Podcasts about his word

This story told by Jesus is quite different. Unlike all his other stories, this story includes specific names. This tells us it’s a true story of real people living real lives with a real destiny. These are true events. I’m a documentary junkie. It’s the only TV I ever watch. So imagine this story as we read it unfolding like a docuseries. I’ll split it into episodes for effect. Follow along in Luke 16: 19-31 Episode 1: “There was a certain rich man who was splendidly clothed in purple and fine linen and who lived each day in luxury. At his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus who was covered with sores. As Lazarus lay there longing for scraps from the rich man’s table, the dogs would come and lick his open sores.” —— Understand this scene. In these days, the rich were extravagant in their wealth and it was most displayed in their meals. The fatter a person was, the wealthier it showed them to be because they had the pure luxury of abundance. The rich would often wipe their messy food covered hands on pieces of bread while they feasted on their massive meals. And these pieces of bread used as napkins, were what the poor man named Lazarus lay at the gate begging for. The rich man was aware of Lazarus. He was aware of his need. And fully aware of his own ability to meet his need by simply affording him the bread where he wiped his hands. The rich man passed by him each time he left his palace. But, Lazarus was left laying there longing. Episode 2: “Finally the poor man died and was carried by the angels to sit beside Abraham at the heavenly banquet. The rich man also died and was buried and he went to the place of the dead. There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with Lazarus at his side. The rich man shouted, ‘Father Abraham, have some pity! Send Lazarus over here to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue. I am in anguish in these flames.’ But Abraham said to him, ‘Son, remember that during your lifetime you had everything you wanted, and Lazarus had nothing. So now he is here being comforted, and you are in anguish. And besides, there is a great chasm separating us. No one can cross over to you from here, and no one can cross over to us from here.” —— So, they have both died, but their destinies were eternally different. Lazarus, the beggar, went to Heaven. The rich man went to hell. Why would that be? Lets be clear – it wasn’t because of money. Money has nothing to do with our future with God. You can’t buy your way into Heaven and you can’t spend your way into Hell. This is the great separation that Jesus warned us about in Matthew 25. He says, “There will be a time when all will be gathered in his presence and he will separate the people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. On his right, he will says, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father. What you did this for the least of these, you were doing it to me.’ Then he will turn to those on his left and say ‘Away with you, you cursed ones, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his demons. When you refused to help the least of these, you were refusing to help me.’ And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life.” Lazarus is on his right. The rich man is on his left. Lazarus is credited as righteous. The rich man is indebted to eternal punishment. And now, after their death, there’s no changing their fate. They can’t go back. They can’t cross over. They can’t change it. When time is up, eternity is sealed. It’s easy to twist this and assume there’s a heavenly reward happening for suffering, and a hellish punishment happening for refusing help. But that’s not what Jesus is teaching. The issue wasn’t Lazarus’s poverty or the rich man’s wealth. The issue was the heart. Lazarus wasn’t saved because he was poor. And the rich man wasn’t condemned simply because he was rich or greedy. Scripture is clear that salvation has never been something we earn by suffering, by giving, by serving, or by doing enough good things. We are saved by God’s grace. So what is Jesus exposing? A heart that could see suffering and remain completely unmoved. The rich man wasn’t unaware. That’s what makes this story so uncomfortable. Lazarus was lying at his gate. He knew his name. He knew his condition. He knew his need. And he had more than enough to meet it. The need wasn’t somewhere across town. It wasn’t hidden. It wasn’t complicated. It was literally at his doorstep. And every day, he stepped over it. The rich man’s problem wasn’t that he had possessions. His problem was that his possessions had possessed his heart. He had become so consumed with his own comfort that someone else’s suffering could sit at his gate without disturbing his life. The rich man’s greatest problem wasn’t what was in his bank account. It was what was missing from his heart. Compassion. Mercy. Generosity. Love. This was a heart issue. What happens in the heart eventually reveals itself in how we treat people. And his heart condition is what led him to an eternal place of misery. A hardened heart that had refused God. Episode 3: “Then the rich man said, ‘Please, Father Abraham, at least send him to my father's home. For I have five brothers, and I want him to warn them so they don't end up in this place of torment.' “But Abraham said, ‘Moses and the prophets have warned them. Your brothers can read what they wrote.'” —– Now, in this place of eternal torment, understanding what really brought him here was not accepting God and allowing his heart to be transformed, his concern turns to his brothers who are still alive. He knows it’s not too late for them. He begs for his brothers to be warned so they can have a changed heart and not be tormented as well. Imagine this for a moment. Imagine knowing what you did wrong and wanting desperately to go back and warn your loved ones, but not being able to. Wouldn’t that be torment in itself? But, my sister, here’s the beauty in this – we don’t have to wait until our eternal destination and then wish we could go back and tell others. We’ve been told what is coming – we already know – so the time we have here today is our opportunity to do precisely what we would want to do from our eternal destination. We would want to warn others. We would want to tell them the truth so they could avoid future torment. AND TODAY WE STILL HAVE THE GIFT OF TIME. One day, we won’t. Notice what the rich man is told – he’s told his brothers had the opportunity to read what was written. They’ve been warned. What was written? The Bible. Scripture was always there telling the truth, inviting a change of heart. Have we forgotten the power in God’s word? When is the last time you gave someone the gift of a Bible? Do you have an extra just ready to give someone who needs to know God’s truth and God’s promises? Episode 4: One last effort from the rich man to reach his brothers who are still alive with the warning from hell. “The rich man replied, ‘No, Father Abraham! But if someone is sent to them from the dead, then they will repent of their sins and turn to God.' “But Abraham said, ‘If they won't listen to Moses and the prophets, they won't be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.'” ——- The rich man thinks of someone came back from the dead and told his brothers they would surely repent of their sins and turn to God. But God knows better. Do you know how? BECAUSE IT HAPPENED. Someone did rise from the dead – that was his son Jesus. And even with Jesus rising from the dead and reports of him being seen again, evidence of his Holy Spirit then filling people – still people choose not to believe and turn to God. It’s still happening today. Jesus came back from the dead to tell us, and we still ignore him. We have His Word. We have His warning. We have His invitation. We have His Spirit. We have the testimony of people whose lives have been transformed by Him. And most importantly, we have Jesus. The rich man wanted a miracle to change his brothers’ hearts. But he is told, “They already have what they need. They have God’s Word. They have the truth. They have the opportunity to respond.” And so do we. We don’t need another sign. We need a surrendered heart. That’s the sobering message of this story. The greatest danger isn’t that we don’t have enough evidence. It’s that we can have all the evidence in the world and still choose not to let God change our hearts. So while we still have time, let God search yours. Don’t wait for eternity to recognize what matters eternally. Don’t wait until the chasm is fixed forever to wish you had crossed it today. Don’t wait until someone you love is gone to wish you had told them about Jesus. Don’t wait until your heart is so hardened that you no longer hear His voice. Today, you can respond. Today, you can surrender. Today, you can soften your heart. Today, you can love the person at your gate. Today, you can give someone a Bible. Today, you can tell someone about Jesus. Today, you can turn toward God. Because there is one gift we have right now that the rich man no longer had: TIME. Time to choose. Time to repent. Time to believe. Time to love. Time to obey. Time to tell someone else. One day, our time will be finished. And when it is, our eternity will be sealed. So don’t waste the gift you’ve been given today. Let God have your heart while there is still time. Let this question settle into your heart today, “What am I doing with Jesus while I still have time?” Follow Pamela on Instagram – https://instagram.com/headmamapamela Or Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pamela.crim Find out more about BIG Life – http://biglifehq.com

Jesus Christ is not merely part of history—He is its focal point, the Beginning and the End, worthy of all glory, honor, majesty, and praise. In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef turns to John's extraordinary vision of the glorified Christ in Revelation. Jesus stands among seven golden lampstands representing His churches, reminding us that the Church exists to shine His light faithfully into a dark world. John sees Christ in overwhelming majesty: clothed with authority, perfectly holy, seeing all things, speaking with supreme power, and prepared to judge with righteousness. His Word penetrates the deepest places of the heart, and His face shines with glorious brilliance. This is the risen Lord who knows His Church completely—and whose return should shape how we live today. That urgency lies behind Christ's messages to the seven churches of Revelation. His words include warning, correction, encouragement, conviction, and invitation. And one of His most searching challenges concerns our love for Him. It is possible to defend Biblical Truth, pursue good works, and still allow our affection for Jesus to grow cold. Accurate theology and faithful service can never replace wholehearted love for the Savior Himself. If your love for Christ has weakened, His invitation remains open: confess, repent, and return. Rekindle your first love, order your life in light of eternity, and live today with the joyful expectation that your glorious King could return at any time. Let us pray. Lord Jesus, forgive me for setting my eyes on the things of this world rather than You, my Redeemer. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

In this powerful message from the MOVE: Faith Takes Action series, discover what it means to have a faith that moves before it sees.James 2 reminds us that genuine faith is more than belief, it is demonstrated through actions of obedience. Faith responds to what God has said, even when the full picture is not yet visible. Faith has feet. Faith moves. Faith obeys.Through the examples of Noah, Abraham, the woman with the issue of blood, and the priests crossing the Jordan River, we are challenged to trust God's Word enough to take the next step.You may not know everything that is ahead, but you know the One who is leading you. God is already in your tomorrow, and He is calling you to trust His voice, obey His Word, and move forward in faith.In this message, you will be encouraged to ask: What has God already shown me? What has kept me from responding? What practical step of obedience can I take this week? Sometimes the greatest breakthrough begins when we move from “Someday I will” to “Today I did.”This is your season to:Hear Him.Trust Him.Obey Him.And MOVE FORWARD.Join us as we learn that faith moves before it sees, because when God speaks, our response is obedience.Sermon Series: MOVE – Faith Takes ActionMessage: Faith Moves Before It SeesDate: Wednesday, September 2, 2026Soul Harvest Worship CenterHosting His Presence and Revealing Christ.

