Podcasts about groaning

"Groaning for New Creation" Romans 8:18-25, The Rev. Dcn. Ashley Davis.

Father Anthony with Cristina and Tony regroup today after the weekend to discuss the goings on, and people in the Parish.  Father greets everyone and chats a bit about his past week and the feeling of being just being overly tired and hot, mentioning that he felt some frustration with not finding the rest he was looking for during his recent private retreat.  After prayer, he discusses the Saint of the Day, St. Kateri Tekakwitha, the first Native American to be canonized.  He shares details of her life and how she dedicated her life to Jesus being committed to living a pure and prayerful life, reminding us that we should all be receptive to the inner workings of God's spirit, mindful that this will lead us to the inner peace we yearn.  Father connects this to the past Sunday's reading that clearly references suffering and groaning.  The trio discusses suffering and acknowledges that all suffer and no one escapes it and all groan about their sufferings.  Father points out that inner peace and joy may still exists while we suffer and groan but to recall that Jesus never promised us happiness and that we should choose internal joy over fleeting happiness.        St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish

Why did God give believers the gift of speaking in tongues?Concerning Tongues: The Promise of the Father and the Power of the Saints by Curry R. Blake is an extensive biblical teaching on the Holy Spirit, the baptism of the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues, spiritual prayer, interpretation, intercession, and Spirit-filled Christian living.Speaking in tongues remains one of the most discussed and debated spiritual gifts within Christianity. Some believers regard it as an essential part of Spirit-filled life. Others question its purpose, its proper use, or whether it continues today.In this audiobook, Curry R. Blake presents his biblical understanding of the subject through Scripture, practical teaching, historical examples, personal testimonies, and ministry experience.The teaching explores:• The promise of the Father• The baptism of the Holy Spirit• Speaking in other tongues• Tongues as a sign• Direct prayer and communication with God• Tongues for personal edification• Tongues as spiritual rest and refreshing• Tongues and faith• Tongues and interpretation• Tongues in corporate worship• Tongues and intercession• Praying when you do not know what to pray• Groaning and travailing in prayer• Tongues of men and angels• Diversities and different kinds of tongues• Developing a consistent spiritual prayer life• Practical application of spiritual giftsThe audiobook distinguishes between private prayer in tongues and the public use of tongues within a church gathering.Private prayer is examined in connection with worship, spiritual strengthening, edification, and intercession.Public tongues are considered alongside biblical instructions concerning interpretation, order, and the edification of the gathered Church.Scriptural passages examined include Luke 11, John 7, John 14–16, Acts 1–2, Mark 16, Romans 8, 1 Corinthians 2, 1 Corinthians 12–14, Isaiah 28, and Jude 20.A central emphasis of this teaching is that the Word and the Spirit should operate together. Biblical teaching without spiritual life can become dry, while spiritual activity without scriptural foundation can move into confusion and excess.This audiobook is designed for believers seeking a deeper prayer life, Christians studying spiritual gifts, pastors, prayer groups, intercessors, Bible-study fellowships, Pentecostal and Charismatic believers, and anyone sincerely examining the biblical teaching on tongues.Speaking in tongues remains a subject on which Christian traditions disagree. This audiobook presents Curry R. Blake's interpretation and ministry perspective. Listeners are encouraged to study the Scriptures prayerfully and examine all teaching in the light of God's Word.GET THE EBOOKGoogle Play Bookshttps://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=fUvaEQAAQBAJOtakada Christian Bookshophttps://shop.otakada.org/product/concerning-tongues-the-promise-of-the-father-and-the-power-of-the-saints-by-curry-r-blake/Continue your discipleship journey:https://movement.otakada.orghttps://www.otakada.orgThe promise is of the Father.The power is of the Holy Spirit.The responsibility belongs to the saints.Concerning Tongues Curry R Blake; Curry Blake audiobook; speaking in tongues explained; biblical teaching on speaking in tongues; baptism of the Holy Spirit; baptism in the Holy Ghost; praying in tongues benefits; prayer in the Spirit; how to speak in tongues; diversities of tongues; tongues and interpretation; tongues for personal edification; spiritual gifts Christian teaching; Holy Spirit Christian audiobook; Romans 8 intercession; Jude 20 praying in the Holy Ghost; 1 Corinthians 12 spiritual gifts; 1 Corinthians 14 tongues; Pentecostal audiobook; Charismatic Christian teaching; Spirit filled Christian life; promise of the Father; power of the saints #SpeakingInTongues#CurryBlake#ChristianAudiobook#HolySpirit#PrayingInTongues#BaptismOfTheHolySpirit#SpiritualGifts#PrayerInTheSpirit#Pentecost#BookOfActs

