Podcasts about his spirit

It has been quite a week. My heart has been heavy with sadness, shock, grief, anger, confusion—and also with a resolve. Once again, tragedy has shaken our nation and reminded us of the brokenness in our culture. As Psalm 120 says, “In my distress I cried to the Lord, and He heard me… I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war.”In moments like this, the temptation is to turn inward—to blame, to divide, to harden our hearts. But as followers of Jesus, our first response is to turn upward. This is a moment for prayer. It's a time to seek God's presence, to humble ourselves, and to remember that our help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 121:1–2).So how do we respond? We pray. We care for those around us. We stay tethered to a Kingdom that is above politics, culture, and rhetoric—a Kingdom that carries peace in the storm and hope for the future. We choose humility and boldness, and we let joy be our strength.Prayer Focus This Week:Pray for our nation and for God to pour out His Spirit.Pray for eyes, ears, and hearts to awaken to truth.Pray for comfort for those who mourn and grieve.Pray that despair will lift and hope will fill hearts.Pray for an awakening in the Church, full of the Spirit and boldness.Pray for God-given creativity and solutions to bring healing.Pray for this to be a true turning to God moment across our land.Let's be a people who grieve without it turning into bitterness and hate, who hold hope and who believe that unity grows where pride and fear die.-Eric J.For more info, you can go to our website, check us out on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. If you would like to support STUDIO financially, you can do so here.Have a great week!

There is no place on Earth that God is not working. Even in authoritarian regimes that make following Christ illegal, He still moves. Iran is one of those countries. While we hear about Iran pretty regularly in the news, we don't typically hear about what God is doing through His Spirit and in His Church there. Today we're joined by the CEO of Transform Iran, Lana Silk. She talks with Brandon Stiver about the geopolitics of the country, what it was like for her growing up in Iran and most importantly, how the gospel is spreading among communities there. Podcast Sponsors Join more than 2,000 ministry leaders at CAFO2025 in Houston, Texas from October 1-3, hosted by the Christian Alliance for Orphans. Register for CAFO2025 in Houston Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25' Take the Free Core Elements Self-Assessment Resources and Links from the show Transform Iran Online Kairos AI Chatbot Support the Show Through Venmo - @canopyintl Conversation Notes The brainwashing of students in Iran The theology component of Jesus in Islam - differences and shared reverence Where the Koran came from in the views of a Muslim Understanding the various viewpoints that different Muslims might hold Modern history of Iran and the geopolitical reality we live in Is Iran exporting Shiite Islam throughout the world? The Christian experience in Iran (including its illegality) Lana's own family background and how the Gospel came to her family The spreading of the underground church in Iran The hybrid model of Transform Iran's ministry Stories of how people have found Jesus in Iran A new AI tool that can counsel and pray for Iranian Christians Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

In 1 Samuel 10, Saul is anointed as Israel's first king, but he's not sent out on his own. God confirms the call, empowers him with signs, and transforms his heart by the Spirit. When God calls, He also equips. Trust His hand on your life, yield to His Spirit, and walk boldly in the mission He's given you.

In this episode, 'the River of Life,' Derek explores the profound biblical revelation that believers are the eternal Temple of God, designed to be filled with His presence and glory. Redeemed man in Christ is designed to be the eternal Temple of the Living God, indwelt by Him and shining forth His glory. Thus, redeemed man is the ultimate, eternal Temple of God (1Corinthians 3:16-17, 6:19-20, 12:12, 2Cor 6:16, Ephesians 2:21-22, Rev 21:22-26). TEMPLES are designed to be dwelling places of God, and He introduced TEMPLES to reveal His ULTIMATE PURPOSE for mankind. He created MAN to be His TEMPLE, and now His plan is to redeem us, so that we might be the DWELLING PLACE of God, that God would dwell with us and IN US forever! This is God's ultimate purpose for man - that God might dwell in us and be glorified through us. All Temples of God are a blueprint of His ultimate Temple (Man), and so they describe our nature, design, purpose and operation - how God made us to function. The first clear design feature of God's Temples is that they are all tripartite in structure. That is, they are comprised of 3 distinct parts, with 3 different levels of holiness, sometimes represented by different heights: (1) The HOLY of HOLIES, where God is enthroned, (2) the HOLY PLACE, and (3) the OUTER COURT. Likewise man is (1) SPIRIT, (2) SOUL & (3) BODY (1Thessalonians 5:23). The greatest Presence of God is in the Holy of Holies, where He is enthroned as King, and His Presence (Glory) radiates like light shining forth from the Holiest Place. One picture of this FLOW of LIFE is that His SPIRIT of GRACE flows down like RIVERS from the highest place (the Holy of Holies or Throne Room) to water the lower places. We see this RIVER of LIFE in the Heavenly Temple (Rev 22:1-2), in Eden (Genesis 2:10) and in the Millennial Temple (Joel 3:18, Zechariah 14:8-9, Ezekiel 47). Jesus was a fully functioning Temple of God, who came to make us into Temples of God, with the Holy Spirit dwelling in our born again spirit (John 14:16-17, Romans 5:5, John 4:10,14), and flowing out through our heart as rivers of living water (John 7:37-39). So, now in Christ, God, the Holy Spirit lives within our reborn spirit (where Christ is enthroned), from where He wants to flow down as rivers of life to fill our souls with His light and life, and then flow out through our bodies to the world, as we obey Him, by speaking His words and doing His works. We are Temples of the Living God, who wants to fill and empower us and be glorified through us. As we let His River of life and grace flow down from our high place (our spirit) through our soul, as we submit to Him and obey Him, the trees in the garden of our soul (our thoughts and emotions) will continually flourish and grow and be fruitful to the glory of God.

A Prayer to Share Joy Joy is contagious. Today's prayer written by Nicolet Bell reminds us that the true source of lasting joy is Jesus. When we root our joy in Him, our relationships become spaces where His Spirit overflows, bringing light and gladness to those around us. Reference: Philippians 4:4 Prayer: Father, today we rejoice in you. Help us to seek you as the fountain of joy in our lives. Help us to show up in our relationships with joy from your presence, not seeking our families to give us joy or fulfillment. May our children witness your joy in us and desire to be in relationship with you. In Jesus’ name, Amen. LINKS:How to Pray God's Word For Your Children Guide Follow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms Get today's devotion and prayer in written form to keep for future use! Support the ministry with your $5 monthly gift through Patreon. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do we feed Christ's sheep practically? We minister from overflow. Through prayer, Scripture, example, and love, we point others to the true Shepherd. Ministry begins at home and flows outward with humility.This four-part series draws us deep into the heart of our Shepherd, Jesus Christ, who calls us not only to follow Him, but to love Him above all else—and in that love, to feed His sheep. From Peter's restoration on the Galilean shore to our daily walk in homes, churches, and workplaces, we are invited to dine with Christ so that we may nourish others. Rooted in His Word and led by His Spirit, our lives become streams of comfort, truth, and encouragement to a world of wandering sheep. Join Gabe and Nate as they explore Christ's Command to, “Feed my sheep.”Want to go deeper in studying this command of Christ? Download a free study guide at https://homediscipleship.comStudy guide includes: Scriptures referenced in podcastReview of Old Testament contextGuide for Scripture meditationQuestions for application and prayerFor more information, visit us at https://homediscipleship.comFind us on Facebook and Instagram @homediscipleshiphttps://www.facebook.com/homediscipleshipnetworkhttps://instagram.com/commandsofchristpodcast

Samson appeared to be a hero, but his story reveals a man marked by weakness, pride, and failure. Yet God still worked through him to accomplish His purposes. The reminder for us is clear: God does not require perfection to use us—He works through imperfect people by the power of His Spirit. Jesus is the true Hero, and our role is to trust and follow Him.Our regular service is at 10am on Sundays. We are located at 304 E. Austin Ave in Hutto, TX. Can't make it in person? You are welcome to join us live on Facebook or YouTube. If you need prayer or you just need someone to talk to please reach out to us at prayer@huttocommunitychurch.org.HCC Website - HCC Facebook - HCC YouTube

Today we dug into what it really means to grow spiritually. Transformation is not about trying harder or checking boxes—it's about becoming like Jesus for the sake of others. Scripture tells us that this change is God's work in us: “we are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit” (2 Corinthians 3:18). But we're not passive spectators. Romans 12 reminds us not to conform to the pattern of this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Our role is to make ourselves available to God, open to His Spirit, and intentional in shaping what fills our minds and hearts. The good news? Transformation isn't up to our power, but it is part of our journey.

On Sunday, Pastor Mike shared how he was asking a simple question: “Lord, how do I respond as a pastor to everything happening right now?” What followed was a clear word from the Lord that led him to Exodus 17—a moment where God's people were under pressure, under attack, and spiritually dry. In that passage, Moses lifted his hands toward heaven as the battle raged, and victory came when hands were lifted—not in striving, but in surrender. From that passage, Mike heard God say, “The time for striking rocks is over. The time for touching thrones has begun.” This message is an invitation to shift our posture. To stop reacting and start abiding. To respond not with outrage, but with trust. And to step into a rhythm of prayer that brings renewal, unity, and life. Below is a prayer guide you can use as you respond this week:Prayer Guide:1. Praise: Honoring God's Faithfulness and Outpouring of His SpiritHeavenly Father, we lift our hands to You in awe and gratitude. You are faithful, and Your Spirit continues to move in our lives and in our generation. We praise You for Your presence, Your provision, and Your power that sustains us.Pray for:• Thank God for His faithfulness in every season, acknowledging that nothing in heaven or earth can thwart His plans.• Praise God for the outpouring of His Spirit, awakening hearts to new hunger and deeper intimacy with Him.• Declare God's victory over every Amalek attack, trusting His authority to protect, restore, and advance His Kingdom.• Celebrate the ways God has revealed Himself in past battles, remembering His power and mercy.• Invite God's presence to fill every room, heart, and community, allowing His life to flow freely.2. Confession: Surrendering Striving, Distrust, and ConflictLord, we confess the times we have not abided in You, striving in our own strength, doubting Your provision, and wrestling with anger or contention toward others. We recognize where we have partnered with thoughts that oppose Your will and disrupt Your peace.Pray for:• Confess personal striving instead of resting in God's timing and authority.• Confess distrust, doubt, or anxiety that limits our faith and hinders intimacy with You.• Ask for forgiveness for anger, quarreling, or holding bitterness toward others.• Renounce any agreements with pride, ego, or grumbling.• Pray for healing, humility, and restored alignment with God, so we walk fully in His presence and purpose.3. Intercession: Lifted Hands for Each Other and Our Broken WorldFather, we lift our hands in intercession, covering one another's vulnerabilities, lifting the burdens of our families, communities, and the world. We declare Your Kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.Pray for:• Pray for those around you, asking God to meet their deepest needs and protect their hearts.• Pray for comfort and hope in our relationships, families, communities, and country.• Ask God to pour out His presence in communities, awakening hunger for His presence and truth.• Pray for the defeat of the Amalek spirit and every force that seeks to steal joy, kill hope, or destroy destiny.• Declare healing, restoration, and unity, trusting God's authority and power to transform brokenness into new life.

