POPULARITY
Categories
Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is God First Essential Church January 25, 2026
|| ABOUT THIS MESSAGE || In our final week of GOD FIRST, Pastor David brings a challenging message on giving God our first and best!|| ABOUT BEACH CHURCH || We exist to reach, raise up, and release followers of Jesus who change the world. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone is welcome to learn about a relationship with God, whether you're curious or confident in your faith.|| GET CONNECTED || Here at Beach, we are most passionate about seeing people come into a relationship with Jesus! Head over to our website to get connected https://www.beachchurchjax.com/im-new|| FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA ||@beachchurchjax|| SCRIPTURE REFERENCES || Mark 12:28-34
On today's episode of The Last Days Podcast Pastor's Todd & Katie Holmes talk about fasting, the practice of it, and the spiritual benefits that come with it.When you sacrifice something, especially to The Lord, there is a result and response that comes with that. You are intentionally putting God FIRST and when you seek FIRST the Kingdom of Heaven, EVERYTHING is added to YOU! Make sure you are subscribed and keep up with us on social media.NEW EPISODES every Monday & Friday @ Noon.https://www.facebook.com/TheRiverOfTriCities/https://www.youtube.com/@TheRiverofTriCitiesChurchhttps://www.instagram.com/rivertcchurch/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/thelastdayspodcast/?hl=en
On today's episode of The Last Days Podcast Pastor's Todd & Katie Holmes talk about fasting, the practice of it, and the spiritual benefits that come with it.When you sacrifice something, especially to The Lord, there is a result and response that comes with that. You are intentionally putting God FIRST and when you seek FIRST the Kingdom of Heaven, EVERYTHING is added to YOU! Make sure you are subscribed and keep up with us on social media.NEW EPISODES every Monday & Friday @ Noon.https://www.facebook.com/TheRiverOfTriCities/https://www.youtube.com/@TheRiverofTriCitiesChurchhttps://www.instagram.com/rivertcchurch/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/thelastdayspodcast/?hl=en
|| ABOUT THIS MESSAGE || Pastor Emmanuel continues our GOD FIRST series with a powerful teaching from John 13. As Jesus knelt to wash his disciples' feet—even knowing of Judas's imminent betrayal—he modeled a leadership that serves rather than demands service. Through Pastor Emmanuel's compelling story of Igor, a former Russian military man whose misconceptions about faith were shattered by Jesus's radical example in John 13, we witness the transformative power of understanding God's true nature. We hope this message encourages you to boldly follow Jesus knowing He went first! || ABOUT BEACH CHURCH || We exist to reach, raise up, and release followers of Jesus who change the world. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone is welcome to learn about a relationship with God, whether you're curious or confident in your faith.|| GET CONNECTED || Here at Beach, we are most passionate about seeing people come into a relationship with Jesus! Head over to our website to get connected https://www.beachchurchjax.com/im-new|| FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA ||@beachchurchjax|| SCRIPTURE REFERENCES || John 13: 1-15
|| ABOUT THIS MESSAGE || With 2026 just getting started, we want to refocus everything we do this year by putting God first. Yesterday, Pastor Jerry continued our GOD FIRST series with a challenging reminder: when God is first and owns it all, we gratefully approach every day with humility by living in generosity toward Him. || ABOUT BEACH CHURCH || We exist to reach, raise up, and release followers of Jesus who change the world. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone is welcome to learn about a relationship with God, whether you're curious or confident in your faith.|| GET CONNECTED || Here at Beach, we are most passionate about seeing people come into a relationship with Jesus! Head over to our website to get connected https://www.beachchurchjax.com/im-new|| FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA ||@beachchurchjax|| SCRIPTURE REFERENCES || Luke 12: 13-20
