Podcasts about gracious god

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comRomans 6 “Are we to continue in sin so that grace may increase? May it never be! How shall we who die to sin still live in it?” Through baptism, believers unite with Christ in His death and resurrection, representing the death of their old sinful selves and their rebirth into a life dedicated to God. Becoming new in Christ demands that sin no longer reign over the body. The members of the Christian's body become instruments of righteousness, reclaimed by God to carry out His good will in this world. Once slaves to sin and subject to death, believers become slaves of righteousness, resulting in sanctification and eternal life. “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Grace is never an excuse for sin. God forgives those who repent, but to willfully sin is to distort His grace. In baptism, we are buried with Christ, united with Him, and raised to a new life through His power. This is wonderful news! However, we also die to our old selves, putting to death the body of sin as we are made alive in Jesus. Our bodies are renewed and repurposed for God's intentions. Once slaves to sin, we now live indebted to God, enslaved to righteousness. Many will not commit to God, wanting to claim their lives as their own. But everyone belongs to either sin leading to death or God leading to eternal life. Choose wisely. Gracious God, thank You for freeing us from the bondage of sin through Jesus Christ. Help us to live united with Him in His death and resurrection, leaving behind our old ways and walking in the newness of life. Empower us to resist sin and to offer ourselves fully to You as instruments of righteousness. Open doors of Christ-like service for us today. Remind us daily that we are no longer slaves to sin but are servants of Your grace, secured now and forever. May our lives reflect Your holiness, and may we honor You in all we do. Thought Questions: -       What must be understood about baptism according to this chapter? What does it mean to crucify the old self through baptism? -       Christians are instruments of righteousness to God. What does that mean, and how does it shape how you live your daily life? -       Are you comfortable with being “enslaved to God”? Why is sanctification in God worth surrendering your whole self to Him?

Gracious God, thank you that you are always with me. Even when things do not go as planned, I know I am safe in your care. - Gem Fadling, host of the Unhurried Living Podcast Daily Meditation Travel delays can quickly unravel even the best-laid plans, stirring up stress and frustration. In this gentle devotional, Gem Fadling shares a personal story of how a cascade of unexpected changes during international travel tested her patience—and how God’s presence became her anchor. Rooted in Psalm 73:23-26, this reflection is a tender reminder that patience isn’t just about waiting well; it’s about experiencing God’s nearness in the chaos. Whether you’re navigating delays in airports, or delays in the larger journey of life, this prayer invites you to pause, center yourself in the moment, and remember that you’re never alone.

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 16 Paul embarks on his second journey, taking Silas along with him. In Lystra, they meet Timothy, who joins them after being circumcised to satisfy others. Guided by the Holy Spirit, they are directed to Macedonia following Paul's vision of a man pleading for help. In Philippi, they encounter Lydia, a seller of purple, who converts to Christianity. Later, Paul and Silas liberate a slave girl from an evil spirit, angering her owners, who have them beaten and imprisoned. Around midnight, while they are singing and praying, an earthquake occurs, and the prison doors swing open. The jailer fears for his life, but Paul shares the message of Jesus with him. The jailer and his household are baptized that very hour. The next day, Paul and Silas are officially released. Paul's missionary journey is led by the Holy Spirit. God actively guides him to those whose hearts are prepared for salvation. God continues to reach people today, and we are His vessels to carry the message of Christ, even though our effort may require personal sacrifice. This chapter highlights at least three conversions, each involving a commitment from the new believers as well. Timothy was circumcised, not for salvation, but to gain influence among the Jews. Lydia and her household were likely the first converts in all of Europe. The jailer risked his life by aligning himself and his household with imprisoned men. The gospel demands submission, sacrifice, and courage from all believers in the name of Jesus Christ.  Gracious God, thank You for the powerful stories of faith found in Acts 16. Like Timothy, we pray for a willingness to make personal sacrifices for the sake of others. Like Lydia, we seek to have a heart that is always open to obey You. Like Paul and Silas, we pray for the courage to praise Your name, even in life's most challenging trials. And like the jailer, we ask You to help us build the urgency to do what is right in the very hour that we learn the truth. Open our hearts to respond to Your glorious will. Thought Questions: -       Why was Timothy circumcised? Are you willing to do something painful or hard simply for the sake of someone else's conscience? -       The Lord opened Lydia's heart. What does this mean? How does the Lord open your heart, and what should be the results of such an event? -       Paul and Barnabas rejoiced in trial, and God used the occasion to convert a family to Christ. Is God working similar plans in your times of trial?

He chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. — Ephesians 1:4 The Bible explains that believers have been freely and generously chosen by God. This choosing is not based on our appearance, intelligence, personality, status, or anything else. It's not something we earn or deserve. Instead, it's a purely gracious act. God, in his great love, initiates the process of salvation. By his sovereign will and good pleasure, God has decided to save us, making rescue and redemption possible for all who have been made in his image (Genesis 1:26-27). Even though we were ensnared in sin, Jesus died to deliver us from the curse of sin and death to make us holy in God's sight. Being chosen by God is an overwhelming blessing that fills us with humility and helps us see that there is no room for pride or boasting. It also instills in us a sense of security and confidence, recognizing that our salvation is not based on our religious performance. Instead, as God's chosen possession, we belong to him. Body and soul—in life and in death—we are his, and nothing can snatch us from his hand (John 10:28-30). What an exhilarating honor—to be chosen, wanted, and valued by the most significant being in the universe! Gracious God, thank you for choosing us. Thank you for being the author, perfecter, and finisher of our faith. May we live with the assurance that you will complete the good work you have begun in us. For Jesus' sake, Amen.

This sermon was delivered on May 25, 2025 at Antioch Presbyterian Church, a congregation of Calvary Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church in America located in Woodruff, South Carolina. Mr. Joshua Marcus delivered this sermon entitled "Keeping Covenant with a Gracious God" on 2 Chronicles 7:12-14. For more information about Antioch Presbyterian Church, please visit ⁠antiochpca.com⁠ or contact us at ⁠⁠info@antiochpca.com.

