POPULARITY
Categories
https://kerkdienstgemist.nl/stations/189/events/recording/177779340000189 ★ Support this podcast ★
Today's Bible Verse: "But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content." — Psalm 131:2 Psalm 131:2 paints a beautiful picture of spiritual contentment and trust. David compares his soul to a weaned child resting peacefully with its mother—not anxious for what it can receive, but secure simply because of who it is with. This image reflects a mature faith that has learned to rest in God's presence rather than constantly striving for control. Become a BibleStudyTools.com PLUS Member today: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/ Looking for a peaceful way to end your day? Listen to "Your Nightly Scripture" to end your day with God's word Meet Today’s Host: Reverend Jessica Van Roekel
When life feels out of control and God feels distant, where do you even begin?Psalms 9-16 are one big, honest conversation about what it's like to live in a broken world and still choose to trust God. David, who wrote all of these Psalms, was a man who fought 50+ battles, faced enemies on every side, and somehow kept his faith intact. These Psalms aren't polished theology. They're raw, real, and remarkably relatable.In this episode, we cover everything from crying out in anger when evil seems to win, to finding shelter in God like a bird tucked under a wing. And we end somewhere surprising...with a hidden resurrection prophecy tucked inside a psalm written a thousand years before Jesus walked the earth.What you'll learn:[09:50] When God feels absent: Psalm 10 gives you permission to ask "Where are you, God?" as an act of faith, not doubt.[12:30] When fear has the upper hand: Psalm 11 reveals why your foundation matters more than your circumstances and what it means that God's eyes are always watching.[15:05] When you're dealing with deception and lies: Psalm 12 shows how to take heart and trust God for protection when people in your life can't be trusted.[16:50] When you need a safe place: Psalms 13 explores the honest cry of someone who feels forgotten, and why "How long, O Lord?" can become one of the most faithful prayers you can pray.[23:03] How to find favor with God: Psalm 15 gives a surprisingly practical list of what it looks like to live in a way that draws you closer to God without making it feel like a checklist.[27:52] A prophecy you didn't see coming: Psalm 16 contains a hidden vision of resurrection that Peter quoted at Pentecost pointing from David all the way to Jesus.Psalms Show Notes:Psalms RoadmapPsalms Playlist on Apple MusicPsalms Playlist on SpotifyPsalm 8 (Hallé) by Phil WickhamACTS Prayer GuideGroup Discussion Questions for Psalm 9–16:[16:50] David asks "how long" four times in a six-verse psalm. Then his mind quickly pivots from lament to trust in God's unfailing love. Do you think this ability to vent without spiraling into despair is the secret to David's faithfulness? How could you imitate this in your own faith walk?[23:12] Psalm 15 describes 10 behaviors of someone who walks closely with God. Which of these 10 behaviors feels most like a place of potential growth for you right now?[27:02] Psalm 16 says our security is not tied to a bank account, a home, or a job. God is our portion. What is one thing you tend to rely on for security more than God, and what would it look like to loosen your grip on it?Contact Bible Book Club!Social: Instagram or FacebookWebsite: Bible Book ClubReview Us: Apple Podcast or SpotifyJoin the Fun: DONATE or Buy merchThis episode is part of our ongoing Bible Book Club series, starting with Genesis and journeying all the way through the Bible. Thanks for listening!
When We Feel Abandoned by God - Psalm 22 Dr. Will Spivey, NextGen Pastor Prayer Requests: https://fbco.wufoo.com/forms/m1a1pr9e0v0l9b9/ Subscribe to our Email Messenger (Weekly Newsletter): www.fbcopelika.com/messenger Guest Registration: https://fbcopelika.com/guest-registration/ Online Giving: https://www.fbcopelika.com/give Serve: https://fbcopelika.com/serve/ Sermon Archives: https://www.youtube.com/ OR fbcomedia.com.
Here's a YouTube summary and description written from the perspective of ‘We' (Christadelphians), using British English spelling and the required elements.---**Video Title:** The Christadelphians: #13 A Priest Forever – Harry Tennant**Description:**In this **outstanding** and **thought-provoking** presentation, we explore a question that lies at the very heart of God's purpose: *Who will be the promised King?* If human sinfulness doomed Israel's kingdom, how can anything better emerge? The answer is **revealing** and breathtaking.Join us as we trace the golden thread of prophecy from Jacob's blessing over Judah to God's unbreakable covenant with David. We then examine Nebuchadnezzar's dream—a **wonderful**, divinely given panorama of world empires—and the mysterious stone that smashes them all. This stone, we learn, is none other than Christ Himself, the Priest-King forever.This **expositional** journey is packed with **insightful** connections between Genesis, Ezekiel, Daniel and the New Testament, demonstrating that God's Kingdom on earth with Christ as King is the Bible's clearest hope. If you long for a world of righteousness and peace, this video will inspire and strengthen your faith.**
Sunday night 5/31/26 - This evenings message is titled "This Is a Work Hard and Rest In God Psalm" - Psalm 127 - Pastor James Eakins
Message: Psalm 16 - The Blessings of God Dr. Will Spivey, NextGen Pastor Prayer Requests: https://fbco.wufoo.com/forms/m1a1pr9e0v0l9b9/ Subscribe to our Email Messenger (Weekly Newsletter): www.fbcopelika.com/messenger Guest Registration: https://fbcopelika.com/guest-registration/ Online Giving: https://www.fbcopelika.com/give Serve: https://fbcopelika.com/serve/ Sermon Archives: https://www.youtube.com/ OR fbcomedia.com.
All Praise To God - Psalm 103 - Matt Grist
Comparison is a subtle thief. In Psalm 73, Asaph takes us on a painfully honest journey from confidence in God to frustration, envy, and spiritual confusion. While looking at the success of the wicked, he began to lose sight of the goodness of God, and what started as comparison slowly became a slippery slope away from the Lord. Join us as we walk through Psalm 73 and rediscover this powerful truth: no matter how far our hearts may wander, it is always good to draw near to God.