Why did God give believers the gift of speaking in tongues?Concerning Tongues: The Promise of the Father and the Power of the Saints by Curry R. Blake is an extensive biblical teaching on the Holy Spirit, the baptism of the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues, spiritual prayer, interpretation, intercession, and Spirit-filled Christian living.Speaking in tongues remains one of the most discussed and debated spiritual gifts within Christianity. Some believers regard it as an essential part of Spirit-filled life. Others question its purpose, its proper use, or whether it continues today.In this audiobook, Curry R. Blake presents his biblical understanding of the subject through Scripture, practical teaching, historical examples, personal testimonies, and ministry experience.The teaching explores:• The promise of the Father• The baptism of the Holy Spirit• Speaking in other tongues• Tongues as a sign• Direct prayer and communication with God• Tongues for personal edification• Tongues as spiritual rest and refreshing• Tongues and faith• Tongues and interpretation• Tongues in corporate worship• Tongues and intercession• Praying when you do not know what to pray• Groaning and travailing in prayer• Tongues of men and angels• Diversities and different kinds of tongues• Developing a consistent spiritual prayer life• Practical application of spiritual giftsThe audiobook distinguishes between private prayer in tongues and the public use of tongues within a church gathering.Private prayer is examined in connection with worship, spiritual strengthening, edification, and intercession.Public tongues are considered alongside biblical instructions concerning interpretation, order, and the edification of the gathered Church.Scriptural passages examined include Luke 11, John 7, John 14–16, Acts 1–2, Mark 16, Romans 8, 1 Corinthians 2, 1 Corinthians 12–14, Isaiah 28, and Jude 20.A central emphasis of this teaching is that the Word and the Spirit should operate together. Biblical teaching without spiritual life can become dry, while spiritual activity without scriptural foundation can move into confusion and excess.This audiobook is designed for believers seeking a deeper prayer life, Christians studying spiritual gifts, pastors, prayer groups, intercessors, Bible-study fellowships, Pentecostal and Charismatic believers, and anyone sincerely examining the biblical teaching on tongues.Speaking in tongues remains a subject on which Christian traditions disagree. This audiobook presents Curry R. Blake's interpretation and ministry perspective. Listeners are encouraged to study the Scriptures prayerfully and examine all teaching in the light of God's Word.GET THE EBOOKGoogle Play Bookshttps://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=fUvaEQAAQBAJOtakada Christian Bookshophttps://shop.otakada.org/product/concerning-tongues-the-promise-of-the-father-and-the-power-of-the-saints-by-curry-r-blake/Continue your discipleship journey:https://movement.otakada.orghttps://www.otakada.orgThe promise is of the Father.The power is of the Holy Spirit.The responsibility belongs to the saints.Concerning Tongues Curry R Blake; Curry Blake audiobook; speaking in tongues explained; biblical teaching on speaking in tongues; baptism of the Holy Spirit; baptism in the Holy Ghost; praying in tongues benefits; prayer in the Spirit; how to speak in tongues; diversities of tongues; tongues and interpretation; tongues for personal edification; spiritual gifts Christian teaching; Holy Spirit Christian audiobook; Romans 8 intercession; Jude 20 praying in the Holy Ghost; 1 Corinthians 12 spiritual gifts; 1 Corinthians 14 tongues; Pentecostal audiobook; Charismatic Christian teaching; Spirit filled Christian life; promise of the Father; power of the saints #SpeakingInTongues#CurryBlake#ChristianAudiobook#HolySpirit#PrayingInTongues#BaptismOfTheHolySpirit#SpiritualGifts#PrayerInTheSpirit#Pentecost#BookOfActs

When life is hard, where do you find hope?In Romans 8:18–30, Pastor Epi Garcia reminds us that our present suffering is not the end of the story. While we live in a broken world filled with pain, disappointment, and uncertainty, God is still at work. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we have the promise of His presence today and the certainty of future glory with Christ.This message explores how creation groans, believers groan, and even the Holy Spirit intercedes for us as we wait for the day when God makes all things new. You'll also discover the true meaning of Romans 8:28 and how God works through every circumstance—not necessarily to make life easier, but to make us more like Jesus.

Join us for a message from God's Word.

This sermon was preached by Derek Overstreet on July 12th, 2026.

TODAY'S TREASUREThis hope will not disappoint us, because God's love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.Romans 5:5 CSBSend us a comment!Support the show

ROMANS 8:26-27 - The Spirit's Groaning - The Anatomy Of Prayer Pastor Dan Layman Download

On Sunday, we moved through the penultimate part of our series in Romans 8 as we unpacked what the Apostle Paul has to say about one of life's universal experience – suffering. This is a call to live as people who live with a future hope in our present sufferings.Romans 8:18-28