GROWTH IS GOD’S WILL SAMUEL GREW 1 Samuel 2:21 And the Lord was gracious to Hannah; she gave birth to three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel GREW up in the presence of the Lord. (NIV) 1 Samuel 2:26 And the boy Samuel CONTINUED TO GROW in stature and in favor with the Lord and with people. (NIV) KING DAVID GREW 2 Samuel 3:1 The war between the house of Saul and the house of David lasted a long time. David GREW STRONGER AND STRONGER, while the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker. (NIV) SAMSON GREW Judges 13:24 The woman gave birth to a boy and named him Samson. He GREW and the Lord blessed him, (NIV) JOHN THE BAPTIST GREW Luke 1:80 And the child GREW and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until he appeared publicly to Israel. (NIV) JESUS GREW Luke 2:52 And Jesus GREW in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. (NIV) 2 Peter 1:8 The more you GROW like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NLT) Colossians 1:9–10 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, GROWING in the knowledge of God, (NIV) Philippians 1:6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion UNTIL the day of Christ Jesus. (NIV) 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) 1. THE HANGUP OF DESIRE 2. THE HANGUP OF GRACE Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God (NIV) 2 Peter 3:18 But GROW in the GRACE and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (NIV) 3. THE HANGUP OF AN OVER DEPENDENCE ON PEOPLE Philippians 2:12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION with fear and trembling, (ESV) Colossians 2:6–7 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, YOU must CONTINUE to follow him. 7 Let your roots GROW down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will GROW strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. (NLT) SPIRITUAL GROWTH PLAN 3A. Yearly pray and fast 3B. Monthly tithe 3C. Weekly attend and serve at church 3D. Weekly attend a small group 3E. Daily spend time with God (First 15) 4. THE HANGUP OF AN UNDER DEPENDENCE ON PEOPLE 1 Corinthians 8:1 Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. (NIV) 5. THE HANGUP OF SELF-CENTERED LIVING Matthew 23:11 The greatest among you will be your servant. (NIV) 6. THE HANGUP OF DISTRACTED LIVING Luke 8:11 “This is the meaning of the parable: The SEED is the word of God. (NIV) 6A. DISTRACTED BY THE DEVIL Luke 8:12 Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. (NIV) 6B. DISTRACTED BY TRIALS Luke 8:13 Those on the rocky ground are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. (NIV) 6C. DISTRACTED BY WORRIES Luke 8:14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not MATURE. (NIV) 6D. DETERMINED TO GROW Luke 8:15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by PERSEVERING produce a crop. (NIV)
In this message, Minister Mark Ashton teaches from Genesis 4 and explores the powerful difference between giving God our leftovers and giving him our first and our best. Through the story of Cain and Abel, scripture from Proverbs and Malachi, and personal testimony, this message challenges us to examine what truly comes first in our lives—and in our money.This teaching goes beyond budgeting tips and gets to the heart of biblical stewardship. You'll discover why God links generosity to blessing, why tithing was a foundation of worship throughout the Old Testament, and how the New Testament calls believers into lives marked by joyful, generous, and sacrificial giving. Whether you're new to church, struggling financially, or looking to grow in obedience and trust, this message offers clear next steps for moving from stress to peace and from scarcity to spiritual freedom.If you've ever wondered:• “Does God really care about my finances?”• “What does the Bible say about tithing and generosity?”• “How do I honor God when money is tight?”This message will help you rethink your relationship with money and invite God's blessing into every part of your life.
Conversations with Zo with That Smart Guy Part IIIHarlem, Rap, Boxing, Motivational Speaker, Community Work, LeaderHow you been What have you been up tooThere's no such thing as strong women there's just weak men What do you look for in a woman?Is a man asking a woman her body count a sign of insecurity?Does a woman need a hoe phase?Does female rap promote baby momma culture ?(Why does Ayesha Curry disrespect Steph like that?What version of black history should be taught?How do you feel about the drop the flag challenge and do you support?Are most New Yorkers not really gang and just jacking something they mans is jackin?SOCIAL MEDIA! Studio: @BronxtalestudioSmart Guy: @thesmartguy_Zo : @conversationwithzo #Harlem #Rap #boxing #Motivational #Speaker #community #Work #leadership #hiphop #artist
What if you succeeded at every goal this year—and still missed what mattered most? In Luke 18, Jesus shows us a better way forward. A way marked by dependence, persistence, and trust in a faithful Father. In this message, we talk about: • Why posture before God matters • How consistent practices shape real faith • Why God's faithfulness is the foundation for everything If you're stepping into a new year with hope, questions, or weariness—this message is for you.