Matt 20:1-16

What words best describe God? David, the author of Psalm 86 which inspired the song I share today, and many others would shout their answer, "Gracious!" God is gracious, slow to anger, full of love. Gracious God, which I wrote earlier this year, gives God glory for his compassion and mercy. I trust you will grow in your love for him as you listen.Gracious GodYou are a gracious God, slow to anger, full of love.Your faithfulness endures forever (and ever).Your heart is merciful; your strength beyond compare.Your people rightly fear your name.Chorus:Hear our prayers, Lord! Teach us your ways!Guard our steps for all of our days!And we will praise your name foreverWith undivided hearts. Verse 2:You are a good God, comforting the poor and needy.In their distress they call to you (you answer).Your deeds are marvelous; providing help and granting mercy.Your people rightly trust in you. Verse 3:You, God, deliver us, from every enemy.No foe can stand against; they all fall down before you.Your servants all rejoice; they shout your victory!Your people rightly worship you.©2025 Mike Neifert (Inspired by Psalm 86)

Teaching from Exodus 23:20-33, by Dr Zach Kilpatrick.

A perfect God made a perfect garden. In that perfect garden He set people made perfectly in His image. All was well, until it wasn't. With a bite of fruit sin entered the world. It explains all the brokenness, pain, hardship, and heartache we have experienced since. To understand the brokenness of the world in which we live we have to understand that moment sin entered the world, but we also need to see the extravagant grace of God that meets broken people in their sin. Jump into Genesis 3 with us to see how gruesome sin really is, and how gracious God is to sinners.

