Podcast appearances and mentions of Herbert Cooper

How Do I Hear The Voice of God? 6 Lessons on Hearing The Voice Of God 1. Realize God wants to speak to you John 10:27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (NIV) 1A. Every follower of Jesus can hear God’s voice 2. Eliminate the wrong voices John 10:14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me (NIV) 3. God speaks through Scripture 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 So that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (NIV) 4. God speaks through trusted voices who know the Bible 5. God speaks through peace Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. (NIV) 5A. God speaks by leading us not driving us Romans 8:14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. (NIV) 1. What can I afford? 2. What can I sacrifice? 3. What can I trust God to do through me? 6. Set time aside to hear the voice of God John 10:27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (NIV)

Romans 12:1–2 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (NIV) Luke 9:23–24 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. (NIV) Luke 14:27 And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. (NIV) 2 Components of a Living Sacrifice 1. You must leave where you are Genesis 12:1 The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you. (NLT) Genesis 12:4 4 So Abram departed as the Lord had instructed and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he left Haran. 5 He took his wife, Sarai, his nephew Lot, and all his wealth—his livestock and all the people he had taken into his household at Haran—and headed for the land of Canaan. When they arrived in Canaan, (NLT) Genesis 11:31–32 One day Terah took his son Abram, his daughter-in-law Sarai (his son Abram’s wife), and his grandson Lot (his son Haran’s child) and moved away from Ur of the Chaldeans. He was headed for the land of Canaan, but they stopped at Haran and settled there. 32 Terah lived for 205 years and died while still in Haran. (NLT) 2. You will leave when you remember the promises of God Genesis 12:2-3 2 I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. 3 I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through you.” (NLT) Everyone Committed 1. Everyone committed to attending 5 Sundays in a row: September 15 – October 13 2. Everyone committed to attending a small group for 8 weeks: September 8 – October 31 3. Everyone committed to making a 3 year commitment on October 6 4. Everyone committed to giving in the miracle offering October 13 – December 31

Ephesians 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do far MORE abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us. (NASB) 1. God first does more in you so that he can do more through you Ephesians 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, (NASB) 2. We are an everyone church 1. Everyone committed to attending 5 Sundays in a row: September 15 – October 13 2. Everyone committed to attending a small group for 8 weeks: September 8 – October 31 MORE Website: Peoples.Church/More 3. Everyone committed to making a 3 year commitment on October 6 4. Everyone committed to giving in the miracle offering October 13 – December 31

1. Casting out demons was a vital part of Jesus’ ministry Matthew 4:24- News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed; and he healed them. (NIV) Matthew 8:16- When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. (NIV) Matthew 9:32 While they were going out, a man who was demon-possessed and could not talk was brought to Jesus. (NIV) Matthew 12:22 Then they brought him a demon-possessed man who was blind and mute, and Jesus healed him, so that he could both talk and see. (NIV) Matthew 15:22 A Canaanite woman from that vicinity came to him, crying out, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is demon-possessed and suffering terribly.” (NIV) 2 Timothy 2:25–26  Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. (NIV) 2. Can Christians be demon possessed?  2A. Jesus taught that demons look for unoccupied people Matthew 12:43–45 “When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. 44 Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean and put in order. 45 Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation.” (NIV)  2B. Christians are occupied with the Holy Spirit Romans 8:9–10 But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.) 10 And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. (NLT) 1 Corinthians 3:16 Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? (NLT) 1 Corinthians 6:19 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; (NIV) 2C. Christians are instructed to resist the devil James 4:7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (NIV) 1 Peter 5:8-9 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. (NIV) 3. Can Christians be demon oppressed? 2 Corinthians 12:7 or because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. (NIV) 7 Ways You Are Giving Demons Access Into Your Life 1. Sinful anger Ephesians 4:26-27 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. (NIV) 2. Unforgiveness 2 Corinthians 2:10–11 Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, 11 in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. (NIV) 3. Exposing yourself to deceiving spirits 1 Timothy 4:1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 11:3-4 But I fear that somehow your pure and undivided devotion to Christ will be corrupted, just as Eve was deceived by the cunning ways of the serpent. 4 You happily put up with whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different kind of Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed. (NLT) 4. Movies, music, social media Matthew 6:22-23 The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, 23 But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness! (NIV) 2 Corinthians 10:5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (NIV) 5. Being idle and a busybody 1 Timothy 5:13–15 Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also busybodies who talk nonsense, saying things they ought not to. 14 So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander. 15 Some have in fact already turned away to follow Satan. (NIV) 6. Lying and deception Acts 5:3 Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? (NIV) 7. Living in sin James 4:7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 5:1–5 It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that even pagans do not tolerate: A man is sleeping with his father’s wife. 2 And you are proud! Shouldn’t you rather have gone into mourning and have put out of your fellowship the man who has been doing this? 3 For my part, even though I am not physically present, I am with you in spirit. As one who is present with you in this way, I have already passed judgment in the name of our Lord Jesus on the one who has been doing this. 4 So when you are assembled and I am with you in spirit, and the power of our Lord Jesus is present, 5 hand this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh,, so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord. (NIV) 1 John 3:8 The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. (NIV)

2 Corinthians 2:11, “In order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.” (NIV) 10 Things The Devil Doesn’t Want You to Know 1. He’s trying to deceive you 
Revelation 12:9: This great dragon—the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world—was thrown down to the earth with all his angels. (NLT) 1A. He’s trying to deceive you into believing that he doesn’t exist 1B. He’s trying to deceive you into believing right is wrong and wrong is right 2 Corinthians 11:14-15, “And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.” (NIV) Acts 13:8–10 But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith. 9 Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked straight at Elymas and said, 10 “You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the right ways of the Lord? (NIV)  1C. He’s trying to deceive you to turn away from Jesus 
2 Corinthians 11:3 “But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ”. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:1: The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. (NIV) 2. He’s constantly lying to you 
 John 8:44 “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. (NIV) 2A. He lies to you about God 2B. He lies to you about you 2C. He lies to you about people 3. He’s trying to make you a liar Acts 5:3: Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? (NIV) 4. He’s trying to devour you 
1 Peter 5:8: Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. (NIV) John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (NIV) Luke 13:11 and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. (NIV) Luke 13:16 Then should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbath day from what bound her?” (NIV) 5. He’s trying to fill you full of fear
 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (NKJV) 6. He’s constantly tempting you to sin Matthew 4:3: The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 3:5 For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith. I was afraid that in some way the tempter had tempted you and that our labors might have been in vain. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 7:5 Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. (NIV) 7. He’s attacking you with false accusations 
Revelation 12:10: "Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: 'Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.'" (NIV) 8. He’s persecuting Christians 
Revelation 2:10 “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” (NIV) 2 Timothy 3:12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, (NIV) 9. He trying to stop the work of God 1 Thessalonians 2:18 18 For we wanted to come to you—certainly I, Paul, did, again and again—but Satan blocked our way. (NIV) 10. He’s trying to keep nonbelievers from becoming believers 2 Corinthians 4:4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. (NIV) 

People's Church of OKC is a multi-cultural church designed with you in mind. Senior Pastor, Herbert Cooper.

Colossians 2:18-19 Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you. Such a person also goes into great detail about what they have seen; they are puffed up with idle notions by their unspiritual mind. 19 They have lost connection with the head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow. (NIV) 4 Insights On How To Activate Angels In Your Life 1. Be aware of the spiritual realm Ephesians 6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 4:18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 10:3–4 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. (NIV) 2. Resist demonic attacks  Daniel 6:13 Then they said to the king, “Daniel, who is one of the exiles from Judah, pays no attention to you, Your Majesty, or to the decree you put in writing. He still prays three times a day.” (NIV) Daniel 6:22 My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.” (NIV)  Matthew 4:11 Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him. (NIV) 2A. Resist with the Word of God   Matthew 4:3- 4 The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” (NIV) 
  2B. Resist with the fear of God Matthew 4:7 Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” (NIV) 6 Blessings God Gives To Those Who Fear Him 1. Wisdom Proverbs 9:10 "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." (NIV) 2. God speaks to those who fear him Psalm 25:14 "The Lord confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them." (NIV) 3. Protection for you and your children Proverbs 14:26 Those who fear the Lord are secure; he will be a refuge for their children. (NLT) 4. Life Proverbs 19:23 Fear of the Lord leads to life, bringing security and protection from harm. (NLT) 5. Prosperity Proverbs 22:4: True humility and fear of the Lord lead to riches, honor, and long life. (NLT) 6. Angelic help Psalm 34:7 "The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them." (NIV)  2C. Resist with worship Matthew 4:10-11 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” 11 Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him. (NIV) 3. Earnestly pray and seek God Acts 12:5–7 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. 6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists. (NIV) 4. Trust God at all times Psalm 91:2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” (NIV) 4A. Trust God when you’re being attacked   Psalm 91:7-12 A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. 8 You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. 9 If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling,
10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. 11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; 12 they will lift you up in their hands,
so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. (NIV) 4B. Trust God when you feel like giving up 1 Kings 19:4–6 while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” 5 Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” 6 He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again. (NIV)  4C. Trust God when you don’t want to do his will Luke 22:41–43 “He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, 42 “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” 43 An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. (NIV)

