Podcasts about god most high

Welcome  to the Hopewell Baptist Church podcast. In this episode, our pastor Barry Wilkinson talks about how  God welcomes us so we are to welcome each other.  God desires us to have meaningful and genuine relationships with each other in HIs family.  The messages centers around several reasons we have to do that.  We hope you are encouraged to live with an open heart toward other people.  Hopewell Baptist Church is located 7 miles outside of Andalusia, Al at 6592 Brooklyn Rd, Andalusia, AL 36421. If you would like to contact the church, feel free to call 334-222-2757.  

From “In the Beginning” to Amen –What Does God Really Want of Me? Micah 6:6-8 (NLT)“What can we bring to the LORD? Should we bring him burnt offerings? Should we bow before God Most High with offerings of yearling calves? Should we offer him thousands of rams and ten thousand rivers of olive oil? Should we sacrifice our firstborn children to pay for our sins? No, O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:1-5 (NLT)“Listen to what the LORD is saying: ‘Stand up and state your case against me. Let the mountains and hills be called to witness your complaints. And now, O mountains, listen to the LORD 's complaint! He has a case against his people. He will bring charges against Israel. O my people, what have I done to you? What have I done to make you tired of me? Answer me! For I brought you out of Egypt and redeemed you from slavery. I sent Moses, Aaron, and Miriam to help you. Don't you remember, my people, how King Balak of Moab tried to have you cursed and how Balaam son of Beor blessed you instead? And remember your journey from Acacia Grove to Gilgal, when I, the LORD, did everything I could to teach you about my faithfulness.'” God Doesn't Want Empty Religion 1 Samuel 15:22 (NASB)Samuel tells Saul: "To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams." Hosea 6:6 (NKJV)“I desire mercy, and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings." Amos 5:21-24 (NIV)“I hate your festivals…I will not accept your offerings…Instead, let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." Isaiah 1:11-17 (NLT)“God says, ‘I am tired of your offerings. When you come to worship me, who asked you to parade through my courts with all your ceremony? Stop bringing me your meaningless gifts; the incense of your offerings disgusts me! As for your celebrations of the new moon and the Sabbath and your special days for fasting— they are all sinful and false. I want no more of your pious meetings. I hate your new moon celebrations and your annual festivals. They are a burden to me. I cannot stand them! Wash yourselves and be clean! Get your sins out of my sight. Give up your evil ways. Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.'" Obedience Has Always Mattered More Than Ceremony God Has Told Us What He Wants (Micah 6:8) Do Justly or Do Justice Love Mercy Matthew 18:33 (NLT)“Shouldn't you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?” Walk Humbly with God Do Justice. Love Mercy. Walk Humbly with God. The Gospel Isn't "Try Harder”, It's "Trust Christ.” God Isn't Interested in or Impressed by Religious Activity That Leaves Our Character Unchanged

Welcome to Calvary! We are a growing church, meeting in many locations around the world, helping people to know Jesus, find community and make a difference. Sermon Notes - Available via the YouVersion Bible app: https://www.bible.com/events/49641623 To learn more about Calvary Church, visit our website: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAMwdvcnH5U  Watch this message on our Calvary Church YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@calvarycc Our Campus Locations: AUSTRALIA, QLD Calvary Cairns 108 Grafton St Cairns City QLD 4870   Calvary Townsville 569 Bayswater Rd Mount Louisa QLD 4814   Calvary Emerald 11 Gladstone St Emerald QLD 4720   Calvary Blackwater 22a Littlefield St Blackwater QLD 4717   Calvary Rockhampton 189 East St Rockhampton QLD 4700   Calvary Yeppoon 2 Burnett Street Yeppoon QLD 4703   Calvary Sunshine Coast 212 Crosby Hill Rd Tanawha QLD 4556   Calvary Caloundra Sunshine Coast Function Centre (Caloundra RSL) 19 West Terrace Caloundra QLD 4551   Calvary Brisbane 97 Castlemaine Street Milton QLD 4064   SOUTH AFRICA Calvary East London 70 Tennyson St Quigney, East London, 5201   PAPUA NEW GUINEA Calvary Port Moresby PNG Institute of Banking & Business Management (IBBM) Vanama Crescent, Lawes Road

What does it mean to truly walk in the power and purpose God has for your life? In this inspiring message from Dwelling House Church, Pastor Jay Genin explores what it looks like to follow Jesus with wholehearted faith, surrender, and obedience to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Through biblical teaching and practical application, Pastor Jay challenges believers to move beyond simply knowing about God and into a daily relationship marked by trust, spiritual maturity, and a willingness to follow wherever God leads. This sermon highlights how God's Word transforms our hearts, strengthens our faith, and equips us to live as disciples who reflect Christ in every area of life. Whether you're new to Christianity, looking for a Spirit-filled church, or desiring to grow deeper in your walk with Jesus, this message offers biblical truth, encouragement, and practical wisdom that will help you pursue God's calling with confidence. Dwelling House Church is a Spirit-filled, Christ-centered Foursquare church in Madison, Wisconsin, passionate about the presence of God, biblical truth, worship, discipleship, and helping people encounter Jesus in a real and transformative way. If you're searching for sermons about following Jesus, Christian discipleship, spiritual growth, hearing God's voice, the Holy Spirit, biblical teaching, or living a life of faith, this message will encourage and strengthen your walk with Christ. This sermon answers: 1. What does it look like to faithfully follow Jesus in everyday life? 2. How does the Holy Spirit help believers grow in faith and spiritual maturity? 3.How can Christians live with greater purpose, obedience, and confidence in God's calling?

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

This teaching includes the first revealing of this divine name by Melchizedek and Abram, followed by Balaam and its multiple declarations in the Psalms. Also covered is satan's desire to be like Elyon and how Christ's humiliations resulted in His receiving the name above every other name.

For 24 June 2026, The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, based on Luke 1:57-66, 80, sent in from Kansas City, Missouri, USA.

