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Today, Pastor Jack teaches that confusion can grow into doubt, and doubt makes us hesitate when God says go. But receiving His Word into our hearts builds a faith that overcomes the world.
(2 Timothy 2:14-15) Evangelist Scott Pauley concludes the series on current question and Bible answers with a rapid-fire Q&A installment through a wide variety of listener questions (including cremation, alien life, and more) while keeping the central focus on walking with God and faithfully studying His Word. (10152260626) Join Scott Pauley's study through Scripture this year. Find resources for every book of the Bible by Dr. Pauley and Enjoying the Journey at enjoyingthejourney.org/journey-through-scripture/. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. Explore now at EnjoyingTheJourney.org. Extend the Work Enjoying the Journey provides every resource for free worldwide. If you would like to help extend this Bible teaching, you may give at enjoyingthejourney.org/donations/
Martha and Mary both loved the Lord, but their actions revealed two very different priorities. Martha was busy serving, preparing, cleaning, and trying to please Jesus through activity. Mary, however, sat at His feet and listened to His Word. In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef reminds believers to beware of anything—even good things—that crowds the Lord out of our lives. Jesus gently corrected Martha because she was “worried and upset about many things,” while Mary had chosen what was better. The issue was not service itself, but preoccupation. Martha's anxiety came from being consumed with the temporary things of life instead of resting in the eternal value of God's Word and the presence of Christ. Dr. Youssef explains that anxiety often reveals where we are seeking security and peace apart from the Lord. C.S. Lewis observed that God designed the human soul to run on Himself—and that lasting happiness and peace cannot be found apart from Him. Like Martha, we may sincerely desire to please God while still stressing over unnecessary tasks, emotions, and expectations. But when Christ becomes the center of our lives, our priorities are reordered, and He fills us with His peace, assurance, and hope. Prayer: Father, pour Your peace into my heart and mind as I release the cares of this world and focus on You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Jesus: Know Him and Live, Part 1: LISTEN NOW 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 episode, Billy Epperhart shares his journey from a Southern Baptist background to experiencing the baptism of the Holy Spirit and discovering the life-changing power of God's grace. Through personal stories and spiritual insights, he explains how God used both His Word and real-life experiences to reveal the difference between striving in our own strength and trusting in His favor. Watch and learn more at: charisbiblecollege.org
What happens when we lose the fear of God and begin letting culture, emotions, and human opinions shape our decisions instead of God's Word? In Episode 8 of "Essentials in Leadership," Duane Sheriff teaches why the fear of the Lord is one of the most essential foundations for effective leadership and spiritual growth. The fear of God is not a tormenting fear rooted in anxiety, rejection, or punishment. It is a healthy, reverential awe that produces wisdom, righteous judgment, peace, and unwavering loyalty to God.Drawing from Hebrews, Proverbs, Isaiah, and 2 Peter, Duane explains how the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, understanding, and wisdom. Jesus Himself operated in the fear of the Lord, which enabled Him to render righteous judgments and remain faithful to the Father. When believers fear God, His Word becomes the final authority above culture, human reasoning, and personal feelings. This episode reveals how fearing God delivers us from the fear of man, strengthens our faith, and equips us to become effective leaders in every area of our lives.
Most Christians say they want to hear from God—but many struggle to consistently open His Word. In this episode, the pastors of Redeemer Bible Church discuss why your spiritual growth is directly connected to what you are feeding your mind and heart. They explore how Scripture shapes your desires, renews your thinking, exposes hidden sin, and helps you find lasting satisfaction in Christ rather than in the endless distractions of the world. You'll hear practical advice for building a Bible-reading habit, overcoming spiritual dryness, choosing a reading plan, and moving from viewing Scripture as a duty to seeing it as a privilege. Whether you're new to reading the Bible or have walked with Christ for years, this conversation will encourage you to delight in God's Word and pursue a deeper relationship with Him.
“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you.” That promise from James 1:5 is a powerful reminder that wisdom is not something we have to manufacture on our own. It is a gift from God, and He invites us to ask for it. When we think about financial decisions, we often turn first to budgets, spreadsheets, calculators, or professional advice. Those tools can be helpful, and wise counsel has an important place in biblical stewardship. But for followers of Christ, wisdom begins with prayer. Sharon Epps, President of Kingdom Advisors, FaithFi's parent organization, joined the show today to talk about inviting God into our financial lives and seeking His guidance with trust and humility. Prayer Reminds Us Whose Money It Is When people think about managing money, prayer may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But Sharon says it should be central to the way believers make financial decisions because we are not ultimately managing our own resources. We are managing God's. She offered a simple illustration: imagine being asked to care for someone else's home while they were away on an extended trip. Would you let them leave without asking for specific instructions about how they wanted things handled? Of course not. In the same way, because everything we have belongs to God, we should want His instruction for how to steward it. Prayer reminds us that we do not have to carry financial decisions alone or rely only on our own understanding. It helps us approach money with dependence, trust, and humility. Prayer also shifts our posture. Instead of trying to control every outcome, we begin to ask what faithfulness looks like with what God has entrusted to us. The Most Powerful Question We Can Ask So what does this look like in everyday life? Sharon says it starts by bringing financial decisions to the Lord before we act. Whether we are deciding how to spend, save, give, invest, or pursue work, prayer gives us the opportunity to seek God's wisdom first. Our friend and mentor Ron Blue has often said that one of the most powerful questions we can ask is: God, what would You have me do with Your money? That question changes everything. It reminds us that money is not merely a tool for personal comfort or security. It is a resource entrusted to us by