Podcasts about heavenly father

Have a question or comment for Pastor Plek or one of his guests. Send it here.378: Matt Badgley's life began with unimaginable trauma - conceived through rape to a drug-addicted mother. His childhood was marked by poverty, abuse, and abandonment, leading to a suicide attempt at 14. However, God intervened through Young Life ministry, where Matt encountered the unconditional love of his Heavenly Father. Today, he's breaking generational cycles by raising godly children with his wife Brittany. His story demonstrates that no situation is too broken for God's redemption, and our worst experiences can become the foundation for ministry and hope for others.Text your questions to us at 737-231-0605 or visit pastorplek.com. We talk faith, culture, and everything in between.Like, share, and subscribe! We love seeing and responding to your reviews and comments.Support the show: https://wbcc.churchcenter.com/givingSupport the show

Serving While Being Served is the ultimate lifestyle podcast—a space where faith meets elegance, and inspiration flows from the inside out. Since beginning this journey on March 4, 2019, I have spent six beautiful years growing, stretching, taking breaks, and allowing God to mold me. And through every season—God has been working on me.This platform pours into Religion, Fashion, Health, Luxury, and Class… but more importantly, it pours into the soul. As God fills me, I will continue to pour into others, sharing everything I learn along this God-given path called life. Because who said you can't serve others while being served?I pray that as you listen, this podcast brings love, light, and clarity to your spirit—so that you too feel empowered to go serve others with joy and purpose. May obedience lead us, just as scripture reminds us: “If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land” — Isaiah 1:19 (NKJV).Peace, blessings, and abundant favor to you.May our Heavenly Father continue to guide you, fill you, and bless you—always.With Love & Light,Sade Hall, Creator & Host

The shepherds said to one another, “Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” — Luke 2:15 My children enjoy making Christmas presents for each other. Especially when they were younger, a big part of our family celebration involved exchanging food containers repurposed into Matchbox car garages, doll beds, and other treasures. As these gifts were opened, we eagerly anticipated the joy of discovering what each child had crafted and given to the others.Like the Magi (see Dec. 16), the shepherds who learned about the Savior's birth experienced a “joy of discovery.” This kind of joy can lead people to look at what God has done and to wonder what God will do next.The joy of discovery led the shepherds to respond to the angel's message by saying to one another, “Let's go . . . and see this thing that . . . the Lord has told us about.” They were eager to look for more signs and evidence of God's work. They “hurried off” to find things just as the Lord had said they would be.What have you discovered God doing in your life lately? How can you foster an eager expectation that leads you to say, “I wonder what God will do next”?Discovering God's work involves seeking the glory of God in unexpected places—even in a baby placed in a manger because there was no guest room available for him. Heavenly Father, thank you for surprising us with your goodness and mercy in unexpected ways. May we eagerly respond by seeking Jesus in every aspect of our lives. Amen.

Just as a loving father gives good gifts to his children, our Heavenly Father eagerly desires to bestow the gift of the Holy Spirit. In episode ten of "The Holy Spirit," Duane Sheriff teaches how to receive this incredible gift by asking in faith and being willing to speak in tongues. The key is to ask with confidence, believing that we receive at the moment we ask. This shift in perspective can transform our approach to spiritual growth, encouraging us to focus on Jesus as the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit, rather than getting caught up in the manifestations of that gift.Step out in faith, speak under the Spirit's anointing, and surround yourself with believers who can support and encourage you in this journey. We don't have to beg, bargain, or wait—Jesus is eager to fill those who believe they receive when they ask. Open your heart to a deeper relationship with God through the power of the Holy Spirit.Click for FREE offer ➡️https://pastorduane.com/landing/the-holy-spirit/

In a world filled with uncertainty and stress, Jesus commands us not to worry about our lives. This isn't naive idealism but faith grounded in God's sovereignty over all creation. When Jesus points to birds and flowers as examples of God's care, He's teaching us that our Heavenly Father knows what we need. Worry comes when we act like orphans instead of remembering we have a Father who provides. The key is seeking first God's kingdom and trusting Him with today's faithfulness rather than tomorrow's outcomes. We can't eliminate stress, but we can renounce anxiety as our operating system through daily surrender to God's sovereign care.Support the show

Praise Series #13 Let's Have A Conversation With Our Heavenly FatherPsalm 145:8 “The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”I heard this as the verse of the day on KLOVE radio, and I instantly knew it was one I wanted to talk about because I have been thinking a lot about God lately and who we think He is.  I have heard several people say lately that they think of God as a task master in the sky who is watching us carefully and is just waiting for us to mess up so he can punish us.  I can't say that I ever thought of God in this way.  However, I used to think I needed to do the right thing or say the right thing in order to make God happy, in order to earn his love or his approval.  I can also see how one can look at God like He is up there waiting to judge us.  I mean, we are taught to fear God, and yet I don't think we are taught what that actually means.  When it says we should fear God, it actually means to have reverence for God.  Our fear of God is not negative but a positive attitude of reverence that helps us ascribe to God His due: Omnipotence, Sovereignty, and Supremacy.I now think God is Love.  I know God loves me.  I know He delights in me and that He is pleased with me.  I know I am His beloved daughter.  I know I don't have to do anything to earn these feelings; they are freely given.  I know he is not up there waiting for me to mess up so that he can punish me, although he is waiting with open arms for me when I mess up so that I can come back to Him.  When I try to think about how I know this, I am not too sure.  When I was on the Big Life New Year's Retreat, I was reading one of my journal entries to two of the ladies there, and I felt like the Holy Spirit said to me, “This is how you know.  This is where your confidence in yourself and in my love for you comes from.”  I took a minute to think about it, and I knew He was right.  I mean, He is the Holy Spirit, so of course he was right.  But I could see how He was right.  I learned about writing letters to God in my journal and then asking Him to write back to me using my pen in 2019, when I was learning to be a life coach and a spiritual coach.  I started doing this regularly sometime in 2020.  I was listening to the Bible in A Year Podcast, and Father Mike was talking about how if we want a more intimate relationship with God, we could start by speaking to Him more intimately.  I don't know what he said exactly, but that is what I heard.  I started writing in my journal as if it were a letter to God.  I began addressing it, Dear Father, because Dad felt too informal, and I wanted to make sure I was being reverent.  However, over the days to come, I experimented with other terms: Dad, Daddy, Papa.  It felt strange at first, but the more I did it, the more comfortable I felt with it. I was growing closer to Him.  I went back and looked in my journal.  I am not sure which journal I used before this one, but his one starts May 1, 2020. I was writing pretty often during this time. That is probably because it was during COVID, and so the world kind of slowed down, and we had more time.  The first time that I can see in this journal that I asked God to answer me through my pen was June 2, 2020.  This is what I felt He said to me:“Dear Holy One, I love you!  I do not feel you lack trust.  You are a good and faithful servant.  Thank you for getting the prayer group online.  I missed you, ladies, and the praise and worship.  I am here for you, lean into me.  I love you, my daughter.  I love what you are becoming.  I will mold you if you let me.  Help the leaders of the prayer group, as the leaders are tired.  You can bring new energy into the group.  The workshop is a good idea.”Can you see how hearing words like this from your heavenly Father would help you see that God is love? How would it help build your confidence and help you better understand who He is and who you are in His eyes?  It is not always super positive.  It is not as if the letters are always filled with compliments, and that is it.  Sometimes we need correction and guidance, and sometimes we don't want to hear that.  However, when it comes from God, correction is given with love and grace.  When you spend time listening to what God is actually saying, you realize He is not a mean task master waiting for us to screw up.  He is a loving Father who wants to help and protect us.  Here is an example from June 24, 2020.  This is the second time in this journal that I have asked to hear from God.  This is just a portion of what I felt He was saying:“You will do a great many things.  I will show you when you are ready. Stay the course.  Your work pleases me.  Your effort pleases me.  Notice the good more in Tony.  Point out the light you see.  Live by “will this matter in 5 years?”  Help bring more light into your family, not darkness.  No sarcasm, no teasing, just building each other up.  You are better than that.  Be a good listener, put first things first.  You are doing great, keep going.  I love you, my daughter, and I am with you. I know your name.  I love you.”Again, can you see the love in His words?  I know that not every word might be from God.  Sometimes our own thoughts can get mixed in as well.  However, I asked God to answer me, and when we ask God, He answers, so I trust most of this is from God.  Another way you can tell when you are writing that the words are not primarily from you is that we are not this kind to ourselves.  We are our own worst critics, and we don't believe in ourselves as God does.  We don't say nice things to ourselves as God does.  God loves you, and He wants to tell you how much. We are just too busy to listen.  I have found that sometimes, even when I do sit down and find quiet time to listen to God, I can't hear anything.  I think for me, this is because I get too much in my head.  I tell myself I won't hear anything, or I question everything.  This is why, for me, writing letters to and from God helps me listen to him better.  When I am writing, I am not thinking too much.  I am not questioning or overanalyzing.  I am just writing down all that comes to mind. Sometimes it was a few things, and sometimes it was longer.  There were times when we had a conversation back and forth.  I would write something, then write what I felt God said in reply, then write again, and so on.  It was amazing!  Have you ever wanted to sit down and talk with God?  A real back-and-forth conversation, you can.  All you have to do is start it and then listen for God's reply.  If you are listening and can't hear Him, try writing down what comes to mind.  We don't usually hear God's voice as a loud booming voice from the sky.  Usually, He sounds more like your own voice in your head.  It is more like a thought than an audible voice.  Writing these letters to God and having Him write back has been amazing.  I truly think it has helped to cement my knowledge of who I am in His eyes.  I have less stress and anxiety because I don't just think God is looking out for me, I know He is because He tells me often.  I don't just believe that God loves me, I know he does because He tells me often.  I don't wonder if He is proud of me or if I am doing a good job, I know I am because He tells me often.  He is longing to tell you too.  All you have to do is ask and then listen for His response.  Give it a try, I know you will be blown away by the love He gives you.  If you try it and nothing happens, please reach out to me.  I would love to help you with this, as I know God is longing to talk to each one of us individually.  He tells me often, and also tells us at the prayer group, that His people aren't listening to Him.  If you struggle to see God as a loving Father, start writing letters to Him and ask Him to reply.  You will see just how much He loves you, and who couldn't use more love in their life?The reason I decided to include this in our praise series is that part of the reason it can be hard to praise the Lord is that we struggle believing that He is a loving Father. We struggle to believe He has our best interest at heart. However, when we are constantly hearing from the Lord, and we realize how intimately He knows us, then we might find it easier to praise Him. If you are struggling to see God as a loving Father, bring that struggle to Him. Talk to Him about it, and He will help you.  He is a good good Father.Dear Heavenly Father, I ask you to bless all those listening to this episode today.  Lord, I ask you to show each person listening who they are in your eyes. Thank you for all the times you have answered my letters, and I ask you to encourage others to write to you as well.  Lord, I pray that each person listening begins to listen more to what you have to say.  I pray that your words will fill their soul and they will see just how amazing you are.  I pray they will know that you are not waiting for us to screw up so you can punish us, you are waiting to welcome us back with open arms.  You are a good, good Father, and I pray that every person listening will be able to see that for themselves, not just take my word for it. We love you, Lord, and we ask all of this in accordance with your will and in Jesus' holy name, Amen!Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. I look forward to meeting you here again tomorrow. Remember, Jesus loves you, and so do I.  Have a blessed day!Today's Word from the Lord was received in July 2025 by a member of my Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group. If you have any questions about the prayer group, these words, or how to join us for a meeting, please email CatholicCharismaticPrayerGroup@gmail.com. Today's Word from the Lord is, “I enrobe you with My power, with My love, with My strength. You are my creation. You are the heart of My heart. Open yourselves up like the petals of a beautiful flower and receive all I have to give you.” www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

