Podcasts about Gethsemane

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.

1. The Path of His Feet 2. The People of His Presence 3. The Ponderings of His Mind

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. 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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 this powerful message from Luke 22, Pastor Blake Lawyer guides us through Jesus' time in the Garden of Gethsemane—a moment where both divinity and humanity come into full focus. As Jesus kneels in anguish and prays, we're reminded of our own limitations and the spiritual battles we face daily. This sermon challenges us to make prayer our “red bandana”—our go-to, our ethos—just as it was for Jesus. With reflections on our human weakness, temptation, and the mercy of Christ, we're invited to prepare today for the temptations we might face tomorrow. Don't miss this honest, hope-filled teaching that will deepen your dependence on Jesus and inspire a more prayerful life.

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

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 

"Pain to Purpose" by Dr. Bobby Allen, explores the transformative power of suffering through a spiritual lens. It posits that God utilizes personal pain, grief, and trials not as destructive forces, but as catalysts for divine purpose and growth. Drawing upon Biblical examples like Jesus weeping, Joseph's imprisonment, and Gethsemane, the sermon illustrates how adversity prepares individuals, builds their wisdom, and equips them to comfort and serve others. Ultimately, it encourages surrendering personal struggles to God, believing He will convert them into strength, testimony, and a pathway to fulfilling one's calling.

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.

Jesushas been praying with His disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane when Judasshows up with a “multitude” of the temple guards to arrest Jesus. To get thefull picture of this event, I highly recommend that you read all four Gospelaccounts. John tells us that Jesus “went forth” to meet Judas and those withhim and asked, “Whom are you seeking?” They answered, “Jesus of Nazareth” andJesus said, “I am He”. At those words, God released the radiance of His glory,and it literally knocked Judas and all the mob to the ground (John 18:1-12).  Matthewtells us that this is when Judas gets up and greets Jesus saying, “Hail Master”and then kisses Jesus. Jesus calls him “Friend” and the officers came and “laidhands on Jesus and took Him” (Matthew 26:47-56).Itwas then that the disciples remembered (and misunderstood) His words about thesword (Luke 22:35-38), so they asked Him if now was the time to make use oftheir two swords. Without waiting for the answer, Peter rushed ahead andattacked a man who turned out to be Malchus, a servant to the high priest (John18:10, 26-27). Whydid Peter do this? For one thing, he had to back up the boastful words he hadspoken in the Upper Room (Luke 22:33) and again on the way to the Garden (Matt.26:30-35). Someone rightly said, “Peter had been sleeping when he should havebeen praying, talking when he should have been listening, and boasting when heshould have been fearing. Now he was fighting when he should have beensurrendering!” Petermade a number of serious mistakes when he attacked Malchus with his sword. Tobegin with, Peter was fighting the wrong enemy with the wrong weapon. We mustalways remember that our enemies are not flesh and blood, and they cannot bedefeated with ordinary weapons (2 Cor. 10:3-6; Eph. 6:10-18). In His wildernesstemptations, Jesus defeated Satan with the Word of God (Matt. 4:1-11), and thatis the weapon we must use (Eph. 6:17; Heb. 4:12). Peteralso revealed the wrong attitude and trusted the wrong energy. While Jesus wassurrendering, Peter was busy declaring war! This reveals that he was dependingon "the arm of flesh." His whole approach to the situation was not atall Christlike (John 18:36) and stands as a good warning to us today. The lostworld may act this way, but it is not the way God's servants should act (Matthew12:19; 2 Timothy 2:24). Jesus had taught His disciples and us that: “love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you,and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may besons of your Father in heaven…” (Matthew 5:38-45). Itis just like Jesus to act in grace when others are acting in malice (Psalms103:10). He showed grace to Peter by rebuking his presumptuous sin andrepairing the damage he had done. He showed grace to Malchus, a lowly slave, byhealing his ear, and He showed grace to the whole world by willingly yieldingHimself to the mob and going to Calvary. He did not come to judge but to save(Luke 19:10).  John 3:16-17 reminds us: “For God did notsend His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world throughHim might be saved.” OurLord's last miracle before the cross was not a big flashy thing that attractedattention. It is likely that very few of the men who were there that night evenknew what Peter and Jesus had done. Jesus could have summoned twelve legions ofangels (Matthew 26:53), one legion (6,000 soldiers) for each of the elevendisciples and one for Himself, but He did not. Instead of performing somespectacular feat, He lovingly healed the ear of an obscure slave and thenpresented His hands to be bound. Eachof us must decide whether we will go through life pretending, like Judas; orfighting, like Peter; or yielding to God's perfect will, like Jesus. Today, willit be the kiss of betrayal, the sword of the flesh, or the cup of surrender tothe will of God?Godbless!

Welcometo Pastor's Chat. Today we continue to look at Luke chapter 22. At this point,we're with Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. He's been praying with three ofHis disciples—Peter, James, and John. They've been sleeping while He's beenpraying. Interestingly,one version says that Jesus said, “Then cometh he to his disciples, andsaith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand,and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us begoing: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.” (Matthew 26:45-46, KJV). I always wondered why Jesus would say,"Sleep on now, rise, let us be going." One of my devotionals pointedout that Jesus is saying, "Okay, wake up. Let it rest. You've beensleeping when you should have been praying. You can't reverse that. You shouldhave been seeking the face of God, watching for the temptation that was goingto come. Now it's too late to do that, so leave it behind you. Rise up, let'sbe going."  Wehave many failures in our lives. We need to let them sleep on, forgetting thethings which are behind and reaching for those things which are before. WhileHe was still speaking to the disciples and encouraging them to get up, Luketells us, "Behold, a multitude, and he who was called Judas, one of thetwelve, went before them and drew near to Jesus to kiss Him." But Jesussaid to him, "Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?"  I'veentitled this devotional "Betrayed with a Kiss." It makes me thinkabout the fact that here is Judas, one of the twelve disciples. Psalms 41:9,tells us that the Psalmist is referring to Jesus when He says, "My ownfamiliar friend who ate bread with Me has lifted up his heel against Me."So here is Jesus, a friend of Judas. In fact, one of the Gospels tells us thatHe actually called him friend when he came to betray Him (Matthew 26:57). Jesushas given Judas every opportunity to repent. Yet Judas, with a deceitful heart,with a hypocritical kiss—a sign of affection, love, and respect, which was howa student would greet their rabbi to show honor—comes and betrays Him.  TheGospel of Matthew tells us that Judas had told the group of soldiers and thechief priest, that he would give them a sign saying, “Whomsoever I shall kiss,the same is he, hold him fast" (Matthew 26:48).  He planned on betraying Jesus with a kiss. Howhypocritical is that? He would look like the friend and disciple of Jesus. "Faithfulare the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful"(Proverbs 27:6). Jesussays, "Are you going to betray Me with a kiss?" Don't youthink the Lord says that to you and me today in many ways? We go to church,sing the songs, lift up our hands, praise the Lord, worship with otherbelievers, and maybe even go to the altar and pray. But then we leave thechurch and live for self, the world, or the devil. We are betraying the Lordwith a kiss.  WhenJudas went and asked the chief priest, "How can I betray Jesus?" theyoffered thirty pieces of silver. It was as if he sold his soul to the devil. Weknow that at the supper with Jesus, Satan entered into him. He sold his soul tothe devil. When we make a choice to exchange Jesus for the world, you becomeservants to whom you yield yourselves to obey (Romans 6:16). Jesus on anearlier occasion had said, “This people draw nigh to me with their mouths,and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me” (Matthew15:8).  So,my friend, we don't want to be in the position of a Judas. Make sure that ourkiss for Jesus is truly genuine from our hearts, honoring Him. Let's cling toJesus, just as Ruth did to Naomi. Orpah kissed her and went the other way, backto her gods in Moab, but Ruth clung to Naomi (Ruth 1:14-18). May we cling toJesus today and show Him our love with our life every moment of every day.  Isyour heart close to Jesus today or is it far away?Godbless!

 "Pain to Purpose" by Dr. Bobby Allen, explores the transformative power of suffering through a spiritual lens. It posits that God utilizes personal pain, grief, and trials not as destructive forces, but as catalysts for divine purpose and growth. Drawing upon Biblical examples like Jesus weeping, Joseph's imprisonment, and Gethsemane, the sermon illustrates how adversity prepares individuals, builds their wisdom, and equips them to comfort and serve others. Ultimately, it encourages surrendering personal struggles to God, believing He will convert them into strength, testimony, and a pathway to fulfilling one's calling.

