Podcasts about good god

Be blessed as you enjoy this Wednesday Sermon from Brother Darrell Mercer at Faith Fellowship Church in Louisville, Kentucky.There is a Good God and a Bad Devil and they never trade places.

In this week's message, Pastor DEJI reminds us that discovering God's plan isn't about striving or forcing His hand—it's about trusting Him. When we live righteously and sincerely seek to please God, He orders our steps and delights in every detail of our lives (Psalm 37:23–24). Just as He guided Abraham, Joseph, David, and even Adam, God is faithfully working behind the scenes to lead us into His good plan. His plan carries His presence, provision and eternal reward, and only in it will we find true fulfillment.

Geoff and Marie's Good Life: Part 11Going DancingThey meet Mia's mum and rethink their terms and conditions.Based on posts by Only In My Mind, in 15 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels.My name is Geoff. If you are reading my stories in chronological order you will know that my wife and I are both retired and involved, sexually, with several of her friends. One in particular, Angie, is so close to us that we have invited her to be a third person in our relationship and, to that end, we are planning a Star Wars themed ceremony to celebrate our union in front of family and friends.Gone Dancing.This account begins one Thursday, when our grandson had invited a friend's mum to visit us after school. Colin, said grandson, had asked us if he could invite Mia, a school friend, to our wedding as his plus-one. I agreed, on condition that her mum was okay with Mia attending and approved of her choice of outfit. As we were having our costumes designed and made by students at the local university's fashion design faculty, at our expense, I had veto rights and I thought Mia's choice was fine. But still, if Mia's mum thought that her daughter's costume would be inappropriate, they would have to agree on something else. That was why I wanted to meet them both.Mia's mum, well, she had told Colin that she wanted to talk to us because she was a little confused. I assumed that was because Colin had asked her daughter to accompany him to a wedding involving three people, with the participants and guests dressed in Sci-Fi characters' costumes. I respected the lady for wanting to know a little more about us under the circumstances, before she consented.Anyway, that was only one issue I faced that Thursday. The other was that the previous evening Lucy, an unhappily married artist in her early sixties, had offered herself to me as a free-use fuck-toy. Oddly enough, it took the three women to persuade me to accept her offer; I know; You would have snapped her hand off if it had been you; I'm a worrier, so I didn't.The thing is, the girls (their words) suggested that Lucy wanted to help me to explore my inner self. As a retired materials science researcher, that wasn't something that came naturally to me: as an artist, it was what Lucy tried to do whenever she could. Eventually, of course, I caved and the following hour or so found her bound and gagged, tortured with vibrators, nipple clamps, heat, cold and whips before I finally had sex with her, twice. Fortunately, she loved it. Unfortunately Marie, my wife, found my apparent excesses disturbing. That morning, she seemed as though she was still trying to come to terms with why.Marie seemed subdued as we ate breakfast. "Are we okay?" I asked, hesitantly, uncertain as to whether I'd strayed over some obvious boundary the previous evening."WE are fine," she tried to reassure me. "I, on the other hand, am finding that I'm not nearly as sexually secure as I try to try to pretend."I took a leaf out of Ronan Keating's book, or his songbook anyway. Oh, come on; 'You say it best when you say nothing at all'. Surely? Never mind. I sat quietly waiting for my wife to gather her thoughts.Her eyes filled with tears. I stood, took her hand and led her to the living room. I sat her on the sofa and cuddled up next to her. "When you're ready, I'm here for you," I told her. "You don't have to, but I hope you trust me enough to share whatever it is that's troubling you."She gave a brave little smile as she took a tissue from the box on the coffee table. "It's such a long time ago. It felt like it happened to someone else, until Lucy described what you did to her: Then something just felt so wrong. I realized, only this morning, what it was."I didn't feel so flippant now. But she was happy to talk without prompting, so I let her set her own pace.Taking a deep breath, she resumed her explanation. "We were both about ten or eleven. My cousin Paul and me. We were just playing together in the garden one summer and he found some twine. We were comfortable with each other so I let him tie my hands behind my back and he tickled me. It was awful. I cried. Then he touched me, because he could. I couldn't stop him. I was bound and totally helpless. I started to scream and he let me go. I never told anyone and, by the time I met you, he was dead. He had joined the forces; a Para. He died in the Falklands."Marie wiped her eyes. "It was wrong but, if he'd said he was sorry, I'd have forgiven him. We were only kids. But, without realizing it, I've carried that memory, buried, for years." She look apologetically at me. "I'm sorry, Geoff. When Lucy described how helpless she felt, it reminded me of that experience. I don't think I can do it."I shook my head. She didn't understand. "Marie. What I did with Lucy was for her. Yes, I went further than I would usually have been comfortable with, but I made sure that she had opportunities to back out or stop at any time. She didn't." This was important to me. I knelt in front of Marie and looked her in the eye. "If I never do that again, I won't care. If it disturbs you, it will never be repeated. But I will never ask any of you to let me do anything that would hurt you. Lucy wants to do it again. Angie is desperate to try. Sam might enjoy something similar, so might Megan. But you, my love, you don't, so I don't want you to. It's that simple.""You aren't disappointed?" She seemed surprised."Not at all." I thought for a moment. "Well, yes; a little." Marie's eyes started to fill up again so I carried on, hurriedly. "I'm disappointed that you think I'd feel like that. I will never expect you to do anything you don't want to. I will always accept "No" as a complete answer. No need to justify or explain. Are you reassured?""I think so. I think that I feel better for telling you too.""What about the others?" I decided that while we were having this conversation it was the right time to set boundaries.She understood. "I think I was worried that you doing this, with them, would normalize it. That you'd do it to me without thinking, or worse, resent me for rejecting you." She looked at with genuine concern. "You wouldn't; would you?""Never. I know who you are and I think I've come to know what you like. By all means let's test our limits, but never to the point where one of us is unhappy. Are we agreed?"She seemed much happier. "Agreed. And, to be clear, you are free to do anything the other girls ask you to. It was Lucy who bragged about what you did, not you. And she obviously relished every second." Marie pondered for a moment. "Well, afterwards, possibly not during," she grinned.We sat for a little while then went back to the kitchen, where I made us both a fresh cup of tea to replace the drinks that had cooled while we'd talked. We were just finishing the washing up when my phone rang. It was Mike. I'd offered to pay for him to take his wife and sister in law to the pub the previous night to spy on Lucy's fuckwit husband. I'd forgotten that he'd promised an update that morning. I told my wife that I'd explain later and hit the 'Answer call' icon. As Lucy was Marie's friend it seemed only fair she heard our conversation. I switched my phone to speaker."Good morning Mike. Marie is here with me and you are on speaker. Hung over at all?" We heard a snort of laughter."You should know, when you're involved with two women then obviously you get twice as much supervision. So no," he replied.Marie looked enquiringly at me. "Mike, Marie is just finding out that I asked you to do some spying for me. Tell us, was Eddie there?""He was. And the group he was with were an obnoxious crew. Loud, foul mouthed boors the lot of them. Not just the men either."Marie and I shared a look. "So he plays darts with women too?""Darts?" Mike sounded surprised. "Who mentioned darts? They don't even have a dartboard in The Fox and Hounds.""Well," I explained. "Eddie told his wife, a friend of ours, that Wednesday night is now his darts night.""Sorry Geoff," Mike replied. "The only double top your mate was interested in was bulging out of the low cut blouse belonging to the tarty looking slapper he was buying drinks for all night."Whatever vestiges of guilt I'd felt for including Lucy in our 'language classes' evaporated instantly.I needed to be certain. "Are you sure it was Eddie?""I thought you might ask, so I took a photo of my two best girls and made sure that my target was clearly visible behind them. I'm sending it now." A picture of two pleasant looking women in their forties popped on my screen. Marie and I both recognized Lucy's husband in the background. We didn't recognize the plain, big titted woman with her arm around his neck."Asshole!" Marie growled. I was puzzled. Lucy was admittedly at least fifteen years older than the woman with her arm around Eddie but she (Lucy) was slimmer, prettier and, from personal experience, a sexual dynamo. Why the Hell was Eddie rejecting sex with Lucy while he's all over the pooch in the pub?I reminded Mike that he and his ladies were invited to our wedding and suggested that they look on-line for costume ideas. I warned him that some had already been chosen but they had all of the film and TV franchises to choose from, so duplication shouldn't be an issue. He promised to send me images once they'd made their minds up. Becky, his wife, was excited to be invited and wanted to do something similar for their shared lover, Ruth, though Harry Potter was more their style.I reminded him to text his bank details so that I could pay my dues and, after we said our goodbyes, I turned to Marie. "Why?" Was all I said. She understood perfectly."I know Lucy is my friend but; That other woman, she's;” I was impressed. It takes a lot to render my wife speechless.I had to ask. "Has Lucy ever said anything to make you think that there are some er, activities, that are off limits?""For God's sake, Geoff!" She retorted. "Only