Send us Fan MailRomans 8:18–30: Suffering, Creation's Groaning, the Spirit's Help, and Predestination Ken Corkins and pastor Rock Ellison record season 18, episode 18 of Pondering the Bible after Vacation Bible School and continue their study of Romans, reading and discussing Romans 8:18–30 (RSV). They explain Paul's teaching that present suffering is not comparable to future glory, using childbirth as an illustration, and connect human struggle with sin to the promise of renewed bodies. They discuss how the fall affected all creation, which now “groans” for renewal, citing Revelation's new heaven and new earth and supporting the idea with 2 Peter 3:13 and Jeremiah 12. They clarify hope as patience in what is unseen, and explain the Spirit's intercession in prayer, rejecting claims that speaking in tongues is required for salvation. They interpret Romans 8:28 as God bringing good from suffering for those called to His purpose, then address foreknowledge and predestination, contrasting Calvinism and Arminianism and arguing the terms imply God's prior knowledge rather than coercion. They plan to finish Romans 8:31–39 next week. 00:00 Welcome and Setup 00:34 Romans 8 Reading 02:57 Suffering and Glory 06:05 Creation Awaits Renewal 09:36 Groaning for Redemption 12:15 Saved by Hope 15:05 Spirit Helps Our Prayers 19:45 All Things for Good 23:04 Predestination Debate 29:08 Wrap Up and Next WeekNEW!: Rate us at Podchaser  Find us at www.pondergmc.org. Feedback is welcome: PonderMethodist@gmail.com Music performed by the Ponder GMC worship team.Cover Art: Joe WagnerRecorded, edited and mixed by Snikrock 

In the brokenness of this world, pain, suffering, and deep sorrow often leave us without polished words. What comes out instead are groans—deep sighs, wordless cries, or inward aches that express more than language ever could. Scripture reveals that these groans are not meaningless; they are a form of prayer that reaches the heart of God. The Holy Spirit Himself takes up our inarticulate expressions and presents them perfectly before the Father. The apostle Paul develops this beautiful truth in Romans 8:18-30. He begins by contrasting present suffering with future glory. Let's take a deep dive into this prayer through groaning.

I. The Meaning II. The Reason III. The Significance Read: Romans 8:1-25 Text: Romans 8:19-22

This last Sunday, Gerry Breshears gave us a theology of prayer in times of groaning, based on Psalm 13.    Christians in the West have largely seen suffering as a theological and existential problem to be solved, lest our faith deconstruct. Much of Scripture reveals a different worldview - this world is a war zone, where Satan is prince and suffering is a normal part of life.   Our goal is to suffer with an awareness of God's presence, engaging with all the emotions of prayer. This posture allows us to partner with God in bringing goodness and hope to our world.   Access Gerry's handout/guide for this teaching HERE.

Testing God's Groaning w/ Q&A | Romans 8:18-27 | Amazing Grace by Hunter Bible Church

What does it take to rehumanize our common life in a moment of cultural fragility, institutional collapse, and crisis of trust? Recorded at the Washington National Cathedral for Comment magazine's inaugural Understory Festival, this roundtable asks how culture, beauty, and faith might rehumanize a fractured public life. Mark Labberton is joined by Comment editor-in-chief Anne Snyder, The Sacred host Elizabeth Oldfield, Washington Post columnist Shadi Hamid, and Cardus co-founder Ray Pennings. "It is actually possible to have deep roots and wide open arms." In this episode, the panel reflects on building a gathering rooted in hope and Christian humanism rather than argument alone. They discuss why and how politics is downstream from culture, the role of religion in the public square, the limits of purely cerebral ways of knowing, toxic positivity versus honest hope, pluralism with deep roots, the beauty of "groaning," and learning to die well. Episode Highlights "It is actually possible to have deep roots and wide open arms."—Anne Snyder "Naturally as a Muslim, I don't agree with Christianity's truth claims, but that doesn't mean that I can't appreciate the beauty of Christianity."—Shadi Hamid "The word that's been coming to me this whole festival is and."—Elizabeth Oldfield "Politics is downstream from culture."—Ray Pennings "We're all made to worship, it's just a question of what we worship."—Shadi Hamid About the Guests Anne Snyder is editor-in-chief of Comment, a magazine published by Cardus, and convener of the Understory Festival. She hosts The Whole Person Revolution podcast and wrote The Fabric of Character. Elizabeth Oldfield hosts The Sacred podcast, is a former director of UK think tank Theos, and author of Fully Alive: Tending to the Soul in Turbulent Times. Shadi Hamid is a Washington Post columnist, senior fellow at Georgetown's Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, co-host of Zealots at the Gate, and author of The Case for American Power. Ray Pennings co-founded Cardus in 2000 and serves as its executive vice president and Comment's publisher. Helpful Links and Resources The Understory Festival: https://comment.org/understory/ Comment magazine: https://comment.org Cardus: https://www.cardus.ca The Understory, by Lore Ferguson Wilbert (the book behind the name): https://www.amazon.com/dp/1587435705 Elizabeth Oldfield, Fully Alive: https://www.elizabetholdfield.com The Sacred podcast: https://linktr.ee/sacredpodcast Zealots at the Gate: https://comment.org/podcasts/zealots-at-the-gate/ Shadi Hamid, The Case for American Power: https://www.washingtonpost.com/people/shadi-hamid/ Show Notes Understory Festival, National Cathedral Local hope, national despair Naming the festival: the Lore Ferguson Wilbert book Festival, not conference—body, mind, heart, soul Cardus, a faith-based think tank "Politics is downstream from culture."—Ray Pennings Ways of knowing as the "secret sauce" A Muslim observer among his favorite Christians "I don't agree with Christianity's truth claims, but that doesn't mean that I can't appreciate the beauty of Christianity."—Shadi Hamid Culture as the path out of despair Weeping beside someone rolling their eyes Groaning beauty and Romans 8 Dying well—euthanasia, deathbeds, Ben Sasse The secular paradigm at a dead end "We're all made to worship, it's just a question of what we worship."—Shadi Hamid Madeleine Albright's "theophany" on faith in diplomacy Moral ambition and the power of "and" "The word that's been coming to me this whole festival is and."—Elizabeth Oldfield Christian humanism—rights endowed by a Creator Luke Bretherton—start with the neighbor's need Hospitality—a guest, not an enemy "It is actually possible to have deep roots and wide open arms."—Anne Snyder Surface versus depth—showing what's underneath #UnderstoryFestival #Comment #ChristianHumanism #PublicTheology #ShadiHamid #ElizabethOldfield #AnneSnyder #Cardus #Pluralism #Hope Production Credits Conversing is produced and distributed in partnership with Comment Magazine and Fuller Seminary.

