Podcasts about god matthew

What does it take to go from tearing down the church to building it up? In this episode, we explore Saul's dramatic encounter with Jesus in Acts 9 and how it completely redefined his identity, purpose, and leadership. If you've ever felt unqualified, disqualified, or too flawed to lead, Paul's story is for you.  Reflection What part of your past are you allowing to disqualify you? Where might God be calling you to lead, but fear is holding you back? How would your leadership shift if you fully believed that grace has made you new? Take a moment today to sit with that. Journal. Pray. And remember: If God could transform Saul into Paul, He can surely use you.   Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders It's time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence!    Learn how to identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38); renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21). You'll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role. Book your confidence coaching session   Have a listener question? Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com   Next steps:  1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can: Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here.  Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers. 2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall 3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan

  MIRACLE MINDEDNESS God's Desire for Us God wants us to be miracle-minded. A miracle is the supernatural intervention of God in the affairs of men. The Importance of Miracles In times of crisis, knowing that you serve a miracle-working God is crucial. Without miracles, you are not living the Christian life. Miracles make God God in your life. When God decides to be God, miracles become rampant. Types of Miracles Healing Miracle: Miracles of healing and restoration. Material Miracle: Miracles of material provision (John 9:6-13). Financial Miracle: Miracles of financial provision (Matthew 17:25). Business Miracle: Miracles in business and finances. Academic Miracle: Miracles of academic excellence and understanding. Deliverance Miracle: Miracles of deliverance from bondage and oppression. Major Miracle: Big and mighty miracles. How to Access Miracles Have Faith in Prayer: Have faith in prayer (Mark 11:24). Believe in the Word of God: Believe in the word of God (Romans 4:18). Believe in the Word of the Man of God: Believe in the word of the man of God (Matthew 8:8).

  MIRACLE MINDEDNESS God's Desire for Us God wants us to be miracle-minded. A miracle is the supernatural intervention of God in the affairs of men. The Importance of Miracles In times of crisis, knowing that you serve a miracle-working God is crucial. Without miracles, you are not living the Christian life. Miracles make God God in your life. When God decides to be God, miracles become rampant. Types of Miracles Healing Miracle: Miracles of healing and restoration. Material Miracle: Miracles of material provision (John 9:6-13). Financial Miracle: Miracles of financial provision (Matthew 17:25). Business Miracle: Miracles in business and finances. Academic Miracle: Miracles of academic excellence and understanding. Deliverance Miracle: Miracles of deliverance from bondage and oppression. Major Miracle: Big and mighty miracles. How to Access Miracles Have Faith in Prayer: Have faith in prayer (Mark 11:24). Believe in the Word of God: Believe in the word of God (Romans 4:18). Believe in the Word of the Man of God: Believe in the word of the man of God (Matthew 8:8).

How can you partner with the Holy Spirit to improve your leadership? Listen as I talk to Dr. Deanna Shrodes on her own journey, partnering with the Holy Spirit and her new book, which was released on 8 April 2025! We also discuss one of the most amazing miracles that Deanna experienced and how it could only have been God who made that miracle happen! I can't wait for you to listen! Connect with Deanna PF Women Stronger Leadership Podcast Facebook Buy Deanna's book: Uncommon Answers: Partnering with the Holy Spirit to Receive Extraordinarily More   Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders It's time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence!  Learn how to identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38); renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21). You'll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role. Book your confidence coaching session   Have a listener question? Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com   Next steps:  1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can: Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here.  Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers. 2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall 3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan

Here are the three points from Greg's message: Everything that happened to Jesus was according to God's eternal plan Everything that happened to Jesus was for us and our salvation Christian, this is your identity! You can watch this message here.

Chris Miller returns to the pulpit to continue our study in Matthew and the Sermon on the Mount.

March 30, 2025 - Rev. Alexander S. Brown

Have you ever had a difficult conversation with an employee or a colleague just for it to go really really badly? And as you reflect on it, you think: "Oh, I should have said this or that! Or I shouldn't have said that!" In today's coaching session with my client Cat, we discussed her self-doubt, how she currently navigates difficult conversations and what strategies she could implement to improve this skill and navigate difficult conversations with more confidence! This is only a snippet of the whole coaching call but I pray that this blesses you! Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders It's time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence!  Learn how to identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38); renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21). You'll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role. Book your confidence coaching session   Have a listener question? Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com   Next steps:  1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can: Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here.  Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers. 2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall 3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan

"Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him." James 1:12  “Temptation is the fire that forges resolve; it reveals the purity of one's intentions and the resilience of one's spirit.” This quote encapsulates the essence of our spiritual journey, where each trial we face serves as a challenge and an opportunity for growth. In Matthew 4:1-11, Jesus exemplifies this truth when He confronts temptation in the wilderness. His faith and reliance on God's Word give us a powerful model to emulate in our struggles. As we navigate through life, we will inevitably encounter temptations that seek to divert us from our divine path. However, just as Jesus resisted the snares of the enemy by quoting Scripture, we too can fortify ourselves with God's promises. “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). By immersing ourselves in His Word, we cultivate a strong foundation that enables us to stand firm against any allurements that may arise. Genesis 39:9 says, Joseph, resisting Potiphar's wife's advances, states, "He is not greater in this house than I am, nor has he kept back anything from me except you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?" Consider the story of Joseph, who faced immense temptation while serving in Potiphar's house. Despite the pressures and the potential for immediate gratification, Joseph chose integrity over indulgence, declaring, “How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9). His decision not only demonstrated his faith but also set the stage for God to elevate him to a position of great influence. This illustrates that resisting temptation often leads to greater blessings and purpose. Daily, we must remind ourselves that faith should always come first. When we prioritize our relationship with God and seek His guidance, the grip of temptation weakens. Let us embrace the divine principle from James 4:17; it will empower us to confront challenges confidently, knowing that we are never alone in our struggles. Amen.  James 4:7 says, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Amen. Prayer for the Day!Heavenly Father, thank You for being our ever-present help in moments of trial. Grant us the wisdom to recognize temptations when they arise and the courage to resist them as Jesus did. Help us to rely on Your Word and walk steadfastly in Your ways. May our faith shine brightly as a testament to Your love and grace. In Jesus' name, Amen. 

Send us a textMatthew 12:50 says "For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother." Jesus is not dismissing his family or saying they have no part with Him, but He is saying His true (spiritual) family are those who have trusted in Him as their Lord and Savior.  It is not those who try to do good things, go to church, get baptized or take communion who are the family of Christ, but it is those who have trusted in Him and because of that they do His will.  That is, they keep His commandments, no, not perfectly, no one does this on earth, we will be perfect in heaven but our want to's, our desires are to please God.  Not because we have to but because we want to as we have been changed from the inside by the Holy Spirit who now lives in us because we are saved. All throughout the New Testament the Bible says those that know Christ live differently because of their salvation.  You can't be a Christian and not have your life change.  It is impossible.  Over and over again Jesus would say “But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,' and not do the things which I say (Luke 6:46)? Trust Him today and become part of His family.     Mark 8:36 "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?             John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. Have you trusted Him as your Savior? He can Save you if You ask Him based on His death, burial, and resurrection for your sins. Believe in Him for forgiveness of your sins today.               “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”  -John 8:32           Our mission is to spread the gospel and to go to the least of these with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ; We reach out to those the World has forgotten.              hisloveministries.podbean.com #HLMSocial hisloveministries.nethttps://www.instagram.com/hisloveministries1/?hl=en His Love Ministries on Itunes Don't go for all the gusto you can get, go for all the God (Jesus Christ) you can get. The gusto will get you, Jesus can save you. https://www.facebook.com/His-Love-Ministries-246606668725869/?tn-str=k*F            The world is trying to solve earthly problems that can only be solved with heavenly solutions

A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.

This week, we look at young Jeremiah, a prophet called by God, who believed he was too young and unqualified to lead God's people.    God came and said to Jeremiah: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." (Jeremiah 1:5)   Jeremiah's response? "Ah, Sovereign Lord, I do not know how to speak; I am too young." (Jeremiah 1:6)   Sound familiar? Maybe you've thought: I'm too inexperienced. I'm not a strong enough leader. What if I fail?   But God's response to Jeremiah was powerful: "Do not say, ‘I am too young.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you." (Jeremiah 1:7-8)   Jeremiah doubted himself, but God didn't. God didn't see his age as a limitation—He saw His own power working through Jeremiah.   HOW DOES THIS APPLY TO YOU? How often do we disqualify ourselves before we even begin? Maybe you feel like you're too young, too old, too inexperienced, or just not enough to lead in the way God is calling you. But here's the truth: ✅ Your calling isn't based on your resume—it's based on God's plan. ✅ God doesn't choose leaders based on experience—He equips those He calls. ✅ If He's calling you, He will strengthen you! How can you take action today? 1️⃣ Identify the excuses you've been using – What's your “I'm too young” excuse? I'm not confident enough? I'm not skilled enough? Name it. 2️⃣ Replace doubt with God's truth – Meditate on Jeremiah 1:7-8. God is with you! 3️⃣ Take one bold step – What's one action you can take this week toward the leadership role God is calling you into?   Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders It's time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence!  Learn how to: identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38); renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21). You'll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role. Book your confidence coaching session   Have a listener question? Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com   Next steps:  1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can: Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here.  Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers. 2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall 3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan    

As we continue to study the Sermon on the Mount, we see Christ elaborate further on how genuine citizens of the kingdom do not practise their righteousness to be seen by others. In Matthew 6:5–8, Jesus addresses the critical distinction between hypocritical and righteous prayer. He shows how prayers motivated by a desire for public admiration or a transactional approach are empty and offensive. Conversely, he emphasises the nature of genuine prayer as intimate communion with the Father, a natural expression of a believer's relationship with God. Jesus underscores the reality that true prayer is not about the perfection of words or the performance of piety, but is rather an exercise of faith rooted in a transformed heart. We consider this text under two broad headings: 1.⁠ ⁠Hypocritical prayer (vv. 5, 7) a. Practice of piety b. Perfection of words 2.⁠ ⁠Righteous prayer (vv. 6, 8)