God for His purposes. Sharon shared a personal example from when she and her husband were praying about their oldest daughter's college tuition. They had not saved enough to pay for her education in full, and they were committed to avoiding debt. As they prayed, God brought something to mind: He had already provided what they needed, but they had mentally set those funds aside for another purpose. Once Sharon and her husband sat down and talked it through, they realized God had shown them an option they had never considered. Prayer did not simply give them peace; it gave them perspective. That is one of the gifts of prayer. Over time, it shapes our desires, priorities, and motives. It trains us to seek God first rather than simply react in the moment. Learning What Is Enough One of the great financial questions every believer must wrestle with is, “How much is enough?” Our culture constantly pushes us to want more. More income. More comfort. More security. More possessions. But Scripture points us toward contentment. Paul writes in Philippians 4:11, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.” That word learned is important. Contentment does not come naturally. It is formed in us as we walk with Christ and learn to trust Him more deeply. Prayer helps us bring our desires honestly before the Lord. It gives us space to ask whether our financial choices are being driven by needs, wants, fear, comparison, or trust. Sharon pointed to David's prayer in Psalm 139:23-24: “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” That is a fitting prayer for our financial lives as well. We can ask the Lord to search our hearts, reveal our motives, and lead us toward a healthier understanding of what enough really is. And when we become more content with God's provision, we are often freed to become more generous. When the Next Step Is Unclear Many people face financial decisions that feel overwhelming. A career change. A major purchase. A giving decision. A medical bill. A retirement question. A move. A season of uncertainty. When the path is not clear, Sharon's counsel is simple: turn to prayer before you turn to spreadsheets. That does not mean spreadsheets are unimportant. It means they should not be our first refuge. Before we run the numbers, we should ask God for wisdom. We should also seek wise counsel from trusted believers who share our commitment to biblical stewardship. God often guides us through His Word, His Spirit, and His people. And even when the way forward is not perfectly clear, we can trust that God is faithful to guide His people as they seek Him. Financial Decisions as Acts of Trust Prayer turns financial decisions into opportunities to trust God more deeply. It reminds us that God owns it all. It invites Him into the details of our daily lives. It exposes our motives and reshapes our desires. It helps us move from fear to faithfulness, from control to stewardship, and from self-reliance to dependence on the Lord. The next time you face a financial decision, begin with this simple prayer: God, what would You have me do with Your money? And then listen with humility, seek wise counsel, and trust that your generous God delights to give wisdom to those who ask. By the way, finding an advisor who shares your faith and values does not have to be difficult. Visit FindaCKA.com, answer a few questions about what you're looking for, and you'll receive a list of Certified Kingdom Advisors® in your area who can help you take the next step on your stewardship journey. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: We sold our old house after buying a new one, so we now have a lump sum in savings. We planned to use most of it to recast the new mortgage and lower our payment, but we're wondering whether we should keep some in savings or invest part of it. How can we steward this money wisely? My 23-year-old granddaughter struggles to manage money. Can you recommend a budgeting plan, tool, or app that could help her? I'm 70 and have heard you talk about Qualified Charitable Distributions. What exactly is a QCD, and can I use it for my tithes? My husband and I are nearing 65. In retirement, we expect $5,000–$6,000 a month in income, a paid-off home, about $80,000 in emergency cash, and another $100,000–$200,000 to invest, plus around $50,000 already in Nasdaq and S&P 500 stocks. What conservative investment options should we consider so we can draw from that money monthly if needed, especially from a Christian perspective? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Faith Comes from HEARING | Episode #214In Episode #214 of the Way of the Bible podcast, we continue our study of Jesus' concluding illustration in the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on the opening words of Matthew 7:24: “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice...” The emphasis of this episode is on one crucial word: hears. Jesus teaches that hearing His words is the beginning of a life built upon a solid foundation. Yet throughout Scripture, we see that people can hear the same message and respond very differently. Why is that?The episode explores the distinction between physical hearing and spiritual hearing. Physical hearing involves receiving sounds through our ears, but spiritual hearing involves the heart. Jesus repeatedly emphasized that understanding and responding to God's Word is ultimately a matter of the heart's condition. To illustrate this truth, we examine Jesus' explanation of the Parable of the Sower in Luke 8. The seed is the Word of God, but the condition of the soil determines the outcome. Some hear and quickly lose the message. Others receive it temporarily but fall away under pressure. Some become distracted by life's worries and pleasures. Only the good soil receives, retains, and produces fruit. This leads to a deeper question: what makes a heart capable of receiving God's Word? Scripture answers through the prophets Jeremiah and Ezekiel. Jeremiah describes the human heart as deceitful and beyond cure, while Ezekiel records God's promise to remove hearts of stone and replace them with hearts of flesh. God promises to place His Spirit within His people, enabling them to follow His ways. The episode then connects these promises to the ministry of Jesus and the work of the Holy Spirit. Through Christ, God provides cleansing, renewal, and the gift of His Spirit, making genuine faith possible. Finally, we arrive at Romans 10:17: “Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” Faith is not merely intellectual agreement. It is the response of a transformed heart that hears the Gospel, believes that Jesus Christ is risen from the dead, and responds in repentance and surrender. The episode concludes with a challenge. Jesus is still speaking through His Word today. Some hear and obey. Others hear and remain unchanged. The difference lies not in the message but in the condition of the heart. The question each listener must answer is simple:Do I have ears to hear?
How wonderful that God has given HIS Word that we may know His will for our lives. Let’s always see what God has that we may “grow thereby.”
A SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM STEPHANIE:I want to share a special invitation with you. You may have heard that I will be releasing my first book with IVP on July 28, 2026. It's a big deal and I am so overwhelmed with God' goodness in allowing me to share such an essential message about delighting in Him as the true essential foundation for all our spiritual growth and maturing. Truly, when we delight in the Lord, He promises to give us the desires of our hearts – namely, more of Himself!So, here's the invitation. If you feel this message is indeed important, and you know people – including yourself perhaps – who need to be encouraged to awaken and cultivate their delight in God, would you consider joining my book launch team? It's a great and super easy way to share the good news of God's love for us in Christ, Jesus, our Lord.**If you're interested, please go to gospelspice.com/awakendelight and find the section about joining the launch team, or email me at contact@gospelspice.com **Together, let's encourage everyone we know with the wonderful news that, in Christ, God delights in us and invites us to delight in Him!Stephanie welcomes her dear friend Erica Wiggenhorn for a transparent, encouraging conversation about what it means to delight in God. Drawing from personal experiences, Scripture, and practical examples, they explore how all believers can experience and sustain joy in the Lord—even through difficult seasons.Stephanie, when pondering this conversation, took away these key points to remember:Delight is not limited to profound spiritual moments; it can be awakened in ordinary, beautiful encounters with God's world.Delight is sometimes borrowed from others, shared through community, creativity, and kindness to oneself during dry seasons.God uses even our hardest experiences as a foundation for authentic delight and hope, especially as we support each other.Getting the Word into us daily is not just a duty—it's the ongoing source of delight and transformation.Delight is rooted not in our performance but in Christ's finished work and the Father's unchanging love.Here's more from this conversation:Delighting in God doesn't require deep theological expertise or perfection. Instead, it's woven into everyday life and accessible to everyone. Erica describes experiences from her childhood at the beach—watching children squeal with joy as they run into the waves, or observing baby whales playing for the first time—highlighting how witnessing God's creation leads her heart to delight in Him.Life isn't always easy. Erica is honest about facing times when delight in God seems distant—whether due to discouragement, struggles, or the pressures of daily life. She insists it's a common, human experience and gives listeners permission to acknowledge seasons where faith feels routine or strained. She offers three practical helps for regaining delight:Music – Worship songs often “tear down the walls” of her heart and renew her connection with God.Movement – Getting outside and moving, especially in sunshine, lifts her spirit.Community – Sharing experiences with others, and especially seeing God through the delight in someone else's eyes, reignites her own joy.Erica shares personally about parenting wayward children and organizing resources for others in similar struggles. She teaches that as we surrender our pain to God, He uses it for deeper purpose—serving others and discovering fresh delight through His redeeming work. Community and expectancy in God's goodness anchor us during heartbreak. For more details about the MOMentum conference, see below.Scripture is the chief wellspring of delight. We get to know God, experience His love, and gain new joy through His Word. Erica encourages varied approaches—listening to the Bible, studying alone or with others, or combining the Word with creative activities. The important thing is to absorb Scripture in the way that fits how God has wired you.In Isaiah 61:10, God dresses us in garments of salvation as a beloved bride. Erica reminds listeners that while we may struggle with shame or self-critique, God sees us beautifully in Christ. We don't earn His delight; we receive it as a gift by simply approaching Him.If you struggle to believe God delights in you, print a picture of a radiant bride and declare, “This is me in the eyes of my King.” Ask Him for faith to accept His joy over you.MORE ABOUT THE MOMENTUM CONFERENCE, JANUARY 29-31 2027, PHOENIX, AZYour child is going their own way, in a direction you would never choose, leading to disruption and separation in your relationship.But what if you found a new pathway for connection, where you could both move forward, together?The Momentum Conference provides a safe place to rest, remember you're not alone and receive tools and perspective empowering you to stand strong in faith and pursue healthy connection with your child.God is for you, for your family — and together we can cling to His promises and find hope.Details and tickets at https://ericawiggenhorn.com/momentum/ What is the Momentum Conference?Momentum is a Friday night through Sunday morning getaway with a balance of biblical teaching, practical help, group connection and time to pursue individual rest.The weekend schedule has been designed to lavish love, impart resources and provide hope to moms who are walking a hard road with their teens, young adult, or adult children.Freedom to pursue preferential activities provided by the resort promises a time of rejuvenation as well as a mental, emotional and spiritual reset."Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn't really work, or it's not really possible here on earth.In Awaken Delight, Stephanie Rousselle invites you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight — not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is.Delight in God isn't a mood to manufacture; it's a relationship to receive.Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you'll learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable.Delighting in God isn't sentimental optimism. It's deeply rooted in Christ, Jesus.It's the quiet revolution that reshapes how we endure pain, love others, and understand our own heart.Awaken Delight is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued and are ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JKind words from Jennifer Rothschild, Bible teacher, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, Founder, Fresh Grounded Faith:“Stephanie helps us awaken to and experience true delight. It is a rich mix of God's delight in you and your delight in him. This is the life you were made for, the life your soul deeply longs for. So, the table is set. Pull up a chair and let your heart sit alongside Stephanie. As your delight in God wakes up and becomes fully realized, you'll find a satisfaction in Christ that makes you want more and more.”Kind words from Amanda Jenkins, Lead creator of THE CHOSEN's literary content"I have yet to meet another person quite as eager to intimately know Jesus as Stephanie is. Her enthusiasm for the beauty found inside a thriving relationship with her Savior is downright contagious. Indeed, Stephanie's joy and faith and commitment to growth—along with her love for really good food!—will implant themselves in the hearts of readers. Lucky readers."Kind words from Os Guinness, Theologian, Social critic, Author, The Call "Stephanie addresses one of the greatest needs of Christians today. Knowing God is not knowing about God, but knowing Him genuinely and with desire and delight. She does so practically and helpfully, and in a style that sparkles with a verve and joy that is distinctively French."Kind words from Pippa Gumbel, Pioneer, The Alpha Course; Author, The Bible in one year with husband Nicky"Stephanie's love of God is inspiring and infectious. Her book is an invitation to share in that delight and to come to know God in new and wonderful ways." More at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Purchase the book, "Awaken Delight" by Stephanie Rousselle: https://a.co/d/0bqhUb5JSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
You are at peace. Why? Because you have believed God and His Word and in doing that, you have put the control of the situation into His wonderful hands. Broadcast #7503To help support this podcast, please visit walkwiththeking.org/donate and select "Podcast" from the dropdown menuA transcript of this broadcast is available on our website here. To hear more from Bob Cook, you can find Walk With The King on Facebook or Instagram.
Life can feel a lot like hiking some of the narrow and rugged trails here in Hawaiʻi. Paths that wind along steep ridges and sharp drop-offs, where one wrong move could mean injury or certain death. On our own, it is easy to lose our footing and to fall on one side to the valley of lawlessness or on the other side to self-righteousness. But God, through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, gave us a new way forward. And that way is to walk by faith in His righteousness. The Law shows us the trail we cannot perfectly walk on our own. But God's Word is like a trusted trail guide, revealing His love, His holiness, and our deep need for His grace. As we walk with and follow Him, we begin to see that every command, every warning, and every promise is meant to keep us on the path that leads to life and to point us back to Jesus, the One who fulfills it all. Whether you're new to faith, wrestling with questions, or seeking to grow deeper in your walk with Jesus, Sterling Higa leaves us with a challenge and hope. Join us as we learn what it means to trust Christ as our righteousness, follow Him step by step through the power of the Holy Spirit, and lovingly guard and share the truth of His Word with those around us.
