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Faith shapes every part of life—not only what we believe, but how we spend, save, invest, and give. Every financial decision reveals something about what we value, trust, and treasure most. That's why conversations about money are never just about budgets or balances; they're deeply spiritual.Today, Afton Phillips, our Head of Content at FaithFi, joins the show to talk about how our faith reshapes the way we steward God's resources. This conversation grew out of our upcoming 21-day devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure, and the themes behind it.The Heart Behind the New DevotionalAfton has been shaping this project from its earliest concept to its final pages. She shared that when she first joined FaithFi, she longed for a place where people could revisit core biblical principles—not simply hear them once, but reflect on them deeply.“Money isn't just about math,” Afton said. “It's really about our hearts.”The devotional walks readers through foundational truths:God owns it all.Money issues are heart issues.Our financial lives are deeply connected to our spiritual formation.If that's true, then what we need isn't a formula—it's space with God. Scripture. Prayer. Reflection. This devotional is designed to help readers slow down long enough to allow God to reshape how they see and handle money.Redefining Success: What We Surrender, Not What We StoreOne of the early themes in Our Ultimate Treasure is the truth that God doesn't measure success by what we store up, but by what we surrender.We're all tempted to believe that just a little more—more savings, more security, more achievement—will finally bring peace. But no amount of accumulation ever delivers the rest our souls crave.True biblical success is about formation more than finances.Are we growing in Christlikeness?Are the fruits of the Spirit becoming more evident in our lives?Are we learning to let go of fear, control, and comfort so God can shape us?When surrender becomes the lens, money stops being a monument to ourselves and becomes a tool for becoming more like Jesus.Restoring Purpose in Our WorkAnother key section of the devotional explores a truth we often forget: work is not a curse—it's a calling.From the very beginning, God designed work as something good. Not something we merely do to earn or survive, but something through which we participate in His redemptive mission.Your desk, job site, classroom, or kitchen table isn't just a workplace—it's holy ground. Your work is one of the primary arenas where God shapes your character and blesses others through you.Why Margin Matters for Faithful StewardshipMargin is one of the most important threads running through the entire devotional.Afton put it simply:“Margin creates space for God to move.”When we max out:our moneyour timeour energyWe leave no room to listen, pause, or respond to God's leading.Margin isn't restrictive. It's freeing. It enables generosity, rest, trust, and wise decision-making. It's one of the clearest marks of faithful stewardship.The Power of Wise CounselMoney can feel personal—sometimes even private. But Scripture is clear: we're not meant to navigate finances alone.Every day, callers to our program remind us how many people long for guidance, encouragement, and clarity. That's why we devoted an entire day in the devotional to seeking wise counsel.Afton shared:“When we invite wise counsel into our lives, we begin to see things we might have missed.”That's also why Certified Kingdom Advisors (CKA) exist—to help believers apply biblical principles to their real-life financial situations. You can find one at FindaCKA.com.Generosity Rooted in Grace, Not GuiltIf there's a single thread that runs through the whole devotional, it's generosity.But not guilt-driven generosity. Grace-driven generosity.We give because God has first given to us—lavishly, sacrificially, joyfully. When we understand His grace, generosity becomes something we get to do, not something we feel pressured into.Every act of giving becomes an act of worship.A Devotional Designed for Reflection, Beauty, and FormationOne of the most unique aspects of Our Ultimate Treasure is its built-in rhythm of reflection.Each day includes:ScriptureA devotionalGuided reflection questionsA written prayerBeautiful, thoughtful imageryThe artwork itself invites contemplation. Everyday images—like a simple desk—are visually transformed to reflect biblical truth, reminding readers that God reshapes the way we see everything, even our work and money.This devotional was designed not just to be read, but to be experienced.Finishing with What Truly Lasts: Eternal RewardsThe final day draws us back to what matters most: our ultimate treasure is Christ Himself.Earthly wealth fades. Opportunities change. Seasons shift. But our life in Christ—His presence, His love, His Kingdom—endures forever. Afton summed it up beautifully:“What are we investing in that will matter in a thousand years? That's eternal treasure.”Experience Our Ultimate TreasureIf you'd like to journey through this 21-day devotional yourself, we would love to send it to you as part of the FaithFi Partner Program.With a monthly gift of $35 or a one-time gift of $400, you'll receive year-long benefits, including early access to studies, devotionals, and our Faithful Steward magazine.You can learn more at FaithFi.com/Partner.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have Roth and traditional IRAs, plus taxable investments with large capital gains. My advisor suggested direct indexing last year, so I opened a small-cap account. It's up slightly overall but includes about a 19% loss I could use to offset gains. I also give appreciated stock to charity, but I need some funds for living expenses. My question is: Is direct indexing a biblically sound strategy, or is it problematic in any way? And how do you tell the brokerage which companies you don't want to own? Do you specify which types of businesses to exclude?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)National Christian Foundation (NCF)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Authentic ministry starts with a servant’s mindset, and Christians searching for purpose will find it in action—zeal for good works is a mark of discipleship, not a pastoral job description. John 12:26 frames service as the pathway to honor from the Father, reminding believers that following Christ means stepping into everyday ministry, wherever life places your feet. Highlights Ministry simply means “to serve,” and every follower of Christ is called into it. Jesus modeled servant leadership as the Servant King—service is imitation before function. The call isn’t to become a pastor, but to live like Jesus. Daily surrender (“die daily”) is less dramatic and more incremental—small yeses, repeated. Excuses shrink when identity grows: you serve because you are His, not to become enough. Service is worship when done in the Spirit’s power, not self-reliant hustle mode. Zealous good works expand your reach for God’s Kingdom—overflow comes after outpour. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Zealous for Good Works By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading: “If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him” (John 12:26, ESV). “Ministry” is from the Greek word diakoneo, meaning “to serve.” At my church, our elders believe that every member of God’s Church is a minister, so obviously that would mean that every believer is called to serve- serve Jesus and serve His Body. Jesus was the servant of all. In fact, He was the Servant King. Christ shares in the gospel of John the importance of serving and following Him as He serves others. “If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him” (John 12:26, ESV). Jesus asks us as Christians to lay our lives down continually, denying our wants and desires, or as the Apostle Paul said to do, “die daily” (1 Corinthians 15:31). Do we know how to do that? Intersecting Life & Faith: It is human nature to seek after what our hearts and flesh crave, but we do not have to give in to that kind of nature, for we have a new nature in Christ Jesus (Colossians 3:10, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 4:24). Some people have wrong thoughts about God and service, perhaps believing their service doesn’t matter because others have it taken care of. Or perhaps they see pastors as the ones who are qualified for service and ministry, so they don’t need to join in. But we are all priests to our God (1 Peter 2:9)! When we put our hands to the plow, so to speak, in ministry, we are worshiping God. Those who are saved by Christ will eagerly and joyfully serve Christ and His people. We have been clothed in Christ’s righteousness to match Him and follow Him. What clothes are you wearing- the world’s or Christ’s? No matter the excuse or wrong thinking regarding ministry and service, we can ask God to help us see the importance of serving the Lord and others. The Holy Spirit empowers us to set aside our selfishness and learn how to be selfless like Jesus, preferring others above ourselves. That kind of lifestyle starts in the mind, in the way we think, as we learn to think of ourselves less and look for ways to put others first. The Lord promises that the Father will honor the one who serves Christ by serving His people. As we learn to prefer others above ourselves, the Lord fills us with His love to the overflow to reach more people for His Kingdom. He will give us zeal for ministry. God is selfless, humble, gracious, and merciful, and as His children, He asks us to follow His example. We cannot do that in our own strength. The Holy Spirit will empower you, and with His grace, to be able to deny your own desires and selfish ambitions. We need God’s help to prefer others above ourselves. God’s Word transforms our minds so that we can learn how to think less of ourselves and seek to serve God and His people. Let us ask God to help us value the call to serve so we can look more like Him, ministering to whoever He puts in front of our path. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