Today’s Bible Verse: “Jesus replied, “Do what you came for, friend.” Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him." - Matthew 26:50

We're continuing our series on the bible's most reluctant leaders. This week, we are looking at Jonah.  Jonah ran away from God when God called him. He was reluctant and didn't want to do it. But Jonah had to learn the hard way. He had to go through stormy seas and be swallowed by a huge fish, for Him to realise that he can't run away from God's call.   However, God was gracious, as always, and the fish spat Jonah out and he made his way to the town of Ninevah, where he had to tell the people to repent.    Lessons from Jonah's story:   Running from God's Call Brings Storms God's Grace Finds Us Even in Our Lowest Moments. Obedience is more important then our own comfort zones Let's reflect: Where are you resisting God's call? Is there something He's asking you to do that you've been avoiding? How is your disobedience affecting those around you? Like Jonah's storm, are your actions creating unnecessary struggles? Are you willing to say ‘yes' to God, even when it's uncomfortable? Take Action: Identify an area where you've been resisting God's leading. Pray and ask for courage to take a step forward. Surrender your fears and trust that God's plans are greater than your own. Take one obedient step this week—whether it's having a hard conversation, stepping into a leadership role, or simply saying ‘yes' to what God is asking. Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders It's time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence!  Learn how to identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38); renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21). You'll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role. Book your confidence coaching session   Have a listener question? Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com   Next steps:  1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can: Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here.  Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers. 2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall 3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan  

Join us every Sunday at 10am at River of Life church in Guilderland, NY Find us online at facebook.com/riveralbany or riveralbany.com. Podcasts of the Sunday message can be found on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, YT music, or Soundcloud.

Our city is filled with entertainment, pleasure, and the best food and drink. If we are not careful we can allow the pursuit of these things to become the main focus in life. Jesus wants his followers to prioritize their relationship with God over the amusements of our city. In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus calls his followers to fasting, an often neglected practice that intensifies our desires for more of God. 

In today's podcast episode, I chat with Tamara Jackson about slowing down and connecting with God throughout your day. We also discussed how leaders could slow down to avoid burnout and what to do in tough situations where they need to make a decision but don't know what to do or say or what decision to make and some strategies to help you go to God and seek His help. Connect with Tamara Jackson: Website Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders It's time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence!  Learn how to: identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38); renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21). You'll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role. Book your confidence coaching session   Next steps:  1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can: Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here.  Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers. 2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall 3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan  

Matthew 22: 34-40

Did you know that Gideon really struggled with self-doubt? So much so, that he actually hid from God. He didn't believe he was worthy to do the job that God called him to do and he had ALL SORTS of excuses as to why God should not choose him.  God's response to Gideon pushing back isn't about who Gideon is; it's about who God is. Maybe today, you're waiting for a sign. Maybe you need confirmation that God has really called you to lead, to speak, to step up in faith. Let Gideon's story remind you—God is patient with our doubts. So, what can we learn from Gideon? 1. God sees more in you than you see in yourself. You might feel weak, but God calls you mighty. You might feel unqualified, but God equips those He calls. 2. God is patient with your doubts. It's okay if you don't feel ready. God can handle your questions, your fears, and even your hesitation. 3. Victory doesn't depend on your strength—it depends on God's power. Gideon didn't win because he had the biggest army—he won because he trusted God. Your leadership isn't about having all the answers—it's about trusting the One who does. Let's reflect: Where in your leadership are you feeling small, weak, or unqualified What is God calling you to step into, even if it scares you? I want to challenge you this week—pray about your fears, your doubts, and your insecurities. And then, take a step forward. Even if it's small, even if you're unsure—trust that God is with you, just as He was with Gideon. Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders It's time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence!  Learn how to identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38); renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21). You'll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role. Book your confidence coaching session   Next steps:  1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can: Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here.  Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers. 2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall 3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan

Subscribe to our channel:https://www.youtube.com/shepherdshouseazSermon Notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EN_yq8K4866kIZF0XiemTNucBtFmUzcW/view?usp=drive_linkFor more information about Shepherd's House Bible Church or to help support this ministry, please visit us at www.shepherdsaz.orgWebsite: shepherdsaz.orgInstagram: @shepherdshouseazFacebook: /shepherdshouseazTiktok: @shepherdshouseazYoutube: /shepherdshouseaz

As Jesus' ministry continues, the criticisms of the Pharisees and scribes sharpen—but Jesus meets them head-on. Their complaint about the disciples transgressing the tradition of the elders gives Jesus the opportunity to reveal the way they circumvent God's law and seek to replace it with human authority. His words give us occasion to reflect on our own tendency to substitute the demands of God's law with a different set of rules we believe we can keep, instead of setting our hearts on Jesus' fulfilling of the law in our place.