WORD: SAVIOR This week we are studying,The Matchless Gift of God's Divine Son, in Come, Follow Me. You will find the word of the week, teaching tips, and more in our newsletter. Here's what to look forward to in this episode: HIS FIRST SERMONS INTO THE MESS THE BABY WHICH NAME We love studying with you! Grace and David You will find the word of the week, teaching tips, and more in our newsletter. Sign up here: www.dontmissthisstudy.com Videos can be found on YouTube: Don't Miss This Grace Freeman Instagram: @thisweeksgrace David Butler Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrdavebutler/ Instagram: @mrdavebutler Come, Follow Me is a resource offered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is designed to be used in the home to support personal and family scripture study to build faith in Heavenly Father and His plan of salvation and in the Savior Jesus Christ and His Atonement. Come, Follow Me is self-contained and adequate, when used properly. Products and materials designed to supplement this resource, though they may be helpful in some instances, are not necessary for a successful home study program.

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Revelation 8 The Lamb breaks the seventh seal, and there is a profound silence in heaven for about half an hour, creating a sense of awe and anticipation. Seven angels stand before God, each given a trumpet to sound. Another angel offers incense on the golden altar, and smoke rises with the prayers of the saints. The first trumpet brings hail and fire mixed with blood, burning a third of the earth and its vegetation. The second casts a fiery mountain into the sea, turning a third of the sea into blood. The third causes a blazing star called Wormwood to fall, poisoning rivers and springs. The fourth darkens a third of the sun, moon, and stars. Then an eagle cries out loudly, warning that even greater woes are still to come.  This chapter indicates that God's judgment is real, purposeful, and holy. When the Lamb opens the seventh seal, heaven falls silent, emphasizing the seriousness of what is to come. Our prayers ascend before God with incense, reminding us that He hears us and values our faithfulness. As each trumpet sounds, parts of creation are affected. Trees burn, seas turn to blood, rivers become bitter, and the sky darkens. These signs show how sin causes brokenness not just in people but in the world itself. We are called to live with urgency, to take God's warnings seriously, and to trust His timing. Even in judgment, God shows mercy by giving time for repentance. We must keep praying, watching, and remaining faithful.  Heavenly Father, we come before You with reverence and awe. As silence filled heaven when the seventh seal was opened, help us to pause and reflect on Your holiness and justice. You hear the prayers of Your people, and we trust that our voices rise before You like incense. In the midst of judgment, remind us of Your mercy and patience. Strengthen our faith as we witness a world broken by sin. Keep us alert, humble, and faithful. Let us never take lightly Your warnings or Your love. Draw us closer to You as we trust in Your perfect will.    Thought Questions: How does silence in heaven challenge you to pause and reflect on the seriousness of God's judgment and your humility before Him? Do you believe the prayers of saints continue to ascend to God? How does that imagery affect your emotions when engaged in prayer? How should the trumpet judgments affect the way you view sin, creation, and the urgency of living a life that honors and obeys God?