 “RENEW: The Best Version of You” By Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min. Theme: The sermon centers on the biblical principle of renewal—God's continual work of making believers into the best version of themselves through inward transformation, endurance through shaking, and daily spiritual renewal. Introduction Renewal is necessary for personal growth, relationships, and the world at large. Everyone has “different versions” of themselves across stages of life. God desires to bring out the best versionthrough His Spirit. Key text: 2 Corinthians 4:16 – “Though our outward man perishes, the inward man is renewed day by day.” Renewal Illustrated Renewal parallels physical projects: tearing out old concrete, replacing screens, removing flags. Renewal often requires breaking up and removing old things before the new can be established. Biblical principle: You cannot put new wine into old wineskins (Matt. 9:17).   Renewal in the Midst of Shaking Text: Hebrews 12:26–29 – God shakes what is man-made so that what is God-made may remain. Shaking exposes what is unstable or superficial. Believers rooted in God endure shaking because they are God-made, not man-made. Renewal involves cost, disruption, and difficulty, like construction work—yet produces lasting change. Renewal Defined Renewal = being made new, renovated, refreshed continuously. It is God's work, not human self-effort. Believers cooperate with God by trusting and yielding. Renewal is daily, regardless of circumstances: “Don't ask, How do I feel? Ask, What do I believe?”   Five Keys to Renewal (R.E.N.E.W.) R – Rest and Repent Rest = entering God's finished work (Hebrews 4:10). Repent = change your mind and position yourself to receive from God (Acts 3:19). Rest includes physical rest—sleep is God-given and essential. E – Experience Fullness In God's presence is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11). Joy is deeper than happiness—an inward assurance of being in God's will. Believers receive fullness from Christ (John 1:16). N – Never Cease Prayer Prayer sustains renewal. “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:16-18). Thanksgiving and prayer cultivate resilience in every circumstance. E – Endure (Cast Cares on the Lord) Endure hardship as a soldier (2 Tim. 2:3). Do not become entangled with the world's cares. Cast cares on God because He cares for you (1 Peter 5:6-7). W – Wait on Exchange of Strength Those who wait on the Lord renew their strength (Isaiah 40:30-31). Waiting = lingering in God's presence, binding your life to Him. Renewal involves exchange—our weakness for God's strength, our struggles for His victory. Practical Insights Renewal is ongoing, disruptive, sometimes painful—but it leads to vitality, clarity, and endurance. Renewal impacts spirit, soul, and body. Even physical practices like rest and good sleep are part of God's care. God uses challenges and even sorrow to lead us toward repentance and transformation. Conclusion Renewal helps us become the best version of ourselves—rested, filled with joy, prayerful, enduring, and strong in the Lord. Renewal is God's work, requiring our cooperation, humility, and willingness to embrace the process—even when it involves shaking or breaking. Final encouragement: Trust God's renewing work daily. Don't measure by feelings—live by faith.

God has sealed us with His Spirit, the Arrabon, a part payment certifying us as authentically His, until we receive our full inheritance. He has granted both authority and power as the equipment for service, and it is important to both know and understand how to use it. This includes wielding the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, by which we will make it through.VF-2100 Ephesians 1:13-14 Watch, Listen and Learn 24x7 at PastorMelissaScott.com Pastor Melissa Scott teaches from Faith Center in Glendale. Call 1-800-338-3030 24x7 to leave a message for Pastor Scott. You may make reservations to attend a live service, leave a prayer request or make a commitment. Pastor Scott appreciates messages and reads them often during live broadcasts. Follow @Pastor_Scott on Twitter and visit her official Facebook page @Pastor.M.Scott. Download Pastor Scott's "Understand the Bible" app for iPhone, iPad and iPod at the Apple App Store and for Android devices in the Google Store. Pastor Scott can also be seen 24x7 on Roku and Amazon Fire on the "Understand the Bible?" channel. ©2025 Pastor Melissa Scott, Ph.D., All Rights Reserved

Joel's preaching concerning the LORD's outpouring of His Spirit finds fulfillment on the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2, when Peter uses this section as his sermon text. The LORD gives His Holy Spirit to draw people to faith in the only Savior, Jesus Christ, who has suffered under the wrath of God on the Day of the LORD in our place. By the outpouring of the Spirit, sinners are brought to call upon the name of the LORD for salvation, and as baptized believers, they too begin to speak the Word of God so that more will hear and believe in Jesus for salvation.  Rev. Jacob Dandy, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Atchison, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joel 2:28-32. To learn more about Trinity Lutheran, visit trinityatchison.org. “Majoring in the Minors” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Hosea, Joel, Jonah, Micah, and Nahum. Although the books of these prophets are shorter, the Word of God they preached was important in the years leading up to the coming of the Christ, and that Word remains important for the Church today. Just as we still need to listen to their call to repentance over our idolatry, so we still need to heed their call to trust in the Savior, Jesus.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

We reflected on how true strength comes not from our own ability but from God's healing power flowing through us when we acknowledge our weakness. Through scripture, personal testimonies, and discussion, we explored how pain and suffering are not wasted but are used by God to deepen our dependence on Him, grow us spiritually, and draw us into closer fellowship with Christ. We were reminded that God's love and power are unchanging, that fear is overcome by His Spirit of power and love, and that even in suffering, His presence gives healing and rest.Themes:God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7)Eternal healing in Christ, with weakness as the place where His power is made perfect (2 Corinthians 12:9)Christ's humanity and crucifixion made God's unchanging power and love accessible to usFear arises from pride and rejection of God's love, while submission brings peaceSpiritual healing is essential; physical healing is not always God's plan (1 Thessalonians 5:23; 3 John 2)Pain and suffering serve a divine purpose, as seen in Job and Paul's livesWeakness and trials prepare believers for eternal glory (Revelation 21:4; 2 Timothy 2:12)God's presence in suffering brings deeper intimacy, teaching us to trust His gracePrayer and fellowship strengthen our understanding of God's healing powerScripture References:2 Timothy 1:7; 2 Corinthians 12:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; 3 John 2; Job; Revelation 21:4; 2 Timothy 2:12; Hebrews 4:16

God made us perfectly and with love—but sin left us unable to please Him. Just like a cake ruined by poison can't simply be fixed, our lives can't just be edited or improved. Through Jesus, we are given a brand-new start—a spiritual rebirth where His Spirit rules over every part of us. In this kickoff message of our new series, "You Must Be Born Again", Pastor Alvin III teaches us why Jesus said we must be born again and what that truly means for our lives.  This message lays the foundation for the life God intended: not just knowing Jesus as Savior, but surrendering to Him as Lord. Scripture references: John 3:1–8 Hebrews 11:6

Whenever God does anything big, He does it through His Spirit. For example, when God created the Heavens and the Earth, He did so through the power of His Spirit. If the Spirit is capable of doing such huge things, just imagine what the Spirit can do in our lives—if we let Him.In this message, Jill encourages each of us to examine our own life and see the fruit of the Spirit. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1141/29

Jetson reminds us that God has already placed His Spirit within us, and what we carry is meant to overflow into generosity, ownership, and blessing others.These are the scriptures referenced: Matthew 13:10-16Ephesians 1:13-14To stay connected and to support this ministry click here:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/hopeandanchorchurch?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

This week, I'm sitting down to answer questions from The Village fam about faith and friendships! I'm answering everything from learning how to love people well when they're not walking with God, to discerning if it's really the Lord speaking, or just our emotions.This conversation is honest, vulnerable, and rooted in scripture. We also talk about what it means to steward godly friendships through prayer, and why following Jesus doesn't exempt us from suffering, but instead gives us hope in the middle of it.If you've ever struggled with navigating relationships, or holding on to faith through trials, this episode is for you. Share this with a friend who needs the reminder that God's love is steady, His Spirit still speaks, and His presence is with us, even in the hardest seasons.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Life today is overflowing with constant noise and endless responsibilities — from work demands to family schedules, to the never-ending stream of emails and notifications. It’s easy to feel stretched too thin, constantly pulled in competing directions. In today's devotional and prayer, Heidi Vegh reminds us that the key to balance isn’t found in managing every detail perfectly, but in surrendering our days to God. Matthew 6:33 calls us to seek first His Kingdom — to make God our priority before anything else. When we start our mornings with Him, we allow His Spirit to order our steps, giving us peace in the middle of chaos. Balance doesn’t mean doing everything; it means doing the right things, with God’s guidance. Sometimes His answer may be to rest instead of striving, to connect with a friend instead of checking one more task off the list. When we make room for holy interruptions, we find the kind of balance our souls truly crave. Today's Bible Reading: “But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His Kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right attitude and character of God), and all these things will be given to you also.” – Matthew 6:33 (AMP) Key Takeaways Balance begins with priorities — seeking God first each day. Surrendering control allows God to redirect our days according to His will. The Holy Spirit provides gentle nudges and guidance when we feel overwhelmed. True balance comes not from doing it all, but from living aligned with God’s purposes. Let’s Pray Lord, life is busy and overwhelming, and I need balance. I surrender my plans, to-do lists, and ideals into Your hands. Guide me with Your Spirit, reminding me to start each day with You. Show me what to lay down, what to pick up, and how to create space for rest. Thank You for caring about every detail of my life and for promising to order my steps when I seek You first. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Calls to Action Start your morning tomorrow with a Scripture reading and prayer before touching your phone. Ask God throughout the day: “What’s the next right thing?” and trust His nudge. Subscribe to Your Daily Prayer and share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement to slow down and seek God first. Resources & Mentions 10 Ways to Find Balance in a Busy Life – Crosswalk.com 5 Tips for Creating Quiet Time with God in a Noisy World – Crosswalk.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God's heart beats for the harvest, both in the world and right here in our city. In Matthew 9, Jesus saw the crowds and was moved with compassion, and He calls us to carry that same heart. Compassion is more than a feeling; it leads us to action and often opens the door for the miraculous. The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Will we be the ones who pray, who go, and who carry God's heart into the field? This is an invitation to let God change our hearts so we can see His Spirit move in power. Recorded at Hope Church in Springfield, MO.

The Supernatural Advantage | God Squad SeriesRelationships are tough—and they're not getting easier. Many of us feel overwhelmed, unsure of what to do, and even alone in the struggles we face. But what if God isn't just watching our relationships from a distance—what if He's in them?In this message, The Supernatural Advantage, Pastor CJ Witkoe shares how God equips us with spiritual gifts to strengthen and heal our relationships. From wisdom and faith to healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, tongues, and more—these gifts are not reserved for a few, but given “to each of us… so we can help each other” (1 Corinthians 12:7 NLT).Discover how the Holy Spirit provides a supernatural advantage in everyday life and how you can begin to walk in these gifts to build healthier, stronger, and God-centered connections.

Hopefully every worship leader and pastor wants to lead in the power of the Holy Spirit. Hearing His voice and knowing that He is leading in us and through us is the only way we want to lead. But…are you leading that way? And what is the pattern of life that can lead to you finally experiencing this power you desire. In this episode, Austin sits down again with Joe Penovich as they discuss a process of knowing God and praying in His Spirit that will empower us to live and lead from a place of strength. Spoiler alert…it's not easy…but It's worth it!Watch the VIDEO Podcast HEREDid you enjoy this episode? Do us a favor and share with worship leaders & pastors around you! Also, leave a rating and review so it makes it easier for other worship leaders to find us! Follow Us on Facebook and Instagram for more content on worship leading every week. The Worship Catalyst Podcast is produced by Worship Catalyst. A non-profit ministry that serves churches by training, mentoring and coaching worship leaders and their teams. For more information about Worship Catalyst or for more resources to help you become a better worship leader, visit worshipcatalyst.com.