The Garden of Gethsemane is a beautiful, awe-inspiringplace, a place of holy ground, we believe. There, our tour group will gatheraround an old olive tree that I'm sure does not date back to the time of Christ2,000 years ago. The Romans probably destroyed the Garden when they destroyedJerusalem in AD 70 when Titus invaded the city and no doubt destroyed all thetrees around it. But this tree could have grown from the roots of the treesthat were in the garden when Jesus was there.  Todaythe Garden of Gethsemane is next to the Church of the Nations. It is still avery special and holy place. We might not be able to go to Jerusalem today and physicallyenter the Garden of Gethsemane, but by going into the Word of God and lookingat these scriptures that we're studying now we can still experience the realityof a loving and courageous Savior and enjoy His presence wherever we are. Aswe've gone through this passage, and also read the other Gospel accounts ofthis scene, so many things stand out that grab my attention, but one that's standsout is from Dr. Luke. Remember, Luke was a physician writing the Gospel ofLuke. His is the only gospel that mentions an angel strengthening the Lord, buthe's also the only gospel that mentions what we read in verse 44, "Andbeing in agony, Jesus prayed more earnestly."  I'mbelieving this is probably the third time that Jesus, after being strengthenedby the angel, goes back to that place, that rock where He's praying, kneelingbefore the Father, and He's praying more earnestly in great agony. Then Lukepoints out, "Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling tothe ground." When Adam sinned in the Garden of Eden, God put a curseon the ground and told him, By the sweat of your brow, you will have to work theground to bear any fruit, to eat (Genesis 3:17-19). Now Jesus, the second Adam,is in the garden, and He is submitting to the will of God, where the first Adamwas disobedient and brought sin and death into the world. Jesus is obedient,and He's bringing life and the Holy Spirit into the world. So, what we see herein verse 44 is this mention of sweat and blood falling to the ground fromJesus.  Sometell us that there's a rare physical phenomenon known as hematidrosis, undergreat emotional distress, tiny blood vessels can rupture in the sweat glandsand produce a mixture of blood and sweat. We're not sure exactly if this issymbolically written here or if it's literal. I tend to believe it was literalbecause the blood of Jesus testifies to who He is, and the blood of Jesus hadto be shed. There's a verse in Hebrews 9:14, that says, "How much moreshall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himselfwithout spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve theliving God."  Theblood of bulls and goats could only cover sin temporarily in the Old Testamentas a sacrifice, showing that we're looking forward to the sacrifice of JesusChrist. Hebrews says that through the eternal Spirit, and by His Spirit, oh myfriend, you and I need to grasp the meaning of the Holy Spirit being a part ofJesus giving Himself, yielding Himself and shedding His blood. If we are tolive a life that honors God, we need the anointing, the moving, the fullness,and the filling of the Holy Spirit upon us to do what we need to do every day.  Weeither live after the flesh or we live after the Spirit (Romans 8:1-11;Galatians 6:8). The flesh is weak, the Spirit is willing. God's Holy Spiritempowers our spirit to do the will of God. Jesus, through the eternal Spirit,gave and shed His blood that you and I might be cleansed by His blood.  We need to have cleansing of sin every day (1John 1:7-9). I trust you'll trust Him for that today.  Theseare wonderful lessons from the mysteries of Gethsemane. I trust you'll applythem to your life today.

The Word of God Devotional and Evangelical Ministries The Word of God Daily Devotional Monday, June 30, 2025 The Garden of Gethsemane

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

* You can get the sermon note sheet at: http://family-bible-church.org/2025Messages/25Jun29.pdf * Three 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. In the last two weeks 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 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. This precedes what is coming next week: 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. * The Greek words peirazo (verb) and periasmos (noun) mean "to try, to test, to tempt . Whether it is a test or a temptation depends on the motivation of the one bringing the troublesome situation (e.g. God, Satan, a friend, an enemy) and by the response of the one entering the troublesome situation. James 1:13b-14 says "for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed." * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on June 22, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

Today,we're continuing to look at the mysteries of Gethsemane in Luke 22:40-46. Jesus is preparing for that hour, the hour that He willlay down His life on the cross for the sins of the world. Literally, when Satandoes everything he can to keep Him from the cross. But what the devil means for badand evil, the Bible tells us, God often means for good.   The first Adam, who should never have sinned, sinned andbrought sin into the world. But the second Adam, Jesus Christ, as 1 Corinthianschapter 15 tells us, is the only One who is able to take away the sins of theworld, as John chapter 1 states. HereJesus is in the garden, and this passage, unique to Luke's gospel, says that anangel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. Jesus is praying,He's facing a tremendous trial—mentally, emotionally, physically,spiritually—it's overwhelming. Yet Jesus, the Son of God, has an angel helpHim, strengthen Him. I can't help but meditate and think about this but admit Idon't understand it totally. Jesus was all God; yet at the same time, He wasall human, and His humanity needed strengthening as He faced the cross, thecruelties, and the slander. He came to His own, but His own received Him not.He was rejected, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. He said alreadythat He was overwhelmed with sorrow.  Tomorrowwe are going to talk about the prayer where He prays and then the sweat and theblood seem to flow from Him. But today, Jesus is there at the cross, goingthrough this ordeal of great sorrow. He's pouring out His soul to the Father, "NotMy will, but Thy will be done. Take this cup from Me." He's facingthat trial, that temptation that we face as human beings to do our will, to dowhat we want to do. But Jesus was committed to the will of God. He always wascommitted. "I came to do Thy will, O My Father." I love how even thisprayer begins with "Father." Jesus often referred to God asFather, and you find that one of the most popular words in the gospel of Johnis "Father." Interestingly,as a side note, John doesn't mention this prayer in the garden of Gethsemane.He mentions the high priestly prayer on the way to the garden somewhere. MaybeJohn chapter 17 is a prayer that Jesus prayed in the garden, but John doesn'ttell us that because after that prayer, it says they left the upper room andwent to the garden nearby, in John 18, and then he goes directly into Judascoming to betray Jesus.  Luketells us that Jesus has an angel come and strengthen Him in the gardenof Gethsemane. Jesus needed that strengthening, and you and I need to bestrengthened. God has many different ways to do this. We need the strength ofother Christians praying for us. We need the strength, comfort, andencouragement of fellowship with other Christians in the church. We definitelydo. But there are times that no one can help us but God Himself, and God cansend ministering spirits, angels, that will take us through that trial, thathard suffering, whatever it is.  I'llnever forget a time when I was in the depths of despair in my life, and I knowthat night I was strengthened by an angel. I don't want to go into the detailsof that, but it was definitely an angel who spoke to me, encouraged me, and Iknew that I heard him say that there were more with me than there were againstme. That's what he told me, and I'm telling you, my friend, God will strengthenyou, and if He needs to do it miraculously with an angel, He will.  That'show He did it with Jesus, and I'm thinking if Jesus needed it, I need it too attimes. I've learned by experience that whenever I am obedient to the will ofthe Father and yield my life to Him and the Holy Spirit, in some wonderful andmiraculous way at the moment I receive His energy and grace for the challengeI'm facing!    Itrust you will continue to meditate on these things and be in awe of your greatGod and Savior Jesus Christ and Father in heaven.