last night she offered herself to you as a free-use fuck-doll. She's always been sexually adventurous." She looked puzzled. "I can't begin to imagine what that busty blob has that Lucy hasn't."Neither could I, so we shelved that conversation for later and turned our attention to preparing for our guests that evening. After changing the bedding from the previous evening's entertainment, we sat and decided on our menus for the coming week. A quick check to see if any store-cupboard items needed replenishing and we were off to our local supermarket. Marie hit the sea-food counter while I dawdled in the wine aisle. There was an offer on, so I loaded up on some old favorites and added a couple of bottles I'd not tried before. An Alvarinho vinho verde from Portugal caught my eye. It seemed an ideal partner for that evening's seafood dish. Into the trolley it went."What?" I tried to look innocent when Marie caught up with me. "There's twenty percent off. The more I buy, the more we save." She shook her head and guided me gently, but firmly, to the produce aisle. We returned home without further incident.Angie joined us after lunch and we worked happily together prepping for our evening meal. There would be six of us at the table, but we made sure that there would be some leftovers for Linda, our daughter. She was taking the opportunity to use her early finish to get her hair done while Colin ate with us.Short grain rice, seafood, onion, peppers, garlic and peas. Fish stock, tomatoes, chorizo and a pinch of saffron. All laid out ready for Marie to cook. It was her turn, once we'd had a chat with our visitors."Angie?" I asked, to get her attention.She looked up from cleaning a piece of squid. "Yes dear?" We were being unusually domesticated so her mischievous grin was probably warranted.I know you helped me cook breakfast, but you've never invited us to eat at your place. Do you cook or what?"I noticed that my wife was now concentrating very intently on de-veining a prawn, suspiciously so."I can cook," Angie admitted. I could tell that there was a 'but' about to make an appearance. "Quite well, in fact. But." Yes! I knew it was coming. "I get really bitchy if someone is helping in my kitchen and they don't do exactly as I say.""But you're okay doing this?" I persisted."Of course." She seemed to find the question rather ridiculous. "You ask me to rinse this; I'll rinse it. We're fine. But: In my kitchen, if I ask you to brown some onion in a pan, I expect you to use the correct pan, the right amount of the right sort of oil and to produce perfectly sliced onion cooked to precisely the right color exactly when I need it. Otherwise I tend to get a bit cross." She looked a little uncomfortable. "I know. That makes me sound like Gordon Ramsey with tits, but it's how I am."Marie was trying to keep a straight face but eventually surrendered. "I once tried to help her prepare a meal to impress her first husband's boss and his wife. I was slicing some carrots and the julienne were slightly different sizes. She threw them in the bin and we nearly came to blows. In the end I just did the washing up and let her highness rule the kitchen. It wasn't worth the grief." Marie reached across and hugged her friend. "I still love you though. Even after that." They were both laughing as we finished off and tidied up.We sat and watched some more of our Star Wars episodes while we waited for Mia's mum to arrive with the two teens. Exactly on schedule, the front door burst open and Colin bawled, "Hi everybody. We're here!" Marie went to greet our visitors while Angie and I turned off the TV and stood ready to meet Mia and her mum for the first time.Colin booled in first, dragging a tall, pretty teenage girl by the hand. "This is Mia," he informed us. "This is my grandad," he pointed me out to his friend. "And this is Grangie," he said proudly. "They're all really clever, but Grangie is especially smart." He dropped his voice to a hoarse whisper. "She's why your mum wants to meet. I think we're best off keeping out of the way." He dragged her away to the study giving her little chance to say anything but a squeaked, "Hi" before they disappeared.Marie ushered a buxom woman in her late thirties, an amazon, think Brienne of Tarth from Game of Thrones, into the room and they both stood for a moment, presumably wondering where the kids were. Marie collected her wits. "Wendy, this is my husband Geoff." I nodded a welcome. "And this is our special friend Angie." Angie copied my greeting. "Obviously, this is Mia's mum, Wendy."Now the introductions were done, Marie asked if Wendy wanted a drink and we all decided on a cup of tea. Angie was anxious to help, she isn't at her best in situations like this, so it fell to me to entertain our guest. We chatted about the two kids and I took the opportunity to size up our new acquaintance. That was probably a rather Freudian slip. Wendy was a big lady. Not obese, even plump would be a misdescription; it just seemed as though there was a lot of her. She seemed to relax as we spoke. Colin was obviously comfortable in our home, the noises from the kitchen were reassuringly domestic and I made it a point not to stare at her magnificent bosom.She was, in fact, a rather attractive woman. Pleasant, open features, a nice smile, long brown hair past her shoulders and, as I may have implied, spectacularly large tits. I made a mental note to ask Marie what cup size she thought Wendy required: purely for reporting purposes, of course. The other thing of note was that she was at least as tall as me; probably an inch or more taller.Marie bustled in carrying a tray with four cups and Angie followed with a plate bearing biscuits and cakes. Marie excused herself for a moment while she went to remind Colin to make sure his guest was properly catered for. Apparently they assured her that they were fine and would raid the kitchen once homework was done.Marie looked to me. Right; I was elected spokesman. "So Wendy," I began, settling back in my seat to seem less intense. "Colin has invited Mia to be his plus one at our ceremony and you are wondering what's going on. Is that a fair summary?"She took a sip of her tea before she replied. "I'm sure you can see why that is. I don't mean to pry but Mia's welfare has to be my priority."Neither of the girls seemed inclined to contribute yet so I soldiered on. "Angie here has been my wife's closest friend, since before we were married. I've always been fond of her too. But recently," I looked at the girls, they seemed happy with my approach. "Our feelings have intensified and we both regard her as being more than just a friend. We realized that we are both emotionally attached to her, and her to us." I paused to make sure that Wendy was on the same page, or at least not stricken with horror. In the absence of any expression of disgust, I continued. "We want to declare our affection publicly and formalize, as best we can within the law, our new relationship. Marie and I have already had a traditional wedding; so has Angela; twice, in fact. We decided that a themed ceremony might be more entertaining for us and our guests."She seemed interested rather than appalled so I kept going. "Hence Colin's invitation to Mia to accompany him in a costume to fit in with our Star Wars theme." I decided that was a good place to stop for feedback."So this 'ceremony' that Colin has invited my daughter to is to acknowledge you two, a legally married couple, inviting you, Angela, into your relationship?" She paused, gazing thoughtfully at us all. "That's so lovely. I wish more people would open themselves up to their feelings like that." Her smile as she spoke illuminated the room."Does that mean you are okay with Mia attending with Colin?" Marie asked. "They will be the youngest ones there."Wendy was dismissive. "Colin is a lovely polite lad. His mother seems nice and I'm not getting any worrying vibes from any of you. I'm happy and Mia seems keen to be there.""Has she discussed her outfit?" That was me."Her dad was a fan of the films, so I think I've seen them all. Most of the costumes are fairly tame, and the one Mia showed me, the white stretch suit, is no more revealing than the tight joggers and crop tops girls her age wear every weekend to go shopping." She looked a little wistful.I glanced at my wife and got an almost imperceptible nod in reply. "Wendy. If you'd like, we'd be happy to extend the invitation to you too; if you don't think Mia would think you were being a third wheel on their date.""Who would I go as?" She snorted. "Jabba the Hutt? I mean, look at me."We did. She was tall, broad shouldered but proportioned, with an actual waistline. Her long hair and feminine features rather mitigated her size. Did I mention her boobs? She had a lovely complexion too. All in all she was a big sexy woman who didn't see what we did.Angie said what I was just beginning to consider. "Cara Dune," she blurted out. Then, putting her hand to her mouth, she looked to me to rescue her. Wendy seemed nonplussed."We're part way through watching some TV spinoffs," I explained. "Angie and I admit to being Sci-Fi nerds. One of the female characters, Cara Dune, is a powerfully built woman. Let Marie show you the costume she has chosen already while Angie finds some Cara images. Meanwhile, I'll go and check on the kids."I left the three women scrolling through their phones and sought out the two teenagers in the study. I made sure they heard me coming; I wasn't trying to catch them having a quiet cuddle. In reality, they were both reading studiously when I opened the door. I smiled to myself. Colin's book was upside down. I pointed and made circle motion with my finger. He looked puzzled then down at his book and blushed. "Drat! Mia, we've been busted."I shook my head and tapped the side of my nose. "Be sensible and be discreet. That's all we expect. Now do you want anything in the kitchen?"They both declined so I left them to their 'reading'. I left the door open, just to make a point.Back in the living room, the three women were happily comparing notes. Wendy loved the idea of Mia in white and Colin in black. She was amazed at the warrior costume Marie had chosen and how similar in principle it was to Cara Dune's. She was obviously intrigued by our idea."The thing is," Wendy said, hesitantly. "I'm not sure that I can really afford two costumes. Not this intricate, anyway.""Sweetheart, that's not your problem," Angie reassured her. "I'm paying for everyone's costume. We're having them all individually made at my expense. You just have to turn up to get measured."Wendy wasn't convinced. "You don't want