|| ABOUT THIS MESSAGE || Yesterday, Pastor Jerry introduced a new 4-week series, GOD FIRST, teaching us how to practically prioritize God's place in our lives. When we put God first, it will show up in how we love our neighbors, how we treat our enemies and how we steward our resources. This message challenged us to honestly assess God's place in our real life, not just our church life, and to take practical steps in putting Him first in everything. || ABOUT BEACH CHURCH || We exist to reach, raise up, and release followers of Jesus who change the world. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone is welcome to learn about a relationship with God, whether you're curious or confident in your faith.|| GET CONNECTED || Here at Beach, we are most passionate about seeing people come into a relationship with Jesus! Head over to our website to get connected https://www.beachchurchjax.com/im-new|| FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA ||@beachchurchjax|| SCRIPTURE REFERENCES || Isaiah 43:10-11; Isaiah 40:12-15; Isaiah 40:25-26, 28, Isaiah 55:8-9, Romans 11: 33-36
Pastor Eric begins a new series through the book of Nehemiah by looking at the first decision great leaders make: seeking God before doing anything else. From Nehemiah 1, we see how godly leadership starts by slowing down to gather the facts, bringing our burdens honestly to God in prayer, confessing sin, and believing that […]
Pastor Eric begins a new series through the book of Nehemiah by looking at the first decision great leaders make: seeking God before doing anything else. From Nehemiah 1, we see how godly leadership starts by slowing down to gather the facts, bringing our burdens honestly to God in prayer, confessing sin, and believing that […]
Scripture: Titus 2:11-14Message from Brady Bryce, Senior MinisterFor more resources and access to everything we have going on at First, visit https://www.firstabq.org
Are your relationships running on autopilot? Listen as Pastor Lee shares 36 years of marriage wisdom on why so many Christians struggle in their relationships—and the one thing that changes everything.This episode is perfect for your morning commute or workout as Pastor Lee walks through practical ways to invite God's presence into your marriage, dating life, and family relationships. You'll discover why commitment has become countercultural, how the Holy Spirit guides you away from toxic connections, and the simple shifts that transform struggling relationships into thriving ones.You'll Learn:✅ The missing ingredient in every failing relationship✅ How to recognize God's warning signs about people in your life✅ Why offense and assumption are relationship killers✅ Practical steps to put God first starting todayFeaturing wisdom from Ecclesiastes, Proverbs, and Ephesians, this message will challenge you to stop taking cues from the world and start following God's playbook for relationships.Subscribe now and start every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday with biblical truth that actually works in real life.
Revival Mom | Grow Deeper with God, Encourage children in the Lord, Christian Home
Ready to make 2026 different? Instead of setting another list of resolutions, what if you asked God what He has planned for your year? In this interactive episode, you'll pause and spend time with the Holy Spirit to discover His vision for your life, marriage, and family in 2026. Through guided prayer and journaling prompts, you'll learn to partner with God instead of asking Him to bless your plans. This episode is perfect if you've been feeling stuck in the same prayer patterns, unsure of your purpose, or wanting to grow closer to God but don't know where to start. What You'll Do: Ask the Holy Spirit what He has for you in 2026 Discover how the desires of your heart connect to God's plan Find specific verses to anchor your year Create daily reminders to stay aligned with His will Bring your journal, pen, and Bible—this is an interactive session with the Holy Spirit! Looking to grow your relationship with God and bring more faith into your marriage and home in 2026? Email alyssa@alyssarahn.com for one-on-one coaching.
Scripture: Matt 1:18-25Message from Brady Bryce, Senior MinisterFor more resources and access to everything we have going on at First, visit https://www.firstabq.org
Travel can be life-giving — and still throw your routine completely off.If you're a woman who struggles with self-doubt, overwhelm, or anxiety around “doing enough,” this episode is for you.In today's video, I am sharing how to stay in routine while traveling without guilt, pressure, or perfectionism. You'll learn how to approach consistency in a way that's faith-centered, flexible, and rooted in peace — not performance.This conversation is for faith-first women who want to:✨ Stay connected to God while traveling✨ Maintain routines without burnout✨ Release anxiety around “falling off track”✨ Experience consistency as joy, not obligationYou'll walk away encouraged that consistency is possible — and it doesn't have to be difficult.
Devotional Theme – "Seek God First"Scripture reference – Matthew 6:33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.”Intro and Outro Song - "We Give Thanks To Thee" by Marlene Jenkins CooperClosing Song - “Lead me, Lord" by Samuel S. Wesley & George F. StricklingScripture Mentioned in the Podcast: 2 Chronicles 20:35–37, 2 Chronicles 18
Scripture: James 5:7-10Message from Brady Bryce, Senior MinisterFor more resources and access to everything we have going on at First, visit https://www.firstabq.org
What happens when you give God not what's left… but what's first? Today's devotion uncovers a faith principle that unlocked a miracle for a widow in crisis and can transform your life too. Discover why the first matters. Come and listen.This devotional was aired on Radio HCI Today via the WeLove Radio App.