Today,we're continuing to meditate and look atthe scene of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane with His disciples. Remember, Heleft eight of them somewhere—we're not sure where—but took three of them,Peter, James, and John, a little further. Then immediately He told them inverse 40, “Pray that you enter not into temptation.” Now Matthew'sGospel tells us that He also said to them at that time, “Stay here and watchwith Me.” And then He went a little further and fell on His face andprayed.  Weknow that Jesus, when He prayed the first time, said, “Not My will, but Thywill be done,” to the Father, He came back and found the disciples sleeping.Jesus is praying and He asked them to pray. He needs the comfort and assurancethat the disciples are there with Him during His time of trial—His time oflaying down His life, of accepting the cup of sins of the entire humanity. Heneeds that support in prayer. If Jesus needed support in prayer, how much moredo we need support in prayer? Now,these three disciples, instead of praying, all fall asleep. Luke also tells us inverse 45, that He came after He prayed the last time and found them sleepingfrom sorrow. They're overwhelmed with sorrow. Jesus, as He shared the cup ofthe Lord's Supper with them had been telling them, “I'm going to die. This isMy flesh, this is My blood,” and reminded them that the Lamb had to die, and thatHe was the Lamb who was going to die. They're overwhelmed with sorrow. Theyexpected Him to set up His Kingdom, and He's talking about dying. That's why Jesustold them in John 14:1, “Let not your heart be troubled. You believe in God,believe also in Me.” Jesus saw the trouble in their hearts, the sorrowthat's overwhelming them. But now, instead of praying, they're sleeping becauseof sorrow.  Twoof the Gospels tells us that their eyes were heavy with sleep (Matthew 26:43;Mark 14:40). They were also overwhelmed with just physical tiredness. Andthat's a bad place for us to get into—where we're emotionally, physically,mentally, and spiritually worn out to the point that we cannot pray. The secondtime when He came and found them sleeping, He said to them, “Watch andpray.” In Matthew 26:41, we read that Jesus also said, “that you enternot into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” RememberPeter's declaration just minutes earlier? “If I have to die with You, I willnot deny You.” (Matthew 26:35). Okay—the spirit is willing. Especially whenwe go to church on Sunday morning and hear the message or the Sunday schoollesson, and we get around God's people, we feel strengthened. We feel strong.And we leave saying, “Man, I'm going to serve Jesus this week. I'm going tolive for Him. I'm not going to go back to those old habits and sins that takeme away from Him, keep me from praying, and keep me from getting up andspending time in the Word with the Lord in the morning.” Andyet, as willing as the spirit is on Sunday, Monday morning comes, and the fleshis weak. Or when the trial and the time of temptation comes—my friend, theflesh is weak. It's weaker than we ever imagined. Peter didn't know himself aswell as he thought he did. And neither do we.  Fromthis experience, Peter later writes in 1 Peter 5:8, “Be sober, be vigilant;your adversary the devil goes about like a roaring lion.” I'm convinced thedevil was out to kill Jesus there in the Garden of Gethsemane—to keep Him fromthe cross. I mean, the bastions of hell surrounded Jesus as He goes to thecross (Psalm 22:12-13). But Jesus is prepared, He prays three times. He praysand yields in obedience to the will of the Father. The disciples? What are theydoing? Sleeping.So,when the moment of temptation comes, what happens with Peter and the disciples?They all forsake Him and flee. Jesus stands strong, yields Himself as a Lambgoing to the slaughter, and goes with the soldiers to be crucified.

Jesus predicts his Betrayal again as they are at the Last Supper. It is so amazing that even though Jesus knows Judas' heart He still washes his feet and includes him in this last meal together. It is just a matter of hours and Judas will betray Jesus. Jesus then predicts Peter's denial of Jesus. And then Matthew takes us with them into the garden of Gethsemane where Jesus prays with the Father for the cup to be taken away. He invites three of the disciples to join him in prayer but they fall asleep repeatedly. Jesus is then betrayed and to everyone's amazement he allows himself to be arrested. Jesus is taken to the council and Peter denies Jesus three times as Jesus had predicted. The pdf is available at www.rediscoveringgod.ca#rediscoveringgod#Ian Hartley#Warren Kay#Sascha Steenbergen

Jesus kneels to pray, saying, "Father, if it is Yourwill, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not My will, but Yours, bedone."  Thenan angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. And being in agony, Heprayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood fallingdown to the ground. When He rose up from prayer and had come to His disciples,He found them sleeping from sorrow. Then He said to them, "Why do yousleep? Rise and pray, lest you enter into temptation." Twice He tells themto pray that they avoid falling into temptation and listening to the lies ofSatan and doing what he wants rather than what God would want. Matthewtells us that He took these three men with Him into the garden. He said tothem, "My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here andwatch with Me." Matthew's gospel provides more detail about whathappened as Jesus was with these disciples in this time of prayer in the gardenbefore He was arrested by the crowd that came with Judas.  “Hewent a little further and fell on His face and prayed, saying, "O MyFather, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, notas I will, but as You will." Then He came to the disciples and found themsleeping and said to Peter, "What, could you not watch with Me one hour?Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing,but the flesh is weak." Again, a second time, He went away and prayed,saying, "O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless Idrink it, Your will be done." He came and found them asleep again, fortheir eyes were heavy. So He left them and went away again and prayed the thirdtime, saying the same words. Then He came to His disciples and said to them,"Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is at hand, and theSon of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going.See, My betrayer is at hand." (Matthew 26:36-46) Thisis a powerful passage of Scripture, reminding us of Jesus as He would drink “thiscup” in Gethsemane. The question for many has been: what does this cuprepresent? In my mind, this cup represents the cup of the sins of the world. “Thiscup” represented Jesus receiving and taking sin upon Himself. The Biblesays in 2 Corinthians 5:21, "For God made Jesus to be sin for us, whoknew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him."  Inother words, Jesus was at this hour where He would literally take upon Himself thesin of all the world. He became that sin. The sinless Son of God, the pure Sonof God, the holy Son of God, was now going to take the sin of the world. Wecan't even fathom what and all of this means, but Jesus took that sin. Hebecame that sin, and of course, His holy divine nature would say, "Please,I can't even begin to comprehend taking this sin."  Yet,Jesus never said, "Take away the cross and it's suffering." No, Heknew He came for this hour. This was the hour that He would pay the price forthe sins of the world. We see this is the cup of suffering spiritually,emotionally, and physically. “This cup” of sin that Jesus says,"Take from Me, but not My will." In other words, He learned obediencethrough suffering as the Scripture says in Hebrews. Philippians 2:8 says, “Andbeing found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient tothe point of death, even the death of the cross.  Jesuswas obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." Why? Because Hehumbled Himself. He laid aside His divine powers. The angel came andstrengthened Him. These are powerful passages reminding us what Jesus did foryou and me.  Itrust you'll take them into your heart and live a life of thankfulness,gratefulness, and service to Him as you meditate and think about “thiscup” and what Jesus did for you. Godbless!

Are the Ten Commandments, God's Law which He Gave to Us, Becoming Irrelevant for America? MESSAGE SUMMARY: Today, are we saying that the Ten Commandments are irrelevant for America? Are the Ten Commandments becoming illegal in America? If so, why? As a nation, we no longer teach or practice the Ten Commandments. We have made it illegal to post the Ten Commandments, which are God's Law to us, on most walls of our courts and government schools. From a spiritual perspective, how can God, the Creator of the Universe, bless a nation which mocks and/or ignores Him? Paul, in Galatians 6:6-7, cautions both us and our governments regarding the mocking of God: “Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches. Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.”. From a practical perspective, how can a society and a government function when their foundation has been removed? Our form of government was founded on the ethical base of the Ten Commandments. The Ten Commandments were in the thoughts and cultural norms of the people that created our country.   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, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Past Failures. Rather, I will abide in the Lord's Grace. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Romans 1:10-12; James 5:13-18; Exodus 3:1-15; Psalms 136a:1-13. WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “When Facing Difficult Circumstances, Look to Jesus as Our Great High Priest” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