Let's dive into the poetry and wisdom genre of the Bible! Today we recap Psalms 1-41 a.k.a. Book 1. David wrote all but 2 of this group, most are prayers of distress or statements of confidence in God. David reminds us in Psalm 1 to delight in the law of the Lord. The man who meditates on His law day and night will be like a tree planted by the water. What a robust visual!As we've mentioned before our playlist matters. Remember the adage, GIGO (garbage in, garbage out), let's flip that and put wisdom in and pray that wisdom comes out.David wrote that we should “serve the Lord with fear' Psalm 2, but we do NOT need to fear evil (Psalm 23) because God is with us. What a powerful contrast!Psalm 19:7-11 expresses the cause and effects of God's law! Read those verses and notice the outcomes of being true to God and His Word. Psalm 34:5 describes those who look to God as being radiant. David trusted God through his triumphs and his trials, what a great example of how situations should not be the focus. Our focus should be on seeking to please God!Try sprinkling a Psalm in your daily Bible reading. Share which one you connect with the most at this season in your life. What a blessing you are, dear listener! May we grow together as we connect to reflect!
What does real faith look like, and how do we walk in it every day?In this message, we dive deeper into what faith is, how it comes, and why it must be released in order to produce results in our lives. Discover the two pillars that support biblical faith: knowing God's promises and trusting God's character. When we understand both, we can stand confidently on His Word regardless of what circumstances may say.Key points:• How faith comes by hearing and receiving God's Word• Why God's character is the foundation of every promise• The importance of holding fast to your confession of faith• What it means to release your faith through words and actions• How to feed on the faithfulness of God in every season• Why unanswered prayers should lead us to seek greater understanding, not question God's goodnessWhether you're believing God for healing, provision, protection, or breakthrough, this message will encourage you to trust His faithfulness and align your life with His Word. Support the show
Biblical Success and Prosperity Program: For Zion's Sake Hosts: Shelly and June Volk Episode Description When you hear the words "success" or "prosperity," what is your very first thought? For most of us, our minds instantly drift to financial security, material possessions, prestigious career titles, and what the world calls "the good life." But as believers, we are called to look at things through a vastly different lens. In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly and June Volk break down the stark contrast between secular achievement and true, biblical prosperity. Pulling from foundational scriptures in the Old and New Testaments, they remind us that God's definitions are uniquely His own. Discover how spiritual prosperity isn't about the size of your bank account, but about the posture of your heart—delighting in God's instruction, meditating on His Word day and night, and having the courage to step out in radical faith. Key Scripture & Verses Covered The Divine Lens: Isaiah 55:8–9 – Setting the stage with a vital reminder that God's thoughts are not our thoughts, and His ways are infinitely higher than ours. The Planted Tree: Psalm 1:1–3 – Looking at the ultimate recipe for prosperity: refusing to walk in the counsel of the wicked, delighting purely in the law of the Lord, and becoming like a tree firmly planted by streams of water. David's Charge to Solomon: 1 Kings 2:3 – Reviewing King David's dying words to his son, instructing him to walk in God's ways and keep His statutes so that he may succeed wherever he turns. The Covenant of Blessing: Deuteronomy 29:9 – Moses' clear message to the people of Israel to keep and do the words of the covenant in order to prosper in all things. Joshua's Key to Success: Joshua 1:1–8 – Unpacking the only time the word "success" appears in the King James Version of the Bible. God commands Joshua to be strong and very courageous, promising that meditation and obedience to the Book of the Law are what make a person's way truly prosperous. Connect with For Zion's Sake Website: Visit shellyandjunevolk.com to find resources, listen to more broadcasts, and connect with the ministry. Mailing Address: If you would like to get in touch or support the program, write to P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Sponsorship: This episode is proudly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. https://shellyandjunevolk.com/Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What happens when the leader you've relied on is suddenly gone? That moment reveals something surprising about God: His mission never dies with the man. This sermon speaks directly to the questions we face in real life: how to handle changes in Leadership stay unified when things shift, and keep following God without getting stuck looking backward. You'll discover why God's plan comes with clear instructions: stand strong, stay on His path, and remain rooted in His Word. It's not about human strength or strategy; it's about stewarding what God has already promised. Ready to see how this ancient story speaks to your next step? Hit play and let the message challenge and encourage you right where you are.
End the Frustration in Your Walk with God! God is very specific in His Word about what He has done and will do. If it's in His Word, you can take it to the bank and be sure about it. Find out more on this episode of Fight To Win with Pastor Kurt Owen.Tactical Tip: Many of our videos contain a short section we call Tactical Tips. Most offer ways to improve personal safety and security.Request the Free Offer: https://www.fighttowin.tvLearn More, Register for Events & Donate:https://www.kurtowen.com/***UPDATED TEXT TO GIVE INFORMATION***Text GIVEKOM to 44321Prefer to Watch the Video?https://youtu.be/C6d_SN44yaQBecome a supporter of this podcasthttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fight-to-win-tv-with-kurt-owen--5638799/support.