Send Us Your Prayer Requests --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Bishop Jim’s insightful messages help others find THEIR METRON through M~otivation E~nlightenment T~ranscendence R~enewal O~utreach and N~etworking Learn more: www.bishinthenow.com Follow Jim Swilley on Youtube to see the videos live Sundays at 11:11 am – https://www.youtube.com/bishinthenow In this deeply reflective conclusion to the “Align With the Divine” series, Bishop Jim Swilley explores what true spiritual alignment actually looks like when life becomes painful, confusing, and deeply human. Using Jesus' interactions with Peter after betrayal and with Mary and Martha after Lazarus' death, he teaches that alignment is not perfection or emotional denial — it is learning to embrace the full reality of your humanity while remaining grounded in what is authentically true within you. The message centers on foundations: storms reveal what your life is built on, and genuine faith survives not because it avoids questions, but because it has been tested. Through stories about renovating his parents' home, reflections on aging, grief, friendship, Carol Burnett, and even wrestling with modern deconstruction theology, Bishop Jim emphasizes that alignment means integrating every part of your journey — mistakes, doubts, pain, joy, relationships, and spiritual experiences — into a whole and healed self. Main Takeaways 1. Storms Reveal Foundations Bishop Jim centers much of the message around Jesus' teaching about building a house on the rock versus sand. “The idea is adversity reveals your foundation.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Referencing Matthew 7, he explains that rain, wind, and floods expose whether something is authentically built to last. Alignment is not avoiding storms; it is discovering what remains standing afterward. Scripture References: Matthew Luke 2. Alignment Means Embracing Humanity and Divinity Together One of the strongest themes throughout the teaching is that spirituality should never require suppressing human emotion. “I am sick and tired of people taking some Bible verses and telling people not to have human emotions.” — Bishop Jim Swilley He argues that grief, fear, anger, disappointment, and uncertainty are not evidence of weak faith. They are part of being human. Jesus Himself experienced emotional intensity when Lazarus died. This becomes central to his interpretation of Jesus “groaning in the spirit” in John 11. Scripture Reference: John 3. “Groaning in the Spirit” Was Emotional Agitation, Not Calm Spirituality Bishop Jim digs into the Greek language behind John 11:33 and explains that Jesus' groaning was more than sadness. “The Greek root literally translated means to snort with anger or to express indignation, outrage, and deep agitation.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Rather than presenting Jesus as emotionally detached, he presents Him as fully immersed in the pain and tension of the moment. This becomes a metaphor for alignment: feeling fear while still believing, grieving while still hoping, questioning while still remaining spiritually rooted. 4. Relationships Are Part of Spiritual Alignment Much of the sermon reflects on the importance of authentic relationships — particularly Jesus' relationship with Peter and Lazarus. “What really matters is the relationship that you have and that you maintain.” — Bishop Jim Swilley He highlights: Jesus asking Peter “Do you love me?” Martha confronting Jesus after Lazarus' death The value of longtime friendships that survive storms Scripture References: John John 5. Alignment Includes Your Entire Story — Even the Broken Parts One of the defining statements of the message: “Make peace with every bit of your life, including your mistakes and your foibles and the things that you messed up that you can't fix.” — Bishop Jim Swilley He teaches that spiritual maturity is not pretending the painful parts never happened. Instead: regrets, failures, rejection, unanswered questions, trauma, and transformation all become threads in the tapestry of your identity. 6. Faith That Survives Questions Is Stronger Than Blind Certainty A major portion of the teaching wrestles openly with theological deconstruction and modern skepticism. Bishop Jim acknowledges: problems with organized religion, hypocrisy within evangelical culture, intellectual critiques of scripture, and the rise of ex-pastors becoming atheists. Yet he arrives at a deeply personal conclusion: “The winds and the rains and the storm already tried it… and baby it's still standing.” — Bishop Jim Swilley His argument is not rooted in dogma, but experience. Faith survives because something deeply authentic remains after every question has been asked. Key Scriptures Referenced Matthew — The wise man builds on the rock John — Lazarus, Mary, Martha, and Jesus groaning in the spirit John — Jesus asking Peter “Do you love me?” Isaiah — “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me…” Final Thought The ultimate message of this teaching is that alignment is not becoming less human — it is becoming fully integrated. The storms of life do not destroy what is real; they expose it. Faith, identity, relationships, grief, questions, and hope all coexist in the same sacred space. “You are aligned with your foundation, with what's been shaken and tried in the fire… You are exactly where you're supposed to be.” — Bishop Jim Swilley