Join us on Patreon for Daily Prayer Matins - Friday after Ash WednesdayIn the Name of the Father and of + the Son and of the Holy Spirit.Amen.The Invitatory and PsalterLord, open our lips.And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.O God, make speed to save us;O Lord, make haste to help us. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,world without end. AmenPraise the Lord;The Lord's name be praised ¶ Then follows the Invitatory Psalm with a Lenten antiphon.  Lenten AntiphonThe Lord is full of compassion and mercy: Come let us adore him. VeniteCome, let us sing to the Lord; * let us shout for joy to the Rock of our salvation.Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving * and raise a loud shout to him with psalms.For the Lord is a great God, * and a great King above all gods.In his hand are the caverns of the earth, * and the heights of the hills are his also.The sea is his, for he made it, * and his hands have molded the dry land.Come, let us bow down, and bend the knee, * and kneel before the Lord our Maker.For he is our God,and we are the people of his pasture and the sheep of his hand. * Oh, that today you would hearken to his voice!Harden not your hearts,as your forebears did in the wilderness, *at Meribah, and on that day at Massah,when they tempted me.They put me to the test, * though they had seen my works.Forty years long I detested that generation and said, * "This people are wayward in their hearts;they do not know my ways.”So I swore in my wrath, * "They shall not enter into my rest.”Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,world without end. Amen Lenten AntiphonThe Lord is full of compassion and mercy: Come let us adore him. The PsalmsAntiphon 1They gave me gall to eat, and when I was thirsty they gave me vinegar to drink. Psalm 69:1-23Save me, O God, for the waters have risen up to my neck.I am sinking in deep mire, and there is no firm ground for my feet.I have come into deep waters, and the torrent washes over me.I have grown weary with my crying; my throat is inflamed; my eyes have failed from looking for my God.Those who hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of my head; my lying foes who would destroy me are mighty. Must I then give back what I never stole?O God, you know my foolishness, and my faults are not hidden from you.Let not those who hope in you be put to shame through me, Lord God of hosts; let not those who seek you be disgraced because of me, O God of Israel.Surely, for your sake have I suffered reproach, and shame has covered my face.I have become a stranger to my own kindred, an alien to my mother's children.Zeal for your house has eaten me up; the scorn of those who scorn you has fallen upon me.I humbled myself with fasting, but that was turned to my reproach.I put on sack-cloth also, and became a byword among them.Those who sit at the gate murmur against me, and the drunkards make songs about me.But as for me, this is my prayer to you, at the time you have set, O Lord:“In your great mercy, O God, answer me with your unfailing help.Save me from the mire; do not let me sink; let me be rescued from those who hate me and out of the deep waters.Let not the torrent of waters wash over me, neither let the deep swallow me up; do not let the Pit shut its mouth upon me.Answer me, O Lord, for your love is kind; in your great compassion, turn to me.”“Hide not your face from your servant; be swift and answer me, for I am in distress.Draw near to me and redeem me; because of my enemies deliver me.You know my reproach, my shame, and my dishonor; my adversaries are all in your sight.”Reproach has broken my heart, and it cannot be healed; I looked for sympathy, but there was none, for comforters, but I could find no one.They gave me gall to eat, and when I was thirsty, they gave me vinegar to drink. Antiphon 1They gave me gall to eat, and when I was thirsty they gave me vinegar to drink.Antiphon 2Christ for us became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Psalm 117Praise the Lord, all you nations; laud him, all you peoples.For his loving-kindness toward us is great, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures for ever. Hallelujah! Antiphon 2Christ for us became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,world without end. Amen ReadingsRomans 15English Standard VersionWe who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God's truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written,“Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles,    and sing to your name.”And again it is said,“Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.”And again,“Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles,    and let all the peoples extol him.”And again Isaiah says,“The root of Jesse will come,    even he who arises to rule the Gentiles;in him will the Gentiles hope.”May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another. But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of reminder, because of the grace given me by God to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience—by word and deed, by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God—so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ; and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation, but as it is written,“Those who have never been told of him will see,    and those who have never heard will understand.”This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming to you. But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions, and since I have longed for many years to come to you, I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints. For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings. When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave for Spain by way of you. I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf, that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company. May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.The Word of the LordThanks be to God Matthew 25:1-30English Standard Version“Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them, but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a cry, ‘Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.' Then all those virgins rose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.' But the wise answered, saying, ‘Since there will not be enough for us and for you, go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves.' And while they were going to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut. Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.' But he answered, ‘Truly, I say to you, I do not know you.' Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.“For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master's money. Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.' His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.' And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.' His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.' He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.' But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents. For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'The Word of the LordThanks be to God Canticle #14 A Song of PenitenceO Lord and Ruler of the hosts of heaven, * God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and of all their righteous offspring:You made the heavens and the earth, * with all their vast array.All things quake with fear at your presence; *they tremble because of your power.But your merciful promise is beyond all measure; * it surpasses all that our minds can fathom.O Lord, you are full of compassion, *long-suffering, and abounding in mercy.You hold back your hand; *you do not punish as we deserve.In your great goodness, Lord,you have promised forgiveness to sinners, *that they may repent of their sin and be saved.And now, O Lord, I bend the knee of my heart, *and make my appeal, sure of your gracious goodness.I have sinned, O Lord, I have sinned, *and I know my wickedness only too well.Therefore I make this prayer to you: *Forgive me, Lord, forgive me.Do not let me perish in my sin, * nor condemn me to the depths of the earth.For you, O Lord, are the God of those who repent, * and in me you will show forth your goodness.Unworthy as I am, you will save me,in accordance with your great mercy, *and I will praise you without ceasing all the days of my life.For all the powers of heaven sing your praises, * and yours is the glory to ages of ages. Amen. The Apostles' CreedI believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. The PrayersThe Lord be with you.And with your spirit.Let us pray.Lord, have mercy upon us.Christ, have mercy upon us.Lord, have mercy upon us.Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. SuffragesShow us your mercy, O Lord;And grant us your salvation.Clothe your ministers with righteousness;Let your people sing with joy.Give peace, O Lord, in all the world;For only in you can we live in safety.Lord, keep this nation under your care;And guide us in the way of justice and truth.Let your way be known upon earth;Your saving health among all nations.Let not the needy, O Lord, be forgotten;Nor the hope of the poor be taken away.Create in us clean hearts, O God;And sustain us with your Holy Spirit. The CollectsCollect of the DayAlmighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. A Collect for PeaceO God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries; through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.A Collect for GraceLord God, almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought us in safety to this new day: Preserve us with your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.A Prayer for MissionLord Jesus Christ, you stretched out your arms of love on the hard wood of the cross that everyone might come within the reach of your saving embrace: So clothe us in your Spirit that we, reaching forth our hands in love, may bring those who do not know you to the knowledge and love of you; for the honor of your Name. Amen. A time for intercessions and thanksgivings may follow. A Prayer of St. ChrysostomAlmighty God, you have given us grace at this time with one accord to make our common supplication to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will be in the midst of them: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen.Let us bless the Lord.Thanks be to God.May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.Romans 15:13