Most of us know that we should pray but struggle with how to pray. In this conversation with Christina and her pastor, Dr. Norman Peart you learn about the recipe for prayer that Jesus gives His followers and why each step is essential to a well-balanced prayer life.Connect with Dr. Norman Peart: https://normanpeart.com/Find his book "Jesus' Prayer Recipe:: https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Prayer-Recipe-R-C-H/dp/1611534453Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:DOWNLOAD CHRISTINA'S FREE PRAYER GUIDE:Download Christina's Free 5 Day Prayer Guide to help you put into practice the powerful habit of prayer: https://www.subscribepage.com/prayerguideCONNECT WITH CHRISTINA: https://www.belovedwomen.orghttps://www.youtube.com/c/BelovedwomenOrg BECOME A BELOVED WOMEN MEMBER:Join Christina for weekly video Bible studies, access to the complete Beloved Women video library of Bible study series, and exclusive content and bonuses. Ready to ignite your passion for God's truth, stay consistent in His Word, and experience the spiritual growth you need to maintain your full but blessed life? Become a Beloved Women member today!: https://www.belovedwomen.org/join/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Charles Spurgeon once told the story of a ship captain whose wife panicked during a violent storm. When the captain pointed a sword toward her chest, she laughed—because she trusted the hand that held it. His reply revealed the heart of faith: “Neither am I afraid of a storm in the hand of my heavenly Father.” In this episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef points believers to the security found in God's sovereign care. Fear is real—even the apostle Paul admitted to “fears within” while facing conflict, hardship, and rejection. Yet Paul also knew the comfort of God, who strengthens the downcast and often refreshes His people through His Word, His presence, and the encouragement of faithful friends. When fear rises, the answer is not denial or panic—it is trust. God has not given His children a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control. His love brings hope to the heart, His presence steadies the soul, and His salvation becomes the rock beneath our feet. No matter how fierce the storm, the believer can rest in this Truth: the storm is never outside the hand of the Father. Prayer: Lord Jesus, I need Your words of encouragement today. The world is pressing in on me, but I know You are in total control. I thank You that Your perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18). Help me to comfort others with the comfort I receive from You in this season. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down” (Psalm 145:14). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Never Give Up, Standing for the Gospel: WATCH NOW | LISTEN NOW 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.
Carson and Justin sit down with Keith Bolles and Butch Hodge to discuss what their journey of making disciples has looked like as they have walked it out together. Keith shares how he came to realize that his own way was no longer working and how embracing accountability transformed his relationship with God, leading him to abide more deeply in His Word. Butch reflects on more than 40 years of ministry and the joy of seeing firsthand that Jesus' model of disciple-making truly works.From Keith inviting Butch into his life to be discipled, to now partnering together in leading and making disciples, their story is a testimony to the power of intentional relationships, accountability, and obedience to Christ's command to make disciples.
Heaven is Shaking the Bear Iran in Prophecy Crumbling Bear Walls Continued … Good news! Transcripts of Heaven Shaking the Bear are still coming thanks to a volunteer. Click here to view Transcript 1. Click here to view Transcript 2. Click here to view Transcript 3. Click here to view Transcript 4. Click here to view Transcript 5. Click here to view Transcript 6. Click here to view Transcript 7. Click here to view Transcript 8. Click here to view Transcript 9. Click here to view Transcript 10. Click here to view Transcript 11. Click here to view Transcript 12. Click here to view Transcript 13. Click here to view Transcript 14. Click here to view Transcript 15. There is a Heaven Shaking the Bear playlist to make it easier to find the videos. Click if you missed past livestreams: Heaven is Shaking the Bear Playlist In the next installment of Heaven Shaking the Persian Bear, we’ll continue where we left off last week and take a final look at another Bear king of the East drawn into the river as well as the cost of the repairs needed to break the walls of the beast kingdoms. Please join us. Shabbat Shalom! YouTube livestream at 4:00 pm Eastern on Shabbat News, news, news… Although we have over 1,000 videos on YouTube, recent shenanigans with other “conservative” ministries and news outlets have resulted in removal of channels. We have backed up most of our videos just in case, and the more so since we embarked on Heaven Shaking the Persian Bear. We pray this series will be secreted in an ark for those earnestly seeking The Holy One and His Word for today. Should our YouTube channel ever be suspended, you can continue on another platform. Scroll to the bottom of the page to click on links to other platforms where you can find us, like Podbean, Substack, Odysee, and Hebrew Nation Radio. The website tab for the Arava articles has been improved! Please SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter to get new teachings.
Have you maintained a faithful, straight walk in Torah? Or have you gotten “off the path” a little or a lot? Do you sense a call to return to the path, to Yahweh? Taking us to Jeremiah 29:12, Rabbi Steve Berkson points out Yahweh's pattern of behavior toward His people. When He needs to correct covenant behavior, He starts with small, subtle nudges and then uses more severe measures to get our attention. If He determines that we are not listening or responding, we will be turned loose to “play with the pigs” and, hopefully, come to ourselves and return to Him and the Covenant. • What's the first thing one should do when returning to Yahweh? • What is “hedging an apology”? • What does it mean not to seek Yahweh with all your heart? In Isaiah 55:6, two things are mentioned – seeking Yahweh while He can still be found and calling on Him while He is near. • What causes Him not to be near? What separates you from Him and creates distance? • Why do we not fully understand and accept His ways? • What are 3 things that will forever be in the Kingdom of Elohim? From there, Rabbi Berkson takes us to Lamentations chapters 3 and 5, where we see the formula for a prayer of repentance. • Have you ever been contrary to the Covenant out of rebellion? • What does “renew our days as of old” mean? Then we hop back to Jeremiah 6:8-17, where we see that the Torah is much more than just “The Law”; it is for our instruction. Yahweh wants us to be ‘instructed' by Him. • How can our ears be “uncircumcised”? • Why does Yahweh want to see us walk out His instructions? • What is “greedy for gain”? Verse-by-verse and step-by-step, Rabbi Steve Berkson takes us on a journey of discovery, learning how to covenant with our Creator and Father, which, from time to time, requires us to turn around and return to His Word so that we can have a sure entrance into His Kingdom. https://mtoi.org The MTOI App https://mtoi.org/download-the-mtoi-app https://www.facebook.com/mtoiworldwide https://www.instagram.com/mtoi_worldwide admin@mtoi.org (423) 250-3020 Join us LIVE (all times Eastern): • Torah Study, Fridays 7:30 pm • Shabbat Service, Saturdays 1:15 pm Streaming available on YouTube, Rumble, MTOI App, and mtoi.org
We live in a culture that places a high value on physical fitness, health, and self-improvement - especially true in Scottsdale! From gym memberships to training programs and nutrition plans, people understand that growth requires intentional effort. In this Sunday's passage, Paul uses that same imagery to teach us an important truth: spiritual maturity does not happen by accident. We'll see that before believers can be trained for Godliness, they must first be nourished by the truth of God's Word. Paul reminds Timothy to reject false teaching and feed himself on sound doctrine. Just as an athlete needs proper nutrition before entering the gym, Christians need the steady nourishment of Scripture if they are going to grow in faith, obedience, and Christlike character. Godliness does not happen by accident. We'll also discover why the pursuit of Godliness is worth the effort. While physical training has some value for this life, godliness holds promise for both the present life and the life to come. God has not left us alone in this pursuit. He has given us His Word, His Spirit, and His people to equip us for spiritual growth. I'm looking forward to discovering how we can make use of these gifts and learn what it means to train for a life that bears eternal fruit.
