Podcasts about Gethsemane

Have you ever been hurt by someone who was trying to help?Job has already lost his wealth, children, and health. Now, in Job chapters 4–7, his three closest friends finally break their silence. What they say makes everything worse. Eliphaz, the self-appointed pious preacher of the group, opens his case, and Job begs them to see him instead of prosecuting him. When no one does, he turns directly to God with raw, anguished fury and honesty.What you'll learn:The Retribution Principle: Why all three of Job's friends operate from the same flawed assumption that suffering always means sin, and why God himself will reject this theology by the end of the book.Eliphaz, the pious preacher: How good intentions, spiritual experience, and theological knowledge can still cause devastating harm to someone in crisis.The Wadi metaphor: What Job means when he compares his friends to a dried-up desert riverbed.Job's "I'd rather die" moment: Why Job's shocking cry in chapter 6 is not a crisis of faith and how it foreshadows both Gethsemane and the cross.Honest prayer: Why Job's angry, unfiltered words to God in chapter 7 are still prayer and what that means for anyone hitting rock bottom right now.Discussion Questions: Reflecting on Job 4–7Job compared his friends to a dry wadi: they looked like water from a distance but had nothing to offer up close. Have you ever felt that kind of disappointment from someone you counted on in a crisis?Have you ever been like Eliphaz—certain you understood why someone was suffering, only to realize later you were causing more harm than comfort?Job's honest, angry prayer was still prayer. Does it change how you approach God to know that questions and anguish are not the same as losing faith?This podcast episode is part of our ongoing Bible Book Club series, Season 18: The Book of Job.We love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!Contact Bible Book ClubDONATE Buy merch Like, comment, or message us through Bible Book Club's InstagramLike or comment on Susan's Facebook or InstagramLeave us an Apple reviewContact us through our website formThanks for listening and happy podcasting!

How can sacred art help us feel closer to the Savior and more fully understand his Atonement? In this episode, professor of ancient scripture John Hilton III discusses his new book Behold the Lamb: A Visual Witness of the Savior's Final Hours, created with Anthony Sweat and J. Kirk Richards. The book gathers contemporary Latter-day Saint artwork depicting the final twelve hours of Christ's mortal life and invites deeper reflection on each piece through artist insights, artistic commentary, and cultural context. Professor Hilton explores why Latter-day Saints often favor images of Gethsemane and the Resurrection over those of the Crucifixion, how scripture emphasizes Christ's death as central to His Atonement, and how sacred art can help us "behold the Lamb of God…[who] was lifted up upon the cross and slain for the sins of the world" (1 Nephi 11: 32–33) with greater devotion. This episode offers a meaningful way to enrich your Easter season and deepen your discipleship.   Publications: Behold the Lamb: A Visual Witness of the Savior's Final Hours, co-authored with Anthony Sweat and J. Kirk Richards, Religious Studies Center (2026) Considering the Cross: How Calvary Connects Us with Christ, Deseret Books (2021) "The Loving Christ," in The Power of Christ's Deliverence, Religious Studies Center (2022) Highlighted artwork: A Place Called Gethsemane, Anthony Sweat Arms of Mercy, Anthony Sweat Judged of the World, Emilie Buck Lewis King of the Jews, Tyler Swain Advocate, Chad Winks Christ's Cross, Joseph Chu And Israel's Daughters Wept Around, Rose Datoc Dall Finisher of Our Faith, Eva Koleva Timothy How Beautiful upon the Mountain…, Maureen Merrell View His Death, Anthony Sweat Spear in His Side, J. Kirk Richards Descent From The Cross, Brian Kershisnik  Held, Kristin Alley Carver At Birth and Death, Esther Candari Nicodemus in the Tomb, Lester Yocum Click here to learn more about John Hilton III, here to learn more about Anthony Sweat, and here to learn more about J. Kirk Richards

God's most magnificent plan unfolds not through human power and strength, but through weakness—supremely demonstrated when Jesus willingly submitted to arrest and crucifixion in the Garden of Gethsemane. When we embrace our own weakness and dependence on Christ, we discover that God's power is made perfect in our vulnerability, transforming us into servants who reflect His upside-down kingdom values.Series Summary: The religious leaders at the cross hurled a challenge at Jesus: “Let this Messiah, this King of Israel, come down now from the cross, that we may see and believe.” They demanded proof before faith. But the Gospel of Mark, especially in its story of the Passion, invites us into a different reality: believing in order to see. From the anointing at Bethany to the silent emptiness of the tomb, Jesus' journey subverts our expectations. The one hailed as king is crowned with thorns. The one with power to calm storms submits to arrest. The consistent, sure thread through the chaos is his Word. As the angel at the tomb reminded the trembling women, “He is going ahead of you…just as he told you.” As we study through Mark's Passion, we are invited to follow Jesus—not by sight, but by faith in his sure and leading Word.Add St. Marcus as your church on the Church Center App!Fill out our online connection cardHow can we pray for you? If you'd like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here.

Today’s Bible Verse: “Then he said to them, ‘My soul is very sorrowful to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.’” — Matthew 26:38 Matthew 26:38 gives us a deeply human moment from the life of Jesus. In the Garden of Gethsemane, as He faced the suffering of the cross, Jesus openly expressed the weight of His sorrow. He did not hide His anguish—He shared it with His closest disciples and asked them to stay with Him. Want to listen without ads? Become a BibleStudyTools.com PLUS Member today: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe MEET YOUR HOST: Dr. Kyle Norman at https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ The Reverend Dr. Kyle Norman is the Rector of St. Paul’s Cathedral, located in Kamloops BC, Canada. He holds a doctorate in Spiritual formation and is a sought-after writer, speaker, and retreat leader. His writing can be found at Christianity.com, crosswalk.com, ibelieve.com, Renovare Canada, and many others. Rev. Norman has 20 years of pastoral experience, and his ministry focuses on helping people overcome times of spiritual discouragement.Find more from Rev. Norman at revkylenorman.ca This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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Gethsemane shows us what prayer looks like in agony: intimate relationship (“Abba”), honest pleading, spiritual dependence, and firm resolve to obey God's will. When others are weak, God is not. This episode calls us to stop hiding behind religious polish and instead bring our distress to the Father—because resurrection life comes on the far side of faithful endurance.

What really happened during the final hours before the cross? From the Upper Room to the Garden of Gethsemane, every step reveals the cost of our redemption. Join Jim Scudder on InGrace as he walks these sacred places in Jerusalem and points us to the heart of the Gospel. Join the adventure!

On the night Jesus was betrayed, He walked into the Garden of Gethsemane knowing exactly what was coming. In that garden, surrounded by olive trees, the Son of God was pressed under the weight of what He was about to carry. Just as olives are crushed to produce oil, Jesus was pressed in prayer, sorrow, and surrender. This message explores the moment before the arrest, when the pressure of the cross was already bearing down on Him and yet He chose obedience. In the place of crushing, God was preparing salvation for the world.