The True Definition of “Preside” by Autumn Dickson The Family Proclamation turned 30 this year. It is a document that teaches about God's plan for families. Though many believe it to be outdated, I testify of its ongoing relevance. Its principles hold truth that can protect and save. If everyone went home and tried to follow the principles within this document, society would evolve overnight. As I approach some of these principles in this post, it's important to note that The Family Proclamation is the ideal. None of us are going to reach the ideal on this side of the veil, but we still teach the ideal. Sometimes teaching the ideal has the undesirable side effect of making us feel discouraged. We cannot afford to let that take hold in our lives. Satan would love to take the ideal and twist it so that it crushes us, and we get to decide whether we let those feelings into our lives or whether we hold on to the hope that is Jesus Christ. So, like the Family Proclamation, I want to try and teach the ideal. Your circumstances may not allow the ideal. How you grew up may not have even afforded you a glimpse of the ideal, but consciously choose how you're going to look at this ideal. You can look at it and wonder if God doesn't love you because you don't have that ideal, you can feel hopeless about ever reaching that ideal, OR you can tell Satan to back off. God teaches the ideal so you can strive for it, but God also teaches the ideal because He's trying to give you a glimpse of His promises to you. He is saying, “This is what I want for you because I love you. This is what you were always meant to have. This IS what you will have if you hold on.” So let's talk about one of these truths with that understanding. One of the truths that is often mocked and twisted is regarding fathers. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. There is a lot that we could dissect in that one sentence, but I'm going to pull out one of the first phrases. Fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness. “Preside” is the troublesome word in the eyes of the world. According to the dictionary, the word “preside” means to be in a position of authority so when we use this word, we often picture a home where the father gets the final say on any decision. Even when a husband loves his wife and listens to her honest opinion, it doesn't feel good to think that the man still gets the final say, and that's it. Is that really the end of the story? Even when he loves and listens to his wife, there are still moments where her perspectives go unheard because apparently it's divinely appointed. Then, there's the pressure that gets placed on the man for this kind of responsibility. No longer does he have a true partner to share life with. He carries it all because it ultimately falls on him. There have been a lot of things in the gospel and church that haven't always felt perfect or right when I've originally learned about them. I've learned that if I trust God and keep going, I've been led to answers from Him. It has been no different with this particular principle. If you keep reading in The Family Proclamation, you come across this line as well. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners. This is our first hint that maybe we don't fully understand what we're reading. How can two people be equal partners if one person always gets the final say unless it's specifically “given” to the other partner? So which part am I reading wrong? Which part don't I understand? Is it the “equal” part or the “presiding” part? As I've pondered this particular question, I had a thought come to my mind. If I truly want to have the family that the Lord wants me to have, I have to ignore the world's meaning of the word “preside” and embrace what the Lord means by the word “preside.” This isn't just me trying to skirt my way around a difficult issue. It's not me doing mental gymnastics to try and make sense of it. Look at the Lord. The Lord presides differently than the rest of the world. He is the ultimate presiding officer and yet, we didn't see Him going around and making demands. We didn't see Him silencing good people and ignoring the opinions of others. He certainly wasn't disregarding the women in His life in the name of presiding officer. One of the foremost characteristics of Christ's life was His desire to serve. He devoted His life to securing what was best for everyone around Him. He was the ultimate presiding officer, and He was also the ultimate servant. Perhaps in the eyes of the Lord, presiding means the first person to step up and serve everyone around them. Presiding meant making decisions sometimes, but it also meant encouraging others to step up and lead. Presiding meant washing feet; it meant laying down His life, not putting His life above all others. Presiding, according to the Lord's interpretation, also means lifting everyone. The ultimate purpose of our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are to bring about our immortality and eternal life. They want to lift us to where They are. It's not about controlling us and forcing us to do what they think is best. It's about meeting us where we're at and trying to lift us so that we can be as good and wise and loving and happy as They are. I hold no issue with this definition of my husband presiding in my home. I testify that the gospel holds up on closer inspection. Things that may seem troublesome or off can stand up to the light when we look at it with Christ. I testify that Heavenly Father has a plan for our families. I testify that His plan is based on serving each other and lifting each other, not ruling over each other. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – The Family: A Proclamation to the World – Part 1 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

December 15–21: “The Family Is Central to the Creator's Plan”The Family: A Proclamation to the World (Explained to Kids)Even before we were born, we were part of a family—the family of our heavenly parents. That pattern continues on earth. Families here, at their best, are meant to echo the perfect pattern in heaven.“The family is central to the Creator's plan.”“⁠The Family: A Proclamation to the World⁠” is clearly about families. But it is equally about God's plan of salvation.“Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ.”Think of paragraphs 6 and 7 of the family proclamation as a pattern for “happiness in family life.” Families are important in Heavenly Father's plan.I am a “beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents.”You're listening to Come Follow Me Kids!A Come Follow Me Podcast for Primary Kids of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.We are an interactive game play podcast for kids. Children will learn shout the scriptures while playing games that go with the Come Follow Me Lessons from the church.This year we are studying the Doctrine and Covenants. If you are looking for a Doctrine and Covenants Podcast for Primary Kids, look no further! Our podcast is called Come Follow Me Kids. Come Follow Me for kids that are primary aged 2-12 in the Church or Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. We follow the come follow me manual from the church but are not officially affiliated in any way. Some audio segments come from the friend magazine and other church sources. On this podcast we play interactive games while learning about the gospel and atonement of Jesus Christ.If your children would like to be guests on this podcast or to receive a baptism shout out, please email us at their info at comefollowmekidspodcast@gmail.com 

When worry rises, Scripture invites us to shift our frame—from worry to gratitude, from control to trust, from tomorrow to forever. Jesus reminds us not to worry about tomorrow because our Heavenly Father already knows what we need (Matthew 6). Tomorrow is a gift—but it's not promised. Eternity is.

Pastor Eric Friedmann fondly recalls humorous memories of Christmas past and sets the stage for a new mini-series titled 'The Songs of This Season.' He reflects on the unexpected origins and deep meaning behind popular Christmas carols, starting with 'Silent Night.' By delving into the context of Jesus's birth, Friedmann emphasizes that spiritual stillness and true peace are found not in the absence of life's chaos, but in the presence of the Savior. He invites the congregation to seek stillness through their relationship with God, stressing that they are at home with the Heavenly Father solely because of Jesus. Encouraging the community to embrace the essence of the season through worship, Friedmann concludes with a call to recognize and cherish the divine stillness brought by Christ's birth.

The Humble Servants of God Part 2: Joseph, the Earthly Father of Jesus Matthew 1:18-24 God's ways are not our ways. Just like Mary, Joseph, according to human reasoning and understanding was an unlikely choice to be used by God to be His Son's earthly father. But God takes the logic and reasoning of the world and flips it on its head. It was prophesied that Jesus would come from the Tribe of Judah and would be a direct descendant of both Abraham and King David. Joseph fulfilled this ancient prophesy, but even though he was a man of simple means, we can learn much from his life. Joseph chose to walk by faith even in the midst of confusion. He was a man who modeled humility and Joseph's life, character and obedience point us to the heart of our Heavenly Father. As the children of God, may we all strive to be more like Joseph; humble and selfless as we serve the King of kings and Lord of lords, Jesus.See you Sunday!I love y'alldoug

Archbishop Kanishka on the terror attack at Bondi - Kanishka Raffel, Martin Morgan and Ben Pakula Sydney's Anglican Archbishop Kanishka Raffel calls on Sydney to embrace our Jewish neighbours in love, friendship and support and to reject antisemitism, violence and hatred. Archbishop Raffel says this is the way of Jesus.Minister of Bondi Anglican Martin Morgan says they sheltered people in the church last night, who were terrified,  running for their lives. In a The Pastor's Heart special, Archbishop Raffel is joined by minister of Bondi Anglican Church Martin Morgan and Messianic Jew Ben Pakula (also an Anglican Minister) in praying for those family and friends and the Bondi community, impacted by the gunman opening fire - leaving 16 dead including a 10 year old girl.http://thepastorsheart.net/podcast/love-in-the-face-of-terror-raffel-morgan-pakula Suggested Prayers :- Prayers prepared by St Andrew's Cathedral, Sydney for those affected by the shooting at Bondi Beach, 14/12/25For the bereaved and injuredHeavenly Father, God of all comfort, deal graciously with those who grieve in this time of deep sadness. We pray especially for family and friends of those who have been shot. Grant them strength and peace in the days ahead. We pray with a spirit of compassion and grace for the Jewish and broader Bondi community, as they come to terms with their grief and shock. We ask you, Gracious Lord, to heal and restore all those who are still recovering in hospital. Be with them and their families as they travel the road to recovery. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.For the first respondersHeavenly Father, whose blessed Son was acquainted with grief and carried our sorrows: Thank you for those who, courageously following in his steps, willingly entered into the trauma of recent events on our behalf – civilians responders, the police, ambulance officers and other emergency medical personnel. We pray also for the police responsible for investigating the circumstances around these crimes. In your tender mercy, grant diligence and protection in their tasks, and rest to their bodies, healing to their minds, and peace to their hearts; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.For the community around Bondi BeachOur dear Heavenly Father, hear our prayers for the men, women and children, who live and work in or near Bondi Beach and the surrounding areas. We present the needs of residents, shopkeepers, restaurateurs, staff, customers, and visitors to the area. You know them. You know every hair on their heads. We call on you to protect and heal. Allow a healthy process as people respond to these harrowing acts of violence. Thank you, Lord, for the courage and kindness of the people who helped each other on Sunday. May that spirit of kindness continue through your empowering, Lord. As people face anxiety, trauma, and grief, provide comfort, resilience, peace, and safety. Grant wisdom to community leaders and help us know you are a good, gracious God. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Amen.For the wider community of Sydney AnglicansAnglican AidTo support Anglican Aid's Christmas Appeal - Click: Anglican Aid. The Church Cohttp://www.thechurchco.com is a website and app platform built specifically for churches.  Advertise on The Pastor's HeartTo advertise on The Pastor's Heart go to thepastorsheart.net/sponsorSupport the show