When Jesus gets to the garden, He takes three of the inner circledisciples—Peter, James, and John—and goes a little further. Jesusleft eight of the other disciples somewhere else in the garden, and He takesthese three a little further. What's interesting is that this is the third timethat Jesus has shared a special occasion with these three men. The first waswhen Jesus raised Jairus's daughter from the dead in Luke 8:41-56. The secondis when Jesus was on the Mount of Transfiguration and was transfigured beforethem in Luke 9:28-36. Youunderstand that even on this third occasion in the garden, there's somethingconnected spiritually with all three of these occasions, and that is death.Jesus raised Jairus's daughter from the dead when James, John, and Peter werein the room with Him on that occasion. Dr. G. Campbell Morgan, a great Biblepreacher, a British expositor, pointed out that each of these occasions hadsomething to do with death. In Jairus's house, Jesus proved Himself to bevictorious over death. On the Mount of Transfiguration, Jesus was glorifiedthrough death. There, He, Moses, and Elijah were talking about His decease, Hisdeath in Jerusalem, and, of course, His resurrection. Now here in the garden,Jesus is surrendering His life to death. Youremember also that James was the first apostle to die in Acts 12:1-2. John wasthe last to die, probably on the Isle of Patmos or maybe after He got out ofexile and came back to Ephesus. Peter experienced great persecution andeventually was crucified, they tell us, upside down in Rome. These threelessons were no doubt practical for them as they themselves prepared for deathand faced death as they did later. Sowe see Jesus is with these three disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane. I wouldreally encourage you to read Matthew 26:36-46. Matthew's gospel, on thisoccasion in verse 37, tells us that He took with Him Peter and the two sons ofZebedee and began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. He said to them,"My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch withMe." Then it says He went a little further. Here in chapter 22 of Luke'sgospel, in verse 41, He withdrew from them about a stone's throw. Ifyou think about that, a stone's throw was basically saying as far as it wouldtake to throw a stone. When the Jewish people were about to kill someone,Jewish execution always took place with a stoning. Luke giving us the distance,“a stone's throw”, was his way of telling us that Jesus was preparing for thatstone's throw, but it wouldn't be a stone's throw; it would be a crucifixionbecause Old Testament scripture prophesied that Jesus would be crucified. Hewould be hung on a cross; He would die in a cruel way; His blood would be shedthat way. SoJesus went about a stone's throw and He knelt down and prayed. Very interesting,Jesus had said to the disciples, "Watch and pray. I need your help; I needyour support during this hour. Watch and pray; be alert; be on the watch. Satanis out to destroy you; Satan is out to hinder us and keep us even from going tothe cross."  Jesusbegan to be very sorrowful. So Jesus asked them to watch and pray. In Matthew'sgospel, He actually did this two times, came back the third time, and said, "ThenHe came to His disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping andresting? Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed intothe hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand."(Matthew 26:45-46) Soyou see this whole picture unfolds, Jesus is in Gethsemane, pouring out His heartin prayer. Tomorrow we'll talk about what He prayed concerning that cup, thatcup that He prayed, "Take this cup away from Me, nevertheless not My will,but Yours, be done." Today,I trust that instead of being asleep spiritually we are alert, watching andpraying during our trial of temptation! God bless!

On Thursday evening that we're looking at here in Luke chapter 22,Jesus has the Passover meal with His disciples, and there He institutes theLord's Supper. Somewhere between the Passover meal and the institution of the Lord'sSupper, Judas leaves to go gather the soldiers that will arrest Jesus. It is aroundthis same time, Jesus told Peter, "You're going to betray Me threetimes." Now, it is at that point, John 18:1 says, “When Jesus hadspoken these words, He went out with His disciples over the Brook Kidron, wherethere was a garden, which He and His disciples entered.” In Matthew 26:36, Matthewgives us the name of the garden. “Then Jesus came withthem to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, "Sit herewhile I go and pray over there." That'swhat we're looking at in verse 39 of Luke 22: “Coming out, Jesus went to theMount of Olives, as He was accustomed, and His disciples also followed Him”.No doubt, Judas knew that He was going to this place each evening, and that'swhy he went there with the Roman soldiers to arrest Jesus after he had betrayedHim. Youmight ask why is this garden such a significant place for the story of Christ betrayal,arrest and crucifixion? Why did Jesus go to this garden, and why does thisgarden become a place that we need to know about? I think there are so manywonderful things we can learn from this. We must remember that the history ofmankind began in a garden; that's where God created Adam and placed him in agarden in Genesis 2:7-25. Read through that passage and circle the word"in the garden" or "the garden". It'sin the garden of Eden in Genesis chapter 3 that sin enters the world. There yousee Adam and Eve disobeying and rebelling against known will of God and eatingof the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, and sin enters theworld. But we also know here we have the Son of Man, Jesus Christ, the Son ofGod, who is the second Adam, according to 1 Corinthians 15:45-47. The firstAdam was disobedient and ate of the fruit that was forbidden, and sin comesinto the human race. It was the second man, Jesus Christ, who submitted to thewill of God. He became obedient even unto the death of the cross, and there inthe garden of Gethsemane, He accepts the cup, the cup of our sins, the cup ofsufferings, and He is willing to go to the cross and die for us and give useternal life. The first Adam brought death in a garden, but the second Adam,Jesus Christ, is the one who brings us life as He submitted to the will of theFather. Howinteresting is that, that it all begins and ends in the garden? Maybe John hadin mind, when he said that Jesus crossed the brook Kidron, he was thinkingabout David in 2 Samuel chapter 15, when Absalom rebelled against him, andDavid loses his throne and leaves Jerusalem with a small remnant of followersand goes across the brook Kidron, fleeing from his son Absalom. Here we seeJesus Christ, the King of the Jews, literally the King of heaven, the King ofeternity; He is rejected, and He leaves Jerusalem and goes across the samebrook Kidron, which means “murky, dark. and enters the garden of Gethsemane. Theword Gethsemane means “olive press”, where the olives would be pressed, and outof it would come the oil that would be used for healing and cooking and for somany different things. In the garden of Gethsemane Jesus Christ drank the cupof our sins; He was pressed; His life was pressed out of Him there in prayer asHe prayed, and willingly laid down His life for usWhatan interesting passage. I trust you'll meditate on these words, and you'll evenmore than ever love your Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave His life for you. Godbless!

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/

Today,we will go back to Luke 22:17-20. It was when the Passover meal was drawing toa close (Matthew 26:25; Luke 22:20) that Jesus instituted the ordinance thatthe church calls "The Communion" (1 Cor. 10:16), or "The Lord'sSupper" (1 Cor. 11:20), or "The Eucharist," from the Greek wordwhich means "to give thanks." ThePassover feast opened with a prayer of thanksgiving, followed by the drinkingof the first of four cups of wine. We believe that this wine was diluted withwater and was not intoxicating. Next they ate the bitter herbs and sang Psalms113-114. Then they drank the second cup of wine and began eating the lamb andthe unleavened bread. After drinking the third cup of wine, they sang Psalms115-118; and then the fourth cup was passed among them. It is likely thatbetween the third and fourth cups of wine, Jesus instituted the Supper. Paulgave the order of the Supper in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. First, Jesus broke apiece from the unleavened loaf, gave thanks, and shared it with the disciples,saying that it represented His body which was given for them. He then gavethanks for the cup and shared it, saying that it represented His blood. It wasa simple observance that used the basic elements of a humble Jewish meal. Jesussanctified the simple things of life and used them to convey profound spiritualtruths. Jesusstated one of the purposes for the Supper: "in remembrance of Me" (v.19: also see 1 Cor. 11:24-25). It is a memorial feast to remind the believerthat Jesus Christ gave His body and blood for the redemption of the world.There is no suggestion in the accounts of the Supper that anything"miraculous" took place when Jesus blessed the bread and the cup. Thebread remained bread and the wine remained wine, and the physical act ofreceiving the elements did not do anything special to the eleven disciples.When we partake, we identify ourselves with His body and blood (1 Cor. 10:16),but there is no suggestion here that we receive His body and blood. Asecond purpose for the supper is the proclaiming of His death until He returns(1 Cor. 11:26). The Supper encourages us to look back with love and adorationto what He did for us on the cross and to look forward with hope andanticipation to His coming again. Since we must be careful not to come to theLord's table with known sin in our lives, the Supper should also be an occasionfor looking within, examining our hearts, and confessing our sins (1 Cor.11:27-32). Athird blessing from the Supper is the reminder of the unity of the church: weare "one loaf" (1 Cor. 10:17). It is "The Lord's Supper"and is not the exclusive property of any Christian denomination. Whenever weshare in the Supper, we are identifying with Christians everywhere and arereminded of our obligation to "keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond ofpeace" (Eph. 4:3). Forus to receive a spiritual blessing from the Supper, it takes more than merephysical participation. We must also be able to "discern the body" (1Cor. 11:29), that is, see the spiritual truths that are inherent in the breadand the cup. This spiritual discernment comes through the Spirit using theWord. The Holy Spirit makes all of this real to us as we wait before the Lordat the table. Followingthe instituting of the Supper in the Upper Room, Jesus taught His disciplesmany of the basic truths they desperately needed to know in order to haveeffective ministries in a hostile world (John 14-16). He prayed for Hisdisciples (John 17); then they sang a hymn and departed from the Upper Room forthe Garden of Gethsemane. Judas knew they would go there and he would have thearresting officers all prepared. Asyou review this passage, you cannot help but be impressed with the calmness andcourage of the Savior. It is He who is in control, not Satan or Judas or theSanhedrin. It is He who encourages the Apostles! And He is able even to sing ahymn before He goes out to die on a cross!  