Psalm 103:20 Praise the Lord, you angels, you mighty ones who carry out his plans, listening for each of his commands. (NLT) Hebrews 1:14 Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation? (NIV) Hebrews 13:2 Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. (NIV) 8 Good Things Angels Do For God’s People 1. They can protect us Daniel 6:22 My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.” (NIV)  Exodus 23:20 “See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared. (NIV) Psalm 91:11–12 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; 12 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. (NIV)  2. They can physically direct us Genesis 19:15–16 With the coming of dawn, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Hurry! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, or you will be swept away when the city is punished.” 16 When he hesitated, the men grasped his hand and the hands of his wife and of his two daughters and led them safely out of the city, for the Lord was merciful to them. (NIV)  3. They can rescue us Acts 12:7–11 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists. 8 Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him. 9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. 10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him. 11 Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen.” (NIV) 4. They can provide for us 1 Kings 19:4–8 while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” 5 Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” 6 He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again. 7 The angel of the Lord came back a second time and touched him and said, “Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.” 8 So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.” (NIV)  5. They can strengthen us Luke 22:43 An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.  (NIV)  6. They can perform supernatural feats Luke 22:43 An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.  (NIV) Daniel 6:22 My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.” (NIV)  Acts 12:10–11 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him. 11 Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen.” (NIV) Matthew 28:2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. (NIV)   Revelation 20:1-3 And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain. 2 He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years.  3 He threw him into the Abyss, and locked and sealed it over him, to keep him from deceiving the nations anymore until the thousand years were ended. After that, he must be set free for a short time. (NIV) 7. They can fight spiritual battles on your behalf Daniel 10:12-13 12 Then he said, “Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer.  13 But for twenty-one days the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia blocked my way. Then Michael, one of the archangels, came to help me, and I left him there with the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia. (NLT) Jude 9 But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not himself dare to condemn him for slander but said, “The Lord rebuke you!”  (NIV) 2 Kings 6:16-17 “Don’t be afraid!” Elisha told him. “For there are more on our side than on theirs!” 17 Then Elisha prayed, “O LORD, open his eyes and let him see!” The LORD opened the young man’s eyes, and when he looked up, he saw that the hillside around Elisha was filled with horses and chariots of fire. (NLT) 8. They are with Jesus when He returns for His people 1 Thessalonians 4:16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. (NIV)

4 Major Types of Angels In The Bible 1. Seraphim  Isaiah 6:2-4 Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. 3 And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.”4 At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. (NIV) 2. Cherubim Genesis 3:24 After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life. (NIV) 3. Archangels 6 Facts About Archangels 1. Michael is the only archangel listed by name in the Bible (Jude 1:9) (Daniel 10:13) Daniel 10:13 But for twenty-one days the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia blocked my way. Then Michael, one of the archangels, came to help me, and I left him there with the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia (NLT) Luke 1:19 The angel said to him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. (NIV) Luke 1:26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee (NIV) 2. Michael stands guard over Israel 3. Michael directly opposes Satan Jude 1:9 But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not himself dare to condemn him for slander but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” (NIV) 4. Michael battles against evil angels including Satan 5. Michael is a military commander 6. Archangels shout a loud command when Jesus returns for His church 1 Thessalonians 4:16- For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. (NIV) 4. Guardian Angels  Psalms 91:11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; (NIV) Hebrews 1:14 Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” (NIV) Matthew 18:10 See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven. (NIV) Daniel 6:22 My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.” (NIV) Acts 12:15 “You’re out of your mind,” they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, “It must be his angel.” (NIV) 5. Angels have different rankings and power Revelation 12:7- Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. (NIV)  Peter speaks of Jesus going to Heaven and lists a hierarchy of angels: 1 Peter 3:22 who has gone into heaven and is at God’s right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him. (NIV) Job 1:6 One day the members of the heavenly court came to present themselves before the LORD, and the Accuser, Satan, came with them. (NLT) Job 2:1 One day the members of the heavenly court came again to present themselves before the LORD, and the Accuser, Satan, came with them. (NLT) Psalm 82:1 God presides over heaven’s court; he pronounces judgment on the heavenly beings: (NLT) Psalm 82:1 God has taken his place in the divine council; in the midst of the gods he holds judgment: (ESV) 6. Angels are messengers who speak to humanity Hebrews 13:2 Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. (NIV) 1. They can give us a promise from God Genesis 16:10 The angel added, “I will increase your descendants so much that they will be too numerous to count.” (NIV) 2. They can warn us Genesis 19:15 With the coming of dawn, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Hurry! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, or you will be swept away when the city is punished.” (NIV) 3. They can give us instructions Genesis 22:11 But the angel of the LORD called out to him from heaven, “Abraham! Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied. (NIV) 4. They can give us directions Acts 8:26 Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” (NIV) 5. They can encourage us Judges 6:12 When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, “The LORD is with you, mighty warrior.” (NIV) 6. They can announce God’s plan Judges 13:3 The angel of the LORD appeared to her and said, “You are barren and childless, but you are going to become pregnant and give birth to a son. (NIV) 7. They can give us the words we need to speak Zechariah 1:14 Then the angel who was speaking to me said, “Proclaim this word: This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘I am very jealous for Jerusalem and Zion, (NIV) 8. They can encourage us not to be afraid Acts 27:23–25 Last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me 24 and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.’ 25 So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me. (NIV)  9. They can help us experience salvation

Shoreline City Church:  Join us for this inspiring sermon as we delve into how overcoming life's tests and challenges can lead to spiritual growth and promotion. Learn from biblical examples and gain practical insights to strengthen your faith and perseverance.JESUS FIRST: We've been praying for you! If you made the decision to put Jesus first, text “JESUS” to 73000.CONNECT GROUPSThis is for YOU! Be a friend, make a friend! Don't do life alone. We believe that in order to grow spiritually, we must be connected relationally.   http://shoreline.city/groupsYou're invited to Host or JOIN a group this season! Text "GROUPS" to 73000 JOINDo you want to officially join Shoreline City? Do you want to make Shoreline City your church home? Are you ready to volunteer with the Serve Team? JOIN is how you do it.  PRAYERWe believe there isn't anything too small or too big to bring to God. It would be our honor to pray with you. Text “PRAYER” to 73000GIVE: Thank you for your generosity. To continue to support and help us make it on earth as it is in heaven, click here: http://shorelinecity.church/give STAY CONNECTEDWebsite: http://shorelinecity.church Instagram: http://instagarm.com/shoreline_cityFacebook: http://facebook.com/shorelinecity Pastor Earl: http://instagram.com/earlmcclellanPastor Oneka: http://instagram.com/onekamcclellan

The weekly podcast of Journey Church, by Pastor JJ Vasquez. 

People's Church of OKC is a multi-cultural church designed with you in mind. Senior Pastor, Herbert Cooper.

