Podcasts about Goodness

This is a rerelease of a previous episode. In response to a listener question, Derek, Matt, and Alastair go deep on the doctrine of creation. They ask and answer questions about whether creation is real, what counts as worship, what makes a doctrine of creation thick or thin, and whether we need to be thinking about God at all times.  Timestamps: On the Excitement Meter [0:00] Wherein Lies the Deepness? [2:13] Reality and Goodness [10:30] Participatory vs. Intrinsic Value [14:12] A Dim Reflection [15:53] Curiositas [18:57] Not Everything Is Worship [22:39] Children of the Earth [40:44]

Kailey Newkirk // Spirit-led goodness and kindness go beyond politeness—they're costly, countercultural, and point others to Jesus. When we embody them, we offer the world a glimpse of God's heart in action.Visit Our Website summitchurchfl.org Follow Us on Social Media Facebook // InstagramWatch Online Services and More YouTube Subscribe for weekly sermon podcasts!

God is not safe, but he is good. This week we look at In the Wilderness 3-4, and learn what God has in common with a nuclear bomb and why you don't just NEED a priest, you can BE one!Got a question about this teaching or a teaching from this series? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Submit it here!⁠⁠⁠⁠About Music Track: Track: Inspirational Flight Artist: AShamaluevMusic Owner: Aleksandr Shamaluev.

In today's spiritual fitness workout, Coach Caleb White explains the biblical plan for how to grow in the fruit of the Spirit with a look at grapes and the goodness of God!  As a thank you for your support this month, we'd love to bless you with a gift of your choice.Choose from three excellent books -each designed to encourage and equip you as you grow in Christ.Tracing His Promise: Donna Amidon shares 25 OT stories revealing Jesus in God's redemptive plan.Tactics:  A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions  -   Practical tools to share and defend your faith with confidence and grace.Discovering a Living Faith: Explore James with Pastor Bryan Clark – Insightful and practical guidance.Yours with a gift of any amount.Thank you for supporting the mission of Christ.

Job 38-41 - All of the questions and wrestlings of Job come to a head in these chapters as God finally responds from the whirlwind. But instead of supplying answers, God introduces even more questions--questions directed to Job meant to illustrate just how incomplete Job's knowledge of the universe and capacity for justice are. But within God's humbling questions is a greater invitation: to trust the goodness of God, even when we're in pain and even when we don't understand. A sermon by Ron Friesen. [Part 5 of our series “God, Goodness & Suffering: The Wisdom of the Book of Job”]

Alright, y'all, we've been doing this for 100 episodes, how can there be anything strange or new left? What's that, you say? You're saying there are almost 900 more episodes to go?? Goodness me, how on Earth are we supposed to continue on with this trek through the stars? Will it go on forever? Or is it time to finally pull into space dock and give it a rest? These questions, and more, will probably go unanswered in this premiere episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Episode discussion starts at 19:53. This is the final episode in our look at Modern Trek. Hosted by Jaron Hatch, Aaron Cole, & Andrew Nadon. Email us at storiedstartrek@gmail.com Visit our Discord Server at https://discord.gg/6ynq25Zvkh

+ Listen to the end for an exclusive new song preview from CityAlight, written in conjunction with Tim Challies' and Tim Keesee's new book, "From the Rising of the Sun." Together again with Tim Challies, this time to talk about his new book, "From the Rising of the Sun," co-written with Tim Keesee. The book journeys around the globe, following the sun from Fiji to Alaska, to witness how believers in different nations and cultures worship the same Lord in diverse and beautiful ways.In our conversation, we discuss what the global church can teach us about worship, the surprising ways Christians express their faith across cultures, and how seeing the worldwide body of Christ at worship can challenge and enrich our own understanding of what it means to gather in Jesus' name.Tim Challies is a pastor, noted speaker, author of numerous articles, and a pioneer in the Christian blogosphere. Tens of thousands of people visit Challies.com each day, making it one of the most widely read and recognized Christian blogs in the world. Tim is the author of several books, including Visual Theology, The Next Story, and, most recently, Pilgrim Prayers: Devotional Poems That Awaken Your Heart to the Goodness, Greatness, and Glory of God.Personal Website/Writing: https://www.ryleyheppner.comApologetics Canada: https://apologeticscanada.com/ryley-heppner/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryleyhepp/

Kailey Newkirk // Spirit-led goodness and kindness go beyond politeness—they're costly, countercultural, and point others to Jesus. When we embody them, we offer the world a glimpse of God's heart in action.Visit Our Website summitchurchfl.org Follow Us on Social Media Facebook // InstagramWatch Online Services and More YouTube Subscribe for weekly sermon podcasts!