Faith for the Coming Wilderness (2) (audio) David Eells – 9/7/25 We need to understand that the natural has to bow to the spiritual; it's not the natural that runs this world. Presidents think they run this world, but the truth is God runs this world. This world bows to Him. And nothing can stop a person who believes in the living God and believes in His promises! We have an Almighty God Who loves us. He's made these promises and He's not a liar (Num.23:19). He will take care of us. He will provide for our needs. I know there is a big emphasis on getting prepared because many people realize that we are headed for trouble and lack, including some of the churches out there. Those churches are preparing their people, but they're doing it mostly in the natural, in the flesh. And, of course, those churches that teach and believe that they're going to fly away are not getting prepared for anything, but they're going to have a sudden shock. The Church is going through the wilderness, just like the Israelites did in type and shadow. (Ecc.1:9) That which hath been is that which shall be; and that which hath been done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun. There is nothing in the Bible about the Church escaping that wilderness. The best thing you can do is to be like Moses and like Jesus, and go through it first. Then, when you get out there with the Israelites, it won't be a problem. You've already been there, and you'll be calm and peaceful, since you know that God is faithful. Most of the church leaders are men who have never been through the wilderness, and they are teaching a lot of fear because they are fearful themselves. Those men whom God chose to bring His people through the wilderness had already been there themselves. Like Jesus, like Moses, they weren't afraid of anything. The church leaders in our day are like the Pharisees and the Sadducees, who have never been in the wilderness and don't know how to go there. They are teaching people to store up their treasures on the earth. What did Jesus say about storing up treasures on the earth? (Mat.6:19) Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon the earth, where moth and rust consume, and where thieves break through and steal: (20) but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth consume, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: (21) for where thy treasure is, there will thy heart be also. Jesus said, “Don't do it!” So, who are you going to obey? What happens if you don't store up provision for yourself and you go into a wilderness? I'll tell you what happens: you are suddenly being thrust into a place of weakness because of your obedience to the Word! Now you won't be able to save yourself, but God will never ever fail you. If you put your faith in Him, your weakness is a place of power to God. (2Co.12:9) … For my power is made perfect in weakness.... You see, “Man's extremity is God's opportunity” (English Clergyman John Flavel, 1627-1691). God waits until you give up trying to save yourself before His power is made manifest. Israel always seemed to be in the minority when they won a war, and if they weren't, God would make sure they were in the minority, as with Gideon's army. (Jdg.7:2) And the Lord said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hand, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me. (3) Now therefore proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, Whosoever is fearful and trembling, let him return and depart from mount Gilead. And there returned of the people twenty and two thousand; and there remained ten thousand. I.e., Get the unbelief out of the way. (4) And the Lord said unto Gideon, The people are yet too many; bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for thee there: and it shall be, that of whom I say unto thee, This shall go with thee, the same shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto thee, This shall not go with thee, the same shall not go. (5) So he brought down the people unto the water: and the Lord said unto Gideon, Every one that lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog lappeth, him shalt thou set by himself; likewise every one that boweth down upon his knees to drink. (6) And the number of them that lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, was three hundred men: but all the rest of the people bowed down upon their knees to drink water. (7) And the Lord said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men that lapped will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into thy hand ... Its not numbers but faith that is needed. (16) And he divided the three hundred men into three companies, and he put into the hands of all of them trumpets, and empty pitchers, with torches within the pitchers ... (19) So Gideon, and the hundred men that were with him, came unto the outermost part of the camp in the beginning of the middle watch, when they had but newly set the watch: and they blew the trumpets, and brake in pieces the pitchers that were in their hands. (20) And the three companies blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers, and held the torches in their left hands, and the trumpets in their right hands wherewith to blow; and they cried, The sword of the Lord and of Gideon. (21) And they stood every man in his place round about the camp; and all the host ran; and they shouted, and put them to flight.  Now that's the weakness and faith needed. (22) And they blew the three hundred trumpets, and the Lord set every man's sword against his fellow, and against all the host; and the host fled as far as Beth-shittah toward Zererah, as far as the border of Abel-meholah, by Tabbath. God said, “You have too many men. You'll brag on what you've done.” He whittled them down to 300 and sent them out with trumpets, not swords. Trumpets! The Hebrew word for “breath” is ruwach, and it is also translated “spirit,” so a trumpet represents making the Spirit's Word audible. Well, they blew those trumpets and the enemy stumbled all over each other and killed one another. Gideon probably didn't even need 300 men. God's awesome! He wants to prove to us His mighty power in our weakness, and that's why He says, “Don't store up your treasures on earth. You just go out there and I'll take care of you.” When the Israelites went into the wilderness, they took everything they could with them, including the gold and silver and precious jewels that they plundered from the Egyptians (Exo.12:31-39), but then they made a golden calf out of it, an idol (Exo.32:1-5). They thought it would save them. That's what a lot of apostates are teaching today. Do you think your gold and silver will save you in the days to come? No, the Israelites started running out of their own supply in only three days (Exo.15:22). Their golden calf was just an idol, which God proved wasn't going to save them. (Exo.32:19) And it came to pass, as soon as he came nigh unto the camp, that he saw the calf and the dancing: and Moses' anger waxed hot, and he cast the tables out of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount. (20) And he took the calf which they had made, and burnt it with fire, and ground it to powder, and strewed it upon the water, and made the children of Israel drink of it. You ask me, “David, if we don't store up our treasures on earth, how do we store them up in Heaven?” Well, the Bible is very plain about that: (Luk.12:15) And he said unto them, Take heed, and keep yourselves from all covetousness (or “desiring more”): for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. (16) And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: (17) and he reasoned within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have not where to bestow my fruits? He meant upon himself. (18) And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my grain and my goods. (19) And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, be merry. In other words, if you have all of this supply, you are trusting in it; you are resting in it. You have peace because of what you've stored up, instead of trusting in God. God doesn't want that. He doesn't want idols. (20) But God said unto him, Thou foolish one, this night is thy soul required of thee; and the things which thou hast prepared, whose shall they be? (21) So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God. Now I've had some people say, “Well, David, storing up food is not treasure.” I beg your pardon? In verse 18, it reads, “and there will I bestow all my grain and my goods.” God called food “treasure.” What God wants of us is our weakness and faith. He's going to bring us to a place where there will be no visible, worldly means of support, but He's Almighty God, and believers will have no difficulty whatsoever in the place where He is bringing them. He's doing this to prove to them how great He is and how great His provision is. (22) And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Be not anxious for [your] life, what ye shall eat; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. We are to be anxious for nothing. Paul said, (Php.4:6) In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Don't worry about what you are going to need in the wilderness, because God is going to be there when you get there. (Luk.12:23) For the life is more than the food, and the body than the raiment. (24) Consider the ravens, that they sow not, neither reap (In a wilderness, you may not even have anything to sow or you may have 3 mites; if so sow it.); which have no store-chamber nor barn; and God feedeth them: of how much more value are ye than the birds! Listen, if God feeds the birds and they don't store up, won't He do it for you? Yes, He will. (25) And which of you by being anxious can add a cubit unto the measure of his life? (26) If then ye are not able to do even that which is least, why are ye anxious concerning the rest? Isn't that awesome? We really can't save ourselves and He's trying to convince us of that. He's trying to convince us to put our trust in God Almighty. (27) Consider the lilies, how they grow: they toil not, neither do they spin; yet I say unto you, Even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. The Israelites were well-dressed in their wilderness (Deu.8:4; 29:5; Neh.9:21). (28) But if God doth so clothe the grass in the field, which to-day is, and to-morrow is cast into the oven; how much more [shall he clothe] you, O ye of little faith? Yes, He will take care of you. He will feed you. He will clothe you. (29) And seek not ye what ye shall eat, and what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. An unbeliever, a doubter, is somebody who's worried about these things. (30) For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: but your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. That's all you need. God knows about it, and He will take care of you. (31) Yet seek ye his kingdom, and these things shall be added unto you. He's telling us to seek first His Kingdom. (Mat.6:33) But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. If you do that, then everything you need will be given to you. That is the truth and I have proven it! Many years ago, I had a ministry and I worked. I told the Lord, “Lord, I don't have time to work anymore. I'm asking You to make a way.” He did and He's provided ever since. (Luk.12:32) Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. (33) Sell that which ye have, and give alms.... He didn't say to store it up for a rainy day. I learned that if you store up something for a rainy day, the rainy day always comes. But if you don't have it stored up, that rainy day never comes, or if it does, God has to do a miracle because He is contracted with you to be your supplier in all things. (Php.4:19) And my God shall supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. He's your Jehovah-jireh, your provider. So it really doesn't make any difference whether a rainy day comes or not. (Luk.12:33) Sell that which ye have, and give alms; make for yourselves purses which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not.... If you have anything extra, do what they did on the day of Pentecost and shortly thereafter: (Act.4:34) For neither was there among them any that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, (35) and laid them at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto each, according as any one had need. (2Co.8:13) For I say not this that others may be eased and ye distressed; (14) but by equality: your abundance being a supply at this present time for their want, that their abundance also may become a supply for your want; that there may be equality. Anything extra was used to meet the needs of the rest of the body so that there would be equality. That's what He preached in the New Testament. He said it was like the Israelites who gathered the manna. (15) As it is written, He that gathered much had nothing over; and he that gathered little had no lack. Some gathered more than they needed, some gathered less, and whoever had extra met the needs of those who didn't. It was equality. God loves that! (Luk.12:33) Sell that which ye have, and give alms; make for yourselves purses which wax not old (Meaning you're not storing it up or keeping it for a long time.), a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief draweth near, neither moth destroyeth. Give alms. Meet the needs of people around you. That's what He calls “a treasure in the heavens that faileth not.” Any treasure you store up on earth is going to fail. The world is going to plunder you, and if not the world, the devil will plunder you by the curse, but you're going to be plundered. Let me tell you how not to get plundered: Give! Meet the needs of the brethren around you. Give and then it will be coming the other way because (Luk.6:38) Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, shall they give into your bosom. For with what measure ye mete it shall be measured to you again. That's how it works. You can make a living by giving. It works. (Luk.12:34) For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Some people tell me, “It's okay to have it. Just don't set your heart on it.” That's not what Jesus said. He said, if you have it, your heart will be on it. “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” If you store up on this earth, you are disobeying Jesus. It's only good for spending, and then you learn to walk by faith. (Jas.2:5) Hearken, my beloved brethren; did not God choose them that are poor as to the world to be rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he promised to them that love him? God chose those who are the poor of the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the Kingdom. A person who is rich in faith will never go without. God always provides for them. How do you store up your treasures in Heaven? You do that by giving alms, by making yourselves purses that wax not old, by meeting the needs of the brethren. You give and it will be given unto you. When you get out in that wilderness, don't you want to have something stored up in the Bank of Heaven? He said, “A treasure in the heavens that faileth not.” If you pack food out there into that wilderness, it will fail you. If you pack gold out into that wilderness, the world will plunder you. But if you store it up by giving, God said He will give unto you. The way of God is to give what you have, and then God will multiply it back. It's happened to me many, many times that when I did not have enough money to take care of my needs, I would just take what I had and give it. And God has never failed me, not once. I walked by faith and raised five children, and God always met our needs. Now, one time we were forced into a fast as a trial of our faith, and that's the only time we were ever put in that position, but we got in a position many times where God literally multiplied food, multiplied money, and even multiplied gas in our tank. We got to see wondrous miracles from God, and we're still seeing them today! Now I'm not asking for anything; I'm just sharing with you how to get prepared for what's coming. And we give: nobody charges anybody for anything from our ministry. The volunteers who supply the materials on our site are people of faith. They supply those materials as their ministry, and other people bless those volunteers because the volunteers are giving. God sees to it that His Word is fulfilled. (Jer.1:12) Then said the Lord unto me, Thou hast well seen: for I watch over my word to perform it. He stands behind His Word, and He will never fail you. He cannot fail. One thing I've learned about God is that He can do everything but fail. He will supply your every need according to His riches in glory. Don't fear the wilderness. God designed and ordained this wilderness. He's even ordained the Beast that's going to cause this wilderness. He's ordained Pharaoh's army to get behind God's people and force them out there into that wilderness. God is not going to fail you. Learn to walk by faith because the wilderness will be nothing for the people who walk by faith. In fact it can be joyful. But for those who are fearful and murmur and complain and walk by sight, they are not going to make it through (Num.11:1; 1Co.10:10, etc.). God is doing all this because He's raising up believers. (Heb.10:38) But my righteous one shall live by faith: And if he shrink back, my soul hath no pleasure in him. Listen, we are children of the last Adam, Jesus Christ. We are a new-creation man, meant to live above this world, meant to walk in His ways and His steps, and that includes going into the “wilderness” as He did. (Mat.4:1) Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. (2) And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he afterward hungered. (3) And the tempter came and said unto him, If thou art the Son of God, command that these stones become bread. (4) But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. (5) Then the devil taketh him into the holy city; and he set him on the pinnacle of the temple, (6) and saith unto him, If thou art the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and, On their hands they shall bear thee up, Lest haply thou dash thy foot against a stone. (7) Jesus said unto him, Again it is written, Thou shalt not make trial of the Lord thy God. (8) Again, the devil taketh him unto an exceeding high mountain, and showeth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; (9) and he said unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. (10) Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. (11) Then the devil leaveth him; and behold, angels came and ministered unto him. Jesus went through a 40-day wilderness trial before He overcame and then He brought God's people in His day through their wilderness. In our day, those who are in the First-fruits corporate body each go through their individual wilderness first. There, they learn to walk in the principles of the Kingdom, which is the purpose of the wilderness. Moses was a First-fruits. He went through a 40-year wilderness before he overcame (Act.7:30-34) and then he went on to bring God's people through their own wilderness (Num.14:34). Many people don't understand that the wilderness is available to every Christian worldwide because the wilderness is not some physical location to which we go; it's a place in the Spirit. It's a place where we no longer depend upon the world and the principles of the world. It's a place where we are, instead, ruled by the principles of the Kingdom. We no longer trust in the world for our sustenance, our salvation, our healing, our deliverance, and so on. Scripture tells us that most of the Israelites who left Egypt never learned that lesson: (Psa.78:19) Yea, they spake against God; They said, Can God prepare a table in the wilderness? When they could no longer depend upon the flesh-pots of Egypt, they murmured continually. They found it hard to trust in the living God. The Israelites are just a type and a shadow for us. They went into a literal wilderness, but our wilderness is spiritual. Everybody who walks by faith goes into the wilderness. Everybody who walks by faith in the commands and principles and promises of God automatically gives up salvation by works. The promises of God are for the whole man. They are meant to save us completely in spirit, soul, body, and circumstances, and they are meant to do that totally outside the principles of this world. As a matter of fact, He even gave us all-inclusive promises: (Mar.11:24) Therefore I say unto you, All things whatsoever ye pray and ask for, believe that ye received them (The original Greek word there is past tense.), and ye shall have them. Why does Jesus tell us to believe we have already received them? It's because everything that has to do with the salvation that the Lord gave us has already been accomplished. (1Pe.2:24) Who his own self bare our sins (that's past tense because it happened behind us) in his body upon the tree, that we, having died (that's past tense) unto sins, might live unto righteousness; by whose stripes ye were healed. Again, the word there is past tense. All of the promises that have to do with the sacrifice of Christ on the cross are past tense. (Eph.2:8) For by grace have ye been saved (That's what it says in the original; it's past tense.) through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; (9) not of works, that no man should glory. You have been saved! (Col.1:13) Who delivered us out of the power of darkness, and translated us into the kingdom of the son of his love. You have been delivered out of the power of darkness. (Rom.6:18) And being made free from sin, ye became servants of righteousness. (11) Even so reckon ye also yourselves to be dead unto sin, but alive unto God in Christ Jesus. You were made free from sin! You see, when you realize that the Lord has already done all this, there is nothing you can do of yourself to bring it to pass. You have to walk by faith in the fact that it is already accomplished. You are already healed, you are already delivered, you are already blessed, you are already provided for and so on because all these things were accomplished at the cross. We enter into the New Testament “rest,” which many Christians erroneously think is a Saturday or a Sunday, but let's take a close look at what Scripture says about this “rest.” (Heb.4:1) Let us fear therefore, lest haply, a promise being left of entering into his rest, any one of you should seem to have come short of it. You see, the promises cause us to enter the rest because the promises are past tense, and when you believe them you have to stop your own works to try to bring them to pass. (3) For we who have believed do enter into that rest; even as he hath said.... When you believe these promises, you enter into the rest. For instance, you cannot do anything to get healed if you believe you were healed. The reason men run to man to get healing is because they don't believe Jesus has already healed them, but I'm telling you something that I know. For the past 55-plus years, I've been receiving healing because I realize that I don't have to do anything to bring it to pass. All I have to do is thank God for it. (Heb.13:8) Jesus Christ [is] the same yesterday and to-day, [yea] and for ever. He still heals everyone who comes to Him by faith (Mat.4:24; 6:19; 12:15; 14:36; Mar.3:10; Luk.4:40; etc.) If you accept that you were healed at the cross and you are not harboring unforgiveness or in any willful sin, then there's nothing that can keep you from receiving your healing. Hold fast to the confession of your hope that it waver not, for He is faithful that promised. (Heb.4:9) There remaineth therefore a sabbath rest for the people of God. The word “sabbath” there is the Greek word sabbatismos and it doesn't mean “a day of rest.” It means “a continual keeping of rest.” This is the true Sabbath that remains for the people of God. We have to cease from our own works every day. (10) For he that is entered into his rest hath himself also rested from his works, as God did from his. God doesn't want our works; He doesn't believe in salvation by works. Whether you are talking about your spirit, your soul, your body or your circumstances, salvation is not by self-effort. As the apostle Paul taught us, (2Co.12:9) And he hath said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for [my] power is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. You see, when we stop trying to save ourselves, God's very powerful to do it for us, just as He did for Paul, who went through a lot of trials because of the “thorn in the flesh” that was given to him. (7) And by reason of the exceeding greatness of the revelations, that I should not be exalted overmuch, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, that I should not be exalted overmuch. People like to say that the “thorn in the flesh” was a disease of the eyes or some other disability, but the Scripture plainly tells us that it was “a messenger of Satan to buffet” him. Paul lists for us these “buffetings”: (2Co.11:23) Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as one beside himself) I more; in labors more abundantly, in prisons more abundantly, in stripes above measure, in deaths oft. (24) Of the Jews five times received I forty [stripes] save one. (25) Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day have I been in the deep; (26) [in] journeyings often, [in] perils of rivers, [in] perils of robbers, [in] perils from [my] countrymen, [in] perils from the Gentiles, [in] perils in the city, [in] perils in the wilderness, [in] perils in the sea, [in] perils among false brethren; (27) [in] labor and travail, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. (28) Besides those things that are without, there is that which presseth upon me daily, anxiety for all the churches. He was brought into all those situations through weakness, and in Paul's weakness God was made powerful. (29) Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is caused to stumble, and I burn not? (30) If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things that concern my weakness. We need to do the same thing; we need to be weak to save ourselves. Many Christians today don't receive the deliverance they need because they keep trying to save themselves by their own efforts. Yet, what did Paul say? (2Ti.3:10) But thou didst follow my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, patience, (11) persecutions, sufferings. What things befell me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. God delivered Paul because he was weak to save himself. He gave himself into the hands of God because he believed the promises of God; he believed the Lord would always deliver him. (2Ti.4:17) But the Lord stood by me, and strengthened me; that through me the message might be fully proclaimed, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. (18) The Lord will deliver me from every evil work, and will save me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom [be] the glory forever and ever. Amen. And when Paul said the Lord would “save” him, he meant he would be saved like the Bible uses the word for “saved,” which is the Greek sozo. The word sozo is used for every manner of salvation of spirit, soul, body and circumstances. Sozo is used for deliverance from demons, for healing the body, for salvation of the soul, provision for the body, and so on. It's the same word the disciples used when they cried out to Jesus as their boat was sinking: (Mat.8:23) And when he was entered into a boat, his disciples followed him. (24) And behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the