A Day Is Coming – Part 2 MESSAGE SUMMARY: We are in the season of Advent, which means “coming” or “arrival”. The Church begins this season of “arrival” or Advent as the time we recognize and celebrate the “arrival” of Jesus – both Jesus' “first coming” and His “second coming”. We celebrate Jesus' “first coming” on Christmas Eve. The season of Advent is, also, a season of hope; and Advent is the beginning of our Church's “New Year”. In the book of Isaiah, Isaiah 24 through Isaiah 26 presents prophesies regarding the future about 600 years before the birth of Jesus. More specifically, Isaiah 24:1-13 describes the destruction of the world resulting from the sinful acts of God's people. However, Isaiah 24:14-16 describes a period of joy and hope in the world. As in the time of Isaiah, we should not give credence to the prophesies, by fellow humans today, of the world's destruction and/or a specific date for Jesus' ”second coming” {arrival}. Jesus told us both not to be “anxious” about those things that we cannot control and that “no one knows the day and the hour” of His return (i. e. Jesus “second coming”). Rather, in this season of Advent, we recognize the hope brought to the world by God's grace and His gift of Jesus. Our hope is built upon Jesus' birth, death on the cross, and His Resurrection all providing us with the means for our Redemption, Salvation, and our Eternal Life. However, there will be a day when Jesus returns again to earth (i. e. Jesus' “second coming”) on a day that cannot be predicted by humans. Jesus' “second coming” will establish His Kingdom and a new Heaven. Therefore, even though we do not know the when of Jesus' “second coming” we haves God's promise of the what Jesus' “second coming” will mean. We need not fear the “second coming”. The “second coming” is a promise by God and should lead us, in this season of Advent, to renew our preparation in hope and not fear and anxiety. We have God's promise that nothing can separate us from His love, as the Apostle John tells us in 1 John 4:16-19: “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. We love because he first loved us." We do not want to get so wrapped up in the details of Jesus' “second coming” so that, like the First Century Jews, we miss Jesus. One certainty, in Jesus' “second coming”, is our “Judgement”. Jesus' “second coming” will “arrive”, but we have nothing to fear if we are ready. We are “ready” by living lives of Faithfulness to the Gospel and through Repentance. Is there something in your life with which you have not dealt with in Repentance? If so, you are not “ready”. We must be willing to follow Jesus and to respond to those things He asks of us. The Apostle John tell us in Revelation 22:20-21: “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.' Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The Grace of Lord Jesus be with all. Amen”. Do you want to be ready for Jesus' “second coming”? If so, are you ready? TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Isaiah 24:1-16; Romans 8:38-39; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 1 Corinthians 15:12-19; 1 John 4:16-19; Revelation 20:4; Matthew 25:31-32; Johnb5:24; 1 Corinthians 11:28-32; Romans 11:25-27; Luke 1:31-33; Hebrews 1:8; Hebrews 10:37-39; Revelation 22:20-21. (Click the blue below to read the full Bible text for these scripture references in BOLD.). A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “God, the Father, Is Spirit; Jesus Followers Must Worship the Father in Spirit and Truth with Reality and Honesty and Not a Façade”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Faith Fueled Woman - Daily Devotional, Bible Study for Women, Prayer, Talk to God
Have you ever wondered how your everyday skills could be used for God's glory? In this inspiring episode of Faith Fueled Woman, Kristin Fitch sits down with Dan Parr, a voice-over artist who followed a divine nudge to make the Bible more accessible for everyone.What started as a simple act of reading Scripture in a small group became a calling that changed Dan's life—and continues to touch others. He shares how faith, persistence, and obedience turned his creative talent into a ministry that helps people connect with God's Word in a fresh, relatable way.Together, Kristin and Dan unpack how God equips each of us with unique abilities and opportunities to serve. This episode will encourage you to listen for God's prompts, trust His timing, and take the next faithful step—even when it feels small.Key TakeawaysYour gifts have purpose. God designed each of us with talents meant to serve His Kingdom, no matter how ordinary they may seem.Small obedience leads to big impact. Dan's journey shows that one “yes” can open doors to ministry and transformation.Faith and creativity go hand-in-hand. Using our skills for God's glory allows us to reach others in ways words alone can't.Accessible faith matters. Making Scripture relatable helps more people encounter God's truth.Encouragement fuels calling. The support of family, mentors, and community can strengthen us to keep pursuing God's assignments.Connect with Dan Parr https://www.parrdanmevoices.com/ or Learn More about the Easy to Understand, Read Bible here.Download My Free Joyful Living Devotional: https://kristinfitch.com/devotionalReady to take your first step towards a more joyful, faith-filled life? Download our Reignite Your Passion Workbook and start living with purpose today!What to feel more energized in midlife? Grab my 5 Day Energy Reset Jump Start Guide here.Ready to work with Kristin to make a shift in your life? Click here to get started.faith fueled woman • Christian podcast for women • using your gifts for God • spiritual gifts in action • calling and purpose • Christian inspiration stories • faith and creativity • hearing God's call • obedience and faith • Bible accessibility project • everyday faith stories • Christian women encouragement • living out God's purpose • faith at work • discovering your calling
Craig and Arkansas friend Misty Hubbard trace their journey from “vote harder” conservatism to No King but Christ. They talk about propaganda, “paid patriotism,” online Christian rage, compassion that crosses borders, and why the solution isn't a better party but a deeper allegiance to Jesus and His Kingdom. How Mike Gaddy shattered Misty's sense of civic religion, with the haunting question “When have you ever voted yourself more free?”, and what happens when your faith starts sounding more like a campaign ad than the Sermon on the Mount. In the end, this isn't a call to find a better party; it's an invitation to step out of the culture war and into small, local communities where people quietly learn to look, and love, more like Jesus. What's Inside this Episode: How “vote harder” patriotism discipled them more than Jesus The path Misty took that broke her founding myths and civic religion Propaganda, “paid patriotism,” and how getting back to Jesus expands compassion Online Christian rage vs. everyday kindness at work (and what Jesus has to say about it) Why the solution isn't apathy, but deeper allegiance to Christ's Kingdom Power and importance of small, local groups (like Misty's in Russellville) as quiet deprogramming from empire
Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Tired of surface-level hot takes during Advent? We press pause on the news cycle and dive into Scripture's living architecture—how David, Solomon, Isaiah, and John converge to reveal a Kingdom that isn't just future hope but present reality. We walk through the liturgical calendar's wisdom, the shock of John's “hour,” and the way Cana's stone jars unlock Exodus, Numbers, and a new creation pattern. Along the way we confront a popular error: the idea that Christ hasn't yet established His Kingdom. If the Gospel announces “the Kingdom is at hand,” then the Church is not a holding pattern—it's the King's reign made visible in Word, sacrament, and a Eucharistic temple.We explore Marian typology without sentimentality: Jeremiah's hidden ark, the overshadowing glory cloud, and why reverence for Mary clarifies, rather than distracts from, the Incarnation. We trace the branch from Jesse through Nazareth, the bread of the presence through David to the Eucharist, and Nathaniel's fig tree across the prophets. Typology isn't trivia; it's how Scripture trains our eyes to see Christ fulfilling every promise. And because grace aims at real life, we talk about family prayer, small rituals that carry children through hard years, and the demanding joy of fatherhood as priestly leadership—authority as sacrifice, not dominance.If you've felt disoriented by church conflicts or exhausted by constant outrage, Advent offers a better way: return to the story, receive the King, and let the calendar shape your days. Come hear how heaven “colonizes” earth through the Church, why obedience grows from grace, and how the Kingdom breaks into ordinary homes through beauty, memory, and the sacraments. Subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review to help more listeners find thoughtful, faith-filled conversations that spark real devotion.Support the showTake advantage of great Catholic red wines by heading over to https://recusantcellars.com/ and using code "BASED" for 10% off at checkout!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon
As we align the Gregorian calendar with the Hebrew month of Kislev, God is positioning His people for a powerful transition into 2026. Kislev is the month of dreams, hope, angelic activity, and destiny fulfillment. In this timely prophetic word, we explore:What God is doing in December 2025The biblical meaning of 12 — Government, order & completionThe significance of Kislev: Dreams, destiny encounters, and supernatural activityHanukkah: The miracle oil and eight days of new beginningsTorah readings from Genesis 32–36: Jacob's wrestling and name changeHow to align with your scrolls of destiny before entering 2026Understanding spiritual warfare as confirmation of callingReceiving a new level of power and identity for the days aheadThis message releases prophetic insight into how God uses both the Hebrew calendar and the earth's calendar to advance His Kingdom through you. December is a divine setup — a month of stretching, faith-building, supernatural provision, and Governmental ALIGNMENT.Key Prophetic Dates:• Dec 1–8 — New beginnings, destiny tests & affirmation• Dec 12 (12/12) — A governmental stamp from Heaven• Dec 14–22 — Hanukkah: Miracle oil & new beginnings• Dec 25 — Global celebration of Christ• Entering January — First-fruits faith & promotionThis is a season where dreams reveal destiny, where faith rises, and where God gives you a new name, new authority, and a new level of Kingdom power. Your wrestling will lead to your promotion.PRAYER DECLARATION:“Lord, increase my faith, reveal my new name, and establish Your government in my life as I step boldly into 2026.”Books & ResourcesJoin Ascend Classes — FREE impartation & activation monthlyMonday December 22 at 10 am and 6 pm est http://bit.ly/4gfRKXmIn USA get your copy of my new book "Cracking the Time Code" to defeat delay and secure God's promises https://www.candicesmithyman.com/shop/p/preorder-cracking-the-time-code-step-into-supernatural-acceleration-stop-cycles-of-delay-and-secure-gods-promises-todaySign up for “Kingdom Wealth Strategies” for a 6 month COACHING in how to increase prosperity - excellent for marketplace ministry leaders and thoseWanting to dig deeper into God's plan for wealth and prosperous living.https://dream-mentors-transformational-life-coaching.teachable.com/l/pdp/kingdom-wealth-strategies-class-prophetic-communityGet your copy of “365 Prophetic Revelations from the Hebrew Calendar”Www.candicesmithyman.com or out of USA go to https://amzn.to/4aQYoR0https://amzn.to/4aQYoR0
Send us a textJesus made it clear: His Kingdom is not for the passive, but for those who take it by force. Joshua taught his commanders the same lesson - how to draw their swords, confront their enemy, ask for help - and to put their feet on the necks of their enemies! Join us as Pastor C walks us through Joshua's steps to victory and freedom for our lives!