What does the power of God look like? As we see God revealed throughout His Word, we see a God who is all-powerful, One who can do all things, One for whom there is nothing too difficult. So, for what does He use His power? He has done and continues to do everything in His mighty power to save us, to redeem us, to set us free to be all He created us to be, to reconcile us to Himself, His children, who are created in His likeness and for His glory. The power of God does what we cannot do! In turn our greatest power and privilege is to surrender to what He is doing - loving us, so we learn how to love others. the love of God. God is love. Love is the greatest expression of power in all creation and in forever. Verse 8 in 1 Corinthians 13 remind us, Love never fails.Daylight Meditations is a daily podcast from CFO North America. Please visit CFONorthAmerica.org to learn more about our retreats, and online courses. If you are encouraged by this podcast, please consider supporting us. Contributors: Michelle DeChant, Nancy Holland and Adam Maddock

Join us for the Fall Feasts 5787: https://curtlandry.com/registerThere is a seat for you at the table – will you take it? In this episode of the Curt Landry Podcast, Rabbi Curt and Pastor Michael discuss the spiritual significance of the Hebrew Month of Tishrei, a season of new beginnings, renewal, and redemption. Hosting the three Fall Feasts and the start of a new year, Tishrei is full of God's invitations to come to Him, receive, and partner with Him in the season ahead. As King David honored Saul's crippled son, Mephibosheth, at his table, the Father invites His people into His presence regardless of personal feelings of unworthiness. He is the God who brings beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, redeeming our suffering and calling us to our true identity and Kingdom mission.This year, 5787, the Father is pouring our empowerment for His people to align our voices with His Word, bringing Heaven's perspective to earthly situations.Join Rabbi and Pastor Michael as they unpack the prophetic significance of the Tishrei and Hebrew Year 5787, how the timing of the Fall Feasts is a spiritual wake-up call for America, and what it means to anticipate both resistance and reward during this season.

Gem Of the Day (G.O.D.) about holding God and His Word close

You already have access to the single most powerful spiritual weapon available. In Episode 8 of "The Good Fight," Duane Sheriff reveals why truth is the first piece of God's armor and the foundation that connects every other spiritual weapon. The battle believers face ultimately comes down to truth against lies. God works through truth, while Satan's primary weapon is deception. We must believe a lie before we can become ensnared by it.The fight of faith is the daily decision to believe God, trust His Word, and make it our final authority rather than accepting the philosophies and fraudulent narratives of the world. God's Word is truth, and when we continue in His Word, that truth sanctifies us, separates us from darkness, exposes deception, and brings freedom into every area of our lives.Believers are called to become pursuers, lovers, and courageous messengers of truth. Although we cannot confront every lie in our culture, when we focus on the truth and speak it in love, lies are exposed, and strongholds are broken. Satan cannot stand in the truth. Stand firmly on God's Word to withstand every assault of the enemy and fight the good fight of faith.

Daniel Bennett reframes how we view physical healing, comparing it to the fruit of the Spirit that flows naturally when we remain connected to Christ. Grounded in John 15 and Romans 8:11, this teaching highlights that sickness and disease stem from a spiritual disconnection from life, while abiding in Jesus allows His resurrecting power to flow through our spirit, soul, and mortal body. Learn how simple it can be to receive healing by focusing on Jesus and letting His Word take root in your daily life.   Watch and learn more at: charisbiblecollege.org

Our words carry power, so let's choose to speak life, hope, and God's promises over every situation. Instead of focusing on the storm, we can declare His truth and trust Him to work in ways beyond what we can imagine. When we align our words with God's heart, faith rises and peace follows. Let's be people who build up, encourage, and release blessing wherever we go. God is still moving, and His Word has the power to bring breakthrough, healing, and transformation. 

Please listen and share my message: "I was blind, but now I see!" Please share and give us a 5-Star Review! Do you have Spiritual eyes? Can you see that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the World? Do you realize that He holds the keys of anyone who wants eternity in heaven? In this message God will open all of our eyes to the truth of His Word and His plan for every person on earth! God sent His only Son to give us favor and blessing in this life, but also to forgive us of our sins and make a way for us to go to Heaven! Join me as we discover the way, the truth, and the life thru Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior! 

In today's homily, Fr. Tyler Mentzer, MIC reflects on the mission statement of Christ. Jesus inaugurates His public mission by proclaiming the words of the prophet Isaiah, revealing that He has been sent to bring the Good News, freedom, healing, and salvation. His words announce not only who He is, but also the mission He has come to fulfill. Jesus then demonstrates the power and authority of His Word. He commands demons and they obey; He speaks and those suffering from sickness and disease are healed. The fruits of His words reveal that the Gospel is not merely a message to be heard; it carries divine power that liberates, heals, and transforms lives. Watch today's homily and discover how Christ's mission continues to speak with power and transform our lives today. Readings for September 2nd 2026: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/090226.cfm © 2026 Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception. All rights reserved. ⭐️ Support our Ministries: https://www.thedivinemercy.org/donate... ✝️ Explore Divine Mercy on Divine Mercy Plus! https://divinemercyplus.org/?source=YT ⛪️ Plan Your Visit to the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy! https://www.shrineofdivinemercy.org/?... Follow Us on Social Media!

The second commandment reminds us that God alone has the authority to define who He is and how He is to be worshiped, guarding us from reshaping Him into something more convenient or familiar. When we attempt to reduce God to an image or understanding of our own making, we diminish His glory and settle for something far smaller than the God revealed in His Word. Rather than fashioning God according to our desires, we are called to receive Him as He is and be transformed by Him into the image of His Son, from one degree of glory to another.

In this week's Sermon Extra, Pastor Michael and Tim discuss how Christians can grow in maturity and faith as they continue walking with Jesus. They explore different approaches to studying a familiar passage of Scripture and how digging deeper into God's Word can help us grow. Ultimately, spiritual maturity comes as we abide in Christ, remain rooted in His Word, and continue walking faithfully with Him.

Does God still speak—and how can you know when it's really Him? This week on The Breakdown Podcast, Shana Hilton sits down with Pastor James to break down the message "Does God Still Speak?" rooted in 1 Samuel 3:1–21, John 10:27, 2 Timothy 3:16–17, and Hebrews 4:12. Their conversation explores how Samuel learned to recognize God's voice and what it looks like for us to hear from God today. They discuss how Scripture helps us discern His voice, how to position our hearts to listen, and why obedience is an important part of following what God says. If God has felt distant, prayer has seemed one-sided, or you're unsure what God is asking you to do, this conversation will encourage you to keep returning to His Word and learning to recognize His voice. God is not hiding from you—He still speaks.

Genuine spiritual revival is universally accessible to any group of believers who fully surrender to God, regardless of their location or resources. It identifies intense, persistent prayer and a deep reverence for the Bible as the essential prerequisites for experiencing the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Historical examples from the Moravian movement, the Wesleyan revival, and various missionary fields illustrate how fervent intercession and scriptural fidelity have consistently preceded powerful spiritual awakenings. The text warns against relying on human organization or ecclesiastical efficiency, asserting that these are merely idols that hinder divine intervention. Ultimately, the message calls for a return to absolute dependence on God through prayer and His Word to bring about global evangelization.

LESSON 245Your Peace Is With Me, Father. I Am Safe.Your peace surrounds me, Father. Where I go, Your peace goes there with me. It sheds its light on everyone I meet. I bring it to the desolate and lonely and afraid. I give Your peace to those who suffer pain, or grieve for loss, or think they are bereft of hope and happiness. Send them to me, my Father. Let me bring Your peace with me. For I would save Your Son, as is Your Will, that I may come to recognize my Self.And so we go in peace.To all the world we give the message that we have received. And thus we come to hear the Voice for God, Who speaks to us as we relate His Word; Whose Love we recognize because we share the Word that He has given unto us.- Jesus Christ in ACIM

New Fall Study is here! Groups are forming now and officially starting after Labor Day. Sign-Up Today to get your study book (spiral bound or digital copy) and join a group, grab a friend, or study on your own. Here's an earlybird release of the first episode in the series, "Thessalonians: Holy & Hopeful" - Details/Register Here What does it look like to live holy and hopeful while we wait for Jesus? Join Jennifer Richmond and the Dwelling Richly community for a journey through 1 & 2 Thessalonians, two letters filled with encouragement for believers learning to stand firm, grow in holiness, love one another well, endure hardship, and live with confident hope in the return of Christ. These teaching messages accompany the 50-day Thessalonians: Holy & Hopeful Dwelling Richly Bible study. Each episode builds on the Scripture you've been studying, helping you understand the biblical and historical context, make connections across God's Word, work through challenging passages, and grow increasingly confident studying Scripture for yourself. Dwelling Richly studies are designed to be Bible-based, faith-strengthening, and community-building. We take Scripture seriously, ask good questions, learn to think biblically, and leave room to wonder, wrestle, notice, and grow. Whether you're participating with a Grace Group, studying alongside a friend, or joining us on your own, you're welcome here. Our goal isn't simply to finish another Bible study or collect more information. We want to know God better, love His Word more, live faithfully in light of what is true, and become better equipped to help someone else do the same. Don't just do Bible study. Dwell. → STUDY WITH DWELLING RICHLY http://dwellingrichly.org/ → JOIN THE DWELLING RICHLY COMMUNITY https://dwelling-richly.churchcenter.com/

