Podcasts about his kingdom

Ever wonder what you were really made for? You weren't created to build your own empire- you were made to partner with God in building His Kingdom. In this message, we explore how your God-given identity as an image bearer shapes your purpose, and why everyday obedience matters more than you think.

Follow the Wind by Megan J. Conner explores how the Holy Spirit often moves like the wind—subtle, powerful, and unseen. Through a vivid moment on a quiet balcony overlooking the ocean, Megan reflects on Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus in John 3:8 and encourages us to embrace the evidence of God’s presence, even when we can’t physically see it. This devotional invites listeners to deepen their faith walk, embrace spiritual discernment, and trust God’s guidance—even when the path isn’t clear. Highlights Reflecting on the invisible but undeniable movement of the Holy Spirit A faith-building reminder that God leads us even when we can’t see the full picture Encouragement to take a personal inventory of areas where faith feels strong versus where doubt creeps in Scripture focus: “The wind blows where it wishes…” – John 3:8 Practical prayer prompt and journaling activity to strengthen your trust in God Join the Conversation Have you ever felt the quiet nudge of the Spirit or seen God’s hand guiding you when the road ahead was unclear? Share your experience and tag @LifeAudioNetwork using #FaithInTheUnseen. We’d love to hear how you’re following the wind.

When it comes to money, most people are searching for two things: security and peace of mind. That's understandable—life is unpredictable, expenses arise, and markets swing. But what if true peace isn't found in your circumstances at all?Financial wisdom doesn't start with a budget or a savings plan. It begins with trust—specifically, trusting in the Lord. Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”If you chase peace through your paycheck or portfolio, you'll always come up short. But when Christ is your foundation, you begin to see money in a new light—not as a source of peace, but as a tool to steward.Five Secrets to Financial Wisdom from God's Word1. Know Who Owns It All. Psalm 24:1 says, “The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it.” Everything belongs to God—your income, your retirement, even your ability to earn. That means we're not owners; we're stewards, entrusted with God's resources to manage faithfully.2. Spend With Purpose. Jesus asks in Luke 16:11, “If you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?” Spending should reflect God's priorities—giving, saving, living within your means, and investing in eternal impact.3. Avoid the Slavery of Debt. Proverbs 22:7 warns, “The borrower is slave to the lender.” Debt can limit your freedom to give and respond to God's calling. Wise stewards build margin and pursue freedom—not because debt is always wrong, but because freedom is better.4. Save With Perspective. Proverbs 21:20 says, “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” Saving isn't about hoarding; it's preparation for what God might have ahead. But remember: your security isn't in your savings—it's in the Savior.5. Give First, and Freely. 2 Corinthians 9:7 tells us, “God loves a cheerful giver.” Generosity reflects God's heart. It breaks the grip of greed and aligns us with His Kingdom. When we give, we declare, “God, I trust You more than I trust this money.”Anchored in ChristFollowing these biblical principles won't guarantee worldly success. Even the most faithful stewards face trials. But when your foundation is Christ, you're anchored. Isaiah 33:6 says, “He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge.”So if you're looking for security or peace, don't start with a spreadsheet—start with surrender. Financial wisdom begins when you recognize that your Provider is also your Redeemer. And in Him, you have more than enough.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My deceased friend's estate is in probate, and he owned an LLC registered in another state. I've been told that if a new manager isn't appointed, the LLC will be considered closed after 90 days. Once my friend's family receives the letters of instruction, how should they go about settling or managing the LLC?I'm struggling financially and can't make this month's mortgage payment. My lender has offered two options: a repayment plan and a forbearance. What's the difference between them, and how will each option affect my credit score?My husband is switching jobs, and his current 401(k) has a balance of less than $500. His new employer doesn't offer a retirement plan. What are our best options for what to do with this small amount?My son is thinking about filing for bankruptcy, but still hopes to buy a house sometime in the future. How will bankruptcy impact his credit, and realistically, how long will it take for him to be able to qualify for a mortgage again?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)The Sound Mind Investing Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Managing Your Money From a Biblical Perspective by Austin Pryor with Mark BillerWisdom 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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

How do you live a life that truly flourishes—not just financially, but in every area God cares about?Today, we're talking about how to live with purpose, peace, and wisdom by following God's design for life. Ron Blue joins us to unpack biblical principles that lead to flourishing, not through formulas, but through faithfulness.Ron Blue is the co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and the author of numerous books on biblical finance, most notably "Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment."Flourishing Begins with a Different FoundationAs followers of Christ, we're not simply aiming for a better life—we're called to a different one. A life that flourishes isn't measured by worldly success, but by alignment with God's design. When we understand that, everything changes.The life God created for each of us is unique. When we live according to His wisdom, we flourish—not because we have more, but because we are living as He intended. Flourishing means experiencing contentment that doesn't depend on circumstances. We don't need money to be content. We don't need approval to feel secure. Why? Because we are fully loved by the God who promises never to leave us or forsake us.Stewardship Is the Starting PointIf we want to flourish, we must begin with stewardship. Everything we have—our time, talents, relationships, money—comes from God. He owns it all. We're not owners; we're managers. When we recognize that, we stop living for ourselves and start using every resource for His glory. That includes how we spend, give, save, and even how we relate to others.Generosity Marks a Flourishing LifeA flourishing life is a generous life. When God's Word shapes us, we become generous with our time, with our finances, and with every resource entrusted to us. Generosity is not something we manufacture—it's a byproduct of spiritual transformation. And it runs counter to the culture around us, which tells us to hold tightly to what we have. Instead, we hold everything with open hands.We Live with IntegrityThe Bible speaks often about deceit and greed—two things that will always rob us of flourishing. When we live according to God's wisdom, we pursue integrity and honesty in every area of life. Proverbs offers constant guidance on living truthfully, avoiding dishonest gain, and practicing righteousness in our dealings. Flourishing is tied closely to living a life of character.We Live with PurposeWe're not here by accident. God placed us in this time and place for a reason. Our lives are temporary, but they're filled with eternal purpose. We're living today with heaven in view. Flourishing means recognizing that this life is preparation for eternity with our Lord. It means embracing the mission He's given us and making every decision with the long view in mind.When we step back and look at the big picture, we realize what a privilege it is to manage what God has entrusted to us. Stewardship isn't a burden—it's an invitation. An invitation to participate in His Kingdom work. An invitation to trust Him. An invitation to live a life that truly flourishes.Let's remember: God owns it all. We are stewards. And we get to use His resources for His glory. That is the foundation of a flourishing life.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm considering a 0% financing offer and could pay it off within 12 to 18 months—but I'm also able to pay the full amount upfront. Which option makes better financial sense?I'm planning to take paid maternity leave, but I don't intend to return to the company afterward. I'm struggling with whether this is the right thing to do and would love some guidance.My son and daughter-in-law recently sold a tiny house that we helped them build. They're returning the money we put into it—are there any tax implications or other issues we should be aware of?We're updating our kitchen by painting cabinets and making some interior improvements. We can pay it off in 6 to 12 months, but should we use a HELOC, take out a home equity loan, or borrow from our investment savings?I've heard that a trust can help avoid probate, but I have a testamentary trust, and the courthouse says my property will still go through probate. What's the difference?I'm exploring a dynasty trust to protect assets for future generations, and I'm also interested in a charitable remainder trust to help with capital gains taxes. Is there a way to combine these strategies effectively?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Growing In God Podcast   Web Description: How do we walk through the end times? By walking with God! It is during these times that Christ's redemption and the Kingdom of God are nearer to us than ever before. Therefore, we look up. We are not focused on what is happening in the world. We are already seated with Christ in the heavenly places. And from there we appropriate His great power to be His effective instruments in the world.   Show Notes: It is easy to study the Bible at home or in a nice study group. But it is in circumstances that challenge us and demand something of us personally where we begin to implement what we have studied in the Bible. We need an atmosphere where we can turn our knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures into an enabling to walk in and execute what we have learned. This shows us how to think about the end times.   We can look at all the turmoil and spiritual conflict in the world and be concerned, even fearful, that we are entering the end times. But the end-time offers us a unique opportunity to have our faith tested and refined like pure gold. These times enable us to reach into the power of the Holy Spirit and move in the gifts and ministries required for this day. You could say, “But the events will be so terrifying that people's hearts will fail them out of fear!” It all depends on what you are focused on.   Yeshua (Jesus) said, “When you see these things happen, look up! Lift up your heads because your salvation is drawing near. The Kingdom of God is near!” Put your focus on Christ who is seated in the heavenly places with the Father, who in His great love has also seated us there with Him. We are able now to dwell in His Kingdom. It is closer in these times than it has ever been. Now is the time to look up and reach into this great authority and power the Father has given us in Christ. We take this opportunity to appropriate everything we have learned in the Scriptures and apply them.   Key Verses:   •       Matthew 16:21–23. “But He turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind Me, Satan!'” •       Luke 22:31–32. “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat.” •       1 Peter 1:6–7. “… the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold.” •       Malachi 3:3. “He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold.” •       Luke 21:25–28. “When these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads.” •       Luke 21:29–31. “When you see these things happening, recognize that the kingdom of God is near.” •       Ephesians 2:1–6. “God … seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.”   Quotes:   •       “We can't just study the Scriptures. We can't just talk about our faith and have that faith disconnected from what is necessary for us to walk in these things.” •       “The Kingdom of God is near to us, and we can bring ourselves into that Kingdom. We can experience the things of the Kingdom, the fulfillments of the Kingdom now, if we are looking up.” •       “If God made this available that He has raised us up—it's past tense. Don't say, ‘Well, when I die, I am going to heaven.' No. When we're here right now, we have the ability to rise up and be with Him where He is at the right hand of the Father and to move in our walk with God from that place.”   Takeaways:   1.    We live in the age where God has placed us. We should be grateful to Him that we are a part of His family and part of those who are walking in the knowledge of the gospel during these times. 2.    When you are in a time of need, you learn to appropriate all that the Scriptures are saying. So rather than succumbing to fearfulness about the end times, we should recognize the opportunity that we have as individual believers to walk in these days in a way that glorifies the Lord, brings His strength and blessing, and appropriates all that we need. 3.    In the end times the Lord commands us to look up because His redemption and His Kingdom draw near. In these difficult times we have a greater ability to minister God's redemption to the world and to walk in His Kingdom. 4.    We are to be in the heavenly places seated with Christ and the Father in the Holy Spirit. From there we move in the earth as God's chosen people and His instruments right now in this day and through the time of the end.