“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool." Isaiah 1:18 Morning by morning, the frost of yesterday melts in the warmth of Your compassion. The stains and shame of the past do not survive the sunrise. Though my sins were scarlet, You whisper “Come,” and the crimson fades to white as snow. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. As Naaman stepped down into Jordan's waters in humble obedience and rose restored, so I step into Your Word and Your will — simple, trusting, and expectant. The Jordan is a threshold, the night a passage, and the dawn Your mercy's announcement. What I could not cleanse by effort, You cleanse by grace. What I could not silence by striving, You quiet with the snowfall of mercy. Psalm 51:7 says, "Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow." Let the old year release its grip; let every accusation be hushed under fresh grace. Roll away reproach as at Gilgal; dress me in the robe of righteousness; crown me with steadfast love and mercy. Order my steps in Your word. Make Your lamp a fire to my path. Teach me to leave only grace-shaped footprints across the day You set before me. Because, Morning by morning new mercies I see: New patience for the unfinished places.Morning by morning new mercies I see, new strength for the unseen battles.Morning by morning new mercies I see; New joy that sorrow cannot steal.Morning by morning new mercies I see; New peace that outlives the storm.Morning by morning new mercies I see; New holiness born not of resolve alone, but of Your Spirit within. Lord, before the year 2025 ends, let me emerge clean — thoughts rinsed, motives sifted, hands made ready for good works. As we cross into 2026, set my footprint on grace. Let forgiveness be my trail, gratitude my pace, compassion my companion. Establish my goings. Keep my heart soft, my tongue gentle, my eyes lifted.  Lamentations 3:22–23 says, "Because of the Lord's great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness." Prayer for the Day!Heavenly Father, thank you for the daily mercy you release. I receive Your mercy at daybreak and Your faithfulness by night. I renounce every old stain and take hold of the new song You place in my mouth. May my life be a quiet field after snowfall — pure, expectant, unmarked — awaiting the adventures of Your leading. In the name of Jesus — Lamb who washes me, Shepherd who guides me, Morning Star who heralds my day by day — amen.

"Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” Psalm 46:10 As we find ourselves in the middle of this month, take a moment to reflect. Just like a lush garden needs time to breathe and bloom, our spiritual lives thrive in stillness. Scripture reminds us in Psalm 46:10, "Be still, and know that I am God." This call to pause is not merely an invitation; it's a powerful opportunity to deepen our connection with the Divine. Think of Jesus, who frequently withdrew to lonely places to pray, as we see in Mark 6:31. His moments of solitude were not signs of weakness, but rather opportunities for renewal and closeness with His Father. When we carve out time in our busy lives, much like a breath mark in a musical score, we create space for intimacy to flourish. The hustle may tempt us to rush, but in doing so, we risk losing the melody of our relationship with God. Mark 6:31 says, Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, 'Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” This weekend, set aside a Sabbath hour and guard it like the precious appointment it is. Let it be a space where your heart can rest and your spirit can reconnect. Remember the wisdom of Paul Borthwick: “Busyness is the enemy of intimacy.” By choosing still moments, we find ourselves wrapped in God's presence, immersing our souls in a sacred rhythm that brings us closer to Him. As you engage in this stillness, remember, "A rested soul prays without words. The calm we keep makes room for God to speak." So, let your stillness become a sanctuary because in the hush between breaths, you will hear God clearly. Embrace this assurance, and let His peace wash over you. Acknowledge that “rest is worship too,” as it is in these quiet moments that we truly honor His presence in our lives. Exodus 33:14 says, "The LORD replied, 'My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Prayer for the Day!Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of stillness. Brethren, I pray for you, may the Holy Spirit help you to cherish your quiet moments with God, allowing intimacy to bloom in your heart. May your soul grow familiar with His whisper, and may His gentle presence quiet every anxious thought. In the stillness, may you find refuge, wisdom for your steps, and courage for your battles. May His peace guard your heart and mind, and His love steady you like an anchor in the storm. As you wait before Him, may your affections be reordered, your strength renewed, and your vision clarified. May gratitude rise, obedience deepen, and hope abound. May the secret place become your sure dwelling, and the knowledge of His nearness be your daily song. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Matthew ch 6 vs 24-34 - Jay Atkins - Sunday, December 14, 2025

It is time this very minute to pray and seek God. Time to set our timers and pray for the minute. This podcast encourages us to stop for a minute and, now, in the presence of our Heavenly Father—with praise and prayer—worship Him in Jesus' name and in the power of the Holy Spirit. ———— *We do not own the rights to music played on this podcast.

Sheila Walsh’s happy childhood dissolved in an instant when her father suffered a devastating brain injury that led to violent outbursts, and ultimately, death by suicide. Sheila couldn’t understand why her dad hated her, but resolved to do better for her Heavenly Father. Hear why Sheila ended up in a psychiatric hospital at age 34, and how Jesus helped her see her truth worth as His child. Receive a copy of The Six Conversations and an audio download of "How to Have Meaningful Conversations with Your Spouse" for your donation of any amount! Your Gift DOUBLES to Help Deliver Hope and Joy! Save 2X the marriages and families this Christmas with your life-changing gift today! Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

Serving While Being Served is the ultimate lifestyle podcast—a space where faith meets elegance, and inspiration flows from the inside out. Since beginning this journey on March 4, 2019, I have spent six beautiful years growing, stretching, taking breaks, and allowing God to mold me. And through every season—God has been working on me.This platform pours into Religion, Fashion, Health, Luxury, and Class… but more importantly, it pours into the soul. As God fills me, I will continue to pour into others, sharing everything I learn along this God-given path called life. Because who said you can't serve others while being served?I pray that as you listen, this podcast brings love, light, and clarity to your spirit—so that you too feel empowered to go serve others with joy and purpose. May obedience lead us, just as scripture reminds us: “If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land” — Isaiah 1:19 (NKJV).Peace, blessings, and abundant favor to you.May our Heavenly Father continue to guide you, fill you, and bless you—always.With Love & Light,Sade Hall, Creator & Host

Sheila Walsh’s happy childhood dissolved in an instant when her father suffered a devastating brain injury that led to violent outbursts, and ultimately, death by suicide. Sheila couldn’t understand why her dad hated her, but resolved to do better for her Heavenly Father. Hear why Sheila ended up in a psychiatric hospital at age 34, and how Jesus helped her see her truth worth as His child. Receive a copy of The Six Conversations and an audio download of "How to Have Meaningful Conversations with Your Spouse" for your donation of any amount! Your Gift DOUBLES to Help Deliver Hope and Joy! Save 2X the marriages and families this Christmas with your life-changing gift today! Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