Warfare Against Satanists (1) (audio) David Eells – 9/2/26   A Call To War Dumitru Duduman September 1993 . “Cease heading the way you have been going and turn to me”, says the Lord. “Lucifer, who is armed for war on his horse, and is coming with a powerful army behind him to take vengeance against the children of God. The day is close! A day of terror when Lucifer will try to annihilate all those that live a clean life, a day of pain and terror is near. (We are the salt, our job is to resist him. We were told “you have not because you ask not”.) “If you could see what is being prepared and what will happen, you would surely quit doing everything you know in your heart to be wrong and would seek peace more than ever. Be prepared, be holy, and don't give in to the temptations and impulses of the enemy. Seek the Lord, your God, with all your heart. Those who will be clean, those who will be holy, I will not forget. I will save them”, says the Lord. “The armies of the devil are coming against those who worship me and truly seek me, with great fury. Pray that I may give you strength so that before the storm comes, I may save you and give you joy. “Those who live in defilement, that meditate upon evil things, will have no escape. They will not have any protection. I will destroy BABYLON”, (America) says the Lord, “because of the wickedness and blasphemy of this country. Not only here but wherever there is sin, I will punish it harshly. Only the righteous will I save, some even out of the midst of the fire. “Again, I tell you, a dark cloud is gathered. Lucifer, sitting on his black horse, is ready for war. The trumpets of the devil are sounding day and night to all the demons of the deep to be prepared to make war against those who truly live their lives for God. There will be such great turmoil that only a few will escape. Those who today only carry the name of 'believer' will fight with fury against those who worship me with a clean heart. This is why I have revealed this to you -- because the days are numbered. “I reveal to you, I speak to you, I show to you”, says the Lord, “but many do not want to remember, saying to themselves, 'Is it truly the Lord speaking this?' Others become scared for the moment, but then they forget and never become pure. Many of those who carry the name of 'Christian' are overcome by greed, fornication, drunkenness, and a pursuit of great wealth. “There is no time to lose. The day of destruction and terror is coming soon. The devil is agitated, and a great deception is being prepared; but I tell you, do not fear. I have the power to protect those who obey me. You must remember the Word of God. Tell them to read the Bible and pray that I may also save them. “The great day, the day of terror, the day of affliction, of pain, the day of the punishment of Babylon prophesied in the Bible is soon coming, and I will only save the righteous”, says the Lord. “I forgive whom I want. I make holy who I want, and I prepare who I want. Judge no one, for mine is the judgment”, says the Lord. “Each of you judge yourselves. Pray and draw close to me; and if you will obey, I will come to your aid. I will send a chariot of salvation and take each one out in his appointed time”. We have dealt with the spirit of faction against our ministry for several years now and have been cleansed of it and the apostates, so we recognize it in the worldly and see it operating in the government. We are doing the necessary warfare against this work of Islam, satanism, communism, and faction, with their witchcraft, curses, railing, etc., causing problems for Christians, President Trump, his administration, and the MAGA movement. (We were told that the Bride was being cleansed now but the much larger church will go through this same thing in the tribulation.) I'm going to go over some terminology with you about these demons of:   Gossip, Slander, Railing, Reviling ... and What Motivates Them Our first defense against these demons is to not receive accusations against anyone that we do not have two or three witnesses, as the Scriptures teach. Many times, the motivation for gossip, slander, railing, and reviling, which are similar, is to divide others unto oneself for selfish ambitions, like making disciples. Satan has this same purpose. Anyone who listens to these demons gets invaded by them. In this case, the person working for satan should be marked or identified. Rom.16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them that are causing the divisions and occasions of stumbling, contrary to the doctrine which ye learned: and turn away from them. 18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Christ, but their own belly; and by their smooth and fair speech they beguile the hearts of the innocent. (This division or faction often involves jealousy, lying, and manipulation to get one's way.) Jas.3:14 But if ye have bitter jealousy and faction in your heart, glory not and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom is not [a wisdom] that cometh down from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish [Greek: demoniacal]. 16 For where jealousy and faction are, there is confusion and every vile deed. Indeed, these people always are in deep sin, for when they judge they are judged in this manner. Let's get some terminology straight so we can look at some scriptures. From Wikipedia: Gossip is malicious talk or rumor, especially about the personal or private affairs of others, meant to harm the subject's reputation in the community. It is one of the oldest and most common means of sharing facts and views, but it also has a reputation for the introduction of errors and variations into the information transmitted. The term can also imply that the idle chat or news is of a personal or trivial nature, as opposed to normal conversation, but may not be intentionally malicious. Mat.12:36 And I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. Thank God that we come into days of judgment so that we don't have to come into the Day of Judgment! The Greek word translated as “idle” here means “unfruitful.” There are unfruitful words that demand punishment in a day of judgment, so we should be quick to repent and be slow to speak. (I will give Greek meanings which reveal much here. Both Greek and Hebrew verses are given to show the nature of these errors.) Slander(er): Greek: Diablos; (Diablo is also Spanish for “Devil.”), Accuser; meaning accusing falsely, finding fault with the demeanor and conduct of others and spreading their innuendos and criticisms in the church. The devil finds those people who are accusers like him to do his dirty work. Psa.15:1 Jehovah, who shall sojourn in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy hill? [I.e., Who will be in Jerusalem, whom John was told was the Bride?] 2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, And speaketh truth in his heart; 3 He that slandereth not with his tongue, Nor doeth evil to his friend, Nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. This of course, cannot include those whose job it is to correct the evil. Psa.50:20 Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; Thou slanderest thine own mother's son. Psa.101:5 Whoso privily slandereth his neighbor, him will I destroy: Him that hath a high look and a proud heart will I not suffer. We can actually see God destroying the life and conscience of those who sin like this. Pro.10:18 He that hideth hatred is of lying lips; And he that uttereth a slander is a fool. Jer.6:28 They are all grievous revolters, going about with slanders; they are brass and iron: they all of them deal corruptly. Jer.9:4 Take ye heed every one of his neighbor, and trust ye not in any brother; for every brother will utterly supplant, and every neighbor will go about with slanders. Eze.22:9 Slanderous men have been in thee to shed blood; and in thee they have eaten upon the mountains: (They are lifted up in pride, imagining themselves as God.) in the midst of thee they have committed lewdness. Rom.3:8 and why not (as we are slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say), Let us do evil, that good may come? whose condemnation is just. 1Ti.3:11 Women in like manner [must be] grave, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things. 2Ti.3:3 without natural affection, implacable (they cannot be appeased), slanderers, without self-control, fierce, no lovers of good, Tit.2:3 that aged women likewise be reverent in demeanor, not slanderers nor enslaved to much wine, teachers of that which is good; Rail(er): Greek: Blasphemeo; to blaspheme, rail, revile, defame, speak evil of. 2Pe.2:10 but chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of defilement, and despise dominion. Daring, self-willed, they tremble not to rail at dignities: (I.e., those who have authority over them.) Jude 1:8 Yet in like manner these also in their dreamings defile the flesh, and set at nought dominion, and rail at dignities. (When I was young, people spoke with respect of the one the people voted to be president. Because of slander and railing, weak-minded people try to kill him. Jude 1:10 But these rail at whatsoever things they know not: and what they understand naturally, like the creatures without reason, in these things are they destroyed. Revile(er): Greek: Blasphemeo; to blaspheme, rail, revile, defame, speak evil of. Also commonly translated from: Loidoreo; to abuse, revile. Ecc.10:20 Revile not the king, no, not in thy thought; and revile not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the heavens shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter. Joh.9:28 And they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are disciples of Moses. But Moses had better sense. 1Co.4:12 and we toil, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; We have to endure these ignorant people until God removes them as He always does. 1Co.5:11 but as it is, I wrote unto you not to keep company, if any man that is named a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such a one no, not to eat. Do not partake of spiritual or physical food with these demons. 1Co.6:10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. So you see they are linked with other serious sins. 1Pe.2:23 who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered threatened not; but committed [himself] to him that judgeth righteously: God will repay. Most of the faction is dead. 1Pe.3:16 having a good conscience; that, wherein ye are spoken against, they may be put to shame who revile your good manner of life in Christ. Eph.4:25 Wherefore, putting away falsehood, speak ye truth each one with his neighbor: for we are members one of another. (Selfish ambition often involves pride, anger, and lying to get one's way.) 26 Be ye angry, and sin not: (?) let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 neither give place to the devil. 28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have whereof to give to him that hath need. 29 Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for edifying as the need may be, (Greek: Edify[ing] “the building up of the need.” i.e., If it's not building up the speaker and the spoken to, don't say it.) that it may give grace to them that hear. (If it doesn't bring graceful correction or give grace or favor from God to the hearer, then don't say it.) 30 And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, in whom ye were sealed unto the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and railing, be put away from you, with all malice: (All of this comes because of selfish ambition and unforgiveness for those who get in its way.) 32 and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, even as God also in Christ forgave you. If we want forgiveness from God, we must sow it.   Genghis Khan Spirit of Deception Eve Brast - 12/25/2011 (David's notes in red) In a dream, I saw many people being deceived by a much more powerful and deceptive evil principality called a Genghis Khan spirit. It will be worse than the false revival, Kundalini Eastern Spirit. (Genghis Khan was the Mongol who led legions of demon-possessed men to conquer most of Eurasia by the edge of the sword, massacring whole populations, about 40 million people. He is still worshipped by many in Mongolia, so he could represent a religious spirit here. No doubt this is a spirit that will bring spiritual death, conquering multitudes of Christians, like the Kundalini Yoga spirit's false revival. This new spirit conquers people by the sword or WORDS, written or spoken, which makes it much more dangerous than the Kundalini spirit, which was mostly imparted by the laying on of hands. These words are in the form of unforgiveness, bitterness, back-stabbing, criticism, slander, gossip, railing, lying, perversion, witchcraft, voodoo, etc. As with any war, the enemy will target the leadership with their words first in order to replace them with their own kind. If you listen to their words, you will be conquered and come into spiritual death and under their authority. These people always prefer to speak behind one's back, but you, the true Church, must tell them to go to the person they are accusing and speak to them alone, according to Jesus' command in Matthew 18:15, and if it is not sin according to the Word, they should stop gossiping and slandering and not receive such things. If they do not listen, “mark them” or identify them, as the Lord commands in Romans 16:17,18; Titus 3:10,11.) I was shaking my head in disappointment as I watched the people act like they were in love with this spirit; it was like a worldwide orgy. (The true people of God who stay with the truth of His Word won't be overtaken, even with this deception.) This is all I was shown. (We have been shown many times that this is a worldwide attack on the saints by apostates. The corporate beast spirit from the abyss is coming forth to enter the sons of perdition [Judases] and use them to conquer and make war on the true Christians. Rev.17:8 The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and is about to come up out of the abyss, and to go into perdition. And they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, [they] whose name hath not been written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast, how that he was, and is not, and shall come. As the Word says, a great falling away to strong delusion is upon us. Pray for anyone being used in this way that they would repent before they are ultimately reprobated and forever known as sons of perdition. When I opened my Bible for a scripture for this dream, my finger was on 1Th.4:3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification; that ye abstain from fornication; 4 that each of you know how to possess himself of his own vessel in sanctification and honor, 5 not in passion of lust, even as the nations who know not God. (A refusal to separate from known or hidden sins is what makes Christians vulnerable to these conquering demons, for God turns them over to them. 1Co.5:5 to deliver such a one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. [Refusal to separate from these people will infect the whole assembly.] 6 Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? 7 Purge out the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, even as ye are unleavened. For our passover also hath been sacrificed, [even] Christ: 8 wherefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.) I asked the Father what this Genghis Khan spirit was or what it represented, and when I opened my Bible, my finger was on 1Jn.2:22 Who is the liar but who denieth that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, even who denieth the Father and the Son. (Antichrist spirits always deny the true Jesus and Word to justify themselves. The rest of this text tells the whole story. 1Jn.2:18 Little children, it is the last hour: and as ye heard that antichrist cometh, even now have there arisen many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last hour. 19 They went out from us (They get offended when you don't agree with their sin.), but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us: but [they went out], that they might be made manifest that they all are not of us. [Notice that many antichrists in this “last hour” will separate from us because they do not belong with the true Church due to their leavened nature. In this, they deny the Father and Son (verse 22) because they deny the true Word given in the beginning, which is eternal life.] 24 As for you, let that abide in you which ye heard from the beginning. If that which ye heard from the beginning abide in you, ye also shall abide in the Son, and in the Father. 25 And this is the promise which he promised us, [even] the life eternal. 26 These things have I written unto you concerning them that would lead you astray.   