What does it mean to live out your faith in a postmodern world? In this sermon from Romans 10, we explore how the gospel is not just a messagebut the message. Discover why confessing Jesus is Lord changes everything, and how your everyday words and actions can carry the good news to others. To catch up on the latest sermons from Deep Creek, go to iTunes, Spotify ordeepcreekanglican.comand check out the website for more info about whats happening. We are a welcoming and growing multigenerational church in Doncaster East in Melbourne with refreshing faith in Jesus Christ. We think that looks like being life-giving to the believer, surprising to the world, and strengthening to the weary and doubting. Transcription Scripture Reading: Romans 10:515 Moses writes this about the righteousness that is by the law. The person who does these things will live by them. But the righteousness that is by faith says, do not say in your heart who will ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down), or who will descend into the deep? (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). But what does it say? The word is near you. It is in your mouth and in your heart. That is the message concerning faith that we proclaim. If you declare with your mouth, Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. As Scripture says, anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile. The same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How then can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written, how beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news. (Romans 10:515, NIV) Thanks, Ange. And good morning and welcome to Deep Creek. My name is Pedram. Please let me know if you would like to be a part of the things on the screen or if you're not, then, well, we find a way to well, we are exploring Finding Faith. And as Leili said, next week is the last session of this Finding Faith series as we explore the faith that we have in this worldnot just at the church, but outside the churchhow we live out our faith as Christians and believers and followers of Jesus Christ. So today, we will explore what it means to live out our faith in the 21st century in a postmodern world, how faith begins, and why sharing the gospel matters to us. I will change. Yeah. All right, so let's pray together. Gracious God, as we open Your Word today, we ask for open hearts and attentive ears. Speak to us through the Scriptures and by Your Spirit. Help us to hear the message of faith, to receive it with trust, and to respond with obedience. In Jesus name we pray. Amen. The Power of Words and the Gospel How the words we hear shape what we do in our daily life. We all have moments when words shape our decisions. In our postmodern world, videos and voices and comments from people in social media and politics, ads and friends, influencers everywherethey influence people (and us) more than we realize. So you scroll through Instagram or Facebook and see an influencer talking about a new smart vacuum, and you weren't planning to buy any. Suddenly you find that the vacuum machine is in your cart. Or during the federal election last year, constant messaging from the candidates begins to shape our thinking and decision through repeated promises of hope and change for the future. Even when shopping, it is often the reviews that we readnot just the product description, but the opinions of othersthat guide our choices. Words shape what we do. Why does this happen? Well, because words carry power. They shape our perception of reality, often without us even realizing it. We believe the words we hear, and belief leads to action and decision. That's exactly the dynamic that Paul is talking about here in Romans chapter 10. He says, How are they to believe in Him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? So the gospel is not just another message among all those messages that we hear from the world. It is the message. It is the message that calls for belief and transformation. And just as we act on the words we trust in everyday life, we act eternally on the words of Christ when we hear them and believe. So what's the difference? The words of an advertiser, influencer, or politician all offer temporary benefits, but the words of Christ offer eternal life to each of us who believes in Jesus. Righteousness by Law vs. Righteousness by Faith In verses 5 to 8, Paul shows us a contrast between law and faith, showing that faith has always been central to a right relationship with God. The laws righteousness is based on doing, but none of us can do it perfectly, right? So the law isn't the problemwe should know that the law is pure and speaks of the holiness of God, and it's not the problem. We are the problem, right? The law reveals God's standard, but it doesn't have the power to fix us. It doesn't matter what age we live in, whether 3,000 years ago or now in the 21st century, the root issue remains the same: our sinful nature. Like an X-ray that shows a broken bone but can't fix it, the law exposes our sin, but can't heal or cleanse it. It tells the truth, but it doesn't change us. Paul points to a better waya righteousness by faith. We don't need to reach up to heaven or down into the grave to find God, because Christ has already come and risen from the dead. The work is done not by humans, but by God Himself. And the good news: The word is near you. You don't need to climb up a ladder to get to God or to somehow become righteous in His eyes. But the gospel is right herein your mouth and in your heartready to be received and to be proclaimed. Belief and Confession So then, in verses 9 to 10, Paul tells us exactly what this message contains. These two verses are among the clearest summaries of the gospel in all of Scriptureif you need a short summary of what the gospel is, here it is. Faith involves both believing and confession. If you look closely, youll notice something fascinating: verse 9 says, If you declare with your mouth, Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. It begins with the mouth and then mentions the heart. But in verse 10 the order is reversed: For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. Why this change? Is it just a stylistic quirk from Paul? I dont think so. I believe it's very intentional, because God wants us to see that true confession is never just about saying the words. It's not about empty repetition or external performance; it's a confession that comes from a deep well of belief in our hearts. The mouth simply gives voice to what the heart holds dear. Jesus Himself said in Luke chapter 6, Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. In other words, if you truly believe deeply and inwardly that Jesus is Lord and that God raised Him from the dead, your mouth will declare it. And that declaration will not be superficial or performativeit will be genuine, it will be worship, it will be a true testimony of a life lived with Jesus. Last Saturday we had a great baptism service at the cathedral, and an Iranian grandmother of four stood publicly to declare her faith in Christ in the liturgy. From the prayer book, there is a part where the priest asks the candidates to make a personal response. He asks her, Do you turn to Christ? And her response was simply, I turn to Christ. I do. It was a short responsejust two wordsbut they were full of meaning. They were the outflow of a heart that had been awakened by grace, transformed by truth, and brought into living faith. It was the visible moment of a mouth declaring what the heart already believed. Jesus Is Lord: A Radical Declaration Well, faith is not only internal trust, nor is it just external words. It is the union of both. To confess Jesus is Lord is to acknowledge His divine authorityHis rightful rule over our lives. Back in the olden days in the Roman Empire, where Caesar was hailed as Lord, to say Jesus is Lord was a bold and radical declaration. Similarly, in our 21st century, declaring Jesus as Lord is still a bold and radical declaration, especially in societies where personal eternity autonomy, success, or political ideologies are treated as ultimate authorities. In a culture where personal autonomy is prized, submitting to the lordship of Christ challenges our self-centeredness and calls us to a life of obedience and trust. To confess Christ as Lord is to say that no one else has the final word over our lives. Only Jesus does. Faith is not private. It's personal, yes, but not hidden. We are all called not only to trust Jesus inwardly, but to declare Him outwardly as well. No One Is Beyond God's Grace Verses 11 to 13 tell us that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Everyonefrom every nation, every language, every social classeveryone. There is no second-class citizen in the Kingdom of God. No one is beyond the reach of the grace of God. Our performance, our past sins, our present failures or whatever may come in the futurenone of these things can exclude us from the offer of salvation through Jesus Christ. All thats required is this: call on the name of the Lord. That's it. Believe in His name. Depend on His mercy. Confess His lordship in your life. But someone might ask: Do I really need faith in God in the 21st century, in this postmodern world? Well, the simple and short answer is yesperhaps now more than ever. We all witnessed during the pandemic how modern advancementsthe technology and knowledge that humans havecannot fill the deepest gaps. And the problem is our sinful nature, and the gap between us and our Creator God. So faith in God speaks directly into those gaps and empty places. It tells the business person that their worth is not based on performance, but on being a beloved child of God. It tells the anxious parents that they are not alone, that there is a faithful Father who sees and cares. It tells the exhausted Nikki nurse on a night shift that she's not carrying the weight by herself. She's not alone. Jesus is present beside every hospital bed, even with her sleeping colleagues. Faith in God in the 21st century is not about rejecting science or hiding from hard questions and complexity in this world. It is about knowing where your true foundation lies. Its about trusting that when everything else feels uncertain, God is still steady. Its about opening our life to the One who brings peace in chaos, hope in sorrow, and purpose in the middle of confusion. It means following Jesus not just in belief, but in everyday actionat work, at home, and in our relationships. It means letting the gospel shape our decisions, our relationships, and how we respond to the challenges of this modern world. The Beautiful Chain of the Gospel Then we see in verses 14 to 15, Paul brings a series of rhetorical questions: to call on Christ, you must believe; to believe, you must hear; to hear, someone must preach; to preach, someone must be sent. Its a beautiful chaina divine sequence that shows how God brings people to faith through the proclamation of the good news (the gospel). This is why the Word of God matters to us in our churches, homes, and neighborhoods. People can't believe in a message they've never heard, can they? And they won't hear unless someone tells them. This is why sharing our faith isn't optional. It's essential. A few years ago, one of my friends was preparing to travel to Iran, and his desire was to carry Bibles with him to share God's Word with friends and family in Iran. But as you know, this is incredibly risky. We searched for a safe way to do it, but every option seemed too dangerous or impossible. Then one of the team members said, Instead of carrying Bibles into the country, why don't you become a living Bible yourself to carry the good news of Jesus? So we paused and prayed for that brotherthat God would protect him, empower him, and bear fruit through him. And God did exactly what we prayed. When he returned, he shared that during that trip he was able to share the gospel with 25 individuals, talking about Jesus and testifying how Jesus had shaped his life. We are the ones who are sent. We are the ones called to speak. And Paul concludes with this: As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news. Well, feet might not be the most glamorous part of our body, but in God's plan, the ones that carry the gospel are beautiful because they bring life and real hope. (The Bible says the gospel brings a living hopeits not a superficial hope.) They bring peace, and they bring change to people's lives. The Word of God will change peoples lives. Living and Sharing the Word So what does this mean for us at Deep Creek, as followers of Jesus? This passage reminds us that the gospel is not just for unbelievers. Yes, it must be preached to those who havent heard, but it remains near to us who believeactive and living in our lives as well. The word that brought us to life is also the word that sustains us and transforms us every day. Faith is not just a private conviction or a one-time decision. It's a daily rhythm of hearing, trusting, confessing, and proclaiming. If the word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart, then our entire life becomes a space where the gospel lives and people can witness that. So let me offer three simple but challenging invitations based on these truths: Faith comes by hearing. That doesn't mean just listening to a sermon on Sunday or going to church once a week. It means creating space daily in our life to hear the Word of Christ. This could be setting aside ten minutes each morning to read Scripture slowly and reflectively. It could mean listening to a podcast that shapes your spiritual life while you're traveling or driving. Or it could be memorizing a passage of Scripture that you carry with you during the week. If we are not hearing the Word, our hearts will start to listen to other messagesthe messages spread everywhere, the ones that form us without us even noticing. It's a good moment to ask ourselves: What am I filling my ears and heart with? Speak the gospel where you are. When we say Jesus is Lord, we are making a claim that confronts every other claim to authoritywhether it's success, family expectations, national identity, or personal autonomy. To confess Christ as Lord is to resist the subtle pull of idols, not just the obvious ones, but even respectable ones like careerism, security, self-actualization, or even ministry success. The challenge for Christians today is not just to preach the gospel from the pulpit, but to speak it in kitchens and on commutes, in cafes, at work, or at the gymflowing from lives shaped by the gospel and submitted to the lordship of Christ. There is a challenge here for many of us: You don't need to be a theologian to share the gospel. Its good to have a solid knowledge of the Word of God, but you just need to be honest and available. Some Christians hesitate to speak because they feel unqualified. I don't have a Master of Divinity or a theology degree, so I don't know how to answer the hard questions. But the people around you don't need perfect answers. They need your real storyyour story of what Jesus has done for you. And you know what? Everyone has a story. Like our services start with every week, everyone has a story, and each story is unique in how God has shaped us through our journey. People love to hear these stories. So when it comes time for a discussion or even a normal conversation, you can talk about your hope, your struggles, your transformation. It gives others permission to wonder, to ask, and to speak. This is a great opportunity for the Holy Spirit to open space for them to explore what Christianity means. Paul doesnt say, How can they hear unless someone perfect speaks or perfect preaches? He says, unless someone is sent. In other words, the qualification is not perfectionit's willingness. God does not choose people because of their ability, but because of their availability. (Are we available for God and ready to share the story we have?) We are all sentnot as experts or theologians, but as witnesses. You may not have all the answers, but you do have a story. As I often say, you are a living testimony to the grace of God. Proclaiming the gospel is not about status or training or having perfect theology; it's just being you and talking about your faith. You can start with very small steps. Offer to pray for someone during the weekif someone shares something with you, say, Can I pray for you about that? Or mention Jesus in your conversations naturally. Share how Scripture encouraged you this week, or how a sermon or a podcast spoke to you. And never underestimate the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will open the way through all those conversations in our daily lifeat our workplaces, in our families and relationships. Let confession shape our whole life. When Paul says we are to confess Jesus is Lord, he doesn't mean doing it only once at conversion or when we get baptized. He means that our whole life is to be shaped by that confession. The more we confess Christ with our mouth, the more our hearts are aligned to His lordship. And the more our hearts are rooted in Him, the more naturally our mouth will proclaim His goodness. Our whole life is to be shaped by that confession. It will change how we handle money, how we forgive others, how we prioritize our time, how we treat others, how we speak to our children, and how we endure suffering. In practice, it could look like this: Choosing integrity at the workplace, even when it costs you. Serving at church or in your neighborhood without recognition. Staying faithful in a hard relationship. Speaking truth when it's unpopular. This kind of life is not loud, but it is powerful. And it begins with the daily decision to saynot just with your mouth, but with your whole lifethat Jesus is Lord. The word is near us not only when we first believed, but today, in the 21st centuryin this season, in your questions, in your complexities at work, in your family, in your relationships, in your fears. God has placed His Word in our hearts to anchor us. He has placed it on our lips so that others may know Him too. When we embody the Word we have believed, we become the beautiful feet that Paul speaks ofthe ones who carry good news wherever we go. And we carry the testimony and the story that we each have.