Sunday Worship May 31st, 2026   “Groaning & Growth” Acts 15:35-41 Rev. Tyler Dirks   Sermon Audio   Sermon Outline: Sharp Disagreement Strengthening Churches Reflection Questions: When you read that Paul & Barnabas have a sharp disagreement (and they stop working together), how does that make you feel? Do you feel ho hum about it? […] The post Groaning & Growth appeared first on East Charlotte Pres.

Most of us think the ultimate goal of the Christian faith is just "going to heaven" when we die, but what if there's something much greater? Discover the surprising, biblical truth about your eternal future and what actually happens when Jesus returns.  In this powerful message, Elliott Warren dives deep into Romans 8 and 1 Corinthians 15 to uncover the "Great Christian Hope". If you've ever felt like this world is broken or you're groaning for something more, it's because you were meant for a glorious transformation. We aren't just meant to exist as spirits without bodies—or "ghosts" in the afterlife. Instead, we are promised a physical resurrection where we will be fully adopted as "sons of God".  Learn why all of creation is waiting for this exact moment and how understanding this biblical reality can completely change how you view your present struggles. Stop looking forward to just an intermediate state in heaven, and start putting your hope in the day your mortal body is redeemed and fully transformed into the image of Christ!  00:00:00 - Introduction: Pentecost Sunday & The Return of Jesus  00:04:48 - The Great Christian Hope in Romans 8 & 1 Corinthians 15  00:11:26 - The Shocking Truth: We Are Not Fully "Sons of God" Yet  00:14:46 - Why All of Creation is Groaning and Waiting  00:18:29 - The Holy Spirit as the "First Fruits" and Our Guarantee  00:27:37 - The Heavenly Dwelling: Why We Don't Want to Be "Ghosts"  00:34:28 - Awaiting Our Full Adoption and Body Redemption  00:36:16 - Jesus' Teaching on the Resurrection in Luke 20  00:43:21 - Predestined to Bear the Image of Christ  00:48:46 - Finding Real Hope for Your Present Struggles  #ChristianHope #EndTimes #Heaven #Resurrection #Romans8 #ElliottWarren #SonsOfGod #BibleStudy #ChristianFaith #JesusReturns #OvercomingHardships #SpiritualGrowth #Sermon #crossculturechurch  If this message gave you a new perspective on your future, please SUBSCRIBE to our channel and SHARE this video with someone who needs unshakeable hope today! Welcome to the official channel of Cross Culture Global, the digital-first media ministry of Cross Culture Church, led by Pastor Elliott Warren. We believe following Jesus isn't a Sunday tradition—it's a radical way of living in today's world. Our mission is to move beyond motivation to deliver profound biblical teaching with raw, real-life application. We dive deep into the complex and often "off-limits" topics that matter most. What you'll find here: Raw Truth: Deep biblical insights for a today's culture. Global Community: A virtual-first community reaching every corner of the earth. New Here? Learn more about us: crossculturechurch.com  Give online: crossculturechurch.com/give  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5TKYUWdiK0N204bF6b4U4w Watch on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crosscultureglobal Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrossCultureGlobal/ Sermones disponibles en español. / الخطب متوفرة بالعربية / हिंदी में उपदेश उपलब्ध / 提供中文讲道

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Rod Thompson - Preached at 11am on May 17 Passage - Romans 8:18-23

Episode 679 – “All of Creation Is Groaning for the Grownups!” What if believing in yourself isn't arrogance… but responsibility? In this powerful episode of The TerryWilson3.com Podcast, Terry Wilson challenges the idea that self-doubt, fear, and playing small are somehow virtues. Instead, he makes the case that refusing to…