If we are open to improve, the Scriptures will guide us and God's family will help by providing the example and godly reproof and correction as needed. There are two types of mourning or shame; (1) Godly and healthy, and (2) Worldly and toxic. The first inspires change and the second causes resentments, guilt, condemnation and escapism. 2 Timothy 3:15-17 doctrine – reproof – correction Proverbs 12:1; 15:10 the person who hates reproof is stupid Matthew 19:16-22 the rich man was not open to improve 1 Kings 12:1-19 Rehoboam did not receive wise counsel 2 Corinthians 7:8-11 the Corinthians received reproof and correction and changed. Right sorrow can cause transformation and change. Two kinds of sorrow – (1) Godly sorrow causes godly change and (2) Worldly sorrow causes guilt, isolation, condemnation and usually escapism. Biblical education and godly community are important to develop conscience and character. 1 Corinthians 6:2, 3, 9, 15, 16 Paul taught them during the 18 months he was with them so why the negative lifestyle change? The culture of Corinth continued to exert a strong influence on the believers. Rather than transforming their society, many of the saints were being shaped by it. The values, practices, and attitudes of the surrounding pagan culture had begun to infiltrate the church, producing the very problems that Paul was compelled to confront in his letter. How do we help others to change? Two kinds of shame – toxic and healthy 1 Corinthians 1:1-9 he built them up, did not belittle, tear down, reject; rather he loved them and reminded them of who they really are in Christ. Luke 10:17-24 Jesus is the example Luke 10:38-42 Martha, Martha Hebrews 10:22-25 we need the word and each other If we are open to improve, God will help through His Word and people. Rev. Vince uses the Bible version NASB-95The post Transformation 4: Openness to Improve first appeared on Living Hope.
Summary Dr. Michael Easley continues his study through Ephesians by examining Paul's command to "walk away" from the old life. While believers are called to walk worthy of their calling in Christ, they are also called to leave behind the mindset and lifestyle that once defined them. Paul reminds the Ephesian believers—and every Christian—that life apart from Christ is marked by darkened understanding, spiritual ignorance, hardened hearts, and an increasing callousness toward sin. Rather than simply modifying behavior, the Christian life requires a transformed mind through the power of the Holy Spirit. No amount of willpower can produce lasting spiritual change. Only God's Spirit, working through His Word, can renew believers from the inside out. Easley explains that sin is always deceptive, promising satisfaction while leaving people trapped in an endless cycle of craving more. Whether through lust, greed, addiction, or selfish ambition, sin never delivers what it promises. The good news is that believers are no longer defined by who they once were. Because of Christ, they have learned a new way of living. Paul urges Christians to lay aside the old self, renew the spirit of their minds, and put on the new self created in God's righteousness and holiness. Remembering where we've come from should never produce shame, but gratitude that Christ has completely transformed our identity. Christians are called not only to walk worthy of Christ but also to walk away from the sinful life they once lived. Spiritual transformation begins with a renewed mindset, not merely improved behavior. A hardened and calloused heart slowly loses sensitivity to God's truth and conviction. Sin always promises satisfaction but creates an insatiable appetite that only leads to deeper bondage. The Holy Spirit—not human determination—is the source of lasting spiritual change. Because believers have put off the old self and put on the new, they can live in righteousness, holiness, and freedom through Christ. To read Ephesians, click here. Click here for other Michael Easley Sermons. Takeaways
Biblical Success and Prosperity Program: For Zion's Sake Hosts: Shelly and June Volk Episode Description When you hear the words "success" or "prosperity," what is your very first thought? For most of us, our minds instantly drift to financial security, material possessions, prestigious career titles, and what the world calls "the good life." But as believers, we are called to look at things through a vastly different lens. In this episode of For Zion's Sake, hosts Shelly and June Volk break down the stark contrast between secular achievement and true, biblical prosperity. Pulling from foundational scriptures in the Old and New Testaments, they remind us that God's definitions are uniquely His own. Discover how spiritual prosperity isn't about the size of your bank account, but about the posture of your heart—delighting in God's instruction, meditating on His Word day and night, and having the courage to step out in radical faith. Key Scripture & Verses Covered The Divine Lens: Isaiah 55:8–9 – Setting the stage with a vital reminder that God's thoughts are not our thoughts, and His ways are infinitely higher than ours. The Planted Tree: Psalm 1:1–3 – Looking at the ultimate recipe for prosperity: refusing to walk in the counsel of the wicked, delighting purely in the law of the Lord, and becoming like a tree firmly planted by streams of water. David's Charge to Solomon: 1 Kings 2:3 – Reviewing King David's dying words to his son, instructing him to walk in God's ways and keep His statutes so that he may succeed wherever he turns. The Covenant of Blessing: Deuteronomy 29:9 – Moses' clear message to the people of Israel to keep and do the words of the covenant in order to prosper in all things. Joshua's Key to Success: Joshua 1:1–8 – Unpacking the only time the word "success" appears in the King James Version of the Bible. God commands Joshua to be strong and very courageous, promising that meditation and obedience to the Book of the Law are what make a person's way truly prosperous. Connect with For Zion's Sake Website: Visit shellyandjunevolk.com to find resources, listen to more broadcasts, and connect with the ministry. Mailing Address: If you would like to get in touch or support the program, write to P.O. Box 244, Kannapolis, NC 28082. Sponsorship: This episode is proudly sponsored by the Psalm 127 Fund. Shelly has served the body of Christ as a Pastor for over 35 years. He is a bible teacher and conference speaker on the subjects of The Kingdom of God, The Mystery of Israel & The Church and for God’s people to be prepared in their hearts for the end of this age. https://shellyandjunevolk.com/Support the show: https://shellyandjunevolk.com/product/partner-with-us-psalm-127-fund/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cliff and Luke broadcast live from Hume Lake as Sunrise's campers are experiencing God's creation, His Word, and a lot of fun happening all at once.Watch on YouTube: youtube.com/sunrisecommunitychurchWatch live on Mondays at 10am: www.facebook.com/sunrisecommunityonline/liveSong: Fredji - Happy Life (Vlog No Copyright Music)Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.Video Link: https://youtu.be/KzQiRABVARk
Lutheran Preaching and Teaching from St. John Random Lake, Wisconsin
The religious men accused Jesus—“This Man receives sinners and eats with them”—and He took it up as His glory, answering with the lost sheep and the lost coin. The affliction that sweeps through your life is not a club driving you out but a broom sweeping you home: His pursuit, not your punishment. He lights the lamp of His Word, finds the worn coin that still bears His image, lays the sheep on His own shoulders rejoicing, and carries you to the rail. You came in a lost coin; you go out treasure in the King's own hand.