Jonah's story isn't just about God's mercy toward a wicked city—it's about His mercy toward a stubborn prophet. While Nineveh's deliverance grabs the headlines, the final scene zooms in on Jonah's heart, exposing a deeper struggle that echoes in all of us. This week, we're asking the piercing question Jonah wrestled with, and we must as well: Are you okay with God loving your enemies? To support this ministry, visit www.waynesborofm.com/give  

Praying for Wisdom to Our Gracious God. James 1:5-11. Pastor Wade Thomas

Resh—Here we see where the Psalmist is totally dependent upon Divine Grace as he cries out to God who is faithful to keep His promises to His people.

Don't ever think that God was not gracious to Israel in the Old Testament, He was nothing by gracious and kind, and longsuffering toward them. And it was in the midst of their rebellion against Him that He gave them the promise of the New Covenant, in which He perfect all of the promises of it Himself, for their sakes. He didn't say that He had HAD with them, but instead, I will be gracious to you. "For I will be merciful to your unrighteousness." That's grace!

Throughout the ages, our God has repeatedly proven himself to be merciful and gracious, forgiving sin, and blessing abundantly. But what happens when we meet an Israelite prophet who doesn't like that about God and decides to rebel instead of obey when the Lord calls Him? Come find out this and way more as we start our new series through God's word in the book Jonah — The Prodigal Prophet of a Gracious God. To support this ministry, visit www.waynesborofm.com/give  

Join us every Sunday at 10am at River of Life church in Guilderland, NY Find us online at facebook.com/riveralbany or riveralbany.com. Podcasts of the Sunday message can be found on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, YT music, or Soundcloud.