Gift of the Spirit—Salvation (Acts 2:38, 11:17)Gifts of the Spirit—Service (1 Peter 4:10)Fruit of the Spirit—Character/Attitude (Gal 5:22-23)Love. Joy. Peace. [GOD]Patience. Kindness. Goodness. [OTHERS]Faithfulness. Gentleness. Self-control. [SELF]GentlenessPre-Christian use of the word “gentleness” (Greek: prautes):·     Aristotle (Greek Philosopher: 384-322 B.C.)—Balance between anger and passivity.·     Plato (Greek Philosopher: 428-348 B.C.)—Behavior of a ruler seeking power.·     Pinder (Greek Poet: 518-438 B.C.)—Mild and kind king.·     Herodotus (“Father of History”: 484-425 B.C.)—Opposite of anger.Gentleness: “Strength under control.” “Power harnessed.” Two Biblical Examples of Gentleness Moses (Numbers 12:3)Now the man Moses was very meek, more than all people who were on the face of the earth.Jesus (Matthew 11:29)Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Gentleness begins by being in the Word.Gentleness shapes my words.Gentleness shapes my actions. --------DAILY DEVOTIONAL WITH RON MOOREGet Ron's Daily Devotional to your inbox each morning; visit biblechapel.org/devo.CAREGIVINGDo you have a need we can pray for? Do you need someone to walk alongside you? Do you know of another person who needs care? Let us know at caregiving@biblechapel.org.GROWTH TRACKWe all have a next step - what's yours? To learn more about our Growth Track and to take your next step, biblechapel.org/connect.

Matthew 7:7-12To discover more messages of hope go to tallowood.org/sermons/.Follow us on Instagram, X, and YouTube @tallowoodbc.Follow us on FaceBook @tallowoodbaptist

Have you ever tried to outrun God? In this unforgettable finale to the Psalm 23 series, Pastor Travis Hearn brings a raw, heart-grabbing word about the relentless pursuit of God's love. Through vivid storytelling—from childhood games of chase to real-life moments of spiritual resistance—Pastor Travis illustrates how God's goodness and mercy are not just passive companions, but divine forces actively chasing us down, even when we run. Drawing from Psalm 23:6, this message reveals the Hebrew depth behind the words tov (goodness) and chesed (mercy)—God's abundant kindness and His unbreakable, covenant love. You'll discover that these aren't just theological concepts—they are the very heartbeat of God running after you, even in your darkest valleys, deepest regrets, and most rebellious moments. From Jonah's stormy detour to the prodigal son's homecoming, this message will stir your soul and challenge your heart to stop running and surrender to the God who never gives up on you. His mercy meets you in the barbed wire of your failures. His goodness shines even in the storms. And His love chases you all the way home—to healing, restoration, and eternity. It's time to stop running. It's time to taste and see that the Lord is good.

1. Surely means to listen up:     A.  A truth you don't want to miss                                                                 B.  A truth that summarizes the passage                                            C.  A truth that is life changing                                                                        2. Goodness and Mercy are chasing me A.  Not to harm but to help   B.  To give blessings I don't deserve C.  To withhold judgements I do deserve D. To care for my steps and my stumbles  E. Everyday of my life  3. The greatest blessing to come A.  To dwell in the Lord's house B.  A dwelling place prepared for me C.  A dwelling place in the Lord's presence   D. A dwelling place with the Lord forever

A sermon based on Luke 18:9-14 Our Redeemer Lutheran Madison August 31, 2025

Philippians 1:8-11

Sunday School 8/31/2025.

Words of Warning about a False Hope.

God is a good giver. Our Father is the ultimate example of The One who gives and gives and gives. All of creation was breathed into existence with such precision so as to create the exact environment that we need to even exist. And so life itself is a precious gift. The air He made to fill the lungs He designed. The water that sustains. The food that nourishes. All gifts given by our God who is a really good giver. God also gives Good. The things He gives are only Good. Creation. Salvation. His Church. Hope. Second chances. Peace. Love. Purpose. People. In fact, the only things He withholds from us are things we would all consider really bad – His wrath and judgment and justice and punishment. And even in those things, and because He is such a good giver of Good things, He made a way around all of the things we truly deserve and He has given us the Goodness of His Son for our salvation. He gives Good. The challenge, though, comes when we turn the good gifts into little g gods. We mismanage and misuse and abuse our time. We tend to worship the people who are really good at what they do. We are drawn to idolize stuff – homes, cars, clothes, jobs, comfort, toys – and the dollar bills that provide them for us. We are tempted to trivialize relationships and exploit them for our benefit, turning people into a product. These goods have been misused, abused, and damaged by so many for so long. But what if we didn't? What if we did it differently?What if we held the good gifts our good God has given us loosely? With wide open hands and a heart that chooses to worship our good God WITH the good gifts He's given us?What if we began to realize that God doesn't so much want things FROM us as much as He wants things FOR us? God desires His good gifts to be used for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. And it should start here.