1 Samuel 24:3–7 He came to the sheep pens along the way; a cave was there, and Saul went in to relieve himself. David and his men were far back in the cave. 4 The men said, “This is the day the Lord spoke of when he said to you, ‘I will give your enemy into your hands for you to deal with as you wish.’ ” Then David crept up unnoticed and cut off a corner of Saul’s robe. 5 Afterward, David was conscience-stricken for having cut off a corner of his robe. 6 He said to his men, “The Lord forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed, or lay my hand on him; for he is the anointed of the Lord.” 7 With these words David sharply rebuked his men and did not allow them to attack Saul. And Saul left the cave and went his way. (NIV) 1 Samuel 26:7–10 So David and Abishai went to the army by night, and there was Saul, lying asleep inside the camp with his spear stuck in the ground near his head. Abner and the soldiers were lying around him. 8 Abishai said to David, “Today God has delivered your enemy into your hands. Now let me pin him to the ground with one thrust of the spear; I won’t strike him twice.” 9 But David said to Abishai, “Don’t destroy him! Who can lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed and be guiltless? 10 As surely as the Lord lives,” he said, “the Lord himself will strike him, or his time will come and he will die, or he will go into battle and perish. (NIV) 2 Samuel 9:1 David asked, “Is there anyone still left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” (NIV) 2 Samuel 9:7 “Don’t be afraid,” David said to him, “for I will surely show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land that belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will always eat at my table.” (NIV) 5 Ways To Turn Your Pain Into Purpose 1. Pray for those who hurt you Matthew 5:44 But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, (NKJV) Hebrews 12:14 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. (NIV) 2. Forgive those who hurt you Matthew 6:14–15 For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. (NIV) 3. Talk to the person not about the person Matthew 18:15–17 “If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. 16 But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses. 17 If the person still refuses to listen, take your case to the church. Then if he or she won’t accept the church’s decision, treat that person as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector. (NLT) Ephesians 4:31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. (NLT) 4. Do good to the people who hurt you Matthew 5:44 But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, (NKJV) Romans 12:14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. (NIV) Romans 12:19–20 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”  (NIV) 5. Let God heal your heart Psalm 34:18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (NIV) Psalm 34:18 If your heart is broken, you’ll find God right there; if you’re kicked in the gut, he’ll help you catch your breath. (MSG) Psalm 30:2 Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me. (NIV)

2 Corinthians 8:21 For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man. (NIV) Galatians 1:10 Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. (NIV) 1. Distracted by the approval of people 1 Samuel 16:5 Samuel replied, “Yes, in peace; I have come to sacrifice to the Lord. Consecrate yourselves and come to the sacrifice with me.” Then he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice. (NIV) 1 Samuel 16:11 So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.” Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.” (NIV) 1 Samuel 17:33 Saul replied, “You are not able to go out against this Philistine and fight him; you are only a young man, and he has been a warrior from his youth.” (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 2:4 On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. (NIV) 2. Distracted by what others possess 3. Distracted by the harsh words of people  1 Samuel 17:28–29  When Eliab, David’s oldest brother, heard him speaking with the men, he burned with anger at him and asked, “Why have you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the wilderness? I know how conceited you are and how wicked your heart is; you came down only to watch the battle.” 29 “Now what have I done?” said David. “Can’t I even speak?” (NIV) 1 Samuel 17:42–44 He looked David over and saw that he was little more than a boy, glowing with health and handsome, and he despised him. 43 He said to David, “Am I a dog, that you come at me with sticks?” And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. 44 “Come here,” he said, “and I’ll give your flesh to the birds and the wild animals!” (NIV) 1 Samuel 17:45–47 David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. This very day I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. 47 All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.” (NIV) 4. Distracted by the requests of people 1 Samuel 17:38–40 Then Saul dressed David in his own tunic. He put a coat of armor on him and a bronze helmet on his head. 39 David fastened on his sword over the tunic and tried walking around, because he was not used to them. “I cannot go in these,” he said to Saul, “because I am not used to them.” So he took them off. 40 Then he took his staff in his hand, chose five smooth stones from the stream, put them in the pouch of his shepherd’s bag and, with his sling in his hand, approached the Philistine. (NIV) Galatians 1:10 Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. (NIV)

1. The preparation process develops your calling   2. The preparation process develops your anointing  1 Samuel 16:13 So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah. (NIV) 2 Samuel 5:10 And he became more and more powerful, because the Lord God Almighty was with him. (NIV) 3. The preparation process develops your character  Psalms 78:72- And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them. (NIV) 4. The preparation process develops your skills Psalms 78:72 And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them. (NIV) 5. The preparation process develops your relationships  1 Samuel 19:1–2 Saul told his son Jonathan and all the attendants to kill David. But Jonathan had taken a great liking to David 2 and warned him, “My father Saul is looking for a chance to kill you. Be on your guard tomorrow morning; go into hiding and stay there. (NIV) 6. The preparation process develops your confidence  1 Samuel 17:36–37 Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. 37 The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” Saul said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with you.” (NIV)

You may be passionate about God, but how do you come across to the people around you? Herbert Cooper is the pastor of People's Church in Oklahoma City. He shares about his journey to be a better leader, including learning to lead himself well. He shares some of the daily disciplines and spiritual secrets that have allowed him to thrive in his family life and ministry. Check out Herbert's book ”But God: Changes Everything” Pick up Matt's book "Truth Plus Love" For more from Matt Brown, and to receive our free gift "5 Keys to Find Fulfillment in God" go to: Thinke.org

Isaiah 44:2 This is what the LORD says— he who made you, who formed you in the womb, and who will help you: Do not be afraid, Jacob, my servant, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen. (NIV) Isaiah 49:1 Listen to me, you islands; hear this, you distant nations: Before I was born the LORD called me; from my mother’s womb he has spoken my name. (NIV) Isaiah 49:5 And now the LORD speaks— the one who formed me in my mother’s womb to be his servant, who commissioned me to bring Israel back to him. The LORD has honored me, and my God has given me strength. (NLT) Job 14:5 A person’s days are determined; you have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed. (NIV) Jeremiah 1:5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” (NIV) Galatians 1:15 But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased (NIV) Jeremiah 10:23 LORD, I know that people’s lives are not their own; it is not for them to direct their steps. (NIV) Psalm 40:5 Many, LORD my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare. (NIV) Psalm 139:13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. (NIV) Psalm 139:16 Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. (NIV) 1 Samuel 16:1 The LORD said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king.” (NIV) Psalm 75:7 It is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another. (NIV) Psalm 22:9 Yet you brought me out of the womb; you made me trust in you, even at my mother’s breast. (NIV) Psalm 71:6 From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother’s womb. I will ever praise you. (NIV) Acts 13:36 “Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed. (NIV) 1 Samuel 16:5 Samuel replied, “Yes, in peace; I have come to sacrifice to the LORD. Consecrate yourselves and come to the sacrifice with me.” Then he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice. (NIV) 1 Samuel 16:11 So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.” Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.” (NIV) 1 Samuel 16:13 So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah. (NIV) 1 Samuel 16:19 Then Saul sent messengers to Jesse and said, “Send me your son David, who is with the sheep.” (NIV) Acts 13:36 “Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed. (NIV)

John 20:11–14 “Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb 12 and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. 13 They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” 14 At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. (NIV) 3 Obstacles That Cause People To Miss Jesus 1. Your emotions can cause you to miss Jesus John 20:13 “They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” (NIV) 2. Your disappointment can cause you to miss Jesus  John 20:15 “He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.”  (NIV) 3. Your confusion can cause you to miss Jesus Ecclesiastes 11:5 As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things. (NIV) John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (NIV) John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (NIV) John 20:16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). NIV) John 20:17-18 Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” 18 Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.” (NIV)

Proverbs 19:3 People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the Lord. (NLT) Philippians 4:19 And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. (NIV) Luke 12:31 But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. (NIV) Malachi 3:10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! (NLT) 2 Kings 4:1 The wife of a man from the company of the prophets cried out to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that he revered the Lord. But now his creditor is coming to take my two boys as his slaves.” (NIV) 3 Mindset Shifts You Have To Make To Own Your Finances  1. Own the overwhelmed mindset 2. Own the poverty mindset  2 Kings 4:2  Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” “Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.” (NIV) 3. Own the “This is too much work” mindset 2 Kings 4:3–7 3 Elisha said, “Go around and ask all your neighbors for empty jars. Don’t ask for just a few. 4 Then go inside and shut the door behind you and your sons. Pour oil into all the jars, and as each is filled, put it to one side.”5 She left him and shut the door behind her and her sons. They brought the jars to her and she kept pouring. 6 When all the jars were full, she said to her son, “Bring me another one.” But he replied, “There is not a jar left.” Then the oil stopped flowing. 7 She went and told the man of God, and he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debts. You and your sons can live on what is left.” (NIV) Work The Biblical Plan 1. Track your income and your spending 2. Save $1,000 in an emergency fund 3. Pay off your consumer debt from smallest to largest 4. Save 3 to 6 months in an emergency fund 5. Start tithing now 6. Live with margin

Own Your Mistakes 1. Own admitting your mistakes  Luke 15:18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. (NIV) 2. Own knowing where you are and how you got there Luke 15:17 “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! (NIV) 3. Own seeing how your life can be different  4. Own taking the steps to change your life Luke 15:20 So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. (NIV) Proverbs 24:16 The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. But one disaster is enough to overthrow the wicked. (NLT) 5. Own receiving the grace and forgiveness of God Luke 15:20-23 So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. 21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate (NIV) Luke 15:28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. (NIV) Luke 15:30  But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’ (NIV)

People's Church of OKC is a multi-cultural church designed with you in mind. Senior Pastor, Herbert Cooper.