boat was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. (25) And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Save (that's the word sozo), Lord; we perish. (26) And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. (27) And the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him? They said, “Save, Lord,” and He saved them. “The Lord will deliver me from every evil work.” Do you believe that? We're supposed to be going into a wilderness now, saints. You can choose to enter into it by faith, by trusting in the promises of God, because God cannot fail you if you believe in His promises. Or you can be forced into it, along with the Church, in the coming Tribulation. If you walk by faith now, then you are walking into that spiritual wilderness, and I want to tell you that the wilderness is not as bad as you've heard. The Lord told me many years ago, “I'm sending you through a wilderness, so that you can tell My people that I still supply there,” and He has proven that to me over and over by putting me in a position of weakness. For instance, the disciples never took up offerings for themselves; they only took up offerings for other people, so the Lord wouldn't let me take up offerings. He wouldn't let me tell anybody my personal needs. He wouldn't let me store up my treasures on earth. He wouldn't let me borrow money. He wouldn't let me sell things. He wouldn't let me take any government benefits. When after many years, just recently, I received Social Security I have given it all away. And through all of that, I haven't worked for man, and I haven't taken any worldly benefits. God has faithfully sustained me; He's paid for everything all along the way. He put me in a wilderness, but it has nothing to do with a physical wilderness, and He's never failed to meet our needs. I shared with you previously how I raised five children: they didn't know doctors, they didn't know medicine, they didn't know anything but the power of God. And God always fed them, except for one time when the Lord put the trial of a fast on them. For all of these years, God has faithfully fed us, paid our bills, made sure our lights stayed on, made sure our gas stayed on and so on. He's been totally, 100% faithful. I was made capable to do this by His grace of unmerited favor. Even faith is a gift of God; ask for it. Yes, we are all going into a wilderness, but it's one that God made, and He made it for our good. You will see the world economy crash to create for God's chosen a wilderness. He is separating us from the world. He is behind the Beast kingdom and He is bringing the mark of the Beast (Rev.3:17) to force us into this coming wilderness. The whole world is going to hate us. We won't have the help of “Egypt,” just as Israel didn't have the help of Egypt. We are going to be thrust upon the mercy and grace of God, and the only thing we really need to be sustained is to repent of our sins and believe His Word. And when we do that, we also should expect that we will be tried. Even Apostle Paul talked about hungering and thirsting, but notice, he didn't starve to death. He overcame in the trial. God did the same thing with the Israelites. He brought them to one place of lack after another, to see if they were going to walk by faith or if they were going to complain. Sadly, they failed God, as the natural man always does, but we have something new in the New Testament. We have a born-again experience; we have the power of the Holy Spirit. Some people are going to go through the wilderness just like Joshua and Caleb. They are going to be walking in the steps of Jesus Christ and they are going to be victorious. When you are tried over and over, and you see each time that God is faithful, you enter into the rest. You just hold fast to your confession and hold fast to the Word. You don't even worry about your trial anymore. You just rest in Him because you become hardened to your flesh, you become hardened to the world, you become hardened to temptation. (Rom.5:3) And not only so, but we also rejoice in our tribulations: knowing that tribulation worketh stedfastness (“patience”). As a matter of fact, I've enjoyed the tribulation. The tribulation is a trial on the flesh, but it's so neat to see God being a personal God and loving you enough to look after everything. That's what He really wants to do. He doesn't want to share His glory with man, which He's been having to do because His people always run to the world. They run to Egypt and its methods and its ways. Well, the Lord put me and my family in the wilderness, and I'd like to share some testimonies of how the Lord has been faithful to sustain us. One time in particular, the Lord actually multiplied food for us. We had run out of everything in the house, except for some spaghetti, so my wife cooked up a pot of spaghetti and we prayed over that pot because we didn't have anything else. But I want you to know that we weren't even considering that God wasn't going to bring any more for us to eat because He had been doing this for us for quite some time. Anyway, my wife cooked up this fairly big pot of spaghetti, and it was about three-quarters full when we blessed it, and we started eating. We probably ate that pot down to lower than halfway, and when we were done, we didn't think about it; we just shoved that pot into the refrigerator. The next day, when we took it back out and my wife lifted the lid, we saw that God had refilled the pot! She said, “David, do you remember that the spaghetti was down to here?” And she made a mark on the side. I said, “Yes, I remember.” Saints, the Lord had replaced everything we had eaten. God is awesome! You can't get anywhere where He can't supply. Think about those Israelites. He brought those Israelites water out of a rock. God can bring you water in the middle of a wilderness (Exo.17:1-7; Num.20:2-13), He can pay your taxes out of a fish's mouth (Mat.17:24-27), He can bring you flesh out of the sky (Exo.16:1-13; Num.11:18-20; 31-34) and bread out of the sky (Exo.16:14-36; Num.11:7-9). Now, if our God can bring several million Israelites through a wilderness like that and feed them, just think what He can do with us, who are actually filled with His Spirit! Another experience we had, which I thought was even more awesome, made me realize that you really cannot get anywhere God can't feed you. (Php.4:19) And my God shall supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. If our God will supply our every need according to His riches in glory, then it has nothing to do with the economy and nothing to do with our surroundings. Even if you're in a desert, it has nothing to do with any of that. God made the promise; He's the One Who stands behind it and He will take care of you. On one occasion, we came to another situation where we had run out of everything in the house to eat and my wife asked, “What are we going to do?” I said, “Well, the Lord sent us here,” and she agreed. She said, “Yes.” So I told her, “You set the table and we'll go sit down at the table, and we'll eat.” So she did that, and then she and I and our five children sat down around the table with these empty plates in front of us. Next, I prayed a simple prayer, really the only kind I know. I prayed, “Father, You sent us here and we're asking You to please fill these plates or fill our tummies.” That's just the way it came out of my mind and I'm sure the Lord put it in there because He wanted to show us something. (Php.2:13) For it is God who worketh in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure. And so the prayer had no sooner come out of my mouth when my oldest son said, “Dad, I'm full. I don't need to eat.” It wasn't long before another one said it, then another, then another one, and then I realized I was full, too. I thought, “Isn't that something!” You know, the Lord didn't have to multiply anything. If He multiplied anything, He multiplied it in our stomachs. He filled all of us while we were just sitting there at the table. Then there was one time I decided I wanted to grow tomatoes. It wasn't the Lord; I made that decision on my own. God didn't call me to grow tomatoes; He called me to study the Word of God and and share it with His people. But I just decided, “Well, I'll take on this hobby. I'll plant some tomatoes.” Now, the house we lived in at that time was under big oak trees and we had very little sunshine in my yard, except for one place, so I planted the tomatoes in five-gallon buckets. That way, I could move them to keep them in the sun as the season went on. Soon, lots of little tomatoes popped out, but they hardly got to be any size at all before the birds came and took them all away. And I asked, “Lord, why did You let that happen?” The Lord answered, “I didn't call you to plant tomatoes; that was your idea. I have other things for you to do. Now get about what I told you to do.” So, of course, I told Him, “Yes, Sir!” and I never said anything to anybody about trying to grow my own tomatoes. Well, the very next day, a lady who was acquainted with us was going to a local tomato farm to get tomatoes for her family, and while she was out there picking these monster tomatoes, the Lord spoke to her and said, “I want you to pick a bag of these for David Eells.” She said, “Okay.” And she brought me a big bag of the largest, most luscious-looking tomatoes I'd seen in a very long time. You know, the Lord was kind of rubbing my nose in it when the lady brought me those tomatoes the next day and I thought to myself, “I really couldn't have grown anything like those, Lord.” I had to come to that place of weakness before He would do this miracle. We've also often prayed for very specific things, and the Lord has always done miracles for us. One morning, we prayed for Him to send us poultry, mayonnaise, and cheese. We asked Him for those three things and we didn't tell anybody, not a soul. This is the way God gets the glory. I remember a brother many years ago, who was an elder in the Church with me. He used to be a part of the prosperity movement, where the people would brag out in public about what God was going to do. They would tell everybody, “I'm believing God for this,” or, “I'm believing God for that,” so eventually someone else in the congregation would feel like they had to have compassion on their brother in “need” and they would bring it to them. God doesn't get any glory from that. When you ask God for something, just believe Him. Then, when it comes, He gets the credit. So we didn't tell anybody about our needs, but that day and the next day, all three of those things came. We had a friend who was going out of town, and she had this large jar of mayonnaise that she didn't want to leave in her refrigerator until she came back, so she brought it over to us. And then another person brought us a turkey and the cheese. It was exactly what we asked from God. You may wonder, “Would God do that for me, David?” I guarantee you He would. God is no respecter of persons. (Act.10:34) And Peter opened his mouth and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: (35) but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is acceptable to him. God is a respecter of faith, but He's no respecter of persons. He won't do anything for me that He won't do for you. I'm just trying to teach you how to be weak and to exercise faith at the same time, so that you are in this ideal position in the wilderness to see miracles from God. We've received so many over the years, I've forgotten most of them, but I can tell you that He consistently met our needs and we saw many, many miracles. Sometimes, even if we had money, we would believe God for clothes and shoes and toys for our children and they would come. I like to share this next story because it tickles me. My children all wanted to go camping one day, but when I was a kid, I did so much camping, I've had enough of it. I like my bed and I was making excuses. Well, I'd been back there before, walking through the woods where they wanted to go, and finally I told them, “There's nothing there to start a fire with and, really, we don't have any permission to cut down any of those trees back there,” but they were begging me, “Awww, Daddy, please.” So I gave in and we packed up our tents and other gear, and we took off into the woods. Now, there was a downed tree in the little opening in the woods that we picked for our campsite, and I want you to know that downed trees were hard to find in those woods. We set up our tents and I sent the kids out to gather firewood, but everything they dragged back was either rotten, or little twigs and branches, or pieces of tree bark. I told them, “That stuff just makes smoke; it doesn't really make fire.” And I sent them out again, and while I was waiting, I walked about 20 feet away from the tent but still in the clearing. I was kind of praying, asking the Lord to provide for us, and I had told them earlier that there was nothing to use for a fire, and we couldn't cut down other people's trees. Well, I had walked maybe 20 or so feet away from the tent when I came across this little lump on the ground. The floor of those woods was completely covered with leaves, and this was just a lump in the leaves, but when I kicked it as I walked through it, I hit something solid. So I backed up and raked all the leaves off, and there was a pillowcase on the ground. I pulled the pillowcase back, and there was a Poulan chainsaw on the ground. I thought, “Wow! Wouldn't it be something if this would crank?” because we had a downed tree right there by the campsite. Sure enough, it cranked. I cut up enough wood to have a really good fire the whole time we were there. I tell you, when that chainsaw cranked and I cut up that wood, I was thinking, “I'm sorry, Lord! Forgive me! I repent, because I said You couldn't supply us with wood back here.” My boys said they probably knew the kid that had that saw and that it probably was stolen so we gave it to the police who said if no one claimed it within 90 days we could have it. Well they called us to come get it. I didn't need it so I sold it to a Poulan dealer. And I ended up paying a bill with the money. Father has it all figured out. God had somebody plant a chainsaw out in the middle of the woods so it would be there waiting for us because God sees the end from the beginning. He doesn't dwell in time; He has no problem meeting your needs. He will have it there when you get there. (Isa.65:24) And it shall come to pass that, before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear. See, He answers before we call, and He can have our provision already there, or He can manufacture it. It makes no difference to Him. When Jesus brought the disciples into the wilderness, He multiplied the food there. (Mat.14:15) And when even was come, the disciples came to him, saying, The place is desert (The Greek word there is eremia and it can be translated as “desert,” “wilderness” or “uninhabited place.”), and the time is already past; send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves food. (16) But Jesus said unto them, They have no need to go away; give ye them to eat. (17) And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes. (18) And he said, Bring them hither to me. (19) And he commanded the multitudes to sit down on the grass; and he took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake and gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples to the multitudes. (20) And they all ate, and were filled: and they took up that which remained over of the broken pieces, twelve baskets full. (21) And they that did eat were about five thousand men, besides women and children. Jesus was raising up disciples. He was their teacher and He was showing them, “This is how you do it.” Then they went off into their tribulation, the Book of Acts, and they repeated what they saw. The Man-child, Who was Jesus, was God's provision in the wilderness, and nothing has changed. God's going to do it again; He's just going to repeat it with a larger group of people. Since we didn't have a big worldly income, we prayed for everything and God brought it. Back before I started full-time in ministry, we decided we were going to stop using money for the things that we needed. Instead, we started praying for what we needed, and we saw God just do miracles. Things we would normally buy with money, we prayed, and God would bring them. Any money we had, we would use for His Kingdom. There are different ways you can enter into the wilderness, but all of them give you confidence. You'll find that God's going to be there and He's going to supply your needs. If you need something, pray for it. Put faith in God. It honors Him, and it builds your faith. My youngest daughter came to me one day with a Sears catalog and she said, “Daddy, I need a swimming pool.” Her small wading pool would not hold water anymore because the vinyl was cracked from the sun. She started looking in the catalog, and I said, “Well, baby, you know where we get everything like that, don't you?” She answered, “Yep! Will you pray for me for one like this?” So we looked at the one from the catalog and we prayed and agreed in faith that God was going to bring that swimming pool. Well, you know God can give you something better than what you pray for, can't He? I think it was only about a week or so later that we were all in the house when there came a knock on the door, and when my wife went and answered the door, I heard a lady's voice. She said, “I'm looking for two little boys who came down and cut my grass. I live about five blocks from here, on the other end of the golf course, and I'm looking for those boys who cut my grass.” Then she happened to look past my wife. She saw one of my boys, and she said, “Oh, I see I've found the right place.” It's actually amazing she found us because the boys didn't give her a good description of where we lived, but the Lord led her right to our door. She went on, “I'd like to make a proposition with you boys. I have this 3-1/2 foot, above-ground swimming pool that's still in the box. It has a filter, ladder and pump. Everything that goes with it is still there. I was going to set it up in my garage and exercise in it, but I've decided I'm not going to do that. So if you'll cut my grass a couple of times, I'll give that pool to you.” And they were just so happy to cut the grass for her. Then they set up the pool and had a good time in that thing for several years. Of course, Jennifer, my daughter, was just overjoyed to see God answer her prayer that quickly. Children remember that, even if they go out into the world, they remember that God is real. They remember that He keeps His Word, and one day God will use that to bring them back. We had a tremendous life like this. We didn't have a lot of money, but the very fact that we didn't have a lot of money made us depend upon God. And in depending upon God, we got to see these awesome miracles. Another thing God did to put us into a position of weakness was we never borrowed money because the Bible promises, (Deu.28:12) The Lord will open unto thee his good treasure the heavens, to give the rain of thy land in its season, and to bless all the work of thy hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow. And Paul said, (Rom.13:8) Owe no man anything, save to love one another: for he that loveth his neighbor hath fulfilled the law. So we took God at His Word. We figured if we didn't borrow, we would be weak, but God would be strong on our behalf, and I have some tremendous miracles to share with you later concerning not borrowing and seeing God answer. The Bible teaches against “suretyship.” (Pro.11:15) He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it; But he that hateth suretyship is secure. The Hebrew word there actually means “to be a guarantor of an agreement; to give or to be security”; in other words, “to mortgage.” It means guaranteeing to pay back what has been borrowed, but we can't even guarantee that we're going to be here tomorrow. And the Bible warns us against making promises, pledges or guarantees of any sort. (Mat.5:33) Again, ye have heard that it was said to them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: (34) but I say unto you, swear not at all; neither by the heaven, for it is the throne of God; (35) nor by the earth, for it is the footstool of his feet; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. (36) Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, for thou canst not make one hair white or black. (37) But let your speech be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: and whatsoever is more than these is of the evil [one]. (Jas.5:12) But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by the heaven, nor by the earth, nor by any other oath: but let your yea be yea, and your nay, nay; that ye fall not under judgment. Who do we think we are to promise or pledge anything? (Pro.17:18) A man void of understanding striketh hands (That's the way an agreement was legally sealed.), And becometh surety in the presence of his neighbor. “A man void of understanding” is someone who does this; in other words, it's not a wise thing to do. I know it's a principle of the world, but the economies of the world are all going to crumble because they are not obeying God's principles. How much faith God's people would have if they were put into the position where they couldn't run to the world to borrow money. They would see miracles, but most people don't want to wait on God to see a miracle; they're too quick to run back to Egypt. You're probably wondering, “How could it be that we would not mortgage and God will answer? How would we receive homes?” Well, the home I had, God gave to me because I believed Him and I refused to borrow money. That's why I have it and it didn't cost me a thing. God is sovereign! Amen. (Pro.22:7) The rich ruleth over the poor; And the borrower is servant to the lender. When you borrow money, you're no longer a steward of what you have because what you have actually belongs to someone else. Jesus said, (Luk.14:33) So therefore whosoever he be of you that renounceth not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple. We renounce ownership; we are only stewards. But a steward who belongs to a bank is not a steward for the Lord. The borrower is a servant to the lender and the rich rule over the poor. The rich are running this world, folks, because they have everybody's money. (Pro.22:26) Be thou not one of them that strike hands, Or of them that are sureties for debts. (27) If thou hast not wherewith to pay, Why should he take away thy bed from under thee? A poor person's bed or outer clothing was commonly used as their collateral of last resort (Exo.22:27; Deu.24:13). Proverbs has a lot to say against suretyship and it's ignored by a lot of people, but I never would have seen the miracles that I have seen if I had borrowed the money instead of learning to just ask God. (Mar.11:24) Therefore I say unto you, All things whatsoever ye pray and ask for, believe that ye received them, and ye shall have them. When God gives us such awesome promises, why would we borrow money and have to pay it back with interest for years and years in bondage? The Israelites were forbidden by God to participate in usury (interest), or in suretyship (mortgaging), or in any such things, but when they went into bondage in Babylon, they were caught up back into it. We only need to ask God and wait on Him. He said, “Believe you have received.” If you think, “Well, God might not answer,” that's not faith! The Bible doesn't teach borrowing to get money; it teaches giving to get money. (Luk.6:38) Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, shall they give into your bosom. For with what measure ye mete it shall be measured to you again. I've proven that many, many times. When you give, God will give it back to you multiplied, just as the Scripture teaches, but notice it doesn't teach going under the Law. (2Co.9:6) But this [I say], He that soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he that soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. People want to reap but they don't want to sow. The Bible teaches that first you have to sow! You “give and it will be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, shall they give into your bosom.” (7) [Let] each man [do] according as he hath purposed in his heart: not grudgingly, or of necessity (not under law): for God loveth a cheerful giver. (8) And God is able to make all grace abound unto you (That's awesome!); that ye, having always all sufficiency in everything, may abound unto every good work (Isn't that something? Just for giving bountifully, God will make sure that you will always have all sufficiency in everything and will abound in every good work.): (9) as it is written, He hath scattered abroad, he hath given to the poor; His righteousness abideth for ever. (10) And he that supplieth seed to the sower and bread for food, shall supply and multiply your seed for sowing, and increase the fruits of your righteousness. People who don't really believe this are stingy and they hoard, but that's not the way for God to multiply. You need to sow. Think about sowing one little seed and how it brings forth. It brings forth multiplied, and even if you are poor in the eyes of the world, you will have all of your needs met. In the eyes of the world, Jesus was poor, but according to the Kingdom, Jesus was rich because He had His needs met everywhere He went. It was the same for His disciples, too. Their needs were met wherever they went. The riches of the world were just distractions to them, but their needs were met wherever they went because they were givers. Borrowing just puts you deeper in debt; giving gets you out of debt. From my own experience, there have been many times when I saw that what I had would not meet my need, and the money that I had would not cover my bills. And I would just take the money that I did have, and I would give it, and in giving it, it would come back multiplied. People worry, “Well, if I give it, maybe it won't come back in time!” God doesn't dwell in time; He answers before we call. (Isa.65:24) And it shall come to pass that, before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear. When you ask Him to do something, He's going to do it, so don't worry about it. For instance, many times I have put what money I did have into the mailbox to send to somebody in need, and then gone to the same mailbox only to find that what I sent out had been multiplied back to me. You might think, “But, David, we don't give in order to receive.” That's a moot point. That has nothing to do with what I'm talking about. If you do give, you will receive because that's God's promise. God will see to our needs if we meet the needs of the brethren to the best of our ability, even if we don't have a lot of money. I've taught before how the Egyptians stored up under Joseph in the seven years of plenty for the seven years of famine (Genesis 41). In type, Joseph was Jesus. Both were sold out by their brethren, lied about by the harlot, and turned over to the Beast, etc,. Jesus said we should store up our riches in Heaven, and He told us how to do that. (Luk.12:33) Sell that which ye have, and give alms; make for yourselves purses which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief draweth near, neither moth destroyeth. (34) For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. He said, “Give alms, meet the needs of the brethren,” and you will have “a treasure in the heavens that faileth not.” So, give and God will give to you. You can't out-give God, folks. You just cannot do it.