Saturday is review day on The Daily Promise. Every Saturday, we review the promises of the week so we can allow them to go deep into our hearts and lives. Here are the promises we covered this week. 1 John 5:4 – Faith that Overcomers. Psalm 118:29 – I Am Thankful for God's Goodness. Psalm 37:23-24 – God Picks Me Up When I Fall. Ephesians 3:20 – I Have God's Abundant Power in Me. John 15:9 – I Dwell in the Love of Christ.

In this second episode on the attributes of God, we discuss God's will, righteousness, and goodness.

In this episode, Elise Loehnen explains why chasing goodness keeps us stuck and how to choose wholeness instead. For so many of us, the drive to be “good” shapes how we show up – as friends, partners, coworkers, even in how we speak to ourselves on hard days. But what does it cost us to live that way? Elise invites us to see that the real challenge isn't to feed only the good wolf, but to become a whole wolf; one who integrates all parts of ourselves, even the ones we'd rather hide. She explores the hidden price of goodness, the surprising usefulness of envy, the roles we unconsciously inherit, and the stories that keep us small. This conversation will help you rethink what wholeness means and how embracing it can lead to a more authentic, empowered life.Discover the six hidden saboteurs that quietly derail your best intentions—like autopilot behavior, self-doubt, and emotional escape. Download our free guide to uncover what's getting in your way and learn simple strategies to take back control. Get it now at oneyoufeed.net/ebook.Key Takeaways:Exploration of inner conflict and personal growth.Discussion of the concept of wholeness versus goodness.Examination of the parable of the two wolves and its implications for self-identity.Reframing the seven deadly sins as energies rather than moral failings.Identification of common obstacles to personal growth, such as self-doubt and emotional escapism.Introduction of practical tools for recognizing and transforming personal narratives.Importance of setting boundaries and learning to say no.The role of envy as a complex emotion and its potential for self-discovery.Discussion of the influence of cultural narratives on personal desires and behaviors.Emphasis on flexibility in self-understanding and the ongoing journey of personal integration.If you enjoyed this conversation with Elise Loehnen, check out these other episodesMimetic Desires in Everyday Life with Luke BurgisHow to Embrace the Wisdom of the Women Mystics with Mirabai StarrFor full show notes, click here!Connect with the show:Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPodSubscribe on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyFollow us on InstagramSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever felt like you should be able to figure out and answer all of life's questions--immediately? That if you could just find the one right lifestyle and location for you, your life would be all shimmer and shine? That you should just find life and adulthood easier? That everyone else finds it easier? These are myths about life that have their fingerprints all over our psyches. They weigh on us and dredge up feelings of not-enoughness, pulling us away from the present moment and into traps of comparison and wishful thinking. These are the myths that we are unpacking and dispelling in today's episode, inspired by Sheryl's upcoming course: Break Free from Anxiety: A 9-Month Course on the Art of Living (which begins September 20, 2025).  Stay tuned for Part 2, a discussion of three more myths! References: Gathering Gold episodes about Escape Hatch Fantasies, Dropping into Your Body, and The Goodness of Ordinary Life Mothers and Other Fictional Characters: A Memoir in Essays, by Nicole Graev Lipson