Seeing the Light of God (Matthew 17:1-8) | 030225 by One Ancient Hope Presbyterian Church

Matins - The Monday Before LentIn the Name of the Father and of + the Son and of the Holy Spirit.Amen. The Invitatory and PsalterLord, open our lips.And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.O God, make speed to save us;O Lord, make haste to help us. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,world without end. AmenPraise the Lord;The Lord's name be praised ¶ Then follows the Invitatory Psalm with a Lenten antiphon.  Lenten AntiphonThe Lord is full of compassion and mercy: Come let us adore him.VeniteCome, let us sing to the Lord; * let us shout for joy to the Rock of our salvation.Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving * and raise a loud shout to him with psalms.For the Lord is a great God, * and a great King above all gods.In his hand are the caverns of the earth, * and the heights of the hills are his also.The sea is his, for he made it, * and his hands have molded the dry land.Come, let us bow down, and bend the knee, * and kneel before the Lord our Maker.For he is our God,and we are the people of his pasture and the sheep of his hand. * Oh, that today you would hearken to his voice!Harden not your hearts,as your forebears did in the wilderness, *at Meribah, and on that day at Massah,when they tempted me.They put me to the test, * though they had seen my works.Forty years long I detested that generation and said, * "This people are wayward in their hearts;they do not know my ways.”So I swore in my wrath, * "They shall not enter into my rest.”Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,world without end. AmenLenten AntiphonThe Lord is full of compassion and mercy: Come let us adore him. The PsalmsAntiphon 1In the time of my trouble, I will call upon you, O Lord. Psalm 86:6-17Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer, and attend to the voice of my supplications.In the time of my trouble I will call upon you, for you will answer me.Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord,  nor anything like your works.All nations you have made will come and worship you, O Lord, and glorify your Name.For you are great; you do wondrous things;  and you alone are God.Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth;  knit my heart to you that I may fear your Name.I will thank you, O Lord my God, with all my heart,  and glorify your Name for evermore.For great is your love toward me;  you have delivered me from the nethermost Pit.The arrogant rise up against me, O God, and a band of violent men seeks my life;  they have not set you before their eyes.But you, O Lord, are gracious and full of compassion,  slow to anger, and full of kindness and truth.Turn to me and have mercy upon me;  give your strength to your servant;  and save the child of your handmaid.Show me a sign of your favor, so that those who hate me may see it and be ashamed;  because you, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me. Antiphon 1In the time of my trouble, I will cal upon you, O Lord.Antiphon 2Proclaim the greatness of the Lord our God, and worship him upon his holy hill. Psalm 99The Lord is King; let the people tremble;  he is enthroned upon the cherubim;  let the earth shake.The Lord is great in Zion;  he is high above all peoples.Let them confess his Name, which is great and awesome;  he is the Holy One."O mighty King, lover of justice, you have established equity;  you have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob."Proclaim the greatness of the Lord our God and fall down before his footstool;  he is the Holy One.Moses and Aaron among his priests, and Samuel among those who call upon his Name,  they called upon the Lord, and he answered them.He spoke to them out of the pillar of cloud;  they kept his testimonies and the decree that he gave them.“O Lord our God, you answered them indeed;  you were a God who forgave them,  yet punished them for their evil deeds.”Proclaim the greatness of the Lord our God and worship him upon his holy hill;  for the Lord our God is the Holy One.Antiphon 2Proclaim the greatness of the Lord our God, and worship him upon his holy hill.Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,world without end. Amen ReadingsRomans 12English Standard Version12 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. 4 For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, 5 so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. 6 Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; 7 if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; 8 the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.9 Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. 10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. 17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.The Word of the LordThanks be to God Matthew 23:13-39English Standard Version13 “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut the kingdom of heaven in people's faces. For you neither enter yourselves nor allow those who would enter to go in. 15 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you travel across sea and land to make a single proselyte, and when he becomes a proselyte, you make him twice as much a child of hell as yourselves.16 “Woe to you, blind guides, who say, ‘If anyone swears by the temple, it is nothing, but if anyone swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.' 