“The Groan”Why does suffering hurt so badly?”TEACHING TEXT - Romans 8:22-23 22 For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23 And we believers also groan, even though we have the Holy Spirit within us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children, including the new bodies he has promised us.Job 1:1-3 There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job, and that man was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil. 2 There were born to him seven sons and three daughters. 3 He possessed 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 yoke of oxen, and 500 female donkeys, and very many servants, so that this man was the greatest of all the people of the east.Suffering is an ache from being banished.Genesis 2:25 25 Adam and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame.Genesis 3:1-7 The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made. One day he asked the woman, “Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?” 2 “Of course we may eat fruit from the trees in the garden,” the woman replied. 3 “It's only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, ‘You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.'” 4 “You won't die!” the serpent replied to the woman. 5 “God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.” 6 The woman was convinced. She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it, too. 7 At that moment their eyes were opened, and they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So they sewed fig leaves together to cover themselves.Groaning is a deep, wordless, inward expression of pain, distress, or intense longing for relief and redemption.Our spirit groans for home.Romans 8:22-23 22 For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23 And we believers also groan, even though we have the Holy Spirit within us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children, including the new bodies he has promised us.John 11:17 17 On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. John 11:19 and many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother.John 11:32 32 When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. 34 “Where have you laid him?” he asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied. 35 Jesus wept.Grief isn't the absence of faith, its a symptom of suffering2. Jesus entered our groaningJohn 1:14 “and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. Luke: 22:42 “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from me; nevertheless not my will, but Yours be done.”Job 1:21 “the Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”Psalm 34:8 Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!”Sometimes we have to pray through confusion. Psalm 13 O Lord, how long will you forget me? Forever? How long will you look the other way? How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day? How long will my enemy have the upper hand? Turn and answer me, O Lord my God! Restore the sparkle to my eyes, or I will die. Don't let my enemies gloat, saying, “We have defeated him!” Don't let them rejoice at my downfall. 5 But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me. 6 I will sing to the Lord because he is good to me.Psalm 136:1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.Jesus entered our suffering himself, therefore we can stand firm in knowing that He isn't distant from your pain, and we can trust Him. 3. Jesus is our hope in the groaning.Matthew 11:28–30 “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me…For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”Hebrews 12:1 Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith…4.Eternity changes our groaning…Because eternity doesn't end in suffering, it ends in restorationActs 7:55 But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.Revelation 21:4 And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying…the groan inside of you isn't just pain, its homesickness

How long can you carry something before it breaks you?And what do you do when God feels… silent?In this teaching on Psalm 13, John Ortberg walks us through one of the most honest prayers in Scripture: “How long, O Lord?”When pain lingers, when answers don't come, and when God feels distant, we face a choice. We can grumble—turning inward in bitterness and withdrawal—or we can groan—bringing our pain honestly before God.This Psalm shows us how to lament in a way that leads somewhere. Not by denying pain, but by bringing it fully into God's presence.If you're carrying something heavy right now—a relationship, anxiety, loss, or a long unanswered prayer—this teaching will help you turn that pain into prayer.

Sunday, April 12, 2026 Exodus | Oppression & GroaningJordan WeeksExodus 1-2God's people grew massively while enslaved in a nation that was threatened by their growth and came up with a plan to slow their population down. But God raised up a man who was meant to be killed. God orchestrated events in such a way that this man would be ready to lead this oppressed people. God heard the cries and groans of His people. And He did something about it!

Lifting weights is a ridiculous endeavor. You literally engage in an activity that tears and breaks down your muscles. And you're sore the next day. Why! Why do you do this to yourself! Because you know that this is how you grow stronger. As we kick off a brand-new series called The Way, learning from the timeless wisdom of the letter of James, we'll explore one of the most difficult, yet most important truths about the painful process of growth as disciples of Jesus.

Welcome to Christ Community Church of Wilmington NC. We are committed to teaching the Bible, transforming lives, and touching our world.

Today, remember that you have a heavenly purpose. -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible.     Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org   Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

In Romans 8:23–25, the apostle Paul describes the reality that believers, like all creation, groan under the weight of living in a fallen world. Yet this groaning is not without purpose or hope. As those who have received the first fruits of the Spirit, Christians live in the tension between what has already been accomplished in Christ and what is yet to come. While we wait for the full realization of our adoption and redemption, we are sustained by a hope that is not based on what we can see, but on the promises of God. This passage teaches us how to endure present suffering with patient hope, fixing our eyes on what is unseen and eternal.