Jesus Prays in the Garden of Gethsemane

Send a textThis Easter, are you preparing your invite list — or your heart? In this episode of Midweek Motivation, Jess and Caleb break down what it actually means to prepare for Easter, why most of us default to "get it done" mode, and how grounding yourself in the sacrifice of Jesus changes the way you invite, serve, and show up for your community.Discover:What we're really preparing for when we prepare for EasterWhy Easter isn't just the "church Super Bowl" — and how to treat it differentlyThe connection between personal conviction and powerful invitationsCaleb's daily morning routine for staying grounded in scripture and prayerHow the Garden of Gethsemane reveals Jesus' model for handling pressureWhy prayer is the single most important step you can take right nowA practical discipleship tool (the Bless app) to help you live out the Great CommissionyGET THE BLESS APP: https://app.blesseveryhome.com/Reflection: Easter is an incredible opportunity — but opportunities without preparation are just events. Before you focus on who you're inviting, take the time to let the weight of the cross and the power of the resurrection settle into your own heart. When you're grounded in that sacrifice, everything else — your invitation, your courage, your conviction — flows from overflow, not obligation. Put your oxygen mask on first. Then go change some lives.Key Takeaways:Preparation for Easter starts with your own heart before it moves to your invite listIf you haven't processed the sacrifice yourself, you're missing the power behind the invitationPeople respond to conviction they can see in you — not just wordsPrayer is the force field that protects your mind and heart from distraction and spiritual warfareEaster is not optional enthusiasm — it's a requirement of stepping out in faith for the Great CommissionA daily rhythm of scripture, reflection, and prayer keeps you grounded year-round, not just at EasterQuestion for you to think about: When was the last time you sat with the sacrifice of Jesus long enough to actually feel it — not just know it?Calls to Action: Subscribe so you never miss an episode, drop a comment sharing how you're preparing your heart for Easter this year, and share this with someone who needs to hear it before Easter Sunday. Download the Bless app (linked below) and start walking through the discipleship process with someone in your life.LINKS & RESOURCES Download the Bless app: https://bfriendbless.com SUBSCRIBE to always see our content and let us reach more people for Jesus: https://www.youtube.com/westsidecommunitychurchpdx?sub_confirmation=1 Give to support this ministry and help us reach people all around the world: https://www.westsidecommunitychurch.com/giveSTAY CONNECTED Website: https://www.westsidecommunitychurch.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westsidecommunitychurch Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/westsidecommunitychurchpdx#MidweekMotivation #Easter #EasterPreparation #PrepareYourHeart #WestsideCommunityChurch #GreatCommission #PrayWithoutCeasing #FaithOverFear #ChristianPodcast #ResurrectionSunday #ChurchCommunity #BlessApp #DiscipleshipMatters #InviteSomeone #EasterSunday

Pressure is part of life, but it can also shape our faith. In this message, Pastor Ben Young reflects on Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane and what it teaches us about pain, persistence, and trust in God. Discover how seasons of pressure can deepen faith and how God's grace sustains us through life's most difficult moments.

A quiet table, a broken loaf, and a promise no one fully understood—then a dark garden where even friends fell asleep. We trace that arc from the Last Supper to Gethsemane to ask a hard question: what does real courage look like when fear tightens its grip and the easy exit glows? Our journey starts with Jesus' prayer—honest, anguished, obedient—and moves into watchfulness, where the spirit is willing but the body begs for rest. Along the way we wrestle with betrayal, denial, and the pull of violence, and we settle on a different kind of strength: surrender to a good Father.From there, we turn the lens on home ground. Marriage counsel is everywhere, but not all of it builds a house that lasts. We make the case for roles as service, not status, and for vows that hold when feelings wilt. Psalms and Proverbs sharpen the point: dishonest scales corrode everything they touch, pride leads us over a cliff, and humility guides us back to wisdom. These texts are not museum pieces—they are street-level tools for speech, money, and motives.History chimes in with a warning and a witness. We note a brutal atrocity to show what happens when ideology outruns conscience, and we highlight a soldier's grit to remind us that courage is costly. Then we bring it home to America's civic fabric, drawing on John Quincy Adams to argue that policy alone cannot save a people who neglect virtue. The fix begins smaller and nearer—habits, homes, churches, and neighbors—before it can shape laws that last. If you're ready to trade outrage for watchfulness and quick fixes for formation, press play and sit with us at the table and in the garden. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs courage tonight, and leave a review to help more listeners find the show.#JohnQuincyAdams#DailyScripture #MiddleGradeFictionSupport the showThe American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe Countryside Book Series https://www.amazon.com/Countryside-Book-J-T-Cope-IV-ebook/dp/B00MPIXOB2

When life doesn't turn out the way we hoped, what do we do with the disappointment? It's easy to become bitter, discouraged, or even begin to question God. But what if disappointment isn't the end of the story? In Mark 14:26–42, Pastor Dustin Aagaard walks through Jesus' moment in the Garden of Gethsemane, where even Jesus experienced deep sorrow and disappointment. His closest friends fell asleep when He asked them to pray, and the weight of what was ahead pressed heavily on Him. Yet in that moment, Jesus models something powerful: honesty with the Father, closeness to God in the middle of pain, and radical surrender to God's will. Disappointment doesn't have to define you. Instead, it can become a signal that draws you closer to God. When we bring our hurt, questions, and unmet expectations to the Father, He can transform disappointment into deeper faith, stronger trust, and lasting hope.

What could make God sweat blood? Private revelations on Jesus' Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane shed light on an event shrouded in darkness. The transcription for this Podcast can be found at https://www.ourcatholicprayers.com/grief-at-Gethsemane.html  

Oh, John Piper... Does bad theology actually hurt people in the real world? Today Mike Erre and Tim Stafford dive deep into the intersection of faith, war, and the heavy burden of rigid religious systems that leave no room for human pain. From political rhetoric to pastoral advice, they explore how our view of God shapes our response to suffering and global conflict. The conversation begins with a lighthearted look at Seth Erre's new podcast before shifting into the sobering reality of the conflict in Iran and the troubling rhetoric of Christian nationalism. The heart of the episode is a detailed critique of John Piper's recent teaching on lament. Piper suggests that criticizing God's ways is always a sin, but Mike and Tim argue that the biblical text shows a much more complex, raw, and honest relationship between the Creator and the suffering. By looking at the Garden of Gethsemane, the book of Job, and the laments of Jeremiah, they challenge the idea that faith requires passive resignation. Instead, they propose a slow theology that values human agency and honest wrestling. Along the way, they pull in surprising insights from Oppenheimer, Batman, and even Henry Rollins to discuss education, empathy, and what it truly means to be an image-bearer in a chaotic world. CHAPTERS 0:00 INTRO AND THE BEST FRIENDS PODCAST 3:15 AUSTIN POWERS AND THE GOLDEN DRAPES 6:00 THEOLOGY OF WAR AND CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM 10:45 THE ETYMOLOGY OF WOKE AND MILITARY RHETORIC 1 3:50 NAMING THE FALLEN AND VICTIMS OF WAR 18:15 FINDING HOPE AND THE CHURCH AS A MIRROR 22:30 IT TAKES A VILLAGE FOR AMERICA AND THE CHURCH 26:45 JOHN PIPER ON LAMENT AND CHRONIC ILLNESS 32:00 IS IT ALWAYS A SIN TO CRITICIZE GOD 37:15 SOVEREIGNTY VS THE REALITY OF EVIL 42:30 BIBLICAL PROTEST IN JOB AND JEREMIAH 47:50 GETHSEMANE AND THE HONEST WRESTLING OF JESUS 53:00 THE SHEPHERD METAPHOR VS RELIGIOUS CAGES 57:45 SLOW THEOLOGY AND THE POWER OF AGENCY 1:02:30 OPPENHEIMER EDUCATION AND HUMAN DISCOVERY 1:06:50 CLOSING THOUGHTS AND HOW TO SUPPORT THE SHOW If you value these deep dives into the complexities of faith and culture, please consider supporting the Voxology Podcast. We are a listener-supported nonprofit dedicated to creating a space for honest conversation. JOIN THE COMMUNITY Check out our Patreon at patreon.com/voxology Find us on Instagram at instagram.com/voxologypodcast Visit our website at voxologypodcast.com Thank you for walking this long road with us. Like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs a more compassionate perspective on faith and suffering. As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. Our Merch Store! https://www.etsy.com/shop/VOXOLOGY?ref=shop_sugg_market Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

The Way Through the Deep Dark | Psalm 42:6–8“My soul is cast down within me… Deep calls to deep at the roar of your waterfalls.” — Psalm 42:6–7There are moments in life when everything stops.Loss. Heartbreak. Death. Divorce. The collapse of something you thought would last forever.Psalm 42 speaks directly into those seasons—the deep dark places of the soul where pain isn't surface-level but goes all the way down. In this message, Pastor CJ Witkoe explores how the psalmist navigates overwhelming grief and spiritual darkness and discovers a powerful truth:Our deep souls need a deep God.Through vivid imagery of raging waterfalls, crashing waves, and the depths of the ocean, Psalm 42 reveals that the storms we face are not outside of God's control—they are His waves and His breakers, and they are held under His authority.In this message, you'll discover:

In Part 4 of The Lord's Prayer series, Pastor Terrell explores Jesus' instruction to pray, “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” While many of our prayers focus on what we want or need, Jesus teaches that prayer is ultimately about aligning our hearts with God's purposes. Praying for God's Kingdom means inviting His rule and priorities into every area of our lives—our relationships, decisions, and future. It shifts our focus from temporary comforts to eternal impact and reminds us that what matters to God should matter to us.The message also highlights the difference between God's revealed will, which we discover through Scripture and obedience, and His hidden will, which unfolds in His timing even when we don't understand it. True surrender means being willing to say, like Jesus in Gethsemane, “Not my will, but yours be done.” When we stop trying to build our own kingdom and instead trust God with our lives, we find peace, purpose, and the security of living inside the will of God.