Hi. On today's episode, Katy, Cody, and Jonathan discuss the Supreme Court legalizing racial profiling, ICE raiding a Hyundai plant, and the peace administration making a Department of War, doing war crimes, and declaring war on American cities.As always, we recorded right before that big thing that happened.PATREON: https://patreon.com/somemorenewsMERCH: https://shop.somemorenews.comYOUTUBE MEMBERSHIP: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvlj0IzjSnNoduQF0l3VGng/join#SupremeCourt #DepartmentOfWar #evenmorenewsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Geoff and Marie's Good Life: Part 9Lucy's TurnGeoff finally gets more quality time with Lucy.Based on posts by Only In My Mind, in 15 parts. Listen to the Podcast at Explicit Novels.I was bringing in the bedsheets from the washing line when my lovelies got home. Colin was inside doing his art homework alone as I'm afraid that art isn't my forté. From the way Angie bounced up the path like a tall, supple Tigger, I assumed that their mission had been successful. Marie followed behind at a more stately pace, but I could tell by her expression that she was pleased."Geoff! It's perfect," Angie enthused. "Show him, Marie!"Marie finally caught up with our friend. "She's not wrong, Geoffrey," she admitted. "The moment we saw it, we knew that was the one." She felt into her handbag and took out a small square box."Just like you and me then," I reminded her, kissing the top of her head."You'll get anywhere saying things like that, you smooth devil," my wife smiled as she showed me our purchase."So what happens now?" I asked. It appeared that they were in the dark too. Did we give her it now, like an engagement ring? Or wait until the ceremony, like a wedding ring?I decided. I took Angie's left hand and dropped to one knee. "Angela, you have added a new thread to the tapestry of our lives. Will you agree to be my betrothed?"Marie was quick to respond. She took her friend's hand from me and turned Angie towards her. "Angela, you have been my closest friend for decades, will you now be my betrothed?""Oh! God! Yes! Thank you. I love you both so much," wailed Angie, hopping up and down in floods of happy tears.Marie held out the ring they had chosen and bought together and together my wife and I slipped it onto the fourth finger of Angie's left hand. As I'd suggested, they had chosen something called a Russian Ring, made of three interwoven strands of different shades of gold. It was perfect. I resolved to get my little Mediterranean goddess a matching necklace.There was the sound of applause from behind us and we turned, rather startled, truth to be told, to find Colin beaming at us, the drawing in his hand forgotten."I think you're supposed to kiss her now, Grandma, Grandad," he observed. We couldn't fault his grasp of etiquette so we did; very chastely and properly with no tongues."Mum's gonna go proper monkey poo this time," he predicted, quite astutely. "Glad I'm not the one that has to tell her." He smiled, congratulated us all and then asked for our opinions of his drawing. We were all impressed, both by his artwork and his attitude and told him so. He disappeared happily back inside to put his drawing safely in his bag."He's not wrong about Linda," I pointed out. "I was thinking about this while I was running and I think I should take her out for tea tomorrow and tell her about our, er; does 'new situation' sound about right?""Thank God!" Marie breathed a sigh of relief. "I don't think she'd accept this updated version of 'the talk' from me. Anyway, I did the one about boys, boobs and periods, now it's your turn."I went and switched the oven on and chose a bottle of wine as I waited for it to reach 180°C. I'd picked up a bottle of Ribeiro in our local supermarket and a Spanish white seemed to fit nicely with the ingredients so I parked it in the fridge to chill.I got the tray with the onions, tomatoes, garlic cloves and potatoes and glugged over a little olive oil before putting it all in the oven for twenty minutes and then went off to see my girls. Angie had calmed down and they were trying to decide her outfit for our ceremony."What about Padme's rainbow dress?" I suggested. I'd had nothing urgent after lunch and had done some research. Angie gave me a long appraising look and typed 'padme rainbow' into the search engine on her phone. She selected 'images' and then studied the screen intently for longer than I expected. Still silent, she showed Marie the dress. "He's a clever old sod, really, isn't he?" My beloved observed. "That's beautiful, and it's perfect for your body shape."Angie agreed. "That's it. I was considering Rey's outfit but this is better. This is the one I want.""You can actually buy these on-line," I offered."Not a chance!" Retorted Angie. Marie looked as puzzled as me at how emphatic Angie's response was. "I'm sure that some are okay," Angie conceded. "But I've seen too many instances on Facebook where the seller shows an image of the original but what actually arrives looks like it was sewn in the dark from old curtains by an arthritic chimp. I want it to look just like that picture.""But at least you'll know how much it is going to cost, dear," Marie said. "Who knows how much your student friends will have to pay to find a fabric like that?""Don't care," Said a defiant Angie. "I can afford whatever I want and it's my money after all."Marie leaned in for a kiss. "We'll contribute too. We always intended to.""No. Thank you, but no." Angie was adamant. "You bought me that beautiful ring. I realize that it would be rude to offer to pay for that, but everything else; everything," she stressed that last word, "is on me."My wife and I shared another look of surprise at our friend's determined outburst. "But Ange," Marie began."Everything, Marie. You've been so kind to me for so long. And these last few weeks;” She teared up again. "You really don't know, do you?"I shrugged. We were into Donald Rumsfeld territory here with 'unknown unknowns' and I didn't think that this was the moment to dive down that particular rabbit hole."You know that apartment I live in?" Angie asked. We did. It was in a massive, tastefully converted, Victorian building near the university. "Don't you think it's rather large and expensive for just one person?" We both just did some head wobbles, shoulder shakes and comme ci, comme ça, hand gestures to indicate that we had wondered but."It's not that expensive," she continued, eyes sparkling with mischief. "Not for me, anyway. You see." She paused for effect. "I own the entire building. A lettings management company deals with renting the other apartments; I just live off the income. I only do the consultancy work for you know who," she tapped the side of her nose. "to stop me getting bored and my brain shutting down." She was winding me up because she knew I suspected that she was some kind of spook."Don't worry about the cost," she said cheerfully. "I can afford it. Last time I checked I had over two million pounds just in my savings accounts."She looked gleefully at the expressions on our faces. "And, once we're officially joined, I'm changing my will to leave it all to you and your kids. Colin certainly won't need a student loan when he goes to Uni.""Angie, darling. There's no need," Marie protested."Who else then?" Angie challenged her. "You two are the closest I've had to a family since I ditched that last useless waste of DNA. I've had more fun, romance, sex and affection from you two lunatics in the last six weeks than from both my husbands combined over two decades."Marie looked helplessly at me. I knew exactly what to do. I leaned forward. "Angie?" I said softly, taking her hand in mine."Yes, Geoff?" She replied, returning my loving gaze."Please can I have an Aston Martin DB12?"We collapsed in each other's arms in fits of giggles. Marie swiped me fondly across the head. "You nutcase. Get back in the kitchen and get our tea ready."I checked, and the potatoes were starting to cook, so I laid the chicken and chorizo slices on top, added the herbs and spices and put the tray back in the oven. "Alexa, set a timer for twenty minutes." Then I went off in search of Colin.I told him that I needed a private chat with his mum. "You think?" Was his smart-ass response. Sometimes he makes me so proud.Anyway, he texted one of his friends and persuaded her to wangle an invite to go over straight from school the following evening to do their homework together. Linda would collect him around