“One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.” —Proverbs 11:24Scripture calls us to be both wise savers and generous givers—but holding those two together can feel like a tension. How do we avoid fear on one side and foolishness on the other? Dr. Shane Enete joins us today to show how these two principles actually go hand in hand.Dr. Shane Enete is an Associate Professor of Finance at Biola University and founded the Biola Center for Financial Planning. He is also the author of the book Whole Heart Finances: A Jesus-Centered Guide to Managing Your Money with Joy.Living in the TensionJohn Wesley famously wrote, “Earn all you can, save all you can, give all you can.” It sounds simple enough, but when you sit down with a budget, the statement can feel more like a paradox than a plan. After all, how can you both save as much as you can and give as much as you can? At some point, choices must be made.Rather than resolving the paradox with rigid rules, we encourage believers to embrace the complexity as part of the Christian life.In the absence of clarity, many of us make rules. One common example is the “80/10/10 rule”—give 10%, save 10%, and live on the remaining 80%. While this framework may be helpful, we must also be cautious that this can risk reducing Christian stewardship to legalism.The Christian life is a paradox. Christ Himself is a paradox—fully God and fully man. When we encounter a paradox, we shouldn't flatten it into a rule. Instead, we're invited into a relationship with God and to walk with Him in the tension.Stewardship as ArtSo how do we approach the paradox of saving and giving without rigid formulas? We should think of stewardship more as an art rather than a science. Just as Jesus used metaphors—such as sheep, seeds, trees, and vines—to describe the mysteries of the Kingdom, we too can use metaphors to navigate the complexity of money.Art allows us to co-create with God, and it moves us from rule-keeping to relationship, from legalism to a life that draws us closer to Him and to one another.One compelling metaphor is water. Water is life-giving when it flows, but when it stagnates, it becomes toxic. In the same way, money is meant to flow—received from God and passed on to bless others.Of course, saving is still essential—as it's like a reservoir that ensures water can flow steadily—but the point is not the reservoir itself. It's the flow that revitalizes both the giver and those who receive.The call to “save all you can, give all you can” is not a puzzle to be solved but a paradox to be lived. By resisting the urge to reduce it to rigid formulas and instead embracing stewardship as a creative act with God, we discover a more life-giving way to approach money. The flow is what matters. That's what brings life.You can read Dr. Enete's full article—and gain access to other exclusive resources—by becoming a FaithFi Partner. With your support of $35 a month or $400 a year, you'll not only receive Faithful Steward but also enjoy other special benefits designed to encourage and equip you on your stewardship journey. Join us today at FaithFi.com/Partner.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My wife and I are buying our first home, and we're a single-income family. Should I include her on the mortgage, or keep her off so she wouldn't be financially responsible if something were to happen to me?I was born in 1959, so my full retirement age for Social Security is 66 and 10 months. I plan to continue working and earn around $60,000 per year, and my Social Security benefit will be approximately $38,000 per year. Can I work and collect my full benefit, or do I need to worry about an earnings limit?You've mentioned online investing options, such as robo-advisors, for individuals looking to invest less than $20,000. What is the name of that service?I want to start an account for my great-grandchildren—ages three, 18 months, and one week—to put money aside for them. I've considered a universal life insurance policy (UIL), but I'd appreciate your advice on the best approach.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)SavingForCollege.comSchwab Intelligent Portfolios®Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Ever feel like you're constantly trying to be the perfect friend, partner, coworker, or mom? That pressure to live up to everyone else's expectations is a trap—and it's keeping you stuck in self-sacrifice and people-pleasing. In this episode, I'm chatting with Elise Loehnen, author of On Our Best Behavior, about how we can stop chasing the impossible standard of “goodness” and start embracing our whole, authentic selves. We break down how society programs women to seek external approval—and why that's keeping us disconnected from our real power. If you're ready to stop living a performance and start showing up as your true self, let's go.Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://schoolofnewfeministthought.com/418Mentioned in this episode:Have you been secretly dreaming of becoming a coach?I've got something for you. It's absolutely free and it's called The 3 Things I Wish I'd Known Before Becoming a Life Coach. This is the exact resource I wish I'd had a decade ago when I got my start. To download it, go to: https://the-school-of-new-feminist-thought.captivate.fm/threeClick here to download: 3 Things I Wish I'd Known Before Becoming a Life Coach

“What does it mean to make change in my life—not from a place that there was something wrong with me?” asks my coauthor Courtney Smith. “But I made choices that have gotten me here. I respect and value those choices. I understand I wouldn’t be here without them. And I'm also choosing to do something a little bit different going forward.” Courtney is a coach, group facilitator, and Enneagram expert. Today, we’re taking you through the seven tools that form the core process of our new workbook Choosing Wholeness Over Goodness: A Process for Reclaiming Your Full Self. If you want to go deeper, I’m including a lot of interconnected material in the show notes (per usual, though)—including links to my past conversations with Courtney.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this very special episode of the Rooted Parent podcast, Cameron and Anna welcome Kelly Kapic. His work on human limits was part of the inspiration for this Can't Do It All season. In this episode, you will learn how God-given limits are not only not sin, they are blessings, God's good plan for our flourishing. Kelly touches on humility, academics, faithfulness, and hard work. In addition to being a husband and father, Kelly is a professor of theological studies at Covenant College, and the author of more than 15 books, including Christianity Today book award winner You're Only Human, and most recently, a devotional called You Were Never Meant to Do It All: A 40-Day Devotional on the Goodness of Being Human. Kelly is already a friend of the ministry, having been a main speaker at our 2023 conference in Franklin, TN.  The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der KolkFollow us @rootedministry!Please rate and review the Rooted Parent Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts! Romans 8:31-37Psalm 61:1-4 Romans 8 for ParentsWhy Teenagers Need to Know that God is For Us by Steve Eatmon Mom and Dad, Nothing Can Separate You from the Love of Christ by Dan Hallock Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates Register for Rooted 2025 Conference in Chicago

Powerful Message by Pastor Blake Andrews 

In Christ Jesus.