This week we begin our Advent series, Between Two Worlds, by stepping into Paul's words from 1 Corinthians 1:1–9. Advent is a season of waiting for Jesus' arrival. We look back to His birth in Bethlehem and look ahead to His final return. But Paul reminds us we don't wait empty-handed. God has already poured out every gift we need in Jesus. He sustains us. He equips us. And He sends us into the world to reflect His light. Join us as we explore what it means to wait with purpose and to use the gifts God has placed in each of us for the good of His Kingdom. Isaiah 2:1–5 1 Corinthians 1:1-9 Matthew 21:1–11
In this message, we return to the Gospel of John with a powerful passage in John 18:28–40, where Jesus stands before Pontius Pilate. From a human perspective, Jesus has been betrayed by Judas, arrested unjustly, and denied by Peter — His closest followers have faltered, and the crowd is about to reject Him. Yet behind every setback is a deeper reality: Nothing is falling apart. Everything is unfolding exactly according to God's plan. In this moment of pressure and opposition, Jesus shows us: Boldness over fear Commitment over confusion Mission over comfort Jesus doesn't defend Himself to protect His life — He surrenders it to secure our salvation. His Kingdom is not of this world, but His rescue mission was for this world, for humanity — for us. This message calls believers to move: From fear → to faith From apprehension → to Spirit-filled boldness From comfort → to Kingdom calling
In a culture that screams “freedom,” “rights,” and “be your own boss,” Jesus says the greatest in His Kingdom must become a slave — not forced, but by choice. This isn't a call to volunteer. It isn't a call to serve. It's a call to fall so in love with your Lord and Master who paid your un-payable debt that you look at all the freedom the world offers and say, “I will not go out free.”If you are tired of half-hearted Christianity and ready to give Jesus everything — your future, your body, your money, your time, your reputation — this message is for you.
Suffering Victoriously As Christians… “It is ‘Go Time’ to be Fully Invested in Serving Christ and His Kingdom!” It was and seems to be once again time to be fully invested in serving the LORD. There are four fundamental responses that need to be consistently practiced as troublesome times continue to unfold. First, a prayer life built upon sound judgment and soberness. Next, we need to remain fervent in our love for the brethren. Third we need to be hospitable with a great attitude, Finally, we need to invest our God-given gifts, talents, abilities, and resources to advance Christ’s Kingdom. The overall riding purpose is that God may be glorified in His people as we humbly do His will. The post It Is “Go Time” To Be Fully Invested! appeared first on Pleasant Hill Church of Christ.
In this episode, Pastor Mike Peavy unpacks what it really means to give through the church rather than to the church. Rooted in Ephesians 3:20–21, he reminds us that there is no limit with God — He can do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine. This message encourages a posture of open-handed generosity, trusting that every gift ultimately brings glory to God and fuels His Kingdom work. All glory to God!
ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 30, the message is called THE ONCE AND FUTURE KING, with Patrick Edwards. Kevin McAlister knew when the Wet Bandits were coming to rob his house, to which he famously says, “When they come back, I'll be ready.” Seems obvious, and yet, in the busyness of life we get so distracted that we often don't give our faith much of a thought. Jesus warns, however, that as the once and future King He will most assuredly return one day to consummate His Kingdom and He intends to find us doing what He instructed us to do.
In this follow-up to Thursday's broadcast, Morning Manna returns once more to Jesus' paired kingdom parables—the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl of Great Price (Matthew 13:44–46). Part 2 deepens the focus on the seeker's joy, the totality of the exchange, and the holy urgency that marks those who recognize the surpassing worth of Christ and His Kingdom. Rick Wiles and Doc Burkhart revisit the themes of discovery, evaluation, and decisive surrender, showing how genuine disciples gladly release all lesser things to gain the one treasure that cannot fade. Teachers: Rick Wiles and Doc Burkhart You can partner with us by visiting FaithandValues.com, calling 1-888-519-4935, or by mail at PO Box 399 Vero Beach, FL 32961. MEGA FIRE reveals the ancient recurring cycles of war and economic collapse that have shaped history for 600 years. These patterns predict America is now entering its most dangerous period since World War II. Get your copy today! www.megafire.world Get high-quality emergency preparedness food today from American Reserves! www.AmericanReserves.com It's the Final Day! The day Jesus Christ bursts into our dimension of time, space, and matter. Now available in eBook and audio formats! Order Final Day from Amazon today! www.Amazon.com/Final-Day Apple users, you can download the audio version on Apple Books! www.books.apple.com/final-day Purchase the 4-part DVD set or start streaming Sacrificing Liberty today. www.Sacrificingliberty.com
2025-03-10 - Accepted in His Kingdom: 1 Peter 2_5-12 [FpuoDqcZJUo] by Salvador Flores III
The disciples admired the beauty of the Temple, but Jesus saw something entirely different—a system God had already left behind. In Mark 13:1, we learn that the Old Covenant structures were temporary shadows pointing to something far greater: Christ Himself as the true Temple, and His people as the dwelling place of God's Spirit. This week, Pastor Korey walks us through the stunning reality that God is no longer found in man-made buildings but in the living Temple of His Church, where His glory now rests and His Kingdom advances.
There are realities in the spiritual realm that are holding believers back from the life God has for them. There are 'works' of the devil that many believers are struggling with today, dimming their light. Jesus came to destroy these works, and has given revelations of these keys and mysteries for all who will come to Him to access this abundant life. The necessity of the anointing, the power of God and why it is vital to the body of Christ, is at the heart of His Kingdom message. There is power in God's true Kingdom that sets people free and heals all sickness and disease. God has a kingdom government, principles and ways that He moves through and equips believers today to walk this victorious Christian life. Jesus has defeated the works of the devil, and upon the ways He designed His church, we can now walk in the fullness of the life of Jesus within us and release His kingdom upon the earth. This message reveals how to walk in true authority, releasing the anointing. All that is required is hunger to respond to God calling you, and humility to receive.