Read OnlineJesus said to his disciples: “The Kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” Matthew 13:44Today's Gospel presents us with two very short and similar parables. In the first, quoted above, the Kingdom of Heaven is likened to a “treasure.” In the second parable, the Kingdom of Heaven is likened to a “pearl of great price.” Though these parables are very similar to each other, there are also subtle differences worth pondering. It appears that the treasure mentioned in the first parable is discovered almost by accident. The person simply “finds” it. This is in contrast to the second parable, in that the merchant who finds the pearl of great price did so after “searching” for it. We often encounter the Treasure of the Gospel without even looking for it. We do so any time God intervenes in our lives without us seeking His intervention. For example, if someone were to offer an act of charity to you without you seeking it out, this is God giving you a treasure of His Kingdom. Or if someone shares with you their faith, or an inspiration they received, this is indeed a treasure given to you by God. The problem is that many times when we are given these treasures of the Gospel, we do not always see them as treasures. Imagine, for example, if the person in this parable were to stumble upon the treasure in the field and fail to open it out of indifference. They see it from a distance, have a bit of curiosity about what is in the box, but they are not energetic enough to actually open the box and look inside. In that case, the person would have no reason to go and sell all that they have so as to buy the field in which the treasure is found.One clear message that this first parable reveals is that we must be attentive to the countless treasures of God's graces given to us each and every day. God is so prolific in offering us grace, that we truly do stumble upon His grace all the time. Thus, having eyes to perceive His actions and ears to Hear His Voice is essential.A second message clearly given in both of these parables is that once we discover the graces God gives us every day, we must foster within ourselves a desire for those graces that is so strong that we are willing to do anything necessary to obtain them. The discovery is made through the gift of faith, but the discovery by faith must then be followed with a zeal that drives our will to conform to that discovery. Reflect, today, upon two things. First, have you discovered the treasures God has given to you? If you hesitate in answering this, then it's most likely the case that there is much you have yet to discover. Secondly, as you do discover the riches that come with the gift of faith, then have you allowed that which God has spoken to you to consume you to such a point that you are willing to sell all you have, meaning, do whatever it takes to further accept all God wants to bestow? Resolutely determine to go forth on this holy search and you will find that the riches of grace that you obtain are of infinite value. My Lord of all riches, You bestow upon me and upon all Your children countless graces every day. The treasures of Your mercy are of infinite value. Please open my eyes so that I can see and my ears so that I can hear so as to discover all that You wish to bestow. May You and the riches of Your Kingdom become the one and only, all-consuming focus of my life. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Possibly Rembrandt, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

You were never meant to live a life of just getting by—you were created with purpose, intention, and calling. God has placed greatness inside of you, not for your own glory, but to impact the world around you for His Kingdom. This message will challenge you to step out of complacency and step into the more God has destined for your life.

Pastor Jonathan Cargill shares a powerful message on the spiritual connection between people, land and the unseen realm. He explores how our righteousness or wickedness can affect not just individuals, but entire communities and even the physical environment. In certain environments, if we don't remain spiritually alert, we can come under the influence of territorial spirits. God is calling us to stand firm, walk in authority, and carry His Kingdom into every place we go!Our heart at Celebration Church Rarotonga is that this message will greatly bless your walk with Jesus and help bring you closer to Him. We pray that you would be stirred to live a life that is passionate about loving Jesus!We would love to hear from you! Connect with us through the links below:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/celebrationraroInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/celebrationchurch_rarotonga/Website: https://www.celebrationrarotonga.com/

In this seventh message of The Prayer That God Answers, Dr. Michael Youssef confronts the sin of worry and anxiety through the petition, “Give us this day our daily bread.” He boldly declares that worry is not a personality trait—it is idolatry, rooted in distrust of God's promises. Jesus taught us to pray for daily provision only after we've sought the glory of God, His Kingdom, and His will. Dr. Youssef calls believers to reorder their priorities, place full trust in Christ, and refuse to live like practical atheists. God is not impressed with our fear; He desires our faith. Only when we repent of self-dependence and walk in daily surrender can we experience the peace and provision He promises.