17 You blind fools! For which is greater, the gold or the temple that has made the gold sacred? 18 And you say, ‘If anyone swears by the altar, it is nothing, but if anyone swears by the gift that is on the altar, he is bound by his oath.' 19 You blind men! For which is greater, the gift or the altar that makes the gift sacred? 20 So whoever swears by the altar swears by it and by everything on it. 21 And whoever swears by the temple swears by it and by him who dwells in it. 22 And whoever swears by heaven swears by the throne of God and by him who sits upon it.23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. 24 You blind guides, straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel!25 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and the plate, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. 26 You blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and the plate, that the outside also may be clean.27 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness. 28 So you also outwardly appear righteous to others, but within you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.29 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs of the prophets and decorate the monuments of the righteous, 30 saying, ‘If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.' 31 Thus you witness against yourselves that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. 32 Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers. 33 You serpents, you brood of vipers, how are you to escape being sentenced to hell? 34 Therefore I send you prophets and wise men and scribes, some of whom you will kill and crucify, and some you will flog in your synagogues and persecute from town to town, 35 so that on you may come all the righteous blood shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah the son of Barachiah, whom you murdered between the sanctuary and the altar. 36 Truly, I say to you, all these things will come upon this generation.37 “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! 38 See, your house is left to you desolate. 39 For I tell you, you will not see me again, until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.'”The Word of the LordThanks be to God Canticle #9 The First Song of IsaiahSurely, it is God who saves me; * I will trust in him and not be afraid.For the Lord is my stronghold and my sure defense, * and he will be my Savior.Therefore you shall draw water with rejoicing * from the springs of salvation.And on that day you shall say, * Give thanks to the Lord and call upon his Name;Make his deeds known among the peoples; * see that they remember that his Name is exalted.Sing the praises of the Lord, for he has done great things, * and this is known in all the world.Cry aloud, inhabitants of Zion, ring out your joy, * for the great one in the midst of you is the Holy One of Israel.Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,world without end. Amen The Apostles' CreedI believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. The PrayersThe Lord be with you.And with your spirit.Let us pray.Lord, have mercy upon us.Christ, have mercy upon us.Lord, have mercy upon us.Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. SuffragesShow us your mercy, O Lord;And grant us your salvation.Clothe your ministers with righteousness;Let your people sing with joy.Give peace, O Lord, in all the world;For only in you can we live in safety.Lord, keep this nation under your care;And guide us in the way of justice and truth.Let your way be known upon earth;Your saving health among all nations.Let not the needy, O Lord, be forgotten;Nor the hope of the poor be taken away.Create in us clean hearts, O God;And sustain us with your Holy Spirit. The CollectsCollect of the DayO Lord, you have taught us that whatever we do without love is worth nothing; Send your Holy Spirit, and pour into our hearts that most excellent gift of love, the very bond of peace and of all virtues, without which whoever lives is counted dead before you. Grant this for the sake of your only Son Jesus Christ. Amen.A Collect for PeaceO God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries; through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.A Collect for GraceLord God, almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought us in safety to this new day: Preserve us with your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.A Prayer for MissionLord Jesus Christ, you stretched out your arms of love on the hard wood of the cross that everyone might come within the reach of your saving embrace: So clothe us in your Spirit that we, reaching forth our hands in love, may bring those who do not know you to the knowledge and love of you; for the honor of your Name. Amen.A time for intercessions and thanksgivings may follow. A Prayer of St. ChrysostomAlmighty God, you have given us grace at this time with one accord to make our common supplication to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will be in the midst of them: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen.Let us bless the Lord.Thanks be to God. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.Romans 15:13

Erin Pacheco, Director of Worship

February 23, 2025 RIVERSIDE SUNDAY Seeds - Start small and trust God Matthew 13:31-33 Pastor Brian Kolling