When everything else falls away, what remains is God and His Kingdom, and His love.
We will journey through some of the most powerful short stories ever told–stories that have shaped Christian faith for centuries. These are not just simple moral lessons. These are Kingdom revelations. With simple images– a tree, a lost coin, a house being built– Jesus opens our eyes to the beauty of God's heart, our need for salvation, and what it means to live in His Kingdom under His reign. The parables are how Jesus invites us in. They are windows into the heart of God and mirrors revealing our own. They confront us, comfort us, and ultimately call us to respond to the good news that God's Kingdom has drawn near in Jesus.This week, Pastor Warren Williams out of Luke 18:9-14.WEBSITETo learn more about Redemption Tempe, find ways to get involved, or opportunities to serve, visit our website: https://tempe.redemptionaz.com.OUR APPDownload our app redtem.in/tempeappOR text "tempe app" to 77977STAY CONNECTEDFacebook: / redemptiontempe. .Twitter: / redemptiontem Instagram: / redemptiontempe.. .GIVINGEverything we have is a gift from the Lord because He owns it all. Therefore giving should be a priority for us who have received all we have. Giving cheerfully, sacrificially, and consistently is a part of our worship.Give Online: https://pushpay.com/g/redemptiontempe
About This SeriesMany of us are endlessly chasing things that will never truly satisfy. We live in a world obsessed with temporary things—money, success, approval, comfort. But Jesus invites us into His Kingdom—a way of life that turns the world's values upside down and fills us with real purpose, hope, and joy. Kingdom Come is a five-week journey that will challenge us to shift our focus from earthly pursuits to eternal priorities and to live as Kingdom people in a world that desperately needs to see and know the grace of Jesus.This Week's EpisodeLife is hard, and sometimes it feels like the brokenness of this world will never end. But we should live with perseverance, hope, and confidence, and fix our eyes on what is unseen, because the struggles of this life are temporary, we are citizens of a Kingdom that will never fade.Ready For More?Check out firstchristian.com to find opportunities to connect and grow.We'd love to see you this coming Sunday on-campus or streaming online at 9 and 11am.Follow @fcccanton on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay connected!Support the show
Listen in on our first of five CWS Keynote Speakers from the 2025 CWS Conference: Hear from Pastor Mayo Sowell, Founder of LIIV Church, Atlanta, as he speaks about the importance of realizing that our ministry as believers doesn't start and stop with the Church. Pastor Sowell teaches about the false beliefs that keep us away from the Lord's work, and encourages us with the truth that the Lord doesn't waste, and uses all of us, our past, and imperfection, to further His Kingdom.If you are a Christian working in college or professional sports, we'd love to connect with you. Join a community of like-minded believers working at every level and department of the sports industry. You're not alone.Get Connected. Be Encouraged. Leave Equipped. The Christians Working in Sports Conference. Visit www.cwsconference.org to learn more about the Christians Working in Sports Conference! Hosted by Uncommon Sports Group and ADs 4 Christ.
Read Online“I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.” Luke 21:3–4We must all see ourselves as this poor widow by offering our “whole livelihood” to Christ. Everything we have is a gift from God, and it must be offered back to God, sacrificially, as our gift to Him. The material offering made by this poor widow was two small coins worth very little. The truth is that even if you were the richest person in the world and donated all that you had to God, it would greatly pale in comparison to the gift given to us by our Lord. We are all poor in the big picture of God's grace and His Kingdom. The most any one of us can offer is symbolized by these two small coins.As you look at your own life, how willing are you to give everything you have to our Lord for His glory and service? The only appropriate “offering” we are called to give to our Lord is the “sacrifice” of our entire life. This spiritual truth is something very difficult for those who are very wealthy in the things of this world. Material wealth offers an easy way to live in comfort. Money can provide every modern convenience, entertainment, fun, worldly security and much of what this world has to offer. But money cannot buy fulfillment. It cannot satisfy us in the truest sense. This is why many people who live very luxurious lives are not truly happy.Happiness is found in sacrifice. Specifically, it is found in sacrificial love by which we dedicate everything we are and all that we have to the sole purpose of the glory of God and the furtherment of His Kingdom. Sadly, when one is rich in the things of this world, it is easy to think that offering a portion of their wealth, such as a tithe, means that they can keep and use the rest any way they want. But that's not true. Giving of ourselves completely to God and to His service does not necessarily mean that we donate all of our money to the Church. But it does mean that we offer everything to God. For many, when this complete offering is done every day, God will lead them to use their material resources for the raising of their family, to take care of their basic needs, and, at times, to even enjoy various comforts in life. But the real question is whether or not you truly live as though all you have and all you are is God's and is to be used for His glory and the furtherment of His will.Reflect, today, upon this poor widow. She was greatly blessed to have very little. This made it easier for her to remain detached from money and other forms of material wealth. And in that detachment, she gave all to God. She entrusted all to Him, and Jesus noticed and praised her. Reflect upon our Lord's reaction to you and to the offering of your life to Him. If you are holding back from our Lord, then use the witness of this poor widow to inspire you to daily dedicate everything to the service of God in accord with His holy will.My wealthy Lord, Your riches are all that matter in life. You bestow the riches of eternal salvation and countless other graces upon those who have given all to You. I do give my life to You, dear Lord. I give all that I have and all that I am. Please receive the offering of my life and use me in accord with Your holy will. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: She Gave All She Had by Lawrence OP, license CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.
Friends of the Rosary,Today, Sunday, November 23, is the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.It's the feast of Christ, the King, radiant, majestic, and divine, when He establishes His Kingdom of light upon earth. It's also the feast of the glorified Savior, the Warrior, and Conqueror.In 1925, Pope Pius XI 1925 established this feast as an antidote to secularism, which organizes his life as if God did not exist, putting the Lord out of man's thinking and living.The solemnity day, formerly referred to as "Christ the King", is intended to proclaim Christ's royalty over individuals, families, society, governments, and nations.Today's Mass establishes, 1) Christ is God, the Creator of the universe and hence wields a supreme power over all things; "All things were created by Him"; 2) Christ is our Redeemer, He healed us by His precious Blood; 3) Christ is Head of the Church; 4) God bestowed upon Christ the nations of the world as His dominion.The liturgy also describes the qualities of Christ's kingdom. This kingdom is: 1) supreme, extending not only to all people but also to their princes and kings; 2) universal, extending to all nations and to all places; 3) eternal; 4) spiritual, Christ's "kingdom is not of this world."Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• November 23, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
Journey Church Sunday Worship Gathering Audio - Bozeman, Montana
Bob Schwahn | Lead Pastor | November 23, 2025 Referenced Scripture: Acts 1:3-8, 1 Peter 2:12, John 4:39-42 Reflection Questions: 1. Was there something from the sermon that stood out to you? Explain. 2. When you hear that you are God's plan A to TELL the world that Jesus is King and to SHOW what the world what the Kingdom of Jesus looks like, how do you respond to that? Thoughts, emotions, desires??? Why? 3. How have you seen God use you as a witness for Jesus and His Kingdom? How would you desire to see God use you? Explain. 4. What challenges or barriers have you faced in being a witness for Jesus? What would it take for you to overcome those challenges? 5. Being a ‘witness' means we SHOW and TELL. We SHOW the world what the Kingdom of Jesus looks like and we TELL the world how to make Jesus their King. Why is both SHOWING and TELLING essential to help people come to faith in Jesus and to follow Him? 6. In Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) he outlines what His Kingdom looks like. Read through that and make observations of what the world looks like when Jesus is King.Is that a compelling vision of the world to you? Do you imagine it would be compelling to others? Explain. 7. When telling the story of your life of faith, why would it be important to share authentically (joys, challenges, questions, failures, hope)? What is the cost of not being authentic about our faith? 8. Read John 4 about the Samaritan women. What made her an unlikely candidate for being a witness for Jesus? How did God use her INVITE to change the world? 9. Read John 4:39-42 How could God use you to INVEST and INVITE someone in your world to “come and see” the King and the Kingdom? Who are at least 5 people you could pray for and invite to join you at Journey between now and Christmas? What's your next step? * Connect: We'd love to connect with you! Fill out our Connect Card to receive more information, have us pray for you, or to ask us any questions: http://journeybozeman.com/connectcard * Connect: Get your children connected to our children's ministry, Base Camp: https://journeybozeman.com/children * Connect: Our Student Ministry is for High School and Middle School students: https://journeybozeman.com/students * Give: Want to worship through giving and support the ministry of Journey Church: https://journeybozeman.com/give * Gather: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneyChurchBozeman * Gather: Download our app: https://journeybozeman.com/app * Gather: Join our Facebook Group to stay connected throughout the week: https://facebook.com/groups/JourneyChurchBozeman Chapters (00:00:00) - How God Uses You in the Life(00:00:55) - The kingdom of God(00:07:17) - Being Jesus' Witnesses: Show and Tell(00:14:46) - What Does It Look Like When Jesus Is King?(00:21:43) - The Need for a Comforter(00:26:43) - How to Show the Kingdom of God to Your Life(00:31:16) - The Woman Who Called the Kingdom(00:37:44) - Jesus Bringing Heaven to This Earth
God doesn't call us to be members of the church, but to be owners of the mission. We are called to advance the church, not just attend. When we are owners instead of members, we invest in what God is doing. Every time you give, serve, share your story…you are INVESTING in the Kingdom of God. God expects us to take responsibility with his resources. He's entrusted all of us with something, but what will we do with it? The story in Matthew 25 gives us a great picture of God's heart behind what it means to invest in His Kingdom.