seven."So Colin. Mia. Is she nice?""Yes Grandad. She's nice. No Grandad, she's not my girlfriend. We're only thirteen but we get on just fine as friends." Hell. The kid's more mature than half of the lads I used to play rugby with.We chatted some more until Alexa's alarm went off and I hit the kitchen again. Dropped the sliced peppers into the tray, a good mix up and back in for the last twenty minutes.I was starting to set the table when Marie and Angie came in to take over and chased me away to watch the news on TV. Angie had already taken her ring off and had decided to keep it in its box until they were with their friends. Then Marie intended to propose again in front of them all. It sounded lovely and I would have liked to see it, but I'd agreed that this was their moment.Linda arrived on time and about ten minutes later we sat down to eat. She'd called to collect a baguette on the way home as I'd asked and we used it to mop up the juices from our plates. The wine paired well; even Colin agreed, though he only got a sip of his mum's. Perhaps, when he's sixteen, Linda will let him have a glass with his meals.After we'd finished, the ladies declared that they would clear the table as I'd done all of the cooking. It had hardly been a chore but I wasn't about to argue. Instead, I went and asked Colin if he was okay with Aunty Angie being, well, betrothed to Grandma and Grandad.He thought carefully for a while. "Is anyone going to get hurt?"It was a reasonable question. "I hope not. But it's always possible. Even two people who love each other can eventually drift apart.""But you're all happy now?" He persisted. "You all want this?""Yes. All of us." I confirmed."What will I call her then?" He asked.That hadn't occurred to me. "Whatever you and Angie decide. That seems the fairest to me."His face lit up. "When you've told mum, I'm going to ask Aunty Angie if I can call her; Grangie." He announced triumphantly. There were still tears of laughter streaming down my face when the women joined us five minutes later. They all looked suspiciously at the pair of us."You had to be there," I told them, then we cracked up again.Before Linda and Colin left I told her that, as Colin had a homework date the following day, earning a glare from him, I'd treat her to a meal after work as we'd both be on our own. I suggested a Thai in town and we agreed to meet there at five fifteen. She looked warily at me, but I'd been practicing my innocent expression and gave nothing away. Certainly, nothing had been said that evening to suggest there was a problem.Angie saw them off with us and then said her own goodbyes. I copped a feel of her bum as we kissed, well, we're engaged now, or something. Marie must have shared my sentiment only she went for a tit. I slapped her hand gently. "Enough of that. She'll never get away if you start on her nipples." They both reluctantly agreed and then there was just the two of us again."Are we being silly, Geoff? Starting a new way of living? At our age? Is this just desperation?" It wasn't like Marie to second guess herself.I hugged her to me. "I don't think so. We have time, money and our health. The kids are okay so this is our opportunity to be us. Not teacher, boss, researcher, mum or dad; just us. If this is what makes both of us happy, why fight it? You promised, if we reach a place where you're uncomfortable, then you'll tell me. I promise you the same. So let's go and see what's out there.""Tell you what," she replied pulling me closer. "Get the rest of that wine and I'll sit on your lap and we'll finish it while we cuddle then, maybe, an early night?"I was up early next morning. We did make love the night before and it was slow, sensual and fulfilling. We'd both slept like babies.When I'd finished in the bathroom, Marie was looking at her phone. "That was a text from Peter. He and Jen are coming back from Canada on Monday and thought they might stop in to see us on the way back home." She looked worried. "Do we tell them? Or just Pete? But then how do we tell Pete without Jen hearing? Do we insist he keeps it a secret from her? ""We need to make a choice," I told her. "We're telling Linda because she deserves to know the unconventional relationship that Colin will see when Angie is here. Pete isn't in that position but, I think that if Linda knows then her brother should too. And I also think that, if Pete knows, it would be unfair to expect him to keep it from Jen. I'm not sure about discussing the rest of the girls with him; I'm tempted to tell Linda because she'll get suspicious if we're never free to look after Colin on Wednesdays if she wants to go out with Mike or if she has to work late."That's fair. I'll tell Pete that they are welcome to stay and we're looking forward to seeing them. But, Geoff?""Yes?""For pity's sake, will you move the toy box out of the playroom and make sure there's no lube or condoms left in the drawers?""I'll do it now."The rest of the day was quite mundane. Breakfast, grocery shopping, coffee at home and then a walk to the park. "I think I'm happy, Geoff," my wife announced as we strolled. "Not just content; actually happy. My friends have you in their lives, I'm even closer to them than ever and Angie," Marie's voice choked. "I've never seen her so alive. Thank you."I wasn't even tempted to be flippant. "Thank you too. It's strange, but making love to your friends seems to have brought me closer to you. I'm just so relieved you aren't jealous. You aren't are you?"She considered. "No. Truthfully; not at all. What about you?""No. Me neither. In fact, I know you have a bit of a thing for Sue, and it's, I dunno, sweet."She punched me playfully. "I still like Sam though," she admitted."So, now you have both, and me and Angie too."She gave a big happy sigh and we turned and made our way home.The weather was still fine so Marie set off at ten to four to walk to the Black Swan to meet her friends. I red for half an hour and then caught the bus into town. Linda could drop me back off at home on the way to collect Colin from Mia's house.I'd reserved a table and waited at the bar for Linda. She rushed in, all flustered, only two minutes late. "It's okay," I told her. "We're not running to a timetable here."Sorry, Dad," she apologized. "Isn't there always some clown who decides that half past four on a Friday afternoon is the perfect time to start making urgent phone calls?""Is it settled?" I asked her. "Or do you need ten minutes to make some more calls of your own?""God, no!" She laughed. "I'll start working for free after finishing time when my boss stops checking her watch when folk arrive in the morning with just minutes to spare."The waiter saw that my guest had arrived and invited us to follow him to our table. The place was quiet that early so he gave us a place with a nice view over the river."Is your job getting you down?" I asked. She worked in the distribution office for a large retailer."No, the work is fine, the people are great, it's just that our boss is so insecure in her abilities that she sticks rigidly to corporate policy, and it sometimes gets in the way of actual work.""Go on," I invited her. We didn't get to chat like this as much as I'd like."Okay. So: There are six people in our office; two men, four women. We lost both of the guys for a full day on Tuesday to go on a gender harassment awareness course. One's gay and the other is a fifty year old sweetheart. They could have done effectively the same course on-line in an hour but no, she had to make sure that her boss saw our guys in person to make her look good." She gave an exaggerated sigh. "Those lads get more grief from us girls than they'd ever; Oh! It's so frustrating.""I know," I sympathized. "I regarded part of my role as lab manager as insulating the people who actually generated income from stupid policies like that. I'd do what the law required but, if an adult technician doesn't know that it's not okay to touch a colleagues bum, no matter how cute or pert it is, a course isn't enough; a dismissal is much more effective. It solves the immediate issue and also serves 'pour encourager les autres' as your Great Gran would have said. An object lesson to the others," I said in reply to her unspoken question.We chatted in the same vein as we looked through the menu and had just finished our deliberations when our waiter appeared.We ordered spring rolls and prawn toast, I ordered a pork massaman, Linda chose a chicken panang and we decided to share a green papaya salad.