Today on the show, I get to talk to my new friend, Sophia Ruffin-Wilson. Sophia is an influencer, author, creator, and prophetic voice whose message of deliverance and transformation has resonated powerfully around the world. I started following her on instagram and fell in love with her wisdom and overall FUN vibes and knew we were meant to be friends.  Today you're going to get to hear some of her story, what God's teaching her right now, how Holy Spirit is speaking to her, and why she named her book It Will Be God. There's no new post today over on Substack since this is a bonus episode, but remember we're going to practice fasting together as a community on Tuesday, April 14th and we have a free prayer guide for you to use that day, so head over to spirituallystronger.com to subscribe and you can find it there. View the show notes here . . . . Eddie Kaufholz and I are hitting the road in May and June for The Buddies Tour and we want to see you there! We're heading to 6 different cities and y'all this is going to be a night of just pure fun. Get your tickets at thebuddiestour.com. . . . . Thank you to our sponsors: Boll and Branch: Get 15% off your first order plus free shipping at BollAndBranch.com/thatsoundsfun with code thatsoundsfun. Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/soundsfun⁠. Capstone Wellness: Learn more at capstonewellness.com/thatsoundsfun. NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join the daily outreach of Southwest Radio Ministries with Dr. Larry Spargiamino as he delves into 'Golgotha's Groaning' with author Carl Gallups. Explore the encoded images and multidimensional inspiration of the Bible, as Gallups discusses Golgotha and its significant role in biblical prophecy. This insightful audio session invites listeners to ponder the mysteries of scripture and their implications for modern faith.

Join Southwest Radio Ministries for an enlightening discussion with Larry Spargimi, author Carl Gallups, about his new book, 'Golgotha's Groaning.' Explore the profound biblical insights encoded in the Hebrew text, revealing the significance of Golgotha throughout Scripture. Discover how these revelations shed light on the multidimensional inspiration of the Bible, challenging modern misconceptions and deepening understanding for believers. This episode of 'Watchman on the Wall' offers a compelling journey through biblical prophecy and its fulfillment, making it a must-listen for those interested in the divine intricacies of Scripture.

Groaning over the effects of sin and death is a defining feature of our life here on earth. Psalm 102 describes both this groaning, and the hope we have through the resurrection of Jesus.

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Romans 8:26-27 If you could ask God for help in one area, what would it be? Weakness in Prayer Why are we weak in prayer? Groaning in Prayer How does the Spirit help us? Direction in Prayer What is encouraging about His help?

Ajahn Brahm describes why he bows to Buddha statues (and sometimes Jesus' statues) with a series of stories about the qualities he admires in the Buddha: virtue, stillness, and kindness. He then answers audience questions about choosing a meaningful life and finding meaning in the life we have. This teaching was given during Ajahn Brahm's UK visit to Anukampa, at Thames Buddhist Vihara on the 17th of June 2025. Sutta reference: MN 27: The Shorter Discourse on the Simile of the Elephant's Footprint (Cūḷahatthipadopama Sutta) https://suttacentral.net/mn27/en/bodh... Teaching retrieved from Anukampa Bhikkhuni Project:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaNtcbIPQBU&t=2s Ajahn Brahm is the Spiritual Adviser of Anukampa Bhikkhuni Project. Donations to Anukampa are welcome, please visit https://anukampaproject.org/donate/ Support us on https://ko-fi.com/thebuddhistsocietyofwa BSWA teachings are available from: BSWA Teachings BSWA Podcast Channel BSWA DeeperDhamma Podbean Channel BSWA YouTube  

In this sermon, we explore what it means to see the world “right side up” through the lens of the gospel, drawing deeply from Romans 8 and the wider sweep of Scripture.Using Dallas Willard's upside‑down fighter jet, J.I. Packer's imagery of inverted living, and Jesus' own shocking values in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1–12), we confront the reality that sin has distorted our vision so completely that what feels “normal” is actually life lived on our heads (Ephesians 2:1–3).Centering on Romans 8:1–39, this message unpacks:No Condemnation in ChristRomans 8:1–4; Romans 3:21–26; 2 Corinthians 5:21How the cross truly “worked”—God condemned sin in the flesh of His Son so there is now no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.From Law to SpiritRomans 7:7–25; Romans 8:2–11; Jeremiah 31:31–34; Ezekiel 36:25–27Why the Law could expose sin but never transform the heart, and how the Holy Spirit now fulfills the righteous requirement of the Law in us.Flesh People vs. Spirit PeopleRomans 8:5–9; Galatians 5:16–25; Colossians 3:1–10The mindset of the flesh leads to death, but the mindset of the Spirit leads to life and peace—and how to know which you are.Adopted, Not AbandonedRomans 8:14–17; John 1:12–13; Galatians 4:4–7The Spirit of adoption teaches our hearts to cry “Abba, Father” and continually reminds us who we really are in Christ.Suffering, Groaning, and HopeRomans 8:18–27; 2 Corinthians 4:16–18; Revelation 21:1–5Creation groans, we groan, and even the Spirit groans—yet all our present sufferings are “not worth comparing” with the coming glory.More Than ConquerorsRomans 8:28–39; Philippians 1:6; 1 Corinthians 15:54–58If God did not spare His own Son, how will He not also graciously give us all things? Nothing—not sin, not suffering, not death—can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.This message invites you to:Trust that the cross has decisively dealt with your condemnation (Romans 8:1).Walk in the Spirit's power, even while you still feel the pull of the flesh (Galatians 5:16).Persevere in holiness and hope, knowing God will finish what He started in you (Philippians 1:6).Live with “rebellious joy,” awaiting the full redemption of your body and the renewal of all creation (Romans 8:23–25; Revelation 21:5).Scripture focus: Romans 8; Matthew 5:1–12; Romans 7; Jeremiah 31:31–34; Ezekiel 36:25–27; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 1:6; Revelation 21:1–5.