Jesus prays in the garden of Gethsemane, calling upon His disciples to "watch and pray". Jesus' example gives us an opportunity to ask and answer the question: what is 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

Wrestling God - God's Will vs. Our Will•The conversation transitions to the deeper implications of wrestling with God, touching on the challenges of aligning personal desires with divine will.•They discuss the tension between human understanding and God's purposes, emphasizing the importance of surrendering pride for spiritual growth.Personal Stories of Divine Wrestling•Andy's Journey: Andy recounts his personal struggles with obedience to God's call, particularly regarding moving houses and adopting children. He describes a wrestling match with God over these life decisions and the confusion that ensued.•The Role of Obedience: The hosts emphasize that wrestling can be a test of obedience, with God often asking individuals to step out of their comfort zones.Learning Through Struggle•The hosts affirm that spiritual wrestling often leads to deeper understanding and humility, much like physical wrestling.•They invoke the example of Jesus in Gethsemane, who wrestled with the weight of His mission but ultimately submitted to God's will, reinforcing that wrestling with God is a biblical and spiritual norm.Practical Steps for Wrestling with GodSeeking God in Times of Struggle1.Take Your Concerns to God: The hosts encourage listeners to pray and seek God directly rather than relying on external opinions that may not align with spiritual truths.2.Express Lament: They stress the importance of expressing one's feelings of frustration, anger, or confusion to God, citing the Psalms as a model for honest communication with God.3.Community Engagement: The necessity of engaging with a community of faith is highlighted. Surrounding oneself with spiritually mature individuals can provide support and challenge one's understanding.Seeking Understanding Through God's Word•The hosts encourage listeners to study Scripture as a way to gain clarity on personal struggles, emphasizing that God's ways often differ from human understanding.•They reference James 1:5, urging individuals to seek wisdom from God, who generously gives it to those who ask.Trusting God's Goodness•Despite the struggles, the hosts remind listeners to trust in God's sovereignty and overall goodness, reiterating that divine plans often exceed human comprehension.•The hosts conclude that wrestling with God is a lifelong journey, one that fosters growth and understanding in one's relationship with Him.Conclusion•The podcast ends on an encouraging note, inviting listeners to engage in their own wrestling matches with God, asserting that these struggles are not just acceptable but essential for spiritual growth.•The hosts remind listeners to embrace the wrestling process, assuring them that such experiences lead to a more profound relationship with God and a better understanding of His plans.Final ThoughtsThe episode effectively emphasizes that wrestling with God is a vital part of faith that leads to deeper understanding, humility, and ultimately, transformation. The personal stories, scriptural references, and practical advice create a relatable and insightful discussion for listeners, encouraging them to embrace their spiritual struggles as opportunities for growth.https://rocksolidfamilies.orgSupport the show#Rocksolidfamilies,#familytherapy,#marriagecounseling,#parenting,#faithbasedcounseling,#counseling,#Strongdads,#coaching,#lifecoach,#lifecoaching,#marriagecoaching,#marriageandfamily,#control,#security,#respect,#affection,#love,#purpose,#faith,#mastersofdisaster,#storms,#disasterrelief,#tornados,#hurricanes,#floods

Are you overwhelmed by Catholic devotions, content, and the pressure to “get holier faster”? You're not alone.In this episode of St. Anthony's Tongue, we explore the growing experience of Catholic spiritual burnout. From overloading your life with novenas, consecrations, and scapulars, to the anxiety of trying to keep up with Catholic content and rituals—you may be doing everything “right,” but still feel far from God.This episode is a spiritual detox: a call to slow down, let go, and rediscover the peace that comes from simply being with God.Drawing on the wisdom of Brother Lawrence, we discuss the Practice of the Presence of God—a path of simplicity, attention, and abiding love. You'll also hear reflections on:Why doing more doesn't always bring more graceWhat Catholic mysticism teaches about rest and stillnessHow to stop confusing devotion with performanceWhat the Prodigal Son and Gethsemane reveal about God's heartThe role of consecration, novenas, and sacramentals when done in love—not anxietyIf you're an exhausted Catholic, this episode is for you.

Welcometo Pastor's Chat. Today, we're continuing in Luke chapter 22, looking at verses35 through 38. Jesus is with the disciples in the upper room, or in the processof leaving for the Garden of Gethsemane. Judas has already gone to gather Romansoldiers to arrest Jesus and take Him to trial. It's Thursday evening, but inthe Jewish calendar, it's Friday, and Jesus knows He will be crucified. He ispreparing His disciples for this time, having already warned them ofpersecution and tribulation in John chapter 16, saying, “Don't let your heartbe troubled. You believe in God, believe also in Me. I'm going away, but I'llcome again, and I'm sending the Holy Spirit.” These things were said in theupper room, as recorded in John's Gospel. Now,Jesus is preparing His disciples for spiritual warfare in a new dispensation.After telling Peter in verses 31-34, “…Satan has asked for you, that he maysift you as wheat…. And before the rooster crows you  will deny three times that you know Me”, Jesusnow says in verse 35, “When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, andsandals, did you lack anything?” They replied, “Nothing.” He's referring towhen He sent the twelve to preach the gospel of the kingdom to the lost sheepof Israel, proclaiming, “The King is here; Jesus the Messiah is here—receiveHim, trust Him, believe Him.” They lacked nothing because God miraculouslyprovided as they preached throughout Israel. ThenHe says, “But now,” signaling a shift to a new time. He's going away, andthey'll be left to take the gospel of grace to the world, not just to Israelbut to the Gentiles. “He who has a money bag, let him take it, and likewise aknapsack; and he who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one. For Isay to you that this which is written must be accomplished in Me: ‘And He wasnumbered with the transgressors.' For the things concerning Me have an end.”  Jesusis quoting Isaiah 53:12, saying, “I'm numbered with the transgressors. I'mgoing to the cross to pay the price for the sins of the world. Somethingdifferent is coming—I'll be resurrected and leave, but you'll take this gospelto the world.” All things concerning Him will be accomplished; on the cross,His final words, “It is finished,” marked the completion of Hissubstitutionary, atoning work. Jesus is signaling the end of the dispensation ofOld Covenant as He fulfill all the prophesies and the demands of the Law bybecoming the final sacrifice for the sins of the world. He is about to finishthe Old and bring in the New! The disciples, still not grasping His meaning,say, “Look, Lord, here are two swords.” Jesus responds, “It is enough,” notmeaning that two swords are sufficient to fight the Roman soldiers inGethsemane, but rather, He was saying, “We're done talking—you'll understandlater.” It was only, after 40 days of studying the Word, and spending time withthe Lord between the resurrection and His Ascension, and 10 more days in  prayers in the Upper Room, and after the HolySpirit came upon them on Pentecost, did they begin to comprehend what Jesus wastalking about.  What Jesus is basically saying to them was,“Set aside the message of the gospel of the kingdom for another time. Now youwill go forth with the sword of the Spirit. You cannot fight this battle in theflesh—it must be through the power of prayer and the Word of God, with the HolySpirit working in and through you.” Whata powerful passage. Remember how Paul said it in 2 Corinthians 10:4, “Forthe weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling downstrongholds.”  And in Philippians3:1-11, Paul proclaimed that he had no confidence in the flesh but in the resurrectionpower of Jesus Christ! Today,let's make sure that we are serving Jesus in the Spirit, not in the flesh. Godbless!