Psalm 143 — Hope for the Weary Soul Walking Through the Psalms | Dave Jenkins There are seasons in the Christian life when the soul feels weary, discouraged, and overwhelmed. In Psalm 143, David cries out to the Lord for mercy, guidance, and steadfast love in the middle of spiritual exhaustion and suffering. In this episode of Walking Through the Psalms, Dave Jenkins explains how Psalm 143 teaches believers to honestly bring their struggles before God, remember His faithfulness, seek His guidance, and rest in His steadfast love through Christ alone. Listen or Watch Audio: Video: Episode Summary Psalm 143 is the final penitential psalm and gives voice to the weary believer who brings sorrow, fear, weakness, and need honestly before the Lord. David does not hide his weakness from God. Instead, he cries out for mercy, remembers the works of the Lord, asks for guidance, and rests in the steadfast love of God. This psalm reminds Christians that God hears the prayers of weary believers, guides His people by His Word and Spirit, and preserves them by His mercy and faithfulness. Key Scripture Psalm 143 1 Peter 5:7 Galatians 6:1–2 2 Corinthians 5 Episode Highlights Why weary believers should cry out to God for mercy How Psalm 143 speaks to spiritual exhaustion and discouragement The importance of remembering God's faithfulness Why Christians need God's Word, Spirit, guidance, and people How Psalm 143 points us to the righteousness and mercy of Christ Main Points Crying Out for Mercy Before a Holy God — Psalm 143:1–2 When the Soul Feels Overwhelmed — Psalm 143:3–4 Remembering the Faithfulness of God — Psalm 143:5–6 Seeking the Lord's Guidance and Steadfast Love — Psalm 143:7–10 Resting in the Steadfast Love of God — Psalm 143:11–12 Why This Matters Psalm 143 reminds us that bringing weakness before God is not failure. It is faith. The Christian life includes seasons of sorrow, discouragement, and heaviness, but believers are never left without hope. The Lord hears His people, leads them by His Word, and upholds them by His steadfast love. Ultimately, Psalm 143 points us to Christ, the truly righteous One, who bore judgment for sinners and rose again so that His people might receive mercy, forgiveness, guidance, and everlasting hope. Reflection Questions Where do you feel weary, discouraged, or overwhelmed right now? Have you brought those burdens honestly before the Lord in prayer? How can remembering God's past faithfulness strengthen your faith today? Are you seeking the Lord's guidance through His Word and Spirit? Who are trusted, mature believers in your local church you can share burdens with? Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe to the Servants of Grace Podcast, for our Psalm series or at our YouTube and share it with a friend, and visit Servants of Grace for more biblical teaching, theology, and discipleship resources.
Exploring the Connection Between Matthew 19, the Book of Psalms, and Isaiah 19 For Bible in Ten – By DH – 19th May 2026 Yesterday we completed Matthew 19. Nineteen according to E W Bullinger is “a combination of 10 and 9, and would denote the perfection of Divine order connected with judgment.” During our episodes through Matthew 19, we already learned how “..the words of Chapter 19 span all the dispensations of time.” CG . In Matthew 19 Jesus brought judgments which referenced creation, the law, the insufficiency of human merit, faith and grace, and looking forward to the millennial kingdom. As we will see in this bonus episode we can also find these references in Psalms. Isaiah 19 also adds a sharper prophetic focus. It lends support to the judgment theme. According to BibleHub “It presents a two-fold prophecy against Egypt, revealing not only a looming divine judgment but also an ultimate transformation and redemption. This dual-nature prophecy exemplifies the complexity of God's plans for nations and His sovereignty over all things.” In Matthew 19 every false confidence is judged: confidence in legal argument, in religious achievement, in wealth, in status, and confidence in the flesh. In the end, the chapter points to Christ alone. Consider the following seven sections which trace Matthew 19 as a historical sweep: from creation order and marriage, through law and human hardness, into grace, kingdom promise, final judgment, and the believer's reward before Christ. Innocence and Creation When answering the Pharisees' question about breaking up marriage, Jesus does not begin His answer with Moses. He goes further back. He goes to creation: “Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning made them male and female?” Psalms has many Creation references too: “The heavens are telling of the glory of God…” Psalm 19:1 “By the word of the LORD the heavens were made…” Psalm 33:6 “How many are Your works, LORD! In wisdom You have made them all…” Psalm 104:24 To Him who made the heavens with skill, For His faithfulness is everlasting; 6 To Him who spread out the earth above the waters, For His faithfulness is everlasting; 7 To Him who made the great lights, For His faithfulness is everlasting: 8 The sun to rule by day, For His faithfulness is everlasting, 9 The moon and stars to rule by night, For His faithfulness is everlasting. Psalm 136:5–9 3 Praise Him, sun and moon; Praise Him, all stars of light! 4 Praise Him, highest heavens, And the waters that are above the heavens! 5 They are to praise the name of the Lord, For He commanded and they were created. Psalm 148:3–5 The earth is the Lord's, and all it contains, The world, and those who live in it. 2 For He has founded it upon the seas And established it upon the rivers. Psalm 24:1–2 You visit the earth and cause it to overflow; You greatly enrich it; The stream of God is full of water; You prepare their grain, for so You prepare the earth. 10 You water its furrows abundantly, You settle its ridges, You soften it with showers, You bless its growth. 11 You have crowned the year with Your goodness, And Your paths drip with fatness. 12 The pastures of the wilderness drip, And the hills encircle themselves with rejoicing. 13 The meadows are clothed with flocks And the valleys are covered with grain; They shout for joy, yes, they sing Psalm 65:9–13 Man was created for ordered life beneath the Lord. Marriage belongs to that created order. It was established by God at the beginning and Psalm 128 references it in verse 3. “Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house…” Psalm 128:3 Law and the Hardness of Heart The Pharisees then press the matter further: “Why then did Moses command to give a certificate of divorce, and to put her away?” Jesus answers: “Moses, because of the hardness of your hearts, permitted you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so.” The law could regulate certain consequences of sin, but it could not cure the heart of man. Moses' allowance was not the original ideal. It was an accommodation because of hardness of heart. Psalm 1, Psalm 19, and Psalm 119 all uphold the goodness of the law. The law is not evil. The commandments of the Lord are righteous. The word of God is pure, true, and desirable. But Psalms also makes clear that man himself is the problem. Psalm 14:3 says: “They have all turned aside, together they are corrupt; There is no one who does good, not even one. ” Psalm 143 says: “And do not enter into judgment with Your servant, For no person living is righteous in Your sight.” verse 2. Psalm 51 gives the heart of the issue. David does not merely need external correction. He cries: “Create in me a clean heart, God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me..” verse 10. The law highlights sin in man but cannot correct man's fallen state. Psalms illuminates this powerfully. Psalm 49 says: “None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him.” That is the heart of the matter. Man cannot redeem himself. Wealth cannot ransom the soul. Moral seriousness cannot purchase eternal life. Psalm 62 warns: “If riches increase, do not set your heart on them.” Grace through Faith After this, children are brought to Jesus so that He might place His hands on them and pray. Psalm 131 verse 2 says: “I have certainly soothed and quieted my soul; Like a weaned child resting against his mother, My soul within me is like a weaned child.” That is the spirit of Matthew 19. The kingdom is not entered through self-confident legal achievement, but through humble dependence. Psalm 8 also says: “From the mouths of infants and nursing babies You have established strength Because of Your enemies, To do away with the enemy and the revengeful.” Jesus later cites this psalm in Matthew 21. The children, the weak, the dependent, and the seemingly insignificant often perceive what a more mature mind misses. The disciples wrongly rebuke the children. Jesus corrects