In Part 2 of our conversation on spiritual warfare and submitted authority, Elizabeth Powell explores what it truly means to walk in the authority Jesus has given believers.Do Christians have the same authority as Christ? What does the Bible teach about resisting the enemy? Is there a difference between holy boldness and spiritual presumption?Using Scripture from Luke 10, James 4, Ephesians 6, Acts 19, Jude 9, Matthew 8, and more, Elizabeth unpacks a powerful truth: authority in the Kingdom of God is strongest when it is rooted in submission to Jesus.In this episode, you'll discover:✔️ What "submitted authority" really means✔️ Why Jesus modeled perfect dependence on the Father✔️ The difference between authority and arrogance✔️ Lessons from the Centurion, the Sons of Sceva, and Herod✔️ How to recognize spiritual presumption✔️ Practical prayer language for spiritual warfare✔️ Why believers should pray to the fullness of their authority—but not beyond it✔️ How to stand firm without fear, pride, or spiritual swaggerIf you've ever wondered how to engage in spiritual warfare biblically, how to pray with confidence, or how to stay aligned with God's authority, this episode will encourage and equip you.Remember:"I am a covenant son/daughter of God Most High. I am on Kingdom business. And God is entirely responsible for me."

Send us Fan MailIn this episode Erika unpacks the title Holy One of Israel.  Isaiah uses this title for God over and over in his book.  From this prophet and other verses, we find this aspect of God as the God who is set apart from all other gods.  There is no one or anything else like Him. His power is unlike any other god or power out there.  He is El Elyon, God Most High.But in being set apart as the God of Israel we are reminded that He has attached Himself to that land and her people.  That means that land and her people are set apart.  Then those who get grafted in are set apart.  In being set apart, we are called to reflect Him then to the rest of the world.  Our website is The Context and Color of the BibleWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

April 24, 2026 - Equipped 2026 - Day 2 - 10:00 AM Session   In this episode John offers a personal, text-driven tour through the names of God found primarily in Genesis and throughout Scripture, trading a purely academic approach for a pastoral, relational look at who God is. Rather than only cataloguing lexical definitions, John shows how each divine name reveals character, purpose, and a pattern that points forward to Jesus as the fullest revelation of God. Topics covered include the opening name Elohim (God the Creator) in Genesis 1; the tetragrammaton (Yahweh) introduced in Genesis 2 and echoed in Exodus 3:14; titles such as Adonai (Lord), El Elyon (God Most High), El Shaddai (God Almighty), El Roi (the God who sees), and Yahweh Yireh (the Lord who provides). John weaves these names with key biblical passages and images — Paul's road-to-Damascus encounter, Abraham's covenant and the test on Moriah, Hagar's encounter in the wilderness, Melchizedek's blessing in Genesis 14, and New Testament connections in John and Colossians. Key points emphasized are the complementary truths that God is both transcendent (the Creator who speaks the universe into being) and immanent (a hands-on, compassionate God who sees, provides, delivers, and enters human history). Listeners will hear how the names function theologically: as proclamations of sovereignty, as covenant promises, as pastoral comfort for the lonely and afflicted, and as foreshadowings of Christ. Illustrative stories and applications include Paul/Saul's recognition of divine presence, Abraham's faith and obedience, Hagar's encounter with the Angel of the Lord (El Roi), Melchizedek's title “God Most High,” and New Testament scenes where Jesus reveals and embodies the divine “I Am.” John also references a neighbor-turned-Bible-student and a mention of Brother Higginbotham to show how these biblical insights play out in real conversations and ministry. What to expect: a blend of careful exegesis, vivid narrative examples, and pastoral reflection that invites listeners to move beyond knowing God's will to truly knowing God. The episode closes by pointing to Jesus as the ultimate revelation — the Word who was with God and was God — and encourages listeners to study the names of God to deepen love, faith, and devotion. (If you'd like the PowerPoint used in the talk, John offers to share it on request.)   Duration 41:33

I. The God of Creation-Same God II. The Lord God of Creation: 1. ELOHIM (1:1) - The powerful One; The transcendent One (separated from creation - II Corinthians 4:16-18, eternal) 2. YAHWEH (2:4) - The personal, relational, covenant-maker 3. EL ELYON (14:18-20) - God Most High used by Melchizedek; “Your highness” 4. EL ROI (16:13) - “The God who sees me” used by Hagar 5. EL SHADDAI (17:1) - “God Almighty” used when est a covenant w/ Abraham 6. EL OLAM (21:33) - “The Everlasting God” used by Abraham when making a treaty with Abimelech. 7. YAHWEH-YIREH (22:14) - “The God who Provides” used by Abraham when offering IsaacIII. God distinguishes (separates)separation brings structure •Day 1 - Separates light from darkness (Ex. 10; 13) •Day 2 - Separates the water above from the water below •Day 3 - Separates the land from the sea •Day 4 - Separates day from night, “for signs & seasons” •Day 5 - God fills the waters; God fills the skies; then God fills the land on Day 6! •Day 6 - Fills the earth; Finishes by making mankind; Eve is made last; See 3:20 Summary in chapter 1 then Specifics on humankind in chapter 2! •Day 7 - (1) Establishes the Sabbath; (2) Sets in place how humans would live out their work week; Exodus 20:8-11; 3 distinct blessings - 1:22; 1:28; 2:3; God gets more personal. He gets intimate. He provides a boost to the humans He made! This is another level of God's interest in us - His goodness to us IV. Four Different ways Scripture applies to humanity: 1. God blesses us - Psalm 1; Matthew 5:1-12 2. We bless God - Psalm 103 3. Some give false blessing - Psalm 62:4 4. Some refuse to bless - Psalm 109:17, 28

It is my privilege to invite you to today's sermon podcast. This message walks through Hebrews 7 and the figure of Melchizedek to show how Jesus fulfills a superior, eternal priesthood beyond the old Levitical system. You'll hear why the old priesthood could not fully restore us, how Christ's priesthood gives direct access to God, and practical responses—access, allegiance, and generous living—called for by that truth. ---- A Better Priesthood Hebrews 7:1–10 Main Idea: Jesus gives us better access to God, a better basis for acceptance, and a better claim on our lives.  Introduction: “Who do I confess to?”  Why Do We Need a Better Priesthood? The old priesthood couldn't bring us home (Hebrews 7:1–4) The old process: sin → priest → sacrifice → ceremonial restoration.  The Law and sacrifices revealed sin but could not fully restore us to God. Jesus gives us a better priesthood (Hebrews 7:1–3; Genesis 14:18–20) The mysterious Melchizedek A king of righteousness, king of peace, and priest of God Most High. Jesus is our eternal High Priest, greater than the Levitical priesthood. A better priesthood calls for a better response (Hebrews 7:4–10) Access: Draw near to Christ with confidence. Allegiance: Trust Him fully Generosity: Worship Him with your life.  Conclusion: “We are saved for a purpose!” Trust Jesus as your High Priest. Lay down a “lesser priesthood” and renew trust in Christ. Choose a specific way to obey Christ in generosity and surrender. ---- Find other Podcasts, Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. https://www.mvcnaz.org/live Stay in touch with our Church Center App at https://www.mvcnaz.org/churchcenter Contact us through our CONNECT form at https://www.mvcnaz.org/connect   With Pastor Mike Curry.