God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him. I first read those words more than twenty years ago in John Pipers The Pleasures of God. Second only to the Bible, that book has had a profound impact on my life. I have owned several copies over the years; my first copy had to be replaced because I wore it out, and the copy on my shelf today is well marked. To give you a sense of why Pipers book means so much to me, let me read something I underlined from his chapter, The Pleasure of God in His Creation: What is the universe but the lavish demonstration of the incredible, incomparable, unimaginable exuberance and wisdom and power and greatness of God! What a God he must be! In that book, Piper says this about prayer: God is the kind of God who delights most deeply not in making demands but in meeting needs. Prayer is his delight because prayer shows the far reaches of our poverty and the full riches of his grace. Then he gives an image for prayer that has stayed with me. He says, Prayer is the walkie-talkie on the battlefield of the world. It is not a domestic intercom to increase the comforts of the saints, but a wartime means of calling upon God for courage, protection, provision, reinforcements, and the advance of His Word. It is not that I didnt believe Pipers words then; it is that prayer was not part of the culture of my heart in the same way that it is now. My prayer is that what we learn from Revelation 8:15 will help us see prayer the way heaven sees it. Last week, we saw that John heard the number of Gods sealed people144,000 from the tribes of Israelbut when he looked, he saw a great multitude no one could number from every nation, tribe, people, and language. I do not believe these are two different peoples of God, but Jews and Gentiles gathered into one redeemed people through Israels Messiah, the Lamb who purchased people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. We also saw that the list of the 144,000 has the feel of a military census, like Numbers 1, where Israel was counted by tribe according to the men able to go to war. But Revelation 7 begins with Judah, because from Judah came the Lion who is also the Lamb. In other words, Revelation 7 gives us a symbolic picture of the people of God gathered, sealed, and ordered around the conquering Lamb. Whatever you believe about the 144,000, their commitment and loyalty to the Lamb is a picture of discipleship and abiding in Jesus. Revelation 14:4 says, It is these who follow the Lamb wherever he goes. They are not pictured as passive spectators. They are sealed saints who live with a wartime ethic. Now, when we come to Revelation 8:15, there is a dramatic pause of silence. At the center of that silence stands an angel at the altar with a golden censer. Revelation has already linked incense with prayer. In Revelation 5:8, the elders held golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. In Revelation 6, the martyred saints cried out beneath the altar, O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long? Now, in Revelation 8, the prayers of all the saints rise before God with the smoke of the incense. Then the angel takes fire from the altar, fills the censer, and throws it to the earth. The prayers of the saints rise before the throne, and the fire of Gods judgment falls upon the earth. The Silence Before the Throne of God Notice what precedes the silence in heaven. Remember what I said previously: if the six seals describe what is happening on the world stage in Gods theater, then Revelation 7 shows us what is happening behind the curtain during the first six seals. Notice the language used in Revelation 7:1517: Therefore they are before the throne of God,and serve him day and night in his temple;and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence.They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore;the sun shall not strike them, nor any scorching heat.For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd,and he will guide them to springs of living water,and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Remember whose vision this is. It is Johns vision. The John who wrote these words in our Bibles is the same John who heard Jesus say, If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also (John 12:26). To the hungry and thirsty, John heard Jesus say, I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst (John 6:35). Regarding our need for a shepherd, John heard Jesus say, I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep (John 10:11). What is my point? The language used to describe Johns vision of the multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language before the throne is the language of abiding brought to its final fulfillment. Revelation 7:1517 shows us the completed experience of abiding in Christ and where it ultimately leads: Those who abide in Jesus now, will dwell before God then. Those who come to Jesus as the Bread of Life now, will hunger no more then. Those who drink from Jesus as the fountain of living water now, will thirst no more then. Those who follow Jesus as the Good Shepherd now, will be guided by the Lamb forever then. To be a Christian is to be a person who abides in Jesus. Jesus never made this optional. If you are struggling to see the connection, let me share what Jesus said in John 15: I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. (vv. 14) Then Jesus said of all who abide in Him, If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you (John 15:7). The evidence that you are abiding in Jesus is that you desire to follow the Lamb wherever he goes (Rev. 14:4). And one of the evidences that you are following the Lamb is that you pray. Listen, abiding in Jesus and prayer are not separate. You cannot abide in Christ apart from a praying life. Prayer is the language of abiding. The sealed people of the Lamb are not passive spectators. They are not casual in their Christianity, and they are not content with merely warming chairs on Sunday morning. They are consecrated saints living with a wartime ethic, and one of the primary ways they wage war is by bringing their poverty, weakness, burdens, and cries before the throne of God. So, against the backdrop of Revelation 7, where John hears the people of God numbered as 144,000 and then sees them as a great multitude before the throne, the Lamb opens the seventh seal. And when He does, heaven falls silent. The Prayers Before the Throne of God Remember what I have said about the book of Revelation: it is the crescendo of the whole counsel of Gods Word, packaged into twenty-two glorious chapters. The themes that run from Genesis 1:1 through Jude 25 converge in Johns apocalypse. Genesis begins, In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Jude ends by praising the God who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy (Jude 24). Between Genesis and Jude, one of Scriptures great themes is clear: the people of God live in the middle of a war. Martyn Lloyd-Jones rightly said, There is no grosser or greater misrepresentation of the Christian message than that which depicts it as offering us a life of ease with no battle and no struggle at all.... The first thing we must realize is that the Christian life is a warfare, that we are strangers