Episode Summary: Have you ever noticed that sometimes the waiting feels almost better than the having? A child counting down the days until Christmas morning… the thrill of planning a vacation… even the little rush when you hear your phone buzz with a new message. That’s anticipation at work. But what if I told you that the very chemical in your brain that makes anticipation so powerful was actually designed by God to teach us something about Advent? Today we’re going to talk about dopamine, anticipation, and the kind of holy hope that not only prepares us for Christmas, but points us to the greater joy of Christ’s return. As we step into this Advent season, I want to share something that’s been on my heart—how anticipation affects our brain chemistry, our spiritual lives, and even the way we approach hope. Specifically, I want us to consider the beautiful connection between anticipation, dopamine, and Advent hope. Quotables from the episode: Did you know your brain starts celebrating before the party even begins? That’s right—long before you open the gift, taste the dessert, or hug the loved one, your brain is already releasing dopamine, the chemical of anticipation. But here’s the deeper truth: God wired us that way on purpose. Advent is the season where science and faith collide, inviting us to see how holy anticipation points our hearts beyond the moment to the eternal. In this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective, you’ll learn how your brain chemistry mirrors the biblical call to wait with joyful hope. Anticipation is the act of looking forward to something. It’s more than just waiting—it’s waiting with expectancy. It’s that feeling when you know something is coming, and you start to prepare for it in your heart, in your mind, and sometimes even in your body. Think about a child waiting for Christmas morning. They might count down the days, peek under the tree, maybe even have trouble falling asleep on Christmas Eve. That’s anticipation. Anticipation can be both positive and negative. We can anticipate a joyful event—like a wedding, the birth of a child, or a holiday gathering—or we can anticipate something difficult, like a doctor’s appointment or a hard conversation. But here’s the key: anticipation changes the way we think, feel, and behave, even before the actual event takes place. Now let’s bring in a bit of brain science. You’ve probably heard of dopamine. It’s often referred to as the “feel-good chemical,” but that’s not entirely accurate. Dopamine isn’t about pleasure itself—it’s about anticipation of pleasure. When our brains release dopamine, it motivates us to pursue something. It’s tied to the reward system in our brains. For example, when you anticipate a delicious meal, your brain releases dopamine—not when you’re eating the food, but when you think about eating it. Dopamine helps us focus, motivates us to take action, and gives us energy to pursue what we expect will be rewarding. Here’s an example: Have you ever noticed that planning a vacation can be almost as enjoyable as the vacation itself? That’s because anticipation—through dopamine—creates joy, motivation, and excitement. Now here’s where it gets interesting. When we lack healthy anticipation—when we don’t have things to look forward to—dopamine levels can drop, leading to discouragement, low motivation, and even depression. But God, in His wisdom, created us with this system of anticipation for a reason. He designed our brains to look forward, to seek reward, to long for something beyond the present moment. Advent is a season of holy anticipation. For centuries, Christians have marked the four weeks before Christmas as a time of preparation, reflection, and expectation. We look back and remember the long anticipation of Israel waiting for the promised Messiah. And we look forward in anticipation of Christ’s second coming. Advent teaches us not to rush through waiting but to savor it, to sit in it, to let it shape our hearts. In the same way dopamine motivates us to move toward something good, Advent hope motivates us to move toward God’s promises. Think about Simeon and Anna in Luke chapter 2. They spent their lives anticipating the Messiah. The Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would not die before seeing the Lord’s Christ. Imagine the daily anticipation he must have lived with. And then one day, he held the baby Jesus in his arms and declared, “My eyes have seen your salvation.” That is the fulfillment of holy anticipation. And yet, we too live in anticipation. We celebrate Jesus’ birth, yes—but we also anticipate His return. That’s what Advent reminds us: we live between the “already” and the “not yet.” Jesus has come, and Jesus is coming again. Here’s the challenge. In our culture, anticipation often gets hijacked. We anticipate Amazon packages, text message replies, or the next social media notification. Those things give us little dopamine hits, but they don’t satisfy our souls. If we’re not careful, we can train our brains to anticipate the wrong things—things that don’t last, things that can’t fulfill us. But Advent invites us to retrain our anticipation. Instead of craving fleeting rewards, we can learn to anticipate eternal hope. So, let’s ask ourselves: What am I anticipating most right now? Is it something temporary, or is it something eternal? How can I align my anticipation with God’s promises? Romans 8:24–25 says, “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” That’s the essence of anticipation: waiting with patience, grounded in hope. Let me suggest a few practical steps: Build rhythms of anticipation. Light an Advent candle each week. Read the Scriptures that point to Christ’s coming. These small practices create anticipation and remind your brain and your spirit of the greater hope to come. Practice gratitude in the waiting. Each time you feel anticipation rising—whether for a holiday gathering or even for your morning coffee—use it as a cue to thank God for something eternal. Gratitude shifts dopamine toward holy anticipation. Anchor your anticipation in God’s promises. Write down verses about Christ’s return. For example, John 14:3, where Jesus says, “I will come back and take you to be with me.” Let those promises fuel your waiting. Fast from empty anticipations. Maybe that means stepping back from constant scrolling or instant gratification. Fasting helps retrain our brains to anticipate what truly matters. Invite others into your anticipation. Just as Israel anticipated the Messiah together, we’re called to wait together. Share your Advent reflections with a friend or family member. Encourage one another with the hope of Christ’s return. When we put all this together, here’s what we see: Neuroscience shows us that anticipation releases dopamine, motivating us to move toward something good. Scripture shows us that God designed us to live in anticipation of His promises. Advent reminds us to direct our anticipation toward Christ—His birth, His presence in our lives today, and His return. When we align our brains’ natural anticipation system with God’s eternal hope, we experience deeper joy, stronger faith, and renewed strength to endure seasons of waiting. Friend, whatever you’re anticipating right now, I encourage you to lift it before the Lord. Maybe you’re anticipating something wonderful, or maybe you’re anticipating something hard. Either way, God meets us in our waiting. As we journey through Advent, let’s allow anticipation to become not a source of stress or distraction, but a holy reminder that our ultimate hope is in Christ. Would you pray with me? “Heavenly Father, thank You for designing our minds and our hearts to anticipate. Thank You for sending Jesus, the fulfillment of centuries of anticipation, and thank You for the promise that He will come again. Help us, Lord, to direct our anticipation toward what is eternal and true. Strengthen us in seasons of waiting and fill us with hope as we remember that You are faithful to every promise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” As you move through this Advent season, may you live with holy anticipation—not just for the joys of Christmas, but for the greater joy of Christ’s return. Scripture References: Romans 8:24–25 (NIV)“For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” Recommended Resources: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this powerful Mothers Who Know Podcast episode, host Karen Broadhead helps Latter-day Saint mothers rediscover who they really are: God's secret weapon of light in their homes. When the enemy targets families with discouragement, contention, shame, and emotional chaos, mothers who stay rooted in Christ become true atmosphere angels—changing the spiritual climate without needing everything around them to be “fixed.”Through real, vulnerable stories from moms in different seasons of life, you'll learn:How a simple dinner-time activity—“10 Things We Love About You”—turned a tense, tearful family moment into laughter, connection, and healingHow turning that list into a daily “I am” truth declaration helped one mom fight back against lies of failure and not-enoughnessHow a young mom with toddlers (and a baby on the way) is navigating her husband's faith crisis, emotional overwhelm, and mom guilt by creating spirit-led declarations, speaking truth out loud, and inviting Christ into her daily spinWhy the adversary constantly whispers, “If you were just more, then you'd be enough,” and how to replace that with Christ's real equation:me + Jesus Christ = more than enoughKaren and these mothers explore:How to regulate emotions so you can actually feel and follow the Spirit in the middle of messy real lifeHow to hold your own spiritual “field” instead of letting other people's choices or moods define your worthHow to recognize when Satan is using evidence from your life to build false stories about you as a momWhy you don't have to be perfect, polished, or pain-free to be a spiritually powerful motherIf you're an LDS mom supporting children or loved ones who struggle with pornography, anxiety, depression, self-harm, faith questions, or other hard behaviors—and you're exhausted from feeling like you're never enough—this episode will help you see:You are not invisible.You are not failing.You are Heavenly Father's secret weapon for good in your home.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike focuses on how God provides for us as a clear reminder that He is real. Through personal stories of God's provision in his own life and in the life of the church over the years, we are reminded again and again that our God is sovereign, faithful, and deeply personal. Each story points to the truth that our loving Heavenly Father knows our needs, cares for His children, and delights in giving good gifts to those who trust Him.

One of the most misunderstood aspects of God is the person of the Father. Sure, we may think we know our Heavenly Father, but for most of us, there can be a disconnect with who He is, and the love that He has for us. In this message, we're going to explore who the Father is and ask the Lord for a fresh revelation of His faithfulness, goodness, and kindness towards us. This is sure to be an impactful message and healing time for us all.Visit us online at http://www.fathershouseportland.org

Jesus offers an illustration that reveals the desire of our Heavenly Father to see us rescued and restored to life. (Lectionary #182) December 9, 2025 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com  

Heavenly Father, I'm yielding my heart and life to you. Keywords: Yield; obedience; obey; parable; Jesus. Matthew 21:31a

WORD: FAMILY This week we are studying,The Family: A Proclamation to the World in Come, Follow Me. You will find the word of the week, teaching tips, and more in our newsletter. Here's what to look forward to in this episode: IDENTITY FIRST GIFT LIST EXPERIENCE OVER OPINION TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER You will find the word of the week, teaching tips, and more in our newsletter. Sign up here: www.dontmissthisstudy.com Videos can be found on YouTube: Don't Miss This Grace Freeman Instagram: @thisweeksgrace David Butler Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrdavebutler/ Instagram: @mrdavebutler Come, Follow Me is a resource offered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is designed to be used in the home to support personal and family scripture study to build faith in Heavenly Father and His plan of salvation and in the Savior Jesus Christ and His Atonement. Come, Follow Me is self-contained and adequate, when used properly. Products and materials designed to supplement this resource, though they may be helpful in some instances, are not necessary for a successful home study program. We love studying with you! Grace and David