Welcometo Pastor's Chat. Today, we're continuing in Luke chapter 22. The Lord has beenin the upper room with His disciples, sharing the Passover supper. As we'll seetomorrow, He also instituted the Lord's Supper for future generations like youand me. Now, the Lord is leaving the upper room with His disciples and headingto Gethsemane. Judas has already left, as Jesus had just told the disciplesthat one of them would betray Him. Now, the Lord speaks to Peter in verses 31-34. Itis interesting that this word of warning followed the dispute over who was thegreatest! Imagine how the disciples must have felt when they heard that notonly would one of their number betray Him, but that their spokesman and leaderwould publicly deny Him! If a strong man like Peter was going to fail the Lord,what hope was there for the rest of them? Theword you in Luke 22:31 is plural; Satan asked to have all the disciples so hemight sift them like wheat. These men had been with Jesus in His trials (Luke22:28), and He would not forsake them in their trials. This was both a warningand an encouragement to Peter and the other men, and our Lord's prayers wereanswered. Peter's courage failed but not his faith; he was restored tofellowship with Christ and was greatly used to strengthen God's people. Jesusnot only reveals that Judas will betray Him, but He also tells Peter that hewill deny Him. This is a significant passage of Scripture. Here is Peter, thespokesman for the disciples, the strong leader, as seen throughout the Gospelsand the early chapters of Acts, boldly proclaimed his faith, saying that evenif everyone else denies Jesus, he would not.  Severalkey points emerge here. First, Jesus said, "I have prayed foryou," noting that Satan sought permission to sift all the disciples aswheat, to cause them to fail. Satan is after every one of us, wanting us to beineffective as leaders and to deny knowing the Lord Jesus Christ. He would tossus like wheat to be blown away with the chaff, rendering us ineffective in ourwitness, though not losing our salvation. Peterresponds with confidence, saying, "Though all others forsake You, Iwon't—I'll die with You." But Peter didn't know himself as well as hethought. The book of Jeremiah tells us “the heart is deceitful above allthings and desperately wicked; who can know it”? (Jeremiah 17:9). Jesusdidn't pray that Peter would not fail but that his faith would not fail. Satantempts us at our strongest points. Peter's strength was his courage, yet helost it, though he did not lose his faith because the Lord prayed for him.Jesus told him, "When you have turned around, strengthen yourbrethren." Peter'sbold statement reveals his pride and self-confidence, implying he understoodwhy others might forsake Jesus but believed he never would. Yet, as the Lordpredicted, Peter not only forsook Him but denied Him three times. It all beganwith Peter's pride and overconfidence in himself. Again, Peter didn't knowhimself as well as he thought. Satan wants us to fail and often tempts us atour strongest points. Abraham's strength was his faith, yet he faltered, goingto Egypt and lying about his wife, Sarah. Moses, the meekest man on earth, losthis temper with rebellious Israel and forfeited his entry into the Holy Land. Wemust be careful, but remember that Satan cannot tempt us without permission, asseen with Job. We need to remember that our Lord is praying for us, and He willsee us through. And when we turn back from our failure, we have the opportunityto strengthen our brethren, just as Peter did. The main way we can “strengthen ourfellow believers”, is to pray for them like the Lord. And not pray they won'tfail, or not have trouble or persecution, but pray that their faith will not failwhen they falter and stumble.  Godbless!

In this episode of Bible Reading and Coffee Drinking, we dive into the powerful and emotional events of Matthew 26. From the woman who anoints Jesus with perfume, to Judas' betrayal, the Last Supper, and Jesus' agonizing prayer in Gethsemane—this chapter is full of heartbreak, devotion, and divine purpose. As the path to the cross begins, we see both human weakness and God's unshakable plan of redemption. Grab your Bible and coffee, and let's walk through this sacred moment in the story of our Savior.Also, use the code "Podcast20" to get 20% off our entire store. This is a special code specifically for our podcast listeners! See all our our hoodies, t-shirts, caps and more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.livingchristian.org/store.html⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Check out this podcast and all previous episodes on Spotify, iTunes, YouTube and more! - https://www.livingchristian.org/podcast.htmlNEW DEVOTIONAL: 30 Days With The Lord, A Living Christian Devotional: https://amzn.to/4eXAO7sMY BIBLE: Every Man's Bible: New Living Translation - Find it here: https://amzn.to/3MuDAUSCHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE BELOW FOR CHRISTIAN APPAREL, PRODUCTS, BLOGS, BIBLE VERSES AND MORE:Website | https://www.livingchristian.orgStore | https://www.livingchristian.org/store.htmlPodcast | https://www.livingchristian.org/podcast.htmlFOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/living_christian/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/livechristian1 Twitter | https://twitter.com/livechristian1Pinterest | https://www.pinterest.com/living_christian/TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@livingchristianABOUT US:Living Christian believes that our Christian faith isn't just for Sunday mornings in Church. Our faith impacts every aspect of our lives and the challenges we face every day of the week. We want to connect to people who are seeking to determine what Living Christian means in their own day-to-day lives. We are focused on providing resources and products to a community of believers. We provide daily biblical inspiration, motivation and guidance through social posts, blogs and Christian apparel and products.This work contains Music Track The 126ers - Winds of Spring that is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license. Source: https://directory.audio/free-music/pop/5092-the-126ers-winds-of-springAuthor: The 126ers#christ #christian #christianity #christianblog #christianblogger #verses #bible #bibleinspiration #bibletime #jesusistheway #biblestudy #dailybible #newtestament #oldtestament #thebible #christ #jesuschrist #holybible #lukewarm #christians #christianpodcast #christmas

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

Are You Prepared to Face Your Death? Have You Prepared Your Family for Your Death and Led them on a Path to Their Eternal Life? MESSAGE SUMMARY: Most of us do not like to think about and plan for death, especially our own. However, Paul in. Romans 6:23, made your life and death position very clear: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.". As part of your preparations for eternity, you should take one time each year to evaluate and to reflect on your position for facing death and realizing eternal life by identifying those changes that you must make in your life and in your relationship with God. This preparation for your death will be a blessing for you and your family. Are you prepared to face your death? Will you have eternal life? What about those you leave behind – are you being a good steward?  Also, what about your family? Is your family prepared for your earthly death and their earthly death; and have you led your family on a path to receive their eternal life? In Matthew 28:18, Jesus gave us His Great Commission for your life focus: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.". Have you followed Jesus' Great Commission, for your own family, by making disciples of your family members?     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, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Inadequacy. Rather, I will abide in the Lord's Abundance. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Romans 5:12-15; Romans 7:24-25; Matthew 28:18-20; Psalms 147:1-20. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Five Needs of Fathers” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