The Intercession that Pleases God (Matthew 15:21-28) - Evening Sermon

Today I'm covering the sixth Beatitude which reads, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." Matthew 5:8 (NRSVUE) I asked Grok (X's AI) what it means to be "pure in heart" and this is the response I received: "To be 'pure in heart' is a phrase that often comes up in religious, philosophical, or moral contexts, most famously in the Bible's Beatitudes: "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God" (Matthew 5:8). At its core, it refers to having a sincere, untainted, and honest inner character—free from malice, deceit, or selfish motives. Think of it as someone whose intentions align with their actions, without hidden agendas or hypocrisy." That's not too bad. I didn't expect it to come up with a decent answer. It's possible to do good things with impure motivations so we have to check our desires and intention when doing good. How Can We Apply This to Pickleball? I forgot to put stuff here. Pickleball News The UPA-A implement a new rule this week to address "intentional or reckless targeting of an opponent above the shoulders." Players can be subject to a $2,500 fine and a point will be awarded to their opponent if a referee determines a player targeted their opponent above the shoulders. Pickleball Tip This week's pickleball tip comes from Zane Navratil and provides some great advice on when and how to approach the kitchen.  Zane reminds players to watch their partner and assess the type and quality of their 3rd shot while approaching the kitchen so you don't get caught out of position. Closing Remarks Next week we'll cover the seventh Beatitude that deals with being a peacemaker so make sure you're following the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. You can support the podcast by leaving a review, sharing this episode or buying me a coffee. Thanks for listening and don't forget to stay out of the kitchen! Music: "Electrodoodle" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Looking for a new paddle? I use and recommend Vatic Pro paddles. Use code GENXDINKS to get $10 off a new Vatic Pro paddle.

At Hatfield, we don't separate life into “sacred” and “secular” – all of life is meant to be lived for God (Matthew 22:37). Our faith isn't just about church gatherings; it's about how we live every day, in every space. We are whole-life disciples, called to make an impact wherever we go.

Pastor Micah preaches at King's Cross Church.

Join us every Sunday at 10am at River of Life church in Guilderland, NY Find us online at facebook.com/riveralbany or riveralbany.com. Podcasts of the Sunday message can be found on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, YT music, or Soundcloud.

For more information visit mycalvary.com

Send us a textTrinity Grace Church Worship Service - February 16, 2025: Rev. Michael Novak

Doubt is a normal part of faith. We explore John the Baptist's moment of uncertainty and Jesus' response. What does it mean to trust God's timing, even when we don't understand His plan?

At Crossroads Church, we are passionate about following Jesus and making disciples as we see and share the goodness of God. Located in Double Oak, TX (North Dallas), we invite you to join us for our Sunday service at 10 am, either online or in person. The way we view the world shapes who we are becoming, and we want to help you see the goodness of God in every aspect of life – whether it's in our families, work, small groups, or Sunday mornings. In a world filled with distractions and messages that often steer us away from God, our mission is to see God's goodness in everything we do. From Genesis to the Great Commission, the calling of God's people has been to show the world His goodness. By doing so, we can help the world see that God is not done working in our lives, bringing redemption and rescue through His love and grace.

Sunday Morning WorshipThe (True) Family of God - Matthew 12:46-50Dr. Paul ThompsonFebruary 2, 2024Notes | https://calvarydothan.com/wp-content/uploads/2024_02_02_1.pdf

Daily Dependence on God // Matthew 6:9-15Series - Upside Down KingdomSpeaker - Gordon HallNeed Prayer? - Click HereSunday's • 10am • Clovis North High School/Granite Ridge.For the latest on what's happening at church, visit rvcfresno.com or @RVCFresno on Facebook and Instagram