them. The Lord is near to the humble, the broken, the dependent, and the trusting. The children become a living illustration of the kind of faith that enters the kingdom. The Royal and Millennial Hope Peter then asks what will be given to the disciples, since they have left all and followed Jesus. Jesus answers: “You who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” This moves Matthew 19 forward to the millennial kingdom. Psalm 2 presents the Lord's Anointed as King: “Yet I have set My King on My holy hill of Zion.” Psalm 72 looks forward to the righteous reign of the King, marked by justice, peace, dominion, and blessing. Psalm 89 recalls the Davidic covenant and the certainty of God's promises. Psalm 110 presents the Messiah seated at the right hand of God until His enemies are made His footstool. Psalm 122 says: “For thrones are set there for judgment, the thrones of the house of David.” The Dispensational Sweep of Matthew 19 The chapter begins with creation order: male and female, marriage, and God's original design. It moves to law: Moses, divorce, hardness of heart, and the insufficiency of legal accommodation. It then displays grace: the children come to Christ with nothing, and Jesus receives them. It exposes human inability: the rich young ruler cannot obtain life through personal merit, morality, or wealth. It reveals divine possibility: with man salvation is impossible, but with God all things are possible. It then looks forward to the millennial kingdom: the apostles will sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Isaiah 19 and The Great White Throne Judgment At the Great White Throne, all false confidence is finally exposed. Only those who are in Christ have a righteousness that can stand before God. Isaiah 19 gives a searching picture of Egypt brought under the judgment of the LORD. Egypt's idols tremble. Her wisdom fails. Her princes become fools. Her counsellors are unable to give true guidance. The nation that once appeared ancient, powerful, wealthy, and secure is shown to be helpless before God. This is a stark picture of misplaced confidence. Matthew 19 teaches the same spiritual lesson. Do not trust law-performance, wealth, status, fleshly advantage, religious seriousness, or human ability. With men this is impossible. The rich young ruler appears clothed in morality, youth, wealth, and religious seriousness. But when Christ presses the true demand of perfection, the man is exposed. His confidence cannot save him. His possessions have his heart. He goes away sorrowful. He is like Egypt in Isaiah 19. What seemed wise, strong, and secure is brought to nothing before the LORD. This points forward to the Great White Throne Judgment, where every person outside of Christ will stand fully exposed before God. The books will be opened. No earthly confidence will remain. No religious appearance will cover the soul. No wealth, status, morality, wisdom, or human achievement can answer the demands of divine righteousness. Isaiah 19 shows the collapse of national confidence before the LORD. Matthew 19 shows the collapse of personal confidence before Christ. The Great White Throne shows the final collapse of every confidence outside of God's saving righteousness. Matthew 19 and the Judgment of the believer Matthew 19 ends with the judgment: “But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” In the 19th book of the Bible, Psalms repeatedly shows divine reversal. The proud are brought low. The humble are lifted up. The wicked may flourish temporarily, but they do not endure. The righteous may suffer for a time, but they are finally vindicated. Psalm 37 says the meek shall inherit the earth. Psalm 73 shows the prosperous brought to nothing. Psalm 113 says the Lord raises the poor out of the dust and lifts the needy out of the ash heap. Psalm 118 speaks of the rejected stone becoming the chief cornerstone. Isaiah 19 dramatizes the same reversal negatively. Those who seemed powerful and reliable, Egypt and Cush, are exposed in shame. Their apparent strength becomes humiliation. So Matthew 19 teaches that the judgment of believers will expose the true value of a life. Some things that looked great on earth will be shown to be small. Some sacrifices that looked foolish or unnoticed will be openly rewarded by Christ. Life Application At the Judgment Seat of Christ, the question is not, “Are you saved?” No. The believer's condemnation has already been dealt with in Christ. The question is rather: “How have you as a saved person followed, served, sacrificed, and valued Christ?” Let us not measure our life only by what we keep now, but by what Christ will count then. Lord God, thank You that salvation does not rest upon our merit, wealth, strength, or status. Thank You that what is impossible with man is possible with You. Help us come as children, trust in Christ, and await the kingdom You have promised. For your glory! Amen.
Written by Ireland's great composer Turlough O'Carolan, Eleanor Plunkett is a cascading tune, set here to a Psalm of yearning and praise. It begins with longing like a “dry land,” acknowledging our deep desire to be in God's presence, through which we can be “satisfied” as though our thirst is quenched.Continue your reflections with the accompanying journal, which includes further questions for reflection and some invitations to prayer and practice.Paid subscribers receive a free journal PDF, or you can purchase a paperback versionVisit the Celtic Psalms website for scores/books, mp3s, CDs, and videos for O God, You Are My GodFind out more about the Habits for the Spirit course: an 8-week online course exploring habits and daily spiritual practices to promote wellbeing in body, mind, and spiritFollow Kiran's monthly reflections on Bless My FeetPsalms for the Spirit is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit psalmsforthespirit.substack.com/subscribe
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
Building with God Psalm 127:1 May 17, 2026 Dr. John Reynolds
Let me begin by describing what a toxic person is. Toxic means poisonous, dangerous, harmful, and persistent. So, a toxic person is one who can poison an atmosphere, and their actions and words are harmful and repetitive. Not just a once-in-awhile bad day, but a recurring unhealthy and hurtful behavior. Here are some signs that a person is toxic: They talk more than they listen. They are always right—never admit to being wrong. They are drama queens or kings—drama seems to follow them everywhere. They lack tact and general courtesy. They often lie to make themselves look good or to get what they want. They exhibit controlling behaviors. They love to talk about other people—to gossip. They are in general very negative people. Here's the first thing I want to remind you, as we talk about dealing with toxic people. They are people that God loves, just as much as he loves you. I remember long ago when I worked for a boss who was anything but pleasant; I just found it hard to even be around him. But I remember clearly one day when the thought came to me, no doubt from the Holy Spirit, that God loved him just as much as he loved me. I had to sit down and think about it. How could God love someone so unlovable? But it's true, because God is love, that he loves that toxic person in your life just as much as he loves you. And secondly, that person is not in your life by accident. God is allowing it—not approving of their behavior, mind you—but allowing that person in your life for some good reason. It could be to help you grow in grace, as you learn to deal with them. It could be for the good influence you could have on that toxic person—it could be both. But trust me, God has some good reason for this person being in your life. We are told in Scripture: If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18). That's our assignment for dealing with toxic people. Others may live by more commonly accepted relationship principles, such as, Look out for number one! Don't take any guff! Stand up for your rights! They may have no motivation to live at peace with everyone, but we are called to this Christ-like objective. It is a lofty one; it is often out of step with the world's wisdom; it is often not appreciated or valued by others. But as disciples of Jesus Christ, it is our guiding principle. And for sure, when we can respond to toxic people with more patience, more kindness, and less anger than others, we are demonstrating the love of Jesus, and it won't be missed. Your coworkers may not believe in God. They may never go to church. They may even think you are some kind of religious fanatic, but they cannot escape the difference in the way you respond to toxic people when you allow God's Spirit to empower you to respond like Jesus would. I think your first challenge is to get