Jesus's prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane reveals how his honest struggle and faithful surrender show us how to navigate our darkest moments. Through Jesus's example of prayer, patience, and trust in the Father's will, we learn that seeing in the dark means recognizing our weakness while trusting God's promises more than our current circumstances.Series Summary: The religious leaders at the cross hurled a challenge at Jesus: “Let this Messiah, this King of Israel, come down now from the cross, that we may see and believe.” They demanded proof before faith. But the Gospel of Mark, especially in its story of the Passion, invites us into a different reality: believing in order to see. From the anointing at Bethany to the silent emptiness of the tomb, Jesus' journey subverts our expectations. The one hailed as king is crowned with thorns. The one with power to calm storms submits to arrest. The consistent, sure thread through the chaos is his Word. As the angel at the tomb reminded the trembling women, “He is going ahead of you…just as he told you.” As we study through Mark's Passion, we are invited to follow Jesus—not by sight, but by faith in his sure and leading Word.Add St. Marcus as your church on the Church Center App!Fill out our online connection cardHow can we pray for you? If you'd like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here.

Dramatic irony is when the audience clearly understands something the characters in the book, play or movie do not. We say or think things like, “Don't open that door!” "Don't get on that plane!” “He's not who he says he is!" We have a fair amount of dramatic irony at play in Luke 22:47-65. No matter how many times I read about Jesus' betrayal and denial, or see it depicted in a movie or a TV show, it never gets any easier. There's some part of me that wants to yell at the characters, “Don't do it!” Or warn Jesus, “It's a trap!”But there's more going on here other than just a series of moral failures. Even in the Garden of Gethsemane, there's incredible Good News in view! Can you see it? If not, relax your focus and we'll look at it together this Sunday.

Because Jesus brings us with him into his prayer of submission, we must entrust our honest desires to the Father rather than withholding them or insisting on our own way. Mark 14:32–36 (ESV): 32 And they went to a place called Gethsemane. And he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” 33 And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. 34 And he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch.” 35 And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. 36 And he said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”

As we continue studying the Gospel of Mark, this Sunday we will pick up where we left off in chapter 14—the chaotic night of Jesus' arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. After Jesus transformed the Passover meal and told the disciples that one would betray Him, Jesus foretold that all the disciples would abandon Him. The disciples adamantly objected, saying they would rather die than fall away (v. 31). Knowing their weakness, Jesus commanded them to watch and pray—depend on the Lord—so they do not enter into temptation (v. 38). Jesus Himself prayed earnestly to His Father as He faced the wrath of God for sin. In Mark 14:43-52, we will witness the moment everyone runs away while Jesus stands alone to face the cross. In this passage, nothing is what it seems: betrayal comes disguised as a kiss of love, faithlessness looks like bold courage, true strength appears as weakness, and abandonment feels like the only option for survival. Through all the chaos, Jesus remains perfectly obedient to the Father, drinking the cup of wrath for our sin so that weak, failing people like us would be saved. In this passage, there is only one who is strong and faithful, and He did this for us. I. When Betrayal Looks Like Love (v. 43-46) II. When Faithlessness Looks Like Courage (v. 47) III. When Strength Looks Like Weakness (v. 48-49) IV. When Abandonment Looks Like The Only Hope (50-52)

Title: What Weapon Are You Reaching For?Scripture Reading: Acts 4:23-31Series: Be Bold!When being bold for Christ backs you into a corner, what weapon are you reaching for? Following the release of Peter and John from the temple council, the early church provides a masterclass in responding to opposition. This message explores the 'weapon' of prayer through the P.R.A.Y. acronym, beginning with the need to Partner with other believers to overcome isolation and fear. We are encouraged to Recite God's Word back to Him in our petitions, which allows us to appeal to the highest authority and claim His promises. A vital part of the Christian walk is to Anticipate opposition, understanding that the cost of discipleship is part of the calling. Finally, we must Yield to the Holy Spirit, recognizing that true boldness is not a product of human willpower but a gift from Jesus, who modeled perfect prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane. 