Prayer is not a monologue—it's a dialogue. Too often, we approach God with a list of requests, pour them out, say “Amen,” and move on with our day. But discipleship requires something deeper. Prayer isn't complete until we've learned to listen. Because when God speaks, His words cut through confusion, bring direction, and fill us with life.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” — John 10:27Teaching:Jesus made it clear—hearing His voice is not reserved for prophets or super-spiritual leaders. It's the birthright of every believer. Yet listening prayer requires training your soul to quiet down and tune in.Think of it like tuning a radio. The signal is already broadcasting, but you've got to adjust the dial to catch it clearly. God is always speaking through His Word, His Spirit, and His whispers to your heart. But we miss Him because we're too busy talking, distracted, or doubting.Here are some listening practices that help:* Silence and stillness — Take a few minutes to sit in quiet before the Lord. Let the noise of your thoughts settle.* Scripture meditation — Read a verse slowly and ask the Spirit, “What are You highlighting to me right now?”* Journaling His whispers — Write down impressions, thoughts, or nudges that align with God's character and Word.* Asking and waiting — Pray a simple question, then wait with expectation. God honors the disciple who listens.Listening prayer teaches you dependence. It reminds you that discipleship isn't just about what you say to God—it's about how well you respond to His voice. And the more you practice listening, the more confident you'll become in recognizing His guidance.Question of the Day:When was the last time you stopped long enough to truly listen for God's voice in prayer?Mini Call to Action:Set aside 10 minutes today just for listening prayer. Ask the Lord one question, stay silent, and journal what you sense He says.Prayer:Lord, teach me to quiet my heart and hear Your whispers. Help me grow in confidence, not in my ability to hear, but in Your faithfulness to speak.Let's Get To Work!The louder the world gets, the more vital it is to hear God's whisper. Train your ears today, and your steps will be steady tomorrow.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

In this powerful message, Buddy Fisch unpacks what it means to be sealed, secured, and sent by God. We're reminded that we are not only adopted as His children - but also authenticated by His Spirit and empowered to walk out our purpose. Drawing from Ephesians 1, Buddy looks at what it means to be adopted as children of God, made heirs with Christ, and sealed with the Holy Spirit. This seal is how God authenticates us, giving us spiritual authority, security, and confidence to walk in our calling. Buddy challenges us to embrace a vision-driven life, shaped by our faith in Jesus and conformed to His image. Vision isn't just what we dream about - it's the vivid, Spirit-led picture of who we're becoming in Christ and how we live that out in the world around us. Listen to this sermon to learn how to align your life with God's ultimate purpose and authenticating vision. 

What role does the Holy Ghost (or Holy Spirit) really play in a believer's life? In this episode, Bryan and Layne explore how Mormonism, the Book of Mormon, and the Bible describe the work of the Spirit—and why those descriptions matter.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --What We Talk About in This EpisodeThe LDS view of the Holy Ghost – As Layne shares from his own experience, many Mormons grow up seeing the Holy Ghost primarily as a “burning in the bosom,” a feeling that validates the truth of the LDS Church. But in practice, that “confirmation” is not enough—modern Mormonism teaches you also need prophets, temples, ordinances, and authority.The contrast in the Book of Mormon – Interestingly, passages like 2 Nephi 32:5 and Moroni 10:4-5 describe the Holy Ghost much more like the Bible does: as sufficient to lead believers into all truth, without extra rituals or institutions.The biblical picture of the Holy Spirit – The Bible consistently teaches that the Spirit is given when we believe (Ephesians 1:13, Galatians 3). He permanently indwells every believer, guiding us into truth, glorifying Jesus, and assuring us of salvation. The Spirit is a He, not an it, the third Person of the Trinity.How modern LDS doctrine complicates things – Later revelations in the Doctrine & Covenants change the role of the Spirit. Instead of being sufficient on His own, the Spirit is portrayed as temporary, conditional, and dependent on temple ordinances and priesthood authority. This shift points believers back to an institution rather than to Christ.Why the simplicity of Christ matters – Both the Bible and the Book of Mormon highlight the “plain and precious” truth: the Holy Spirit Himself is enough to guide and teach. Jesus promised that the Spirit would never leave believers (John 14:26, John 16:13). Mormonism adds layers of requirements that move away from that simplicity.Key TakeawaysThe Holy Spirit's role is to glorify Jesus and point us to Him—not to a prophet, a church, or an institution.According to both the Bible and the Book of Mormon, the Spirit is sufficient to guide believers into all truth.Modern Mormonism shifts the focus, teaching that prophets, temples, and ordinances are necessary for the fullness of the Spirit.The Bible teaches that the Spirit permanently indwells every believer at the moment of faith—no rituals, worthiness interviews, or temple covenants required.True freedom and assurance come when we embrace the simplicity of Christ and the sufficiency of His Spirit.Why This MattersIf you're LDS, former LDS, or just curious, this conversation raises an important question: Is the Holy Ghost enough, or do we need more than the Spirit to truly connect with God? Bryan and Layne show how the answer you give will shape your entire understanding of salvation, faith, and your relationship with...