12/29/2011 In the dream above, I saw many Christians being deceived by a very powerful and deceptive evil principality called a Genghis Khan spirit. I saw that this spirit is manifesting in the factious who kill by the sword of slander, and now, below, I am seeing that it is also taking over a beast government. (There has always been a beast government to back up the factious. Jesus' time was a good example of this. Obama is the head of a D.S. beast government made up of Islam, faction, communist, leftist, peoples.) I had seen a cleansing of the true church by this spirit rising up in apostates to separate them from the Man-child and Bride, but also now, below, I see a global shift and transfer of secular governmental power in the spirit realm to this Genghis Khan spirit. (To confirm this, on 1/09/12, we just discovered that Mongolia is on our school schedule for my son Noah's studies this week! And he also has to read a book about Genghis Khan, who came from there. Now I know there are no coincidences with the Father! Isn't that something?) It appears from the dreams below that there is a secular type to coincide with, and possibly give timing to, the previous spiritual meaning of the Genghis Khan spirit that God gave. The war between Iran and Israel is being used as a type of the war between the factious murderers and the righteous. The Iran faction type is also backed up by a beast government type of Russia/China. Also, it appears that what is seen below is that this is the time of the choosing of the Bride and birthing of the Man-child ministry. I asked the Father to expand my understanding of this Genghis Khan spirit from my first spiritual revelation concerning the Church. I opened my Bible and my finger fell on: Eze.32:24 There is Elam (Iran invaded by Islam) and all her multitude round about her grave, all of them slain, fallen by the sword, who are gone down uncircumcised into the nether parts of the Earth, who caused terror in the land of the living, and have borne their shame with them that go down to the pit. (Iran is about to lose her battle to Israel, backed by the U.S. In parallel, the factious in the world church will lose their battle against the righteous.) (I looked up who Elam was because I didn't know. Elam was a son of Shem, who was the father of the Persians or modern-day Iranians.) (Shem is also the father of the chosen line of Israel, meaning the true Iranians and Israelites are born of the same father. However, the Iranian's Muslim invaders and evil leadership represents the same thing as the Edomites, for they have perpetually made war against their own brothers. As we have seen in another parable, this also represents the factious in the world church who persecute their brothers but will lose by the hand of God. So now you see that the Iranian Muslim invaders' actions against Israel represent the factious people's actions against the Church, since they are born of the same murderous spirits. The Psalms speak often of the persecution and slander against David by the factious, and many of these are also prophetically speaking of Jesus and Jesus in the end-time Man-child.) Then I asked for a confirmation for this scripture and opened my Bible and put my finger down on Isa.21:2 A grievous vision is declared unto me; the treacherous man dealeth treacherously, and the destroyer destroyeth. Go up, O Elam (Iran); besiege O Media (Kurds of Iran); all the sighing thereof have I made to cease. 3 Therefore are my loins filled with anguish; pangs have taken hold upon me, as the pangs of a woman in travail; I am pained so that I cannot hear; I am dismayed so that I cannot see. (We see here that not only will the invader Muslim leadership of Iran attack first, as the factious always do. They murdered around 52,000, President Trump said 100,000 unarmed Iranian people, many turned Christians, before Israel and U.S. stepped in. We also see that this caused the woman Church there to be in travail with Christ coming through them. Is this a sign for the rest of the Church? Islam is killing Christians around the world. The red dragon of Satan is seeking to devour the woman Church. President Trump has opposed them three times recently. Iran has struck all of its Islamic neighbors.) Deb Horton's note: Genghis Khan was known and is studied in war colleges today for his strategic maneuvers. One of the most famous was dividing up his troops and sending in very small skirmish/attack forces before the actual war. (That may be what we have seen, when they struck all of their Sunni neighbor Islamists who are now against the Shia cult in the war.) The woman church, who is faced by the dragon, is in travail with the birth of the Man-child in Revelation 12:1-5. This appears to be giving us timing -- a physical sign of a spiritual happening?) About Elam: Jer.49:35 The word of the Lord that came to Jeremiah the prophet concerning Elam (Iran), in the beginning of the reign of Zedekiah king of Judah, (This was before Zedekiah made the tribulation covenant with the King of Babylon as the head of the beast -- Ezekiel 17:13,15-21) saying thus saith the Lord of Hosts: Behold, I will break the bow of Elam (Iran), the chief of their might. (This looks like the Islamists in Iran being hit by Israel and the U.S. before the tribulation covenant, as we have thought. In parallel, the factious will lose their war against the righteous in the Church by the hand of God.) 36 And upon Elam (Iran) will I bring the four winds from the four quarters of heaven, and will scatter them toward all those winds: and there shall be no nation whither the outcasts of Elam shall not come. (They are being scattered because the food, water, and pay are scarce and they are being slaughtered. The greatest revival of Christianity is there. They may scatter and spread the Gospel.) 37 And I will cause Elam (Iran) to be dismayed before their enemies, and before them who seek their life (of the Islamic Invaders); and I will bring evil upon them (Islam), even my fierce anger, saith the Lord; and I will send a sword after them (Islam), till I have consumed them; 38 and I will set my throne in Elam, and will destroy from thence king and princes saith the Lord. (Done, against Islam invaders) 39 But it shall come to pass in the latter days (now), that I will bring back the captivity of Elam saith the Lord. (Iran is being delivered from Islamic captivity. We see this as a prophecy of our day at the end of the Iran war. Also this is seen in Jer.25:25 and all the kings of Zimri, and all the kings of Elam, and all the kings of the Medes (Kurds of Iran); 26 and all the kings of the north, far and near, one with another; and all the kingdoms of the world, which are upon the face of the earth: and the king of Sheshach (Babylon U.S. weakened by war) shall drink after them. We also see in type in this text that the factious Islamic leadership will be brought into captivity in “the latter days.”) I asked the Father who the Elamites [Iranian Islamists] represented from these verses? (Could the Iranian Christians be a sign for the U.S. Christians who will also suffer under the Islamic beast?) When I opened my Bible, my finger fell on Jer.7:8 Behold, ye trust in lying words, that cannot profit. (Those Iraneans who joined the Islamists to betray their brethren,) 9 Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense to Baal, and walk after other gods that ye have not known, 10 and come and stand before me in this house, which is called by my name, and say, we are delivered; that we may do all these abominations? 11 Is this house which is called by my name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, I, even I, have seen it, saith the Lord. (This clearly is a warning to the Iranians under this factious beast of Islam foreshadow the Christians in the U.S. who have followed a false Jesus but are justifying their sinful actions.) I asked the Father if He had anything more for us concerning all this, and when I opened my Bible, my finger was on Psa.7:10 My shield is with God, who saveth the upright in heart. I believe this entire Psalm is a promise to us of what our Father will soon do to the factious who receive and commit adultery with this Genghis Khan spirit to conquer enemies by the sword. Be encouraged, brethren, and hold fast to the truth which you heard from the beginning! As I was lying down to sleep, I asked the Father to show me more about the Genghis Khan spirit in a dream or vision. As I was lying in bed, praying in the Spirit, He gave me this vision on 12/29/11: I was high above Earth, looking down from a southern viewpoint toward the north at the Asian continent, where Russia and China are. It was dark upon the Earth. Suddenly, I saw something dark rising up from beneath the Asian continent, from the center where Mongolia is located (where Genghis Khan came from). The Spirit told me that Mongolia is the opening to the womb between the two legs of Russia and China, and this spirit is rising up in and coming forth from them. Its back rose out first, hunched like a mountain (or kingdom); then its head and shoulders came out bowed down toward the east; then its arms, and finally its legs. It stayed kneeling down on one knee toward the east, bracing itself with its arms and hands -- one on Russia and the other on China (similar to the stance runners have at the start of a race). (This Genghis Khan spirit is a spiritual type of a conquering spirit rising in the Russia/China beast to back Iran in the Middle East. When U.S. and Israel hit Iran, they were successful. However, Russia and China have defense agreements with Iran and Syria, and because of this insult, they are coming together in an arms race to fight against the U.S. along with Israel. Iran, in its hatred for Israel, is a part of this larger beast. This is a type of the factious religious beast, being a part of the larger conquering world beast in their hatred for Christianity. This is also seen in Revelation 14 where the religious beast is one with the world secular beast.) It had a human form with sharp nails on its fingers, pointed ears, and a bald head. Heaven gave it permission to raise its head and take its first breath and as it opened its mouth and drew in a large breath, some more stars (nations) were sucked into its mouth from the night sky, along with the breath it inhaled. I could see very sharp top and bottom canine teeth. (Just as the secular beast has physical power to devour the saints, so does the religious beast have spiritual power to devour the saints. Psa.37:12 The wicked plotteth against the just, And gnasheth upon him with his teeth. Psa.57:4 My soul is among lions; I lie among them that are set on fire, Even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, And their tongue a sharp sword.) It was very black with many stars in it. (Abraham's seed are “as the stars of heaven”. Just as Russia and China are a beast that has many stars, they will seek to conquer Israel and the U.S., and many more children of God will be sucked in under this Genghis Khan spirit's darkness. The U.S. is being weakened by war, and especially by the previous administration's destruction of our economy and military. And Russia has its hands full with Ukraine. The West may not be conquered by the Russia/China beast until the tribulation, as the Word in Hidden Manna in the chapter on the “Fall of the United States” shows.) It looked like the night sky's mirror image inside it. It didn't stand up, but if it had, the Earth under its feet would have looked like a large beach ball. It was gigantic. (Genghis Khan is a world-conquering spirit of the beast in the secular realm, just as it is in the religious realm. Genghis was a merciless murderer of men like faction, and slander is a murderer of souls.) I later asked the Father for a verse for this vision of the Genghis Khan spirit and my finger fell on Eze.21:24 Therefore thus saith the Lord: Because ye have made your iniquity to be remembered, in that your transgressions are uncovered, so that in all your doings your sins do appear; because that ye are come to remembrance, ye shall be taken with the hand (Unforgiveness, bitterness, hatred and retaliation is the nature of those who have this spirit and God does not forgive or forget their sins for this reason. In verses 11 and 12 of this text, God says the sword “is upon all the princes of Israel”, meaning natural and spiritual. So the apostate leadership of God's people can be included.), 25 And thou, O deadly wounded wicked one, the prince of Israel, whose day is come, in the time of the iniquity of the end, 26 thus saith the Lord: remove the mitre, and take off the crown; this shall be no more the same; exalt that which is low, and abase that which is high. (This is clear that this spirit will conquer an apostate leadership of God's people in the end and they will be spiritually wounded and removed from their high position over any true people of God.) When I read the last part of this scripture, the Spirit brought to my remembrance what Mary said in Luk.1:51 He hath showed strength with his arm; He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their heart. 52 He hath put down princes from their thrones, And hath exalted them of low degree. (Again, this was spoken of the removal of the apostates over the true people of God by the coming of the Man-child ministry, as the next part of the vision shows.) Right after this, I saw the upper half of a giant woman in the heavens with long blonde hair and very fair skin, cradling a newborn with golden hair in her right arm. (The worldwide woman and true Church having brought forth the Man-child ministry.) Light from heaven was shining down upon them. (I only saw her profile and the top of the newborn's head.) She was also facing east (toward the coming of the Son), looking down at her baby, her white garment lowered off her right shoulder in preparation to nurse Him. And a clear vial filled with golden oil appeared without hands and poured oil onto the infant's mouth and onto the woman's right breast. Then she brought the baby to her breast to nurse Him. (This Man-child will partake of the oil and gold of heaven -- the anointing and nature of Jesus.) I asked the Father for a verse concerning the vision of the woman, and my finger fell on Psa.128:3 Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine, In the innermost parts of thy house; Thy children like olive plants, round about thy table. This whole Psalm is awesome! (God will prosper the woman Church to bear the fruit of Jesus in the wilderness, in spite of the dragon, who is satan, of Genghis Khan trying to destroy her and her Man-child. Escaping this evil is for them a Passover of the Destroyer before leaving Egypt for the wilderness. It is the Man-child escaping the dragon, which is trying to destroy them.) These two events seem again to be happening almost simultaneously or very close together, but they are both under the Father's sovereign control! I believe the Lord said this will not be prayed down, just lessened in some areas.   Enemy Tares Tianna Fire 4/24/23 (David's notes in red) (This is a revelation about the dangers of even thinking slanderous thoughts). I had been getting many strange attacks in the spiritual; unusual thoughts and feelings and many physical attacks all at once. I didn't mention this to my husband Samuel, but I went and had a bath, wondering to the Lord why all these crazy attacks were happening. I saw a specific person, and the enemy was giving her evil thoughts regarding me; she was unknowingly agreeing with those thoughts, not realizing it was demons. This gave the demons legal right to attack me regarding the evil cursed thoughts. (Rev.12:10 And I heard a great voice in heaven, saying, Now is come the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, who accuseth them before our God day and night.) I then had a vision of a few other people from my past, and some people who had fallen away. The enemy was giving them thoughts about me, and then the people were unknowingly speaking curses out loud against me. (Jam.3:5-12 So the tongue also is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how much wood is kindled by how small a fire! 6 And the tongue is a fire: the world of iniquity among our members is the tongue, which defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the wheel of nature, and is set on fire by hell. 7 For every kind of beasts and birds, of creeping things and things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed by mankind: 8 but the tongue can no man tame; it is a restless evil, it is full of deadly poison. 9 Therewith bless we the Lord and Father; and therewith curse we men, who are made after the likeness of God: 10 out of the same mouth cometh forth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. 11 Doth the fountain send forth from the same opening sweet water and bitter? 12 can a fig tree, my brethren, yield olives, or a vine figs? neither can salt water yield sweet.) I was able to understand the enemy was using these people to get a legal right to attack me; hence all the crazy physical and spiritual attacks. All of this worked because God has given authority to man; what they speak, they get. (Pro.18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue; And they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.) We either bless or curse, and the consequences of man's thoughts and words are more powerful than we really understand. The Lord allowed me to see where the mental and physical attacks were all coming from. (2Co.10:5 casting down imaginations, and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ). Then I heard in my spirit that because Jesus has paid the price for us, we have the power to not accept these attacks. Even though the enemy tries to use man's thoughts and words against us, we don't have to allow the thoughts and words to affect us. (Mat.18:18-19 Verily I say unto you, What things soever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and what things soever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 19 Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father who is in heaven.) We are not under the curse, and we are blessed because of faith in Jesus. The attacks, the evil thoughts, evil feelings, and pains, all were put on Jesus because He paid the price to take it away. But we still have the choice to accept the curse and allow the enemy to attack us, or we can give it to Jesus, Who already took it. (Gal.3:13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us; for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree.) (Pro.26:2 As the sparrow in her wandering, as the swallow in her flying, So the curse that is causeless alighteth not.) As soon as I heard this, I agreed, and I didn't accept these curses and idle thoughts against me. I agreed that Jesus paid the price, and the attacks completely calmed; praise God and ALL Glory to the Creator of all for all eternity! (1Pe.2:24 who his own self bare our sins in his body upon the tree, that we, having died unto sins, might live unto righteousness; by whose stripes ye were healed.) Later I went to Samuel, and he had been spending alone time with God. Samuel shared a prayer he had written for me to agree with and it related to what God had revealed to me. This is the prayer: “Do you agree that all curses, idle words and all witchcraft are broken off us and all the Brethren? That anyone who isn't wanting to follow the Real Jesus will not try to contact or see us unless they are manifesting Christ, and that all of the Brethren are healed, restored, and we will have enough provisions, and everything is restored or replaced with better? That we will never be separated from each other, and that we be Godly parents to David forever to glorify God in all we do; and that we manifest His Word and Christ in us, 100-fold all the time? That we will be His vessels, used to help others be closer to the Lord, being His Hands and Feet to establish His Kingdom, and that we receive all this now?! Thank You Almighty Father in Jesus Name for doing all these according to Your Word and Promises!”