Matthew 26:30-56 | 8 March 2026

Welcome to Day 2812 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2812 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 118:10-18 – Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2812 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2812 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. The Title for Today's Wisdom-Trek is: Surrounded but Secure – The Strong Right Arm of the Lord. In our previous episode, we took our first steps into the magnificent landscape of Psalm One Hundred Eighteen, focusing on verses one through nine. We heard the massive, joyful choir of Israel, the priests, and all who fear the Lord, declaring that His faithful love endures forever. We also listened to the deeply personal testimony of a leader who was trapped in a narrow, suffocating place, but who was miraculously rescued, and brought into the wide-open spaces of God's grace. That powerful realization led us to conclude that it is infinitely better to take refuge in the Lord, than to put our trust in earthly princes. Today, we are moving forward on our trail, trekking through the second movement of this grand, festive song. We will be exploring Psalm One Hundred Eighteen, verses ten through eighteen, in the New Living Translation. As we open our Bibles, we must keep the historical and theological setting firmly in our minds. This is the very climax of the Egyptian Hallel, the collection of psalms sung during the Passover. These are the very words that echoed in the mind of Jesus Christ, as He left the Upper Room, and walked into the dark, terrifying olive grove of Gethsemane. He knew that He was about to be surrounded by hostile forces, both human and spiritual. Yet, He sang this psalm of absolute, unshakable victory. In these verses, the psalmist paints a vivid, almost overwhelming picture of being entirely encircled by enemies. But instead of despair, we hear a drumbeat of triumph. We witness the cosmic authority of Yahweh, the mighty power of His right arm, and the profound paradox of facing severe discipline, yet being spared from death. Let us lean in, and listen to the battle cry of the redeemed. Psalm One Hundred Eighteen: verses ten through twelve. Though hostile nations surrounded me, I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord. Yes, they surrounded and attacked me, but I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord. They swarmed around me like bees; they blazed against me like a crackling fire. But I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord. The imagery here is intense, claustrophobic, and highly kinetic. The psalmist says, three separate times, that he was "surrounded." He was completely encircled, with no natural means of escape. But notice who is surrounding him: "hostile nations." To truly understand the weight of this, we must put on our Ancient Israelite, Divine Council worldview lenses, as taught by Dr. Michael S. Heiser. In the ancient world, a conflict between nations was never merely a political dispute; it was a cosmic battle. According to Deuteronomy Chapter Thirty-Two, verses eight and nine, the nations of the world had been disinherited by Yahweh at the Tower of Babel, and placed under the authority of lesser, rebel spiritual beings. Israel, however, remained Yahweh's personal portion. Therefore, when the "hostile nations" surround the Israelite king, this is a coordinated attack by the dark, spiritual principalities of the unseen world. They are attempting to snuff out the light of God's kingdom on earth. The psalmist uses two vivid, terrifying metaphors to describe this onslaught. First, he says, "They swarmed around me like bees." If you have ever accidentally disturbed a beehive, you know the absolute, blinding panic of that moment. Bees attack from every possible angle; they are relentless, chaotic, and their stings produce compounding agony. Second, he says, "They blazed against me like a crackling fire." In the original Hebrew, this is specifically described as a fire of thornbushes. Dry thorns burn with incredible, explosive heat, and a blinding, intimidating flash. But what happens to a fire of thorns? It flashes hot, it makes a lot of terrifying noise, but it burns out almost instantly. It has no lasting fuel. This is exactly how the psalmist views the hostile, demonic forces of the world. They swarm, they sting, and they blaze with intimidating fury. But they have no staying power against the Creator. Three times, the psalmist responds to the threat with a rhythmic, defiant battle cry: "I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord." Literally, the Hebrew text says, "In the Name of Yahweh, I cut them off." He does not rely on his own military strategy, his own armor, or his own physical prowess. He wields the Name of the Most High God. When Jesus faced the cross, He was swarmed by the hostility of Rome, the religious leaders, and the rebel spirits of the unseen realm. Yet, through His willing sacrifice, He wielded the authority of the Lord, cutting off the power of sin and death forever. Psalm One Hundred Eighteen: verses thirteen through fourteen. My enemies did their best to kill me, but the Lord rescued me. The Lord is my strength and my song; he has given me victory. The psalmist moves from the broad, chaotic swarm of the nations, to a deeply personal, targeted attack. "My enemies did their best to kill me." The literal translation is incredibly violent: "You pushed me violently, so that I was falling." He is speaking directly to the adversary, acknowledging the sheer, brute force of the assault. He was pushed to the very brink; he was teetering on the edge of the precipice. "But the Lord rescued me." Yahweh reached out His hand, caught His servant mid-fall, and pulled him back from the edge of the abyss. Verse fourteen is a direct, deliberate quotation of an older, highly famous song. "The Lord is my strength and my song; he has given me victory." These are the exact words sung by Moses and the Israelites on the shores of the Red Sea, in Exodus Chapter Fifteen, verse two, right after God drowned the Egyptian army. By quoting the Song of the Sea, the psalmist connects his present, personal deliverance to the great, historical deliverance of the Exodus. Because this is the Passover festival, the connection is absolutely brilliant. The God who split the sea, and crushed the Egyptian gods, is the exact same God who catches you when the enemy pushes you over the edge. He is our strength when we are weak; He is our song when we have lost our voice; and He is our ultimate, eternal salvation. Psalm One Hundred Eighteen: verses fifteen through sixteen. Songs of joy and victory are sung in the camp of the godly. The strong right arm of the Lord has done glorious things! The strong right arm of the Lord is raised in triumph. The strong right arm of the Lord has done glorious things! The scene shifts from the lonely, personal battlefield, to the vibrant, joyful encampment of the righteous. Imagine walking through the tents of the Israelites. You do not hear the moans of the defeated, or the fearful whispers of the oppressed. You hear the deafening, celebratory roar of victory. And what is the lyric of their song? They are singing about the "strong right arm of the Lord." In biblical poetry, the "right arm" or "right hand" is a powerful anthropomorphism—a way of describing God's invisible attributes using human physical terms. The right arm represents kinetic energy, military might, and decisive, executing authority. It is the hand that holds the sword; it is the arm that shatters the enemy. Three times, the congregation sings about this mighty arm. It has "done glorious things." It is "raised in triumph." This is a picture of the Divine Warrior, standing victorious on the cosmic battlefield, His arm lifted high, signaling to the entire universe that the forces of chaos have been decisively crushed. When the early church looked back at the resurrection of Jesus Christ, they realized they were witnessing the ultimate manifestation of the strong right arm of the Lord. God reached down into the grave, shattered the gates of death, and raised His Son in triumph, securing eternal victory for the camp of the godly. Psalm One Hundred Eighteen: verses seventeen through eighteen. I will not die; instead, I will live to tell what the Lord has done. The Lord has punished me severely, but he did not let me die. We conclude today's trek with a profoundly moving, and incredibly honest, declaration. The psalmist has survived the swarm. He has been caught from the fall. He has heard the victory song in the camp. And now, he makes a solemn vow regarding his future. "I will not die; instead, I will live." This is not just a biological...

And they went to a place called Gethsemane. And [Jesus …] took with Him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. And He said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch.” And going a little farther, He fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Remove this cup from Me. Yet not what I will, but what You will.” (Mark 14:32a, 33-36)

Introduction: Jonah’s Disobedience The message is not just for the regular attendees but for anyone who will hear it. Example: Brother Mickey Roddy mentioned family members in two different states listening to the service online. The message serves as a reminder and a warning, urging listeners to get right with God. The sermon’s title is “Down to Joppa.” Understanding the geography is crucial to understanding Jonah’s situation. Jonah lived in Gethsemane, near Jerusalem and the temple. Jonah decided to leave the presence of the Lord, which is a terrifying prospect. Pastor Tommy emphasizes the importance of God’s presence and the fear of being without it. Pastor Tommy acknowledges personal struggles to stay right with God. Jonah’s Decision to Flee Deciding to walk away from the presence of the Lord is the worst decision one can make. The presence of the Lord is constant and provides guidance. Jonah lived close to Jerusalem, near the Mediterranean Sea. Nineveh was about 500-550 miles northeast of Jerusalem, a three-day journey (60 miles) within the city. Jonah chose to flee to Joppa (about 50 miles away) to get a boat instead of going to Nineveh. The devil can convince people to flee from God’s presence. The Consequences of Leaving God’s Presence Leaving the presence of the Lord opens one’s life to negative experiences. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of a living God. There will be times when one must decide to stand for God, even if it’s difficult. One can never truly get away from God. When standing with God, His presence guides forward. Fleeing from God involves leaving behind the church, God’s people, and family. The devil can interrupt one’s whole life after turning away from God. Many people have gone down to Joppa and found it empty and sinful. Even on a boat, one cannot escape God’s presence. Jonah’s Motivation and the Inevitability of God’s Presence Jonah didn’t like Nineveh or the Assyrians and thought they would be spared if he preached to them. Turning against God’s will requires prayer and introspection. God wants people to stay in His presence. Joppa was a short journey away, but Jonah’s decision led him to go further down. Jonah paid for a boat to Tarshish, 2,500 miles away in Spain, thinking he could escape God’s commission. Turning one’s back on God leads to a downward path with no remedy or mercy. It’s important to stay in the presence of the Lord. The Downward Spiral and the Storm Pastor Tommy knows people who have left the presence of the Lord and sought other solutions. Flesh is inclined to run from God. Leaving God leads to paying the price to ride the devil’s boat. Jonah went down into the boat, trying to hide, but God knows everyone’s direction. The Lord sent a great wind and tempest, exposing those who leave His presence to life’s storms without comfort. The presence of the Lord is worth more than anything. Even in storms, Jesus can calm them. Spiritual Sleep and Divine Intervention Many people are spiritually asleep, trying to forget God and their past fellowship. Storms will wake them up. Jonah fell asleep, but the men on the boat cast lots to find the cause of the storm, and the lot fell on Jonah. King David’s story is referenced as an example of straying from God’s presence and facing consequences. David stayed home instead of going to battle. He committed adultery with Bathsheba and had her husband killed. The prophet Nathan confronted David with a story, revealing his sin. One cannot escape the presence of the Lord, who will open their eyes. Jonah’s Confession and the Whale Jonah confessed that he was the reason for the storm. Honesty about sins is crucial. Jonah suggested being thrown overboard to stop the storm, hoping to escape God. God can take away the hope of death. Turning back to where one left God is necessary for improvement. God prepared a great fish (whale) to swallow Jonah. There is always a lower point than one imagines. In the house of God, there is firm footing. The Depths of Despair and the Cry for Help Jonah went to the bottom of the mountains, feeling trapped in the belly of hell. Jesus believed the story of Jonah. Jonah cried out from the belly of hell due to his affliction. It all started when he walked away from the presence of the Lord. People walk away from God for far less. One doesn’t know how far down it is when they leave God’s presence. Jonah thought he would be in the fish’s belly forever. Tears of affliction and sorrow will come when one goes away from God. Turning Back to God Jonah realized God wasn’t giving up on him and would keep him alive in the whale’s belly as long as he was rebellious. He decided to look toward God’s holy temple. God began to move in Jonah’s life when Jonah began to seek God again. One can be in church and still run from the presence of the Lord. There is a father for the child of God. Lost people come to church and then go back to their old ways because they never got changed. How can someone who has experienced the presence of God decide to run from that? The flesh is more powerful than one thinks. Jonah was in a bad spot when he began to look up. Then he was brought up. His prayer went up. He got prayed up. One needs to do business with God to get back on the right track. Turn around, look up, pray up, get ready, and start calling on God. He’ll start lifting you out of where you’re at. Jonah got prayed up in the belly of the whale. Repentance and Restoration Jonah was willing to sacrifice, finally willing to do what God said. The worst thing one can do is turn their back on God. One’s life will crash and end in a nasty mess. God never let Jonah out until he got right. One won’t get out from under the hand of God until they get right if they are His. Jonah got spit up. Jonah was spit out near Jerusalem, back where he started. Jonah still had the same journey to Nineveh that he had when he left. He was just many days behind. Final Exhortations and Conclusion Do not turn your back on the presence of the Lord. It will cost you more, and you will regret it. One doesn’t have to go that way. Jonah hit the ground running and had to go 500 miles. Jonah preached, and the people repented. God had mercy on him and spared that great city. The message is for those who are going down to Joppa. They need to recognize that they have to get out of there and get back to God. They cannot continue on this downward path away from the presence. The book of Jonah is a sad story, but it doesn’t have to be your story. All may have a Jonah-like experience. One may end up in a spot that they can’t get out of. They will have to reckon with God in the end. Get right with God tonight. Let God teach what’s He. Get right with Him and quit going down that wrong and downward path. Flee to Him. Obey God. He’ll make all the difference in your life.