“In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. 2 Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with tow he flew. 3 And one called to another and said: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!' 4 And the posts of the door were shaken by the voice of him who cried out, and the house was filled with smoke. 5 So I said: ‘Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.' 6 Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a live coal which he had taken with the tongs from the altar. 7 And he touched my mouth with it, and said: ‘Behold, this has touched your lips; your iniquity is taken away, and your sin purged.'” Isaiah 6:1-7“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” Matthew 5:8PURE (adj.): not mixed or adulterated with any other substance or material“But as He who call you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, ‘you shall be holy, for I am holy.'” 1 Peter 1:15-16“Our lack of purity is an expression of our belief in the nature and person of God. The answer to being pure is not in action alone but in belief that proceeds these actions. It's not just about not sinning. But for better it is to learn who God really is. To look to Jesus and see him as pure.”- Jackie Hill Perry“1 In the year King Uzziah died, I saw…”“1…I saw the LORD sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of his robe filled the temple.”“2 Above it stood seraphim: each one had six wings: with two he covered his face, with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew.”“3 Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; The whole earth is full of His glory.”“Holiness means ‘separation' and is translated sanctify or purity”- David Hoching“To say the Lord is holy says something. To say the Lord is holy, holy, says more. To say holy, holy, holy is the LORD is to declare this holiness in the highest possible degree.”- David Guzik“Holy is the way God is. To be holy He does not conform to a standard. He is that standard. He is absolutely holy with an infinite, incomprehensible fullness of purity that is incapable of being other than it is. Because he is holy, his attributes are holy. That is whatever we think of belonging to God must be thought of a holy.”- A. W. Tozer“4 The posts of the door were shaken by the voice of him who cried out, and the house was filled with smoke.”“5 So I said: ‘Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.'”“After seeing the holy God, Isaiah then saw himself.”- Jackie Hill PerryThe holiness of God magnified the unholiness of himself“We have a ridiculously low view of sin and an equally mediocre grasp of the holiness of God.”- Jackie Hill Perry“We have all become like one who is unclean, and all out righteous deeds are like a polluted garment.” Isaiah 64:6“6 Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a live coal which he had taken with the tongs from the altar? And he touched my mouth with it, and said ‘Behold, this has touched your lips; your iniquity is taken away, and your sin is purged.'”Holiness mandates purificationagiazo (ah-yea-zo): to make holy; to be set apart for service to God and to abandon practices that displease him“Sanctification is the progressive work of God to make a believer more like Jesus Christ”- Grace Seming“Sanctification is the process of becoming more like Christ in our conduct and in character”- Mike Sulivan“The goal of sanctification is to renew men's and women's hearts in God's image”- John Wesleyhe sets us apart (sanctified) to be set apart (holy)refined as: 1) with impurities or unwanted elements having been removed by processing. 2) developed or improved so as to be precise or subtle“For He (God) is like a refiner's fire or a launder's soup. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver. Then the LORD will have men who will bring offerings in righteousness.” Malachi 3:2-3“Nevertheless, when one turns to the Lord (aka when one repents/looks/beholds), the veil is taken away (salvation)….But we all with unveiled face (saved), beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord (God's image), are being transformed (sanctification/refined) into the same image (God's) from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.”  2 Corinthians 3:16,18“God made us to image Himself. To exist in the world in such a way that when observed, whoever looked at us could accurately imagine God.”- Jackie Hill Perry“Holiness is the everyday business of the Christian. It evidences itself in the decisions we make and the things we do, hour by hour, day by day.”- Charles ColsonAs we behold him, we encounter his holiness. His holiness exposes our unholiness. His holiness then mandates purification. As we respond to this call, and turn to him, he refines us. He sanctifies us and makes us purified. And now pure, we can see him, even more brilliantly. and reflect him even more accurately.“I believe that as you see Him as He is, you'll want to be just like Him too. Holy.”- Jackie Hill Perry

Rhythms (Fasting - Giving Yourself to God) Matthew 6:16-18; Romans 12:1

Gregg DeMey, Lead Pastor

(Jan 12, 2025)

Matthew 27:54 describes how the Roman officer and soldiers, terrified by the earthquake and events at the crucifixion, recognized Jesus as the Son of God. He had the revelation. Have you had that revelation? That awe, that wonder, where you felt God got a hold of you? Did you ever move from amazement to obedience?Here's week two of the sermon series "The Cross" with Pastor Clayton.

"Why I Fast"Matthew 9:14-15Pastor Nate ClarkeJanuary 5, 2025SEEK WEEK is January 5–11. Join us as we dedicate time at the beginning of the year to seek the Lord in prayer and worship. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DETUqVNONXj/NEW KIDS SPACE NOW OPEN!We have expanded with 3x more space for the babies, kids, and youth in your family. https://www.instagram.com/oasischurchva/reel/C8FqHIipr3u/Learn about this year's Kingdom Builder's project: https://www.oasischurch.online/kingdom-buildersHow should Christians think about voting and politics? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak82aD16r04OUR NEW VISION STATEMENT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0WFhtL7h3ISERMON NOTES- Matthew 9:14-15- Why I Fast - Fasting: Temporarily abstaining from the gift of food in order to increase our hunger for the gift of God. - I fast because Jesus assumed that his disciples would. - Matthew 6:16a “When you fast…” - Matthew 6:2a “So when you give…” - Matthew 6:5a “And when you pray…” - Matthew 6:16a “When you fast…”- I fast because I want to get the attention of heaven, not the attention of man. - Matthew 6:16-18- I fast because it can lead to miracles and breakthrough - Mark 9:29- I fast because it forces my mind and dependence on God - Hebrews 5:8- I fast because it exposes sin in my heart for me to deal with- I fast because it prepares me for the ministry God has assigned to me - Matthew 4:1-2 - Acts 13:2-3- I fast because it reveals and grows my longing for God - Matthew 9:14-15 - “Fasting is a physical exclamation point at the end of our plea to God.” John Piper- John 6:35- John 4:31-34Oasis Church exists to Worship God, Equip the believers, and Reach the lost.We are led by Pastor Nate Clarke and are located in Richmond, VA.Stay Connected:Website: https://oasischurch.online Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oasischurchva/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OasisChurchRVA/

In this episode of the Credo Podcast, Sam Parkison joins with Matthew Barrett (Professor of Christian Theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary), Ronni Kurtz (Assistant Professor of Theology at Cedarville… Download Audio

Matthew 2:13-23

Caleb Clardy teaches from Matthew 2:1-23 on January 5, 2025Discover the powerful message of Epiphany as we explore the journey of the Magi, the schemes of Herod, and how God's dreams shape our lives. Dive into Week One of Epiphany 2025 and experience the story in a whole new way.Support the show