1 Kings 19:1-4 Now Ahab told Jezebel everything Elijah had done and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. 2 So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah to say, “May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like that of one of them.” 3 Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beershebain Judah, he left his servant there, 4 while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” (NIV) 6 Habits To Owning Your Health 1. Own recognizing the warning signs of being emotionally unhealthy 2. Own evaluating how you got where you are 3. Own listening to spiritual guidance  1 Kings 19:7 The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, “Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.” (NIV)  4. Own doing the practical things 1 Kings 19:5-7 Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” 6 He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again. 7 The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, “Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.” (NIV) 5. Own pursuing the presence of God 1 Kings 19:9-13 There he went into a cave and spent the night. And the word of the LORD came to him: “What are you doing here, Elijah?” 10 He replied, “I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.” 11 The LORD said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. 13 When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Then a voice said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” (NIV) 6. Own pursuing God’s purpose for your life 1 Kings 19:15-16 The LORD said to him, “Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. 16 Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet. (NIV) Philippians 2:12 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; (NASB)

Own Your Relationships Genesis 2:18 The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” (NIV) 3 Things That Keep You From Owning The Building and Maintaining Of Your Relationships 1. Pain 2. Problems 3. People
 4 Lessons You Learn From Ruth On How To Own Your Friendships 1. Press through pain Ruth 1:8–10 Then Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, “Go back, each of you, to your mother’s home. May the Lord show you kindness, as you have shown kindness to your dead husbands and to me. 9 May the Lord grant that each of you will find rest in the home of another husband.” Then she kissed them goodbye and they wept aloud 10 and said to her, “We will go back with you to your people.” (NIV) 2. Be committed Ruth 1:11–18 But Naomi said, “Return home, my daughters. Why would you come with me? Am I going to have any more sons, who could become your husbands? 12 Return home, my daughters; I am too old to have another husband. Even if I thought there was still hope for me—even if I had a husband tonight and then gave birth to sons - 13 Would you wait until they grew up? Would you remain unmarried for them? No, my daughters. It is more bitter for me than for you, because the Lord’s hand has turned against me!” 114 At this they wept aloud again. Then Orpah kissed her mother-in-law goodbye, but Ruth clung to her. “15 Look,” said Naomi, “your sister-in-law is going back to her people and her gods. Go back with her.” 16 But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. 17 Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.” 18 When Naomi realized that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped urging her. (NIV)  Ephesians 4:2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (NIV) Colossians 3:13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. (NIV) 3. Have realistic expectations 4. God’s plan for your life is connected to people

Own your Relationship with God Philippians 2:12–13 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. (NIV) 6 Ways To Own Your Relationship With God 1. You have to own your sin Psalms 51:3-4 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.  For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge. (NIV) Psalms 51:9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. (NIV) Psalms 32:5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.” And you forgave the guilt of my sin. (NIV) 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (NIV) 2. You have to own repenting before God Psalms 51:2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. (NIV) Psalms 51:7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. (NIV) 3. You have to own prayer 4. You have to own your desperation for the presence of God Psalms 51:11 Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. (NIV) 5. You have to own worshiping God Psalms 51:14-15 Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God, you who are God my Savior, and my tongue will sing of your righteousness 15 Open my lips, Lord, and my mouth will declare your praise. (NIV) Psalm 34:1 I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. (NKJV) 6. You have to own your spiritual growth Psalms 51:10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. (NIV) Psalms 51:12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. (NIV) For One Year Run The Spiritual Play 1. Faithfully pray and read God’s word 2. Worship in God’s house faithfully 3. Give your life away by serving others faithfully 4. Grow closer to God and others by attending a small group faithfully Psalms 51:13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways so that sinners will turn back to you. (NIV)

Own It: I Will Own My Life Genesis 3:11–13 “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?” 12 The man said, “The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.”13 Then the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this you have done?” The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.” (NIV)  Matthew 11:12 from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. (NKJV) Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (NKJV) Philippians 2:12 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; (NASB) 3 Common Excuses That Will Keep From Owning it 1. Complaining  Philippians 2:14 Do everything without complaining and arguing, (NLT) 2. Arguing   Philippians 2:14 Do everything without complaining and arguing, (NLT) 3. Blaming  Philippians 2:15 so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.”  Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky (NIV)

John 3:19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. (NIV) John 8:12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (NIV) 1. Light invades darkness John 8:10-11 Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" 11 "No one, sir," she said. "Then neither do I condemn you," (NIV) John 3:17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (NIV) 2. Light pushes back the darkness John 8:11-12 "No one, sir," she said. "Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin." 12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (NIV) 3. Light brings life John 8:12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (NIV) John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (NIV) 1 John 5:12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. (NIV)

John 3:19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. (NIV) 1. People love darkness 4 Things You Need To Understand About Darkness 1a. Darkness can be fun 1b. Darkness can be deceptive James 1:14-16 but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. 16 Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. (NIV) 1c. Darkness can create fear John 3:20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. (NIV) 2. Run to the the light John 3:21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God." (NIV) John 3:17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (NIV)

1. The principle of the heart 2 Corinthians 8:1–3 And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. 2 In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. 3 For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, (NIV) Luke 12:15–21 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” 16 And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. 17 He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’ 18 Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. 19 And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.” “20 But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ ”21 This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.” (NIV) 2. The principle of eternity Philippians 3:18–19 For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. (NIV) Mark 10:21–22 Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 22 At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth. (NIV) Luke 12:33 “Sell your possessions and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! And the purses of heaven never get old or develop holes. Your treasure will be safe; no thief can steal it and no moth can destroy it. (NLT) 3. The principle of life change Matthew 6:19–20 “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. (NLT) Edmond testimony video: 4. The principle of tithe and offering Malachi 3:8–10 8 “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ “In tithes and offerings. 9You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. 10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. (NIV) 5. The principle of the seed 1. You reap what you sow 2. You reap after you sow 3. You reap more than you sow 4. You reap in proportion to what you sow 2 Corinthians 9:6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. (NIV)

You Are Stuck In A Season You Shouldn’t Be In Ecclesiastes 3:1 For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. (NLT) Exodus 3:17 And I have promised to bring you up out of your misery in Egypt into the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites—a land flowing with milk and honey.’ (NIV) 1. They did not believe God’s word and God’s promises Numbers 14:11 The Lord said to Moses, “How long will these people treat me with contempt? (Despise, reject me) How long will they refuse to believe in me, in spite of all the signs I have performed among them? (NIV) 2. They grumbled and complained against the Lord Numbers 14:26-29 The Lord said to Moses and Aaron: 27 “How long will this wicked community grumble against me? I have heard the complaints of these grumbling Israelites. 28 So tell them, ‘As surely as I live, declares the Lord, I will do to you the very thing I heard you say: 29 In this wilderness your bodies will fall—every one of you twenty years old or more who was counted in the census and who has grumbled against me. (NIV) Joshua 5:12 The manna stopped the day after they ate this food from the land; there was no longer any manna for the Israelites, but that year they ate the produce of Canaan. (NIV) 1. From manna to maturity  2 Peter 3:18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (NIV) Ephesians 4:15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— (NKJV) 2. From manna to management Deuteronomy 8:4 Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years. (NIV) 3. From manna to movement  Deuteronomy 1:8 See, I have given you this land. Go in and take possession of the land the Lord swore he would give to your fathers—to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob—and to their descendants after them.” (NIV) 4 Moves To Make So You Can Live In The Promised Land 1. You have to remove some things from your life Joshua 5:6-8 The Israelites had moved about in the wilderness forty years until all the men who were of military age when they left Egypt had died, since they had not obeyed the Lord. For the Lord had sworn to them that they would not see the land he had solemnly promised their ancestors to give us, a land flowing with milk and honey. 7So he raised up their sons in their place, and these were the ones Joshua circumcised. They were still uncircumcised because they had not been circumcised on the way. 8 And after the whole nation had been circumcised, they remained where they were in camp until they were healed. (NIV) 2. You have to march around some walls 3. You have to fight some battles Joshua 6:5 When you hear them sound a long blast on the trumpets, have the whole army give a loud shout; then the wall of the city will collapse and the army will go up, everyone straight in.” (NIV) 4. You have to give to God what belongs to him Joshua 6:16–19 The seventh time around, when the priests sounded the trumpet blast, Joshua commanded the army, “Shout! For the Lord has given you the city! 17 The city and all that is in it are to be devoted to the Lord. Only Rahab the prostitute and all who are with her in her house shall be spared, because she hid the spies we sent. 18 But keep away from the devoted things, so that you will not bring about your own destruction by taking any of them. Otherwise you will make the camp of Israel liable to destruction and bring trouble on it. 19 All the silver and gold and the articles of bronze and iron are sacred to the Lord and must go into his treasury.” (NIV)

People's Church of OKC is a multi-cultural church designed with you in mind. Senior Pastor, Herbert Cooper.