Welcome to Day 2810 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2810 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 118:1-9 – Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2810 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2810 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. The title for today's Wisdom-Trek is: The Eternal Refuge – Stepping into the Wide-Open Spaces In our previous trek, we stood on the mountaintop of Psalm One Hundred Seventeen. We explored the shortest chapter in the entire Bible, and yet, we saw how it held the largest possible stage. It was a cosmic megaphone, calling all the disinherited nations, and all the diverse people groups of the earth, to return to their Creator. It reminded us that God's unfailing love is a prevailing flood, capable of washing over every cultural and geographical boundary. Today, we take our next momentous step. We are crossing the threshold into Psalm One Hundred Eighteen, and we will be focusing our attention on the first movement of this incredible song, covering verses one through nine, in the New Living Translation. This is a milestone moment in our journey. Psalm One Hundred Eighteen is the grand finale, the sweeping crescendo, of the Egyptian Hallel. This is the very last of the Passover psalms. When you picture Jesus and His disciples in the Upper Room, finishing the Last Supper, the Gospel of Matthew tells us that they sang a hymn before heading out to the Mount of Olives. This was that hymn. These were the very words that filled the mind of the Messiah, as He walked deliberately toward the darkness of Gethsemane, and the agony of the cross. As we read this psalm, we hear the sound of a massive, festive procession. We hear a worship leader crying out to the congregation, and we hear a deeply personal testimony of a leader who was surrounded by enemies, yet rescued by the overwhelming power of Yahweh. So, let us join the procession, and listen to the opening chorus. The first segment is: The Chorus of Unfailing Love. Psalm One Hundred Eighteen: verses one through four. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. Let all Israel repeat: "His faithful love endures forever." Let Aaron's descendants, the priests, repeat: "His faithful love endures forever." Let all who fear the Lord repeat: "His faithful love endures forever." The psalm erupts with a joyful, booming command: "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!" But this is not just a solo performance. The worship leader is actively conducting a massive, multi-part choir, stationed within the temple courts. He calls out to three specific, distinct groups, demanding that they lift their voices and repeat the core thesis of the entire biblical narrative: "His faithful love endures forever." If this grouping sounds familiar, it should! We saw this exact same three-part division back in Psalm One Hundred Fifteen. First, the leader calls out to all Israel. These are the covenant people, the physical descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. They are the ones who experienced the Exodus, the parting of the Red Sea, and the provision of manna in the wilderness. They, of all people, have the historical evidence to shout that God's faithful love endures. Next, he turns to Aaron's descendants, the priests. These are the spiritual leaders, the men who mediated between the holy God and the flawed nation. They worked the sacrifices; they saw the blood on the altar. They understood, intimately, the cost of forgiveness. They are commanded to publicly declare that the sacrificial system is upheld not by mechanics, but by God's enduring love. Finally, the leader casts a wide net to all who fear the Lord. This encompasses the Gentile converts, the foreigners, and the strangers from those diverse nations we talked about in Psalm One Hundred Seventeen. God's love is not geographically restricted. If you fear Yahweh, if you revere the Creator of the universe, you are invited into the choir. You are given a voice in the congregation. And what is the lyric they are all singing? It is the Hebrew word Hesed. This is God's loyal, stubborn, covenant-keeping affection. It is a love that does not quit when we fail. It is a love that outlasts empires, survives the darkness of the grave, and, as the psalm says, "endures forever." When Jesus walked toward the cross, He was holding onto this exact promise. The physical pain would be temporary, but the Hesed of the Father would be eternal. The second segment is: The Cry from the Narrow Place. Psalm One Hundred Eighteen: verse five. In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and set me free. Suddenly, the perspective shifts. The sweeping, panoramic view of the massive choir fades into the background, and a single, solitary voice steps up to the microphone. The worship leader—perhaps the King, or perhaps a representation of the Messiah—shares a deeply personal testimony. "In my distress, I prayed to the Lord." The Hebrew word translated as "distress" is metsar. It literally means a narrow, tight, or constricted place. It paints a vivid, suffocating picture. Have you ever felt trapped? Have you ever felt like the walls of your life—your finances, your health, your relationships—were closing in on you, squeezing the very breath out of your lungs? That is the metsar. It is the spiritual claustrophobia of a crisis. The psalmist was pushed into a corner with no human escape route. But in that tight, suffocating space, he did the only thing left to do. He prayed. He cried out to Yahweh. And the response of God is breathtaking: "The Lord answered me and set me free." The literal Hebrew translation is incredibly poetic. It says, "The Lord answered me in a broad place," or "in a spacious place." God did not just pluck him out of the tight squeeze; God completely changed his environment. He moved him from the suffocating, narrow gorge of distress, and planted his feet in a wide, expansive, sunlit meadow of freedom. This is what Yahweh does. He takes our claustrophobic anxieties and replaces them with the wide-open spaces of His grace. He gives us room to breathe again. The third segment is: The Fearless Stance of the Redeemed. Psalm One Hundred Eighteen: verses six through seven. The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me? Yes, the Lord is for me; he will help me. I will look in triumph at those who hate me. Because the psalmist has experienced this miraculous transfer from the narrow place to the spacious place, his entire psychological posture has changed. He stands tall, squares his shoulders, and makes a bold, defiant declaration: "The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear." This is the ultimate antidote to anxiety. If the Maker of heaven and earth, the Commander of the Divine Council, is actively standing on your side, fear becomes logically obsolete. He asks a rhetorical question: "What can mere people do to me?" When we look at this through the lens of the Ancient Israelite worldview, we understand that "mere people" are often pawns. Behind hostile human armies and corrupt human politicians, there are often dark, rebellious spiritual forces at work. The psalmist knows that he is not just fighting flesh and blood. But even so, if the Most High God—the uncreated Creator—is his helper, then the rebel gods and their human puppets are entirely powerless to change his eternal destiny. "What can mere people do to me?" They might insult me. They might steal my property. They might even, as Jesus knew, destroy my physical body. But they cannot touch my soul, and they cannot alter the enduring, forever nature of God's Hesed toward me. He repeats the truth to let it sink in deep: "Yes, the Lord is for me; he will help me." The word for "help" here means to actively assist in battle. God is not a passive observer; He is a fellow warrior in the trenches. Because of this divine alliance, the psalmist is certain of the outcome: "I will look in triumph at those who hate me." He doesn't say he will seek bitter, petty revenge. He says he will look in triumph. He will stand in the wide-open space of God's deliverance, and he will see the hostile, chaotic forces of his enemies completely neutralized. The Fourth Segment is: The Superiority of the Divine Refuge. Psalm One Hundred Eighteen: verses eight through nine. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in people. It is better to take refuge in the...

When John describes the "Garden of Gethsemane" he does so from a vantage point that is very different from the other three Gospels. He shows us how Jesus is the Victorious King fully in charge of what is going on. He is the only Gospel writer to speak of the Brook Kidron, to speak of a garden, to speak of the detachment of troops falling to the ground at the word of Jesus, and He is the only Gospel writer to name Peter as the one who cut off Malchus' ear. The lessons we learn from John 18 are very deep and constantly relevant. Jesus intentionally went to the garden and willingly gave Himself over the arresting party.