Authenticity, AI, and the Real Work of Solopreneurship with Suzanne Taylor-KingWhat does it really mean to build a prosperous, purpose-driven business in today's world? In this episode of Creative On Purpose Live, Scott Perry talks with Suzanne Taylor-King about the intersection of authenticity, business growth, and new technology.From her first entrepreneurial venture at age 11 to guiding entrepreneurs through soul-driven marketing, Suzanne shares powerful lessons on knowing yourself, connecting with the right people, and using tools like AI to amplify—not replace—your humanity.You'll hear stories about:* Early lessons in delegation and value creation* How to define and practice authenticity in business* The importance of knowing your values, skills, and true market fit* Offline relationship-building skills that translate to online success* Using AI as “amplified intelligence” to expand your reach without losing your voice* Why internal self-work delivers the highest ROI (Return on Investment & Ripples of Influence)Listen in and take away principles you can apply today to move forward with more clarity, courage, and confidence.Here's the video replay if you prefer to watch.Resources & Next Steps:

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Every time we hit record on this podcast, there's always that half hour before—the raw, unfiltered conversation—that feels like the best part. This time, it was about seasons changing, kids heading back to school, routines shifting, businesses rolling into budget season, and all of us feeling that turbulence. In the middle of that swirl, we started talking about purpose, fear, and what it means to actually go for it—not just coasting through life, but making real choices that align with who we are.From dropping kids off at college to holding doors for strangers, this episode digs into the little and big ways we can recommit, realign, and move with intention as the year winds down. Five Key Insights:The season shift is a reset button. As routines change with back-to-school and fall approaching, it's the perfect time to pause, reflect, and recommit to what matters most. Fear doesn't have to control you. Like your son transferring colleges, making bold moves requires courage—not the absence of fear, but the refusal to let fear dictate the outcome. Misalignment drains purpose. Social media and the grind can push us off track, but when we chase things that don't align with who we are, fulfillment disappears. Realignment brings energy back. Your purpose is about impact. Purpose isn't just what you do—it's what happens in others because of what you do. And in turn, that outward focus fuels your own fulfillment. Small actions shape culture. Holding doors, smiling at neighbors, saying hello—these simple choices ripple outward. Every interaction is a chance to build a world that feels more connected.One TruthYou're never stuck—every season brings the chance to realign with your purpose and choose the life you want to live. 

Christina Carpenter is a homeschooling mom of 4 who is passionate about home education and cultivating intentional family culture. In this episode, Christina shares how she establishes a vision for her homeschool and uses truth, goodness, and beauty to ground her homeschool days. By studying the longstanding educational philosophies and methodologies that have served families for centuries, Christina has blended together the elements that best serve her family to create a unique family culture that encourages curiosity and celebrates the joy of discovery. Be sure to check out Christina's Bloom and Blossom Conference coming up on October 11th in San Diego, California. You'll be encouraged and equipped by inspiring speakers like Greta Eskridge, Carrie de Francisco, and Amy Hughes. Grab your spot here!You can find the complete show notes for this episode at homeschoolcompass.com/podcast.We'd love to connect with you outside your podcast player!Follow the Homeschool Compass on Instagram or FacebookDownload free printable resources for your homeschoolBrowse our book listsSign up for the Homeschool Compass email newsletterThank you for leaving The Homeschool Compass Podcast a rating and a review in your podcast player! It helps new homeschool families find these encouraging conversations. We so appreciate you.

Today's Promise: Psalm 118:29 Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; For His lovingkindness is everlasting. - Psalm 118:29 You can be thankful today because God is good. He is good in His character, good in His ways, and good in how He deals with you. All we have and all we are come from the Lord. The Lord pours His blessings on us every day. His goodness and commitment love for us never end. We each enjoy more blessings than we ever deserve. Today, you can be thankful because no matter your situation, you are blessed by God.

I'm so excited for today's conversation with Sophia Ruffin-Wilson! Her brand-new book, It Will Be God: Live in the Jaw-Dropping Realities of God's Goodness, just released today, and she came by the podcast to share her powerful story and the heart behind this message.Sophia knows what it means to be radically transformed by Jesus. From a past marked by brokenness to a life filled with purpose and freedom, she has experienced God's deliverance and goodness firsthand. In this episode, we talk about:How God brought her out of darkness into freedom back in 2003Her journey of identity restoration and deliveranceThe “Comeback Kid” seasons of her life and what they taught her about resilienceThe deep faith that carried her through family loss and hard decisionsWhy she wrote It Will Be God and what she hopes readers take awayBreaking generational patterns and living anchored in God's promisesHow to walk confidently in your calling with authenticitySophia reminds us that even in the hardest valleys, God is faithful — and His goodness will always have the final say.

by Elder Chris McCool, Pastor (preached on July 20, 2025) When we paused the sermon yesterday, we were continuing to examine the prayer/sermon of Nehemiah Chapter 9. We are looking at the content of this prayer/sermon, which traces the history of the Nation of Israel from their formation up until the present time of Nehemiah....