We closed out our series through Jonah by looking at the similarities between Jonah's story and the Story of the Two Brothers found in Luke 15. For more information visit ChristCommunity.Life

Scripture and Questions for Study and Reflection1. When you think of the word "goodness," what comes to mind? How would you define God's goodness versus how the world defines goodness?2. Read Matthew 5: 1-12 (The Beatitudes). Which of these blessings stands out to you the most? How do these characteristics reflect the goodness we are called to live out?3. Jesus calls His followers “the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5: 13). What do you think He meant by this? How does salt relate to the way we live out our faith?4. Jesus also calls us “the light of the world” (Matthew 5: 14-16). What are some ways we can be a light in our daily lives?5. In verse 16, Jesus says that our good works should glorify God. How do we make sure our actions point to God and not just to ourselves?6. In what ways can we preserve (like salt) and illuminate (like light) God's truth and love in our communities?7. Jesus calls us to let our goodness shine in a way that draws others to God. What's one practical step you can take this week to reflect Christ's goodness to those around you?8. What do you need from God to live as salt and light this week?9. Who in your life needs to experience God's goodness, and how can you be part of that?Prayer for the Week:Gracious God, You have called us to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Help us to live out Your goodness in all that we do. May our words be seasoned with grace, our actions reflect Your love and our lives shine brightly for Your glory. When the world feels dark, let us be a light. When others are in need, help us to be generous. When we face challenges, remind us that Your goodness sustains us. May we bring flavor to a world that longs for hope and shines with the love of Christ wherever we go. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Sermon - March 16, 2025

God is gracious and merciful to those who come to Him by faith

This week in part 6 of our study though the book of Jonah. We spent time learning how God was being gracious with Jonah. Jonah is mad at God that Nineveh was not judged, while not understanding that he was just as deserving of God's judgement.For more info visit ChristCommunity.Life

We are continuing in the series of learning what God is like. Today we look at how He is gracious.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 24: The GospelScriptures referenced:The whole book of JonahEphesians 2:3-4Exodus 33:18Exodus 34:6-7John 14:9Psalm 86:15Psalm 103:8Psalm 111:4Psalm 145:8-211 Peter 5:7Psalm 55:22John 3:16John 14:6Nehemiah 9:16-21, 30-312 Chronicles 30:9Exodus 22:25-27Hebrews 4:16Matthew 23:12Luke 14:11James 4:6Proverbs 3:5-6Psalm 107:6, 13, 19, 282 Chronicles 33:1-13Joel 2:12-14Galatians 5:22-23Feel free to email the podcast at ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com, and we will respond as soon as we are able!I WANT TO BE DISCIPLEDI am on staff with another ministry called Mentoring Men for the Master (M3). M3 is a discipleship ministry; so, if you are interested in being discipled and having someone come alongside you to invest in you and your walk with Jesus, or if you would like to do this in someone else's life, feel free to email us at info@mentoringmen.net. You can also check out M3's website by clicking "I want to be discipled". Also note that despite the ministry's name, M3 disciples both men and women; so, the offer is open to all!I WANT TO SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTERIf you would like to sign up to receive newsletter updates, simply click "I want to sign up for the newsletter" and fill out the form. Also, feel free to check out our most recent newsletter.I WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking "I want to support the podcast". I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!...

In part 5 of our study through Jonah, we spent time looking at how God used Jonah's minimal effort to show mercy to Nineveh. We also looked at Evil and how it effects God's Shalom.For more information visit ChristCommunity.life

Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025Welcome to Calvary Lutheran Church ELCA. Perham, Minnesota.Gracious God, out of your love and mercy you breathed into dust the breath of life, creating us to serve you and our neighbors. Call forth our prayers and acts of kindness, and strengthen us to face our mortality with confidence in the mercy of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. AmTUESDAY WORSHIP*9:00AM Arvig TV Channel 14Egiving https://secure.myvanco.com/YMVS/homeWebsite: https://calvaryperham.com/Facebook: / calvaryperham YouTube: / @calvaryperham Podcast on Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/7hbXujmmTtLlWAxzIzpUZo?si=55a2f1977c1c4d22Podcast public sitehttps://rss.com/podcasts/april16th2023/Lakes 99.5 Radio Sundays at Ten Thirty AM

As we continued our series through Jonah, we spent time examining the grace of God shown to man as far down as he could be. God met him where he was at, as he does with us.For more information visit ChristCommunity.life

Jonah 1:17-2:10 (NASB) 17 And the Lord designated a great fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the stomach of the fish for three days and three nights. Jonah's Prayer1 Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the stomach of the fish, 2 and he said, “I called out of my distress to the Lord,And He answered me.I called for help from the depth of Sheol;You heard my voice.3 For You threw me into the deep,Into the heart of the seas,And the current flowed around me.All Your breakers and waves passed over me.4 So I said, ‘I have been cast out of Your sight.Nevertheless I will look again toward Your holy temple.'5 Water encompassed me to the point of death.The deep flowed around me,Seaweed was wrapped around my head.6 I descended to the base of the mountains.The earth with its bars was around me forever,But You have brought up my life from the pit, Lord my God.7 While I was fainting away,I remembered the Lord,And my prayer came to You,Into Your holy temple.8 Those who are followers of worthless idolsAbandon their faithfulness,9 But I will sacrifice to YouWith a voice of thanksgiving.That which I have vowed I will pay.Salvation is from the Lord.” 10 Then the Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah up onto the dry land. 1) God's Rescue (1:17)2) Jonah's Prayer to God (2:1-9)3) God's Answer (2:10)  

In part 3 of our study through the book of Jonah, we spent time better understanding how we view ourselves can be shaped by the Gospel. We also found comfort knowing that God is at work within storms and our rebellion.For more information visit ChristCommunity.Life

Jonah 4:1-11 What happens at the end of a championship game? A Gracious God and Merciful What did Jonah know about God? It Is Better to Die Why was Jonah angry about this? Do You Do Well? How did God want Jonah to respond to it?