Are you having a Lenty Lent? It may feel like your failing or things are going wrong, but maybe you are right where the Lord wants you. Its just a bit of pain from the composting process of our souls.  Lent is not a gloomy interruption of life. It is the Church handing us winter on purpose.   In the garden, winter strips everything down. The bright flowers are gone. The branches look skeletal. You walk outside and think, Nothing is happening here.   But beneath the surface, roots are deepening. The soil is being replenished. Worms are turning what fell and died into nourishment. What looks like stillness is actually preparation.   Lent does the same.   It takes away the noise. It asks us to fast. To sit in silence. To feel our hunger instead of numbing it. To look honestly at what needs pruning in our lives. And at first it feels like a loss. Like grey skies feel to me today. Like not being able to see more than a few feet in front of you.   But Lent is not about deprivation for its own sake. It is about increasing capacity. Uniting ourselves to Christ in his passion. Praying in the garden of Gethsemane. Facing Calvery.    When you prune a plant, you cut away what once looked fruitful. You remove even good branches so that better fruit can grow. That is uncomfortable. It feels like diminishment. But the gardener is thinking ahead to spring.   And the compost pile is not a symbol of failure. It is where the old life breaks down so it can become nourishment for new life. In the spiritual life, our disappointments, our faliures, our surrendered dreams, even our grief, none of it is wasted. Given to God, it becomes rich soil.   Lent is when we allow that decomposition to happen.    We stop clinging. We let attachments die. We allow deeper parts of the heart to awaken. The grey days reveal what the bright days sometimes hide. They show us how much we depend on consolation instead of God Himself.   And then Easter comes.   Not as a surprise, but as fulfillment. The buds that appear are not random. They are the result of hidden work. The joy feels fuller because we remember the winter. The Alleluia sounds louder because we walked through the silence.   Spring does not erase Lent. It proves it was necessary.   I'm trying to die to myself and give God my fiat. This Lent I'm also saying "I am the handmade of the Lord, be it done unto me according to your word". I'm surrendering myself to the hands of the Gardener.   And I pray for patience while the compost of my soul continues decomposing, I remind myself  that growth cannot be rushed. His ways are not my ways. But I trust and surrender.    The Gardener knows when to prune. He knows when to wait. He knows when to bring the sun.   And even when you can only see three feet in front of you, the roots are going deeper than you realize.

Ben Schilaty, a former BYU Honor Code administrator, is a social work professor and author who discusses his life as a gay Latter-day Saint. He details his professional background, and his current work with the Gather Conference. Schilaty shares his personal faith journey, explaining how he reconciles his sexual orientation with his commitment to the Church through prayer and personal revelation. He advocates for radical empathy and honoring the individual agency of LGBTQ members, whether they choose to stay in or leave the faith. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of sincere listening and building supportive communities where diverse experiences are validated. https://youtu.be/EzjYxEAfsYs Don’t miss our other LDS Faith Journeys: https://gospeltangents.com/tag/lds-faith-journeys/ Ben Schilaty: Navigating Faith and Identity Ben Schilaty is a professor of social work at Utah Valley University and author of A Walk in My Shoes. He shared a deeply personal look at his life as a gay Latter-day Saint. Schilaty, who humorously describes himself as “fame-ish” due to the parasocial relationships readers and listeners have formed with him, offers a unique perspective on the intersection of faith, identity, and belonging. Journey of Three Stages Ben describes his internal journey in three distinct phases. In his 20s, he felt “broken” and believed he needed to be “fixed” to fit the mold of a traditional Latter-day Saint marriage. In his early 30s, the pendulum swung, and he felt that if he couldn’t change, perhaps the Church had to change. Today, he focuses on “living in what is,” a practice of accepting reality as it is to find health and happiness. A pivotal moment in this journey occurred when Ben nearly left the Church after a painful heartbreak. Despite his parents' full support and their promise to honor his agency regardless of his choice, a prayerful encounter with Matthew 26 changed his path. Reflecting on Christ's prayer in Gethsemane, Ben felt a “clear and very annoying prompting” that his “cup” was to live his life within the teachings of the Church—a choice that transformed his religious practice from a burden into something life-giving. BYU Honor Code Providing a rare look into his four years as an Honor Code administrator at BYU, Ben dispels common myths about the office. While many assume the office is preoccupied with “morality” or LGBTQ+ issues, Ben notes that same-sex romantic behavior reports were uncommon, occurring only about ten times a year. Instead, the vast majority of his work involved academic dishonesty, plagiarism, and timecard theft. Building Bridges: The Gather Conference Ben is a co-founder of the Gather conference, a Christ-centered support system for LGBTQ+ Latter-day Saints and their allies. He describes it as a “middle space” compared to other organizations like Affirmation or Northstar. Gather serves a diverse group—about 80-90% of whom are active in the Church—including those in same-sex marriages, those choosing celibacy, and parents or leaders seeking to understand their loved ones better. Radical Acceptance and the Power of Story A major theme of the discussion was radical acceptance and honoring the agency of others. Ben emphasizes that: Listening is a Christlike act: Allies should listen to and validate the pain of those who feel they must leave the Church for their mental health. Forgiveness brings peace: Ben shared a powerful story of inviting a former Stake President over for dinner to find personal peace after a disagreement regarding his temple recommend. Prescription for Revelation: He warns against using his story as a “blueprint” for others, noting that God speaks to us as individuals and we each have our own “prescription” for personal revelation. Ben’s final invitation to the audience is simple: instead of just reading his book or listening to his podcast, invite the LGBTQ+ people in your own life to tell you their stories. What do you think of Ben's experience as an active, gay Latter-day Saint? 0:00 Introduction/Background 1:58 Faith and Identity 3:11 Turning Point and Parental Support 6:36 Supporting LGBTQ Members Who Leave 14:01 BYU Honor Code Office16:11 Religious Policy and Universal Standards 20:00 Celestial Kingdom Questions and Future Doctrine 34:28 Elder Clark Gilbert’s Call 39:10 Radical Acceptance and Social Work Philosophy 41:07 Gather Conference and Support Organizations 46:36 Accusations of Complicity 49:48 Social Work Training and Church History 54:22 Listening to Individual Stories Check out LDS Faith Journeys website.

Caleb Drahosh As Jesus enters Gethsemane, the hour of His death is near. He tells His disciples to sit and pray, and takes Peter, James, and John into the garden further. There He tells them to watch. They fall asleep. He tells them to watch again. They fall asleep again. The time is now. Judas came with a crowd to arrest Jesus. The shepherd is stuck and the sheep scatter. Often our intent is to follow Jesus, but our flesh desires comfort and when difficulty comes, we respond wrongly.

In Week 1 of The Way of the Cross, we begin not at the empty tomb, but in the Garden of Gethsemane. While we're often tempted to rush toward resurrection, Jesus invites us to slow down and sit with surrender—because the path to victory begins in the dark. In the garden, where humanity once grasped for control, Jesus prays, "Not My will, but Yours be done," showing us that real faith is forged not in resolution but in trust. As we walk this journey together, we're reminded that resurrection doesn't bypass suffering—and that God often does His deepest work in yielded hearts.

On the night he was betrayed and abandoned, Jesus entered the deepest loneliness imaginable—trusting the Father, fulfilling Scripture, and standing alone so that we would never ultimately have to be.