your own attitude and reactions to toxic people under control. Learn to do some things that will keep you from—as we say—going crazy. Here are four practical things you can do to protect yourself when you're dealing with a truly toxic person. Don't let your thoughts and mind dwell on them all the time. When dealing with such a disruptive and irritating person—on a regular basis, no less—it's very natural to let their behavior occupy your mind and your thoughts way too much. So, if you find you're dwelling on their behavior and you're giving them too much thought time, you need to firmly and swiftly boot the person out of your head. Refuse to let them take over your mind. Philippians 4 tells us to think about things that are lovely, pure, noble—and that pretty much excludes that toxic person. So, stop giving them time in your mind. And how do you do that? You do it by replacing thoughts of them with good thoughts, thankfulness, reciting your blessings, and focusing on God's goodness. That's what it means to bring every thought into captivity and make it obedient to Christ, as we read in 2 Corinthians 10:5. This is a spiritual discipline that will make a huge difference in your life. If you have not already discovered this truth and learned how to take wrong thoughts captive, I recommend a book I've written on it, entitled Think About What You Think About. So, as you head out to work each day, ask the Holy Spirit to remind you to boot those wrong thoughts out of your mind, to help you refuse to allow this toxic person to occupy your thoughts. That is a very important first step. Distance yourself from them as much as possible. You've heard a lot about setting boundaries, I'm sure. The Bible teaches us to set boundaries. For example, these two passages from Proverbs: Proverbs 4:14 – 15: Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evildoers. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way. Proverbs 16:17: The highway of the upright avoids evil; those who guard their ways preserve their lives. And Philippians 4:7 tells us the peace of God will guard our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus. So, we have to be wise about distancing ourselves from people who would fill our minds with evil and try to bring us down emotionally. You may not be able to distance yourself from a toxic person physically, if they are a coworker, but if that is not possible, learn to distance yourself mentally and emotionally. Pray each day that God will protect your mind and teach you how to literally tune them out when you can. You know, if you can wear headphones where you work, you could use that as a buffer between you and that toxic person. Even if you don't listen to anything on your earphones, just wearing them creates some distance. Seek relationships at work with uplifting people. Hopefully, there are constructive people in your workplace. Spend time with them, not talking about the toxic person, but talking about fun things, happy things. Uplifting people are a great counterbalance to toxic people. I remember when one of our pastors answered one of my emails with one of his funny quips. It was on a day when I felt like the world was closing in on me—you've had those days, I'm sure. When I read his funny email, I just laughed heartily and thanked God for a friend like him who can always lift my spirits. I've known him more than 25 years, and he has this wonderful gift of finding what I call the “happy spot.” I hope you have people you work with who can always lift your spirit. Look for them and spend time with them as an antidote for the toxic people around you. Watch your self-talk. Don't be your own worst enemy by talking to yourself in discouraging ways. You know, we all talk to ourselves, and typically we believe what we tell ourselves, don't we? So, watch out for your self-talk and use it for good in your life. Talk to yourself on a regular basis with good news. Don't allow your thoughts to linger in negative territory. You can control what you say to yourself! Listen to how the Psalmist talks to himself: Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God (Psalm 42:11). Well, there are four practical things you can do to protect yourself from the toxicity of coworkers who may be causing discord and disharmony where you work. This attitude change toward toxic people has to be a God-thing or it will never be a reality. The good news is as Christ-followers, we have the power to put these into practice, because we have been given God's Spirit, indwelling us and empowering us. And it begins, as so much does, by prayer. Daily praying something like this: “Lord, whoever I deal with today, help me to see them the way you see them. Remind me that you love them and their real need is to know you.” In his book, Reaching for the Invisible God, Philip Yancey advises that it is easier to act your way into feelings than to feel your way into actions.[1] In other words, do what you know is right to do and let the feelings follow, if they will. If you wait on your feelings to kick in before you do what you know you should do, you'll be in waiting mode many days, if you're like me! John wrote: God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him (1 John 4:16b). Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth (1 John 3:18). This kind of love is an action, not a feeling. It is a decision not a desire. Sometimes the feelings and desires are present; sometimes they are not. Either way, if we live in God, we must live in love. One of the greatest indications that we truly “live in God” and are new creations in Christ Jesus is our willingness to extend this God-love to people who would have no claim on our love otherwise. After all, these toxic coworkers can't expect you to love them, can they? It's not in your job description, and no one can demand it from you. Therefore, when you choose to love in actions and truth, you show a loveless world a little sample of what Jesus is like. You become the love of God reaching out to them, unconditional love, which cannot be explained or ignored. It is powerful in its implications and effects on the relationships of our lives. One small verse in 1 Corinthians 13 reminds us that Love never fails. When nothing else works, try love. When there seems to be no way to improve a relationship, try love. Love never fails. Just as a reminder, tell yourself frequently that workplaces will be workplaces. In most cases, you have a lot of different personalities thrown into one cauldron during working hours. Drama, power struggles, and office politics are often inevitable, at least to some extent. Try to keep yourself as far removed from all this as possible. Concentrate on your own work and excellence and let people be people. — [1] Yancey, P. (2000). Reaching for the invisible God : what can we expect to find? Zondervan.
It is time this very minute to pray and seek God. Time to set our timers and pray for the minute. This podcast encourages us to stop for a minute and, now, in the presence of our Heavenly Father—with praise and prayer—worship Him in Jesus' name and in the power of the Holy Spirit. ———— *We do not own the rights to music played on this podcast.
Erin Pacheco, Director of Worship
We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. — 2 Corinthians 10:5 Neuroscientists have discovered that we average about 6,000 thoughts per day. What a challenge it is to “take captive every thought” for Christ!There are strongholds of thoughts within us that resist submission to God. You probably have one or two of them. They are little parts of our character and thought patterns that are opposed to God. They have signs set up that say, “God is not needed here.” Perhaps it is the way you think about sex. Perhaps it is the way you view a neighbor or a relative. Perhaps it is the way you use the earth's resources. Or something else.Yet there is no piece of our mind that does not belong to God. Every inch of it must surrender to God. How? First, “be still, and know that [the Lord is] God” (Psalm 46:10). Admit that the stronghold you have set up in your mind is challenging the right of the King of kings to rule your life. It opposes true knowledge of God. Second, confess this sin to God, and perhaps also to a trusted Christian friend. Third, with the help of the Holy Spirit, challenge the strongholds of falsehood with the true knowledge of God. You can do this by saying to yourself, “No, that isn't right. I know that is not what God wants.” And, if necessary, tell yourself the same thing later when the devil responds with, “Did God really say . . . ?”It is a never-ending battle. But Christ has already won it. Holy Spirit, you live within us. Help us to recognize evil strongholds in our minds and to break them down with the power of your truth. Amen.