In this episode of Uncommon Sense, I'm discussing my changing views on Israel, Donald Trump, and Candace Owens and why principles grounded in Scripture must always matter more than personalities.I'll discuss how easy it is to get swept up in political figures, influencers, and movements… all while forgetting that God alone is who we should be following. The devil is just like a stalker prowling around, watching, scheming, seeking someone to devour. And in these chaotic times, he's using deception, manipulation, and emotional brainwashing to pull people into confusion and ultimately into Hell.In this episode, we're talking about how the synagogue of Satan is operating openly today, pushing narratives meant to distract and divide. I am urging my listeners to stay anchored in the Word, remain spiritually alert, and refuse to be seduced by personalities, platforms, or “conservative celebrities” who very well may not be aligned with God's truth.Ultimately, we all need to return to the Bible (now more than ever) and to guard our minds and souls as the days grow darker and darker.--https://www.bible.com/
This week we paused our Advent series to take part in our annual Big Give Generosity Campaign. Throughout Jesus' ministry, He teaches that our finances are inseparably connected to our spirituality. It's never just about numbers, but it's about our heart. If you would like to support Church on the Rock click here: https://www.churchontherock.info/give
Scripture: Romans 15:5-7Message from Brady Bryce, Senior MinisterFor more resources and access to everything we have going on at First, visit https://www.firstabq.org
Pastor Lee Wilson from Purpose Church Houston shares an important message on how we manage our relationships!
This is it. The grand finale of our KINGDOM IMPACT series—and we're finishing strong. In this powerful conclusion, Sow the Seeds, Pastor Travis Hearn delivers a message that digs deep beneath the surface of blessing and favor to expose the gritty, often unseen journey of spiritual growth. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 9:6-8, Luke 6:38, and John 12:24, this message is a vivid, faith-stirring reminder: you can't reap what you haven't sown. We've shouted over fruit, but today we honor the seed. We've talked stewardship, generosity, sacrifice—and now, God is calling us to Sow Big. Because before there are roots... before there are shoots... before there's fruit... there must be seed. And that seed isn't just financial—it's personal. It's your heart, your life, your yes to God. You'll hear how the Corinthian and Macedonian churches inspired each other toward radical generosity, and how the soil of your life doesn't respond to promises—it responds to planting. Pastor Travis challenges us to stop asking, “Where is my harvest?” and start asking, “Where are my seeds?” This message is raw, real, and deeply revealing. It's a spiritual call to move from comfort to commitment, from intention to impact, from withholding to wholehearted worship. Let's make a Kingdom Impact.
Send us a textJudgement is here , you will start to hear of many churches falling. Many in the church as well needs to wake up! God has had enough of the greed and lies in the Churches. The body of Christ as well will reap what they have sown. If you have sown good fruit you will reap a harvest. If you have sown wickedness you shall reap the same 10x over. It's here guys! Jeremiah 25Matt 10;16Matt 20
Welcome to the “Wrap Party” where we dive a little deeper into Sunday's message. Tune in as we discuss the sermon. -Featuring Pastor Bryan
When you make the Kingdom of God your primary pursuit, worry loses its power and God's provision takes over. Watch this message to learn how to shift your focus from worldly wealth to spiritual treasure.Let us pray with you:https://jentezenfranklin.org/prayerSee our outreach programs:https://jentezenfranklin.org/outreachStay connected with Free Chapel:Instagram: https://instagram.com/freechapelFacebook: https://facebook.com/freechapelApp: https://freechapel.org/appStay connected with Jentezen Franklin:YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jentezenfranklinmediaInstagram: https://instagram.com/jentezenTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/jentezenFacebook: https://facebook.com/JentezenFranklinApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jentezen-franklin-at-free-chapel/id506354054Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7o0QPCGh5T79jMptpJPTloDonate to help us share the gospel around the world through Kingdom Connection broadcasts and other humanitarian outreaches: https://jentezenfranklin.org/donations/new?cid=sm-yt
God first in all things and everything else will fall into place.
Dan Jarms // Genesis 32 Sermon notes
This week we started a new series leading up to our Legacy Worship Night. Pastor Michael led us through what it looks like to have God First in our lives by what our Time, Treasures and Talents go to!