Tom Logue - November 23rd 2025 You can't have too high a view of marriage—but your view of the kingdom must be higher. This week, Tom continues our King and His Kingdom series in Matthew 19:1–12 (Part 2), pressing into some of the most sensitive topics of our cultural moment: marriage, divorce, gender, sexuality, and singleness. He shows how Jesus confronts trivial divorce and a culture that degrades women, revealing a God who dignifies and defends them. Tom also addresses gender dysphoria with both clarity and compassion, insisting that birth gender matters because God lovingly assigns it, and that the remedy is not hardening our hearts but yielding them to the Maker's hands. Finally, he unpacks Jesus' affirmation of celibacy and singleness as a gift—“better seats in the house” for undivided devotion to Christ—and calls us to see that whether married or single, the point is not our status but His kingdom. Learn more about our church: https://restoredtemecula.church Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restoredtemecula and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restoredtemecula #Matthew19 #Marriage #Gender #Singleness #KingdomOfGod #KingAndHisKingdom #RestoredTemecula Share this message with someone who needs to hear it. Chapters (00:00:00) - Welcome Home: Restored Church(00:00:36) - The King and His Kingdom(00:03:06) - Jesus on Divorce and Other Things(00:04:20) - Jesus Never Says Anything That Offends(00:08:18) - Heart of Hardness(00:11:56) - 3 Things That God Dignifies and Defends Women(00:14:45) - God's Discriminating Against Women(00:21:15) - God dignifies and defends women(00:25:52) - Gender Dysoria Matters to God Because God Anticipated It(00:32:45) - Jesus Endorses celibacy and singleness(00:39:06) - Paul: Singleness Is a Gift(00:44:17) - "We Had The Best Seats"(00:45:04) - The kingdom of heaven is not the pinnacle of the Christian life(00:50:29) - The Real King's Kingdom(00:53:45) - Welcome to God's Kingdom(00:56:43) - Soften Our Hearts
Have you ever wondered what it really looks like to live under the reign of Jesus? Through the Sermon on the Mount, He gives us more than ancient wisdom. It's His Kingdom manifesto—a revolutionary vision for a new humanity. Not a list of impossible rules, but an invitation to a new way of being human. A way that leads to freedom, blessing, and fullness of life. Each week, we'll expose the broken systems that shape us—anger, greed, judgment, misplaced identity—and discover how Jesus flips them upside down, calling us into His narrow path that satisfies the soul. And you don't have to walk that path alone. Join a Life Group and explore the Sermon on the Mount in community—where questions, encouragement, and shared stories will help you live what Jesus is teaching.
Read Online“Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” He replied to him, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” Luke 22:42–43What powerful words these were. As Jesus hung dying on the Cross for the salvation of the world, He hung between two thieves. These thieves represent all of us. One of them wanted Jesus to save His earthly life by coming down from the Cross and saving him at the same time. The other thief made a prayer for eternal life, asking Jesus to remember him when Jesus entered His Kingdom. To the latter, Jesus granted his request.Oftentimes we pray for earthly goods and pay little attention to eternal ones. Today, as we celebrate the last Sunday of the liturgical year, we celebrate the Solemnity of Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. On this day, we are invited to pray this prayer with the good thief, acknowledging that we are sinners deserving death, but hoping and praying for mercy and a share in the Eternal Kingdom of God.Nothing makes the soul of our Lord more joyful than saving His children. He endured suffering and death out of love. He knew that His death would destroy our death if we cling to Him in hope. On the Cross, Jesus' gaze was on eternal, not earthly, redemption. He beheld the glorious throne that He mounted. It began with a cross but would end with glory, power and splendor beyond imagination. As we honor Jesus as the great and glorious King of the Universe, we are encouraged to invite Him to establish His kingship in our lives more fully. Though Jesus' permanent, lasting and visible Kingdom will be established only in the future when He returns at the end of time, His Kingdom must begin now.The Kingdom of God is established here and now every time you allow Him to exercise His kingship in your life. As a King, Jesus desires to order your life. He demands perfect submission of your will to Him. He demands complete obedience. And He demands that you embrace this kingship of His freely, of your own choosing. These are demands of perfect love that bring about a sharing in His eternal Kingdom. How well do you do this?Throughout our world, there are many forms of governments. Democracies are thought by many to be the best form of government because no one person is capable of being the perfect king. Therefore a democracy is more of a safeguard against tyranny and abusive leadership. But when it comes to the end of time, the governance of humanity will take place by a King—the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He is the only one Who is capable of governing humanity with justice and love. He is the only one under Whose leadership we will all flourish. He is the only one Who will be able to establish universal peace and harmony.Reflect, today, upon the glorious end of the world when our Lord Jesus Christ, the King of the Universe, will return in splendor and majesty to judge the living and the dead and to establish His permanent and unending Kingdom. Though we are not able to comprehend what this Kingdom will be at this time, we must believe in it with faith and have supernatural hope that we will share in it. Reflect, especially, upon your mission to allow that Kingdom of grace and mercy to begin now, within the depths of your own soul. Surrender all to Him. Invite Him to reign over your thoughts, will, body and soul. Do not hesitate. Trust in this one and only glorious King Who is worthy of our total obedience. My Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, You and You alone are worthy of our total trust and surrender in all things. I do choose You as my King today. I join with the good thief and come to You with all my sin, praying that You will remember me when You come into Your glorious Kingdom. Jesus, I trust in You. Mongolo1984, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.
Well respected Prophet, Dr. Patricia Green, received prophecy for the U.S. the British Monarchy and leaders of the nations of the world. Comparing this prophecy with several given to Julie Green about President Trump, echoes many of the same details, providing confirmation, giving us cause to take their posts very seriously.Dr. Patricia Green's channel can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/@joyministries777Julie Green's channel can be found at: https://www.jgminternational.org/The two women are not related and to my knowledge have never met.This is a bonus edition from host Pam Christian of Faith to Live By, a weekly podcast that explores current events from a biblical and prophetic perspective to help God's children discern how He wants us to respond, to see His Kingdom will done on earth as it is in heaven.Learn more about Pamela Christian, award-winning podcast host, multi award-winning author, speaker and teacher at: https://www.PamelaChristianMinistries.com
We are the dwelling place of God and have a part to play in bringing about His Kingdom
Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced from their homes and their countries amidst war and upheaval in the Middle East. Pastor Abraham and Sara are living as representatives of God's love to displaced people in the Middle East. The ministry can be messy and difficult, yet they persist in demonstrating love in practical ways. And they are seeing great fruit for their ministry. Abraham and Sara will share how one woman—the widow of an imam—had heard all kinds of negative things about Christians. But when she came to the church, she found something very different: people who loved her and helped her. Listen to hear the story of how God answered the woman's prayer within 24 hours, and how a dream led her to commit her life to Jesus. Leaving Islam behind to follow Jesus comes with a cost, though. Abraham and Sara will also share what Christian persecution looks like in the region, including pressure from families or tribes as well as Islamists or government authorities. “We are planting seeds,” Sara says, “we are the tools for His Kingdom.”