Prayer Moment 4 of 4 in JulyPrayer for Families of Laborers1. Pray for Parents and Families of Laborers - Pray that parents and families of laborers and potential laborers in the Buddhist world would release their children to go and make disciples.  2. Parents to Offer Their Children to God: Pray that parents and grandparents would offer their children and grandchildren to God for service to His Kingdom.  3. Stewardship of the Lives of Young People: Pray that parents, pastors, and youth pastors would steward the lives and callings of young people.

Title: The Surprisingly Good News of The Fear of The LordSpeaker: Preston LienScripture: Psalm 22Episode Overview:In this powerful sermon from Psalm 22, we explore the haunting cry of Jesus from the cross—“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”—and uncover how this ancient psalm paints a vivid picture of Christ's suffering a thousand years before the crucifixion. Far from being a moment of despair alone, Psalm 22 leads us from anguish to hope, from isolation to restoration. Through David's words, fulfilled in Jesus, we are reminded that we are not abandoned—because Jesus was. He suffered not only to relate to our pain, but to bring us home.Key Highlights:• How Psalm 22 mirrors the crucifixion in startling detail• Why Jesus quoted this psalm from the cross• The meaning behind the Hebrew word “tola” and its scarlet symbolism• How God the Father also suffered in giving His Son• A call to trust and worship the One who was forsaken so we never have to beCall to Action:Come home. Whether you're burdened by suffering, weighed down by questions, or just longing to belong—this message reminds us that Jesus paid the ultimate price to bring us into His Kingdom and His family. Commit your life to Him, share this good news with others, and live each day in anticipation of your true home.Redeemer Church211 Northshore Dr. Bellingham, WA 98226www.redeemernw.org

It is humbling to watch what God is doing, but even more humbling to know that He invites us to be a part of it. God did not send you here to sit. He did not save you to sit. He wants to use you to build His Kingdom. In Colossians 4, we are reminded that God uses all kinds of people for His purposes. Some are steady and faithful, while others come from a painful past, some have experienced failure, and others are recognized for their prayer, generosity, or unique gifts. No matter who you are or what your story looks like, God has a plan for you. Your past does not disqualify you. It may be the very thing God wants to use for His glory. He wants to save you, redeem you, and use you. If you will make yourself available, God will open the door. There is a seat at the table, and God wants to use you to build His Kingdom. Listen to the final sermon in our In The Word series, walking through the book of Colossians.Check out our video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/EI_wGAnJRl4Subscribe to our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/8wmeCwBf_zkLearn more about us at chestnutmountain.orgFollow us on Facebook & Instagram @chestnutmtn_Don't forget to subscribe to this podcast, leave a review, and let us know what you think.

God adds everything needed to the Believer's life when they are seeking His Kingdom and His Righteousness before all things other

God adds everything needed to the Believer's life when they are seeking His Kingdom and His Righteousness before all things other

Nehemiah 3 shows how God uses ordinary people, side by side, to build His Kingdom. Every person matters. Empowered by the Spirit, we serve together in unity and purpose.

All of us know what it is like to feel helpless. But when we are following Jesus, we aren't helpless or useless. Instead, we can become willing conduits of His Kingdom. Join us this week as we explore what it means to follow Jesus with our whole life

Join us as we continue in our series called "Parables in Luke". This weeks message from Pastor Cole Tawney is titled “Count the Cost”- Luke 14:25-35. As followers of Jesus we must count the cost of what it means to follow him with our lives, as the top priority and in surrender to Him until His Kingdom comes in full one day. Thanks for watching!

Read OnlineJesus was praying in a certain place, and when he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples.” Luke 11:1In today's Gospel we are given three teachings on prayer. First, Jesus teaches His disciples what has come to be called “The Lord's Prayer.” Second, He teaches about the importance of persistence in prayer. Third, He teaches about the fruit that comes from correct and persistent prayer.The Church Father Tertullian said that The Lord's Prayer “is truly the summary of the whole Gospel.” Saint Augustine said, “Run through all the words of the holy prayers [in Scripture], and I do not think that you will find anything in them that is not contained and included in the Lord's Prayer.” Saint Thomas Aquinas said, “The Lord's Prayer is the most perfect of prayers.... In it we ask, not only for all the things we can rightly desire, but also in the sequence that they should be desired” (See the Catechism of the Catholic Church #2761–2763).It's amazing to consider what these great teachers of the faith have said about this short prayer. Perhaps because of our familiarity with this prayer we can easily gloss over the depth of its meaning. We can fail to use it as a foundation and model for all of our prayer. One way to correct this tendency is to use The Lord's Prayer for an extended period of time by prayerfully pondering every word slowly and meditatively. Doing so will help open us up to these perfect “instructions” on how we should pray.Immediately after Jesus taught this short prayer, He taught a lesson about persistence in prayer. He taught that we must not simply say a few prayers and leave it at that, giving up if they do not appear to be answered. Instead, we must continuously beg God for His grace until it is bestowed in its fullness.What will we receive from persistent prayer? This is an important point. We ought not go to God with our own wants and desires. We ought not beg Him for things that do not fall within His perfect will. Instead, when our prayer is modeled on the Lord's Prayer, and when it is persistent and grounded in faith, then our prayer will be for what the Father bestows upon us, that is His will alone. We must pray that His Kingdom will come. We must trust that He will provide for our needs. We must seek His forgiveness for our sins, and we must pray that He will protect us from the evil one.Reflect, today, upon that perfect prayer, The Lord's Prayer. Spend time studying it, thinking about each petition, the order in which Jesus laid it out, its simplicity and its clarity. Acknowledge that because we pray The Lord's Prayer so often, we can sometimes miss its true meaning and beauty. Our Lord gave us this prayer for a reason. Make sure that you do all you can to discover its meaning and practice its teaching. Our Father, Who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth, as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: James Tissot, 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.

Everything we have is a blessing from God, and how we handle our resources has a spiritual impact. In this sermon, Pastor Allen Jackson discusses how to be a good steward of our resources, gifts, and talents. He shares some of the Bible's promises surrounding money, and he corrects three common misconceptions about wealth and Christianity—that it's unspiritual to be rich, everyone should share equally, and prosperity is an indicator of holiness. God gives each of us gifts and abilities, and we have the opportunity to use them to advance His Kingdom!

We all thirst for something—but are we drinking from the right well? In this heartfelt devotional, Alexis A. Goring shares how a simple moment at a lemonade stand revealed a deeper truth about our spiritual lives. Reflecting on John 4:10, she draws a powerful parallel between physical thirst and the soul’s longing for the Living Water that only Jesus can provide. Whether you’re feeling spiritually dry, chasing worldly “quick fixes,” or just in need of renewal, this Christian devotional on John 4 offers refreshing encouragement: Only Jesus can truly satisfy.