David Kibler's message on Sunday, November 23rd, 2025 at Catalyst Christian Church.
In this episode I got my good buddy TJ Givens from ToKnowHimOutdoors on to talk all about the faith and hunting! Podcast brought to you by:Asio : SEBH for 15% off https://asiogear.com/Summit: SEBH15 for 15% off https://www.summitstands.com/Bowtique: SEBHP https://thebowtiquellc.com/Bergy Bowsmith: SEBH10 for 10% off https://bergybowsmith.com/G5 Outdoors https://www.g5outdoors.com/Prime Archery https://www.g5prime.com/Dialed Archery https://dialedarchery.com/Moultrie https://www.moultrie.com/BHL https://bowhuntingleague.com/Bohning Archery SEBHP2025 for 20% off https://www.bohning.com/12:27 ProductionsScrape doctor SEBH10 for 10% https://scrapedoctor.com/Victory Archery https://www.victoryarchery.com/
Presented by Lauren Stibgen As Christians, we often consider ourselves servant leaders, but how was this phrase born into our business vocabulary as something to aspire to whether you are a follower of Jesus or not? And why do we consider servant leadership biblical at all? First, for those of you who missed the conversation about the roots of servant leadership in secular business, it all began in 1970 when Robert Greenleaf mused over an allegory about a servant who ended up being a leader of a great band of men. This story was not biblical, but it sparked the thought that those who serve with an others-first focus can become some of the greatest leaders; more than leaders who are bestowed with a title who desire power, authority, and self-focused gratification. The phrase servant leader is not specifically found in the Bible. How many times is the word leader even used in the Bible? Just a quick look in my Bible's concordance—you know the list of words in the back with references to verses—the word leader is not listed. Only, lead, leads and led. People who lead are listed. Rulers along with kings, but both rulers and kings would better describe appointed positions of authority. In the New Testament, the word diakonia—meaning servant or service—is the most used word to describe people in leadership. Not surprising the words servant, servants, serve, and service take up much more space in the concordance than any of the other “official” terms for the appointed offices. Perhaps this is why we are drawn to the term servant leader as followers of Jesus. It is deeply connected to the Word of God in describing those in the early church. In Romans 16:1 speaks of Phoebe, a servant and patron of the church. 1 Corinthians 3:5 exhorts, What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task. We know each of these servants were in fact leaders of the early church. All early church leaders had one thing in common—submission and obedience to the will of God in their lives. They looked to their relationship with God in Jesus before even considering the work before them. In his book, Forgotten God, Francis Chan sums up our need for seeking and submission well in his introduction when he writes, “…as believers we can never be done with God. He is infinite and we are finite; there will always be more of his character to discover, more of his love to experience and more of his power to use for his purposes.”[1] More of his power—not my power—to lead. His power made perfect through me for his purposes. True servant leadership begins in submission to God through Christ Jesus. We see this throughout Scripture. We see the success of those who submit themselves to the Lord's will and the failure and despair of those who choose to lead by selfish ambition and pride. True servant leadership as a follower of Jesus Christ starts with a posture of submission. Is this on a leadership description for your next job—must be willing to submit. We can all say probably not. But are you willing to submit in order to become a better servant leader? God rarely uses the shiny, well-educated people to make the biggest impact for his kingdom. Remember, the disciples were mostly fishermen and a tax collector! So, if you are submitted, be prepared for God to use you as a servant leader right where you are! I have thought a lot about the Old Testament prophet Elijah. Submission to the will of God was most of his story, and God used him to glorify himself during a deeply sinful time filled with idol worship. Found in 1 Kings, God used Elijah to give word to Ahab of a drought in the land. During this time, the Lord sent Elijah away where ravens and a non-Israelite widow provided for him! We learn he stayed by a river for a while, and when it dried up, Elijah moved on. He was completely reliant on God and obedient to his call. Finally,
God deserves our first and our best, not what's left. Living with firstfruit faith means trusting God first with our time, priorities, and resources. When we give Him our best, He blesses the rest. It's not about what we give—it's about who we trust.