Invest in your spiritual growth through the One New Man app: https://app.onenewman.com/ Are you operating in faith, with authentic anointing, or settling for a counterfeit? In this episode of the Curt Landry Podcast, Rabbi Curt and Darrell Puckett talk about the Hebrew month of Kislev, a time of miracles, trust, and provision. The story of Hanukkah, which took place in this month, is a call for us today– to arise and align with truth in a culture deluded by lies, and watch the power of God to provide and restore righteousness. As we seek first His Kingdom, we can expect miracles. This is a time to continue investing in your spiritual growth and discern the time and season, seeking wisdom and guidance from God's calendar.Join Rabbi as He shares how trusting the Father causes us to grow in greater security, restoration, and generosity, and the safeguard of anchoring your life in God's instruction.
Desire is part of being human—but Psalm 73:25 reminds us that nothing on earth can satisfy us the way God does. When our plans stall, doors close, or God simply says “not yet,” it’s easy to feel the sting of disappointment. Yet in those very moments, He invites us to rediscover a deeper truth: He is enough. The longings we carry—relationships, opportunities, fulfillment—are not wrong, but they are never meant to replace the One who satisfies the soul. When we release our grip on what we think we need, we often discover that God has already given us everything essential for life, peace, and joy. Highlights Our desires are real, but they can quietly take priority over God without us realizing it. God’s “no” or “not yet” often shapes our character more than His “yes.” Seasons of lack can reveal how fully God satisfies the weary and longing heart (Psalm 107:9). Blessings are gifts, not guarantees—and never substitutes for intimacy with God. Contentment grows when we trust that God withholds nothing we truly need (Psalm 23:1). God is unchanging—faithful in abundance and faithful in scarcity (Malachi 3:6, Hebrews 13:8). Choosing gratitude over discontent quiets fear and centers our hearts on His goodness. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: God Is Everything We Truly Need By Hannah Benson Bible Reading: “Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.” - Psalm 73:25 ESV. We know that truly, there is no one in heaven that we have but God Himself, and none on earth that we ought to desire besides Him, but that is SO much easier said than done. If you’re anything like me, then there are probably so many desires tucked away in the secret corners of your heart. Hopes and dreams that you treasure in your heart like Mary. What should we do when God says “no”? When God doesn’t give us everything we ask for? How can we truly say with a heart full of faith, “there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you,” when there are other things we want as well? Think about it. What is something you long for? Perhaps a child. A spouse. A new job. About a year ago, the Lord really impressed on my heart a time in my life where every “no” from Him meant to grow and cultivate me into His image felt like a devastating blow to my plans. During one of my moments of discontentment, the Lord whispered to my weary heart, “Am I enough for you?” His words, soft and gentle yet far from condescending, brought an instant prick of conviction to my heart. When did God stop being enough for me? Of course, I thought He was enough. If someone were to ask me if He were enough, I would’ve said yes and thought I was being honest. But when did I start putting things I wanted above God? When did I start seeing the glass as half-empty instead of counting my blessings? I remember moments in my life where there were things I deeply desired - and didn’t have. Friendships are an open door to serve in media ministry, among others. In those seasons of “lack”, God taught me that I really had everything I needed. I may have desired good things, and it didn’t mean God didn’t want to eventually bless me with those things. (After all, God loves to give good gifts to His children). But God wanted to show me that He was enough for my weary soul. I didn’t need a specific job or to serve on a particular project (although that would be nice). I didn’t need to have specific friendships (although I would appreciate them if the Lord chose to bless me with them). As much as I deeply desired those gifts, the truth is, I didn’t “need” any of it. Anything God chooses to bless me with is still His and is a gift. It’s not for my own selfish gain, either, but a tool to further His Kingdom for His glory. “For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things” (Psalm 107:9 ESV). Intersecting Faith & Life: Dear friend, God will certainly bless you with good things. It may not look exactly like you’d thought, but it will be good. We are reassured that the Lord doesn’t change (Malachi 3:6) and again in Hebrews 13:8 (ESV) when the author writes to the Hebrews the promise that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” In our highest moments, when we’re successful, rich, and have everything we could ever want, God is good. But if God never changes, then the opposite is true, too. In our lowest moments, when we are barely making ends meet, and when we’re waiting for a miracle that we’re not even sure will come, God is still good. He loves us and will overflow our cup with His love, comfort, mercy, and grace, riches that far surpass any this world could give. I’ve been on both sides. There are times when I wrestle with a cup that feels as if it’s half-empty. I also know what it’s like to have that same glass overflowing with the love of the Lord. We can either choose to be discontented and experience growing dissatisfaction (and then nothing will ever satisfy, not even if we receive the very thing which we want). Or we can choose to trust that God has given us everything we need (2 Peter 1:3, Philippians 4:19, Psalm 23:1). It is in those moments I find my heart quiets, anxiety stills, and fear flees. And I come to realize that I’ll be okay even if I don’t get what I want because God will not withhold anything I need. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
As branches in The Vine of Christ we must not only understand that we are to abide in Him and bear fruit but we must submit to the work of God the Father who is The Vinedresser in order to truly be fruitful for His Kingdom...or be cast away. Share. Make it a great day in the Love & Lordship of Christ (Mark 12:29-31)!
Read Online“A nobleman went off to a distant country to obtain the kingship for himself and then to return. He called ten of his servants and gave them ten gold coins and told them, ‘Engage in trade with these until I return.' His fellow citizens, however, despised him and sent a delegation after him to announce, ‘We do not want this man to be our king.'” Luke 19:12–14There are three categories of people in this parable. The first includes those who received a gold coin and followed the master's request to “engage in trade” until he returned. The second has those who received the same command but were lazy and failed to produce any good fruit from that which our Lord has given them. And the third includes those who “despise” our Lord and do not want Him as their King.Upon the king's return, this first category of people are represented by the two servants who took the gold coins, engaged in trade, and made five and ten more. These are those who have much apostolic zeal. God not only calls us to use the gifts we have received to expand His Kingdom on earth, He also expects it of us. His expectation is a command of love. For those who understand this command, they see it as a glorious invitation to make an eternal difference in the lives of many. They do not see the apostolic works to which they are called as a burden. Rather, they see them as a joy, and that joy fuels their efforts. The result will have exponential effects for God's Kingdom.The second category of people is illustrated by the one servant who kept the one gold coin “stored away in a handkerchief” out of fear. These are the people who avoid evangelizing and furthering the Kingdom of God out of fear. Fear is paralyzing. But giving in to fear is a sin. It's a lack of faith and trust in God. Serving God will inevitably require courage on our part. It will demand that we step out of our comfort zone and do that which we may not immediately feel comfortable doing. But as that servant in the parable foretold, God is a demanding God. And He will not accept fear as an acceptable excuse not to zealously help to build the Kingdom of God.The third category of people is the category in which you definitely do not want to fall. These are those who actively work to undermine God's Kingship and reject Him as God. The world is filled with these people. The only thing we need to say about those who fall into this category is that which our Lord said of them. “Now as for those enemies of mine who did not want me as their king, bring them here and slay them before me.”Reflect, today, upon which category of people your life most fully resembles. Most likely it is one of the first two. Do you have great zeal for God's Kingdom? Are you willing to do all that you can to help build His Kingdom? Are you willing to do so even at the cost of great personal sacrifice? If so, then rejoice and know that an abundant reward awaits. But if you are one who struggles with fear, specifically, if you struggle with a fear to evangelize, to share the Gospel and to live your faith openly with humility and love, then spend more time with this parable and the fate of that one servant who hid the coin in the handkerchief. Engage in the apostolate. Commit yourself to the furtherance of God's Kingdom. Dispel all fear and know that you will never regret putting your whole heart and soul into the service of God and the building of His Kingdom. My demanding Lord, You have entrusted me with much, and You demand that I use all that You have given me to help build Your Kingdom of grace. What a privilege it is to be called by You and used by You for this apostolic mission. Please free me from all fear, dear Lord, so that I will never hesitate to serve You in the ways that You call me to serve. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Willem de Poorter, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.