Daily Dose of Hope May 11, 2026   Name of God: El Elyon – The Most High God Scripture: Genesis 14:18-20, Psalm 7:17, 52:2, 78:35, Daniel 4   Prayer:  Exalted El Elyon, we worship you as One who has the final say. When You speak, demons tremble and the earth quakes. Your voice drowns out and silences every other voice that is raised.  You are the final authority for all things, for all time. What You say is so. You say what You mean and You mean what You say. Your word is fixed. It stands firm in the heavens. We can and we will take you at your Word.  Thank you, El Elyon. Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently in a study on the names of God in the Old Testament.  As we have mentioned, in the ancient world, names held a great deal of significance, indicating aspects of someone's character and purpose.  Certainly, it is the same with God.  God has many different names, all of which demonstrate one aspect of His character.    Today, we are discussing El Elyon, which means most high God.  The Hebrew, Elyon, occurs thirty-one times in the Old Testament. The equivalent Aramaic word, Hilay, occurs ten times, all in the book of Daniel.   El Elyon is how God refers to himself after Abram rescues his nephew Lot from the pagan kings who have taken him from Sodom.  Abram ends up pledging allegiance to El Elyon, most high God, and refusing to take any spoils of war.    By now, we have learned that the word El is Hebrew for God.  Elyon is Most High.  El Elyon indicated that God is not just mighty, but Almighty. He is sovereign over all things and can control all things. This name for God also takes into account God's transcendence. When we say that the God of the Bible is transcendent, we mean that He is high and lifted up far above our human comprehension.  God exists above, independent of, and surpasses the limits of any kind of material creation, time, or human comprehension.  El Elyon is the supernatural Creator, who is separate and above all His creation.  Thus, it goes without saying that no idol, god, or created being should be worshiped or exalted over the Lord because He is superior in every way.   We find this name of God in the Psalms quite a bit.  Here are just a few examples:   ·      Psalm 7:17, I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High (El Elyon). ·      Psalm 21:7, For the king trusts in the LORD; through the unfailing love of the Most High (El Elyon) he will not be shaken. ·      Psalm 46:4, There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High (El Elyon) dwells. ·      Psalm 47:2, How awesome is the Lord Most High (El Elyon), the great King over all the earth! ·      Psalm 57:2, I cry out to God Most High (El Elyon), to God, who fulfills his purpose for me.   Though we live on the other side of the cross, this name still holds significant meaning for us.  Nothing can hold importance above God in our hearts. He must be the God Most High over anything we may put before him. The gods of this age aren't metal statues. It's not that simple. Our gods come in the form of finances, jobs, family, or success. Is El Elyon above everything else in your life?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Genesis 1:1-2:3I. The God of Creation:Day 1 - Genesis 1:2-5Day 2 - Genesis 1:6-8Day 3 - Genesis 1:9-13Day 4 - Genesis 1:14-19Day 5 - Genesis 1:20-23Day 6 - Genesis 1:24-31Day 7 - Genesis 2:1-3II. The Lord God of Creation:ELOHIM (1:1) - powerful; transcendentYAHWEH (2:4) - personal, relational, covenant-makerEL ELYON (14:18-20) - God Most High used by Melchizedek (“Your highness”)EL ROI (16:13) - The God who sees me used by HagarEL SHADDAI (17:1) - God Almighty used when establishing a covenant with AbrahamEL OLAM (21:33) - The Everlasting God used by Abraham when making a treaty with Abimelech. The timeframe is significant.YAHWEH-YIREH (22:14) - The God who Provides, is used by Abraham when he was offering IsaacIII. God distinguishes (separates)Day 1 - He separates light from darkness - Exodus 10:21-29 & Exodus 13:22-22Day 2 - He separates the water above from the water belowDay 3 - He separates the land from the seaDay 4 - He separates day from the nightDay 5 - fills the waters & skiesDay 6 - fills the earth, finishes by making mankindDay 7 - establishing the SabbathIV. Three Separations in Scripture that apply to humanity:Isaiah 59:1-2Matthew 25:32Hebrews 7:26

Do you ever feel like a hamster on a wheel - stuck in a monotonous, repetitive, and unfulfilling pattern of going to work, eating, sleeping, and paying bills? When every day feels the same it can be difficult to live with a sense of significance… but here's some good news: our significance is not determined by our position or plans but by God working out His plans through our current position. Psalm 57:2 says, "I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me." God has a purpose for you, RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE. The job that you hold, the people that you work with, none of that is an accident. Jesus wants to use you to bring His light to everyone that you encounter. Next time you feel stuck on the hamster wheel, pray that God would open your eyes to His eternal purposes for you today at work. 