Join a powerful brotherhood of men committed to transforming their lives by building strength, sharpening their mindset, and becoming disciplined leaders for their families, communities, and the world. Link to join => https://www.skool.com/refinedintegrity/about In Today's Episode The Framework to Seek God First is this! Listen Now! Other Resources! > Set Up Your Consultation with our Indexed Universal Life Insurance Team = > https://freedominsurancellc.com/consultation > Track your entire crypto portfolio, build exit strategies and receive real-time sell alerts, all in one simple dashboard. Do all of this with our Crypto Tracking App Merlin! Get 30 Days of Merlin Free => https://www.merlincrypto.com/ > Learn about how to join our 3T Warrior Academy https://sale.3twarrioracademy.com/home?utm_source=linktree&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=CJV Warriors Rise! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, we talk about what it means to bring God's Presence into our relationships with others. Through His life, Jesus shows us how to live at the pace of the Holy Spirit and create space for authentic connection. We explore how easy it is to overlook the significance of ordinary moments and how, through slowing the pace of our lives, we have powerful opportunities to love, listen, and become more attuned to those around us. We also discuss the importance of healthy boundaries, the freedom that comes from not needing to fix others, and how it's God's love that shapes how we show up for the people in our lives. Heather's One Thing - This Wild at Heart Podcast series with Jon Tyson (Part 1) (Part 2) Sister Miriam's One Thing - The Lila Rose Show with Msgr Rossetti Michelle's One Thing - Raise a Hallelujah by Bethel Music, Jonathan Helser, and Melissa Helser Journal Questions: How can I show up for people in my life in this season? How do I need others to show up for me? In what ways do I lose myself when entering into the suffering of others? Do I need to create a boundary in any of my relationships? Discussion Questions: What margin do you need to create for yourself so you can be more present? What is your biggest obstacle to being present to your loved ones? How can you prioritize being present to Christ and what He's doing in you? What would it look like for you to give from a place of security? Quote to Ponder: “More and more, the desire grows in me simply to walk around, greet people, enter their homes, sit on their doorsteps, play ball, throw water, and be known as someone who wants to live with them. It is a privilege to have the time to practice this simple ministry of presence. Still, it is not as simple as it seems. My own desire to be useful, to do something significant, or to be part of some impressive project is so strong that soon my time is taken up by meetings, conferences, study groups, and workshops that prevent me from walking the streets. It is difficult not to have plans, not to organize people around an urgent cause, and not to feel that you are working directly for social progress. But I wonder more and more if the first thing shouldn't be to know people by name, to eat and drink with them, to listen to their stories and tell your own, and to let them know with words, handshakes, and hugs that you do not simply like them, but truly love them.” (Henri Nouwen, Gracias: A Latin American Journal) Scripture for Lectio: “O Lord, thou hast searched me and known me!” (Psalm 139:1) Sponsor - Camp Wojtyla: Are you looking for a transformative experience for your middle school or high school student? Camp Wojtyla helps young people fall more in love with Jesus Christ and His Church through epic adventures in the Colorado mountains, awesome community, and huge fun. Camp Wojtyla helps kids learn they are stronger than they thought, and that God is bigger than they could ever have imagined. Camp Wojtyla is nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado on a beautiful, 1200-acre wilderness property, and offers fourteen different single gender programs, giving campers a unique opportunity to LIVE LIFE TO THE FULL! We have a God of adventure. He has a story and a plan for each of us. Camp Wojtyla teaches about God and the Catholic Church through authentic and life-changing adventures in creation. In a culture that inundates us with noise, unplugged time on the mountain helps us understand who God is and who He has made us to be. While at Camp Wojtyla, campers experience expertly designed and sequenced programming that helps them understand that they are called to sainthood...and how they can achieve it! Our carefully selected, and highly trained team of staff and counselors are joyful and faithful role models who can't wait to help give your camper their best summer ever! Come check us out at www.camp-w.com. We can't wait to offer you or your child a transformative adventure! The lottery for 2026 programming is open now through October 26th. Sign up today for a chance to experience Life to the Full at Camp Wojtyla this summer! SIGN UP FOR NEWSLETTER INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK ONLINE TRADING POST STORE Chapters: (00:00) Camp Wojtyla (01:40) Intro (02:30) Welcome (04:39) Guiding Quote (07:06) Being Present in the Everyday (08:48) The Gift of Another's Presence (10:05) Contemplating Others as A Mystery to Be Revealed (12:18) The Gift of Presence is an Artform (14:51) Balancing Presence for You and Others (16:34) What Does Accompiment Look Like? (18:44) Having Boundaries (21:24) Fearing Being Present (23:37) Receiving from God First (26:07) One Things