A new MP3 sermon from Truth For Life - Alistair Begg is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Groaning and Glory Subtitle: Messages from Truth For Life Speaker: Alistair Begg Broadcaster: Truth For Life - Alistair Begg Event: Conference Date: 11/17/2025 Bible: Romans 8:18-30 Length: 39 min.

Singer-songwriter Jon Guerra joins Mark Labberton to explore devotional songwriting, public faith, and the tension between the kingdom of Jesus and American cultural power. Through music and reflection, Guerra considers how art can hold grief, courage, and hope together in turbulent times. "Love has a million disguises, but winning is simply not one." In this episode with Mark Labberton, Guerra reflects on songwriting as prayer, the call to love enemies, and artistic courage in moments of cultural crisis. Together they discuss devotional music, George Herbert's influence, the Beatitudes and American culture, citizenship and immigration imagery, increasing polarization, suffering and grace, and the vocation of Christian artists. Episode Highlights "Love has a million disguises, but winning is simply not one." "When Jesus says to love your enemies… he is giving us a means of survival." "This is not sentimentality… the only way to resist becoming what one hates." "My songwriting… would be a means of coming into contact with the invisible God." "Beauty puts us in contact with invisible things." About Jon Guerra Jon Guerra is a singer-songwriter based in Austin, Texas, known for devotional music that blends poetry, theology, and contemporary cultural reflection. His albums include Little Songs (2015), Keeper of Days (2020), Ordinary Ways (2023), and American Gospel. Guerra has also composed music for film, including Terrence Malick's A Hidden Life (2019). The son of immigrants from Cuba and Argentina, his work often explores themes of citizenship, prayer, justice, and the teachings of Jesus. His songwriting draws inspiration from figures like George Herbert and Howard Thurman, and seeks to connect spiritual devotion with public life. Helpful Links and Resources Jon Guerra website: https://www.jonguerramusic.com/ American Gospel album: https://jonguerra.bandcamp.com A Hidden Life film: https://www.searchlightpictures.com/ahiddenlife Jesus and the Disinherited by Howard Thurman: https://www.beacon.org/Jesus-and-the-Disinherited-P1781.aspx The Porter's Gate: https://www.portersgateworship.com/ Show Notes Devotional songwriting George Herbert influence on the pursuit of prayerful craft "Music for attending to the soul." Monday morning prayer music framing devotional practice Beauty and invisible realities in artistic experience American Gospel song introduction and cultural critique Beatitudes inversion in American culture "How do I give Christ a say in this conversation?" Love Your Enemies composition and album Jesus Howard Thurman's influence on enemy-love theology (Jesus and the Disinherited) Emotional formation through news, anger, and public life Death of ego and kingdom discipleship Kierkegaard and faith beyond ideology Worship as reordering power Kingdom of Jesus song and Pilate encounter Allegiance to a greater kingdom beyond nationalism Citizenship as foreignness imagery Immigrant family background shaping songwriting Citizens song written after 2017 inauguration "Come to you because I'm confused." Five-four musical structure expressing disorientation Groaning beauty and Romans 8 resonance Artists as "holy fools" naming reality Moltmann and theology near the cross Simone Weil: gravity and grace reflection "Love has a million disguises, but winning is simply not one." Hashtags #JonGuerra #DevotionalMusic #LoveYourEnemies #ChristianArt #AmericanGospel #PublicFaith #Jesus #Gospel #SpiritualFormation Production Credits Conversing is produced and distributed in partnership with Comment Magazine and Fuller Seminary.  

Writing to the Christians of first-century Rome, the apostle Paul acknowledged that creation, believers, and even the Spirit Himself groan in hopeful anticipation of final renewal. Present suffering is real, Scripture affirms—but it is eclipsed by the promised glory to come. Alistair Begg traces the inseparable link between suffering and glory in God's redemptive purpose, reminding us that the Spirit sustains believers in weakness and that God is at work in all things for our ultimate good.

If we're going to be equipped for real life, we have to see how Christ actually prepares us to face the unavoidable brutalities of life. We've been looking at how faith in Christ concretely and profoundly changes us. And in Romans 8, we get to the subject of suffering. It's absolutely crucial if we're going to be equipped in any spiritual way for real life, to see how Christ helps us in our sufferings. This text gives us three things: 1) it gives us a warning about suffering, 2) it gives us three resources for suffering, and 3) it tells us how we can be sure those resources will work. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on December 10, 2006. Series: In Christ Jesus: How the Spirit Transforms Us. Scripture: Romans 8:13-27. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.