Read Online“You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?” They said to him, “We can.” He replied, “My chalice you will indeed drink, but to sit at my right and at my left, this is not mine to give but is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.”  Matthew 20:22–23Saint James was the brother of the beloved disciple John and the son of Zebedee and Salome. Jesus called both James and John while they were working with their father, mending their fishing nets in their boat. Their response to Jesus' call was immediate: “...they left their father Zebedee in the boat along with the hired men and followed him” (Mark 1:20). James was present at the raising of Jarius' daughter, the Transfiguration, and is mentioned a few other times in the Gospels. In the Acts of the Apostles, James is identified as the first of the Apostles to give his life as a martyr, being beheaded by Herod in Jerusalem in the year 44 AD (See Acts 12:2).Among the other references to Saint James in the Gospels is the passage quoted above in which Salome, the mother of James and John, asks Jesus for the unique favor of allowing her two sons to sit at His left and right in His Kingdom. Upon her request on behalf of her two sons, Jesus turns to them and asks if they can drink the chalice that He is going to drink, to which they respond, “We can.” And though this is a bold request on their parts and that of their mother, there is also something courageous and holy about their request.Just prior to this passage, as Jesus journeyed to Jerusalem with the Twelve, He explained to them the fate that awaited Him. “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and hand him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day” (Matthew 20:18–19). This was the third time that Jesus explained this to the Twelve and, therefore, it must have started to truly sink in. It is within this context that James and John ask to remain close to Jesus in His mission of establishing His Kingdom, even though Jesus explained that the path to that Kingdom was His suffering and death.Each of us should learn from James and John. Though their request might have had some selfishness mixed in with it, it was also courageous. It showed they did not fear Jesus' prediction of His passion. Instead, they wanted to be part of it and were willing to endure whatever was necessary so as to share in the glory of the Kingdom to come. Reflect, today, upon making a similar request to our Lord. Say to Him that you desire to be close to Him in His Kingdom, and do so with the full knowledge that the path to this glory is by drinking the chalice of selfless sacrifice that Christ drank. It is obtained by courageously following Him, no matter what that requires of you. If that means suffering and persecution, so be it. If that means great sacrifice, so be it. If that means abandoning certain hopes and dreams, so be it. See yourself walking with these disciples and Jesus on the road to Jerusalem where our Lord would offer His life in sacrifice. Saint James would soon follow, dying by the sword of Herod. Say “Yes” to whatever our Lord asks of you and commit yourself to the drinking of the chalice of selfless sacrificial love. Doing so will enable you to share in the glory of the Kingdom of Heaven. My glorious King, You invite all people to share in Your glorious Kingdom to come. May I enter that Kingdom with all the saints and fully share in its glory. I choose that path that leads to that Kingdom and willingly offer my life in sacrifice to You and for others. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Sons of Thunder 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.

IT'S TIME TO BE GREAT | Sermon on Luke 19:1-6We live in a world where greatness is often measured by status, power, and how high you can climb—but Jesus flips that idea completely. In this eye-opening and soul-stirring message, we look at the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1-6 and uncover the truth: God's definition of greatness isn't about going up, it's about coming down.Zacchaeus was a rich, successful man, but still searching for something more. When he heard Jesus was passing by, he climbed a tree to get a glimpse—but what changed his life was Jesus calling him by name and inviting him to come down. That moment of humility and quick obedience became the doorway to transformation.This sermon challenges us to rethink greatness. Jesus said, “The greatest among you must be a servant” (Matthew 23:11). Greatness isn't found in striving for recognition but in surrendering our lives and choosing humility.

Donna spent 25 years in various countries in Asia, including warzones. Her stories of listening to the ‘inner voice' of God to guide and draw people into His Kingdom are beautiful, instructive and challenging to us in how we seek to share our faith. “God, what do you want me to know in this situation” is a simple (and profound) prayer, whether being held at gunpoint in the extreme, or whenever fear creeps into our day-to-day activities. It's a great episode! ▶️ Watch it on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/OJzGMrdyw2cDonna and husband Jamie founded www.identityexchange.com and I can't recommend it highly enough in helping us to live fearlessly out of our true identity. Instagram: @thedonnawinship---

Growing In God Podcast   Web Description: The spiritual battle we face today, as Daniel described, attempts to wear us down. But according to the Word of God, we can hide in a secret place under the shadow of His wing. He has seated us with Him in the heavenly places. Let us live in that place and move from that place in everything we do. This is our strength that the Lord has sent us in this generation to proclaim deliverance for Israel and the gathering of the nations into His Kingdom.   Show Notes: The people of Israel have had to live under continual missile attacks. This lifestyle of warfare that drags on and on is satan's tactic to wear down the saints, and it is not in alignment with God's promises. We must be able to see an end to the warfare and see a time of peace emerge. As we read in Daniel 7, satan tries to wear us down but his dominion will be taken away, annihilated, and destroyed forever.   This reality already exists in the heavenly realm where satan no longer exists because he was cast down to the earth, which is where his wrath is focused. If our focus is down here on this natural level, we should not be surprised that we are running into problems. We need to move into the heavenly places where we dwell with Christ at the right hand of the Father. We are to dwell with Him there and move with Him from there in all that we do.   We need to stay where God is positioning us and not waver. We need to continue our walk in the Spirit and exercise His Word, as it is already finished. Israel had lost everything—like a land that was consumed by swarming locusts—but God is restoring Israel just as He promised. And you can feel like you are being overwhelmed by a cloud of locusts that are trying to devour you until there is nothing left of your strength, your hope, or your faith. Do not buy into that feeling. We live in the moment of the restoration. We live in the moment of all things being finished and completed and handed over to the saints.   Key Verses:   •       Psalm 31:20. “You hide them in the secret place of Your presence.” •       Psalm 91:1–4. “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.” •       Judges 6:1–6. “Israel was brought very low because of Midian, and the sons of Israel cried to the Lord.” •       Matthew 6:6. “When you pray, go into your inner room, close your door.” •       Isaiah 26:20. “Enter into your rooms and close your doors behind you.” •       Joel 2:25–27. “I will make up to you for the years that the swarming locust has eaten.” •       Judges 6:14. “Go in this your strength and deliver Israel.” •       Daniel 7:24–26. “His dominion will be taken away, annihilated and destroyed forever.” •       Revelation 12:7–12. “Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was thrown down to the earth.” •       Ephesians 6:18. “Be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints.” •       Ephesians 2:4–6. “God … raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” •       Colossians 3:3. “You have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”   Quotes:   •       “Where we place our awareness and our focus is extremely important. So we need to be aware of the battle, but we need our spiritual focus and awareness to be on where He is, where we are with Him, and what has already been done in the promises.” •       “Has He not sent you in this hour? He could have had you born in any generation. And God chose not to do that. He brought you forth in this generation for this moment so that we would be the proclaimers of now. It is now that the Lord will move to bring forth the fulfillment of every Word that He has spoken. And that is our strength.” •       “Delivering Israel is the first step to delivering the nations and bringing all nations into the Kingdom that God is setting up and establishing.”   Takeaways:   1.    After making a strong stand in support of Israel and against anti-Semitism, we have seen an increase in spiritual warfare. This spiritual battle against Israel and against us seeks to wear us down. 2.    We need to walk and move in the Spirit to exercise God's Word and His promises as being already fulfilled, rather than praying in hope for fulfillment while dwelling in what seems to be an endless battle. 3.    The Lord has brought us to a new dwelling place, and we intercede from an awareness of where we are seated with Him in the heavenly places. We apply to Israel the fact that God hides them in the secret place of His presence. They are to dwell there, and we are to dwell with them in the protection of the Lord under the shadow of His wings. 4.    The Lord said to Gideon, “Go in this your strength to deliver Israel. … Have I not sent you?” Where does our strength come from? Our strength comes from the fact that He has sent us to be part of delivering Israel; we are to be those who stand up and proclaim to Israel what the Lord has said.