Your Miracle Requires Movement Mark 5:24–29 So Jesus went with him. A large crowd followed and pressed around him. 25 And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28 because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” 29 Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering. (NIV) 1. Press past pain 2. Press past disappointment 3. Press past religion 4. Press past people 1. Press past negative influences 2. Press past doubters 3. Press past haters 4. Press past yourself

1. Worship is a COMMAND 2 Chronicles 20:18 Then King Jehoshaphat bowed low with his face to the ground. And all the people of Judah and Jerusalem did the same, worshiping the LORD. (NLT) Psalms 95:6 Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; (NIV) Psalms 99:9 Exalt the LORD our God and worship at his holy mountain, for the LORD our God is holy. (NIV) Psalms 100:2 Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. (NIV) 2 Chronicles 20:21 After consulting the people, the king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the LORD and praising him for his holy splendor. This is what they sang: “Give thanks to the LORD; his faithful love endures forever!” (NLT)  2. Worship CREATES an atmosphere for the miraculous 2A. Worship creates an atmosphere where God shows up  2 Chronicles 20:22 At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the LORD caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves... (NLT) 2B. Worship creates an atmosphere where God shows off 2 Chronicles 20:22 At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the LORD caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves. (NLT) 2C. Worship creates an atmosphere where the enemy is shut down   2 Chronicles 20:23-24 The armies of Moab and Ammon turned against their allies from Mount Seir and killed every one of them. After they had destroyed the army of Seir, they began attacking each other. 24 So when the army of Judah arrived at the lookout point in the wilderness, all they saw were dead bodies lying on the ground as far as they could see. Not a single one of the enemy had escaped. (NLT) Psalm 8:2 Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger. (NIV) 2D. Worship creates an atmosphere for freedom 2 Corinthians 3:17 For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. (NLT) 2E. Worship creates an atmosphere for provision 2 Chronicles 20:25-26 King Jehoshaphat and his men went out to gather the plunder. They found vast amounts of equipment, clothing, and other valuables—more than they could carry. There was so much plunder that it took them three days just to collect it all! 16 On the fourth day they gathered in the Valley of Blessing, which got its name that day because the people praised and thanked the LORD there. It is still called the Valley of Blessing today. (NLT) 3. Worship Must Be Continuous 2 Chronicles 20:27-28 Then all the men returned to Jerusalem, with Jehoshaphat leading them, overjoyed that the LORD had given them victory over their enemies. 28 They marched into Jerusalem to the music of harps, lyres, and trumpets, and they proceeded to the Temple of the LORD. (NLT)   Hebrews 13:15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. (NIV) Psalms 34:1 I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. (NKJV) Psalms 71:8 My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long. (NIV) 3a. Don’t let the battle steal your worship 3b. Don’t let people steal your worship 3c.  Don’t let pride steal your worship 3d. Don’t let feelings steal your worship 3e.  Don’t let success steal your worship

2 Corinthians 12:8 - 8 Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. (NLT) 2 Corinthians 12:9 - 9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.”  (NLT) 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 - So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. 10 That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (NLT) 1. Trust Him Prov. 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 5:6-8 - 6 So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, 7 for we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. (ESV) Romans 10:17 - Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. (NIV) 2. Don’t miss all of the little miracles while waiting on your big one. 3. Keep praying and praising while He’s working. Romans 8:28 - 28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[i] have been called according to his purpose. (NIV)

MIRACLE IN MOTION MARK 2:1-6 When Jesus returned to Capernaum several days later, the news spread quickly that he was back home. 2 Soon the house where he was staying was so packed with visitors that there was no more room, even outside the door. While he was preaching God’s word to them, 3 four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a mat. 4 They couldn’t bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, so they dug a hole through the roof above his head. Then they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus. 5 Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My child, your sins are forgiven.” (NLT) MARK 2:10 Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, 11 “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!” (NLT) MIRACLES CREATE KINGDOM MOMENTUM THAT CANNOT BE CONTAINED MARK 2:1-2 When Jesus returned to Capernaum several days later, the news spread quickly that he was back home. 2 Soon the house where he was staying was so packed with visitors that there was no more room, even outside the door. (NLT) MATTHEW 4:24-25 From there He went all over Galilee. He used synagogues for meeting places and taught people the truth of God. God’s kingdom was His theme – that beginning right now they were under God’s government, a good government. He also healed people of their diseases and of the bad effects of their bad lives. Word got out around the entire province of Syria. People brought anybody with a sickness, whether mental, emotional, or physical. Jesus healed them one and all, More and more people cam, the momentum gathering. (MSG) MIRACLES HAPPEN WHEN THE HEALER FINDS A HELPER MARK 2:3 …four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a mat. (NLT) JOHN 14:12-14“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. 13 You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. 14 Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it! MIRACLES WILL REQUIRE YOU TO RAISE THE ROOF MARK 2:4 And when they could not come near Him because of the crowd, they uncovered the roof where He was. So when they had broken through, they let down the bed on which the paralytic was lying. (NKJV) MIRACLES ARE PROOF THAT GOD CAN TURN PAIN INTO PURPOSE MARK 2:5 Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My child, your sins are forgiven.” (NLT) MARK 2:10 Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, 11 “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!” (NLT) GENESIS 50:20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. (NLT)

1. Pray for healing 1A. Pray to the Father in Jesus name John 16:23 In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. (NIV) (There is power and authority in the name of Jesus) John 14:12-14 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. 13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. (NIV) 1B. Pray specifically Matthew 20:32-34 Jesus stopped and called them. “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. 33 “Lord,” they answered, “we want our sight.”34 Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him. (NIV) 1C. Pray with faith  Mark 11:22-24 “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. 23 “Truly  I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. (NIV)  1D. Pray with other Christ Followers Matthew 18:19-20 “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (NIV) 2. The gift of healing 1 Corinthians 12:9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, (NIV) 3. Command Healing  Luke 18:42-43 Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has healed you.” 43 Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God. (NIV) Acts 9:33-34 There he found a man named Aeneas, who was paralyzed and had been bedridden for eight years. 34 “Aeneas,” Peter said to him, “Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and roll up your mat.” Immediately Aeneas got up. (NIV) 4. Instruct with an act of faith Matthew 12:13 Then he said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” So he stretched it out and it was completely restored, just as sound as the other. (NIV) Luke 17:12-14 As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance 13 and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” 14 When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. (NIV) John 9:6-7 After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. 7 “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means “Sent”). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing. (NIV) 5. Rebuke any demons causing sickness 5A. Sin and sickness entered our world because of the fall of Adam and Eve 5B. Some sickness is because of sin John 9:2 His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” (NIV) 5C. Some sickness is so the glory of God can be revealed John 9:3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him. (NIV) 5D. Some sickness is because of demonic influence Luke 11:14 Jesus was driving out a demon that was mute. When the demon left, the man who had been mute spoke, and the crowd was amazed. (NIV)  Matthew 17:14–15 When they came to the crowd, a man approached Jesus and knelt before him. 15 “Lord, have mercy on my son,” he said. “He has seizures and is suffering greatly. He often falls into the fire or into the water. (NIV) Matthew 17:18 Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed at that moment. (NIV) 6. Laying hands on the sick Deuteronomy 34:9 Now Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him. So the Israelites listened to him and did what the LORD had commanded Moses. (NIV) Matthew 8:3 Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. (NIV) Mark 1:41-42 Moved with compassion, Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed.” 42 Immediately the leprosy left him and he was cleansed. (NASB1995) Mark 7:33 After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears. Then he spit and touched the man’s tongue. (NIV) Luke 22:51 But Jesus answered and said, “Stop! No more of this.” And He touched his ear and healed him. (NASB) Luke 4:40 When the sun was setting, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them. (NIV 1984) Acts 28:8 His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. (NIV) 7. Anoint with oil James 5:14-15 Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. (NIV) 8. Pray again Mark 8:23-25 He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man’s eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?” 24 He looked up and said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.” 25 Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. (NIV)