By Mary Lindow Hello to all of you who are listening via podcast today or who are reading this message! I just finished being a part of our weekly prayer gathering this evening, and I have to tell you, the presence of the Father was so absolutely strong and evident in our time together! I am literally to the point that I anticipate all day long on Thursday evenings, getting together with the group that we pray with.    We have been blessed week after week, month after month with the sweet and strong presence of God as we intercede for our nation, for the globe, and for so many other things that the Lord lays on our hearts to pray about.   I HAVE BEEN WORKING ON THE PODCAST THAT I HAD TALKED ABOUT EARLIER. I am still trying to get it to compile and come together and I know that if I rush this, I will not share it in the light of how the Lord wants it to be presented properly.   BUT, I HAVE BEEN HAVING ANOTHER MESSAGE AND WORD FROM THE LORD STIRRING DEEP WITHIN MY SPIRIT, AND SO THAT IS WHAT I'M GOING TO SHARE WITH YOU TODAY. Hearing God accurately in the mess and chaos that the world is in right now, is of huge importance!  May the Lord continue to use you all to proclaim and speak truth, no matter what the cost. It is so worth being called a servant of the Lord during hard and challenging times.   TODAY, I'M GOING TO TALK WITH YOU ABOUT WHAT IT MEANS TO BE IN A PLACE OF SAFETY, A PLACE, OR A “HAVEN” OF BEING SHELTERED BY THE LORD. Especially during very, very difficult and hard times. I'll share how to discern and hear His voice in the chaos of the nonstop noise the dark world bombards us all with. It's ratcheted up to crazy levels, and shouts loudly to attempt to distract us from discerning the times, and hopes to discourage us and knock us off balance with fear, and then rob our peace.   IT'S OBVIOUS THAT THE EARTH IS IN ONE MASSIVE UPHEAVAL, AND NO MATTER WHERE YOU TURN RIGHT NOW, THE CRISES CONTINUE TO MOUNT AND BOIL! And so, people begin to put aside spending time in the word of God, and certainly in his presence, to spend time with the love of the Internet and scrolling through their telephones through social network information and high charged doomsday podcasts and videos. This can absolutely create stress and anxiety, and it also creates a terrible problem with comparing ourselves to other people and where we are at in life.   PRAYER IS NOT A BORING HARD THING WHEN YOU REALIZE  THAT YOU ARE FACE-TO-FACE, OR LITERALLY,  “PRESENCE TO PRESENCE” WITH THE FATHER.   A tremendous man who walked daily in the Presence of God, Andrew Murray, said in a book that he wrote,  “It's one of the terrible marks of the diseased state of the Christian life in these days that there are so many that are content, and remain passive and content, without the distinct occasion of having experienced answered prayer. They pray daily, but know very little of direct, definite answers to prayer as the rule of their daily life.”    Psalm Thirty verse four says, “I sought the Lord and he answered me.”   We must understand that it's the Father's will that WE SEEK HIM OUT to daily have dialogue with his will, and it's his will to have his children to listen to him and then, he listens to his children and agrees to their requests. It's his will that we should come to him day by day, with specific requests, and he will every day, do for us great and wonderful things! What we ask sometimes might be a case where the specific answer is that he refuses our request, but our Father lets us know when and why he can't give us what we request. It's like his Son Jesus, and so we will withdraw our petition or our request.   When did Jesus do that? Jesus said in the Garden of Gethsemane, “If this cup could pass from me, but not my will, but your will be done.”  He said this to the Father.   WHETHER OUR REQUEST IS ACCORDING TO GOD'S WILL OR NOT, GOD WILL BY HIS WORD AND BY HIS SPIRIT, TEACH THOSE OF US WHO ARE TEACHABLE, and he will give us time to withdraw our requests if they're not according to God‘s mind or purposes.   LET'S PRESS IN. LET'S JUST STAND FIRM UNTIL THE ANSWER COMES! PRAYER IS GIVEN TO US TO OBTAIN AN ANSWER! It's in prayer and its answer, that the exchange of love between the Father and we his children takes place.   MY QUESTION IS, “ARE YOUR  PRAYERS BEING ANSWERED?” During the last hours of the age that we're in, there will be two opposing groups or alliances in the world.    The First group are those whose hearts are absolutely overwrought with bitterness, resentment and hatred.   The Second group is those whose love has actually increased, and are experiencing the power of the Kingdom of God, now!   Jesus told us about this in Matthew in chapter 4:10-13. He said, “At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people.  Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” And then in Matthew 24:14 he added, “This gospel (good news) of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world for a witness to all the nations and then the end shall come.”   SO, THE BIG QUESTION IS... ...“WHAT IS THIS GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM?”  It's the whole truth Jesus came to bring, not only that part that saves us from our sins, but also that part which creates us in his image! It's the full message, the full good news with all its requirements and all of its rewards!  It's is the full price for the full power! It's the most glorious pearl that a person can possess. The presence of God in His glory, revealed, made known within and among us!   IF WE WANT TO GAIN THIS GREAT LOVE, WE WILL CONTINUALLY BE FORCED TO MAKE CHOICES TOWARD MERCY, OR, TOWARD UNFORGIVENESS, and if we don't walk in a forgiving attitude, we will certainly become prey to an embittered spirit, if it's in fact, God‘s plan to allow wickedness and holiness at the same time,  so they grow to full maturity.   We must guard our hearts ahead of time from reacting in bitterness or unforgiveness because the increasing anarchy will certainly give us occasions to lose love, with the attempt to make us hard so we can survive in this cruel world.   WE OFTEN WITHDRAW FROM THE GENUINENESS OF PURE LOVE! We can't choose cautious, selective love, and also walk in the power of God's kingdom, my friends! To defy pain, we sometimes unconsciously shut down our love, because after all, its love that makes us vulnerable.   GOD WANTS US TO BE A PEOPLE WHOSE LOVE IS GROWING HOT, NOT COLD. Jesus didn't say that we had to trust our enemies, but he did say that we had to love them anyhow. You might be asking why!  One reason God allows difficulties is to test us! ( I know! I know! We don't want to hear that! ) He wants to see if our Christianity is just an intellectual pursuit or just thoughts and feelings of the mind, or if following him is truly the highest passion of our hearts. So, he tells us in Matthew 5:44, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Wow!    SOME OF YOU HAVE GONE THROUGH REJECTION AND BETRAYAL MOST LIKELY. The Lord says to you today, “You did not fail, you have continued to love, and although you went through great pain, yet you have forgiven, those who have hurt you.”  My friends you have passed the test.   THERE ARE HOWEVER, SOME OF YOU LISTENING OR READING THAT STILL HAVE CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS IN YOUR LIVES THAT YOU HAVE NOT FORGIVEN, AND WHOM YOU DO NOT LOVE.  Maybe you're right, they don't deserve your forgiveness, but what you don't realize is the consequence of your anger. You see, as long as we refuse to forgive, a part of this is trapped in the past where you will always be reminded of your pain, and until we forgive, we will not be fully released to go on with our life. Even the time of year in which you were hurt will bring depression.   THERE'S ONLY ONE WAY WE CAN HAVE TRUE FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD AND THAT IS IN THE HERE AND NOW, RIGHT NOW, LIVING IN THE PRESENT. But if our mind is in conflict with others, we're neither here nor in the present. When we live in the past, we are cut off from God! What people did to us to hurt us is over! It's done; it doesn't have any real existence or life of its own, except in your mind.   SO THERE WITHIN US, THE DEED CONTINUES TO LIVE AND FESTER AND AS LONG AS IT LIVES, WE'RE STILL BEING HURT BY IT. The person or the people who wounded you may have long since died. They can't be blamed because it's us who keeps our wounds alive. Not only is the quality of our spiritual life affected, but often our physical health pays a price as well!   As long as we keep holding onto the burden of what someone has done to us, every time we think about it or think about that person, the stomach acids start to churn and anxiety increases, and then of course our body is continually put under stress.   If we don't forgive those who have hurt us, we lose a measure of our capacity to love and whether they deserve forgiveness or not, we deserve a better life! God wants to give you a better life but you can't enjoy abundant life and carry unforgiveness, because we're shackled to something that was hurting us. Did you know that our own unforgiveness tortures us?   SO HOW DO YOU GET OUT OF THAT PRISON?  HOW DO YOU FIND THE PROTECTION OF GOD FOR YOUR SOUL?    Well, God calls us to forgive. You have to see the hands of God reaching to you in the midst of your pain. He wants to redeem that conflict using that specific crisis or hardship to develop and perfect character in you. It will be this experience that he will use to make you like Jesus. To become like Jesus is to dwell, to live, in the place of rest and the safety of God. Every time we say, “Father, I choose to love. I choose to forgive. I choose to forget and not hold it against this person”, we are taking on the nature of Jesus. Friends, rejoice that Jesus is taking over your heart. You are entering into the strong, safe haven of God's shelter.   I DO MANY THINGS THAT THE LORD HAS ASSIGNED ME TO DO IN LIFE NOT ONLY AS A MINISTER, BUT ALSO AS A PASTORAL COUNSELOR. I also host and facilitate a group called “The international Prophetic Women's Mentoring Council.” This is a group of women from all walks of life several cultural groups and different backgrounds. We meet through zoom video sessions and individually. The thing that is “the glue that bonds us” is the fact that each of us have been called into ministry, and each of these women flows in a different expression of the prophetic gift. This past week we had a zoom session and our conversation and subject matter was regarding, the power of intercession and what it takes to approach the Face of God, in a right attitude.   One of the things that stood out so strongly in our time of dialogue and accountability to one another was the fact that in order to hear clearly from the Spirit of God, we need to have the inward witness, or the “inside part of us that communicates with God”, clearly in a place of submission and humility before him, and, that we first come into a place where we have asked the Lord to cleanse us. That means cleanse our hearts before we try to come to Him in prayer.   MANY PEOPLE DON'T KNOW HOW TO HEAR THE VOICE OF GOD. They seek it through quick daily devotionals, or they seek the voice of God through other people every day, instead of seeking the Lord himself. The scripture tells us clearly in John 10:4-5, “His sheep know his voice, and strange voices, they will not follow.”   SO WHAT ARE THE STRANGE VOICES? The voices from the external world that are constantly pumping us full of data, fear, rhetoric and forced compliance to social conditioning. If we choose to listen to the voice of strangers, then we move further away from being sheep in the pasture of the Lord.   SO HOW DO WE KNOW HIS VOICE? How do we discern that it's him? The number one thing, is that God always speaks life. He always speaks truth. And when God speaks, it brings peace, even in the midst of hard difficulties or hard decisions. An absolute solid peace comes and says, “This is the way, and this is what you have to do!” Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, "This is the way you should go,” whether to the right or to the left. That's Isaiah 30:21.   THE HOLY SPIRIT LIVES IN YOU. God absolutely wants to direct your life through your decision-making. The Holy Spirit guides us in our spirits (not through our physical body). The Number One way The Holy Spirit leads and guides us is through what the Bible calls, the “Inward Witness.” Proverbs 3:6 says,  “Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.”   WHAT IS AN INNER OR INWARD WITNESS? An inner witness is an impression, or a sense or perception on the inside of you. Romans 8:16 tells us, “For his Spirit joins with our spirit, to affirm, to confirm, that we are God's children.” Jeremiah 7:23-24 says this to us,  “But this is what I commanded them, saying, ‘Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you will be My people; and you shall walk entirely in the way which I command you, so that it may go well for you.'  Yet, they did not obey or incline their ear, but walked by their own advice and in the stubbornness of their evil hearts, and they went backward and not forward.   AS KINGDOM PEOPLE, WE'RE NOT LED BY OUR SENSES. We're not led by our ears or our eyes. We're led by our spirit. When we talk about hearing God, we're not talking about hearing God with our physical ears. We're talking about hearing Him in our spirit.  Here's a great example:  The Apostle Paul had been arrested and he was headed to his trial. Before he took the journey he sensed something in his spirit. He wasn't the captain of the ship, but he sensed something in his spirit.  In Acts 27:10, Apostle Paul said, "Men, I perceive we're going to face a disaster and heavy losses on this voyage. This disaster will cause damage to the cargo and the ship, and it will affect our lives." It wasn't long before the ship hit a cyclone, but an angel appeared and guaranteed Paul that everyone would make it, and they did! What was it that what Paul said in the beginning? “I perceive".   This is what we're looking at right now. We're talking about being led by the Spirit of God, no matter what circumstance or difficulty we might encounter.   BEING A PERSON WHO IS CALLED TO A PROPHETIC MINISTRY, I AM CLEARLY AWARE OF THE FACT THAT 90% OF WHAT I DO, ALSO COMES FROM TEACHING PEOPLE FROM THE WORD OF GOD REGARDING HOW TO  “HEAR” THE VOICE OF GOD.   My job is not to be a telephone for people to connect to God with, nor simply through prophesying. This is not going to change lives long term if the word of God is not taught and also if people don't act on it and obey it.   I HAVE HAD SOME STRANGE ENCOUNTERS WITH PEOPLE WHO THINK THAT I HAVE SOME KIND OF HOTLINE OR SATELLITE CONNECTION TO GOD TO HELP THEM GET ANSWERS. They need something or want to hear what the Lord has for them by asking me for a prophetic word. My friends this is not how the prophetic word of knowledge or word of wisdom works!  I had a lady when we were Pastoring a local fellowship come up to me after the service and she asked me if I would please, “do whatever I do, do that thing that I do”, and see if God would show me where she had put her wedding ring. She had lost it. I remember feeling very uncomfortable and a cold chill went through my body! My thought process was, “this woman wants me to be like a palm reader, or a magic eight ball! She wants me to use divination to find her wedding ring!“ Very kindly but firmly I told the woman, “You can ask the Lord to show you where it is yourself, or just simply go on looking for it. Pray that the Lord would lead you to it, but to ask me to ask the Holy Spirit to show me where it is, is basically trying to use another voice to speak to God for you when you can speak on your own to him.”   THERE ARE TIMES, WHEN GOD WILL SPEAK A WORD, AND IT IS DONE THROUGH A PROPHETIC UTTERANCE, and it gives us a word of knowledge about something or a word of wisdom about a specific event where we need to have insight, but it will always confirm with the Spirit of God what he has already put down on the inside of us that we can't seem to quite untangle, until the prophetic word comes and brings a clarity to it.   SOMETIMES THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL HAVE SOMEONE BRING A PROPHETIC WORD THAT COMES IN THE FORM OF LOVING CORRECTION, BUT IT IS STILL CORRECTION, AND PEOPLE GET ANGRY AND SHOUT, “HOW DARE YOU JUDGE ME! Who are you to judge me?!”   Of course what this is a reaction to being caught out in bad behavior or hidden sin, and the Lord gently, lovingly, brings a word of warning.   ALL OF US KNOW WHEN WE SLIP AWAY FROM SPENDING TIME IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD. We know when we slack off from reading the scripture and from meditating on it, letting the Holy Spirit speak through the word to us. This is where the areas of bitterness and lack of purity in our walk with the Lord get all tangled up.   FRIENDS.  ASK THE HOLY SPIRIT TO TEACH YOU HOW TO BE LED BY HIM. (By the way, you might need a refreshing of your commitment to only follow his voice.) You don't need a prophet to hear from God for you, or have a constant prophetic word to make decisions. Simply say these words. “Holy Spirit, teach me how to be led by you.” Then, before you make any major decisions, acknowledge God. Say, “God, this is what the situation is,  >  insert your situation  