God requires all His people to study His Word diligently—not ministers and scholars only. Today, R.C. Sproul explains why every Christian should seek to read the Bible regularly. Request R.C. Sproul's teaching series Knowing Scripture on DVD with your donation. You can also download all 12 messages as well as the study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Download the teaching series and study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Meet Today's Teacher:   R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Jesus doesn't say the world might hate you — He says it will. In this episode, we dig into John 15:18-20 and ask a question every believer needs to wrestle with: why does the world hate Christians?We look at four biblical reasons the world opposes followers of Jesus — because we're non-conformists, because the world hates truth, because people love their sin, and because they don't know God. Along the way we talk about the martyrdom of the apostles, Dietrich Bonhoeffer's "The Cost of Discipleship," the Vanity Fair scene from Pilgrim's Progress, and why smooth sailing in the Christian life isn't always a sign of God's blessing.If persecution and opposition are growing more common for Christians in the West, this episode will help you understand why — and how to respond with truth and love, not bitterness.This episode is brought to you by The Master's University — committed to Jesus Christ and the authority and sufficiency of His Word. Learn more at masters.edu

Read OnlineThe Power of His WordAfter Jesus left the synagogue, he entered the house of Simon. Simon's mother-in-law was afflicted with a severe fever, and they interceded with him about her. He stood over her, rebuked the fever, and it left her. She got up immediately and waited on them. Luke 4:38–39In today's Gospel, we encounter the first mention of Simon—whose name Jesus would later change to Peter—in Luke's account. Simon was likely present in the synagogue and witnessed Jesus cast out a demon from a possessed man. With a simple command, “Be quiet! Come out of him!”, Jesus revealed His divine authority. The people were astonished and exclaimed, “What is there about his word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out” (Luke 4:35–36).Having seen His authority firsthand, Simon presumably spoke to Jesus about his mother-in-law, who was suffering from a severe fever. It is striking to imagine the moment of Simon's first personal encounter with the Lord. Though Jesus, in His divine foresight, knew what Simon would one day become—the first pope entrusted with the spiritual authority of Heaven—Simon himself could not have foreseen how radically his life was about to change.Upon entering Simon's home, Jesus rebuked the fever. The Greek word used here, epitimaō, is the same word used in the previous passage when Jesus rebuked the demon. This deliberate parallel reveals that both the spiritual and physical realms are subject to Jesus' command. What He rebuked were real evils and disorders: demonic possession as a violation of the soul and the fever as a natural affliction of the body.Later in this Gospel passage, Jesus continues healing many who are sick and casting out demons. Once again, He rebukes the demons, silencing them and forbidding them to speak. Though they cry out, “You are the Son of God,” Jesus does not permit them to bear witness to Him. He has no need of demons to proclaim His identity. His revelation will come in His time, by His own design, especially through the Cross and Resurrection.Jesus' rebukes, whether uttered by a word, expressed through a gesture, or conveyed by His mere presence, are divine actions against evil. They are not expressions of wishful hope, but authoritative, efficacious commands. What He speaks comes to be. His word is not just powerful; it accomplishes what it declares.Understanding this is foundational to our life of faith and our spiritual journey. When we turn to Christ with trust, we must believe that His word has the power to heal, to free, and to transform. He does not speak in vain. His authority extends to every dimension of our lives, body, soul, and spirit, and He desires to restore all that has been wounded by sin, suffering, or disorder.One of the most tangible and powerful ways this takes place today is through the words of absolution spoken by the priest in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, a spiritual authority first given to Simon Peter and passed down through apostolic succession. The words of absolution are Christ's words, words that rebuke sin and its effects, restoring the soul to grace and peace. They are divine actions that accomplish what they signify.Though the words of absolution may be the clearest example, every Sacrament—Baptism, Confirmation, the Eucharist, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony—conveys God's grace and power through the efficacious word and action of Christ.Reflect today on your own trust in the power of Jesus' word. Do you believe He can rebuke the disorders in your life with divine authority? Do you turn to Him with confidence in the Sacraments, knowing that what He speaks, He accomplishes? Surrender all that afflicts you to the power of His Word, and allow Him to restore you to grace, relying especially on the sacramental authority given to Simon Peter and exercised by the priests who have followed after. My authoritative Lord, when You speak, what You speak comes to be. Speak to me, Lord. Rebuke my sin and weakness, so that Your holy will may be accomplished in my life. Let me hear Your voice, especially in the Sacraments through which Your mercy is poured forth and Your power is made manifest. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Christ Healing the Mother of Simon Peter's Wife, by John BridgesSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