What does it look like to find real joy in the middle of suffering? In this sermon from our series "Invitation to Joy," we explore Philippians 1:27–29 and discover that biblical joy isn't the absence of pain, it's the presence of trust. Using the analogy of running a half marathon, we unpack how seeing the finish line changes the way we endure. The Apostle Paul, writing from a Roman prison, teaches the church at Philippi three powerful truths: joy is durable and anchored in our citizenship in God's kingdom, joy is formed through resistance and purposeful suffering, and joy becomes courageous communion when believers stand firm together. We also look at how Jesus modeled this in the Garden of Gethsemane: naming His pain, surrendering to the Father, and enduring the cross for the joy set before Him. Whether you're walking through a hard season, struggling with loss, or feeling isolated, this message is a reminder that suffering with purpose produces something deeper than comfort ever could.0:00 Introduction — Running the Richmond Half Marathon2:56 When the Finish Line Changes Everything4:17 Paul's Letter from Prison — Suffering as a Gift5:16 Joy Is Durable — Whatever Happens7:04 Conduct Yourself as a Citizen of Heaven9:30 Your Primary Citizenship Is the Kingdom of God11:29 Comfort-Based Joy vs. Kingdom Joy13:18 Joy Is Formed Through Resistance15:07 Suffering and Meaningful Goals17:19 We Don't Suffer for Suffering's Sake18:52 Planting a Church and Choosing Discomfort20:03 The Problem with Sin — False Promises of Comfort21:58 Fasting, Lent, and Spiritual Training23:19 Small Sufferings Build Spiritual Muscles24:35 Joy Becomes Courageous Communion27:08 You Never Suffer Alone28:01 Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane29:24 For the Joy Set Before Him — Enduring the Cross30:10 Joy Is Not the Absence of Suffering31:32 Prayer and Leaning into the Holy Spirit34:40 Joy Is Coming — Weeping May Last for a Night35:21 Closing PrayerSupport the showMade a decision to follow Jesus? We want to know about it! Fill out our connect card here: https://local.churchcenter.com/people/forms/115766Thank you for your generosity. For information on how to give, visit https://localvineyard.church/give.

At What Point Should I Just Stop Praying? | Christ For YouText: Matthew 15:21–28 | Lent 2 (Historic One-Year Lectionary)What do you do when nothing changes, when your prayers go unanswered? When God feels silent, do you assume silence means “no”? Do you quit hoping and call it “being reasonable”?This Gospel puts you in the middle: a Canaanite woman cries for mercy, and Jesus does not answer her a word. The Law exposes us. We don't just want answers, we want control. We want God on our timeline, and when He delays, we start translating delay into indifference.But faith refuses to turn silence into a verdict. She comes closer, kneels, and prays, “Lord, help me.” She confesses she deserves nothing and still clings to Christ: “Even the dogs eat the crumbs.” Even “unanswered” prayers are still heard by God. His silence is not His absence.Then the Gospel: look to Jesus in Gethsemane. The Father does not remove the cup. The answer is the cross, for you. Jesus bears the forsakenness you deserve so you can pray “Our Father” with confidence. All God's promises find their “Yes” in Him (2 Corinthians 1:20). So stay at Jesus' feet, and keep praying.Subscribe & Share:Spotify: Christ For YouPortuguês: Cristo Para VocêWebsite: ZionWG.orgLooking for a Lutheran Church near you?Support the preaching of God's Word

Matthew 25's parable of the ten virgins teaches that faithful waiting for Christ means cultivating a personal life of prayer that cannot be borrowed or sustained by others. Through the example of Jesus in Gethsemane, we are invited into persevering, surrendered prayer that forms our hearts, keeps our spiritual lamps burning, and prepares us to remain faithful even in the long wait.

This Sunday, as we continue in Mark 14:27–42, we explore Jesus and His disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane. After the Last Supper, where Jesus established the New Covenant meal and predicted His betrayal, they travel to the Mount of Olives. There, Jesus openly states that all His disciples will fall away when He, the Good Shepherd, is struck—fulfilling Zechariah's prophecy—but He quickly promises that after His resurrection, He will go ahead of them to Galilee. Their weakness and failure cannot prevent the coming Kingdom. Still, Peter and the other disciples deny Jesus' words. First Peter, then all the disciples, insist they will never abandon Him, though Jesus knows their weakness better than they do. In the garden, Jesus is deeply distressed, facing the cup of divine wrath for sin that no one else could bear. Meanwhile, the disciples repeatedly fall asleep, unable to watch and pray for even an hour. Jesus returns to them three times, gently revealing their weakness and urging them to watch and pray to avoid temptation. Jesus teaches a vital gospel truth often forgotten: our complete dependence on Christ for salvation is also essential for living the Christian life. We are not strong enough to obey, resist temptation, or grow in holiness on our own. Jesus alone obeyed perfectly through dependent submission to the Father, drinking the cup we deserved, so we can daily rely on Him with cries of “Not my will, but Yours be done.” The growing Christian life is not the one with the greatest resolve or determination; it is the one that is most dependent. His command to watch and pray acknowledges that, although our spirit may be willing, our flesh is weak. I. Jesus Knows Our Weakness Better Than We (27-31) II. Jesus Suffered In Dependent Obedience in Our Place (32-36) III. Jesus Commands Dependence In Our Weakness (37-41)

Continue the series with “Failing Faith,” a powerful and honest sermon from Mark 14:26–52. Pastor Ricky Smithwalks through Peter's denial, the disciples' weakness, and Jesus' agony in Gethsemane—revealing the contrast between fragile human promises and Christ's unwavering obedience. This message reminds us that while our faith may falter, Jesus never fails.View the worship guide for this sermon here:https://calvaryga.com/the-end-of-the-beginning-week-9/

Wehave already spoken about the soldier on his knees, breathing out prayers. Thespiritual breath of the believer is prayer. In contrast, the breath of thewicked person in Proverbs is lies. This does not mean that we are alwaystalking in prayer. Jesus even warned about vain repetitions in prayers in Matthew6:7. No, He is speaking of constantly having communion with the Lord—living inthe awareness of His presence. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.I believe the fear of the Lord is a constant, continual awareness of the Lord'spresence. It means you never have to say, “Lord, we come into Your presence,”because you are already in His presence. Topray always means that we take His hand in the light as we read His Word in themorning. We open our hearts in prayer, asking Him for grace, help, mercy, andstrength for the day. As we do that, we keep hold of His hand. I have told youbefore about a dear older lady in our church. She did not have the mostbeautiful voice, but she was a godly woman who could share the good news ofChrist in a powerful way through her songs. I will never forget what she saidone time: “If you take the hand of the Lord in the light, when it gets dark youdon't have to look for it.” That is continuing instant in prayer. That ispraying always. Topray always means that when you are tempted, you ask for help. I wouldencourage you to study James 1 very carefully, especially if you are dealingwith temptations and trials. If you do not know which way to go, if you needwisdom, then pray for wisdom. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask ofGod, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall begiven him” (James 1:5). God gives generously and does not hold back. Whenyou are blessed, you give thanks. You open your heart and acknowledge that “everygood gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Fatherof lights” (James 1:17). When you see evil, you pray for righteousness. Youflee from evil and pray that you will continue to walk in the righteousness ofJesus Christ. When you meet someone who is lost, you pray for their salvationand for wisdom to be a witness to them.Ithink about the disciples. They observed the Lord praying. They saw Himwithdraw to solitary places to pray. On one occasion they said, “Lord, teachus to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” That request is recorded inLuke 11. The Lord then began to teach them how to pray. My friend, I never readwhere the disciples said, “Lord, teach us how to preach. Teach us how towitness. Teach us how to heal. Teach us how to perform miracles. Teach us howto speak in tongues.” They never asked for those things. But they did say, “Lord,teach us to pray.” In essence, they were asking, “Teach us how to have thekind of constant awareness and communion with the Father that You have.” Thatshould be our prayer today: Lord, teach us to pray. Prayeris continual God-consciousness. In Acts 2:42, we read that the early church “continuedsteadfastly… in prayers.” David said in Psalm 55:17, “Evening, andmorning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.” Myfriend, we are always subject to attack. Therefore, we must always be inprayer.Jesustold His disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane, “Watch and pray.” Butthey slept. Jesus prayed. When the temptation came, Peter failed. But Jesusstood strong in the midst of the greatest temptation ever faced—on the cross. Myfriend, we too can stand strong when we continue instant in prayer. Jesussaid in Luke 18:1 that men “ought always to pray, and not to faint.”Either we are praying, or we are quitting. We are praying or we are fainting. Oh, my friend, prayer is the breath of the Christian—that constant awareness of the breath of God. So what is the frequency of prayer? Itis this: praying always—in every situation, every day, at all times—keepingyour mind set on Him and continually asking for His grace and

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God sometimes substitutes our specific requests with a far greater, unexpected gift. Scripture shows God saying "no" to both the Apostle Paul and Jesus in Gethsemane. In part three of this interview, Pastor Lutzer reveals God's sufficient grace in unanswered prayers. Could our redemption actually depend on a prayer that went unheeded by the Father? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29?v=20251111

God sometimes substitutes our specific requests with a far greater, unexpected gift. Scripture shows God saying "no" to both the Apostle Paul and Jesus in Gethsemane. In part three of this interview, Pastor Lutzer reveals God's sufficient grace in unanswered prayers. Could our redemption actually depend on a prayer that went unheeded by the Father? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.  Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives.  Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.    SUPPORT:  Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/  Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/    SUBSCRIBE:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia  Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/ 

In a quiet garden under crushing pressure, the fate of humanity hangs in the balance. In Mark 14:32–42, Jesus enters Gethsemane—the place of the oil press—where the Second Adam submits fully to the Father's will and accepts the cup of judgment meant for us. This week, Pastor Korey walks through the agony, obedience, and love of Christ, showing that our redemption rests not on human strength, but on the faithful obedience of the Son.