Briefing Document: The Power of Hope This document summarizes key themes and ideas from Joe Granieri's sermon, "Are You a Prisoner of Hope?", focusing on the multifaceted nature of biblical hope and its transformative power in a believer's life. Main Themes: Defining Biblical Hope: Hope is presented not as a wishful desire but as a "confident expectation of good" rooted in the absolute goodness of God. It's a forward-looking mindset that transcends past hurts and negative emotions. The Goodness of God as the Foundation of Hope: A foundational belief in God's unwavering goodness, even in the face of suffering (e.g., cancer, disease), is essential for hope. The sermon asserts that after Jesus' sacrifice, God is "never angry with Christians" and desires salvation for all. Hope, Faith, and Love: An Interconnected Trinity: These three concepts are presented as inseparable and mutually reinforcing. Hope is positioned as central, with faith expressing itself through love. Hope as an Anchor for the Soul: Biblical hope provides stability and steadfastness, particularly during life's storms and emotional turmoil, connecting believers directly to the presence of God. Hope's Practical Manifestations and Benefits: Hope actively impacts a believer's daily life, leading to joy, peace, amplified imagination, perseverance, and ultimately, victory over depression and adverse circumstances. Discipleship and Outward Focus: A disciple is defined by an outward focus, caring for others rather than being self-absorbed. This selfless love is a byproduct and expression of hope. The Role of Imagination and Experience: Hope is connected to the imagination, allowing believers to "see the invisible" and envision their God-given future. Christianity is described as an "experiential thing" where hope is cultivated through divine encounters. God's Restoration and Inheritance: Hope is sustained by the belief that God is a God of restoration, capable of returning what has been lost, even "twice as much" as seen in the story of Job. Believers have an "inheritance from God" encompassing healing, peace, joy, and every spiritual blessing. Overcoming Depression through Hope and Praise: Hope, coupled with praise, is presented as a powerful antidote to depression and anxiety, enabling believers to maintain a positive outlook even when circumstances are dire. The Example of Abraham: Abraham serves as a prime example of someone who, "contrary to hope" (natural hope), believed in God's supernatural power, demonstrating unwavering faith despite challenging circumstances and personal weaknesses. Most Important Ideas and Facts: Definition of Hope: "Hope looks to the future. It does not let your past affect you. Hope doesn't allow negative emotions or past hurts to defeat it. If you have hope, then you have a positive expectation of good." The Absolute Goodness of God: "If you do not believe in the absolute goodness of God all the time, then you cannot have hope." This includes believing God does not cause negative events like cancer or earthquakes. Post-Calvary Perspective of God's Wrath: "The net result of that is God is never angry with Christians. He's never angry with us." Jesus took all the wrath and judgment. Hope's Connection to Imagination: "Hope is the New Testament word for imagination." It allows us to "see the invisible" and envision our future. Hope as an Anchor: "The hope we have is an anchor to your soul. That's your emotions... sure and steadfast which enters the presence behind the veil." This anchor connects our emotional state to the "fullness of joy" in God's presence. God's Will for Salvation: "God's will is that every person would be born again and go to heaven. Hell was not made for man." Discipleship vs. Believer: Moving from being a "believer to being a disciple" involves becoming "not self-focused and not self-absorbed or self-entitled," but caring about others. Faith without Love is Worthless: "Paul said, 'Faith without love is worthless. It doesn't have any any positive effect in your life.'" God's Word Creates Hope: "God's word creates hope in our heart... so that through the patience and comfort of the scriptures we might have hope." Hope Defeats Depression: David's example in Psalms 42 and 43 demonstrates how to overcome being "cast down" by "Hope in God" and "yet praise him." Living Effortlessly: Drawing an analogy to eagles and lilies of the field, the sermon suggests God wants believers to "live effortlessly" by receiving from Him and flowing in the Spirit. Abraham's Faith and Hope: Abraham "contrary to hope" (natural circumstances) "in hope in the supernatural power of God, he believed." God looked at Abraham through "faith righteousness," overlooking his faults. Our Inheritance in Christ: Believers have a "living hope" through Jesus' resurrection, leading to an "inheritance... incorruptible, undefiled, that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you." This inheritance includes "soundness of mind, healing for your body, peace, joy, everything that he died for, it's even blessing and prosperity." Prosperity of the Soul: "As your soul prospers, how does it prosper? You grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus. You learn about your imagination. You learn about your identity. You learn about the finished work of Christ. You learn about the absolute goodness of God." In essence, Granieri's message emphasizes that biblical hope is an active, confident, and transformative force rooted in God's character, experienced through faith and love, and manifested in a life of purpose, joy, and peace, regardless of earthly circumstances. It is a choice to believe in God's unfailing goodness and His ability to fulfill His promises, both in this life and the next.