Jim Licharowicz The Non-Pauline Epistles

He Is Series Day 2-El Elyon (Most High God) Genesis 14:18-20 “And King Melchizedek of Salem brought out bread and wine; he was priest of God Most High. He blessed him and said, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, maker of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand!” And Abram gave him one-tenth of everything.” The next title for God is El Elyon. This means Most High God. If we look at how this is used in today's verse, we see two different ways of showing that our God is the Most High God. First, King Melchizedek of Salem says that God is the maker of heaven and earth. Next, he says that he delivered your enemies into your hands. I am sure we have all had times when we needed El Elyon to deliver our enemies into our hands. I can think of one instance in particular that a friend of mine just went through. She had a family member betray her very deeply. He did some work for her and then said she owed far more than she really owed him. He made up all sorts of lies and, in the end, decided to sue her. She couldn't believe that a family member would be doing this, and it caused so much pain, stress, and worry. However, she knows God, and she trusts God. This is a great time to call upon El Elyon to deliver her enemies into her hand. She did not know what she would do if she had to pay all the money the family member said she owed. Even though she had the truth on her side, there were several times throughout this whole ordeal that it looked like things were not going in her favor. There were lies that were told and believed by the courts. However, she also had records and receipts for things she had paid for, and so she knew she was right and he was in the wrong. But would the courts see it that way? Would God come through for her? Would he save her from this injustice? I hope you all know the answer to that question. Yes, of course, he would save her. Of course, he would not let evil win. The court eventually advised the family member to make a deal that was actually fair, and she did not pay more than she felt she owed. God is so good!! Here is one thing that I think we need to remember when we call up God. He is going to answer our prayers in the best way possible. That is not always the way we want Him to, and it is definitely not always in the timing that we want Him to. Remember, we are talking about the Most High God. He is the most high. That means His plan is better than our plan. I know you don't want to hear that, but it is true. That also means that His time is better than our time. I know you didn't want to hear that either. We can get tired of waiting for the Lord's time. My friend was in this legal battle for years. Not one year, not even two, I think it has been more than two years. I am sure she cried out to the Lord many times over those two years. I am sure you have too. That's ok, keep crying out. God wants us to keep asking. He wants us to keep turning to Him. He also wants us to know He is with us through it all. Even if He is not answering your prayer immediately because of some reason or another, that doesn't mean He is not in it with you. He is the one giving you the strength to keep going to work or the provisions to keep paying the lawyer. He is there with you every step of the way. There was a time in Tony's career when he had a boss who did not treat him well at all. She was always talking down to him and telling him he wasn't very good at his job. Tony has always been great at his job. His previous supervisors had praised his writing skills, as he is an excellent writer. This boss told him he didn't know how to write. It was awful, and he hated going to work. Every Sunday night, he would get very sad because it meant he would need to go to work the next day. He lived for the weekends. I am not sure if Tony prayed for God to be delivered from this. I know I prayed, though. I prayed that whole year for her to be removed from command. I prayed that God would change her heart. I prayed that the military would move her. I prayed they would move Tony to another position. I didn't know what the solution was, but I knew God did, and I prayed he would deliver Tony from this situation. She did eventually move on, and the next commander was so much better. Aside from that one commander, he has always had amazing bosses. I am not sure why Tony had to go through that one year. I am not sure why things didn't get better faster, but I do know that God was with him during that whole year. He gave Tony great friends so that he could enjoy his weekends and get a break. Despite this boss, God provided an amazing experience for us on that assignment. We got to go on trips, hang out with friends, and just enjoy life. I know that our Most High God was providing amazing things for us, even in the middle of that struggle. What about you? When you look at your life, when you look through the years, can you see where the Most High God was delivering your enemies into your hands? When did you need a problem solved, and God solved it for you? Are you in this situation right now? Do you feel attacked on all sides, and you need to be delivered? Call out to El Elyon, He is the Most High God. Nothing is stronger than Him. Nothing is more powerful than Him. He is above all the rest. Call out to Him, and He will deliver your enemies into your hands! Dear Most High God, please bless each person listening today. El Elyon, thank you for delivering our enemies into our hands. Thank you for knowing what to do and when to do it. Lord, help us to be patient while we wait for you to deliver us. Help us to trust that you are the Most High and you will save us. Please help us to keep coming to you and to keep calling out to you. We love you Lord and we ask all this in accordance with your will and in Jesus's holy name, Amen! Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. I look forward to meeting you here again tomorrow. Remember, Jesus loves you just as you are, and so do I! God is on your side and we are both rooting for you! Have a blessed day! Today's Word from the Lord was received in September 2025 by a member of my Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group. If you have any questions about the prayer group, these words, or how to join us for a meeting, please email CatholicCharismaticPrayerGroup@gmail.com. Today's Word from the Lord is, “I am the Lord. I am all that you need. I have made you worthy. Do not be afraid to come. Let the Holy Spirit work in and through you. Be the blessing I want you to be.” www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

In this Bible Story, Balaam is unable to curse Israel but instead blesses them three times. He prophesied from God and spoke blessings and truth over them. Finally, telling of an All-Powerful One that would come from Israel. This story is inspired by Numbers 22:36-25:18 & 31:7-16. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Numbers 23:19 from the King James Version.Episode 49: Balaam finally arrives on the cliff where Balak is, and as he looks over at the mass of people below, he begins to understand Balak’s fear. Nevertheless, he has Balak and his men build seven altars and offer sacrifices to the God Most High. Balaam does this three times, but each time God causes Balaam to bless the people of Israel instead of curse them. Balak’s anger and consternation became great, but he could do nothing to thwart the plans of God.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can Jesus be our great high priest if he is from the tribe of Judah rather than the tribe of Levi? The writer of Hebrews quotes Psalm 110 and explains that Jesus is a better high priest, because unlike mere mortal men, he is unstained by sin and unconstrained by death. Additionally, while the earthly high priest had to enter the most holy place in the tabernacle year after year, Jesus has entered the heavens and is seated at the right hand of God Most High, his sacrifice finished once and for all. As a side note, if you'd like a refresher on the original account of Melchizedek, you can go back and listen to Genesis 14, found in episode 4 of Commuter Bible. Hebrews 6 – 1:10 .  Hebrews 7 – 4:23 .  Hebrews 8 – 9:33 .  Hebrews 9 – 12:14 .  Psalm 26 – 18:17 .  Psalm 27 – 19:42 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body and refocus your mind to experience the reality of God's presence. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  Acts 17:25 NIV “...He himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.” Job 34:14-15 NIV “If it were his intention and he withdrew his spirit and breath, all humanity would perish together and mankind would return to the dust.” Psalm 7:10 NIV “My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body and refocus your mind to experience the reality of God's presence. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  Acts 17:25 NIV “...He himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.” Job 34:14-15 NIV “If it were his intention and he withdrew his spirit and breath, all humanity would perish together and mankind would return to the dust.” Psalm 7:10 NIV “My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.

Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyTitle: "What are the key ingredients to the life God calls us to live?"Scripture: Genesis 14:1-24 NIVHebrews 7Bottom line: When we rest in what God said, we walk in his key ingredients of righteousness, peace & blessing that we might be a blessing to the nations as he created us to be.God reveals himself as our rescuing King and eternal Priest and calls us to wholehearted allegiance.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONFree the Hostages"ON JUNE 27, 1976, armed operatives for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) surprised the twelve crew members of an Air France jetliner and its ninety-one passengers, hijacking it to a destination unknown.The plane was tracked heading for Central Africa, where indeed it did land under the congenial auspices of then Ugandan President Idi Amin. And there it remained apparently secure at Entebbe Airport, where the hijackers spent the next seven days preparing for their next move. The hijackers were by all estimations in the driver's seat.However, 2,500 miles away in Tel Aviv three Israeli C-130 Hercules transports were secretly boarded by a deadly force of Israeli commandos who within hours attacked Entebbe under cover of darkness. In less than sixty minutes the commandos rushed the old terminal, gunned down the hijackers, and rescued 110 of the 113 hostages. A few days later, July 4, Israel's Premier Yitzhak Rabin triumphantly declared the mission "will become a legend"—which it surely has.' Israel's resolve and stealth in liberating her people is admired by her friends and begrudged by her enemies.Actually, Israel's resolve is nothing new because the same quality can be traced all the way back to the very beginning of the Hebrew nation in the prowess of their father Abraham. The kidnappers in his day (the Middle Bronze Age) were an international coalition of four eastern kings headed by King Chedorlaomer who attacked the Transjordan, defeating the city states of Sodom and her neighbors, carrying off a large number of hostages That included Abram's nephew Lot." -Hughes, p. 213CONTEXTWe've gone from Promises of blessings to failure to rest in those promises to returning to the original promise keeper through repentance and faith.Abram went down to Egypt but returned to between "House of Bread" and "Ruin". It is here he and Lot part ways. He watches Lot choose what he thinks is best for him and yet outside of God's promised land. No doubt he knows this. He just doesn't believe it or realize it.Genesis 13 contrasts Abram's faith-shaped restraint with Lot's sight-driven ambition—and places both under the canopy of God's covenant faithfulness.In Genesis 14 we see the first recorded battle in scripture. We meet Melchizedek, and we see Abram draw encouragement from Melchizedek and rest in what God has said.There's a powerful lesson for us here.SERMONReview from Genesis 12:1-3:God Is the Initiator of RedemptionGod Calls His People to Trust Him Before They Understand HimGod's Blessing Is Never Merely Personal—It Is MissionalGod Promises to Anchor His People in Uncertain Times & PlacesGod's People Respond with Obedience, Worship, and WitnessBottom line: When we rest in what God said, we walk in his key ingredients of righteousness, peace & blessing that we might be a blessing to the nations as he created us to be.Outline (help from Outline Bible):I. THE COURAGE OF ABRAM (14:1-16)A. The villains (14:1-11)The rebellion (14:1-4): Five Canaanite city-states rebel against Kedorlaomer of Elam.The retaliation (14:5-11): Kedorlaomer and his allies defeat the armies of the five city-states, plunder their cities, and carry many people away as slaves. B. The victim (14:12): Lot, now living in Sodom, is taken away as a slave.C. The victory (14:13-16)Abram's army (14:13-14): Upon learning of Lot's capture, Abram and his 318 trained servants ride out to rescue Lot.Abram's attack (14:15): Abram divides his men and initiates a surprise attack at night.Abram's achievements (14:16): Kedorlaomer is defeated, and Lot is rescued. II. THE COMMUNION OF ABRAM (14:17-24)A. The godly and priestly king of Salem (14:17-20): As he is returning from battle to his home in Hebron, Abram meets Melchize-dek, who blesses him. Abram offers him a tenth of all the goods he has recovered from Kedorlaomer.B. The godless and perverted king of Sodom (14:21-24): In stark contrast, Abram refuses to have any fellowship with Bera, king of wicked Sodom.My notes on Gen 14:This sermon is sort of a part 2 to last week. Abram rescues Lot and co.--people, possessions and all. And he's met by two kings upon his return: Melchizedek and the King of Sodom. (Name?) Sodom's king can only see that his losses are back and he can get back at least some of them, thanks to Abram, who rightly deserves the spoils of war. He is consumed by what he can see. So he asks for some of it back, though he deserves none of it. Melchizedek, however, is a mystery. He is there for Abram at a moment when he's tempted to also get seduced by what he can see. But he finds in Mel a kindred spirit of sorts. Actually, he finds a type of Christ. This type of Christ behaves very much like Christ. He blesses Abram in the name of El Elyon and praises El Elyon for what he did. He honors the greater even as he blesses the lessor. He also blesses Abram and his men with bread and wine. Could this be a whisper to a future Last Supper?Lot, fresh off his rescue, could easily be taking all of this in. He's no doubt glad to be alive. He is thinking of all his losses. He believes that Abram will restore his fortunes. He's focused on what he lost...what he could see and some of it he can still see. We know this because he follows the king of Sodom back to the city. He doesn't rest in what God has said. He's now further from that than he's ever been. Abram, inspired by another person who knows El Elyon, rests in the promises of God and eludes the temptation to dwell on what he can see. He tithes 10% of it to Mel, tells Sodom to give his allies their portion for helping, and surrenders the rest back to Sodom, with the possible invitation for any of the rescued people to join him in his growing clan. It appears none take him up on it.We're back to the contrast between Abram and Lot; a promise of God and a pile of possessions. Abram chooses well, helped by a mysterious king of righteousness, king of peace and priest of a different priesthood. This mysterious priest shows up right when Abram needs him. He leads with generous gifts followed by blessings to Abram and adoration to El Elyon. This is where we are as well. But we don't have a type of Christ showing up to help us right when we need him. We have Christ himself. And he showed up on a Roman cross and shows up for us every day at the right hand of the Father interceding for us in our need. So the next time you're tempted, like I have been for over a week, to feel sorry for yourself, remember that it only would have been worse if he'd not been praying for you.Chat GPT notes:Abram rescues Lot. (Temp salvation)Abram meets a Priest-King. (Melchizedek appears)Abram worships through giving. (Recognizes divine favor and responds)Abram refuses King of Sodom. (Allegiance clarified)Jesus is the better Melchizedek:Ultimate rescueEternal priesthoodCalls for total allegianceClosing illustrationHow many of you heard/saw last week's message? I've never gotten so much positive feedback on a message in my life. It's just like God to take someone battling the temptation to have his