Preaching: Transitional Pastor, Jack Hawkins Sermon title - Good Church, Good God Sermon text - Genesis 3:1-7 Three Questions: 1. Do you think that the general population believes that our God is good? 2. Have you ever had an experience in your life that brought that thought into your mind? 3. Do you ever find you want to be the one that decides what is good and what is evil rather than relying on God to make those decisions?

Today's podcast opens us up to the nature of the Devil. Allhis plans towards us are onto death alone, but when we choose and trust God, we are rest assured of life and His glory.Be encouraged to hold fast to your Integrity as aChristian, and as always, be transformed as you listen! Scriptures Used: Bible Verses: John 10:10 | Acts 12:4 | Acts10:38 | Acts 3:6 | Acts 14:7-10 | Job 2:9 | Romans 4:17 | Exodus 1:12 | Genesis 39: 16-20 | Genesis 40:2-5. _________Subscribe and share this podcast with your family and friends.Have questions? Send us an email via info@icgcholyghosttemple.org and we will be glad to assist you.

This sermon was preached by Tim Lambros on July 27th, 2025.

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We will continue to tell the world how Good God is and how much He loves them!faithbucks.com

Pastor Luke wraps up our 'You Asked' series by addressing God and the problem of evil.

Ralph, Monty and Desi get together to talk about the shambles that are Celtic at the moment.They ask "Just what the fuck is going on?" and try and find a few answers!They wonder "Are the fans the wean caught between 2 parents heading for a divorce?"Theres Fitbaw talk, Rants, Complaints and even some helpful suggestions through a packed 90 minutes!Maybe not one for  the Optimist CSC members mind!

Ralph, Monty and Desi get together to talk about the shambles that are Celtic at the moment.They ask "Just what the fuck is going on?" and try and find a few answers!They wonder "Are the fans the wean caught between 2 parents heading for a divorce?"Theres Fitbaw talk, Rants, Complaints and even some helpful suggestions through a packed 90 minutes!Maybe not one for  the Optimist CSC members mind!

In this episode of Chai Beauty, I reflect on Session Two of the When You Pray Bible study, where we dive into the Lord's Prayer and what it means for God to truly be the Alpha and Omega. I share how this study challenged me to see God's goodness in every season, examine my faith in His promises, and ask deeper questions about obedience, provision, and trust.We'll explore:Four ways Scripture describes who God isWhat Psalm 119:33–40 teaches about obedience and joyWhy fearing God matters in our daily livesThe role of the Holy Spirit as our guideHow to live a quiet life, mind your business, and work with your handsSeeing God's goodness even when life feels off track

We all have questions we're afraid to ask, but the church should be a place for our questions and the answer. For example, how can a good God allow suffering? God allows suffering because he loves us; God defeats evil because he loves us. For resources and media, visit https://vintagechurchnola.com/series/questions-you-have-(but-are-afraid-to-ask/#Welcome2Vintage #Questions #Answers #ToughTopics #ProblemofEvil #Suffering 

Our vision of God radically impacts every part of us; a distorted view of God leads to a distorted life. If we are to be all God wants us to be, we need to see Him for who He really is: our great and good God, who knows, sees, and loves us perfectly.

Thanks to Our Good God (Part 2) – Psalm 118:19–29 | Walking Through the PsalmsIn Part 2 of Psalm 118 (vv. 19–29), we move from personal testimony to a public procession of praise.We enter the gates of worship, behold the rejected stone now exalted, and rejoice in the name of the Lord.This episode highlights Christ as the Cornerstone, the Lord's marvelous saving work, and our enduring callto give thanks for His steadfast love.For more resources on God's Word, visit Psalms Archives - Servants of Grace and our YouTube.

Are you struggling to reconcile a good God with a hard life? Hosts Dave and Ann Wilson sit down with Mark Vroegop, author of "Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy" to explore the vital biblical practice of lament. Mark reveals how lament, though prevalent in Scripture (making up one-third of the Psalms!), is often missing from modern Christian life. Drawing from his own profound experiences with loss, he explains how lament provides a faith-filled language for expressing grief, pain, and doubt directly to God, preventing despair and even the deconstruction of faith. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/84/29

Garth Heckman The David Alliance TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com    You know those certain type of guys… they always have a motive… They hold a door for a girl, they ask the woman if she needs help, they pick there young girl for their group exercise. Or the guy who is always trying to make a buck.. no matter on who or how or whom it will hurt… In a way we as followers of Christ are to be the exact same way…      Mark 10:17 Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” Ok first off this is a very very important question… maybe the biggest question you could ask with the greatest of consequences if you get it wrong… But Jesus almost ignores it and says…  18 So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. 19 You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery,' ‘Do not murder,' ‘Do not steal,' ‘Do not bear false witness,' ‘Do not defraud,' ‘Honor your father and your mother.' ” 20 And he answered and said to Him, “Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.” *Jesus never calls him out. I believe this guy really kept all the commandments. He was the super uber good guy. Everyone would look at him and say “I wish I could be like him”. Mothers were always saying to their sons “I wish you were more like that young man… he keeps all the commandments”… But did you miss what is going on here?  VERSE 18 So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. DID YOU CATCH IT… Jesus is stating in a backward way that he is God… Hey skippy, why do you call me good? Because only God is good… thus do you really think I am good? Do you really think I am God? If so, lets see if you do and test that theory. If I am good aka God, then here is what you do   21 Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” 22 But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. Look there are some blatant bold and obvious things God is doing here. He is saying its not enough to follow the law. It is not enough to be good, I have to be God. I have to be God in your life which means I sit on the throne of your life and not your reputation, not your money, not your goals or your family or your job or your relationships or your whatever it is… If I am really God, then I come first in all things… it is not enough to just follow the rules.  How many of us fall into that trap - we treat God as good, but not as God. 

What does it mean to be Good with God? Life can bring some challenging moments, but how you think about yourself and the world around you will shape your experience. Genesis 1-2 explains that humanity is called to partner with a good god, bearing His image, so that all creation may flourish. How does living with a good God change your worldview? And what happens when we go looking for Good without God?MESSAGE NOTES: https://www.bible.com/events/49475304GROUP STUDY LINK HERE: https://www.canyonridge.org/studies-category/good-with-godRESOURCES: https://www.canyonridge.orgBLOG: https://canyonridge.org/blogs/

Walking Through the PsalmsThanks to Our Good God: Part 1Text: Psalm 118:1–18Host: Dave JenkinsDate: August 8, 2025 Episode SummaryPsalm 118 begins and ends with the same powerful refrain: "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His steadfast love endures forever!" In this first part, Dave Jenkins walks through verses 1–18, calling us to remember God's goodness and take refuge in Him alone. From distress and discipline to strength and salvation, this psalm teaches us how to praise the Lord through both trial and triumph. Listen and Watch Audio Player: Video Player: ScripturePsalm 118:1–18 (ESV) Key ThemesGod's enduring love (hesed)Deliverance and trust through afflictionConfidence in the Lord over human powerJesus as the fulfillment of this psalmVisit The Psalms page here at Servants of Grace for more studies on the book of Psalms or at our YouTube.

The following sermon was chosen as a 'staff-pick' on SermonAudio: Title: Ultimate Good Through Drawing Near to Our Good God Subtitle: 2025 - BJU Bible Conference Speaker: Dr. Mark Minnick Broadcaster: Bob Jones University Event: Special Meeting Date: 2/20/2025 Bible: Psalm 73:28 Length: 40 min.

The condition of our hearts determines the fruit we bear. Rocky or shallow ground may produce little growth, but God desires to cultivate deep roots in us through His Word and Spirit. In this message by Eli Klimchuk he reveals what God loves, what He hates, and how we can prepare our hearts as fertile soil for His purposes. Matthew 13:3-8, 18-23, Philippians 2:6-11, Proverbs 6:16-19, John 3:16, Romans 5:8, Psalm 103:11, Psalm 37:28, 2 Peter 3:9, 1 Peter 5:8, John 10:10, Luke 6:27-31, Galatians 5:22-23, Galatians 6:9, Philippians 1:6  Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, & SUBSCRIBE for more biblical teachings!   Please follow our websites for more! = Website: http://www.newlifechurchsf.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewLifeSF/ Youtube: https://youtu.be/7Ig-qXgVAmE/ Pastor Alex Klimchuk New Life Church 500 S 1st Ave Sioux Falls, SD 57104

Quote of The Day: "You cannot have a positive life and a negative mind." - Joyce Meyer Hosts: Goodness Ezeh

Welcome back to another episode of Man VS Marriage! Is there a path for redemption in this life when you hit rock bottom?This week we have Dr. Jonathan Welton back on the program talking redemption. As a public Figure he was a Leader, Pastor, Theologian, Author, Speaker, and head of a bible academy among other things. Dr. Welton crashed his entire ministry and potentially more importantly his Marriage and fatherhood in 2018. This plummet upended the entire ethos he, his family, and his team had been building and it was in many cases quite traumatic for all parties involved including himself. Where do you find yourself? Maybe you live out of the public spotlight however what is written above is something you can relate to...WHAT IF there is a road to redemption?WHAT IF.. you can take responsibility for what has happened and by the GRACE of a Good God you can make your way back? YOU CAN! It may not look the same as Dr. Welton's, it might not even look similar to what you envision when you muster the courage to make a comeback. We however have the tangible example that it is POSSIBLE and yes it is possible for you.Dr. Welton endeavored to walk the path of redemption in order that he would right the wrongs to the best of his ability and so he might be the example that by and through God's grace it is possible. SO maybe you are asking, What did this guy do? How did he do all of this? Let's get on into it! There's nothing to it but to do it! For more on Dr. Welton, his contact, his books and more checkout:jonwelton.com Yo Bro! or Sis :) Help us BUILD the brand and change lives where you are!VIST www.quincymoran.com/apparel right now! buy our clothing and represent in you local area. Let's change lives together!want to contact me?email: quincy@mvsmpodcast.com to get in touch! Check out our youtube! We are NEW on youtube and excited to grow the platform within the YT community!https://www.youtube.com/@manvsmarriagepodcast3348/videos#COMMUNICATION #pornaddiction #sex #marriedsex #marriage #mariagehelp #marriageandrelationships #relationship101 #marriagepodcast #marriagehelp #marriagebootcamp #love #lovestory #couples #faith #Relationship #relationships #Problem #Problems #CognitivePower #Opinion #Opinions #Trust #Marriage #Married #Truth #TruthTeller #Standard #Standards #Negotiate #Negotiating #Romance #romantic #reconciliation #selfimprovement #help #christian #redemption #narcissist #narcissism