On this episode of the CityLight Podcast, Pastor Bo unpacks “A Grace that Exalts”—the life-changing truth of God’s grace that lifts, empowers, and accelerates us beyond our own strength. Through Scripture, real-life examples, and lessons from over 30 years of walking with the Lord, he shares seven core values every believer should carry. Favor may not be “fair,” but grace is God’s gift to position you for breakthrough, purpose, and a life rooted in His unfailing Word.(00:00) The Power and Grace of God(16:08) The Importance of God's Forgiveness(20:57) The Depth of God's Forgiveness(34:44) The Power and Promise of God(41:08) The Power of Faith Declarations(50:58) Navigating Faith and God's Goodnesshttps://citylightnyc.com/ 

What if your deepest pain was actually planting seeds for the spiritual fruit your family needs most? Every Christian parent walks through seasons of hardship and heartache, moments that feel like a “dark night of the soul.” But why does God allow these painful, confusing valleys? And—more importantly—what is He growing in us through them? In this solo episode of Christian Parent/Crazy World, host Catherine pulls back the curtain on her own current season of struggle: holding down the fort as her husband works in another state, navigating loneliness, and wrestling with God’s timing and plans. But this isn’t just about surviving difficulty—it’s about discovering what God is accomplishing in the midst of it. Catherine reminds listeners that these hard, unchosen seasons are not evidence of God’s absence, but fertile ground for His deepest growth. Key Insights and Takeaways: Gifts vs. Fruit: Catherine draws on a striking analogy from a recent sermon—how, in the Old Testament, priests wore alternating gold bells (gifts) and pomegranates (fruit) on their robes. Just as gifts and fruit were literally woven together, so too must our talents be balanced with the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. How is Spiritual Fruit Grown? Unlike our natural gifts, spiritual fruit isn’t something we’re born with or can develop by sheer will—it’s birthed in intimacy with God, often in the hardest and most uncomfortable soil. As Catherine powerfully states, “The fruit of the Spirit is birthed in the opposite soil from what it reflects." The Soil Where Each Fruit of the Spirit Grows: Love is birthed in loss Joy is birthed in mourning Peace is birthed in chaos Patience is birthed in waiting Kindness is birthed in disappointment Goodness is birthed in need and injustice Faithfulness is birthed in betrayal Gentleness is birthed in conflict Self-control is birthed in temptation Pain Has Purpose: Using vivid stories—from her own journey to those of friends facing life-threatening illness or unimaginable grief—Catherine assures parents that God never wastes our dark nights. These seasons prepare us, shaping our character to carry God’s gifts with humility and serving as a foundation for godly parenting in a fallen world. Practical Encouragement: Catherine offers heartfelt encouragement and a moving prayer for listeners enduring their own difficult seasons, reminding every Christian parent that “God is growing something in you that you will need for where He is taking you.” Notable Moment:Catherine shares, “Fruit is birthed in the dark night of the soul… Spiritual fruit grows in the dark, in the painful places, in the moments that push us and stretch us and sometimes crush us—because fruit is birthed in the dark night of the soul.” Don’t miss:This episode’s challenge to examine your own family: Are you nurturing both gifts and fruit in your parenting? Are you modeling for your children what it looks like to trust God through sorrow and uncertainty? Call to Action:How might your current struggles be the very soil God is using to grow love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, or self-control in your home? What fruit is He birthing in your family—right now, in the dark? Tune in for a rich, honest conversation that will strengthen you in every season—and don’t forget to subscribe at catherineseagers.com for free resources specially designed for Christian parents. Your dark nights have a purpose—let’s discover it together.Link:Check out this sermon about how fruit grows:"Birth Pains" by Eric Eason Get Your Free Parenting Resources!Are you seeking encouragement and Biblical wisdom as you lead your family? Catherine has created incredible FREE resources just for you—covering topics like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and scriptures for courage, kindness, guidance, and more. These resources are yours when you sign up, along with her weekly newsletter packed with practical insights for Christian parents navigating today’s crazy world.Sign up by emailing catherine@catherinesegars.com today! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

by Elder Chris McCool, Pastor (preached on July 20, 2025) In our exposition of the Book of Nehemiah, we are currently studying about the great prayer/sermon contained in Chapter 9. Last time, we saw that the remnant of Israel that was in Jerusalem took time to focus upon God and praise Him for His greatness....

Job 30-31 - Throughout the main body of the book of Job, Job himself is responding to his friends and calling out to God with a kind of raw, shockingly honest rhetoric that recalls the Psalms of lament. In his final speech culminating in chapter 31, Job helps us see that learning to similarly bring our laments to God is a crucial part of a healthy path through suffering that ignores neither God nor our deepest emotions. A sermon by Cameron Heger. [Part 4 of our series “God, Goodness & Suffering: The Wisdom of the Book of Job”]

In this episode, Hugh talks about how prayers can change anything and why God's goodness produces our thoughts