What does it mean to be both a sheep and a shepherd? We're first sheep—dependent and in need of care. As we receive from Christ, we're called to give. Feeding others starts by feasting on God's Word ourselves.This four-part series draws us deep into the heart of our Shepherd, Jesus Christ, who calls us not only to follow Him, but to love Him above all else—and in that love, to feed His sheep. From Peter's restoration on the Galilean shore to our daily walk in homes, churches, and workplaces, we are invited to dine with Christ so that we may nourish others. Rooted in His Word and led by His Spirit, our lives become streams of comfort, truth, and encouragement to a world of wandering sheep. Join Gabe and Nate as they explore Christ's Command to, “Feed my sheep.”Want to go deeper in studying this command of Christ? Download a free study guide at https://homediscipleship.comStudy guide includes: Scriptures referenced in podcastReview of Old Testament contextGuide for Scripture meditationQuestions for application and prayerFor more information, visit us at https://homediscipleship.comFind us on Facebook and Instagram @homediscipleshiphttps://www.facebook.com/homediscipleshipnetworkhttps://instagram.com/commandsofchristpodcast

This sermon from Mark 10:17–31 shows us that while the rich young ruler came eagerly to Jesus, he was unwilling to surrender the “one thing” that held his heart: his wealth. Jesus reveals that every person has something they may cling to that threatens to take His place, whether it's possessions, pride, control, or comfort. Out of love, Jesus calls us to let go of whatever holds us back and follow Him completely. Though surrender feels impossible in our own strength, God makes the impossible possible through His Spirit. True life and lasting riches are found not in holding tightly to temporary treasures, but in releasing them to embrace a real and eternal relationship with Jesus.

God's Heart for the Nations The call to go is for every believer — fueled by Jesus' authority, moved by His compassion, and empowered by His Spirit. This message will challenge us to see the world as Jesus does and respond with obedient hearts.We'll also hear brief insights from Anil Dev Dutt and his family's faithful missional work in the villages of India.

This Sunday, we're stepping into 1 Peter 2 and continuing our journey through this powerful letter. Peter begins by showing us how love for one another is not just a command, it's the visible evidence of Christ at work in us. But he doesn't stop there. He warns us of five destructive behaviors: malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander. These things sabotage our community and damage our witness. They are not simply bad habits; they're soul-level toxins that erode trust and fracture unity in the body of Christ. If we've tasted the goodness of God, we should crave the things that nourish us spiritually - His Word, His Spirit, His people, and prayer.Peter then paints a beautiful picture of who we are becoming together. Individually, we're like newborns growing in grace; collectively, we are being built into a spiritual house. Jesus, the cornerstone, is the foundation for it all. Even though the world may reject Him, and us by extension, God sees His Church as chosen and precious. Each of us plays a role in this sacred structure, and we're all priests called to offer our lives in worship. There's no hierarchy here, just one Savior, one Spirit, and one mission.In a time when the church is often criticized for its flaws, Peter reminds us that we're not just a gathering, we're being shaped into something eternal. This calling comes with a responsibility: to live honorably, love sincerely, and shine brightly in a dark world. I look forward to unpacking this with you and challenging us all to consider what kind of “spiritual house” we're helping to build. Come prayed up and hungry for the Word.

What role does the Holy Ghost (or Holy Spirit) really play in a believer's life? In this episode, Bryan and Layne explore how Mormonism, the Book of Mormon, and the Bible describe the work of the Spirit—and why those descriptions matter.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --What We Talk About in This EpisodeThe LDS view of the Holy Ghost – As Layne shares from his own experience, many Mormons grow up seeing the Holy Ghost primarily as a “burning in the bosom,” a feeling that validates the truth of the LDS Church. But in practice, that “confirmation” is not enough—modern Mormonism teaches you also need prophets, temples, ordinances, and authority.The contrast in the Book of Mormon – Interestingly, passages like 2 Nephi 32:5 and Moroni 10:4-5 describe the Holy Ghost much more like the Bible does: as sufficient to lead believers into all truth, without extra rituals or institutions.The biblical picture of the Holy Spirit – The Bible consistently teaches that the Spirit is given when we believe (Ephesians 1:13, Galatians 3). He permanently indwells every believer, guiding us into truth, glorifying Jesus, and assuring us of salvation. The Spirit is a He, not an it, the third Person of the Trinity.How modern LDS doctrine complicates things – Later revelations in the Doctrine & Covenants change the role of the Spirit. Instead of being sufficient on His own, the Spirit is portrayed as temporary, conditional, and dependent on temple ordinances and priesthood authority. This shift points believers back to an institution rather than to Christ.Why the simplicity of Christ matters – Both the Bible and the Book of Mormon highlight the “plain and precious” truth: the Holy Spirit Himself is enough to guide and teach. Jesus promised that the Spirit would never leave believers (John 14:26, John 16:13). Mormonism adds layers of requirements that move away from that simplicity.Key TakeawaysThe Holy Spirit's role is to glorify Jesus and point us to Him—not to a prophet, a church, or an institution.According to both the Bible and the Book of Mormon, the Spirit is sufficient to guide believers into all truth.Modern Mormonism shifts the focus, teaching that prophets, temples, and ordinances are necessary for the fullness of the Spirit.The Bible teaches that the Spirit permanently indwells every believer at the moment of faith—no rituals, worthiness interviews, or temple covenants required.True freedom and assurance come when we embrace the simplicity of Christ and the sufficiency of His Spirit.Why This MattersIf you're LDS, former LDS, or just curious, this conversation raises an important question: Is the Holy Ghost enough, or do we need more than the Spirit to truly connect with God? Bryan and Layne show how the answer you give will shape your entire understanding of salvation, faith, and your relationship with...

In Christ, we are no longer spiritual orphans—wandering, unwanted, or unsure of who we are. God chose us before the foundation of the world, adopted us into His family, redeemed us through the blood of His Son, and sealed us with His Spirit. Our identity is not found in abandonment or uncertainty but in the […]

In this Godcast, Jesus' question pierces the heart and reminds us that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). And His question then; still applies today! Because His authority has not changed, His Spirit still empowers, and His mission still calls. As His disciples, we are chosen, equipped, and sent to carry His disciple making workmanship forward until our final breath. His authority is firm, His Spirit unstoppable, and His workmanship in us will always bear fruit, amen? I pray you are encouraged!  God's Word:Luke 6:46; Isaiah 29:13; Mark 7:6; 1 Samuel 16:7; Matthew 7:21; Matthew 7:28–29; Hebrews 13:8; Mark 1:34; Mark 2:10-12; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 6:4; Mark 1:40-42; Colossians 1:13-14; Romans 8:1; Mark 10:51–52; John 9:6–7; 2 Corinthians 4:6; Ephesians 4:6; Mark 4:39–41; Philippians 4:7; Mark 2:5–7; Psalm 103:12; John 8; 2 Corinthians 5:18; John 7:7; Philippians 2:9-11; John 6:63; Matthew 7:24; Matthew 24:35; John 12:48; John 17:17; John 12:46-47; Matthew 5-7; 1 John 3; John 14:12; Matthew 3:8; Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 10:5; Psalm 51:4; Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:10; Romans 8:29; Galatians 5:22–23; Colossians 1:10; Isaiah 64:8; Jeremiah 18; 1 Peter 1:7; Philippians 1:6; Galatians 2:20; Hebrews 12:10; John 15:16; Matthew 4:19; Luke 9:23; Mark 4:33–34; Matthew 18:4; Matthew 16:22-23; John 13:3–5; John 17; Luke 9; John 21:15–17; 1 Corinthians 3:6–7; Isaiah 64:8; John 17; Hebrews 11; Colossians 1:29-29; James 1:4; Colossians 1:15; Romans 8:29; Email: walkingtheway3@gmail.com 

In this message, Pastor Mike Jurek shares that the Bible is the key foundation for hearing God's voice. God isn't silent—He's already spoken through His Word. As we read Scripture, we become familiar with the way He speaks, making it easier to recognize His leading in our daily lives. The Bible also equips us to stand strong against deception and discern what truly comes from Him.Set aside time today to read and reflect on God's Word—try Ephesians 3:14–21—and allow His Spirit to guide your thoughts.DOWNLOAD THE SERMON NOTES HERE#HearingFromGod #BibleTruth #FaithStrong #GodsWord #GoodHopeChurchSTAY CONNECTEDYoutube: https://youtube.com/GoodHopeChurchInstagram: http://instagram.com/goodhopemnFacebook: http://fb.com/goodhopemn 

This week, we focused on the prophecy of Joel and its fulfillment in Acts, exploring what it means that God pours out His Spirit on all people, sons and daughters, young and old. The reality of God's Spirit indwelling every believer invites everyone to dream “Kingdom dreams. ”Spirit-shaped visions for blessing others, rooted in Scripture, tested in community, and aimed at the common good. Kingdom dreaming doesn't belong to a select few or to adults only. Jesus invites all of us to recover a sense of childlike wonder, trust, and courage, and to take concrete steps, however small, to love others in His name.Support the show

This past weekend, Alex Leyva continued our sermon series in the Gospel of Mark. Sharing the good news can sometimes feel overwhelming, or like something we're not qualified to do. But we were reminded that the gospel is more powerful than our past or our qualifications. God invites us into the work of His Kingdom, and by sealing us with His Spirit, He moves powerfully through us as we allow Him to use us to reach people for Jesus.