In periodes van droogte en dorst kun je bij God nieuwe kracht vinden. Zijn liefde is als een bron van levend water in de woestijn. Ontdek die rust vandaag.
Justin Paul-Lawrence, Executive Director
Madi opens up about the hidden struggles we try to keep buried… the thoughts, habits, fears, and sins we hope no one sees. But Psalm 139 reminds us of something powerful: God already knows every part of us, and He still invites us closer. So why do we keep hiding? Why do we carry shame instead of surrendering it? This episode dives into David's prayer: "Search me, God, and know my heart," and what it looks like to honestly invite God into the places we try to avoid. Because conviction from God isn't meant to condemn you… it's meant to heal you. In this conversation, Madi talks about: -Why hidden sin keeps us stuck in shame -What it means to let God search your heart -How God creates a clean and pure heart through surrender -Why freedom begins with honesty before God My prayer is that you would stop hiding, let God into the deepest parts of your heart, and experience the freedom, healing, and purity only He can bring. New episodes every Thursday at 7am EST
How long can you carry something before it breaks you?And what do you do when God feels… silent?In this teaching on Psalm 13, John Ortberg walks us through one of the most honest prayers in Scripture: “How long, O Lord?”When pain lingers, when answers don't come, and when God feels distant, we face a choice. We can grumble—turning inward in bitterness and withdrawal—or we can groan—bringing our pain honestly before God.This Psalm shows us how to lament in a way that leads somewhere. Not by denying pain, but by bringing it fully into God's presence.If you're carrying something heavy right now—a relationship, anxiety, loss, or a long unanswered prayer—this teaching will help you turn that pain into prayer.
On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison walk through the Psalms as a sacred space where every emotion is welcome. From the unresolved grief of Psalm 88 to the messianic hope of Psalm 22, they remind us that God meets us in both sorrow and praise. This episode becomes an invitation to worship with joy, freedom, and abandon. So grab your Bible, pull up a chair on the porch with us—we're really glad you're here.
Erin Pacheco, Director of Worship
Do you ever feel like you "can't pray?: Have you ever felt that your words are hollow, repetitive, or not reaching? The good news is that you're not alone! Most Christians, even mature ones, hit this wall once in a while. But younger Christians may not know there's a simple and practical way out.In this episode, we talk about one of the most practical tools in Scripture for transforming your prayer life: praying the Psalms. When you don't know what to say to God, the Psalms give you His own words to speak back to Him, and that changes everything.Whether you're dealing with anxiety, grief, guilt, or just feeling spiritually lost, the Psalms meet you exactly where you are. We walk through how to use them, not just recite them, but make them your own, so prayer becomes a real conversation instead of a ritual.In this episode: • Why prayer starts to feel empty (and why it's not your fault) • How praying Scripture, especially the Psalms, reignites a real connection with God • Psalm 25 & 27: for anxiety and fear • Psalm 31: for grief and emotional exhaustion • Psalm 51: for guilt and a need for restoration • Psalm 23: for when you feel lost and directionless • A simple, practical step to start praying the Psalms TODAYIf prayer has felt like an obligation instead of a conversation, this episode is your next step. You don't need perfect words. God already gave you some.SUBSCRIBE to our channel / @binmin_org JOIN the NEWSLETTER at https://binmin.org/newsletter/SUPPORT Binmin with a tax-deductible gift HERE - https://binmin.org/donateYouTube Chapters0:00 When Prayer Feels Boring or Empty 1:15 The Solution: Praying Scripture 2:30 How to Pray the Psalms (The Simple Method) 4:00 Psalm 25 & 27: When You're Anxious or Afraid 5:45 Psalm 31: When You're Grieving 7:00 Psalm 51: When You Feel Guilty 8:30 Psalm 23: When You Feel Lost 10:00 Your Practical Next StepJOIN the NEWSLETTER. SUPPORT Binmin with a tax-deductible gift HERECONNECT WITH BINMIN: TikTok Instagram Facebook Linkedin Binmin.orgQuestions?: info@binmin.orgPODCAST RESOURCES: More from Binmin: Binmin.org Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Follow on Spotify Subscribe on YouTubeLEAVE A REVIEW on Apple podcasts
April 26th, 2026 Pastor Chad McDonald Charles Spurgeon had this to say about Psalm 51. “Such a psalm may be wept over, absorbed into the soul, and exhaled again in devotion; but, commented on – ah! where is he who having attempted it can do other than blush at his defeat.” I have certainly felt this way in preparation for this weekend’s message. There is probably no more well-known, humbling, convicting, and encouraging psalm in the whole Bible. I encourage you to take the time to read it in preparation for worship this weekend. Come before the Word humbly and allow its truth to penetrate your heart. Prayerfully we will all realize afresh and anew the lovingkindness of God as we study it together. Don’t forget our 8 am worship service on Sunday mornings and our 5 pm service on Saturday night. Whichever service you attend, I look forward to seeing you this weekend. In Christ, Pastor Chad
April 26th, 2026 Pastor Chad McDonald Charles Spurgeon had this to say about Psalm 51. “Such a psalm may be wept over, absorbed into the soul, and exhaled again in devotion; but, commented on – ah! where is he who having attempted it can do other than blush at his defeat.” I have certainly felt this way in preparation for this weekend’s message. There is probably no more well-known, humbling, convicting, and encouraging psalm in the whole Bible. I encourage you to take the time to read it in preparation for worship this weekend. Come before the Word humbly and allow its truth to penetrate your heart. Prayerfully we will all realize afresh and anew the lovingkindness of God as we study it together. Don’t forget our 8 am worship service on Sunday mornings and our 5 pm service on Saturday night. Whichever service you attend, I look forward to seeing you this weekend. In Christ, Pastor Chad
April 26th, 2026 Pastor Chad McDonald Charles Spurgeon had this to say about Psalm 51. “Such a psalm may be wept over, absorbed into the soul, and exhaled again in devotion; but, commented on – ah! where is he who having attempted it can do other than blush at his defeat.” I have certainly felt this way in preparation for this weekend’s message. There is probably no more well-known, humbling, convicting, and encouraging psalm in the whole Bible. I encourage you to take the time to read it in preparation for worship this weekend. Come before the Word humbly and allow its truth to penetrate your heart. Prayerfully we will all realize afresh and anew the lovingkindness of God as we study it together. Don’t forget our 8 am worship service on Sunday mornings and our 5 pm service on Saturday night. Whichever service you attend, I look forward to seeing you this weekend. In Christ, Pastor Chad
The 1st part is in English, and the 2nd part is in Malayalam starting 7:04 mark.We are created to live in glory like GodPsalm 8:5 – “Yet you have made him a little lower than God, and You crown him with glory and majesty.” നീ അവനെ ദൈവത്തെക്കാൾ അല്പം മാത്രം താഴ്ത്തി, തേജസ്സും ബഹുമാനവും അവനെ അണിയിച്ചിരിക്കുന്നു.Man is made a little lower than God and crowned with glory and dignity. God gave man power over everything in the world and allowed him to rule over it. The entire creation of God is called to glorify God in their own way and in their own capacity, including heaven, earth, ocean, trees and animals. There is no doubt that God wants it that way because it is repeatedly said in the Bible, and we see with our eyes. By doing their duties in the proper way, they glorify God. The question is, “Are the humans glorifying God properly?”My name... Cicilysunny@gmail.com
Justin Paul-Lawrence, Executive Director
Have you noticed how quickly disappointment follows when expectations are placed on the wrong things—people, circumstances, plans, even your own strength? In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef reminds us that only God's promises can carry the full weight of our expectations. Dr. Youssef takes us to Luke 2:25–35, where we meet Simeon—an ordinary man with extraordinary hope. Simeon had spent his life waiting for the Messiah, trusting God's Word that he would personally see the Christ. After years of watching and waiting, Simeon finally held the infant Jesus in his arms and prayed with calm certainty: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised… you may now dismiss your servant in peace” (Luke 2:29–32). Simeon wasn't shocked that God came through—he expected it, because his hope was rooted in the faithfulness of God. This devotional will help you contrast Simeon's steady confidence with the shaky expectations we often place on this world—and call you to re-anchor your heart in what never fails. God's timing may stretch longer than you'd like and His methods may surprise you, but He will always fulfill His promises. Prayer: God, help me to place my expectations in You, not in this world. I know that You will never disappoint me. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God” (Psalm 42:11). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Unrealistic Expectations, Hope That Will Not Disappoint: WATCH NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.
Known By God (Psalm 139) // Allen Hood @allenhood Main Text; Psalm 139--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------For more information visit; https://goldstreetgarden.comFor more info on Allen visit; https://www.excellencies.org
Host Darryl Anderson introduces a Man to Man 360 “Man Cave” edition titled “The Winning Edge,” based on 1 Samuel 22 and the cave of Adullam, urging men to see themselves as winners through redemption and God's power and to identify areas they're winning in and where they want to win next. He emphasizes the Man Cave is discipleship and brotherhood, not just a second-Friday event, requiring consistent individual check-ins beyond meetings and creating connection points that can draw others to church. Jeff teaches that David, though overlooked and pursued, processed despair through God (Psalm 142), and God sent 400 distressed, discontented, indebted men whom David developed into loyal valiant warriors, illustrating faith, humility, perseverance, excellence, and full commitment. The message closes by challenging men to be “all in,” even willing to die for the mission, and to adopt a winner's mindset.Try our NEW Fan Mail experience and send us a Text Message from HERE!
"Moon joy." That's what the Artemis commander called the crew's lunar euphoria as they approached the moon. And that was just the beginning. For all their science, for all their simulations, they were almost at a loss for words. The view behind the moon and seeing the Earth left them in awe. And to think - they were looking at one little blue marble in one galaxy. In what is estimated now to be two trillion galaxies! Four people have now traveled farther from our planet than all the billions who have lived on Earth. The commander said "It was the most spectacular moment... It paused all four of us in our tracks." As they got their first full glimpse of their home planet. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "The View From the Moon and the Search in Your Heart." We're wow-ed by our sunsets on earth. They got to see an "Earthset" as the earth dropped below the lunar horizon - and a stunning view of the moon eclipsing the sun. Commander Wiseman said, "No matter how long we look at this, our brains are not processing this image in front of us. It is absolutely spectacular. Surreal. I know there's no adjectives. I'm going to need to invent some new ones to describe what we are looking at out this window." Three thousand years ago, the psalmist David seemed to be lost in wonder, too, just viewing the night sky from earth. Here's what he said in our word for today from the Word of God - Psalm 8:3-4. "When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place, what is mankind that You are mindful of them, human beings that You care for them?" (Psalm 8:3-4). The wonders of our tiny corner of the cosmos overflow the heart, whether simple or scientific. So what is the word for what we feel in these awe-filled moments that take us beyond ourselves? The word is worship. But, like love, worship is incomplete without an object. "I love" is a nice beginning, but it needs a name after it. So does a heart that is overflowing with feelings of wonder, inspired by the majesty of creation. Creation itself is not enough for a heart in search of somewhere to land our soaring soul. We are reaching for the Source. The sacred Scriptures complete our cosmic soul journey by pointing us to Jesus. The Christ. The Son of God. Colossians 1 says, "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible... all things have been created through Him and for Him" (Colossians 1:15-16). One crew member said, "You're on a spaceship called Earth that was created to give us a place to live. You are special." Looking at the cosmos from this "special" place, David marveled that the Creator of it all would be "mindful" of us or "care for" us. This planet is not even a speck in the oceans of galaxies. But it is here that God Almighty chose to make creatures in His own image! Made - and here's what takes my breath away - to have a love relationship with Him! The Son of God Himself came here, to this little planet to make that relationship possible - by dying for the sin that stands between us. The wonders of a space journey to our farthest destination so far have revealed the greater journey of every heart on this planet. To find the One behind the wonders. Who not only created this planet. But who has visited this planet to take us to Him. The wonder of all wonders is that... "God so loved the world!" This world. Our world. Us. And the relationship He made us for is within your reach today if you say, "Jesus, I am Yours from this day forward." If you want that relationship, then our website is for you today, go there. It's ANewStory.com. When you reach for Jesus, the greatest wonder of all is not in the skies. It's in your heart. He's in your heart.