The Doctrine of Balaam: Exposing Corruption in the Modern Prophetic Movement | KIB 547 Kingdom Intelligence Briefing DESCRIPTION THE DOCTRINE OF BALAAM: EXPOSING CORRUPTION IN THE MODERN PROPHETIC MOVEMENT Kingdom Intelligence Briefing — Episode 547 What does the biblical account of Balaam reveal about the modern prophetic movement? Balaam presents one of Scripture's most sobering examples of supernatural gifting separated from godly character.  He could encounter genuine supernatural revelation.  He could speak words God placed in his mouth.  He even delivered a remarkable prophecy concerning the coming Messiah.  Yet Balaam's supernatural experiences did not transform his character.  His heart remained vulnerable to money, honor, influence, compromise, and access to kings.  That creates a critical warning for the Church today: ·      Prophetic accuracy does not necessarily equal divine approval. ·      Supernatural power does not equal holiness. ·      Revelation does not equal character. ·      Gifting does not equal maturity. ·      Anointing does not equal obedience. Jesus taught that fruit remains essential in discerning spiritual ministry. In KIB 547, Dr. Michael Lake and Mary Lou Lake undertake a biblical examination of Balaam and discover that the New Testament gives us three powerful categories for understanding prophetic corruption: THE WAY OF BALAAM — 2 Peter 2:15 THE ERROR OF BALAAM — Jude 1:11 THE DOCTRINE OF BALAAM — Revelation 2:14 Together, these passages provide a biblical framework for evaluating modern prophetic ministry. The episode examines how genuine or claimed spiritual gifting can become corrupted when joined with covetousness, ambition, political influence, celebrity, sexual compromise, financial manipulation, and the commercialization of spiritual authority. One of the deepest theological observations in the episode is this: Balaam wanted God's power without God's government. That same temptation remains possible today: ·      Prophecy without holiness. ·      Power without obedience. ·      Gifts without character. ·      Authority without accountability. ·      Revelation without Scripture. ·      Anointing without crucifying the flesh. ·      Kingdom authority without submission to the King. True biblical prophetic ministry cannot be separated from covenant faithfulness and obedience. THE WAY OF BALAAM Second Peter 2:15 identifies Balaam as one "who loved gain from wrongdoing." ·      The problem is not legitimate financial support for ministry. ·      The danger begins when money starts influencing ministry. ·      When access to a prophet is sold. ·      When prophetic words become commodities. ·      When larger offerings produce more favorable prophecies. ·      When invitations, platforms, donors, and political connections begin determining what a minister will—or will not—say. ·      At that point, the gift is being monetized. Biblical ministry may receive support, but God's gifts must never become merchandise. THE ERROR OF BALAAM Jude 1:11 exposes another dimension. A minister can begin assuming that because supernatural manifestations continue, God must approve of the minister's character and conduct. Balaam destroys that assumption. Something supernatural happening does not prove that God approves of the vessel. The question must move beyond: "Was the prophecy accurate?" We must also ask: ·      Does the ministry exalt Jesus Christ? ·      Does it submit prophetic claims to Scripture? ·      Does it produce holiness and repentance? ·      Does it strengthen covenant faithfulness? ·      Is there humility? ·      Is there financial and sexual integrity? ·      Is there meaningful accountability? ·      Are failed predictions acknowledged? ·      Does the ministry create dependence upon Christ—or dependence upon the prophet? ·      Does it produce mature disciples—or prophetic consumers? And perhaps one of the most important questions: Will the prophet speak the truth when doing so could cost the prophet money, popularity, political access, followers, conference invitations, or the entire platform? The episode contrasts Balaam with Micaiah, who was willing to suffer rather than alter the word God had given him. THE DOCTRINE OF BALAAM Revelation 2:14 takes the warning even further. Personal corruption eventually becomes doctrine. Balaam discovered that he could not directly curse the people God had blessed. Instead, Israel was enticed into idolatry and sexual immorality. The pattern becomes: ·      Gift ·      Revelation ·      Opportunity ·      Desire for reward ·      Compromise ·      Rationalization ·      Prophetic corruption ·      Teaching others to compromise ·      Covenantal judgment The compromised minister eventually becomes an architect of compromise in others. DON'T THROW OUT THE TRUE BECAUSE OF THE FALSE This episode is not an argument for rejecting biblical prophetic ministry. Quite the opposite. The existence of counterfeit ministry makes biblical discernment even more important. Jesus places the doctrine of Balaam inside the Church in Revelation 2:14. The warning to Pergamum therefore provides a serious pattern for examining what the Church tolerates. The answer is not cynicism. The answer is testing. "Prove all things." Return everything to Scripture. Reject the false. Hold fast to what is good. And allow God to restore genuine biblical ministry. The closing message of KIB 547 is ultimately one of hope: God is preparing His remnant, exposing what is false, and calling His people back to Christ, His Kingdom, His Word, holiness, and covenant faithfulness. KEY SCRIPTURES Numbers 22:6 Numbers 22:9–12 Numbers 22:31 Numbers 23:8 Numbers 24:17 Numbers 25:1–3 Numbers 31:16 2 Peter 2:15 Jude 1:11 Revelation 2:14 Matthew 7:15–23 1 Kings 22:14 1 Kings 22:26–27 Acts 8:18–23 The transcript's central New Testament framework is explicitly built around 2 Peter 2:15, Jude 1:11, and Revelation 2:14. YOUTUBE CHAPTERS / TIMELINE 00:00 — Biblical Life TV: Empowering the Remnant 01:30 — Welcome to KIB 547 01:58 — Prayer, Grid Concerns & Preparing for Difficult Times 05:41 — Practical Food Preparedness & Community Cooperation 07:28 — Prayer, God's Love & Preparing for the Feasts 13:43 — The "Sugar-Coated Opiates of Babylon" 16:15 — Entertainment & Feel-Good Christianity 17:29 — Looking Back at the Faith Movement 19:28 — Is the Charismatic and Evangelical System Imploding? 20:03 — Returning to the Meat of the Word 21:34 — Three Levels of False Prophetic Ministry 22:18 — Level One: The Con Man and Mentalist 23:06 — Level Two: Occult Counterfeits in the Church 27:45 — Level Three: Balaam-Level Occult Power 30:38 — Why God Intervened With Balaam 32:46 — Revival Requires Spiritual Warfare 33:57 — Balaam and the Modern Prophetic Movement 36:52 — Balaam Could Hear From God—But His Heart Was Wrong 37:45 — The Real Biblical Test of a Prophet 38:34 — When Prophecy Becomes a Commodity 40:16 — Prophetic Warnings Must Reflect God's Heart 42:25 — Eisegesis: Making Scripture "Preach Better" 44:10 — Context, History, Language & Biblical Interpretation 45:00 — The Three New Testament Warnings About Balaam 46:07 — The Way of Balaam: Loving Gain From Wrongdoing 46:53 — When Money Begins Influencing Prophecy 48:32 — Balaam's Attraction to Honor, Prestige & Access 50:19 — Political Access and the Temptation to Alter the Message 52:07 — Refusing to Change the Message for a Platform 53:53 — Conference Invitations, Money & Ministry Gatekeepers 55:27 — The Error of Balaam 58:59 — Does Success Mean God Approves? 59:38 — Supernatural Activity Does Not Equal Divine Approval 01:01:54 — Faithfulness Matters More Than Ministry Celebrity 01:03:47 — Character and Obedience Remain Essential 01:04:43 — The Doctrine of Balaam 01:07:54 — Why Balaam Could Not Curse What God Blessed 01:09:34 — Sin, Compromise & the Strategy Against Revival 01:12:07 — From Personal Corruption to Corrupt Doctrine 01:14:29 — The Danger of Gifting Mixed With Uncrucified Ambition 01:15:29 — Balaam, Holiness & the Fear of God 01:22:10 — Prophetic Accuracy Does Not Equal Divine Approval 01:24:17 — "Touch Not God's Anointed" & Biblical Discernment 01:25:09 — Prophetic Flattery and Political Leaders 01:27:57 — Simon Magus & Commercializing the Supernatural 01:29:09 — God's Power Without God's Government 01:30:15 — The Seer Who Couldn't See: Balaam's Donkey 01:31:00 — The Threefold Balaam Test for Prophetic Ministry 01:37:58 — God's Judgment, True Prophets & the Coming Separation 01:40:00 — Don't Let the Fake Cause You to Reject the True 01:41:00 — God Is Preparing the Remnant for What Is Coming 01:42:14 — Closing Prayer: Centered on Christ, Kingdom & Scripture The closing section is particularly important: the episode moves from exposing corruption to preparing the remnant. The stated goal is not simply to identify false ministers, but to make the necessary changes now so believers can remain faithful through coming judgment.

God provides spiritual stability through His Word and Holy Spirit.The Christian life is not sustained by human effort or morality. God provides stability through the filling of the Holy Spirit, confession of sin, Bible doctrine, and spiritual growth, producing characteristics such as love, joy, peace, patience, faithfulness, and self-control.Key Takeaways:• Understand how the Holy Spirit produces spiritual fruit in the believer's life.• Learn the difference between the indwelling, sealing, and filling of the Holy Spirit.• Understand why personal sin grieves and quenches the Holy Spirit and why rebound restores fellowship.• See how Bible doctrine, faith-rest, grace orientation, and doctrinal orientation contribute to spiritual stability.• Learn how spiritual growth produces peace, patience, self-control, and other characteristics of a mature believer.Request your free copy of the book “Christian Problem Solving” or the bookmark “God's 10 Problem-Solving Devices.https://rhem.pub/request-publications⬇Download Transcript: https://rhem.pub/stability-god-5a151cRequest your free copy of the book “Christian Problem Solving” or the bookmark “God's 10 Problem-Solving Devices.https://rhem.pub/request-publications

You can know exactly what the Bible says about money... and still panic when it's time to actually make a money decision. If you're a Christian entrepreneur who's already fully in your business, already earning but still feels spiritually and financially unsafe with money, this video is for you. In this video, I walk you through a real client's journey through our 7-Step Biblical Money Mindset Framework, specifically Step 3, where we go deeper than the surface fear to find the fear behind the fear, and Step 5, where we instill new thoughts and Fun Money Habits that actually renew the mind. Fun Money Habits are daily biblical thinking habits that train the brain to think differently about money, not budgeting habits. GOD transforms the heart. HIS Word renews the mind. Fun Money Habits train the brain to live it out. If this is you, if you're ready to stop calling your fear discernment and actually renew your mind with GOD's truth, here's where to start: → Biblical Money Mindset Course (16-week guided framework): https://www.funmoneyhabits.com/biblical-money-mindset-course → Ready to go deeper, 1:1? The Fruitful & Faithful Steward Mentorship: https://www.funmoneyhabits.com/biblical-money-mindset-mentorship → Not sure where you're stuck?  Take the free Money Mindset Quiz: https://form.jotform.com/CoachRaina/quiz Behavior follows belief. Let's renew yours.  

Welcome to our Reveal podcast,Today, we're talking about Spiritual Growth.If WE R a church that wants to reflect who God is and what God does, then we have to understand that God doesn't just call us to believe in Him, He calls us to grow in Him.Spiritual growth is about becoming more like Jesus. It's learning to trust Him more, know His Word, deepen our prayer life, and allow the Holy Spirit to shape the way we think, speak, love, serve, and live.________________________________________________________________________To support this ministry and help us continue our God-given mission, clickhere:Subscribe to our channel for the latest sermons:https://www.youtube.com/@revealvineyardLearn more about Vineyard Church Reveal Campus:https://www.revealvineyard.com/Follow us on social media!Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/vineyardrevealcampusFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/RevealVineyard

Chosen to Lead explores what it truly means to be a leader through the example of Jesus and the story of Joshua. Leadership is not about power or position—it is about serving others, trusting God through opposition, staying committed to His Word, and having the courage to follow His direction. When God calls us to lead, He also promises to guide, strengthen, and never leave us.