WELCOME TO CITADEL CHURCH ONLINE!We're so glad you're here! Whether you're part of the Citadel family or exploring faith, we believe this message will encourage and challenge you.Right now, we're in a series exploring God's original apostolic intent—His heart to reach the nations through His people.This week, we're looking at how the call to go isn't just for a few, but for every follower of Jesus. From God's promise to Abraham in Genesis 12, to Jesus' words in Matthew's Gospel, we see that mission flows from identity. Before Jesus sent anyone, the Father said, “This is My beloved Son.”We're called to live from that same identity and to carry the good news of the Kingdom to our city and beyond.➡ Come discover how being sent is central to who we are—and how we live that out every day.Each week, we gather to worship Jesus, open Scripture, and lean into what God is saying to us as a church. Whether you're part of the Citadel family or just checking things out, we're so glad you're here. These messages are designed to help you follow Jesus in everyday life and be part of something bigger—His Kingdom.So grab a coffee, lean in, and let's grow together.FIND OUT MORE ABOUT US:Website: www.citadelnyc.churchInstagram: @citadelnyc_church

The very nature of a fallen world is that organizations are in decline. But throughout Scripture—both Old Testament and New—God lifts up individuals and groups to be fresh pockets of greatness for His purposes. And He does this in the midst of broad decline. Join Kevin as we explore God's appointment of Christians to be a fresh pocket of greatness in their families, their workplaces, and their neighborhoods—and most importantly on behalf of His Kingdom! // Download this episode's Application & Action questions and PDF transcript at whitestone.org.

The Book of Daniel follows the Judean exiles' journey in Babylon. For us, it is a reminder that we are not home yet. We belong to a greater kingdom. So how do we live for God and His Kingdom, while in Babylon? Let's look at the book of Daniel to see. #Daniel #Daniel1 #OldTestament #Biblepodcast #Christianpodcast #Spirituallife #gospel #culture #culturalcurrents

What does it mean to actually live like Jesus? John Mark explores the third goal of apprenticeship: doing what Jesus did, showing us how Jesus invites us to participate in His Kingdom work through everyday acts of love, hospitality, and Spirit-empowered presence—and challenges us to say yes, right where we are, in our real lives.Key Scripture Passages: Matthew 4v18-25; Matthew 8v18-22; Matthew 9v9-13; Matthew 9v35-10v8; Matthew 28v16-20; 1 Peter 2v11-12; Luke 19v10; Luke 7v34-35; Romans 12.This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Sacha from Ellicott City, Maryland; Ethan from Lake Charles, Lousiana; Amanda from Pittsburg, Kansas; Derek from Cave Creek, Arizona; and Catherine from Christiansburg, Virginia. Thank you all so much! If you'd like to pay it forward and contribute toward future resources, you can learn more at practicingtheway.org/give.

It's Monday, July 21st, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Nigerian Muslims slaughtered 27 Christians including 3-year-old girl At 3:00 a.m. on July 15th, the Christian village of Bindi near Jos in the Plateau State in Nigeria, was plunged into a nightmare. Twenty-seven Christians were slaughtered, including a 3-year-old girl and nine members of Pastor Davou Musa's family, burned alive in their home, reports TruthNigeria.com. These attacks are not isolated incidents. They are part of a coordinated, radical Islamic campaign carried out by Fulani terrorists, with a mission to eradicate Christians from Nigeria and establish a Muslim caliphate. The perpetrators shouted “Allahu Akbar” as they hacked, shot, and burned families alive. One pastor shed light on what that Arabic phrase means. PASTOR: “Allah Akbar. Some will translate that as ‘God is great.' ‘ Perhaps a better translation of that Arabic phrase is, ‘Our God is greater.' This is a declaration that the demon and demons working through these people consider themselves to be greater than Jesus Christ, the God of Abraham Isaac and Jacob. “Ephesians 6:[12] says that our war is not just ‘against flesh and blood, but powers, principalities and spirits.' Practically, what this means is, when you see conflict in the seen realm, there is far greater conflict in the unseen realm. And when you hear, ‘Our God is greater,' that is a declaration of spiritual warfare from a demon against Jesus Christ, the God of Abraham Isaac and Jacob.” And where was the military? Just two miles away, but they arrived two hours late, a disturbing pattern of complicity that Christians have endured over and over again. Equipping The Persecuted is mobilizing immediately to assist survivors, providing emergency aid, trauma care, food, and security. But they urgently need your help. They are the only organization on the ground whose mission is to stop the persecution, not just clean up after it. This is not just a humanitarian crisis. It is genocide. And the world is ignoring it. Make a donation to Equipping the Persecuted through a special link in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com. Huckabee rebukes attackers of Christian church in Palestinian town U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee condemned recent attacks on a Christian village and its historic church in the West Bank, calling them “a crime against humanity and God,” reports The Christian Post. His statement came after visiting the site of the arson and ongoing harassment. Huckabee travelled Saturday to Taybeh, a Christian Palestinian town that residents say has endured a wave of assaults by Israeli settlers in recent weeks, according to The Times of Israel.  The attacks include a fire set near the ruins of the Church of St. George, which church leaders described as among the most severe incidents to date. Huckabee, a longtime Evangelical supporter of Israel, said during his visit that the desecration of religious sites represented “an act of terror” and that such actions should carry “harsh consequences.” Trump diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency after leg swelling Last Thursday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt gave the press an update on President Donald Trump's health. She told reporters that he has experienced mild swelling in his lower legs, according to a memo from Dr. Sean Barbarella, the physician to the president. LEAVITT: “The president underwent a comprehensive examination, including diagnostic vascular studies. Bilateral lower extremity veinous doppler ultrasounds were performed and revealed chronic venous insufficiency, a benign, common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70.” Leavitt also talked about photos showing some minor bruising on the back of the President's hand. She explained the bruising is a minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin, reports CBN News. Intercessors for America featured this prayer.  Pray with me now, if you would. “Father, we lift President Trump before You. We ask You would heal him and strengthen his body as he continues to serve our great nation. Amen.” Why Republicans defunded NPR and PBS The U.S. Congress voted to defund the Public Broadcasting Corporation by $1.1 billion, reports The Epoch Times. Republican Congressman Brandon Gill of Texas spoke from the floor of the House. GILL: “Tonight is the culmination of months of work from House Republicans to defund left wing state sponsored media outlets like NPR. “During that process, we got to bring in leadership from these outlets, like the CEO of NPR, Katherine Maher to testify before the House Oversight Committee she's written extensively about every single major woke buzz word that you could think of, including, ‘the ravages of late stage capitalism,' ‘structural privilege,' her own ‘cis white mobility privilege.'  Most Americans, including myself, didn't know what that meant until reading this. “She's written about how ‘I do wish Hillary, [meaning Hillary Clinton], wouldn't use the language of ‘boy and girl.' It's erasing language for non-binary people. “This is the person running the outlet the other side of the aisle wants our tax dollars to subsidize non-partisan news outlets are not run by lunatics like this. Republicans are done using the power that voters give us to fund Democrat media machines. We're playing to win now.” Chip and Joanna Gaines promote homosexuality on new TV show And finally, Christians across America are objecting to the moral compromise of self-proclaimed Christians Chip and Joanna Gaines known for their home renovation show Fixer Upper and the Magnolia Network, reports the New York Post. As producers of a new reality show “Back to the Frontier” which premiered on July 10th, they sparked backlash for casting a homosexual male couple. A source close to Chip and Joanna – who cast a faux-married couple Jason Hanna and Joe Riggs and their 10-year-old twin sons through surrogacy – says they have long affirmed perversion. Conservative Christian leaders like Reverend Franklin Graham and podcaster Allie Beth Stuckey both slammed their decision, with Graham calling the casting “very disappointing.”  Graham was clear in his stance, writing: “His Word is absolute truth. God loves us, and His design for marriage is between one man and one woman.” This prompted Chip to pour gasoline on the controversy by tweeting: “The way of ‘modern American Christian culture' is ‘Judge 1st, understand later/never.' ”  Christian author Matt Walsh replied, “Maybe you should endeavor to understand the basic moral teachings of your own alleged religion before you give lectures to other people about their lack of understanding.” And Robby Starbuck, another Christian influencer, said, “Promoting this show means cash is greater than Christianity. When you reduce it to that simple truth, it's eye opening. I hope you correct course Chip. ‘For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?'” (Matthew 16:26) The TV couple – parents to five children ranging between 20 and seven in age – are active members of the traditionally conservative Antioch Community Church of Waco, Texas. On its website, the church proclaims, “God commissions each of us to go into our spheres of influence and represent Jesus so that His Kingdom would come and His will would be done.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Monday, July 21st, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