When Things Feel Unfair, Remember This About Christ's Atonement by Autumn Dickson In the past, I have shied away from talking about the Official Declarations, not because I don't believe what's in them, but because I feel that there are an immense number of people who can speak on those subjects with more knowledge, wisdom, and personal experience than I can. That being said, I do my best to simply share what the Lord wants me to share, and if I get some of the details wrong, the principles that I teach are true and I figure the Lord forgives me and is proud of me for making the attempt. This week, we read about polygamy and race and the priesthood. For many, these are not easy topics. This post is not to try and convince anyone that the Church is true. Rather, I hope that this post can comfort those who still believe that this church holds the fullness of the gospel but simultaneously feel pain when reading these declarations. As I was studying for this post, I came across a talk that we'll discuss more about later, but I wanted to start with this quote from President Eyring's April 2009 General Conference address titled “Adversity.” President Eyring is speaking of trials and difficulty when he says, “The anger comes at least in part from a feeling that what is happening is unfair…When they vanish, a feeling of injustice can come.” I think some people can relate to these feelings of unfairness and injustice when speaking about the declarations. If you've received a testimony of the gospel and you know the Lord has led you here, sometimes this makes it more painful, not less. Instead of being able to say, “God would never allow something so unfair,” you find yourself with the feeling of, “God you're telling me to come here, but this was so unfair. Don't you love me? How could you do this if you really love me?” Though you may be feeling these questions in a very specific context, these questions are not new or unique. You are not the only one to ask them. As part of our mortal experience, each of us reaches some experience where we ask those same questions. Is God truly fair? Does He really love us? Why does He allow such suffering? I have answered those questions many times in the past, but today, I don't want to answer those questions. Rather, I want to share something that the Spirit whispered to me recently. This is not an Article of Faith or excerpt from the Official Declarations, but I hope it soothes some of what people may feel when they struggle with the declarations. I want to share something from The Book of Mormon; Alma is speaking to the people of Gideon about the Savior. Alma 7:11-12 11 And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people. 12 And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities. We read these verses at church this past week, and I had a thought occur to me. Perhaps I'm rather late in noticing this nuance, but that's okay. It struck me rather hard. Christ suffered for our sins. He paid for them. He died and was resurrected. This enabled us to return to live with our Heavenly Father. It saved us. But Christ also suffered for our infirmities. I always knew that this particular suffering happened with the atonement. He suffered for our pains and sicknesses just like He suffered for our sins, but that's two different ideas; isn't it? Did Christ have to suffer for our infirmities as part of the atonement? Was that absolutely necessary in order to help us return to live with God? Or did He just do it because He loves us and wants to be there for us? Did He really need to do that? Or did He simply want to? Could He have skipped that whole bit altogether and just brought us home at the end of the mortal experience? After looking into these questions a bit more, I found the talk from President Eyring that I referenced earlier. President Eyring's ideas are based on this phrase in the same chapter of Alma. Alma 7:13 Now the Spirit knoweth all things; nevertheless the Son of God suffereth according to the flesh… In response to the passage in Alma 7, President Eyring teaches, “He could have known how to succor us simply by revelation, but He chose to learn by His own personal experience.” He chose to suffer with you. He could have said, “Hey I know it feels unfair and unjust. I know it hurts, but we have to do this. Suffering, even unfairness, is so important to the plan, so important for your well-being and growth and glory. You need this. I'm sorry it's unfair, but you have to go through this.” And He does say those things (not in so many words, but He says it). And despite the fact that He already paid for your sins and despite all that it cost Him, He also says this, “I know exactly how you feel. Exactly how you feel. I have felt it too. I am here.” There are reasons for unfairness. There are ways to turn these painful moments into powerhouse experiences that glorify you. There are answers. But beyond that, there is an ultimate unfairness that was entered into voluntarily because of a deep love. Christ could have received revelation about how to comfort you. He had already paid the ultimate price, but that wasn't enough for Him. He wanted to take the journey with you. He wanted to feel it personally and walk with you, and when necessary, carry you. He wanted to. Because He loves you. He will make it up to you. He will one day answer all of your questions, but until then, rejoice that you are so beloved. I testify that Christ loves us. He loves us enough to pay the ultimate price for us to come down here, grow, and return home despite our mistakes. But beyond that, He loves us enough to go through what we go through in order to succor us through the entire experience. He is the very definition of above and beyond and it is because of how much He loves you, how much joy He draws from being your greatest Friend. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – The Articles of Faith and Official Declarations 1 and 2 – Part 1 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

O Holy Night is a well-known Christmas carol that began as a French poem celebrating the opening of a new church. The beloved song we know today was translated into English by John Sullivan Dwight, an American minister and abolitionist, in 1855.This poignant carol reflects on the birth of Jesus as humanity's redemption.O holy night! The stars are brightly shiningIt is the night of our dear Savior's birthLong lay the world in sin and error pining'Til He appeared and the soul felt its worthA thrill of hope the weary world rejoicesFor yonder breaks a new and glorious mornA thrill of hope...what a poignant, moving way to describe the feeling in our hearts as we approach the date we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.Right now, you may be feeling a weariness you haven't experienced before. Concerns about the health and well-being of your family, and worldly troubles beyond your control, maybe weighing heavily on your heart this year.We invite you to join us as we approach Christmas Day in rejoicing in the Lord. A new and glorious morning is on the way, and our hope is still, and always, in Jesus.Let's pray.Heavenly Father, we confess this year has made us weary. We pine for your holy presence, and we rejoice in your gift of Jesus! Be present among us, Lord. Bring peace to the chaos of this world and renew our hope for the coming year. We ask these things in Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

If there is something broken in your life, your Heavenly Father wants to fix it. He is the One who makes all things new.

Introduction Adoption papers as Christmas gifts. Why so exciting? Just a piece of paper? Theirs is the huiothesia ; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises. Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of the Messiah,…

Dr. Hollisa Alewine continued the teaching from last week about the Salt Covenant with an emphasis on hospitality and how it prepares us for the presence of our Heavenly Father and Yeshua!!

The reason God's children should listen to and live out their Heavenly Father's Biblical instruction as given through their covenant parents is to illuminate their way to truly live and live forever. Learn to Leave the Light On Every Moment of Your Life.

Continuing our Advent series from the Prophet Isaiah 11, as we look to the reading of God's word, if you'd please join with me in prayer. Heavenly Father, as we meet now in your presence, we ask that you would open our ears to hear your voice, to open our hearts, to love you more and more, to open our souls, to receive your word in its fullness, that your son Jesus, the word made flesh, would be glorified and

“Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” — Luke 1:45 In many ways Mary's surprise pregnancy was not welcome news. Though she had accepted God's will, it must have been puzzling. God's way of working in her life was rather shocking and scandalous in the society she lived in. Though she would be called “blessed,” Mary probably did not enjoy much support from her local community at the time.How do we find space to process what God is doing in the hard situations of life?Mary wisely sought out the counsel of her relative Elizabeth, who was also pregnant through a miracle of God's grace. The journey there would not have been easy, taking Mary about a week during a time in her pregnancy when she might have been very tired. But Mary likely sensed in Elizabeth a kindred spirit who could help her think through the surprising things God was doing in their lives.Christmas can encourage us to seek out godly wisdom as well. Maybe we are in a difficult, unexpected situation. Maybe we feel abandoned or even shunned by a community we thought would support and encourage us.Who are the people who can help us trust in God's promises even amid such puzzling, challenging times?Alternatively, how can we be a friend who points out God's work to others? Heavenly Father, it is a blessing to believe your Word to us. May we believe that you will fulfill what you have promised. Open our eyes to Jesus' coming into our lives. Amen.

It is time this very minute to pray and seek God. Time to set our timers and pray for the minute. This podcast encourages us to stop for a minute and, now, in the presence of our Heavenly Father—with praise and prayer—worship Him in Jesus' name and in the power of the Holy Spirit. ———— *We do not own the rights to music played on this podcast.

What is going on with the rise of online "prediction markets?" One company, Kalshi is the fastest growing company outside of AI. Let's take a closer look! VA governor selects former head of Richmond FBI office as Secretary of Public Safety, Virginia man arrested over Jan. 6 pipe bombs, and Vatican rules out female deacons. All this and more on today's LOOPcast!Timestamps:0:00 - Welcome back LOOPcast! Hope you're enjoying the cold!2:05 - What's going on with prediction markets?28:17 - WHO did VA governor select as Secretary of Public Safety?33:09 - Questionable story about J6 pipe bomb suspect41:47 - Good News51:47 - Vatican rules out female deacons1:04:56 - Twilight Zone1:14:16 - A CatholicVote special announcement!EMAIL US: loopcast@catholicvote.org SUPPORT LOOPCAST: www.loopcast.orgSubscribe to the LOOP today!https://catholicvote.org/getloop   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-loopcast/id1643967065 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/08jykZi86H7jKNFLbSesjk?si=ztBTHenFR-6VuegOlklE_w&nd=1&dlsi=bddf79da68c34744 FOLLOW LOOPCast: https://x.com/the_LOOPcast  https://www.instagram.com/the_loopcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@the_loopcast https://www.facebook.com/LOOPcastPodcast Tom: https://x.com/TPogasic Erika: https://x.com/ErikaAhern2  Josh: https://x.com/joshuamercer Daily Prayer: Heavenly Father, your son, Jesus, is your greatest gift to us, a great sign of your love. Guide us as we strive to walk in that love together as a family this Advent. As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, bring us closer to each other and to your son. Give us the grace and strength we need every day. Help us to always trust in you. Come, Lord Jesus, lead all people closer to you. Come and dispel the darkness of our world with the light of your love. Amen.Heavenly Father, I come before you seeking your calming presence to bring peace to my troubled heart. My soul feels like a restless sea, tossing and turning with worries. I place my trust in your boundless love, knowing that you will heal the stress and anxiety that weights me down and burdens me. Light up the darkness Lord and let your light shine the way for me. Amen.All opinions expressed on LOOPcast by the participants are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of CatholicVote.

We check the markets often—but how often do we check our hearts? Most of us approach investing with calculators, not character. Yet Scripture calls us to a deeper way. What if investing isn't just a financial activity but a spiritual practice—one that shapes who we're becoming?Tim McCready, Head of Global Advisory at BrightLight (part of the Eversource Wealth Advisors team), has been helping both Kingdom Advisors and FaithFi develop a theological framework for investing that aligns our portfolios—and our hearts—with God's purposes. His recent work explores how timeless spiritual disciplines can transform how believers think about investing.Why Investing Requires a Spiritual LensTim begins with Jesus' words in Matthew 6: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” That's not just a warning—it's an insight into spiritual formation.“Our investment decisions aren't just a reflection of faithfulness,” Tim says. “They're shaping who we're becoming as we seek to be like Jesus.”When we invite God into our investment decisions, investing becomes more than strategy—it becomes worship. It becomes one more place where we ask God to form us into faithful stewards.The Ignatian Prayer of Examen—For InvestorsOne of the most compelling ideas Tim introduces is applying the historic Ignatian prayer of examen to our portfolios.For centuries, believers have ended their day with this reflective practice—examining God's presence, confessing sin, noticing grace, and preparing for tomorrow.Tim suggests: What if investors practiced something similar?Rather than viewing portfolios strictly through analysis or performance, the examen helps us approach them with discernment, surrender, and spiritual attentiveness.Step One: GratitudeGratitude quiets the noise and recenters us on God's generosity. Before looking at performance or market movements, Tim encourages investors to pause and thank God for His provision.It might sound something like:“Heavenly Father, thank You for the gifts You've entrusted to me—including my investment portfolio. Speak to me about my stewardship, challenge me, and remind me of Your faithfulness as I draw near to You.”Gratitude reframes everything. It reminds us that portfolios are gifts to steward—not trophies to admire nor securities to cling to.Step Two: ReviewJust as the daily examen invites believers to review their day, the investing examen invites us to review each line of our portfolio with prayerful reflection.This simple discipline lifts our eyes beyond numbers to the impact our investments have on people, communities, and the world.As Tim notes, “We may find both joy and conviction—joy where God is pleased, and invitation where He's calling us to change.”Step Three: Repentance and RenewalThis is where the examen moves from reflection to transformation.Perhaps we discover that we've placed too much security in our portfolio. Perhaps a certain investment feels misaligned with God's desires. Perhaps God prompts us toward greater generosity.Repentance helps us acknowledge these areas honestly—and renewal invites us to receive God's forgiveness and step forward in faith.A simple prayer might be:“Gracious Provider, rule over every part of my life, including my investments. Forgive me for trusting wealth over You. Give me courage to act where You lead, and joy in following Your plan for my life.”This step reorients our trust away from the market and back toward the One who “owns the cattle on a thousand hills.” (Psalm 50:10)Step Four: Community and AccountabilityThough investing can feel private, it was never meant to be isolated.We grow best in community. Sharing a budget or portfolio with a trusted friend or mentor is humbling—but powerful. Accountability exposes blind spots, clarifies values, and encourages faithfulness.Whether through a small group, a stewardship class, or a community like the FaithFi app, transparency invites God's wisdom through God's people.Step Five: Fasting from Market NoiseWe live in an era of constant market updates, by the day, hour, and minute. Tim points out that this flood of data gives the illusion of control while feeding anxiety.A spiritual practice of “fasting” from market noise—checking less often, turning off notifications, stepping back from constant updates—helps us rest in God's provision instead of reacting to every market swing.Jesus' question echoes here: “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” (Matthew 6:27) Or, as Tim puts it, “add a single cent to your portfolio?”Step Six: ServiceSpiritually formed investors naturally turn outward. Financial experience is a gift meant to serve others—whether through mentoring, teaching budgeting, serving on a church finance committee, or helping younger believers develop healthy habits.Service transforms stewardship from something we manage to something we multiply.A Holistic Vision of Faithful InvestingWhen we bring together gratitude, review, repentance, community, fasting, and service, we begin to see investing not as a sterile financial exercise but as a rhythm of worship.“Investing is faithfulness,” Tim reminds us. “It forms us. It shapes us as disciples. A biblical approach to investing isn't measured only by returns, but by spiritual formation.”In other words, investing becomes a way to follow Jesus. A biblical worldview of investing doesn't start with performance—it begins with the heart. When we invite God into our investing, He uses even financial decisions to form us into the likeness of Christ.May our portfolios—and our hearts—reflect the One who has entrusted everything to us.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I worked hard to raise my credit score to about 730, but a miscommunication with my student loan led to a late payment and brought it down to 548. The issue is fixed, and the account is current, but my score is still low. How long will it take to recover if I keep making on-time payments?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you love America, Trump, and laughing, then today's show is the one for you! It started with Jake Tapper describing the DC bomber as a white male, even though the image next to him was a black man. This triggered the Conservative Circus 2025 racial draft. We deliver the news while we make racial draft picks. Sounds silly? It is! This is what democrats do to this country every day. Of course, we end our week with the weekly Prayer to our Heavenly Father, and we need to after this show. For the James T. Harris daily written breakdown and deeper analysis, subscribe to my Clarity Report at: https://clarityreport.beehiiv.com

There are times in these reflections and topics that we address where the best words we can offer you are that of Scripture. Our words fade away, but God ‘s Word stands forever. Once His Word goes out, it always accomplishes what God desires for it to do. David, before he was king and after, suffered at the hands of many. But the one constant we see in the life of David was no matter how far away he got, he would always return back to the truth he knew of God. No matter how prodigal David got, he always returned back to the Father's arms. Take in some of his words from Psalm 31.(Psalm 31:1-5, 6b-10, 14-15a, 16-17a, 19-21a, 22b-24 NLT) O Lord, I have come to you for protection; don't let me be disgraced. Save me, for you do what is right. Turn your ear to listen to me; rescue me quickly. Be my rock of protection, a fortress where I will be safe. You are my rock and my fortress. For the honor of your name, lead me out of this danger. Pull me from the trap my enemies set for me, for I find protection in you alone. I entrust my spirit into your hand. Rescue me, Lord, for you are a faithful God. … I trust in the Lord. I will be glad and rejoice in your unfailing love, for you have seen my troubles, and you care about the anguish of my soul. You have not handed me over to my enemies but have set me in a safe place. Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am in distress. Tears blur my eyes. My body and soul are withering away. I am dying from grief; my years are shortened by sadness. Sin has drained my strength; I am wasting away from within. … But I am trusting you, O Lord, saying, “You are my God!” My future is in your hands. … Let your favor shine on your servant. In your unfailing love, rescue me. Don't let me be disgraced, O Lord, for I call out to you for help. … How great is the goodness you have stored up for those who fear you. You lavish it on those who come to you for protection, blessing them before the watching world. You hide them in the shelter of your presence, safe from those who conspire against them. You shelter them in your presence, far from accusing tongues. Praise the Lord, for he has shown me the wonders of his unfailing love. … But you heard my cry for mercy and answered my call for help. Love the Lord, all you godly ones! For the Lord protects those who are loyal to him, … So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord! What phrase stood out to you? … There is a reason it did. God is speaking to you through His Word. Often in the Psalms, David went from crying out for help to worship. This season, even through any moments of grief and pain, is there something that comes to mind about how God shows you He is with you? Let's pray together: “Heavenly Father, thank You that once we know Heaven is just a matter of time here on earth. That means I am here for a purpose for the time You allow me to accomplish Your will. Please use me, use my circumstances to touch others, to reach others, and glorify You as You are Immanuel, God with me.” 

We highlight and rejoice in the closed countries where we are heard. We want you to know we remember you daily in our prayers and are blessed you listen. I struggled in the first year of my salvation in the area of prayer. Forty-five or so years ago, I neither understood, comprehended, nor apprehended that I was in a new and authentic relationship with my Creator, Savior, and Internal Companion who indwells us all. It took most of those forty years to realize the true nature of eternal life was:"And this is eternal life, that they may know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent."John 17:3How I learned that in the 20-year struggle with depression!Here is a quick outline of where we begin this episode.1. We were created for community with our Creator.2. We are born estranged (not in community) from our Creator.3. We have been recreated for the community with our Creator. 4. Our journey, peace, meaning, comfort, contentment, and abundant life are born, nurtured, and grown from our community with our Creator. 5. Heaven, eternal life, is learning to know our Creator.Our So What?And our journey in this lifetime. The peace, meaning, comfort, contentment, and abundant life we were promised and longed for are only nurtured and grown in our community with our Heavenly Father. Brethren, let's pray for one another."What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Or go to www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 008Episode 005

In this powerful moment, Pastor Gregory Dickow exposes one of the most destructive lies the enemy uses against God's people: the fear of missing out and the need for human approval. So many live under the pressure to be liked, noticed, followed, admired, or validated, but Scripture reveals a greater truth. You already have your Heavenly Father's approval. Just as God spoke over Jesus, “You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy” (Mark 1:11), He now speaks the same over you because you are in Christ.SUPPORT:You can donate to help us reach more lives around the world here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.lifechangerschurch.com/give⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WATCH ON YOUTUBE:Subscribe to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Gregory Dickow YouTube channel⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠REQUEST PRAYER:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Submit a prayer request⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and we will agree with you.CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠

Every journey of faith begins with a question of identity — not who we think we are, but who God says we are. Over the next two weeks, we're unpacking seven powerful declarations that are invitations to see ourselves through our Heavenly Father's eyes.

WORD: CONTEMPLATE This week we are studying,We Believe, The Articles of Faith and Official Declarations 1 & 2 in Come, Follow Me. You will find the word of the week, teaching tips, and more in our newsletter. Here's what to look forward to in this episode: START HERE FROM BEGINNING TIL END THE MIND OF GOD EVERY PROMISE We love studying with you! Grace and David You will find the word of the week, teaching tips, and more in our newsletter. Sign up here: www.dontmissthisstudy.com Videos can be found on YouTube: Don't Miss This Grace Freeman Instagram: @thisweeksgrace David Butler Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrdavebutler/ Instagram: @mrdavebutler Come, Follow Me is a resource offered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is designed to be used in the home to support personal and family scripture study to build faith in Heavenly Father and His plan of salvation and in the Savior Jesus Christ and His Atonement. Come, Follow Me is self-contained and adequate, when used properly. Products and materials designed to supplement this resource, though they may be helpful in some instances, are not necessary for a successful home study program.

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Good 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)YouTube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comII John  John writes to a selected lady and her children, urging them to continue walking in truth and love. He rejoices that some of them are living according to the truth, just as the Father commanded. He reminds them of the old command to love one another and explains that love is demonstrated through obedience to God's commands. John warns against deceivers who do not acknowledge that Jesus Christ came in the flesh. Such individuals are identified as antichrists. He encourages believers to be careful and not lose what they have worked for, but to remain faithful so they may receive a full reward. Anyone who does not remain in the teaching of Christ does not have God. John concludes with hope to visit soon and encourages ongoing fellowship and faithfulness.  We are encouraged to stay grounded in both truth and love. Knowing what is right isn't enough; we are called to live it out each day. Loving one another shows that we belong to God and are walking in His light. At the same time, we must be cautious of false teachings that seek to distort the truth about Jesus. We guard our hearts by holding firmly to the message we first believed and by remaining connected to the teachings of Christ. When we stay faithful, we grow closer to God and help others do the same. Let us commit to living with love, protecting truth, rejecting error, and encouraging one another to remain strong in our faith.  Heavenly Father, thank You for the truth that resides in us and will be with us forever. Help us walk faithfully in love and obedience, just as You have commanded. Grant us wisdom to recognize false teachings and the courage to stand firm in the truth of Christ. Teach us to love others deeply, showing grace and kindness in all that we do. Strengthen our hearts to remain in the teachings of Jesus, so we stay close to You and avoid being led astray. Fill us with joy, peace, and a desire to live in truth each day for Your glory.  Thought Questions: John took great joy in hearing of others walking in the truth. Who are you attached to in Christ, whose faith brings you joy and peace? Which is more important: the truth about Jesus or the love of Jesus within you? How do you make sure to feature both in your life? Who qualifies as an “antichrist”? How have you prepared to respond to someone who denies Jesus Christ as Lord?

We're exploring the heartfelt (and hilarious!) classic Home Alone. Behind the laughs and booby traps is a beautiful reminder about the power of family, forgiveness, and the love that welcomes us home—just like our Heavenly Father does. Whether you've seen it a hundred times or this is your first, tune in for a fresh message of grace and belonging.

There is a very common type of fear identified in the Bible that is not talked about much. It is the fear of man. It's a fear of people and it can include intimidation, peer pressure, social anxiety, isolation, and insecurity. The fear of man can lead us to make choices that aren't right for us or avoid making decisions at all. Main Points:1. When we are filled with the fear of man we are no longer focused on God, his presence, and his power in our lives. The fear of man leads us to a place of bondage and enslavement. We become slaves to our fears and unable to move forward.2. The fear of man asks: What do people think of me? Will they accept me? What if I'm rejected? What if they don't like what I'm doing? How can I face something like that?3. The will of God for your life is peace and rest. God's will is for you to live with confidence in your Heavenly Father's love. When we fear others we live for their approval. As believers, we are to live for the approval of God.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 29:25 - “The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.”Hebrews 13:6 - “So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”Galatians 1:10 - “For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.”Psalm 27:1 - “The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?”Proverbs 14:27 - “The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death.Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Happy Thanksgiving! In this episode, we discuss how do we actually know Heavenly Father has a physical body and what Joseph Smith taught regarding every disciple facing a “trial of Abraham”. The episode closes with Daniel H. Wells's powerful 24th July address: a reminder that early Latter-day Saints could be fiercely loyal to the Constitution and the United States while refusing to whitewash the murders, expulsions, and persecutions they suffered. We reflect on how the faith the Saints, who endured Missouri, Nauvoo, and the plains without knowing “why” can sustain modern disciples facing difficult trials.   Kristy's KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): separate rerelease of Joseph Smith's Martyrdom episodes for D&C 135     Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2027: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours Our 2026 tours are sold out, but if you would like to join us in the future here is a link to our 2027 tours: ⁠ Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

WORD: ATONEMENT This week we are studying,The Vision of the Redemption of the Dead, Doctrine and Covenants 137-138 in Come, Follow Me. You will find the word of the week, teaching tips, and more in our newsletter. Here's what to look forward to in this episode: ANYONE BOTH SMALL AND GREAT SPECIALLY PREPARED WITH MUCH DANCING We love studying with you! Grace and David You will find the word of the week, teaching tips, and more in our newsletter. Sign up here: www.dontmissthisstudy.com Videos can be found on YouTube: Don't Miss This Grace Freeman Instagram: @thisweeksgrace David Butler Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrdavebutler/ Instagram: @mrdavebutler Come, Follow Me is a resource offered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is designed to be used in the home to support personal and family scripture study to build faith in Heavenly Father and His plan of salvation and in the Savior Jesus Christ and His Atonement. Come, Follow Me is self-contained and adequate, when used properly. Products and materials designed to supplement this resource, though they may be helpful in some instances, are not necessary for a successful home study program.