own pity party to do something like that. God is faithful.What's sad is that there were people online and on-site who heard the message last week and yet didn't get a thing out of it. Nothing. Nada. Zilch. How can that be? Life-changine for one--Apathetic sigh for the other. Who's that on?Abram and Lot were a part of the same war and rescue. But one of them turned away from what God said and went back to the wicked city that was defeated just days before. Like a dog returning to his vomit.The other turned towards the God of promise: El Elyon. The God Most High. No, not high on a joint--high on his holy hill; holy throne; in his holy temple.What about you?CONCLUSIONBottom line: When we rest in what God said, we walk in his key ingredients of righteousness, peace & blessing that we might be a blessing to the nations as he created us to be."Abram rescued Lot from four kings.Jesus rescues us from sin and death.Abram met a priest who blessed him.We have a Priest who intercedes forever.Abram gave a tenth.We give our whole lives.Abram refused Sodom's reward.We refuse a kingdom that is passing away.Because our King is also our Priest." -ChatGPTINVITATIONPeter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESThis is an important theological distinction—especially as you preach through Genesis and encounter figures like Melchizedek in Genesis 14.Let me define the categories carefully and then contrast them.1️⃣ What Is aType of Christ?A type (Greek: typos) is a historical person, event, or institution intentionally designed by God to foreshadow Christ.It is:Real historySymbolically patternedForward-pointingIncomplete without ChristThe type is not Jesus Himself.It is a divinely embedded preview.Key Characteristics of a TypeHistorical realityEscalation or fulfillment in ChristOften clarified by later ScriptureAnalogical, not identicalBiblical ExamplesAdamPaul explicitly calls Adam a “type” of Christ (Romans 5:14).Adam = representative head → Christ = greater representative head.MelchizedekHebrews 7 presents Melchizedek as a type:King of righteousnessKing of peacePriest of God Most HighWithout recorded genealogyBut Hebrews never says Melchizedek was Christ — he was “made like” the Son of God (Heb 7:3).JosephRejected brother → exalted savior → forgives those who wronged him.A clear Christ-pattern.Definition:A type of Christ is a God-ordained historical shadow that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.2️⃣ What Is aPre-Incarnate Christ (Christophany)?A Christophany is an actual appearance of the Son of God before the incarnation.It is:A real manifestationPersonal and divineNot symbolicThe second Person of the Trinity appearing visiblyThis is not foreshadowing — this is presence.Classic Christophany TextsAngel of the LORDIn several passages:Speaks as GodReceives worshipForgives sinIdentifies Himself as YahwehExamples:Genesis 16 (Hagar)Genesis 22 (Abraham and Isaac)Exodus 3 (burning bush)Judges 13 (Manoah)Many evangelical theologians conclude this is the pre-incarnate Son.The “Commander of the Lord's Army” (Joshua 5)Accepts worship. Identifies ground as holy.Definition:A Christophany is a real, pre-incarnate appearance of the eternal Son of God.3️⃣ The Core DifferencesType of ChristChristophanySymbolic foreshadowingActual divine appearanceHuman or eventDivine manifestationPoints forward to ChristIs ChristIncompleteFully divine presenceAnalogical resemblanceOntological identity4️⃣ The Melchizedek Question (Critical for Your Genesis 14 Preaching)Some argue Melchizedek was a Christophany.But Hebrews 7 does not say he was the Son of God — it says:“He is made like the Son of God.”That language supports typology, not incarnation.Hebrews is arguing:Jesus is not in the order of Aaron.He is in the order of Melchizedek.Melchizedek prefigures Christ's eternal priesthood.If Melchizedek were literally Christ, the argument collapses.You can't be “in the order of” yourself.So for Genesis 14:Melchizedek is best understood as a type.The Angel of the LORD passages are stronger candidates for Christophany.OUTLINESSECTION OUTLINE SEVEN (HEBREWS 7) The author identifies and equates the priesthood of Jesus with that of Melchizedek. I. A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE (7:1-3) A. The person of Melchizedek (7:1 a, 2b-3)Who he was (7:2b): His name means "king of justice," and he was also the "king of peace."What he did (7:1a): He was both priest and king over the city of Salem.Where he came from (7:3): There is no record of either his birth or his death. B. The preeminence of Melchizedek (7:1b-2a)B. The preeminence of Melchizedek (7:1 b-2a)The battle (7:2a): Following the defeat of his enemies, Abraham met Melchizedek and paid tithes to him.The blessing (7:1 b): Melchizedek blessed Abraham.II. A THEOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE (7:4-28): The author lists the various characteristics of Jesus, who, according to the Father's decree, is to be a priest after the order of Melchizedek (see Ps. 110:4). Thus, his priesthood would be: A. Royal (as was that of Melchizedek) (see 7:1) B. Superior (7:4-10)To whom? (7:5-7): To Levi, founder of the levitical priesthood.Why? (7:4, 8-10)a. Abraham was the ancestor of Levi (7:9). b. The yet unborn Levi thus tithed to Melchizedek while still in the loins of Abraham (7:4, 8, 10). C. Independent (7:11-15)Independent of the law (7:11-12).Independent of the tribe of Levi (7: 13-15): Christ came from the tribe of Judah. D. Everlasting (7:16-17) E. Guaranteed (7:20-22): The Father himself took an oath concerning this. F. Continuous (7:23) G. Permanent (7:24) H. Holy (7:26) I. All-sufficient (7:18-19, 25, 27) J. Flawless (7:28)QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?YOUTUBE DESCRIPTION Here's the revised YouTube description, with the preacher and links cleanly integrated and placed where viewers expect them:Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyMessage Title: What Are the Key Ingredients to the Life God Calls Us to Live?Scripture: Genesis 14:1–24 (NIV); Hebrews 7Preacher: Darien GabrielWhat does it look like to live the life God calls us to live—especially when we're surrounded by temptation, fear, and competing allegiances?In Genesis 14, Abram steps into the first recorded battle in Scripture to rescue his nephew Lot. But the real battle isn't fought with swords—it's fought in the heart. Upon returning victorious, Abram is met by two kings and faced with two radically different offers. One tempts him with visible reward and fleeting gain. The other blesses him in the name of El Elyon—God Most High.This mysterious priest-king, Melchizedek, brings bread and wine, speaks blessing, and points Abram back to the promises of God. Hebrews 7 later reveals that Melchizedek is not just a historical figure—but a powerful signpost pointing forward to Jesus Christ, our eternal King and Priest.In this message, we explore:Why resting in what God has said is essential to faithful livingHow righteousness, peace, and blessing flow from wholehearted allegiance to GodThe contrast between living by sight (Lot) and living by faith (Abram)Why Jesus is the better Melchizedek—our ultimate rescuer and eternal intercessorBottom Line:When we rest in what God has said, we walk in His key ingredients—righteousness, peace, and blessing—so that we might be a blessing to the nations, just as He created us to be.If you're feeling torn between what you can see and what God has promised, this message invites you to lift your eyes—and your allegiance—to the King who is also our Priest.