After witnessing miracle after miracle, the crowd was divided—some believed, others resisted. In this message from John 11, we're faced with the same question: What will you do with Jesus? Whether it's fear, comfort, or control holding you back, Jesus invites you to surrender fully, live for His Kingdom, and follow Him with courage—no matter the cost.

Jesus' teaching on anger isn't part of an isolated set of rules, but a much larger and deeper vision of His Kingdom ruling and reigning in and over individual hearts.CITY CHURCH EXISTS TO HELP PEOPLE FIND THEIR WAY TO GOD FROM WHERE THEY ARE.You can find us here:www.citychurchboulder.com www.facebook.com/citychurchboulder www.instagram.com/citychurchboulder

In a chapter filled with strange beasts and heavenly visions, Daniel is shown what's really going on behind the scenes of history. Though evil may rise and chaos may reign for a time, God is still on the throne—and His Kingdom will never end.Daniel 7Andy Kvernen

The church has acknowledged Jesus as King throughout the centuries, but has often used the tools of Empire to build His Kingdom. How did Jesus set up God's Kingdom and what does that teach us?

The mystery of what lies ahead in our lives is a ubiquitous experience we all share. Until these mysteries are revealed, they are often difficult to prepare for. The same is true when it comes to how the Lord unveils His calling for our lives—we often find ourselves waiting, confused, in the dark until His revelation meets us where we are. It is through our trust in His plans, which go beyond our understanding, and through the faith to hold onto His promises, that the Father's revelation brings light to His commission for our lives, calling us into action for the glory of His Kingdom.   Scripture: Colossians 1: 24-29 Paul's Labor for the Church 24 Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ's afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church. 25 I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness— 26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord's people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. 29 To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.

Chaos. It's a word that's hard to define but easy to relate to. It can be very personal, but it can also be communal, national, or even global. It can be an event, a season, a person, an inward feeling, and so on. It's the idea that things are unordered and out of place, not the way they're supposed to be. In Luke 8:22-39, we find one continuous story where chaos has been reigning. But the King has come and is making claims across land and sea. Evil is restrained, light invades the darkness, and chaos is turned into order. Join us this Sunday as we follow Jesus on His journey across the water and look at what happens when the King claims new lands for His Kingdom. 

Jarek Berga - July 20th 2025  Jesus doesn't just build the Church—He builds us into it. In The King & His Kingdom series, we arrive at Matthew 16:13–20, where Jesus asks His disciples, “Who do you say I am?” Peter's confession of Jesus as the Christ becomes the foundation for a powerful promise: I will build my Church. This message presses us to consider the same question—and challenges us to live in light of Jesus' identity and mission. What we believe about Jesus will shape how we live, how we lead, and how we engage in the work of building His Church together. Learn more about our church: https://restoredtemecula.church Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restoredtemecula and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restoredtemecula #Matthew16 #WhoDoYouSayIAm #JesusIsTheChrist #TheKingAndHisKingdom #RestoredTemecula #ChristianSermon #IWillBuildMyChurch #BiblicalTeaching #FaithInJesus #KingdomIdentity Share this message with someone who needs to hear it! Chapters (00:00:00) - Welcome Home: Restored Church(00:00:41) - Prayer for the Day(00:01:56) - The Moment I Knew I Was In Love With Real Madrid(00:06:04) - The Gospel of Matthew(00:08:22) - Jesus at Caesarea Philippi(00:10:38) - Florentino Perez Has a Talk With His Real Madrid(00:13:36) - The Beautiful Moment of Peter(00:16:35) - Jesus Says On This Rock(00:22:00) - Jesus on His Personal Story(00:27:25) - Jesus' Story is Not About You(00:33:10) - Jesus Will Not Be Defeated(00:37:22) - Jesus: The Resurrection(00:42:07) - Jesus Prays for Broken Hearts

Pastor Derrill Corbin continues our summer series “Kingdom Come” by unpacking the final parable in Matthew 13 — the Parable of the Dragnet. Jesus reveals a sobering yet hope-filled picture of the Kingdom of Heaven: a wide net cast into the chaos of the sea, gathering people from every walk of life for a future sorting. He Derrill challenges us to see the Church as God's chosen instrument in a restless, broken world, advancing His Kingdom with purpose and urgency. This message explores three key truths: that the Kingdom is moving among the nations, the Church is the net God uses for His mission, and the coming judgment calls for bold, urgent action. Whether you're feeling spiritually dry, weary from life's chaos, or searching for purpose, this teaching is a call to renewal, courage, and Kingdom-first living.

The word pictures of Jesus give us something on which to build our lives. Sometimes His parables unravel our perceptions of God. At other points they increase our hope and renew our image of His Kingdom. He seems completely at ease with the open-ended questions, the critique of faith, and the broad imagery which His parables give. Using two everyday objects, Jesus invites us to look at the old and to new and look for meaningful ways to make a life of following Him.