As we continue thought the book of Jonah, we spent time today looking at Jonah's storm and how the sailors responded. We also looked at the storms in our lives, and why we experience them.For more information visit ChristCommunity.Life

Read Mark 2: 1-12.1. Share a time when someone's love and support helped you in a difficult season.How did their actions impact you?2. If you were the paralytic in the story, what emotions do you think you wouldhave felt as your friends carried you to Jesus?3. The paralytic was unable to get to Jesus on his own. How does this reflect ourspiritual condition before Christ?4. Who do you know that may need to be “carried” to Jesus through prayer,encouragement, or an invitation to faith?5. The paralytic's friends faced obstacles (the crowd, the roof) but didn't give up.What are some common obstacles that keep people from coming to Jesustoday?6. Jesus saw their faith. What does that teach us about the role of community inspiritual transformation?7. What are some ways we can actively bring others to Jesus, even when it'sinconvenient or difficult?8. How does this story challenge our priorities when praying for ourselves orothers?9. What does this passage teach us about the depth of Jesus' grace?10. When the man was healed, the crowd glorified God. How does God use changedlives to bring others to Him?11. In what ways has God's grace changed your life, and how can you share thattestimony with others?12. How can our church be a place where people experience both the power offriendship and the grace of Jesus?13. Who in your life might need to experience the love of Jesus through yourfriendship?14. What is one practical step you can take this week to be a faithful friend whobrings others closer to Christ?15. If you had been in that house, watching this miracle unfold, how do you think itwould have changed your faith?Prayer for the Week:Gracious God, Thank You for the friends who lift us up when we are weak and for thegrace that meets us where we are. Help us to be the kind of people who carry othersto You, tearing down any barriers that stand in the way of Your love. When we feelhelpless, remind us that Your grace is enough. When we see others in need, give usthe courage to act in faith.May our lives be a testimony of the love that carries and the grace that changes.Lead us this week to walk in compassion, boldness, and gratitude for all You havedone.In Jesus' name, Amen.

Rev. Brian Habig

We started our new series Gracious God, which is a study through the book of Jonah. We see that God shows grace to the undeserving, our enemy, and us as well.For more information visit ChristCommunity.Life

https://media.urclearning.org/audio/janbazian/msj-2025-01-26_acts-13-13-43.mp3

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comMatthew 12The opposition of the Pharisees has been ramping up through Jesus' ministry and takes center stage in this chapter. Christ's disciples eat grain heads on the Sabbath, and the Pharisees take the opportunity to accuse them of sin. Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath, and the Pharisees conspire to destroy Him! Jesus heals a man of demonic possession, and the Pharisees accuse Him of having a demon. All along Jesus puts them in their place. His disciples violated no law by eating on the Sabbath, for Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath! It is lawful to do good on the Sabbath, including miraculously healing a lame man. Jesus works with the Spirit, not with the devil, and all who suggest such will be eternally judged for the sin of blasphemy.   Jesus goes on to say that speaking against the Spirit is worthy of eternal punishment. These evil accusations of the Pharisees indicate rotten, jealous, selfish hearts. He also exclaims that many nations of old repented on less evidence than Jesus was providing, indicating the Pharisees are far from God. We need to be humble enough to look at the Pharisees and ask, “How have I been like them?” Jesus is worthy to be worshiped, honored, and followed. We must love Him from the heart. We must love and serve His disciples as our family in the body of Christ. He defends and loves His saints. We should not be attacking or accusing others. We must be faithful supporters of one another in Christ.  Patient and Gracious God, please bear with us as we grow in our faith. Help us purge the spirit of the Pharisees in our hearts and lives. Give us wisdom to listen, to learn, and to love. And extinguish in us any desire to immediately question, judge, or attack our Lord or anyone in His family of believers. Humble us to hear His call to repentance and to respond. May the unclean spirits that flee from us by your grace not return to find a place of abode in our hearts and relationships ever again. Thought Questions:  -       What does it mean for Jesus to tell the Pharisees, “I desire compassion and not sacrifice”? How important is compassion in evaluating others? -       If Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath, eternal God, and Healer of others, what place should He hold in your life today and what does that look like? -       How important should the Christian family be to us? If we are all Jesus' “brother and sister and mother,” how do you demonstrate that in service?

Many of us here know the anxiety that goes into planning a wedding. Whether large or small there are many variables. Between people, flowers, site for wedding and reception, food & drink, etc. In the end we find out that something will not be just the way we wanted it. My parents, whose wedding was on May 9, 1959, had the experience of running out of food and drink. My dad grew up out in the country, thus many of his family and friends were farmers and it took them longer to be able to get to the reception which was about 40 minutes or so away. My parents both had large families, thus what they had budgeted didn't seem to be covering. Someone who's family my mother lived with her senior year in high school, after her parents had divorced, provided funds to keep things going. My parents were in a bind and Elmer came through to keep things going as if nothing had had been wrong. Weddings are always hopefully joyous occasions, but with so many variables, something is bound to go wrong. Thus Elmer, behind the scenes came through and my parent's party went on. Does this story sound a little familiar to the story that we heard in our Gospel lesson for today? Jesus came through to provide what was needed for the celebration to go on just as Elmer did. Of course he is not Jesus, but Elmer gave of himself and did not make some big announcement as to what he had done. Neither did Jesus as there were very few people who knew the wine was replenished. When things don't go right at events, the planners often feel shame when they can't turn it around. Elmer knew that and of course Jesus did too. I want to say it is a heart thing and in a sense a humble act. Elmer and Jesus did not want shame to come upon the planners nor did they want to be recognized. Because of the relationship that my mother had built with Elmer, he felt that he wanted to support her. While my mother lived in their home she took care of their kids while she was finishing high school. Their children who are still living, remember my mother. With Jesus, I wonder if part of it is the relationship with his mother as she is the one who informed him that the wine had run out. We don't know how well he knew the couple who got married, but he and his disciples attended it. This celebration often lasted a week. Thus, it was quite a chore to keep food and drink going, let alone the cost. Nonetheless, Jesus felt the need to allow the celebration to continue without a hitch with the replenished wine. This was his first sign as John labels Jesus' work. So many other signs were done, but were more public and dealt with healings and raisings, etc. This first sign was done in a common ordinary setting so the celebration of this relationship could continue. It was also done to show his disciples who he was, and it says they believed after they saw the sign done. Jesus' mother seemed to know what he was capable of as she told the workers to do whatever he told them to. Even after he was questioning why he should get involved with it. Signs in John were about revealing Jesus' glory, they were to help people see who he was, the Messiah. He did not do them to impress people, but to help them believe. Even in this first sign it was because he cared about the people and did not want them to be shamed. This is what we call grace. He didn't have to do it, but he did out of love for them. When you think about this, it is a model for his disciples, to do acts out of love, out of grace. Jesus had no real obligation, maybe in a sense to his mother, but not to the couple getting married and those who were in charge of the celebration. From JB Phillips translation we hear from John chapter 1:14-18 So the word of God became a human being and lived among us. We saw his splendor (the splendor as of a father's only son), full of grace and truth. And it was about him that John stood up and testified, exclaiming: “Here is the one I was speaking about when I said that although he would come after me he would always be in front of me; for he existed before I was born!” Indeed, every one of us has shared in his riches—there is a grace in our lives because of his grace. For while the Law was given by Moses, love and truth came through Jesus Christ. It is true that no one has ever seen God at any time. Yet the divine and only Son, who lives in the closest intimacy with the Father, has made him known. So, in this first sign in the Gospel of John, Jesus is modeling grace. This was a model for his disciples, for you and me. Jesus is already setting the tone and direction for his ministry and ultimate act of grace, his death and resurrection. We see and experience grace from Jesus through others. Without this, it would be difficult to share grace if we have not experienced it ourselves. I can say with complete certainty that everyone here in this room has received grace. Number one, our baptism is a means of grace. We have received this gift as infants or adults. As members of the beloved community, we are called to model how we share grace, as Jesus models here in our gospel lesson as well as throughout the Bible. We learn how to share or model grace by experiencing it through others. In our country and here at Faith things are changing. Through any transition grace is needed.  As changes occur, we are called to respond and not react to them. There may be times that we need to step back and clear out as much of the anxiety as we can in order for grace to flow through us. I am not talking about graciously accepting everything as it is. What I am talking about is being graceful in our responses. When I hear the word reaction, I often think of no thought behind our action. In order for grace to flow through us, we need to take our anxiety to Jesus. This will allow us to think and consult with Jesus before responding. There will be anxiety. Jesus graciously walks with us and stands ready to listen to our anxieties. This is the grace that Jesus has modeled and continues to model for us through others and is ready to share with us. Once we have realized this grace and given our anxieties over to Jesus, we are ready to make graceful responses to the changes that we encounter. Just as Elmer and Jesus modeled grace, we are then called to model that grace for others. This is how people see Jesus at work within us and may be able to believe as the disciples did that day, when Jesus shared grace when he performed his first sign. Let us pray: Gracious God, you sent Jesus to model and share your graciousness. As we have read again the story of Jesus' first sign we see your grace modeled for us. We daily ask and receive your grace, may your Holy Spirit help us to share your grace with others that more may come to believe and continue to share your grace. In Jesus' name, Amen