“When we intentionally bring awareness to our internal world—our emotions, our sensations, our impulses; we begin to see the patterns that have been driving us. And once we see them, we are no longer bound by them. Awareness creates choice. Choice creates change.” — Dan SiegelFriends,In this second episode of a deeper dive into Styles of Relating, we reflect on how fear, hedging, and self-protection show up in our relationships, in contrast to the moments when, by God's grace, we find ourselves relating from trust, dignity, and self-giving love instead.Nothing has exposed and transformed our own patterns more than this work. Slowly, we are learning to pause, to notice what's actually motivating our reactions, to identify when fear and shame have snuck in sideways. But here's the gift: awareness really does open space for change. And that change has brought us more joy, safety, and connection in our marriage than we ever imagined.We are grateful to be on this journey with you—toward wholeness, deeper love, and a growing trust in God and His Kingdom.It's all been prologue. The best is yet to come.For the Kingdom,Morgan & Cherie
Today's Promise: Romans 8:16 Do you ever struggle with doubt, fear, or uncertainty in your walk with God? The key to a confident, joyful Christian life begins with understanding who you are in Christ. As a child of God, you are forgiven, loved, and empowered by the Holy Spirit. You are an heir to His Kingdom, and nothing can separate you from His love. In each episode of The Daily Promise, we explore God's Word in a way that touches your heart and transforms your life. You'll discover how the Holy Spirit confirms your identity as God's child, how to live with bold faith, and how to experience peace that surpasses understanding. Just as Jesus presents us to the Father, the Spirit whispers to our hearts, reminding us: we belong to Him. Step into the freedom, confidence, and hope that come from knowing you are God's child.
In this episode, Cynthia and Jenn dive into how to access the Holy Spirit's gifts as you make disciples. They unpack 1 Corinthians 12, exploring the incredible variety of spiritual gifts—from wisdom and healing to prophecy and tongues—and how they're distributed by God for the good of the body. They talk about practical ways to discover and grow in your gifts, including listening prayer, worship, and even taking steps of faith to experiment. You'll hear personal stories, insights on spiritual gift tests, and encouragement for those who feel their gifts aren't the “big ones.” Whether you're new to disciple-making or ready to go deeper, this conversation will inspire you to ask, seek, and step out in faith. The Holy Spirit has gifts for you—are you ready to use them for His Kingdom?
Celebrate the Solemnity of Jesus Christ, King of the Universe with this powerful reflection from Fr. Jonathan Meyer. Today's Gospel reveals Jesus reigning from the Cross, offering mercy to the Good Thief and promising, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” Fr. Meyer invites us to reject sin, choose Jesus, and begin living in His Kingdom right now—not someday, but today. He also wraps up our parish REBOOT journey and challenges us to share the joy we've received with others.
We will journey through some of the most powerful short stories ever told–stories that have shaped Christian faith for centuries. These are not just simple moral lessons. These are Kingdom revelations. With simple images– a tree, a lost coin, a house being built– Jesus opens our eyes to the beauty of God's heart, our need for salvation, and what it means to live in His Kingdom under His reign. The parables are how Jesus invites us in. They are windows into the heart of God and mirrors revealing our own. They confront us, comfort us, and ultimately call us to respond to the good news that God's Kingdom has drawn near in Jesus.This week, Pastor Jake Slebodnik out of Luke 8:4-25.WEBSITETo learn more about Redemption Tempe, find ways to get involved, or opportunities to serve, visit our website: https://tempe.redemptionaz.com.OUR APPDownload our app redtem.in/tempeappOR text "tempe app" to 77977STAY CONNECTEDFacebook: / redemptiontempe. .Twitter: / redemptiontem Instagram: / redemptiontempe.. .GIVINGEverything we have is a gift from the Lord because He owns it all. Therefore giving should be a priority for us who have received all we have. Giving cheerfully, sacrificially, and consistently is a part of our worship.Give Online: https://pushpay.com/g/redemptiontempe
There is such joy in Thanks and Giving. This is where we have the opportunity and privilege to grow in our relationship with Jesus as we thank God for what He has done in our lives and as we invest in His Kingdom. For followers of Jesus, Thanksgiving is not just one day, but every day of our lives. Our call is to invest in what is eternal. May we be found faithful in building God's church and raising up the next generation in Christ. Let's be generous and make a significant impact for the glory of our great God. We have been blessed not simply for ourselves, but to be a blessing. Let's invest together as we build God's Kingdom today. This is our time.
About This SeriesMany of us are endlessly chasing things that will never truly satisfy. We live in a world obsessed with temporary things - money, success, approval, comfort. But Jesus invites us into His Kingdom - a way of life that turns the world's values upside down and fills us with real purpose, hope, and joy. Kingdom Come is a five-week journey that will challenge us to shift our focus from earthly pursuits to eternal priorities and to live as Kingdom people in a world that desperately needs to see and know the grace of Jesus.This Week's EpisodeIn the world's eyes, success is about power, influence, and status. But in Jesus' Kingdom, the greatest are the least, the humble are exalted, and the last become first. The upside-down nature of the Kingdom challenges us to rethink how we measure greatness.Ready For More?Check out firstchristian.com to find opportunities to connect and grow.We'd love to see you this coming Sunday on-campus or streaming online at 9 and 11am.Follow @fcccanton on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay connected!Support the show
This week, Pastor Jason wraps up our annual Kingdom Builders series with a powerful and honest message titled “Excited and Scared.”When God calls us to give, many of us stand in the tension of excitement and fear. Excited to trust God. Excited to build His Kingdom. Excited to see lives changed.But at the same time… scared.Scared to let go.Scared to trust.Scared to believe God will come through again.In this message, Pastor Jason unpacks:✨ Why generosity is about the heart, not the amount✨ What it means to be “rich toward God” instead of building our own kingdom✨ How sacrificial giving unlocks joy and deep trust✨ The difference between hitting the right target and wasting your life on the wrong one✨ What God promises when we honor Him with our financesThis message will challenge you, encourage you, and help you pray the bold end-of-year prayer:“God, based on all the ways You've blessed me this year, what can I give to build Your Kingdom and not mine?”If you're ready to take a step of faith—excited and scared—this message is for you.
Tom Logue - November 16th 2025 A soft heart welcomes the kingdom — a hard heart keeps it out. This week, Tom continues our King and His Kingdom series in Matthew 19:1–12, where Jesus is confronted about marriage, divorce, and sexuality. In a culture — ancient and modern — that treats people and marriage as disposable, Jesus calls us back to God's original design: one man and one woman, united in covenant, not consumerism. Tom exposes how hardness of heart keeps us from being formed by God, and how the softness of surrender leads to real freedom. From Play-Doh analogies to powerful truths about covenant love and sexuality, this message challenges every listener — married or single — to yield to the Artist's hands and trust His good design. Learn more about our church: https://restoredtemecula.church Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restoredtemecula and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restoredtemecula #Matthew19 #Marriage #Divorce #Sexuality #Covenant #Freedom #KingAndHisKingdom #RestoredTemecula Share this message with someone who needs to hear it. Chapters (00:00:00) - Welcome to Restored Church(00:00:35) - Matthew 19: Release of Your Freedom(00:06:37) - Jesus Calling the Lost Sheep(00:10:03) - Pharisees Permitted Husbands to Divorce Their Wives(00:12:20) - Jesus on Divorcing His Wife(00:17:57) - Pharisees: Hard Hearts and Soft Will(00:23:26) - How to Win a Wedding: Open Hearts(00:30:52) - What is a Covenant?(00:33:28) - Marriage is a Covenant(00:34:18) - Married People: Don't Let Minivans Break Down(00:39:35) - God's Plan for Marriage(00:42:29) - God Talking About Sex(00:46:44) - Why Does God Care Who I Sleep With?(00:50:04) - Goodbye, To Be Continued Next Week(00:50:46) - Preaching on Marriage and Sexuality(00:59:39) - Responding to God's Love
When we enter the doctor's office, sometimes we need to be willing to swallow a bit of bitter medicine, but the pill will heal us when we swallow it. The same is true about the Gospel. When we hear the Gospel, we hear our own mistakes and our own sinfulness. The only way the Gospel can heal us is when we are willing to swallow the bitterness and allow the healing of the Church to save us. When it comes to the Gospel of Christ, every bitter pill is accompanied by sweetness because we are all called to His Kingdom, even though we are sinners.