To say we carry God's imprint means His likeness is embedded in us, His Word is written on our hearts, His Spirit seals us, and through Christ we reflect His image in the world. If you've ever wondered whether your imprint matters, listen in on today's episode as I'Wanna encourages you to use what God has already placed within you.

Acts 2:1-13 teaches that the church's power comes not from human effort but from the Holy Spirit's presence, fulfilling Joel's prophecy that God would pour out His Spirit on all people. The fire that once appeared in burning bushes and temple clouds now rests on each believer. True evidence of the Spirit's work shows in two ways: we make much of Jesus, and we bless others by sharing His transforming love.

This sermon launches a three-week series on Prayer and Revival, calling the church to pursue a deeper, Spirit-filled life. Scott explains that revival is not hype or a planned event but an extraordinary outpouring of the Spirit that awakens people to God, brings repentance, and fills believers with fresh zeal. He gives three appeals: Believe – be awakened to God's eagerness to pour out His Spirit and refuse to settle for spiritual mediocrity; Weep – see the Church and world from God's perspective, allowing holy sorrow to fuel prayer; and Consecrate – deal ruthlessly with sin and remove distractions that crowd out devotion. Without prayerful consecration, we remain spiritually dry and ineffective. The message calls the church to reorient life around the pursuit of God, making prayer, fasting, and devotion top priorities, preparing for a fresh move of the Spirit in this generation.

Romans 12:1-2 provides a practical roadmap for discovering God's will, which Paul describes as 'good, pleasing, and perfect.' The journey begins with understanding God's mercy—how He justified us freely, made peace with us, united us with Christ, gave us His Spirit, declared 'no condemnation,' and included us in His story. This mercy becomes the foundation for our response of surrender. Paul calls believers to offer their bodies—their entire physical existence—as living sacrifices. This means making ourselves completely available to God, not just in spiritual matters but in practical daily living: our schedules, finances, habits, and relationships. This daily surrender constitutes our 'true and proper worship,' extending far beyond Sunday services to encompass our entire lives. The second key element is mind renewal. Rather than being conformed to the world's patterns of thinking, believers must undergo transformation through Scripture saturation, Spirit-led prayer, Christian community, and worship. This renewal isn't instantaneous but happens thought by thought, day by day. As our minds align with God's truth, we develop the ability to 'test and approve' God's will. Practical discernment follows a pattern: starting with surrender, consulting Scripture, praying deeply, seeking wise counsel, paying attention to providence, and taking steps of faith. Through this process, God's will becomes increasingly clear, not as a mysterious puzzle but as the natural outworking of a surrendered, renewed life.

A bad chapter doesn't mean a bad story. Prayer isn't just about where you've been. It's about moving you toward the sunrise God has for your future. Even in a valley of dry bones, His Spirit can breathe new life.

Romans 12:1-2 provides a practical roadmap for discovering God's will, which Paul describes as 'good, pleasing, and perfect.' The journey begins with understanding God's mercy—how He justified us freely, made peace with us, united us with Christ, gave us His Spirit, declared 'no condemnation,' and included us in His story. This mercy becomes the foundation for our response of surrender. Paul calls believers to offer their bodies—their entire physical existence—as living sacrifices. This means making ourselves completely available to God, not just in spiritual matters but in practical daily living: our schedules, finances, habits, and relationships. This daily surrender constitutes our 'true and proper worship,' extending far beyond Sunday services to encompass our entire lives. The second key element is mind renewal. Rather than being conformed to the world's patterns of thinking, believers must undergo transformation through Scripture saturation, Spirit-led prayer, Christian community, and worship. This renewal isn't instantaneous but happens thought by thought, day by day. As our minds align with God's truth, we develop the ability to 'test and approve' God's will. Practical discernment follows a pattern: starting with surrender, consulting Scripture, praying deeply, seeking wise counsel, paying attention to providence, and taking steps of faith. Through this process, God's will becomes increasingly clear, not as a mysterious puzzle but as the natural outworking of a surrendered, renewed life.

At Pentecost, God exceeded expectations by sending His Spirit in power, filling the disciples, and enabling them to proclaim His mighty works to the nations. What seemed ordinary—an upper room prayer meeting—became extraordinary when the Spirit came like wind and fire. God still works through unlikely people, empowering His church to witness boldly. The question remains: will we recognize His power and give Him glory, or dismiss it with worldly explanations?

Divine Frequencies is a sermon series about learning to hear God's voice in a world full of noise. God often speaks in a whisper—not because He's distant, but because He's close. Like tuning a radio, hearing Him requires focus, stillness, and alignment. Together, we'll explore the different ways He communicates and learn to recognize His voice with clarity, confidence, and intimacy. It's time to tune out the chaos, tune in to His Spirit, and live in sync with the frequency of Heaven.

Remember: (1) His promises in the storm, (2) His commands in the conflict, (3) His Spirit bringing His Word alive.

9/7/2025 – Radical Outpouring – Joel 2:18–3:21 – Pastor Joshua Kennedy – Radical Change Series

The Best Question Ever #RTTBROS #Nightlight The Best Question Ever"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." - Ephesians 2:10The other day on our ride to church, my son asked me a question that stopped me in my tracks. "Dad," he said, "when you get to heaven, what's the first question you're going to ask God?"Now, I've been asked a lot of questions over the years, but this one had me reaching for the brakes on my thoughts. I had to pause and really think about it. What would I want to know first when I finally stand before the throne of grace?But before I could even formulate an answer, my boy continued. "I know what mine would be," he said with the kind of certainty that only comes from a young heart seeking truth. "I'd ask God, 'What was my purpose?' So I could see if I lived up to what You had planned for me with the life I lived."Friends, I've heard some profound questions in my years of ministry, but I told him right then and there, "Son, that might just be the best question ever."You see, too many of us spend our lives like a duck on a pond, calm on top but paddling furiously underneath, wondering if what we're doing really matters. We get so caught up in the daily grind, the bills that need paying, the responsibilities that keep piling up, that we forget to ask the most important question of all: Am I living the purpose God designed for me?Paul tells us in Ephesians that we are God's workmanship. The word there in the original language is "poiema," which means a work of art, a masterpiece. You're not some mass-produced widget rolling off heaven's assembly line. You are a carefully crafted, one-of-a-kind creation with a specific purpose that God ordained before you took your first breath.Now, I don't think we have to wait until we get to heaven to know our purpose. God's given us His Word, His Spirit, and the gift of prayer to help us discover why He placed us here. But here's what struck me about my son's question, it wasn't just about knowing his purpose, it was about whether he had lived into it.That's the difference between head knowledge and heart application. It's one thing to know God has a plan for your life. It's quite another to surrender to that plan and walk faithfully in it, even when the path gets rocky and the destination seems unclear.As I've gotten older and hopefully a little wiser (too soon old and too late smart, as they say), I've learned that God's purpose for us isn't always some grand, earth-shaking calling. Sometimes it's as simple as being faithful in the small things, showing kindness to a stranger, or raising children who love the Lord. History is just His story, and each of us gets to play our part in His grand narrative.So here's my encouragement for you today: don't wait until you're standing before God to ask about your purpose. Ask Him now. Seek Him in His Word. Listen for His voice in prayer. And then, with whatever understanding He gives you, live boldly into that calling.Because when we finally do stand before Him, the question won't be whether we had the perfect plan figured out. It'll be whether we trusted Him enough to walk faithfully in the purpose He gave us, one day at a time.Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to seek Your purpose for my life and give me the courage to live faithfully in whatever calling You place before me. May my life be a reflection of Your workmanship, and may I hear You say, "Well done, good and faithful servant." In Jesus' name, Amen.https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Hey bae! We're back with another episode of Faith & Film Pt. 2! And today we're talking about The Danger in Dismissing Discernment. God calls us to listen closely, lean into His Spirit, and let discernment guide us in our walk and relationships. Grab your journals and let's get into it!If you feel led to sow into this wordCash App: $thechristianbaePaypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/TheChristianBaeZelle/Venmo/Apple Pay: TheChristianBae@gmail.comWhere Wives War Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherewiveswar?igsh=MTYwYjNoaGUxdjBrNg==Defeating Divorce (Married) Webinar:https://thechristianbae.com/products/uprooting-the-seeds-where-wives-war-webinarChrist Camp (Singles) Webinar:https://thechristianbae.com/products/christ-camp-singles-webinarPO Box 670192Coral Springs FL 33067Let's stay connectedYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0j-Bk97lLHz04EE7VPxGcQIG: https://instagram.com/thechristianbae_?igshid=18erhyzf20fvrThank you for always supporting The Christian Bae

How can we experience the miraculous power of God in our lives?   This message from Pastor John Lindell teaches that the baptism in the Holy Spirit gives us power to witness, pray, and see miracles—and that power is released as we walk in the love of Christ. Our prayer is that you will be strengthened in faith, filled with His Spirit, and live in the miraculous as His Kingdom advances through you.

Wednesday September 3, 2025XII Week After Pentecost---“The Grace That Finds Us”

Do you ever pray about something—big or small—and then wonder if God really heard you? Maybe you’ve asked Him to heal, provide, or even just help you find your keys, and later you’ve questioned if the answer was coincidence or divine response. Psalm 123 invites us to lift our eyes to God and wait expectantly for His mercy and direction. The psalmist models what it means to watch for the Lord’s hand in everyday life, trusting that He is attentive to both our deepest needs and the smallest details. Meg Bucher reminds us that recognizing God’s answers often requires training our hearts to notice His presence—in Scripture, in creation, through friends, and even in what the world might call coincidences. God is not silent. He is merciful, attentive, and always at work on behalf of His people. Main Takeaways God calls us to pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17), bringing both large and small requests before Him. Waiting on the Lord means watching attentively for His mercy and direction (Psalm 123:1-2). God’s answers may come in unexpected ways—through people, circumstances, Scripture, or His Spirit’s gentle promptings. Choosing to focus on His presence protects us from being overwhelmed by the contempt, arrogance, and chaos around us. Bible Verse References Psalm 123:1 – “I lift my eyes to you, O God, enthroned in heaven.” Psalm 123:2 – Watching for the Lord’s mercy as servants look to their master. Psalm 123:3-4 – A prayer for God’s mercy amidst contempt and arrogance. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray continually.” Calls to Action (CTAs) Subscribe to Your Daily Prayer for daily encouragement and Scriptural grounding. Share this episode with someone who is struggling to see God at work in their prayers. Leave us a review to help others discover this podcast and be encouraged by God’s Word. Resources & Related Articles 6 Powerful Prayers for Trusting God’s Plan – Crosswalk.com How to Recognize God’s Voice – BibleStudyTools.com When It Feels Like God Is Silent – iBelieve.com SUBSCRIBE to our sister podcasts: The Crosswalk Devotional: https://www.lifeaudio.com/crosswalk-devotionalYour Daily Bible Verse: https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.