Wednesday February 25, 2026 Mat 26:36-41 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to His disciples, "Sit here while I go over there... for full notes: https://www.cgtruth.org/index.php?proc=msg&sf=vw&tid=3263

It’s natural to wonder what God’s will is for your life—especially when you’re facing uncertainty, hardship, or a season that feels confusing. We often ask, “What is my purpose?” or “Why am I here?” But one truth remains steady: God’s will is always connected to His glory and our transformation. Romans 12:2 reminds us that we discover God’s will not by following the world’s patterns, but by renewing our minds through Him. That means God’s will isn’t always something we “figure out” like a puzzle—it’s something we grow into as we surrender our hearts, our plans, and our desires to Him. This prayer points us back to Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Even Jesus, overwhelmed by what lay ahead, prayed for another way—yet He ultimately surrendered with the words that changed history: “Not my will, but Yours be done.” That same posture is what God invites us into. Sometimes God’s will includes paths we didn’t expect: waiting, sacrifice, singleness, illness, loss, or deep stretching. But God never wastes suffering. Even what looks like delay or disappointment can become a platform for His glory and a testimony that strengthens others. Today’s reminder is simple but powerful: God’s will is good—even when it’s hard to understand. And the safest place you can be is in the center of His plans, trusting that He sees the full story from beginning to end. Main Takeaways God’s will is always good, even when it’s difficult or unclear. Renewing your mind through Christ helps you recognize God’s direction. Jesus modeled surrender when He prayed, “Not my will, but Yours be done.” God may use hard seasons to glorify Himself and strengthen others through you. Living in God’s will means putting Christ at the center of every decision. Today’s Bible Verse And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. – Romans 12:2 Your Daily Prayer Prayer excerpt for listeners: “Make me more like Christ so that I would long to remain in Your will.” Listen to the full prayer here. To view the prayer in written format, visit the links below. Want More? Relevant Links & Resources LifeAudio.com – Christian podcasts, devotionals, and faith-based encouragement Crosswalk.com – Daily prayers, devotionals, and Bible resources This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.orgTrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. https://trinitycredit.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What is prayer? And maybe more importantly for preachers—what are we inviting people into when we stand in the pulpit and speak about it? As “Preach” continues its Lent 2026 series, we turn to the three classical pillars that shape the season: prayer, fasting and almsgiving. In this first conversation, focused on prayer, Ricardo da Silva, S.J. is joined by Amy Ekeh, Director of Mission Advancement for the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, retreat leader, author and adjunct instructor in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at Sacred Heart University. Amy is the author of several books, including:  Stretch Out Your Hand: Reflections on the Healing Ministry of Jesus Come to Me, All of You: Stations of the Cross in the Voice of Christ  Lent: Season of Transformation Timecodes: 0:00 We can't be afraid to ask for God's help 1:25 Who is Amy Ekeh? 2:50 Prayer is relational 7:57 Prayer is nurtured in community 14:30 Good preaching requires you to know your congregation 16:53 Ask for healing! The people in the Gospels did. 21:38 Jesus' Gethsemane prayer 26:16 Carving out space for silence --- Support this podcast by becoming a subscriber. Visit ⁠americamagazine.org/subscribe⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Day 2802 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2802 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 115:1-8 – Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2802 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2802 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. The Title for Today's Wisdom-Trek is: Our God is Supreme Today, we are continuing our journey through the "Egyptian Hallel," the magnificent collection of praise songs sung by the Jewish people during the Passover festival. We are stepping into the first half of Psalm One Hundred Fifteen, covering verses one through eight, in the New Living Translation. To set the stage, let us remember where we stood in our previous trek. In Psalm One Hundred Fourteen, we witnessed the sheer, terrifying power of the Theophany. We saw the earth tremble, the Red Sea flee, and the Jordan River turn back at the very presence of the God of Jacob. It was a psalm of action, movement, and cosmic disruption. Yahweh stepped into history, and the chaotic forces of nature panicked. But as we turn the page to Psalm One Hundred Fifteen, the tone shifts from the dramatic trembling of the earth to a profound, theological reflection. According to Jewish tradition, while Psalms One Hundred Thirteen and One Hundred Fourteen were sung before the Passover meal, Psalm One Hundred Fifteen was the first hymn sung after the meal was finished. Imagine the scene. Jesus and His disciples have just finished the Last Supper. The bread has been broken; the cup of the new covenant has been poured. And before they walk out into the dark night toward the Garden of Gethsemane, they lift their voices to sing these exact words. They sing about the glory of God, the foolishness of the world's idols, and the absolute sovereignty of the King of Heaven. This psalm is a brilliant polemic—a theological argument—against the gods of the surrounding nations. It contrasts the living, unrestrained God of Israel with the dead, handcrafted statues of the pagan world. It challenges us to ask: Where does the glory belong, and what are we truly placing our trust in? Let us dive into the text. Psalm One Hundred Fifteen: verse one. Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name goes all the glory for your unfailing love and faithfulness. The psalm opens with one of the most profound statements of humility in the entire Bible. The psalmist repeats the phrase for emphasis: "Not to us, O Lord, not to us." This is the ultimate deflection of human pride. When Israel looked back at the Exodus—when they remembered the sea parting and the enemies drowning—it was incredibly tempting to pat themselves on the back. It is human nature to assume that if God blesses us, saves us, or uses us, it must be because we are somehow special, worthy, or superior. But the psalmist violently rejects that idea. He says, "Lord, do not give us the credit. We did not part the sea. We did not defeat the Egyptian empire. The glory belongs entirely, exclusively, and completely to Your Name." And why does the glory go to His Name? Because of two foundational attributes: His "unfailing love" and His

In this episode, we begin with a discussion prompted by a question about The Chosen; if the show depicts Joseph comforting Jesus in Gethsemane, is that a theological shift in broader Christianity toward the LDS idea that angels can be resurrected beings who once lived on earth?  From there, the conversation pivots into Part 2 with a deeper dive into the apocryphal Book of Enoch: why it mattered to early Christians, how Jude appears to quote it, and how Enoch's dramatic narrative tries to explain the origin of evil through fallen angels, forbidden knowledge, and giants the size of Mount Garfield.  We had a couple of spots open up on our Standard of Truth Tour to Missouri/Illinois. We meet in Kansas City on Sunday, June 21st, and fly home from St. Louis on Saturday, June 27th. https://standardoftruth.com/tours/tour-missouri-nauvoo-carthage-springfield-st-louis-june-21-27-2026/ Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

This episode is part 48 in a study of the gospel of Luke. Jesus goes to pray in the garden of Gethsemane and is betrayed there by Judas and arrested. He is tried before the Jewish leaders. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We all eventually face the crushing weight of a prayer left unanswered. Jesus wrestled with the Father's will in the Garden of Gethsemane. In this message from Mark 14, Pastor Lutzer discusses four critical questions about the “cup” of wrath and Christ's ultimate surrender. Let's find enduring peace when heaven seems silent. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29?v=20251111