We will explore the first description of God's character and the most-often quoted passage in the Bible, Exodus 34:6-7. In these two verses we learn that all of God's actions are an expression of five unique attributes.

Pastor Wayne Van Gelderen shares biblical truth that will bring hope and comfort in these uncertain days. May we draw closer to God through this time and impact those around us for eternity. https://fallsbaptist.org https://baptistcollege.org https://www.theegeneration.org https://ontovictorypress.com If you'd like to support this ministry - https://fallsbaptist.org/give/

January 16, 2025 Today's Reading: Catechism: The Fourth CommandmentDaily Lectionary: Ezekiel 38:1-23; Romans 7:1-20“Honor your father and your mother.”In the Name of Jesus. Amen.Luther's Small Catechism says, “We should fear and love God so that we do not despise or anger our parents and other authorities, but honor them, serve and obey them, love and cherish them.” Parents are special and distinct neighbors who serve in a vocation backed by the divine command to “honor.” We don't just love our parents. We extend them honor differing from other neighbors we're called to love, yes. But honor goes to the parents. The Fourth Commandment prioritizes parents above others, as Luther explains in his Large Catechism: “It is a far higher thing to honor someone than to love someone, because honor includes not only love, but also modesty, humility, and submission to a majesty hidden in them” (LC 4:106).Parents are fallible, with sins requiring a Savior. Children see this and so suffer the temptation to despise their parents and rebel against their wisdom. The Old Adam drives us to think we're always smarter and stronger than others, which is another reason to repent. We should repent for relying on the flesh, trusting in ourselves, and shirking advice at every turn. No matter a parent's sins, they still inhabit a vocation established by God deserving honor based on the Word. That's a crucial point. Parents are due honor not because they're flawless. We honor them according to God's Word, calling us to see them for what they are, in Luther's words, “the most precious treasure on earth” (LC 4: 109). Luther's meaning of this commandment extends beyond the parental office to include “other authorities.” Teachers, policemen, magistrates, and principals serve in vocations requiring faithful obedience. We may not like it when the police officer gives us a speeding ticket, but he's enforcing a law to curb us from sin that could hurt others. The teacher and principal may be hard on a student when desiring the best alongside the father and mother. Such authorities work in tandem with the parental office with the hope children grow, we pray, into faithful, God-fearing adults. Such vocations, though good and beneficial, are often abused by sinners. Still, we live by the Word and God's call to recognize those authorities He has established and thank Him for faithful servants. When we fail in our vocations, whether parent or child, the Gospel reminds us we're not saved by our stations in life. We're saved only by Jesus, which is the comfort we need while laboring in those blessed vocations of God. In the Name of Jesus. Amen.Gracious God, Your Ten Commands are just and good. Grant us faith always to hear your Word and keep it. Guard us from evil and harm and turn us to your mercy that we would find comfort and peace in the love you have on account of Christ crucified and risen from the dead. In Jesus' Name, we pray. Amen.-Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, associate pastor and headmaster at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.What makes a church "good?" Come join the fictional family as they test out eight different churches in their brand-new town and answer this question along the way. Will the Real Church Please Stand Up? by Matthew Richard, now available from Concordia Publishing House.