Psalm 138:1-3 MSGThank you! Everything in me says “Thank you!” Angels listen as I sing my thanks. I kneel in worship facing your holy temple and say it again: “Thank you!” Thank you for your love, thank you for your faithfulness; Most holy is your name, most holy is your Word. The moment I called out, you stepped in; you made my life large with strength.In this passage, King David's gratitude is all encompassing. Everything in him says “Thank you.” Nothing is held back. All of his heart, soul and mind kneel and worship God.David's gratitude is expressed specifically about God's love, His faithfulness, His name, and His Word.David's gratitude has an origin and a reason for being: the moment I called out, You stepped in and brought strength.Gratitude cannot be fully expressed until the reason for gratitude has been fully recognized. Our busy, often distracted lives can cause us to miss God's goodness. Our self-focused perspective can keep our eyes on our perceived lack, not our realized gain.Listen again to David's appeal to God: Thank you! Everything in me says “Thank you!” Angels listen as I sing my thanks. I kneel in worship facing your holy temple and say it again: “Thank you!” Thank you for your love, thank you for your faithfulness; Most holy is your name, most holy is your Word. The moment I called out, you stepped in; you made my life large with strength. If you know Christ today, if you have a relationship with God, then He has indeed stepped in; He has most certainly made your life large with strength, even in Your darkest moments. There is power for daily living in gratitude.What are areas of you life, or people in your life that you should express your gratefulness right now?Can you thank him for the challenges too, knowing He will use them for you good?Let's pray using David's words: “Thank you! Everything in me says ‘Thank you!' Angels listen as I sing my thanks. I kneel in worship facing your holy temple and say it again: “Thank you!” Thank you for your love, thank you for your faithfulness; Most holy is your name, most holy is your Word. The moment I called out, you stepped in; you made my life large with strength. As above, so below.” - Amen

What can the final words of Moses teach Christians about God, His Torah, covenant faithfulness, and following Yeshua? In Episode 15 of Christians Follow Torah Too? — Part 7 of our Deuteronomy series, Sabbath Lounge continues our verse-by-verse journey through Deuteronomy 32–34, the final chapters of Moses' life and the conclusion of the book of Deuteronomy. These chapters contain some of the most powerful and prophetic words in the Torah—including the Song of Moses, God's warnings about Israel's future, Moses' final blessing, the commissioning of Joshua, and the death of Moses. But there's an important question behind these chapters: If Moses' final instructions came from God, what do they mean for people who follow Yeshua today? Could Deuteronomy 32–34 help us better understand the relationship between Torah, covenant, obedience, faith, and Christianity? In this Bible study, we examine the text carefully and compare what we find in Deuteronomy with the teachings of Yeshua (Jesus) and the rest of Scripture.  

It's easy to recognize what needs to change in someone else. James turns the focus back on us.In this message from James 4:11–12, Pastor James challenges us to stop rendering verdicts over people and remember the work God has actually given us to do: obey His Word, love our neighbor, work on our own hearts, and show mercy. There is one judgment seat, and our name isn't on it.Do your job. Let God do His. He sees the heart, knows every motive, and can be trusted with every person. And the good news is that the One qualified to judge us came offering mercy.Support the show

God's ways are far beyond human understanding. We often assume that the greater will be served by the lesser, but that doesn't apply to the Trinity, where the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are fully equal. Pastor Ken teaches you today that the unity and equality within the Trinity reveal the perfect nature of God's love and purpose. And that even Bible teachers wrestle with understanding these truths. So let that be a comfort to you as you continue to grow in your understanding of God and His Word. 

In this episode of Contending for the Word, Dave Jenkins begins the Truth in a Post-Truth Culture series by examining postmodernism and its rejection of objective truth. As culture increasingly treats truth as personal, subjective, and shaped by experience, Christians must be anchored in what God has revealed. Scripture teaches that truth is grounded in the unchanging character of God, revealed in His Word, and ultimately found in Jesus Christ. This episode explains why postmodernism matters, how it has influenced the church, what is at stake for the gospel and sound doctrine, and how believers can stand with humility, conviction, and love upon the sufficient Word of God. For more from Contending for the Word, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-podcast/

Guest Speaker Dr. Bowzer shared a powerful message on viewing our present circumstances through the promises God has given us in His Word.Hold tightly to God's promises, even when you can't see the fulfillment yet. Keep believing, keep standing, and keep trusting until you see His promises manifest in your life.INFOWebsite: scaccesschurch.comWeekly Updates: bulletin.scaccesschurch.comFOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurchInstagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurchYouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurchGIVE: give.scaccesschurch.comABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

In this episode of Contending for the Word, Dave Jenkins begins the Truth in a Post-Truth Culture series by examining postmodernism and its rejection of objective truth. As culture increasingly treats truth as personal, subjective, and shaped by experience, Christians must be anchored in what God has revealed. Scripture teaches that truth is grounded in the unchanging character of God, revealed in His Word, and ultimately found in Jesus Christ. This episode explains why postmodernism matters, how it has influenced the church, what is at stake for the gospel and sound doctrine, and how believers can stand with humility, conviction, and love upon the sufficient Word of God. For more from Contending for the Word, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-podcast/

One reason we find sin appealing is because we fail to believe what God says in His Word. Today, R.C. Sproul outlines the close relationship between sin and unbelief. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ultimately-with-rc-sproul/sin-is-unbelief/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What if you could approach each day with greater courage, deeper faith, and a growing trust in God’s Word? This September, Your Daily Bible Verse invites you to journey through the Book of Joshua with Courage for the Journey: Trusting God One Step at a Time, a 22-episode series designed to help you discover what it means to follow God through uncertainty, challenges, victories, and every step in between. Courage for the Journey begins September 1 and continues throughout the month. Every weekday, you’ll hear a daily Bible verse from Joshua and a message of encouragement to help you connect Scripture to your everyday life. As Joshua and God’s people learn to trust God’s presence and promises, we’ll discover how His Word can guide, strengthen, and encourage us on our own journeys of faith. The Book of Joshua emphasizes God's presence, faithfulness, courage, and the importance of trusting His Word. Take the next step with us and discover how you can trust God’s Word one step at a time. Follow Your Daily Bible Verse and follow along throughout September. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Read OnlineThe Holy One of GodIn the synagogue there was a man with the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out in a loud voice, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” Jesus rebuked him and said, “Be quiet! Come out of him!” Then the demon threw the man down in front of them and came out of him without doing him any harm. Luke 4:33–35Yesterday, we began reading from the Gospel of Luke in our weekday liturgies, and we will continue to do so until the season of Advent. Luke's Gospel was written especially for Gentile converts—those unfamiliar with Jewish customs—presenting Jesus not only as the fulfillment of Israel's hopes but also as the Savior of all humanity. Unlike Matthew, who highlights Christ's fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, Luke reveals a broader vision: a universal Savior who brings healing, mercy, and salvation to the poor, the outcast, and the sinner.In today's passage, that universal mission is subtly foreshadowed through Jesus' divine authority. Though the setting is a Jewish synagogue in Capernaum, His actions speak to a power not confined to time, place, or people. With a simple word, Jesus rebukes the demon, silences its protest, and frees the afflicted man. The astonishment of the crowd—“What is there about his word?”—captures the essence of the moment: Here is One whose authority reaches even into the unseen spiritual world and commands it.Though He ministers among His own people, Jesus is not merely a teacher of the Law or a local prophet. His authority is absolute, His identity divine. The demon's cry—“I know who you are, the Holy One of God!”—offers a strange testimony: Even the spiritual forces of darkness recognize and submit to Him. This is not just a healing; it is a confrontation between the kingdom of God and the powers of evil. And it is only the beginning.Luke includes this scene early in his Gospel to show that Jesus' mission is one of liberation—liberation from sin, bondage, and every form of darkness. The fact that this miracle occurs in a synagogue reminds us that no place, however sacred, is immune to the presence of evil. But more importantly, it reminds us that no evil is immune to the authority of Christ.It is also helpful to recall the broader context. This event comes shortly after Jesus' baptism, His forty days in the desert, and His rejection in Nazareth. That rejection led Him to Capernaum, a humble fishing village that would become the center of His Galilean ministry. It is here that He will call Peter, Andrew, James, John, and Matthew—men who will carry His Gospel to the ends of the earth. Thus, what begins in a small synagogue soon echoes to the nations.Reflect today on the universal scope of Luke's Gospel, which we will hear over the coming months. Though Jesus begins within Israel, His mission reaches every soul. By beginning His ministry with a confrontation against evil, Jesus reveals that He has come not only to teach but to conquer—to break the chains of darkness and bring divine healing to the world. His Word still speaks with authority. May we listen, believe, and be set free from the evil one and all his demonic powers, so that we may help proclaim Christ's Kingdom to the ends of the earth in our own unique ways.My Lord and Holy One of God, from the very beginning of Your public ministry, You established Your divine authority over evil, revealing that You came to destroy the kingdom of darkness and to build Your Eternal Kingdom of truth and grace. Please cast out all evil and sin from my heart, so that Your reign may take full possession of my soul. Use me as You will to further Your Kingdom on earth, bringing Your light and truth to the ends of the earth, one soul at a time. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Jesus Casts Out the Evil Spirit, by Julius Schnorr von CarolsfeldSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Week Four - Theological IntegrationThis episode features Greg Pinkner and Sarah Scott exploring what it means for theology to shape the whole of our lives. Theology is not reserved for classrooms or scholars. What we believe about God shapes how we understand ourselves, walk through suffering, make decisions, and live every part of our lives. Theological integration brings together right thinking and right living, allowing the truth of who God is to move from our minds into our hearts and ultimately into our actions. As we know God more deeply through His Word, theology becomes more than information. It becomes an invitation to love Him, become more like Him, and live in response to who He is. Today's episode ties with the sermon from August 30 called “Theological Integration.”

What happens when the things we thought were certain suddenly aren't?Death has a way of bringing life into focus. It reminds us how little control we actually have, how quickly plans can change, and how easily we can become consumed with what might happen next. But what if God never intended for us to wait until tragedy, loss, or the mountaintop moment to discover what it means to truly trust Him?In this episode, we're talking about becoming a living testimony in the ordinary—not just testifying when God does something amazing, but allowing His Word to become so deeply rooted in us that it changes how we live on the normal Tuesday, in the uncertainty, in the waiting, and even in the things that don't make sense on paper.Jesus knew death was coming, yet He could still say, “Not My will, but Yours.” That kind of surrender doesn't begin in the crisis. It grows from roots that have already gone deep.We'll talk about anxiety and our desire to control what comes next, the difference between being attached and truly rooted, finding peace when we don't know the outcome, and trusting that if the Lord wills, His plans will stand.Because maybe faith isn't knowing what tomorrow holds.Maybe faith is knowing Who holds tomorrow—and letting that truth change how we live today.Scriptures: James 4:13–15 • Luke 22:42 • Matthew 6:34 • Proverbs 3:5–6The question we're leaving with:If death has the power to change our perspective, why do we wait for something to die before we change the way we live?