Matthew 9:22 Jesus turned and saw her. “Take heart, daughter,” he said, “your faith has healed you.” And the woman was healed at that moment. (NIV). Matthew 9:29 Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you”; (NIV) (the blind received their sight miracle!)  Matthew 15:28 Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed at that moment. (NIV). Mark 10:52 “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road. (NIV) Acts 14:9 He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed (NIV) Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for and assurance about what we do not see. (NIV) James 2:19 “You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.” (NIV) 1. You have faith in God when it’s accompanied with action James 2:17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. (NIV) 2. You are saved through faith  Ephesians 2:8-9  For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—9 not by works, so that no one can boast. (NIV) 3. You cannot please God without faith  Hebrews 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (NIV) 4. You have been given a measure of faith A. Every Christ follower has been given a measure of faith at salvation. Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. (NKJV) 5. You can develop your faith by hearing God’s word Romans 10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (NKJV)  James 1:22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (NKJV) 6. You can develop your faith by withstanding tests  James 1:2-3 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance (NIV) 7. You fight by faith 1 Timothy 6:12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. (NIV) 8. You are protected by faith Ephesians 6:16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. (NIV) 9. You are called to live by faith  Romans 1:17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” (NKJV) 2 Corinthians 5:7 For we live by faith, not by sight. (NIV) 10. You can miss out on miracles by having a lack of faith  Mathew 13:58- And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith. (NIV) 11. You can move mountains with small faith  Matthew 17:20 He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (NIV)

James 4:2 You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. (NIV) 6 Reasons We Don’t Ask God 1. Because God already knows my needs Matthew 6:8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. (NIV)  John 16:24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete. (NIV) 1a. You don’t believe God will help you Mark 6:5–6 And because of their unbelief, he couldn’t do any miracles among them except to place his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6 And he was amazed at their unbelief. (NLT) 1b. Pride 2 Chronicles 16:12 In the thirty-ninth year of his reign Asa was afflicted with a disease in his feet. Though his disease was severe, even in his illness he did not seek help from the LORD, but only from the physicians. (NIV) 1c. Unworthy feelings  Hebrews 4:15–16 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. 16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. (NLT) 1d. Disappointment Luke 18:1 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. (NIV) 2. Asking is Biblical Mark 11:24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. (NIV) Matthew 21:22 If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” (NIV) Matthew 7:11- If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! (NIV) Matthew 9:38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. (NIV) Matthew 18:19 Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. (NIV) Matthew 7:7-8 Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. (NIV) 3. Ask with the right motives  James 4:3-4 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. 4 You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. (NIV) 3A. Motived by selfishness and worldliness 3B. Motivated by your will 1 John 5:14 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. (NIV) 4. Ask with Faith Hebrews 11:5 By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.” For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. (NIV)  Hebrews 11:11 And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she considered him faithful who had made the promise. (NIV) Hebrews 11:29 By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to do so, they were drowned. (NIV) Matthew 9:2 Some men brought to him a paralyzed man, lying on a mat. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” (NIV) Matthew 9:22 Jesus turned and saw her. “Take heart, daughter,” he said, “your faith has healed you.” And the woman was healed at that moment. (NIV) Matthew 9:29 Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you”; (NIV) Matthew 15:28 Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed at that moment. (NIV). Mark 10:52 “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road. (NIV) Acts 14:9 He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed (NIV) REVIEW: 1. You don’t receive a miracle because you don’t ask God 1a. God already knows my needs 1b. You don’t believe God will help you 1c. Pride 1d. Unworthy feelings 1e. Disappointment 2. Asking is biblical 3. Ask with the right motives  4. Ask with faith

The One Ingredient You Need For A Miracle 1. Humanity needed a home Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. (NIV) 2. Abraham and Sarah needed a son Genesis 21:1-2 Now the LORD was gracious to Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did for Sarah what he had promised. 2 Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him. (NIV) 3. Moses needed God’s clarity on his calling   Exodus 3:2- There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. (NIV) 4. The Israelites needed deliverance 5. The Israelites needed divine direction 6. The Israelites needed food and water 7. The Israelites needed victory over their enemy 8. Jonah needed radical repentance Jonah 2:10 And the LORD commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land. (NIV)  9. A widow needed her resources multiplied 10. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abendego needed protection Daniel 3:25 He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.” (NIV) NEW TESTAMENT 1. People needed physical healing 1a. The deaf needed to hear and the mute to speak 1b. The blind needed to see 1c. A man had a withered hand 1d. A woman had a blood issue 1e. Lazarus needed to be raised from the dead 2. The disciples needed a miracle at their job 3. People were demon possessed 4. The disciples were in a storm

How to Recognize God’s Voice Galatians 5:16-17 (NLT)  16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. 3 Dangerous Voices: 1. Voice of the flesh Galatians 5:17 – The sinful nature wants to do evil. – NLT Proverbs 14:12 - You may think you are on the right road and still end up dead. CEV 2. Voice of the world 1 John 2:16 - For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. NIV 3. Voice of the devil John 8:44 - He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. NLT Romans 8:14 - For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. NLT Luke 4:1 Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, NIV John 16:13 - 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. ESV 2 Ways the Holy Spirit speaks: 1. He speaks through God’s Word. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. NIV Psalm 119:105 - Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. NIV 2. He speaks directly to your heart. a. Whisper b. Peace c. Check in your spirit d. Prophetically

The #1 Reason You’re Not Growing 1 Peter 1:23 For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. (NIV) 1 John 3:9 No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. (NIV) Galatians 5:16–23 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (NIV) 9 Characteristics Of The Fruit Of The Spirit 1. Love: 2. Joy: 3. Peace: 4. Patience: 5. Kindness: 6. Goodness: Luke 6:27 “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, (NIV) Titus 2:14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. (NIV) Romans 12:21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (NIV) Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (NIV) 7. Faithfulness 1 Corinthians 4:2 Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. (ESV) Revelation 2:10 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown. (NIV) Matthew 25:21 The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together”. (NLT) 8. Gentleness  Matthew 11:29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (NIV) Ephesians 4:2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 10:1 By the humility and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am “timid” when face to face with you, but “bold” toward you when away! (NIV) Philippians 4:5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. (NIV) Titus 3:2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone (NIV) 9. Self-Control 2 Timothy 1:7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. (ESV) Titus 2:11–12 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, (NIV) 1 Peter 4:7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. (ESV) John 15:1-10 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. 9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. (NIV) 1 Peter 1:14 So you must live as God’s obedient children. Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn’t know any better then. (NLT) 9 Ways To Remain So Your Fruit Grows 1. Remain in the word John 15:7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. (NIV) 2. Remain in prayer Colossians 4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. (NIV) 3. Remain in church Hebrews 10:25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. (NLT) 4. Remain in small groups 5. Remain in serving 1 Peter 4:10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. (NIV) 6. Remain in generosity 1 Corinthians 16:2 On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. (NIV) 7. Remain in the love of God John 15:9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. (NIV) 8. Remain in the pruning process John 15:1-2 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. (NIV) 9. Remain in obedience John 15:10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. (NIV)