Join us for this week's sermon!Whether you're seeking hope, direction, or a deeper connection with God, this message is for you. Each week, we open God's Word together to find truth, encouragement, and strength for the journey.

Feeling vulnerable, exposed, or weighed down by the words of others is a universal experience. This Christian devotional explores how God provides a shield of protection around us, guarding our hearts and lifting our heads when we feel isolated or criticized. Rooted in Psalm 3:3, this devotion reminds believers that God is our ultimate protector, ever-present and actively surrounding us with favor and strength. Highlights God is our shield, lifting our heads high when we feel down His protective favor surrounds us in ways we often cannot see The Psalms describe God as a shield repeatedly, showing His faithful care We don’t need to shrink, retaliate, or be consumed by shame Leaning on God enables us to prevail, persevere, and press forward Confidence and strength come from God, not our circumstances Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Your Shield of Protection By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading: But You, Lord, are a shield around me,My glory, and the One who lifts my head. (Psalm 3:3 NASB) Have you ever received a comment, observation, or insinuation that left you feeling vulnerable or exposed? Don’t you wish at times you had a protective shield you could hide behind, or at least have in front of you to catch those piercing arrows or darts, even the unintentional ones, that leave you feeling sad or defeated? My daughter is an only child who has always been quite independent and never needy of a man in her life, and never feels alone until someone (who means well, of course) asks her if she’s “in a relationship yet.” And after they express their confidence that she’ll one day “find a husband and be happy,” she can tend to feel singled out as inadequate or incomplete, even though she’s very content with where God has her, and is not striving for a relationship. A friend of mine who is recently divorced and knows a closeness with God she hadn’t experienced while married, will suddenly feel awkward and unprotected when someone mentions her “struggle” and expresses their sympathy—or judgment—for her predicament. And a young mom I know feels isolated and alone when she faces a decision concerning her toddler that other moms might criticize or at least not agree with. When there doesn’t seem to be any right or wrong answer or anyone to walk her through the right answer for her situation, she feels inadequate and lacks confidence in either choice. Oh, how you and I need a protective shield. Something to guard our hearts from even unintentional comments that feel like arrows piercing our hearts. And oh, how our God has already provided. David sang in Psalm 3:3 (NIV): “You, LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.” Our God is a shield of protection around us and the One who lifts our heads high when we would otherwise hang them low—feeling outnumbered, outclassed, outvoted, or just left out. Because He is a shield of protection around us, He enables us to hold our heads high in God-confidence. David also sang in Psalm 5:12: “You bless the righteous person, Lord, You surround him with favor as with a shield.” That means God’s protective shield around us is also a shield of favor. Do you realize, as His child, you remain in a circle of God’s favor that protects you in ways you can’t imagine? In Psalm 139:5, David must’ve been describing God’s shielding circle around him when he sang, “You have encircled me behind and in front, and placed Your hand upon me.” God, as a protective enclosing shield, goes before us, moves alongside us, and guards our backs. David continued his description of God as a shield in Psalm 7:10 when he sang: “My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart.” God, Himself, is our shield. And in Psalm 18, David described God as a shield of refuge when he said the God who is his rock, fortress, and deliverer, is also his “shield and the horn of [his] salvation, [his] stronghold” (verses 1-2). After describing God’s mighty rescue of him, David proclaims in verse 30: “As for God, His way is blameless; the word of the Lord is refined; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.” And in verse 35, David declares his personal praise to God as his shield of support when he sings, “You protect me with your saving shield. You support me with your right hand. You have stooped to make me great.” (NCV) Intersecting Faith & Life: When someone says something to make us feel awkward, isolated, or alone, you and I don’t have to stoop down to their level for a cutting comeback or wilt inside with a sense of awkwardness, embarrassment, or shame. God has already stooped for us and toward us to be our shield and protector. In the New English Translation, the end of verse 35 reads: “You give me your protective shield; your right hand supports me. Your willingness to help enables me to prevail.” The God of this Universe is willing to help you. And just by knowing that, you and I are enabled to prevail, press forward, and persevere on the path He has placed us on. Go to the book of Psalms in your Bible and highlight every time God is described as a “shield.” I found more than a dozen descriptions of Him as a shield, and it encouraged my heart and made me feel strong and protected. Remember your shield of protection wherever you go, whatever you do, whatever you may hear. Further Reading: Psalm 84:11 Psalm 91:4 For more on connecting more closely with God, your shield, see my books, The New Loneliness and The New Loneliness Devotional. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

As we continue to understand more about the message of God; we see that Abraham was called by God to establish a new nation that was to be unlike the world. Today, we see that this New Nation is also to have a relationship with God, that is unlike the world. Join us as we look at this important, but challenging topic! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    Genesis 14 is a key chapter because of what it tells us about Melchizedek. However, Melchizedek does not arrive on the scene until verse 17. What events led up to his introduction? 2.    Who were the two kings mentioned in verses 17 and 18? Given the city the king of Sodom presided over, what might we infer about this man? 3.    How does this study explain Abram's refusal to receive any of the spoils of victory in Genesis 14:23? What does this indicate about the foundation of this new nation of people who follow God? What does this show us about Abram's faith?  4.    According to the study, what does Genesis 14:18 mean when it says that Melchizedek was a priest of God Most High? What "time period" is the Melchizedekian Priesthood for? How are we in this time period today? 5.    Melchizedek was a king from Salem, which is later renamed as "Jerusalem." The name "Salem" means "peace." What does this indicate about this "King of Peace"? What does this suggest about the nature of the Lord's heavenly city? 6.    The study cites Psalm 110:4 twice. Psalm 110:4 says, "The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind, 'You are a priest forever According to the order of Melchizedek.'" What insights did the study explain about this verse? Who is this verse addressing? How "long" will this priesthood last? 7.    According to the study, what object lesson did the priesthood teach? As New Covenant believers, who is our priest? How does He reconcile us to God?  8.    What did you think about the principle in the study that said sinful people can have fellowship with Satan, but not with a holy God? How might Satan seek to give people a semblance of spirituality as a way of keeping them from approaching God through Jesus, our only true High Priest?  9.    According to the study, how does Jesus serve now, as our High Priest? In your personal times of prayer and worship, do you approach the Lord through the atonement of Jesus? Why or why not?  10.    One of the most important takeaways from this passage is that Jesus is in the priesthood of Melchizedek. We see this also in Psalm 110:4 and later in Hebrews 7:17. Why is this vital to understanding the priesthood of the New Covenant, versus the priesthood of the Old Covenant?  11.    Having taken this time to think about the priesthood, the Lord has only appointed two priesthoods, that of Aaron and Melchizedek. What does this indicate about the other priesthoods that man has created in this world? Why are they not necessary?  12.    Before this study, did you understand your need for a priest to reconcile you to God? How will this study change your understanding of how you approach Him? Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