Today,we're focusing on verses 14–16, which say, "When the hour had come, He,Jesus, sat down, and the twelve apostles with Him. Then He said to them, 'Withfervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer.For I say to you, I will no longer eat of it until it is fulfilled in thekingdom of God.'" Most Bible scholars believe that the following verses17–20, which describe the institution of the Lord's Supper, take place at theend of the supper, so we'll come back to those verses. Toget the full glimpse of what is taking place we remember that that it is Thursdayevening, which would have been the Jewish Friday, because sundown begins thenext day for the Jewish people. We also believe these events took place in theupper room in the city of Jerusalem. Whenever I have visited Israel we always goto this location I Jerusalem, not the same building, but an upper room where wetake the Lord's Supper with our tour group. Webelieve that's what takes place in verses 17–20. But before Jesus institutedthe Lord's Supper, the Lord has the Jewish Passover supper with His disciples. Rememberthat Jesus sent Peter and John ahead to prepare for this supper. The lamb hasbeen slaughtered and roasted. Some tell us that the lamb was roasted with apomegranate stick stuck through the middle and another crossway through thelamb, then roasted over the fire for the Passover meal—a picture of the crossof Christ, suffering on a cross, crucified for our sins and your sins. Inverse 14, it says, "When the hour had come," and we've talkedabout the hour that Jesus knew would be on that day, an hour that He would goto a cross and suffer. During this time, the Passover supper takes place inthis upper room. If you want to read the details of what was said in the upperroom, go to John chapters 13, 14, 15, 16, and possibly even chapter 17, whereJesus prays His High Priestly Prayer. We know that prayer could have takenplace in the upper room or on the way to Gethsemane when He left, because John18:1 says, “When Jesus had spoken these words, He went out with His disciplesover the Brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which He and His disciplesentered.” Somethingelse to notice in John chapter 13: the first thing Jesus did when they enteredthe room, as the host of the Passover dinner, was kiss each of the disciples,which means He would have kissed Judas, whom He knew would betray Him. Somebelieve Judas sat on His left and John on His right, as described in John12:23. In the upper room, Jesus washes the disciples' feet giving them anexample of humility. Which apparently the disciples didn't learn from it. Becauselater, after the Passover meal, the disciples argue over who's going to begreatest in the kingdom (Luke 22:24-30).  InJohn 14, Jesus tells the disciples not to let their hearts be troubled and givesthem the promise of heaven, the promise that He will come again, and thepromise of the Holy Spirit. In John 15, Jesus gives the message of abiding inHim—He is the vine, and we are the branches. In John 16, He goes into detailabout the Holy Spirit, the Comforter who will come and be with them. Jesusknows the hour has come and says, “I will no longer eat of it until it isfulfilled in the kingdom of God."(v.16). Jesus no doubt said this because He knew this Passover time would fulfillall the Old Testament scriptures of the Passover Lamb. Jesus, that PassoverLamb, is the last Passover. In verses 17–20, we see the institution of theLord's Supper, which is now left for us, the church. Theseare very interesting scriptures. I trust you will get a glimpse into thesuffering of our Lord and understand what He did for you and me in a specialand unique way. Godbless!

Pastor Michael Kisaka points to Jesus' own agony in the garden to show that God fully entered human suffering and provides an enduring hope through Christ's resurrection.

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.