Barkley College Remedial Human Sexuality Course: Part 7The Dating Game Ensues.By zachattack163 and adapted for this platform. Listen to the Podcast At Explicit Novels.In Rebecca's 7th floor Condo, The Remedial Sex Ed class was enjoying a swim party and game night. The 12 college students were all sexually sated from the orgasmic contests, and simply basking in the comfort of a supportive set of friends. While Bethany and Rebecca just completed a housing agreement at the sofas' where an ‘Apples To Apples' game was going on;Devon and five others were playing a Game of Catan, at the Dining Room table. While Jackson and Alexis were negotiating a trade of Rock, for Wood; Devon bravely struck up a conversation with Erika; “So, Erika, I have two; no, three questions I'd love to find out from you. Tell me your worst date, your best date, and your ideal date.Meanwhile in the living room the apples to apples card asked the players to choose a response to the term worst day ever. Thomas chuckled as he submitted his card. When the rest of the submissions were in, Elizabeth shows Thomas's card. It said blind date.Well, that started off quite a group discussion of some of the worst experiences in dating. Soon, the Catan players came in to join the conversation. Erica said; “oh my God! We were just talking about horrible dates.” Then Erica added, “Devin wanted to know what was my worst aid and what was my best. I was just getting to the second part. Then he wanted to know what is my ideal date.” Spontaneously the conversation became a support group for dating help.It was the ideal date discussion that became the next chapter for the remedial sex ed students. Bethany suggested that each of the guys list a social activity and each of the girls lists a romantic finale; a destination. Bethany just wanted a sentence or two. She had Bruce pick up the guy's cards and she picked up the girls cards. Then she shuffled each stack and placed them on the coffee table next to each other. Taking the top card off each stack, she announced who was going on a blind date with whom.Bethany and Bruce agreed to assist the guys and gals, in coordinating their itinerary and destinations, but did not disclose the activities and venues. That was up to each couple to work out.Rebecca was paired with Thomas.Bethany was paired with Bruce.Erica was paired with Devin.Michelle was paired with Jackson.Alexis was paired with Malcolm.Elizabeth was paired with William.The timing perimeters were to be completed by Sunday, July 18th. On that afternoon and evening, there would be another pool party and pizza, at Rebecca and Bethany's place.Shortly after, the crowd started to disperse. Bethany stayed late to help Rebecca put things away and arrange for her move in. Since the other room mates' bedroom was going to be empty for eight more weeks, they decided Bethany should just put her extra belongings in storage and use one of the existing beds so she would have her own bedroom. The two of them decided to discuss Rebecca's upcoming date with Thomas. Rebecca said she really loves her condo and would just as soon invite Thomas back here for the night.Bethany agreed and said; “it's hard to find a luxury hotel suite to rival this place.” Bethany also asked if Rebecca would be opposed to Bethany having Bruce over, as well?“That sounds great! Rebecca assured her. As long as you and Bruce aren't offended by whatever sounds might carry over from my bedroom,” Rebecca added with a wink.“I'm hardly the person to complain about loud sex. You heard the noises I make.” Bethany admitted.“I wonder what Thomas has in mind for a social activity?” Rebecca wandered out loud.Bethany confirmed that she had some clue but was going to leave it to Thomas to reveal.Oak Park Country ClubJust then Rebecca's cell phone rang. It was Thomas.“Hello lovely! I'm looking forward to our special date and I wanted to discuss my thoughts for the day. My dad is the golf pro at Oak Park country club. I'd love to arrange a golf outing, followed by dinner at the country club dining hall. They usually have live music and ballroom dancing.”“Oh goodness! I'm in.” Rebecca assured him “I'll just need to bring along a change of clothes. Will we have access to the lockers and showers?”“Of course. My dad will handle all of the accommodations. I must inform you though, I was pretty much raised at that country club, and I think a lot of the older folks will take interest in who I'm finally dating. I've only been to a few of these swanky events. The last one was the debutant ball, last year.”Rebecca said; “Oh I'm so excited. I had my debutant ball when I turn 16. My dad was my date, that night.”“Since you're on the phone, Thomas can I discuss our final destination?”“Sure, what do you have in mind?” He asked.“I've stayed in a lot of places and I really just want to invite you back here for the evening. Will that disappoint you?”“Hmm, a night in the penthouse of Park Plaza? Sounds like roughing it. Just kidding. I am deeply honored and I want this to be an absolutely amazing date for you, my lovely.”Bethany was cleaning up the kitchen but overheard some of Rebecca's words. She scribbled a note and handed it to Rebecca. It said shall I plan to stay somewhere else that night?Rebecca glanced at the note and said, “Oh Thomas; one more thing. Would it make you feel uncomfortable if Bruce and Bethany were to make the other bedroom their destination that night? They said they'll ignore all the screams of ecstasy they might overhear.”“Good God! We all had sex on the floor of a college lecture bowl just last week. If we could ignore other couples getting it on then; I'm sure we can tolerate it again. Plus I think it might be fun conversation the next morning over a cup of coffee.”“Well now, a gentleman doesn't kiss and tell, but I suppose others can't help overhearing things. That doesn't mean we should confirm their suspicions.”The Hoe-Down.The next morning Bruce called Bethany to discuss his idea for a great date. “On Saturday July 13th,” Bruce explained. “We would travel out to my family's ranch in the next county. We would enjoy trail riding on our family's horses. Then, that evening the Stone Creek township is having a festival at the neighbors ranch it'll be a potluck dinner and barn dance.”“Barn dance? As in, square dancing? Or Western line dancing?” Bethany asked.“I don't think anybody square dances anymore,” Bruce assured her. “But yeah, line dancing is still a thing in our county.”“Well Bruce, that sounds like a very fun way to spend the day getting to know you better. Are you okay with coming back to the Park plaza condominiums? You know I'm temporarily moving in with Rebecca while maintenance is being done in the athletic dorms? I'll be in her spare bedroom until school starts in September. You just have to be okay with the noisy couple in the other bedroom?”“Haha! Maybe we can make it a contest? Who can be noisier!““Oh please!” Bethany responded. “I resemble that!”Casa Madera.That afternoon, Alexis sent a text to Bethany.“Hey girl! I just talked to my aunt and uncle and said I'd love to take a friend out to the cabin in a couple weeks. They said sure!”Then Alexis asked; “Do you think Malcolm will be okay with staying in a remote cabin? It has electricity and plumbing, and all. I just hope it doesn't disappoint him? It's really a spectacular place. They named it Casa Madera, which just means timber house, or log cabin.”“Oh my God! That sounds like a fantastic destination. Has he told you what he's planning that day?” Bethany wanted to know what she knew.“Um, yeah. He wants to take me to the performing arts center for a Celtic dance show. That's all I know, and it seems odd to go from a performing arts center to a rustic cabin in the woods.”“Don't worry about it!” Bethany said. “As long as the cabin is presentable, all Bruce is going to be interested in that night is the woman he's with.”Alexis chuckled nervously. “My aunt and uncle didn't ask who I'm inviting. I think they assume it's you, or one of my other girlfriends. You might need to play along if I get in a jam. This aunt and uncle are not prudes like most of my family. But I don't think they want the blowback for contributing to the delinquency of a fair young maiden.”“Count me in and I'll do my best to not blow your cover.” Bethany assured her.Model Worthy.Meanwhile Bruce was on the phone with Jackson; who was nervous about dating a world-class model like Michelle.Bruce encouraged him; “She wants to be a normal girl next door, Jackson. Be gentle, sensitive, and genuine. You might also need to remember flexibility, because things don't always go exactly as planned.”“Well, I want to take her to the new restaurant near the mall, called Candelier. Then I want to take her to a pop concert out at the casino ballroom.”“Excellent!” Bruce assured him. “I think she'll really enjoy that. I'm not sure how much exposure to large crowds she wants to risk. She values her anonymity. I know that runs contrary to what I would want, if I were in your place. Hell, I'd be strutting her with pride and want the whole world to take note.”“Yeah, good point.” Jackson agreed. I'll need to read her expressions and just adapt to the circumstances.”Lake Wilburn.Later that night, Devin called Bruce and discussed his ideal date package. His grandparents own a lake resort and he wants to spend a Saturday there, with Erica. They would have full use of all the boats; including ski boats, canoes, kayaks, and sailboats.“Shit! You just want that box and babe in a bikini for the day!” Bruce chided him.“And what's your point!” Devin retorted.They laughed at the obvious and Bruce confirmed that it sounds like a blast.“Hey Devin, Bethany's calling can I call you back when I'm done with her?”“Sure!” And Devin hung up.“Hey Bethany? ““Hello Bruce. I just got off the phone with Erica and she's a bit nervous about her date with Devin.”“Oh? Funny I just hung up with Devin to take your call. He's nervous too, by the way.”“Well, Erica kind of feels weird about it, but she wants to go camping. She thinks that's a pretty weird way to end a date. But she still thinks she should. What do you think?”“Oh my god! It's perfect. Just between you and me, Devin's grandparents own a Lake resort. Devin wants to spend a day at the lake, boating fishing and swimming. He's nervous that Erica might not be the outdoorsy type?”“Oh this is too funny” Bethany chuckled.“Now, does Erica want to camp in a campground? Because that resort might be a good fit for her plans, as well?”“No, she wants to do wilderness camping with backpacks. In the state forest near lake Wilburn.”“Oh my God! Please tell Erica that she is spot on! Camping is perfect and Lake Wilburn is even more perfect. I can't say more than that.”“Okay, I'll call her back. Thanks for your help.”“Okay babe, looking forward to our date, as well. And I'll connect with Devin and assure him.Bruce sent Devin a text; “Your planning is very compatible with what Erica is thinking. But I won't say more than that.”When Devin got the text, his curiosity really went into overdrive. Bruce assured him; “Don't overthink it bro. Just go with it. Your gut instincts are spot on.”Bruce and Bethany were mostly able to keep secrets. The only challenge was Elizabeth and William's coordination.Blueberry TouringWilliam was planning to take Elizabeth back to his hometown for the Brighton annual Blueberry festival. It involved a parade, carnival, street dance, and other events.Elizabeth's parents agreed to let her use an RV from their recreational vehicle dealership. She thought it was absolutely too corny for a first date destination but somehow she wanted to run it by Bethany.Bethany and Bruce had to divulge a little bit of William's plans. Then Bethany and Elizabeth selected Aspen Park RV campground near the Blueberry festival.They drove out to Aspen Park RV resort and talked to the owners. The bad news was that the RV Park was completely booked for a private event that particular weekend.When Elizabeth mentioned who her family was, the Aspen Park owners offered to call the organization which had reserved the entire RV park. They persuaded the organization to make an exception, provided that her RV would be using the most remote lot available. The group was more concerned that they might offend Elizabeth.“Your family has been very good to our RV park. You've greatly increased our occupancy rate because of the great reviews that you've given us. We wish we could do more to reciprocate with your family. But we will need you to sign a confidentiality agreement with this organization. That's all we're going to say.”“You mean, something like, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas?” Bethany speculated.“Yes! Something very much like that.”“Sure. But I'm going to need to know who the other party to this agreement is. Do we at least have a name of an organization?” Elizabeth pleaded.“Yes, the Sun valley nature society. That's all we will say.”Driving back to the college, Elizabeth said she was concerned that it was such a long drive to this resort.That's when Bethany divulged that William's plans were going to be out in this area, anyway.Awaiting the special day.Bruce and Bethany sent a group text message out to everyone confirming that they have been consulted and advised all of the couples, regarding venues in itineraries. They urged the couples to contact each other about clothing and other accommodations suitable for their activities. With that, the couples were just counting the days. All of the dates were able to begin on Saturday July 13th.Lake Wilburn.Devin loaded up his Jeep Cherokee and headed to Erica's place where she was waiting with a large duffel bag, cooler, and backpack. Once loaded, they headed out of town. There are activities started with fishing. After cleaning the fish they broke for lunch. Devin's grandparents insisted they come dying with them. After lunch they went sailing, followed by water skiing. Erica was an absolute blast and her string bikini was especially entertaining for Devin.After water skiing, Erica wanted to relax on the boat and lotion up for tanning. Devon took Erica into a secluded cove and turned off the boat motor. She offered to share lotion, and Devon took that queue to strip naked. Erica loved the suggestion. They spent a long time spreading the whole bottle of lotion all over each other, and building expectations for later that evening. Finally they laid out for about 40 minutes, getting a full tan. Then they swam naked in the cove for a while, before returning the boat to the resort. About 6:00 that night, they loaded up and Erica drove the two out to the state