Have you ever left a church service feeling like something was missing? You heard a nice message and sang some songs, but on the drive home, you're left wondering, "Is this all there is?" Today, we're tearing down the modern, passive model of church and rediscovering God's design for His Ekklesia—the called-out assembly. It was never meant to be a social club for comfort, but a spiritual armory and command center for a war we've forgotten we are fighting.Key Takeaways:The Problem with Passive Faith: Many modern church gatherings have unintentionally trained believers to be a passive audience, consuming a religious product rather than being equipped as spiritual warriors.The Battleship vs. The Cruise Ship: We must shift our perspective from the "cruise ship" model (focused on comfort and entertainment) to the "battleship" model (focused on readiness, duty, and spiritual warfare).The Early Church Model: The early church in the book of Acts met "from house to house" (Acts 2:46), not as a retreat from the world, but as a strategic base to launch into it.The Four Pillars of Spiritual Combat Training (Acts 2:42):Apostles' Doctrine: Strategic understanding of the King and His Kingdom.Fellowship (Koinonia): Forging unbreakable unit cohesion and bearing one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2).Breaking of Bread: A covenant renewal and a declaration of allegiance to Christ.The Prayers: Direct communication with headquarters, praying for boldness and strategic objectives (Acts 4:29).The Ultimate Purpose: The gathering is meant to result in sending. As in Acts 13:2, the Holy Spirit gives direct, actionable commands to the body of believers.Four Practical Marching Orders:Radically change your mindset from being served to being equipped.Seek the Acts 13 model in small, focused groups.Practice being an active contributor in every gathering.Debrief with other believers to ensure the mission translates to action.Call to Action:If this episode stirred something in your spirit, please share it! Let's get these rocks of revelation out there.Subscribe to our podcast for more episodes that challenge you to dig deeper and go higher.Visit our website, ConradRocks.net, for the original blog post and more resources.Mentioned in this Episode: Beyond the Church Walls: Rediscovering the True Purpose of Preaching**Connect With Me:**- Blog: conradrocks.net  https://www.conradrocks.net/- Social Media:  Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok  https://www.facebook.com/conrad.carriker  https://www.instagram.com/conradcarriker  https://twitter.com/MostRadicalMan  https://www.tiktok.com/@supernaturalchristianity**Free Resources:**- Try Audible Free Trial  https://amzn.to/2MT9aQW- Get Readwise Free Trial  https://readwise.io/i/conrad8- Get Remnote Free Trial  https://www.remnote.com/invite/sRJnqJujEgsGoLuc2  - Start Amazon Prime Free Trial  https://amzn.to/2Jtymte**My Work:**- Books: Open Your Eyes | Night Terror  https://amzn.to/3RJx7by  https://amzn.to/3XRFohl- Shop: Team Jesus T-Shirts  https://teespring.com/stores/team-jesus-4- Support: PayPal  https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/ConradRocks- For Creators: Get $10 off StreamYard  https://streamyard.com/pal/d/5663052624035840

In this powerful message, Kyle breaks down what it means to be a pathfinder. God has given each of us a unique set of talents and abilities; it is our job to figure out how to use them to help build His Kingdom here on Earth. Join him as we figure out how to do that together!

Ministry isn't a job title—it's a way of life. In this powerful Thursday episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael Culpepper and Natalie Ambrose unpack what it means for families to embrace ministry as both a calling and a legacy. Whether you're a family of pastors, faithful volunteers, or simply parents trying to serve Jesus through everyday moments, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to let your family's light shine brightly in the world.  Through heartfelt stories—from Rich Mullins' radical generosity to the everyday acts of preschool volunteering and neighborhood service—Rachael and Natalie illustrate that ministry can happen anywhere: around the kitchen table, in the car, at a church workday, or even in the checkout line. You'll be reminded that a Kingdom impact doesn't require a pulpit, just a posture of obedience.  You'll also hear from AHG Founder & Executive Director Emeritus Patti Garibay in a special Raising Godly Girls Minute that paints a picture of young girls ministering to hospital patients through simple, Spirit-led acts of compassion. It's a moving reminder that no one is too young—or too ordinary—to be used by God.  This episode dives into two vital heart postures every family can adopt: a willingness to let God multiply their influence and a readiness to make sacrifices for His Kingdom. Whether you're serving in a formal church role or quietly discipling your daughter at home, your life of faithfulness can ripple into eternity.  Scriptures Referenced:  Matthew 25:34–40 – “Whatever you did for the least of these…you did for Me.”  Proverbs 19:21 – “Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails.”  Acts 1:8 – “You will be My witnesses…to the ends of the earth.”  Deuteronomy 7:9 – “He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations…”  Explore more resources to raise girls rooted in Christ at raisinggodlygirls.com.   To find or start an AHG Troop in your area, visit americanheritagegirls.org.

The Holy Spirit is speaking to every believer in Jesus, and He's asking the question, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” God wants to send every one of us into His Kingdom work. When we say, “Here am I, send me,” God will use our lives for His glory.Main Points:1. I've noticed over the years that the thing that keeps many Christians from stepping out in faith and allowing God to use their lives is that they disqualify themselves. Some feel unusable because of their past, their failures, and their mistakes. Others think God is looking for people who are more spiritual or more gifted.2. Notice in the verse with Isaiah, there are no qualifications listed. God was looking for one thing: availability. The old saying is still true: God is not looking for ability. He is looking for availability. 3. God is still searching for men and women who will say yes. He's looking for individuals who are willing to be sent and to be used by the Holy Spirit.Today's Scripture Verses:Isaiah 6:8 - “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

In a world marked by outrage, division, and chaos, what does it look like to represent Jesus and His Kingdom?In this message, Pastor Ed Stetzer explores the Apostle Paul's passionate words to the church in Corinth—a church caught in cultural confusion and compromise. Through 2 Corinthians 5, we're reminded that our identity in Christ radically reshapes how we see the world and how we live within it.

Join us as we continue diving into the Fruit of the Spirit! This week, we are exploring gentleness. When we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, it produces gentleness in our hearts that enables us to have a positive influence for His Kingdom.