Are You Led By Flesh Or Fruit? 1 Peter 1:23 For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. (NIV) 1 John 3:9 No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. (NIV) Galatians 5:16–23 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (NIV) Illustration: Dirty water in a glass. 3 Interesting Facts About The Fruit Of The Spirit 1. Christ followers do not have all the gifts of the Spirit but do have all the fruit of the Spirit 1 Corinthians 12:7 A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other. (NLT) 1 Corinthians 12:11 It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have. (NLT) 2. They are called the fruit of the Spirit not the fruits of the Spirit Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (NIV) 3. Your fruit matters to God and it should matter to you Matthew 7:17–20 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. (NIV) Matthew 12:33 “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. (NIV) Luke 6:43–44 “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. 44 Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. (NIV) 9 Characteristics Of The Fruit Of The Spirit 1. Love  Romans 5:8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. (NLT) John 13:34-35 “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. 35 Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” (NLT) 1 Corinthians 16:14 Let all that you do be done in love. (ESV) 1 Peter 4:8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. (ESV) Colossians 3:14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. (ESV) Romans 12:10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. (NIV) 2. Joy Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. (ESV) Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (ESV) 3. Peace 4. Patience Hebrews 6:12 We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. (NIV) 5. Kindness Ephesians 4:32 Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. (ESV) Colossians 3:12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. (NIV) The Fruit Evaluator: Rate yourself from 1 to 10 (1 being poor and 10 being great) Love 1 to 10 Joy 1 to 10 Peace 1 to 10
 Patience 1 to 10 Kindness 1 to 10

What Is Speaking In Tongues? Revelation 3:15–16 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. (NIV) Revelation 3:20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. (NIV) Hebrews 6:11–12 11 Our great desire is that you will keep on loving others as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true. 12 Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God’s promises because of their faith and endurance. (NLT) 1. Step of salvation 2. Step of baptism in water 3. Step of baptism of the Holy Spirit 4. Step of being continually filled with the Holy Spirit 5. Step of growing in the fruit of the Spirit 6. Step of the gifts of the Holy Spirit 7. Step of daily prayer and bible reading 8. Step of obeying God’s word 9. Step of growing in sanctification 10. Step of stepping out in faith 11. Step of serving others 12. Step of tithing and giving 13. Step of attending a small group Acts 1:4–5 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” (NIV) Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (NIV) John 20:21–22 Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” 22 And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. (NIV) Acts 2:1–4 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. (NIV) Romans 10:9 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. (NKJV) Ephesians 2:8–9 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—9 not by works, so that no one can boast. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 14:4–5 Anyone who speaks in a tongue edifies themselves, but the one who prophesies edifies the church. 5 I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 14:12–19 So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church. 13 For this reason the one who speaks in a tongue should pray that they may interpret what they say. 14 For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. 15 So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding. 16 Otherwise when you are praising God in the Spirit, how can someone else, who is now put in the position of an inquirer, say “Amen” to your thanksgiving, since they do not know what you are saying? 17 You are giving thanks well enough, but no one else is edified. 18 I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. 19 But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. (NIV) Acts 19:1–5 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” 3 So Paul asked, “Then what baptism did you receive?” “John’s baptism,” they replied. 4 Paul said, “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” 5 On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. (NIV) Ephesians 1:13 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, (NIV) Acts 19:6–7 When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. 7 There were about twelve men in all. (NIV) Acts 8:13-18 Simon himself believed and was baptized. And he followed Philip everywhere, astonished by the great signs and miracles he saw. 14 When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to Samaria. 15 When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 because the Holy Spirit had not yet come on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money (NIV) Acts 10:44-46 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. (NIV) How To Receive The Baptism Of The Holy Spirit 1. Ask God to baptize you in the Holy Spirit Luke 11:13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (NIV) 2. Worship and magnify God 3. By faith receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit 4. Ask God to continually fill you with the Holy Spirit Ephesians 5:18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, (NIV)

Acts 19:2 “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” he asked them. “No,” they replied, “we haven’t even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” (NLT) 23 Holy Spirit Life Hacks 1. The Holy Spirit reveals Jesus to you John 16:13–15 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. 14 He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. 15 All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you.” (NIV) John 15:26 When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me. (NIV) 2. The Holy Spirit is your seal  Romans 8:9 You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. (NIV) Ephesians 1:13-14 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 2:14 But people who aren’t spiritual can’t receive these truths from God’s Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can’t understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. (NLT) 3. The Holy Spirit convicts you John 16:8 And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment. (NLT) 4. The Holy Spirit makes you holy Romans 15:16  I am a special messenger from Christ Jesus to you Gentiles. I bring you the Good News so that I might present you as an acceptable offering to God, made holy by the Holy Spirit. (NLT) 5. The Holy Spirit produces fruit in you Galatians 5:22–23 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! (NLT) 6. The Holy Spirit guides you into all truth 2 Timothy 3:16-All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. (NIV) 2 Peter 1:21 For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. (NIV) John 16:13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. (NIV) 7. The Holy Spirit teaches you 1 Corinthians 2:13 This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words. (NIV) John 14:26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. (NIV) 8. The Holy Spirit leads your life Romans 8:14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. (NIV) Galatians 5:16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. (NLT) Acts 10:19–20 While Peter was still thinking about the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Simon, three men are looking for you. 20 So get up and go downstairs. Do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them.” (NIV) 9. The Holy Spirit restrains you Acts 16:6  Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. (NIV) 10. The Holy Spirit gives you power Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. (NIV) 11. The Holy Spirit gives you boldness Acts 4:31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. (NIV) 12. The Holy Spirit helps you in your weakness Romans 8:26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. (NIV) 13. The Holy Spirit helps you to pray Romans 8:26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. (NIV) 14. The Holy Spirit comforts you Acts 9:31 So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied. (ESV) John 14:16 “If you love me, obey me; and I will ask the Father and he will give you another Comforter, and he will never leave you. (TLB) 15. The Holy Spirit speaks to you Hebrews 3:7 So, as the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you hear his voice, (NIV) Acts 2:17 “ ‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. (NIV) 16. The Holy Spirit strengthens you Ephesians 3:16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, (NIV) 17. The Holy Spirit gives you hope Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (NIV) 18. The Holy Spirit guards your life 2 Timothy 1:14  Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us. (NIV) 19. The Holy Spirit brings unity Ephesians 4:3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (NIV) 20. The Holy Spirit gives you spiritual gifts 1 Corinthians 12:7–11 7 A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other. 8 To one person the Spirit gives the ability to give wise advice; to another the same Spirit gives a message of special knowledge. 9 The same Spirit gives great faith to another, and to someone else the one Spirit gives the gift of healing. 10 He gives one person the power to perform miracles, and another the ability to prophesy. He gives someone else the ability to discern whether a message is from the Spirit of God or from another spirit. Still another person is given the ability to speak in unknown languages, while another is given the ability to interpret what is being said. 11 It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have. (NLT) 21. The Holy Spirit gives you power over the devil Matthew 12:28 But if I am casting out demons by the Spirit of God, then the Kingdom of God has arrived among you. (NLT) 1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (KJV) 22. The Holy Spirit gives you freedom 2 Corinthians 3:17  Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. (NIV) 23. The Holy Spirit gives you new life John 6:63 The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life. (NIV)

Reintroducing The Holy Spirit: Is The Holy Spirit A Ghost, Dove, Water, Tongue, Or An It? Acts 19:2 “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed? They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” (NIV)  1 Corinthians 2:9–12 However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”— the things God has prepared for those who love him—10 these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. 11 For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. 12 What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us. (NIV) Romans 11:33 O, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments, and untraceable His ways! (HCSB)  5 Questions About The Holy Spirit 1. What Is the Holy Spirit?       1A. The Holy Spirit is God Acts 5:3-4 Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? 4 Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.” (NIV)  Acts 10:38 “how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him. (NIV)  Matthew 3:16-17 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (NIV)  John 10:30 “I and the Father are one.” (NIV)  John 17:11 I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one. (NIV)  John 5:19  Jesus gave them this answer: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. (NIV)  John 14:10–11 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves. (NIV)  John 16:13–15 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. 14 He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. 15 All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you.” (NIV)    1B. The Holy Spirit is a person  1 Corinthians 12:11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines. (NIV)  Hebrews 3:7 So, as the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you hear his voice, (NIV)    2. What makes the Holy Spirit a person?    2A. He is alive  Romans 8:2 And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. (NLT)   2B. He has a mind Romans 8:27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. (NIV)    2C. He has a will  1 Corinthians 12:11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills. (ESV)     2D. He has emotions Romans 15:30 I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. (NIV)   Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness. (NIV)   Ephesians 4:30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. (NIV)  Acts 5:3 Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? (NIV)    2E. He has a personality 3. Where did the Holy Spirit come from?    3A. The Holy Spirit has no beginning  Isaiah 40:28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. (NIV) Revelation 1:8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty. (NIV).   Hebrews 9:14 Just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit, Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. (NLT)  Genesis 1:2 Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. (NIV)    3B. The Holy Spirit is everywhere       Psalm 139:7 I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! (NLT) Psalms 139:7 “Where can I go from your Spirit?” (NIV)  4. What Does The Holy Spirit Do? The Three Distinct Roles Of The Godhead In Salvation:   4A. The Father created the plan of salvation  John 6:37-38 All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. (NIV)   4B. The son, Jesus, executed the plan of salvation  Galatians 4:4 But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law (NIV)  Luke 22:42 “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” (NIV)  Hebrews 7:27 Unlike those other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices every day. They did this for their own sins first and then for the sins of the people. But Jesus did this once for all when he offered himself as the sacrifice for the people’s sins. (NLT)    4C. The Holy Spirit is carrying out the plan of salvation  John 16:7–9 But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you. 8 And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment. 9 The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in me. (NLT)   5. What does the Holy Spirit do in the life of the Christ follower? 

Pastor Kirk and Pastor Logan talk about Herbert Cooper's message on the Holy Spirit, River Valley Conference and Adirondack Chairs. Do you have a question you want answered? Send us a DM on Instagram or Facebook! @rivervalleymn

Have you ever had a dream so big it felt nearly impossible to fulfill? God gives you these dreams, not to see you fail, but for you to glorify Him. In this message, Herbert Cooper, Senior Pastor of People's Church, shares the reality of the obstacles you will face while chasing the dreams God has for you and how to overcome them.//NEXT STEPS: http://rockcity.churchPRAYER REQUESTS: https://rockcitychurch.tv/careGIVE: https://rockcitychurch.tv/give// Rock City Church has multiple locations throughout Columbus, Ohio. Whether you're spiritually restless, new at discovering who God is or you are a veteran of the faith, you are welcome here! //WEBSITE: https://rockcitychurch.tvFACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/rockcitychurchINSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/rockcitychurchTWITTER: https://twitter.com/rockcitychurch 

Dysfunctional: Why My Conversations With Difficult People Are Not Working 2 Timothy 2:23–26 Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. 24 A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. 25 Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. 26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants. (NLT) 1. You need to determine if you should engage a difficult person 2 Timothy 2:23 Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. (NLT) 1A. There are times you should not engage a difficult person 1 Timothy 1:4 Don’t let them waste their time in endless discussion of myths and spiritual pedigrees. These things only lead to meaningless speculations, which don’t help people live a life of faith in God. (NLT) 1 Timothy 4:7 Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. (NLT) 1 Timothy 6:20–21 Timothy, guard what God has entrusted to you. Avoid godless, foolish discussions with those who oppose you with their so-called knowledge. 21 Some people have wandered from the faith by following such foolishness. May God’s grace be with you all. (NLT) 2 Timothy 2:14 Remind everyone about these things, and command them in God’s presence to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless, and they can ruin those who hear them. (NLT) 2 Timothy 2:16–18 Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior. 17 This kind of talk spreads like cancer, as in the case of Hymenaeus and Philetus. 18 They have left the path of truth, claiming that the resurrection of the dead has already occurred; in this way, they have turned some people away from the faith. (NLT) 1B. There are times you should engage a difficult person Acts 18:4  Every Sabbath he reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks. (NIV) Acts 19:8–9 Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. 9 But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way. So Paul left them. He took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. (NIV) 1C. There are times when you need to establish boundaries after engaging a difficult person Titus 3:9–10 Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These things are useless and a waste of time. 10 If people are causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with them. (NLT) Romans 16:17–18 And now I make one more appeal, my dear brothers and sisters. Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. 18 Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people. (NLT) 2 Thessalonians 3:14–15 Take note of those who refuse to obey what we say in this letter. Stay away from them so they will be ashamed. 15 Don’t think of them as enemies, but warn them as you would a brother or sister. (NLT) 2 Timothy 3:4–5 They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. 5 They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that! (NLT) 2 John 1:10–11 If anyone comes to your meeting and does not teach the truth about Christ, don’t invite that person into your home or give any kind of encouragement. 11 Anyone who encourages such people becomes a partner in their evil work. (NLT) 7 Principles For Engaging A Difficult Person 1. Be focused on solutions with difficult people not a fight 2 Timothy 2:24 A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. (NLT) Proverbs 29:11 Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back. (NLT) 2. Be kind to difficult people 2 Timothy 2:24 A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. (NLT) Ephesians 4:31–32 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. (NLT) 3. Be patient with difficult people 2 Timothy 2:24 A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. (NLT) Proverbs 15:18 A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel. (NIV) Ephesians 4:2 Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. (NLT) Proverbs 14:29 People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness. (NLT) 4. Be gentle with difficult people 2 Timothy 2:25 Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. (NLT) Proverbs 15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. (NIV) 5. Be biblical with difficult people 2 Timothy 2:25 Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. (NLT) 6. Be for the difficult person winning in life 2 Timothy 2:25-26 Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. 26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants. (NLT) 7. Be aware the difficult person is in a spiritual battle 2 Timothy 2:26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants. (NLT) Matthew 5:44 “But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” (NKJV)

Why Communication Is Not Working James 3:5–6 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. (NIV) Psalm 34:12–13 Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, 13 keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies. (NIV) 1 Peter 3:10 For the Scriptures say, “If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies. (NLT) 4 Barriers That Lead To Bad Communication 1. Beginning with the wrong approach  Proverbs 18:21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. (NIV) Proverbs 15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. (NIV) Proverbs 29:22 An angry person starts fights; a hot-tempered person commits all kinds of sin. (NLT) Proverbs 15:18 A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel. (NIV) Proverbs 25:15 Patience can persuade a prince, and soft speech can break bones. (NLT) 2. Being quick to talk Proverbs 18:13 To answer before listening—that is folly and shame. (NIV) Proverbs 17:27–28 A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered. 28 Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent. (NLT) Proverbs 10:19 Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut. (NLT) 3. Bringing the attack to the person instead of the problem Proverbs 26:21 A quarrelsome person starts fights as easily as hot embers light charcoal or fire lights wood. (NLT) 4.  Backing away from tough conversations  Ephesians 4:15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. (NIV) 
6 Ways To Build A Bridge Of Communication B- Begin with me Matthew 7:5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye. (NIV). R- Relationship is my win I- Initiate asking for forgiveness Ephesians 4:31-32 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (ESV) D- Discover where people are Proverbs 18:2 Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions. (NIV) G- Grow in my communication Psalm 19:14 May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. (NIV).  James 1:26 If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. (NLT) E- Ensure my communication aligns with the Bible 1. Go to the person first 2. Don’t gossip and slander Proverbs 26:20 Without wood a fire goes out; without a gossip a quarrel dies down. (NIV) 3. Build people up with your communication Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (NIV) 4. Be a person of peace Romans 12:18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (NIV)

Dysfunctional: Why Marriage Is Not Working 1 Peter 5:8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. (NLT) Mark 10:7–9 ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, 8 and the two will become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9 Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” (NIV) 1. Unresolved Conflict separates marriages and healthy Communication joins marriages Ephesians 4:26–27  “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. (NIV) Proverbs 12:18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. (NIV) Healthy Communication Joins Your Marriage Together 1. Be honest Ephesians 4:15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. (NIV) Ephesians 4:25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. (NIV) 2. Be honoring 2A. Be loving Ephesians 4:15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. (NIV) 2B. Bite your tongue Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (NIV) 2C. Be a builder Ephesians 4:29  Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (NIV) 2D. Be kind Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (NIV) 2E. Be unifier and peacemaker Ephesians 4:3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (NIV) 2. Selfishness separates marriages and Serving joins marriages 1 Corinthians 10:24 No one should seek their own good, but the good of others. (NIV) Marriages aren’t working when selfishness creates a consumer relationship Marriages aren’t working when selfishness creates a “You’re the problem” mentality.  Matthew 7:3-5 3 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye. (NIV) 1. Shift from a fleshly perspective to a biblical perspective Philippians 2:3–4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 10:24 No one should seek their own good, but the good of others. (NIV) 2. Shift from trying to change your spouse to changing yourself 3. Shift from you need to understand me to I need to understand you 4. Shift from what makes me happy to what makes you happy 5. Shift from how you should serve me to how can I serve you 3. Indifference separates marriages and Investment joins marriages Begin investing in your marriage even when you feel indifferent Revelation 2:4–5 Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. 5 Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place. (NIV) Mark 10:7–9 ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, 8 and the two will become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9 Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” (NIV)