Do you ever think of the Bible as a dusty book from long ago? One that's filled with stories that are just ancient history and have nothing to do with you or your life? Discover how the Bible still speaks today through the incredible figures from long ago, Elijah and Elisha. It's not just ancient history!Thanks for listening to the Christ Church Mequon Podcast. Find your next step and let us know how we can be praying for you at ChristChurchMequon.LIFE/Podcast. Hit that subscribe button and, until next week, God bless.

Igniting Contagious Faith!Sermon Notes: https://links.kchanford.com/sunday

Pastor Perry continues the GOD series with a sermon titled "Good God!"Psalms 100:5Support the show

Frederick Christian Fellowship Church is a non-denominational church where all people, regardless of where they are on their spiritual journey, are welcome to learn about God and how to have a relationship with him. As a Christ-centered, Bible-believing church, we exist to help people reach their full redemptive potential in Christ. ___ Subscribe to our channel for fresh daily content to keep you connected and inspired all week long. ____ Tap here to give: https://pushpay.com/g/fcfchurch?nt=YouTube&lang=en&src=pcgl ____ FCF Church Service Times: • Online: Sunday's at 9:15 AM and 11:15 AM ____ FOLLOW US Website: http://fcfchurch.com FCF Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fcfchurchfrederick FCF Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fcfchurch/

What do you need today? Well, this episode is going to help you figure it out. Krissy Bakke, the hippie Christian goes through one verse of the Lord's Prayer that should help you figure out what you need to get through each day. Listen, match it up to how you feel about Matt 6:5-15. Good God, good stuff.

On today's podcast Eric is joined by Michael Fulmer to discuss Bobby Heugel and Jackie Stromm uniting for a new cocktail bar concept and Michael's beef with an overused word in food media. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Good God, Nadine's and Ichijiku Neighborhood Sushi are featured. Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Exclusive: New Cocktail Bar from Houston Hospitality Stars Coming to the Heights Growing Burger Chain Slides into First Houston Location Country Star Koe Wetzel Opens New Location of his Lively Bar in Houston Houston Restaurant Served Beyoncé a Southern Feast for her First Meal in H-Town Houston's Best New Restaurant Shows Off at CultureMap Tasting Table Dinner

When life feels out of control, it's easy to question if God is even paying attention. But what if He's working through the very people and circumstances we'd never expect—writing a bigger story we just can't see yet?

Let's be honest—sometimes we have questions that feel too awkward or embarrassing to ask out loud. So, we hide behind the phrase, “just asking for a friend.” Most people know it's really our question, but saying it that way gives us a little cover in case it sounds silly or uncomfortable. The same thing often happens in church. We hesitate to ask tough questions about faith because we don't want to seem foolish or unspiritual. In this next series, we want to put an end to that, and for the next five weeks we are going to be in a series called Asking for a Friend.  We will be looking at some of the tough questions of the Christian faith and trying to answer them from Scripture. This week Pastor Jeff Moes leads the discussion from a question we've all had at one time: “Why would a loving God send people to Hell?”  We will dive into why God would create a place such as Hell and what the purpose behind it was.  Even more importantly, we'll talk about how you and I can have confidence that we'll never end up there.--WebsiteFacebookInstagramSunday SetlistConnect with us!