"Moon joy." That's what the Artemis commander called the crew's lunar euphoria as they approached the moon. And that was just the beginning. For all their science, for all their simulations, they were almost at a loss for words. The view behind the moon and seeing the Earth left them in awe. And to think - they were looking at one little blue marble in one galaxy. In what is estimated now to be two trillion galaxies! Four people have now traveled farther from our planet than all the billions who have lived on Earth. The commander said "It was the most spectacular moment... It paused all four of us in our tracks." As they got their first full glimpse of their home planet. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "The View From the Moon and the Search in Your Heart." We're wow-ed by our sunsets on earth. They got to see an "Earthset" as the earth dropped below the lunar horizon - and a stunning view of the moon eclipsing the sun. Commander Wiseman said, "No matter how long we look at this, our brains are not processing this image in front of us. It is absolutely spectacular. Surreal. I know there's no adjectives. I'm going to need to invent some new ones to describe what we are looking at out this window." Three thousand years ago, the psalmist David seemed to be lost in wonder, too, just viewing the night sky from earth. Here's what he said in our word for today from the Word of God - Psalm 8:3-4. "When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place, what is mankind that You are mindful of them, human beings that You care for them?" (Psalm 8:3-4). The wonders of our tiny corner of the cosmos overflow the heart, whether simple or scientific. So what is the word for what we feel in these awe-filled moments that take us beyond ourselves? The word is worship. But, like love, worship is incomplete without an object. "I love" is a nice beginning, but it needs a name after it. So does a heart that is overflowing with feelings of wonder, inspired by the majesty of creation. Creation itself is not enough for a heart in search of somewhere to land our soaring soul. We are reaching for the Source. The sacred Scriptures complete our cosmic soul journey by pointing us to Jesus. The Christ. The Son of God. Colossians 1 says, "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible... all things have been created through Him and for Him" (Colossians 1:15-16). One crew member said, "You're on a spaceship called Earth that was created to give us a place to live. You are special." Looking at the cosmos from this "special" place, David marveled that the Creator of it all would be "mindful" of us or "care for" us. This planet is not even a speck in the oceans of galaxies. But it is here that God Almighty chose to make creatures in His own image! Made - and here's what takes my breath away - to have a love relationship with Him! The Son of God Himself came here, to this little planet to make that relationship possible - by dying for the sin that stands between us. The wonders of a space journey to our farthest destination so far have revealed the greater journey of every heart on this planet. To find the One behind the wonders. Who not only created this planet. But who has visited this planet to take us to Him. The wonder of all wonders is that... "God so loved the world!" This world. Our world. Us. And the relationship He made us for is within your reach today if you say, "Jesus, I am Yours from this day forward." If you want that relationship, then our website is for you today, go there. It's ANewStory.com. When you reach for Jesus, the greatest wonder of all is not in the skies. It's in your heart. He's in your heart.
Make sure you subscribe to this channel and follow us on all our platforms to always stay up to date with our latest content!And you can always head over to our website for any general information!https://godspeak.comPrayer/NeedsIf you have any needs, or have a willingness to be used to meet various need in the body, please email info@godspeak.com. Also, let us know if you need prayer for anything.Giving is part of our worship time, and in this season, the easiest way to do that is online. If you go to our website, godspeak.com, you will see the "Give" tab in the top right corner. Or you can simply click this link https://pushpay.com/g/godspeakAny questions?Please feel free to email us, comment here, or DM us on Instagram any questions that you may have.Please Subscribe to this channel and turn on your notifications to be notified when our Livestreams start so you don't miss out! We hope you are blessed by the service!-The Godspeak Team
Topics: The Full Gospel Series For You To You Through You, Moving From Trying to Trusting (Matthew 11:29), Resting the Soul in Christ Jesus, Five Things Jesus Wants to do Through You, Why Christians are Branches Not Trees (John 15:5), Bearing the Fruit of the Holy Spirit, The Difference Between Dead Fruit and Life Giving Fruit, Why Law Observance Is Fruit Unto Death (Romans 7:5), Living as a Branch Connected to the Vine, The Greater Things of the Body of Christ, Why the Law Is the Ministry of Condemnation (2 Corinthians 3:9), Relying on the Grace of God Within You, Christ Expressing Himself Through Your Personality, Understanding Good Works Prepared by God (Ephesians 2:10), Why Saved by Grace Means Not by Works, Recreated in Christ to Walk in Goodness, Working Hard Through the Grace of God (1 Corinthians 15:10), God Working in You to Will and Act (Philippians 2:13), Living as an Ambassador for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), Having the Mind of Christ Within (1 Corinthians 2:16), The Ministry of Reconciliation Given to Us, How God Does Not Count Sins Against People (2 Corinthians 5:19), Trading the Power of Sin for His Righteousness, Pointing Others to the Finished Work of the Cross, Why the Goodness of God Leads to Repentance (Romans 2:4), Qualified to Speak the Message of the New Covenant, Enjoying the Abundant Life of Jesus (John 10:10), Finding the Secret of Contentment in Him, Fullness of Joy in the Presence of God (Psalm 16:11), Living as a Masterpiece From a State of RestSupport the showSign up for Matt's free daily devotional! https://mattmcmillen.com/newsletter
Justin Paul-Lawrence, Executive Director
Join Pastor Derek Neider in this inspiring episode of The Daily Devotional as he walks us through the Songs of Ascent in the book of Psalm. Through thoughtful reflections, Derek encourages us to embrace our calling to serve Christ wholeheartedly and live out our faith with purpose and surrender.Tune in for insightful teachings, practical application, and a fresh perspective on what it means to live as servants of the gospel. This is just the beginning—there's so much more to come as we journey through Romans together!Thank you for listening! Here are some ways to learn more and stay connected!New to faith? Click here!Learn more about Pastor Derek NeiderFollow Derek on Instagramor FacebookSubscribe to email Subscribe to the daily devotionalExplore recent messages!This podcast was created by Pastor Derek Neider as a ministry of Awaken Las Vegas.Visit our website. We are located at 7175 W. Oquendo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89113. Our gathering times are 9am & 11am Sundays and 6:30pm Thursdays.
Why You're Not Hearing God (And How to Fix It)Are you struggling to hear God's voice?You're not alone.Many believers love God… but feel stuck when it comes to direction, decisions, and clarity.The truth is:
Justin Paul Lawrence, Executive Director
Some years ago, artist Michael Landy counted up everything he owned, making a list of 7,227 possessions. What he did next was eye-opening. Setting up a factory in London’s busiest shopping district, Landy publicly destroyed it all. Clothes, artworks, love letters, even his car, were broken down, placed on a conveyor belt, and fed into grinders. As consumers darted in and out of department stores nearby, Landy’s performance art asked, “Who are we without our possessions?” It’s an important question because most of us buy things to define ourselves or secure our futures. Jesus told a parable about a man who horded his wealth and embraced a consumer lifestyle. “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years,” the man tells himself. “Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry” (Luke 12:19). But what was left when his life was “demanded” from him that night? Only God’s rebuke at having missed what’s most important (vv. 20-21). It isn’t a sin to own things. Michael Landy still needed clothes. But when we’re tempted to find life and identity in what we own, Jesus reminds us that “life does not consist in an abundance of possessions” (v. 15). Who would you be without all your goods? Still a dearly loved child of God (Psalm 103:17; Ephesians 5:1). Out of this secure identity, we can be rich toward God and others.