Know . . . that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments. — Deuteronomy 7:9 Our God is love, and he loves us. God cares, protects, and provides for us. God described himself to Moses as “the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin” (Exodus 34:6-7). God's love is sure, extravagant, dynamic, radical, and eternal. Nothing is better than knowing we are loved by God. It is lovely to start each day knowing we are loved by God and to think of his love throughout the day, no matter what comes our way. Love anchors us. Experiencing God's love has an extraordinary effect on how we relate to others. Love gives us a testimony to share with others. The way we treat one another comes from God's love in us. The Spirit of God guides us to be patient and kind, not boastful, not dishonoring others, not self-seeking, not easily angered, not keeping a list of wrongs. Love “rejoices with the truth . . . always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13). God loves us even as he loves his own Son. Love is forever. Where are you experiencing God's great love in your life? Gracious God, thank you for your covenant of love and for sending Jesus to pay the penalty for our sins as a sacrifice of love. I desire to love and live for you. Amen.

“See, I have given you this land. Go in and take possession of the land the Lord swore he would give to your fathers—to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob—and to their descendants after them.” — Deuteronomy 1:8 Every new year brings new opportunities and challenges. May the Lord prepare us to receive something new this year to improve our lives. Many people begin the year by making New Year's resolutions and promises, but that approach rarely works well. To receive from God, we must believe that he has prepared something for us. We need to dismiss thoughts of not being worthy or deserving of God's blessings. We may imagine and speculate what God will do for us, but we do not really know (see 1 Corinthians 2:9). To receive from God, we must believe he will do as he says. We cannot lean into our own understanding or dwell too much on the past because we might miss seeing God's hand at work (Isaiah 43:19). When God nudges us forward, we cannot allow fear to keep us in our comfort zone or be satisfied with our current situation. We cannot talk ourselves out of what God wants to do. Let us remember our history with God and be ready to receive. We can trust him and respond in obedience. We can ask the Holy Spirit to help us receive God's blessings in this new year. God wants us to step out and receive the blessings he has in store for us. Gracious God, as we begin this new year, we want to be ready for whatever you have prepared. Awaken us each day to the newness of life in you. Amen.

Hey Mama,    Sometimes we really get stuck in feeling like we have failed at Motherhood. The longer we leave this shame and guilt unaddressed, the farther we can distance ourselves from our Heavenly Father.   Have you been avoiding time with God on purpose? Do you find you tend to pencil in extracurricular commitments for your children before you make time for a Bible study or a small group? Sometimes when you have distanced yourself from the Lord, it can be difficult or embarrassing to approach Him again.    Well sister, the good news is that God, through His graciousness draws us to Himself. So even when you may not feel like God is “there,” He is waiting for you to draw near. Listen in today to learn just how our gracious God provides the freedom and security we crave as moms from our guilt and shame.   Link to sign up for the free STRESS LESS WORKSHOP: https://stresslessworkshop.gr-site.com/    For His Glory, Christen   I would love to hear from you!  >>Leave a Review >>Connect with me:   Sign Up for Manage In The Moment Coaching Call: https://bit.ly/ManageStressInTheMoment   Email me : naturalwellnessforbusymoms@gmail.com  Sign Up to Become an Insider: https://bit.ly/naturalwellnessinsider  Join Our FREE Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1789472588229094  >>Find Related Products Here: https://bit.ly/m/Natural-Wellness-for-Busy-Moms  >> These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. >>I make a small commission when using the links above to purchase items.

The Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. — Isaiah 30:18 I often picture God sitting on an ornate throne made of rare metals, adorned with priceless jewels, and upholstered in the finest fabric. Some Bible passages portray God in a similar way. But, what if, for a moment, we close our eyes, quiet our souls, and imagine God differently? What if God—still in all his glory and splendor—isn't sitting in lavishness associated with royalty but instead is sitting at the corner booth in a local coffee shop, or on the couch in your family room, eagerly waiting for you? What if God, who is so excited to see you, leaps from his seated position and embraces you like a friend who longs to hear how you are doing and what you have been up to? What if God, in both his divine and human nature, gives you his undivided attention as you share with him your life, your story, your joys, and your concerns? What if . . . ? How do you see God today? Or, maybe a better question: How do you need to see God today? The beauty of God is that he is not only the King of all creation but also the attentive friend who is always near. Gracious God, thank you for being the ruler of all things and the dear friend who is always present with us. Thank you for the ways you show your compassion, and help us today to share that same care with the people you place on our path. Amen.

Anxiety among adolescents is prevalent today. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 38% of girls and 26% of boys aged 13 to 17 experience some form of anxiety disorder. Our guest today, Pastor Josh Weidmann, author of the book The End of Anxiety, focuses on how anxiety can lead us to greater trust in God and ultimately glorify Him, which is the end purpose of our struggle with anxiety. While we may not eliminate anxiety, we can learn to manage it effectively.  While anxiety may be a lifelong struggle for some, it can also be a tool for spiritual growth and deeper intimacy with God. By addressing anxiety with biblical principles, individuals can find peace and purpose in their struggles. In this episode, guest Pastor Josh Weidmann discussed: His personal journey with anxiety The purpose of anxiety  Practical steps towards healing and hope Other resources: The End of Anxiety: The Biblical Prescription for Overcoming Fear, Worry, and Panic by Josh Weidmann Honest to God: Becoming Brutally Honest with a Gracious God by Josh Weidmann Special Event: Christmas Hope Mom, you are not alone!  Join our private Facebook group for more encouragement and community: https://bit.ly/widowmom  For more information and helpful resources, check our website: PerspectiveMinistries.org & follow us on Instagram @PerspectiveMinistries.

"We all love that God is compassionate and gracious, but what about when God is compassionate and gracious to people you hate?" John Mark walks us through the passages demonstrating the scandalous compassion and graciousness of God, inviting us to imitate God by extending compassion and grace to others in our lives. Key Scripture Passages: Exodus 34v6-7, Jonah 1-4, Luke 17v11-19, Luke 18v35-43, Luke 15v11-32, Luke 6v35-36This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Carma from Columbus, Ohio; Sam from Sioux Center, Iowa; Kathy from Coupeville, Washington; Joshua from Holt, Michigan; and Jeannette from Chichester, West Sussex. Thank you all so much!If you'd like to pay it forward and contribute toward future resources, you can learn more at practicingtheway.org/give.