Welcome back to another episode of Man VS Marriage! Is there a path for redemption in this life when you hit rock bottom?This week we have Dr. Jonathan Welton back on the program talking redemption. As a public Figure he was a Leader, Pastor, Theologian, Author, Speaker, and head of a bible academy among other things. Dr. Welton crashed his entire ministry and potentially more importantly his Marriage and fatherhood in 2018. This plummet upended the entire ethos he, his family, and his team had been building and it was in many cases quite traumatic for all parties involved including himself. Where do you find yourself? Maybe you live out of the public spotlight however, what is written above is something you can relate to...WHAT IF there is a road to redemption?WHAT IF.. you can take responsibility for what has happened and by the GRACE of a Good God you can make your way back? YOU CAN! It may not look the same as Dr. Welton's, it might not even look similar to what you envision when you muster the courage to make a comeback. We however have the tangible example that it is POSSIBLE and yes it is possible for you.Dr. Welton endeavored to walk the path of redemption in order that he would right the wrongs to the best of his ability and so he might be the example that by and through God's grace it is possible. SO maybe you are asking, What did this guy do? How did he do all of this? Let's get on into it! There's nothing to it but to do it! For more on Dr. Welton, his contact, his books and more checkout:jonwelton.com Yo Bro! or Sis :) Help us BUILD the brand and change lives where you are!VIST www.quincymoran.com/apparel right now! buy our clothing and represent in you local area. Let's change lives together!want to contact me?email: quincy@mvsmpodcast.com to get in touch! Check out our youtube! We are NEW on youtube and excited to grow the platform within the YT community!https://www.youtube.com/@manvsmarriagepodcast3348/videos#COMMUNICATION #pornaddiction #sex #marriedsex #marriage #mariagehelp #marriageandrelationships #relationship101 #marriagepodcast #marriagehelp #marriagebootcamp #love #lovestory #couples #faith #Relationship #relationships #Problem #Problems #CognitivePower #Opinion #Opinions #Trust #Marriage #Married #Truth #TruthTeller #Standard #Standards #Negotiate #Negotiating #Romance #romantic #reconciliation #selfimprovement #help #christian #redemption #narcissist #narcissism

In this episode, Eli interacts with Dr. James Sterba's attempt at presenting a successful Logical Problem of Evil.

Psalm 23 | Our Good God | Jon Deedrick

This podcast features the songs "He's Enough" (The Powells) and "More Like You"(The Powells) as well as part 2 of the message called "Why Does a Good God Allow Evil?" given by Pastor Stephen Pope from the pulpit of Calvary Baptist Church (Union Grove, NC)

Josh, Curt, and Spencer discuss the sovereignty of God, the responsibility of man, and reflect on suffering and lament.

Jonathan Griffiths is pastor of Metropolitan Bible Church in Ottawa, Canada and leads Encounter the Truth, a media ministry that broadcasts on radio and podcasts across the U.S. and Canada. In his recent book, Gathered for Good: God's Good Design for the Local Church, he addresses the need for in-person gathering with empathy and authority, and encourages believers to commit to their local church community as a way to deepen their spiritual growth. Join the Theology in the Raw community for as little as $5/month to get access to premium content at patreon.com/theologyintheraw  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Covid changed a lot of things including in person worship. There is a place for online worship but in this conversation we talk about the theological and spiritual good of gathering in person rather than just online.  Jonathan Griffiths is a Lead Pastor in Ottawa, Canada and also a writer.  He wrote the book "Gathered for Good: God's Good Design for the Local Church". A great conversation on the importance of the local church.

If you feel weighed down by guilt or shame, there is hope for you. Barbara Rainey explains the solution found only in Jesus.Barbara Rainey invites us to reflect on the parts of ourselves we've always wished were different, sharing openly about her own lifelong struggle with shyness. Through storytelling—from childhood memories to passages in C.S. Lewis's Narnia—and a deep dive into John 9, Barbara reminds us that God doesn't make mistakes with our design or our past. Even the things we might view as handicaps, she says, can be purposed for God's glory. Join Barbara and host Michelle as they explore what it means to find confidence and healing through Jesus, the Son—who is, indeed, enough for every painful chapter in our story.Timestamps00:00 "Narnia Storytime"06:09 "The Paradox of a Good God"07:17 "God's Sufficiency for Your Past"12:29 "Jesus' Initiative and Compassion"15:45 Born with a Shy Nature18:06 "Embrace Your God-Given Traits"20:07 "Barbara Rainey Podcast Outro"Key Topics1. Introduction: Struggles with Our Insecurities and Personality TraitsBarbara Rainey poses a reflective question about what personal traits listeners wish they didn't have.Michelle introduces Barbara's own struggle with shyness.Establishing a theme of personal dissatisfaction with innate characteristics.2. Assurance of God's Purpose and No Mistakes in CreationBarbara asserts that God doesn't make mistakes in our design or life circumstances.She affirms that, even if we never understand why we're made a certain way, we can trust God's intentions.3. The Search for Satisfaction and God as the Ultimate SourceMichelle discusses universal longings and the tendency to search for fulfillment in things apart from God.Introduction to the idea that God—Father, Son, and Spirit—is sufficient for every need.4. Literary Reflection: Excerpt from The Chronicles of NarniaBarbara reads a passage from “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”The children's discovery of Narnia and initial encounter with Mr. Beaver.The children ask about Aslan and learn He is both powerful and not “safe,” but fundamentally good.Drawing parallels between Aslan and God: Good, not always “safe,” mysterious in His ways.5. Wrestling with Wanting a Predictable and Safe GodBarbara shares her own desire for a God she can understand and predict.Insights on learning to accept God's goodness even when His ways are beyond comprehension.Introduction of the theme: “God is enough for our past, present, and future.”6. Focus on God the Son: Jesus is Enough for Our PastPlan to examine three aspects: God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; today focusing on the Son.Context-setting for the selected scripture:The significance of the word “believe” in the Book of John.Exploration of belief as a feminine noun in Greek, and its relational implications (e.g., women's faith at the tomb).Scriptural context for John 9:Story takes place midway through Jesus' ministry, during the Festival of Lights (Hanukkah).7. The Story of the Man Born Blind: John 9Jesus notices the blind man, highlighting divine initiative.Consideration of the man's lifelong dependence, potential for isolation, and feelings of hopelessness.Disciples' question about the source of the man's blindness reflects human desire to find blame and maintain control.Jesus' response: blindness is not a result of sin, but an opportunity for the works of God to be displayed.8. Theological Implications: God's Sovereignty and Human StruggleReference to Exodus 4:11: God as creator of all abilities and disabilities.Wrestling with the discomfort that God can allow suffering or hardship for His purposes.God's higher plans may involve temporary or lifelong struggles to display His glory.9. Personal Application: Identifying Our Own “Handicaps”Barbara shares her own story of lifelong shyness and feeling different.Listeners are prompted to identify and reflect on their own “handicaps” or lifelong struggles.Sharing experiences of feeling like a mistake within one's family or community.Encouragement to see personal struggles as purposeful in God's plan.10. Conclusion: Believing God's Good Purposes in Our StoriesReflection on the blind man's faith and response to Jesus.Posing a question to listeners: Will you trust God's purpose and believe, like the man born blind?Michelle's summary: It takes faith to believe that Jesus is enough for our past and that God is wise in all He allows.11. Closing and Next Episode TeaserMention of resources (Barbara's Substack and epic poem “The Wonder of the Word”).Preview of part two: “God the Father is enough for our present.”

Greg answers questions about how to respond to someone who's struggling with how a good God could let her husband suffer, how to know if something is objectively a sin, particularly when it comes to polygamy, and how to pray when asked at a family dinner where nobody is a believer.   Topics: How should I respond to someone who is struggling with the question of how a good God could let her husband suffer? (00:00) How can we know if something is objectively a sin or not, particularly when it comes to polygamy? (25:00) What should I say in my prayer when I'm asked to pray at my family's Thanksgiving dinner where nobody is a believer? (49:00) Mentioned on the Show:  The Problem of Pain by C.S. Lewis Street Smarts: Using Questions to Answer Christianity's Toughest Challenges by Greg Koukl Confessions of a French Atheist: How God Hijacked My Quest to Disprove the Christian Faith by Guillaume Bignon Related Links: What You Need to Know about Evil and Suffering by Amy Hall If God Is Good: Faith in the Midst of Suffering and Evil by Randy Alcorn What Would Polygamy Do to Society? by Amy Hall Does God Endorse Polygamy? by Alan Shlemon Polygamy in the Bible Is Not Prescriptive by Robby Lashua