1. UNDERSTANDING BIBLICAL GOODNESS I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another. Romans 15:14Goodness Is More Than Being NiceGreek word agathos: Active benevolence that seeks others' welfareGoodness confronts what's wrong and promotes what's rightKingdom Principle: God's goodness always acts for His glory and others' benefitOnly God is inherently good Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone.(Mark 10:18)When you're born again, God's nature becomes your natureSpiritual Reality: You don't try to be good - you express the goodness already in you"Stop trying to manufacture what God has already deposited.""You can't live the Christian life on human horsepower - you need Holy Spirit power.""The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead lives in you - start acting like it."Niceness avoids conflict; goodness addresses problemsJesus was good when He cleansed the templeThe Standard: Divine goodness, not cultural politeness"Niceness is about avoiding conflict; goodness is about lovingly confronting what's wrong. (start with yourself though)You can't manufacture spiritual fruit through willpowerThe Problem: Trying to live the Christian life in human strengthThe Solution: Don't try harder - yield deeper.""His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life"You're a partaker of the divine natureKingdom Truth: God doesn't ask you to do what He hasn't equipped you to do"Apart from me you can do nothing" (John 15:5)Goodness flows from intimacy with ChristSpiritual Discipline: Stay connected to the Vine (Emphasize practicing God's presence even in communion today…. Goodness comes from God when you draw near to him19 And the Lord said, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. Exodus 33:19Goodness in your thought life - thinking on things that are pureGoodness in your speech - words that build upPersonal Application: Let God's goodness govern your private moments"Stop trying to manufacture what God has already deposited.""You can't live the Christian life on human horsepower - you need Holy Spirit power.""The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead lives in you - start acting like it."Goodness that forgives when others hurt youGoodness that serves even when it's not convenientJoseph's goodness turned his brothers' evil into God's gloryBiblical Example: How goodness redeemed a broken familyKingdom Strategy: God uses your goodness to accomplish His purposesRelational Truth: God's goodness in you blesses othersApplication on prayer for Gods goodnessBeing salt and light in a corrupt worldStanding for righteousness even when it costs youCultural Impact: One person walking in God's goodness can change an environmentGoodness Is a Divine AttributeGoodness Versus Niceness2. THE SOURCE OF SPIRITUAL GOODNESS3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. 2 Peter 1:3-4It's Not Human EffortIt's Divine NatureIt's Through Abiding3. THE EXPRESSION OF GODLY GOODNESS 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:8-10In Your Personal LifeIn Your RelationshipsIt Transforms SituationsIn Your Community

Psalm 65 - Rev. Jeff Rendell

Exodus 33:17-23

BY FAITH @ Real Talk - REMEMBER God's Goodness

What does it mean to be “good” or to reflect “goodness” in our lives and our parenting? Both words are casually thrown around these days, but this week we're going to dive a little deeper and explore what they actually mean from a Christian perspective. We'll also learn what goodness actually looks like in our lives and parenting and how we can teach and reflect goodness to our kids and how we can represent God well. Let's go. Your Ultimate Age-Appropriate Consequence Guide ⤵️ https://docs.google.com/document/d/1a5xz8wPZ6ZzsalEeX8WW4GQVIWuQQo2TFhyhfeORXxY/edit?usp=drivesdk My 3 Secrets to Discipline Your Children Effectively & In Love ⤵️ https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ixxPxTOARHENeFLesQ0w4-elwzWllIsFPoc1zOiJSfQ/edit?usp=drivesdk

This week's fruit is Goodness, or beneficence if you want to sound fancy. Have you ever picked grapes from an orange tree? Or dates from a pomegranate tree? Of course not. Can you bear good fruit? Only if the goodness of messiah is in you. Aaron and Victoria discuss fruit today, good fruit. Did you notice Victoria's finger? She was getting a bit carried away in the vineyard picking fruit and nearly gave herself an amputation. I might be exaggerating a bit. If you watch the video she'll tell you all about it. In case you missed it, we have launched a new channel dedicated to our music. It will host our musical albums as well as scripture memory verses and sometimes just our fun songs that we like to sing while we are out and about. You can see our new channel here ahttps://www.youtube.com/@LoveandPurityMusic Want to learn more about our ministry? Visit www.LoveAndPurity.com Intro and outro song: Faith for Salvation (1 Peter 1:3-5) by Brayden & Tali Waller All music rights belong to Love & Purity Ministry

Sleep better and Stress Less— with Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. We hope this biblical sleep meditation, narrated by Keaver Brenai, helps your body relax and your mind rest on the truth found in scripture. “He who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus.” Let this peaceful sleep story lead you into deep rest as you trust God’s good work in you. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for better sleep is right here: https://abide.com/peaceDiscover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us

On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Jeff Brown, Headmaster of Hunter Classical Christian School in Richmond, Virginia. They discuss Jeff's journey to discovering classical education, and Hunter Classical's commitment to cultivating character before transcripts. They examine the CLT as a valuable standard for what an ideal student should aspire to learn and an exemplary school should aspire to teach. They conclude by talking about the future of Hunter Classical, including their first class of ninth graders starting this fall.