Read OnlineAsked by the Pharisees when the Kingdom of God would come, Jesus said in reply, “The coming of the Kingdom of God cannot be observed, and no one will announce, ‘Look, here it is,' or, ‘There it is.' For behold, the Kingdom of God is among you.” Luke 17:20–21Why did the Pharisees ask Jesus this question? Why did they want to know when the Kingdom of God would come? To answer this question, we must first look at the full context of the various communications between Jesus and the Pharisees. When we do this and see the many ways that the Pharisees attempted to trap Jesus in speech and the times in which our Lord firmly rebuked the Pharisees, it seems clear that the Pharisees did not ask Jesus this question in innocence and openness. Instead, they once again were trying to trap Him. They posed a question by which they gave the appearance of believing Jesus' teachings that the Kingdom of God was coming, but they asked not in faith but in mockery and in an attempt to trip Jesus up in His answer.Jesus' answer is mysterious. It leaves little room for the Pharisees to use Jesus' speech against Him. Perhaps the Pharisees were hoping that Jesus would say that the Kingdom was coming soon, or next month, or within the year. But Jesus' answer leaves them with confusion in the face of this mystery that “the Kingdom of God is among you.”Much of what Jesus says can only be fully understood through faith. He often speaks in veiled language intentionally, because the only way to lift the veil to perceive the meaning of His teachings is to rely upon the inspired gift of faith. Faith is like a key to unlock the secrets of the mysteries of God. Faith becomes a lens through which every parable, every figure of speech, and every mystery taught by our Lord is understood. But without this inspired gift of faith, Jesus' teachings remain mysterious and incomprehensible.When you ponder these words that “the Kingdom of God is among you,” what do you understand? Are you able to use the gift of faith to unlock the meaning of this sacred teaching? Interestingly, reading Jesus' words, spoken in a veiled way, offer us the opportunity to test our own faith. If we read these words and are left in confusion, then this is a clear sign that we need to pray for and be open to the gift of faith. But if we do read Jesus' mysterious teachings and the light of understanding is given to us, then this is a clear reason to rejoice, since this comprehension is only possible through the gift of faith.Reflect, today, upon this sacred teaching of our Lord: “The Kingdom of God is among you.” Meditate on those words and pray for insight and understanding. Jesus' words are true. His Kingdom truly is everywhere, all around us and within us. It is alive and well. Do you see it? Do you perceive it? Do you see your role in building it? Use these questions as a test of your own level of faith and know that God wants to reveal to you these mysteries that are only able to be comprehended by His grace. My mysterious Lord, Your Kingdom is everywhere, all around us and within us. I do believe. Give me the eyes of faith so that I may continually perceive Your hand at work. May I always be attentive to all that You wish to reveal to me and open to the deep meaning of the mysteries You do reveal. Increase my faith, dear Lord, so that I may know You and join in the upbuilding of Your glorious Kingdom. Jesus, I trust in You.Jacob Jordaens, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.
In this episode, we're diving into one of the most powerful promises in Scripture—Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.”Have you ever found yourself chasing direction, or provision and still coming up empty? God doesn't want you to chase what He's already promised to add. Jesus gives us the answer in this one verse: it's not about chasing things—it's about seeking and pursuing Him.We'll look at what “seek” means in the Greek and how “first” reveals God's divine order in our lives. When we align our hearts under His Kingdom, everything is added by Him already!Through personal reflection, scripture personalization, and faith declarations, we'll discover how to live from a place of divine order instead of striving. When God is first, everything else follows. You'll learn how seeking God first isn't just about putting Him at the top of your to-do list, but that every thought and action flows from Him being in the center—a God-centeredness position that opens the flow of divine provision, direction, and peace. When you seek first His Kingdom, you'll never come up empty-handed!Personalize Scripture With Me! Get Your Serenity Journal & Connect: https://www.jaymeelizabeth.com/CONNECT WITH JAYME ON SOCIALS: Instagram l YouTube l Pinterest l Facebook
Read Online“The person who is trustworthy in very small matters is also trustworthy in great ones; and the person who is dishonest in very small matters is also dishonest in great ones.” Luke 16:10What are the “small matters” in life? Most likely, if you asked many different people from all walks of life this question, then you would receive many different answers. But if we consider the context of this statement of Jesus, then it is clear that one of the primary small matters of which He speaks is our use of money.Many people live as though the attainment of wealth were of the highest importance. There are many who dream of becoming rich. Some regularly play the lottery in the very unlikely hope that they will hit it big. Others dedicate themselves to much hard work in their careers so that they can advance, make more money and, so they believe, become happier as they become wealthier. And others regularly daydream about what they would do if they were rich. But from the perspective of God, material wealth is a very small and unimportant matter. Money is useful insofar as it is one of the ordinary means by which we go about providing for ourselves and our families. But it truly is small in importance when it comes to the divine perspective. With that said, one way to be entrusted by Jesus with “great” matters is to use your money appropriately. We become “trustworthy” in this small matter of money when we only give it the value that it has. In other words, we must see money only as one means to the end of fulfilling God's perfect will. When we work to rid ourselves of excessive desires and dreams of riches, and when we use what we have in accord with God's will, then this act on our part will open the door to our Lord to entrust us with much more. What is that “much more?” It's the spiritual matters that pertain to our eternal salvation and the salvation of others. God wants to entrust to you the great responsibility of building His Kingdom on earth. He wants to use you to share His saving message with others. But He will first wait until you show yourself trustworthy in small matters, such as using your money well. And then, as you fulfill His will in these less important ways, you will begin to see Him call you to greater works. Reflect, today, upon the fact that God wants great things from you. The goal of all of our lives is to be used by God in incredible ways. If this is something you desire, then do every small act in your life with great care. Show many small acts of kindness. Try to be thoughtful of others. Put others' needs before your own. And commit yourself to using the money you have for God's glory and in accord with His will. As you do these small things, you will begin to be amazed at how God is able to begin entrusting you with more, and, through you, great things will happen that have eternal effects in your life and in the lives of others. My trustworthy Lord, You were entrusted with the greatest good ever known. Your Father in Heaven entrusted to You the salvation of the world. Please help me to share in this task by being faithful to Your holy will in every small way. As I seek to serve You in the small matters of life, I pray that I will be able to be used for even greater ones. My life is Yours, dear Lord. Use me as You will. Jesus, I trust in You. Image: Let Your Light Shine by Lawrence OP, license CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.
In this episode, Mandy Arioto—CEO of MomCo (formerly MOPS)—joins the conversation to remind us that motherhood isn't just about raising kids. It's about raising the Kingdom. Together, we talk about how motherhood is the holiest ground many of us will ever stand on—where God refines us, redefines us, and shows us what really matters. From sleepless nights and endless laundry to the deep spiritual work of shaping little hearts, Mandy helps us see that motherhood is not a distraction from important work—it is the important work. We discuss how surrendering control, slowing down, and embracing fun can transform our homes and our hearts. And we explore how to quiet the world's noise and remember that God delights in the details of our daily lives. Whether you're in the trenches with littles, navigating the tween years, or preparing for an empty nest, this conversation will remind you that God is using every moment to build His Kingdom through you. Subscribe to The Speakeasy YouTube Channel for more faith-filled conversations that inspire, encourage, and refresh: