything with God. No injustice will ultimately stand. It may linger for a time, the gap may remain. It will end. God will make it end. God is just. You will, one day, “look with your eyes and see the recompense of the wicked.”And so, Cities Church… In a world loaded with threats to human life, find your refuge in God who is powerful enough to command the angels, and personal enough to cover you with his wings, and faithful enough to keep you in him through all of life, and just enough to punish any evil ever committed against you. The TableNow, what brings us to the table this morning is the fact that not only did Jesus trust his Father while suffering in a desert, but also while hanging on a cross… On that day when the terror of the night in Gethsemane gave way to the arrows of the day through his hands and feet. On that day when the people challenged: “He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him.” On that day when Jesus took his final breath and kept trusting:“Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!”This table reminds us of our savior who died trusting, and then rose again three days later. Our savior who now invites all who believe in him to eat with anticipation for the day when we'll eat with him in heaven with all life's threats finally and forever behind us. That's what this table represents.I gladly invite those who are trusting in Jesus to take and eat this meal with us. If you've not put your trust in Jesus, we ask that you'd let the elements pass for now, but encourage you in this moment — turn to Jesus. Ask him to become your refuge. You need one. The threats are real. You're human. And God is inviting you, right now, find your refuge in him by faith.

* You can get the sermon note sheet at: http://family-bible-church.org/2025Messages/25Jul06.pdf * Four weeks ago we turned to the final day of Jesus the Messiah's earthly life and ministry with the consideration of Judas' decision to betray Jesus. Since then, we examined the Passover Seder that Jesus held with His disciples and Jesus' example of having a Servant's Heart (to lead by humbly serving). * Today, we finish a two-week look at Luke's account of Jesus warning His disciples of trouble that is coming, with specific warning to Simon Peter, followed by Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives, Judas' betrayal of Jesus, Jesus' arrest, and Peter's three denials of Jesus. These events are connected; Jesus' warning and example show us that prayer is the key to avoiding temptation, to successfully handling a troublesome situation, and that without it we are likely to succumb to temptation – Judas fails by going through with the betrayal, Peter fails by denying Christ. * Meanwhile, Jesus succeeds! He does not enter into temptation. Rather, Jesus goes forward with carrying out the will of the Father. In the process, Jesus demonstrates great love for us: “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends.” – John 15:12

Brother Kirby Myers is a beloved former member of the church who grew up attending and now returns as a camp pastor with FCA. Known for his heartfelt preaching and down-to-earth humor, he shared a powerful message from Matthew 26, emphasizing the humanity of Christ through His sorrow in Gethsemane, His prayerful submission to the Father, and the strength that followed. His sermon reminded us that sorrow should lead to supplication, and through prayer, God supplies the strength we need to endure.#KirbyMyers #FCAcamp #ManOfSorrows #ChristOurStrength #Gethsemane #GospelHope #ObedienceToGod

Jesus Says “Self-Denial” Is Required of Jesus Followers: “let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me" MESSAGE SUMMARY: In a time in which we hear so much about self-help, self-image, and self-actualization, Jesus is saying self-denial is the way to life. Jesus tells us, in Matthew 16:24, that self-denial is a key element in following Him: “Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.'". “Taking up one's cross” means to die to self-ambitions. When we die to our self-ambitious and put them on the cross, Jesus' life moves through us: “Not my will but Thy will.”. By denying self, we become alive in Jesus; and His Spirit flows through us – we experience eternal life and abundant life.     TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus' name, amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, I will trust in the Lord with all my heart. I will trust in the Lord with all of my heart and lean not on my own understanding.  In all my ways I will seek to know Him, and He will make my pathways straight.   From Proverbs 3:5f SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 16:24; Mathew 10:38-39; Galatians 6:14-17; Psalms 141:1-10. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Wake Up America!” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

••• The Struggle at Gethsemane, Segment-2 of 2 , Ep 388b••• Bible Study Verses: 1 Kings 18:44, Numbers 33.55, Luke 22:24-44, Mark 14.32-38, Exodus 17:11-12, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, 1 Corinthians 9:27, Genesis 1:26 . PART-A VERSES: Matthew 26.44, John 18:11, Psalms 75:8, Habakkuk 1:13, Romans 7:22-23 . ••• "Victory is never won alone" A.T. Woodrow Kroll, 1944- † ••• “For the LORD your God is He that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you" Deuteronomy 20:4, KJV . ••• How does one sustain the victory in Christ? ••• What does the term 'praying through' mean? ••• What are 4-reasons why it is so important to win at Gethsemane? ••• What is a slippery victory? ••• What is the secret of separation? ••• What were the 5-secrets of victory that Christ Jesus used at Gethsemane? ••• What are the 7-characteristics of the one who can victory at Gethsemane? ••• Are you going to ask your small group to pray that you will be willing to live in the reality of the dominion that the Lord Christ Jesus has given to us? ••• Pastor Otuno expounds on this and much more on the exciting journey of Fresh Encounter Radio Podcast originally aired on July 26, 2025 on WNQM, Nashville Quality Ministries and WWCR World Wide Christian Radio broadcast to all 7-continents on this big beautiful blue marble, earth, floating through space. Please be prayerful before studying The Word of God so that you will receive the most inspiration possible. ••• This Discipleship Teaching Podcast is brought to you by Christian Leadership International and all the beloved of God who believe in its mission through prayer and support. Thank you . ••• Broadcaster's Website - https://www.lifelonganointing.com/ .••• Exceeding Thanks to Universe Creator Christ Jesus AND photo by Stacey Franco, https://www.instagram.com/staceyfranc0/, on unsplash, Art Direction by gil on his mac with free mac layout software . ••• Study Guides at - https://shows.acast.com/fresh-encounter-radio-podcast/episodes .••• SHARING LINK: https://shows.acast.com/fresh-encounter-radio-podcast/250705-the-secret-behind-the-believers-dominion-p2-s2-ep388b . ••• † http://christian-quotes.ochristian.com/Woodrow-Kroll-Quotes/ , Woodrow Michael Kroll is the president & Bible teacher for the international Back to the Bible radio & television ministry. He is a former president of Davis College (formerly Practical Bible College) in Johnson City, NY. He is a prolific writer, having authored more than 50 books expounding on the Bible & Christian living. Woodrow Kroll began his ministry as the pastor of First Baptist Church in Middleboro, Massachusetts (1968-1970). He then taught at Practical Bible Training School (now Davis College) 1971-1973. From 1975 to 1980, he chaired the Division of Religion at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. On January 17, 1981, Woodrow Kroll was inaugurated as president of Practical Bible Training School, also teaching Bible & preaching while serving as president. He also developed the administration, curriculum, & much of the school's structure as it exists today, now as Davis College. Dr. Kroll resigned on April 27, 1990, to assume the leadership of the Back to the Bible organization .••• RESOURCE - https://www.soundcloud.com/thewaytogod/ . ••• RESOURCE - https://www.biblegateway.com/audio/mclean/kjv/john.1%20 .••• FERP250705- Episode#388b GOT250705 Ep388b . ••• The Secret Behind the Believers Dominion, Part-2: The Struggle at Gethsemane, Segment-B .Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/fresh-encounter-radio-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to season eleven Aramaic Word of the day: Malkutha — Kingdom As your guide through the streets of Jerusalem, I don't just point out ruins. Show only churches and archeological sites. I help people to remember the world Yeshua walked, the language He spoke, and the Kingdom He proclaimed. And today, I want to walk you into one of His most powerful words:  Malkutha — Kingdom. In Aramaic, Malkutha doesn't just mean a realm or a place. It's the reign of Goaad made visible not in walls or palaces, but in the way we live, love, and listen. When Yeshua stood on the Mount of Olives, just behind me, looking toward the Temple, He wasn't dreaming of taking back political control. He wasn't interested in a crown of gold.He was revealing a different kind of kingdom one that starts within you, not on top of the mountain.  Again when I guide pilgrims from the West specially on the mount of olives and when i speak about the kingdom of God and the temple mount and his reign, I often see this difference unfold before my eyes. The Western mind wants structure. It wants to define the Kingdom where is it? Who's in charge? What's the system? It thinks like Rome: build it, measure it, enforce it. But here in the East in the Semitic world of the Bible we don't define the Kingdom, we experience it. I have questions from the pilgrims from the West: “Where is the Kingdom?”In Jerusalem: “Who is the King and is He welcome at your table?” They want answers Now they want to understand and have fact.  Also in the West: “What are the boundaries?”In the East: “What is the relationship?” Then i answer them from scripture That's why in Luke 17:21, Yeshua says: "The Kingdom of God does not come with observation... behold, the Kingdom of God is within you." He was speaking like a Galilean rabbi, not a Greek philosopher.He was drawing from the well of intimacy, not institution. Then i give them this example As a guide, my life is not about showing people pretty views, it is about bearing witness to the Kingdom in action. When I walk the Via Dolorosa with guests. When I lead prayers in the Garden of Gethsemane. When I share bread with strangers at the Damascus Gate. That's Malkutha the Kingdom becoming flesh again in us. It's not something we wait for. It's something we live. And we either reveal it or resist it by how we treat the poor, the enemy, the orphan, and yes, the tourist too. So today, my friend, whisper the word: Malkutha. Let it roll gently from your tongue like olive oil from a press.  And ask yourself: “Is the King just a belief in my head? Or is He reigning through my hospitality, my forgiveness, my courage, my joy?”  Here in Jerusalem, we don't ask where is the Kingdom? We ask: Are you letting it break in, like light through an ancient window? from your home from your heart.  Yeshua's kingdom is not far it is as close as your next act of love. it is inside you, you do not need to search for it outside or in Jerusalem or in the temple or in any place.  It is you! i pray that you are encouraged today and the Aramaic word of the day touched your heart.  For more in depth teaching www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com 

In This episode of Catholic Answers Live we cover questions on: Catholic-Muslim views on God, early Church writings, Arian heresies, salvation through the Church, Marian apparitions, explaining the Eucharist to Protestants, creation timeline in Genesis, Jesus' agony in the Garden, and proper handling of cremated ashes. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:05 – What is a succinct apologetics response to the claim that Catholics worship the same God as Muslims? How can this be explained clearly to Protestants? 12:35 – Is there a book or collection of theological documents from the first to third centuries? 21:29 – How can one refute an Arian-type heresy when discussing with others? 29:15 – What does it mean that salvation comes through the Catholic Church, especially in light of the alleged Marian apparition above a Coptic church in Zeitoun, Egypt? 36:03 – How can the Catholic teaching on the Eucharist be explained to Protestants who claim it resembles cannibalism? 46:37 – Why did God wait until the fourth day to create the sun, moon, and stars when He said “let there be light” on the first day? Follow-up – Why did Jesus agonize in the Garden of Gethsemane if He knew His Passion was necessary? 51:15 – If a family cannot afford cemetery entombment, is it permissible to spread a loved one's ashes on cemetery grounds?

In today's powerful Morning Prayer session, Pastor Sean Pinder delivers a timely word from Luke 22:39-54, reminding us that even in moments of testing and betrayal, God is setting us up for victory. Just as Jesus faced the Garden of Gethsemane, He was not abandoned—He was being prepared for triumph.When you feel surrounded by pressure, pain, or uncertainty, remember: God is not setting you up to fail—He's positioning you for a breakthrough. In this message, you'll learn how to persevere in prayer, trust God's timing, and walk boldly into your divine assignment.

Full Text of ReadingsSolemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles Lectionary: 590, 591The Saint of the day is Saints Peter and PaulSaints Peter and Paul's Story Peter (d. 64?) Saint Mark ends the first half of his Gospel with a triumphant climax. He has recorded doubt, misunderstanding, and the opposition of many to Jesus. Now Peter makes his great confession of faith: “You are the Messiah” (Mark 8:29b). It was one of the many glorious moments in Peter's life, beginning with the day he was called from his nets along the Sea of Galilee to become a fisher of men for Jesus. The New Testament clearly shows Peter as the leader of the apostles, chosen by Jesus to have a special relationship with him. With James and John he was privileged to witness the Transfiguration, the raising of a dead child to life, and the agony in Gethsemane. His mother-in-law was cured by Jesus. He was sent with John to prepare for the last Passover before Jesus' death. His name is first on every list of apostles. And to Peter only did Jesus say, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven” (Matthew 16:17b-19). But the Gospels prove their own trustworthiness by the unflattering details they include about Peter. He clearly had no public relations person. It is a great comfort for ordinary mortals to know that Peter also has his human weakness, even in the presence of Jesus. He generously gave up all things, yet he can ask in childish self-regard, “What are we going to get for all this?” (see Matthew 19:27). He receives the full force of Christ's anger when he objects to the idea of a suffering Messiah: “Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle to me. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do” (Matthew 16:23b). Peter is willing to accept Jesus' doctrine of forgiveness, but suggests a limit of seven times. He walks on the water in faith, but sinks in doubt. He refuses to let Jesus wash his feet, then wants his whole body cleansed. He swears at the Last Supper that he will never deny Jesus, and then swears to a servant maid that he has never known the man. He loyally resists the first attempt to arrest Jesus by cutting off Malchus' ear, but in the end he runs away with the others. In the depth of his sorrow, Jesus looks on him and forgives him, and he goes out and sheds bitter tears. The Risen Jesus told Peter to feed his lambs and his sheep (John 21:15-17). Paul (d. 64?) If the most well-known preacher today suddenly began preaching that the United States should adopt Marxism and not rely on the Constitution, the angry reaction would help us understand Paul's life when he started preaching that Christ alone can save us. He had been the most pharisaic of Pharisees, the most legalistic of Mosaic lawyers. Now he suddenly appears to other Jews as a heretical welcomer of Gentiles, a traitor and apostate. Paul's central conviction was simple and absolute: Only God can save humanity. No human effort—even the most scrupulous observance of law—can create a human good which we can bring to God as reparation for sin and payment for grace. To be saved from itself, from sin, from the devil, and from death, humanity must open itself completely to the saving power of Jesus. Paul never lost his love for his Jewish family, though he carried on a lifelong debate with them about the uselessness of the Law without Christ. He reminded the Gentiles that they were grafted on the parent stock of the Jews, who were still God's chosen people, the children of the promise. Reflection We would probably go to confession to Peter sooner than to any of the other apostles. He is perhaps a more striking example of the simple fact of holiness. Jesus says to us as he said, in effect, to Peter: “It is not you who have chosen me, but I who have chosen you. Peter, it is not human wisdom that makes it possible for you to believe, but my Father's revelation. I, not you, build my Church.” Paul's experience of the risen Jesus on the road to Damascus was the driving force that made him one of the most zealous, dynamic, and courageous ambassadors of Christ the Church has ever had. But persecution, humiliation, and weakness became his day-by-day carrying of the cross, material for further transformation. The dying Christ was in him; the living Christ was his life. Saint Paul is the Patron Saint of: Greece Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

In the sixth episode of "The Fundamentals of Prayer," Duane Sheriff teaches that effective prayer is rooted in knowing and praying according to God's will revealed in His Word and promises. 1 John 5:14-15 teaches that when we pray according to God's will, we can be confident He hears us and grants our petitions. Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane is an example of praying God's will, even in a difficult circumstance. By aligning our prayers with His promises, we can approach the throne of grace with boldness and expectation. https://pastorduane.com/fundamentals-of-prayer/

In a world that never stops shouting, God still chooses to whisper.This episode invites you into the holy hush—into solitude, silence, and stillness—where the soul is strengthened and peace is restored. Drawing from biblical examples like Jesus in Gethsemane, Elijah in the cave, and Hannah at the temple, E walks you through how holy stillness isn't weakness—it's warfare.Laced with Bible verses, this episode is a call to step away from the noise and return to the presence of the One who never shakes, never leaves, and never fails.If your soul feels tired, anxious, or spiritually thin, this sacred pause is for you.Take a deep breath. Press play. And let Heaven speak.We hope that you enjoy this episode. God bless you and Go Rise Up!Shop PROCLAIM's latest drop: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.proclaim365.com/shop⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join BIBLEin365 and read the entire Bible with us in a year: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.proclaim365.com/biblein365⁠⁠⁠

Praying for Change: A Path to National Reconciliation   Feeling stuck on how to pray for America? You're not alone—but there is a path forward. In this timely episode, Good Faith “founding friend” and New York Times columnist David French lays out five virtue-based ways to pray for our nation with clarity, courage, and compassion. Drawing upon Scripture with a healthy dose of personal reflection, David extols the importance of praying for America as a daily act to seek God's best for our country and each other—restoring unity and healing what's broken.   Episode Companion: Prayer Guide   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Scriptures mentioned in this episode: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV) The Lord's Prayer in Matthew 6:5-13 (ESV) "The Ministry of Reconciliation" in 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 (ESV) Jesus Prays in the Garden of Gethsemane in Matthew 26:36-46 (ESV) Micah 6:8 Ephesians 4:3 Isaiah 42:3 Psalm 34:18   Resources mentioned in this episode: The Ongoing Los Angeles Protests Australian journalist shot by rubber bullet during L.A. protests (video) Waymo taxis Ablaze in Los Angeles Georgetown scholar recalls ‘mockery of due process' in immigration jail The Westminster Confession's Standards for the 9th Commandment South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission Les Miserables: The Bishop and the Redemption of Jean Valjean What Is Restorative Justice? More about the work of Brennan Manning Tim Keller's Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God Dennis F. Kinlaw's Prayer: Bearing the World as Jesus Does E.M. Bounds on Prayer Dietrich Bonhoeffer on Praying the Psalms The work of Michael Card More about the work of Rich Mullins The Lost Dogs' Pray Where You Are (song & lyrics)   More From David French: David French's New York Times pieces HERE Follow David French on Threads   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Fr. Mike guides us through Jesus' warning of persecution to the people of Israel as we near the end of Mark's Gospel. He also touches on how Jesus' behavior in the Garden of Gethsemane should serve as an example to us, and explains why Judas' betrayal was so heartbreaking. Today's readings are Mark 13-14 and Psalm 68.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.