When life feels urgent, loud, and out of control, the invitation to “be still” can feel impossible. In this episode, we take a deeper look at Psalm 46 and what it truly means to cease striving and trust God in the middle of uncertainty.Through the picture of a sacred pause, we explore how stillness becomes a place of refuge where we bring our fears, lies, and overwhelming emotions before the Lord, and allow Him to be our defender. Looking at the example of Hezekiah and the promises found in Scripture, we are reminded that God is ever present, actively at work, and faithful in every battle we face.For widows and single moms, this is an invitation to release what cannot be controlled, trust God's timing, and rest in His strength.Key Takeaways:Stillness is choosing to cease striving and trust GodYou can bring every lie and fear before the LordGod is your refuge, your defender, and ever-present helpWaiting on God is trusting His timingScripture Focus: Exodus 14:14, Psalm 4:4, Psalm 37:7, Psalm 46:1, 5, 10, Psalm 68:5Encouragement for Moms:Mom, when everything feels overwhelming, you do not have to carry it all or solve it all today. God invites you into stillness to rest under His care and trust Him with what feels out of control.He is near. He is your defender. And He is faithfully at work.Connect + Next Steps:If this episode encouraged you, share it with another mom who may need this reminder.Take time this week to practice stillness before the Lord. Open His Word, give Him your concerns, and sit quietly in His presence.If this podcast has been meaningful to you, I would love for you to leave a review or send a message. Your encouragement helps us continue reaching widows and single moms with biblical hope and practical care.
Full Text of Readings Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord Lectionary: 545 The Saint of the day is Annunciation of the Lord The Story of the Annunciation of the Lord The feast of the Annunciation of the Lord, now recognized as a solemnity, was first celebrated in the fourth or fifth century. Its central focus is the Incarnation: God has become one of us. From all eternity God had decided that the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity should become human. Now, as Luke 1:26-38 tells us, the decision is being realized. The God-Man embraces all humanity, indeed all creation, to bring it to God in one great act of love. Because human beings have rejected God, Jesus will accept a life of suffering and an agonizing death: “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends” (John 15:13). Mary has an important role to play in God's plan. From all eternity, God destined her to be the mother of Jesus and closely related to him in the creation and redemption of the world. We could say that God's decrees of creation and redemption are joined in the decree of Incarnation. Because Mary is God's instrument in the Incarnation, she has a role to play with Jesus in creation and redemption. It is a God-given role. It is God's grace from beginning to end. Mary becomes the eminent figure she is only by God's grace. She is the empty space where God could act. Everything she is she owes to the Trinity. Mary is the virgin-mother who fulfills Isaiah 7:14 in a way that Isaiah could not have imagined. She is united with her son in carrying out the will of God (Psalm 40:8-9; Hebrews 10:7-9; Luke 1:38). Together with Jesus, the privileged and graced Mary is the link between heaven and earth. She is the human being who best, after Jesus, exemplifies the possibilities of human existence. She received into her lowliness the infinite love of God. She shows how an ordinary human being can reflect God in the ordinary circumstances of life. She exemplifies what the Church and every member of the Church is meant to become. She is the ultimate product of the creative and redemptive power of God. She manifests what the Incarnation is meant to accomplish for all of us. Reflection Sometimes spiritual writers are accused of putting Mary on a pedestal and thereby, discouraging ordinary humans from imitating her. Perhaps such an observation is misguided. God did put Mary on a pedestal and has put all human beings on a pedestal. We have scarcely begun to realize the magnificence of divine grace, the wonder of God's freely given love. The marvel of Mary—even in the midst of her very ordinary life—is God's shout to us to wake up to the marvelous creatures that we all are by divine design. The Annunciation of the Lord provides believers hope.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media
Do you struggle with being fully present with people? Areyou constantly thinking about other things and find yourself easily distracted from what's going on around you? Listen in as Tiffany Jo Baker digs into the common challenges of being truly available and connected with author and leadershipstrategist, David Stroud.Listen in for:Why we stay disconnectedWhat you are missing out on from beingunavailableA simple exercise to find out what is reallykeeping you busyThe true impact of an available leaderA parent resource for daily heart connects withkidsFavorite Quotes:“When I was at home I was thinking about objectives at workand when I was at work I was thinking about how I need to be with my family, but what I found was that I was never really anywhere. I was totally disconnected.” – David Stroud“I wasn't available because I didn't care, I was busy… and Iconfused busyness with effectiveness as a leader.” – David Stroud“You can be reading the Bible or praying, but not fullyconnected or available to what God wants to show you or do. You are just checking off your list.” – Tiffany Jo Baker“We have to allow ourselves to be physically and emotionallypresent with people. That's where the healing begins.” – David Stroud“It's not about having more time. It's about giving yourattention to what's in front of you.” – David Stroud“Before my current healing journey, to perform and be incontrol and hustle felt better than to actually be truly vulnerable, present and available.” – Tiffany Jo Baker“There's room for all of us to quiet, to slow down, to takeadvantage of moments letting God heal our heart, showing up for Him so we can show up truly and fully for those He put on our path.” – Tiffany Jo Baker Favorite Verses:“Be still and know that I am God…” – Psalm 46:10a“What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and oneof them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?” – Matthew 18:12El Roi: The God Who Sees Me – Genesis 16 To learn more about David Stroud, his new book (YourGreatest Ability is Your Availability), parent resource and all the things he has going on, visit https://www.dominionleadershipbooks.com, https://bedtimequestions.com/ ,and https://www.instagram.com/leadwithavailability.*Want timely words, resources, and episodes delivered rightto your inbox to help you fuel and fulfill your faith journey? Simply subscribe today to never miss an episode at https://www.tiffanyjobaker.com/subscribe (don'tworry, you won't get spam or excessive emails)*If you're looking for perfectly polished people or podcast,this isn't for you.. We're real people, with real good information, and a really great God. Don't miss the next Tiffany Jo Baker Podcast episode as wecontinue to help you GET FREE, LIVE FULL & THANK GOD! You can watch on YouTube and https://www.tiffanyjobaker.com/tiffany-jo-baker-podcast or listen in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Ratings and reviews are like high-fives and “go-girl's” on podcasts. Helping you refresh and refocus so you can do all the thingsyou are called and created to do, my 31 Day Devotional “Soul-Care for Go-Getters” is available on Amazon and my website shop here. ( https://www.tiffanyjobaker.com/go-getters-devo ) As a 3x Surrogate, Speaker, Soul-Care and Success Coach andHoly Spirit-led Strategist, I uplift the soul and success of women like you who are walking out your WHY, so you can birth your God-given dreams at home, online, and in the real world. Find me, @TiffanyJoBaker, on Instagram, Facebookand https://www.tiffanyjobaker.com. I would love to connect with you there!
Making a habit of giving God control in every situation leads to a life of adventure and dependence on Him and His strength. Here is the divine peace that accompanies total self-surrender to God. Broadcast #7022To help support this podcast, please visit walkwiththeking.org/donate and select "Podcast" from the dropdown menuA transcript of this broadcast is available on our website here. To hear more from Bob Cook, you can find Walk With The King on Facebook or Instagram.
The exposition of Psalm 130