Daily Dose of Hope July 14, 2025   Scripture - Matthew 25:1-30   Prayer:  Lord Jesus, Help us be productive members of your Kingdom.  I know we fall short.  I know we mess up.  Call us, let us hear your voice, and we will respond.  We will say yes.  Give us the courage and boldness to be the people you called us to be.  We love you, Lord.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope on this 14th of July, 2025.  How in the world is it already the middle of July?  Our lives move fast.  Anyway, this is a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts and today, we are diving into the first half of Matthew 25.    This chapter is a series of parables, again describing different aspects of the Kingdom of God.  This first parable, though, needs to be interpreted from an eschatological perspective, meaning when Jesus returns in final victory to judge the living and the dead.  The parable of the virgins (some translations say bridesmaids) is somewhat of a continuation of the last chapter where we discuss the wise and evil servants.  There are ten virgins who are waiting for the bridegroom, but he is delayed.  Only half of the virgins bring additional oil for their lamps.  You can see where this is going.  All ten virgins fall asleep while waiting.  Then, they are awakened, learning that their man is about to arrive. Half of the virgins, the foolish ones, cannot light their lamps.  They ask their wiser sister to share their oil but that's a no-go.  The wise virgins recommend that those without oil go buy some more.  Ultimately, the wise virgins are ready when the bridegroom arrives.  When the foolish virgins return, after finding the only 24/7 oil store in the area apparently, they aren't allowed into the wedding.  They even cry out but the door is not opened.  The bridegroom denies even knowing them.  Ouch.   Every virgin fell asleep.  But only half were prepared with oil.  Thus, we can see that the focus here is on being ready, even when there is a delay.  As I dug into the scholarly discourse on this parable, it seems the most common interpretation is that having oil, being prepared, means more than simply saying yes to Jesus.  That is obviously important.  But while we wait for Jesus' return, we are called to do his work.  While waiting, we aren't supposed to be idle but to be actively working to expand the Kingdom, doing acting of love and mercy, sharing the Gospel, and pointing others to Jesus.  This is not just about getting ourselves ready but getting others ready as well.  Don't be caught without your oil.   This is followed by the parable of the bags of gold.  Other translations call this the parable of talents.  Again, it offers us another glimpse into the Kingdom of God.  But before we talk about this parable, we have to have a basic understanding of what life was like during the time of Jesus.  Remember, the people Jesus was speaking to were living in the Roman Empire, and there was a huge disparity between rich and poor. There were wealthy landowners and tax officers, there was a very small middle class, usually tradesmen of some kind, but the overwhelming majority of people were poor. Many were small tenant farmers or day laborers. Its estimated that the unemployment rate may have been as high as 70%. Even if you had a job, it was typically low-paying and you made just enough to buy food for that day. Unless you were rich, there wasn't disposable income. People were literally starving to death, not too unlike some Third World countries today.   Because of this, people who were very poor would sometimes sell themselves and their families into slavery. It's estimated that 30% of people living in the Roman Empire at that time were slaves. For some, it was the only way they might consistently have food. Life was just that hard. People would also sell themselves into slavery if they had debt. Under Roman occupation, the tax burden was incredibly oppressive and unjust, particularly for small tenant farmers. People would accumulate debt if they couldn't pay their taxes. If you had a debt and didn't pay, then you were thrown in jail. Obviously, you couldn't pay your debt in jail, nor could you work, and then your family would starve to death. So, sometimes people would sell themselves into slavery as a bondservant so their debt could get paid. Their master, or owner, would pay their debt and then they would owe them a certain number of years of service to pay off that debt.   Even though that isn't necessarily the same way we envision slavery today, the fact was, in this parable, the Master did own the servants. Now remember, he had entrusted them with some talents. A talent was actually a measure of weight rather than an amount of money. It was approximately 130 lbs. so whether or not it was a talent of silver or gold, it would have been very valuable. Even one talent of silver would have been more than an average person would have made in a year. I read several places that one talent in today's money would be roughly one million dollars. This Master had entrusted one servant with 5 talents, one with 2, and another with 1, a significant sum. The talents and the servants belonged to the Master and the crowd that Jesus was speaking to would have known that.   Okay, so what is the point of all of this?  Well, the first point is that ALL of us belong to God. He is our master. Our physical body belongs to God. All that we own-our money, our home, our possessions, they all belong to God. We may think we are in control but really we do not exist independently from God.  We may think that we own our stuff, our financial portfolio, our car, but really we are just the managers of it. Ecclesiastes 5:15, “Everyone comes naked from their mother's womb, and as everyone comes, so they depart. They take nothing from their toil that they can carry in their hands.” Another version says, “You can't take your riches with you.”   Now some of you may really struggle with this concept OR you may agree with it theoretically but it isn't a practical reality for you. In fact, right now you might be thinking, but I'm the one who earned this money. I'm the one who made this sacrifice or earned this degree or did this or that to have a nice salary, to buy a home, to purchase a nice vehicle. You might be thinking that really, “I did this on my own.” But Deut. 8:17 says, “You may say to yourself, ‘My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me,' But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth...” Despite how economically self-sufficient we think we are, God created us and it is God who gives us the ability to work, the ability to earn money, the ability to provide a living for our families...all we have is his; we are not independent from him.   Another important concept we learn from this parable is that God created us with the intention that we would use our money, our resources, and our talents and skills to produce a profit for him, a spiritual profit. Think about the parable. The master gives the first servant five talents and he doubles his money. The second servant was given two talents and he doubles his money and then the third one basically just hid his head in the sand and hoped the whole thing would go away. The master then says to him, “You wicked and lazy servant.” He had really harsh words for him.   At first glance, we might be taken aback by such hard words but think about it, the master bought these bondservants or slaves to make a profit for him. He would never have bought them if he thought they would make him lose money. Their purpose was to earn a profit for the master. Let's bring it back to us...God expects to see a profit from us. He isn't harsh. He doesn't require that we do the impossible–he has given us abundant resources–and he has called us, he requires us to use our God-given talents and resources to produce a spiritual profit for God, for His Kingdom.    One of my seminary professors used to say, “We don't serve a mush God.” Our God is not all mushy love, rainbows, and unicorns. Yes, he is loving but he still has expectations for us. There are standards, there is accountability. And this is one of those areas...he doesn't expect us just to sit and soak up all the love and wonderfulness of faith. He actually expects us to do something about it, to earn a spiritual profit. And he is serious about it.   What does this look like for us?  That, we will talk about tomorrow.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

How can a small, unassuming shepherd boy be anointed king over a nation? God only knows. The story of David's life proves exactly that, and it shows us this truth: while we may care about the outward appearances of others, God looks at our hearts. Only He knows who we truly are deep down and only He knows who He has chosen for His Kingdom.

Vin Latteri - July 13th 2025 The danger isn't just around us—it's the subtle influence that shapes us from within. As we continue our The King & His Kingdom series in Matthew 16:1–12, Jesus is met with demands for signs—and offers a warning instead: beware the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees. This message challenges us to examine what's forming our thinking. Are our expectations causing us to miss Jesus? Are we forgetting what Jesus has already done? Are we letting fear or control take the lead? Jesus calls us back to trust, to memory, and to a kingdom mindset. Learn more about our church: https://restoredtemecula.church Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restoredtemecula and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restoredtemecula #Matthew16 #BewareTheYeast #KingdomMindset #FaithOverFear #TheKingAndHisKingdom #RestoredTemecula #ChristianSermon #TrustJesus #SpiritualDiscernment #BiblicalTeaching Share this message with someone who needs to hear it! Chapters (00:00:00) - Welcome Home: Restored Church(00:00:34) - A Special Message for One of Our Clergy(00:03:07) - Jesus Thanks For His Gifts(00:04:47) - The Kingdom of Heaven vs The Kingdom of This World(00:07:55) - The Bible(00:08:14) - The Sign of the Sea(00:11:57) - The Differences Between the Pharisees and the Sadducees(00:19:26) - What Are Expectations?(00:21:58) - Favorite Trip Of All Time(00:22:31) - driving from Tokyo to Kyoto in Japan(00:26:49) - The Japanese Police Pull Over My Car(00:29:02) - Do You Have Expectations That Make You Miss Jesus?(00:31:27) - Beware of the Leaven of the Pharisees and Sad(00:36:27) - The kingdom of heaven is also inside out(00:42:23) - The Who of King Jesus(00:44:16) - Do You Have Expectations That Are causing You to Miss Jesus?(00:51:25) - "Start Living Inside Out"(00:51:52) - Listen to the Spirit and Be Obedient

In this powerful sermon, Ps. Lucas explores the parable of the sower, diving into the different types of soil that represent the conditions of our hearts. Listen now and learn how to transform your heart into good soil, ready to bear fruit for His Kingdom!

Some tend to think that God only uses perfect people . . . people with no blindspots, no failings, no shortcomings. But the more we study the Bible, the more we see how God used imperfect people to do remarkable things for His Kingdom. How can we be the kind of person God is looking for? Pastor Greg Laurie answers that today here on A NEW BEGINNING as we examine the life of a great leader of Israel who God chose personally, over and above other candidates who appeared more impressive. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some tend to think that God only uses perfect people . . . people with no blindspots, no failings, no shortcomings. But the more we study the Bible, the more we see how God used imperfect people to do remarkable things for His Kingdom. How can we be the kind of person God is looking for? Pastor Greg Laurie answers that today here on A NEW BEGINNING as we examine the life of a great leader of Israel who God chose personally, over and above other candidates who appeared more impressive. Listen on harvest.org --- Learn more and subscribe to Harvest updates at harvest.org A New Beginning is the daily half-hour program hosted by Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Southern California. For over 30 years, Pastor Greg and Harvest Ministries have endeavored to know God and make Him known through media and large-scale evangelism. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.