  Host: Dan Panetti   I believe that too many men fail to make significant and meaningful plans for the future because they either falsely believe that they are “fine” and don't really need to change…or they've tried the world's concept of temporary changes and are tired and disappointed with the lack of true purpose. Well, that is a great set up for my word for 2026 - Purpose, that I took from Psalm 57:2 where God's Word says, “I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me.”   Did you know that God Most High HAS a purpose for YOU? He does. And He wants you to know Him, know His plan, and live in such a way that you advance His purpose for your life. If you are looking at your goals for 2026 with that mindset, asking God what He wants to do in and through you, your goals will reflect a much different concept than just self-promotion.   Guys, my prayer for you is that you do the hard work of preparing yourself to truly know God…and make Him known through your life - all that you say and do would be a reflection of His goodness and glory for the world to see. Jesus told his disciples in Matthew 5 that they “are the light of the world.” I think you can agree with me that this dark world needs more lights…lights that shine brightly and point the way to the hope that is Christ Jesus! As you look at all the Christmas lights on your Christmas tree - that's exactly what they are doing…pointing you upward toward heaven to see the true Light of the World!   Praying for you to have a Merry Christmas - and to prepare yourself for an incredible New Year - ask what God wants to do with your life…and then walk in a manner worthy of your calling in the coming days ahead! T4M guys - just a reminder that Training4Manhood is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) ministry and you can make donations either via Zelle (info@training4manhood.com) or by visiting the Training4Manhood website.

Lies travel fast, but they don't last. We end Hebrews chapter 6 and open chapter 7 finding a sturdier place to stand: God's promise to Abraham, sealed by an oath, and a hope described as an anchor for the soul. From that foundation, we follow the thread behind the veil into the true tabernacle, where Jesus acts not as our forerunner and high priest who secures our access to the presence of God.We unpack how an ancient sanctuary layout—outer court, holy place, Holy of Holies—mirrors a heavenly reality, and why that matters for everyday assurance. If Jesus Christ [Messiah] carries His own blood into the real Holy of Holies, then atonement is not a metaphor; it is the substance the Old Testament symbols pointed to. Along the way, we meet Melchizedek, the mysterious king of Salem, whose sudden appearance with bread and wine, blessing, and tithe becomes a powerful type of Christ: king of righteousness, king of peace, and priest of God Most High. The absence of his genealogy in Genesis isn't a puzzle to solve as much as a signpost toward an eternal priesthood fulfilled in Jesus.This conversation stays grounded with a vivid nautical image of a “forerunner” boat that carries the big ship's anchor over the sandbar into safe holding. That's how our hope holds when life's tides pull us backward: not because we are strong, but because our anchor is set in God's unchangeable character. If you've felt the drag of doubt or the sting of broken promises, this is a warm, thoughtful guide to a trust that doesn't crack under pressure.If this helped steady your faith, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs firm footing, and leave a quick review to help others find it.Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a five-star rating to help your podcast provider's algorithm spread RTTB among their listeners. You can find free study and leader resources at the following link - Resource Page - Reasoning Through the Bible Please prayerfully consider supporting RTTB to help us to continue providing content and free resources. You can do that at this link - Support RTTB - Reasoning Through the Bible May God Bless you!! - Glenn and Steve

  Psalm 57:2 I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills His purpose for me.   God is at work…what is HIS purpose for YOUR life? Don't get caught in the comparison game of temporary things, seek the greater good of a bigger God who has designed you for His good works…and walk in them…meaning that you need to move at God's speed, not the hurried pace of this world to enjoy God's purposes being revealed and perfected in your life. Men, don't miss this - your eternal rewards are tied to your eternal investments into God's purposes for your life.   Resource Suggestions The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness by Tim Keller The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment by Jeremiah Burroughs Life Without Lack by Dallas Willard   T4M guys - just a reminder that Training4Manhood is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) ministry and you can make donations either via Zelle (info@training4manhood.com) or by visiting the Training4Manhood website.  

It's easy to become so familiar with Christmas that we lose sight of its wonder and holiness. This message invites us to slow down and behold Jesus the Son with fresh eyes—the God Most High who became most low to invite us into His family. Christmas isn't the story of us finding God, but of God coming to us.

In this Bible Story, John has been exiled after being dipped in a vat of boiling oil. As he sits on the shores of Patmos, God comes to him in a vision. John writes in poetry and metaphor to describe his vision of God’s throne room. We are taken up with John, beholding God’s majesty and glory. This story is inspired by Revelation. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Revelation 4:2 from the King James Version.Episode 242: The Apostle John, now exiled on the island of Patmos, became startled as he heard a powerful voice behind him. The voice told him to write down what he was about to see. He turned around to see who was speaking to him and saw that it was the risen Jesus. His appearance was full of majesty as He gave John a message for each of the seven churches. But the vision did not end there, John was then called up into the throne room of God where he saw it filled with the beauty and majesty only God can bring. Beautiful colors, many thrones, and massive living creatures which all shouted the praises of God Most High, and the Lamb that was slain now lives!Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"You alone, Whose name is Jehovah, are the Most High over all the earth." (Psalm 83:18)

Pastor Ray Bentley reacquaint us with our identity as kings and priests and loved by our God Most High. You have not even begun to touch the edge of the surface of how much God loves you. You are the focus and the object of the creator of the universe. Love. He has committed himself in a covenant to bless you no matter what it takes.

In a season of Stillness, but I'm still here. ❤️‍

In a season of Stillness, but I'm still here. ❤️‍