From “In the Beginning” to Amen // Fresh Mercies – Every MorningDiscipline/Punishment/CorrectionAlmost Always UnpleasantNo Matter the Degree of The Punishment Why Does God Put This Kind of Stuff in His Word? 1 Corinthians 10:11 (ESV)“These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come.” Laminations 3:31-33 (NLT)“For no one is cast off by the Lord forever. Though He brings grief…He will show compassion, so great is His unfailing love. For He does not willingly bring affliction or grief to anyone.” 2 Chronicles 36:15 (NIV)“The Lord sent word to them through his messengers (prophets) again and again, because He had pity on His people and on His dwelling place.” 2 Chronicles 36:16 (NIV)“They mocked God's messengers, despised His words and scoffed at His prophets until the wrath of the Lord was aroused against His people and there was no remedy.” God Was and IsLong Suffering and PatientWith Us When We SinBecause Of His Love Because He Wants Us to See WhatA Covenant of Love Looks LikeWhat Godly Discipline God's DisciplineIsn't For the Purposes of Destruction Where We Are Unfaithful, God Remains Faithful Still!! “Mercy”רַחֲמִים(raḥămîm) / חֶסֶד(ḥesed) Isaiah 54:7-8 (NIV)"For a brief moment I abandoned you, but with deep compassion (rahamim gedolim). I will bring you back. In a surge of anger, I hid my face from you for a moment, but with everlasting kindness (hesed olam) (or forever loving kindness) I will have compassion (rahamim) on you,” says the Lord your Redeemer.” God's ReversalsAka – “Restoration”

Send us Fan Mail All of our lives are filled with distractions - some of those distractions can't be helped, some are for good things, and some are the result of underlying sin. How do we clear the hurdle of distraction when it comes to our intimate time with God and our quiet time with His Word?  How do we make sure our attention is focused on God and not something lesser? The Book of Hebrews has some answers!Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to check out everything Proverbs 9:10 on our website, www.proverbs910ministries.com! You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Rumble, YouTube, Twitter, Truth Social, and Gettr!

Lasting renewal begins when God's people encounter His Word with understanding, conviction, and obedience.

Our God is a God of order. Look at His creation. In our bodies, every heartbeat and breath works with a thousand other systems to maintain life in every fiber of our being. The chemical balance within the kidney is precisely controlled, the fluid pressure in every cell is maintained, and our sleep tonight will initiate a series of brainwaves that defy even the experts to explain their purpose, rhythm, and order. We are created in His image. We are called to be His reflection. On a regular basis, take time to create organization and order in your life. It is a Godly activity that reflects Him, His ways, and His world. It will increase your yield in your workplace, and in your everyday living, as His Word works in your life, today. Just remember, none of this is possible without a good night's sleep. 

Your marriage doesn't need another temporary fix. It needs a reboot at the heart level, the kind that happens when we stop making excuses, step into God's light, and let His Word tell the truth about us. We talk candidly about how sin we don't deal with, pride we don't name, and lies we quietly believe can overload the “hard drive” of our souls until we're tired, reactive, and stuck straddling the fence.We walk through a simple three-step process you can use anytime: reassess, remember, and remain. Psalm 119 shows us how to come to God with real requests, real need, and real expectancy, while Romans 7 puts language to the ongoing battle between the flesh and the Spirit. Remembering the cross changes what we want, not just what we know. It reshapes how we speak to our spouse, how we respond under stress, and how we move from self-rule to humility.Then we get practical about remaining. John 15 is clear: we cannot be “half connected” and expect lasting fruit. We share an everyday picture of what happens to a branch that's barely hanging on, and we apply it to Christian marriage, spiritual renewal, and daily rhythms in God's Word. We end by praying with David for what so many of us need: “Give me an undivided heart.” If this encouraged you, subscribe, share it with a friend who needs hope, and leave a review so more couples can find biblical marriage help.Support the showFor episode transcripts, click HERE.For more marriage encouragement, visit: www.VowsToKeep.com | V2K Blog | Marriage Counseling | Insta | FBApple Podcast listener? Would you consider leaving us a review, as this helps more couple's to find our resources?! Leave your review HERE.

Guided Question Do I truly know Jesus and experience His presence in my life, or am I simply trying to live by Christian rules without experiencing the new birth He came to give? Summary This episode explores Matthew 1:18–25 and the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ. Dr. Robert Lewis emphasizes that Jesus' birth is unique not simply because a baby was born, but because God Himself entered humanity. Matthew presents Jesus as both the Son of David, with a legitimate claim to the throne, and the divine Son of God, conceived by the Holy Spirit. The story begins with Mary and Joseph, whose response to God's extraordinary plan demonstrates remarkable submission. Mary does not understand how God's promise will be fulfilled, yet she responds, “Be it done to me according to thy word.” Joseph likewise obeys God despite the personal shame and potential consequences of taking Mary as his wife. Their lives demonstrate that God's greatest works are often entrusted to people who are humble and willing to submit to His truth. Dr. Lewis then emphasizes the importance of believing the virgin birth as a literal work of the Holy Spirit. He argues that Christianity cannot be separated from biblical revelation: religion without revelation leaves people with nothing more than subjective beliefs and human imagination. The sermon then turns to the name Emmanuel—“God with us.” Jesus did not merely come to point people toward God or give them a better moral code. He came to make a relationship with God possible. He is not merely a teacher of truth; He is the truth, and He calls people not simply to follow His teachings but to receive Him. Finally, Dr. Lewis explains that the birth of Jesus points toward an even greater miracle: the new birth. Jesus was born so that people could be spiritually reborn. Christianity is therefore not merely about keeping rules, attending church, or proving ourselves worthy before God. It is about receiving Christ, being forgiven of sin, and experiencing His presence within us. The message closes with a personal invitation to respond to Christ. Just as Mary and Joseph submitted themselves to God's Word without fully understanding what He was doing, listeners are challenged to surrender themselves to Christ, receive Him, and experience the new life He came to give. Outline 1. The Uniqueness of Jesus' Birth Matthew introduces Jesus' birth as an extraordinary beginning. Jesus is both the Son of David and the divine Son of God. His conception by the Holy Spirit makes His birth unlike any other. 2. Mary and Joseph: Submission to God Mary faces an impossible and potentially shameful situation. She responds with trust and submission to God's Word. Joseph obeys despite the personal cost and public consequences. Their humility makes them examples of responsive faith. 3. The Virgin Birth and Biblical Revelation Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit. The virgin birth is presented as a foundational truth of Christianity. Faith must be grounded in God's revelation rather than personal preference or imagination. 4. Jesus Came to Save from Sin Israel expected the Messiah to deliver them from Roman oppression. Jesus came to address the deeper problem: humanity's bondage to sin. True deliverance begins when we stop focusing on everyone else's problems and allow Christ to deal with our own sin. 5. Emmanuel: God With Us Isaiah's prophecy points forward to Jesus. Jesus is the greater fulfillment of “Emmanuel.” He does not merely point the way to God—He makes relationship with God possible. 6. The Greater Miracle: The New Birth Jesus' birth prepares the way for our spiritual rebirth. Christianity is more than morality, religious activity, or following rules. We must receive Christ and experience His indwelling presence. Jesus was born so that we might be born again. Key Takeaways God works through humble people who are willing to submit to His Word. Faith does not require us to understand everything before we obey. Jesus came to deliver us from sin, not merely from difficult circumstances. Jesus is Emmanuel—God with us. Christianity is about a relationship with Christ, not merely religious rules or moral behavior. The miracle of Jesus' birth points to the greater miracle of the new birth. Receiving Christ means surrendering ourselves to Him and trusting His promise to transform our lives. Scripture References Matthew 1:18–25 — Jesus is conceived by the Holy Spirit and born to Mary. Luke 1:26–38 — Mary receives God's announcement and submits to His Word. Isaiah 7:10–16 — The sign of Emmanuel points to a greater future fulfillment. Philippians 2:5–8 — Christ humbles Himself and takes on human form. Hebrews 1:1–3 — God speaks fully through His Son. John 3:1–8 — Jesus teaches the necessity of being born again. Matthew 1:21 — Jesus comes to save His people from their sins. Matthew 1:23 — Jesus is Emmanuel, “God with us.” Recorded 12.19.82

Does God still speak—and how can you know when it's really Him? In 1 Samuel 3, Samuel heard God calling his name but didn't recognize His voice. God didn't become frustrated or give up on him. He called again. Samuel's story reveals that hearing God isn't reserved for pastors or people who seem especially spiritual. God wants to speak to you personally, and you can learn to recognize His voice. If God has felt distant, prayer has seemed one-sided, or you're struggling to know what He wants you to do, this message will help you understand how God speaks through Scripture, how to position your heart to listen, and why obedience keeps the conversation open. God is not hiding from you. Keep returning to His Word, trust that He wants to speak, and be ready to answer what He says. Even when you miss His voice, He calls again. Everyone helping someone take steps to follow Christ. This is the vision of Journey Church, led by Pastor James Hilton, with multiple locations throughout Central Florida.  https://journeyconnect.org Website: https://journeyconnect.org Facebook: http://facebook.com/journeyconnect Instagram: https://instagram.com/journeyconnect/ To support Journey Church's mission and help us transform lives both locally and globally, visit: https://journeyconnect.org/giving If you're in the Daytona Beach area and want to learn more about our upcoming launch, go to https://journeyconnect.org/daytona 

“What is God's will for my life?” It's a serious question that is asked by believers of all ages facing all kinds of decisions and uncertainty. As Jill Briscoe explains, you cannot know the will of God until you find God and get to know Him personally—or at least slow down long enough for Him to find you!God does not intend for His will to be a mystery to us. In fact, He makes it perfectly clear in His Word. What can we learn from the stories of the Bible… from how Jesus handled certain situations? A great deal!Through this teaching, you'll learn how you can know God's will for your life and then begin to apply it in practical ways. Are you ready to surrender your plans if it means you will accomplish His? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1141/29?v=20251111

How do we know that we truly know Jesus? John points to the evidence of a changed life: we obey His Word and walk as Jesus walked. This isn't about perfection or earning God's love; it's about the ongoing direction of our lives. And when we fail, we don't run away from Jesus; we run to Him. He is our Advocate, whose grace restores us and empowers us to keep walking faithfully.

Join us as Pastor Byron Burrell brings us today's message. To learn more about NLC Greenbrier- TEXT "Greenbrier" TO: 88000 to connect with us!

As we look at the values that root us in who we are as a church, Surrendered Obedience means letting go of control and letting God take control. When life feels uncertain and the road ahead is confusing, the safest place for us to be is not in control but in a place of surrender. Real faith trusts God enough to obey Him, surrenders enough to let go, and believes God enough to expect Him to provide. In Genesis 22, God asked Abraham to do something that didn't make sense. Abraham's “yes” was already on the table. Surrendered obedience always comes before understanding. When God speaks, obey. Our part is to show up, take God at His Word, and follow Him one step at a time. Surrendered obedience isn't the absence of failures. It's choosing to trust God beyond our last mistake. What God wanted from Abraham was not his son but his surrender. What is it that God has asked you to do that you haven't done yet? Take the first step of obedience. Say, “God, here I am. Speak.” Whatever He says to you, do it.Check out our video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/awkL-0zuHg4Subscribe to our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/8wmeCwBf_zkLearn more about us at chestnutmountain.orgFollow us on Facebook & Instagram @chestnutmtn_

Archives August--God lavishly sows the seed of His Word. Responses vary.