in an alien land, that we are in the enemys territory. The war is ongoing and unrelentingbut our strength to engage it does not come from within ourselves; it comes from the Lord. This is why Paul wrote, For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places (Eph. 6:12). This is why Revelation does not picture the church as passengers on a cruise ship drifting comfortably through calm waters. No, we are at war, and the church is made up of sealed, redeemed people who follow the Lamb, resist the dragon, refuse Babylon, and find their source of power and strength before the throne of God through prayer. That is why Paul urges us to put on the whole armor of God so we may stand against the devils schemes (Eph. 6:11). Yet the armor of God is not secured by human effort, self-discipline, or religious activity. It is ours because we are in Christ. He is our truth. He is our righteousness. He is our peace. He is our salvation. He is the Word who gives us the sword of the Spirit. We put on the armor by abiding in Jesus, and we stand firm in it by praying at all times in the Spirit (Eph. 6:18). Now, with the image of 144,000 sealed warriors of the Lamb, clothed in the armor of God and standing firm in prayer, we are ready to understand why Revelation 8:15 matters so much. Do not miss where the angel stands in verse 3. He stands at the altar with a golden censer, and he is given much incense to offer with the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar before the throne. Remember, this is not the first time Revelation has connected incense with prayer. In Revelation 5:8, the elders held golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. Then, when the fifth seal was opened, John saw the souls of the martyrs beneath the altar crying out, O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth? (6:10). Here in Revelation 8, John sees these prayersthe prayers of all the saintsrising before God with the smoke of incense in the presence of God Almighty. Notice that what rises before God is not only the prayers of the martyrs but the prayers of all the saints. Not only the prayers of pastors, but all the saints. Not only the prayers of the spiritually mature, but also the prayers of those who are struggling. The prayers of all the saints rise before God. Every person whose faith rests in Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, has access to the throne of God through the blood of Jesus. This means that even the weakest cry of the weakest saint, offered through Christ, is not ignored in heaven. All of this takes place within the silence of heaven, but what John sees cannot be misunderstood: God hears the prayers of all who have been redeemed by the blood of His Son. At this moment, John watches the angel take the censer, fill it with fire from the altar, and cast it to the earth. Then peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning, and an earthquake pierce the silence. These are the images and sounds of the perfect justice of a holy God. Heaven is silent, but God is not indifferent. His people cry out, and He answers in His time, in His way, and according to His holy character. Joel Beeke says of these verses, Prayer is powerful and effective in this world because God takes more notice of the prayers of His saints than He does the dictates or decrees of governments. When the prayers of the saints ascended to God in heaven, John writes that the earth was shaken with thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning, and an earthquake as seven angels prepared to sound seven trumpets. God wants to impress upon us the effectiveness of prayer.... God is saying this: By your prayers, I will overthrow governments. I will confound human plans; I will turn the world upside down, casting the wicked to the ground and delivering My ransomed people. That is why prayer is not a small thing. Prayer is one of the means by which God accomplishes His purposes in history.It is not that our prayers bend God to our will, but as we abide in Christ, we bend to His will. And this same God, who does all that he pleases (Ps. 115:3), is pleased to hear the prayers of His people. Proverbs 15:8 says, the prayer of the upright is His delight (BSB). Conclusion So, permit me to leave you with three questions: If prayer is the language of abiding, what does your prayer life say about your dependence on Jesus? If prayer is the walkie-talkie on the battlefield of the world, have you been using itor have you been trying to fight in your own strength? If heaven receives the prayers of all the saints, can you really say that God has not heard you, or that your prayers do not matter to Him? Listen to me: even the weakest saint, crying out in the name of Jesus, is heard before the throne of God. If you are a Christian, you have access to the throne of God through the Son of God because of the blood of the Lamb. So pray. Pray when you feel weak. Pray when you are afraid. Pray when you do not know what to do. Pray for your family. Pray for this church. Pray for the lost. Pray for those suffering for the name of Christ. Pray for the kingdom to come and for the will of God to be done on earth as it is in heaven. John Piper closes his chapter on prayer with a quote from Patrick Johnstone that I believe serves as an appropriate conclusion to this sermon: Let us mobilize prayer! We can tip the scales of history. Christians can be the controlling factor in the unfolding drama of todays worldlet us not allow ourselves to be chased around by the enemy, but let us go up at once and take the kingdoms of this world for Jesus (Numbers 13:30; Daniel 7:18)He is delighted to give them to us (Daniel 7:22, 27; Luke 12:32). In practical terms, may these truths make our prayer lives as individuals, and in prayer meetings, outward-looking, Satan-shaking, captive-releasing, kingdom-taking, revival-giving, Christ-glorifying power channels for God! Prayer is not how we bend God to our will; prayer is how we abide in Christ, draw near to the Father, and, through the power of the Holy Spirit, join in the purposes of the sovereign God who hears the prayers of all His saints.
Enjoy a restful moment of confidence and joy in the presence of your heavenly Father.No matter what kind of day you've had, rest in hope and peace tonight as you draw near to the heart of God. This short, uplifting meditation from His Word will create a space at the end of the day for you to refocus on the goodness and nearness of the Lord, entrust your burdens to Him and fill your mind with His promises and faithfulness towards you. Tonight's meditation is read by Lorraine. Meet the team at https://www.odbm.org/en-GB/about-us/meet-the-team. These meditations are lovingly and prayerfully crafted by human writers, presenters and producers, with no AI-generated content. If you'd like to get in touch with us to share your story or let us know how we can make the Evening Meditations an even better experience, email our team at eveningmeditations@odbm.orgWe hope that you enjoy this Evening Meditation from Our Daily Bread Ministries! You can find more exciting content from Our Daily Bread Ministries by downloading the Our Daily Bread app or visiting us at: odbm.orgAll our funding comes from our listeners, like you, who value what we do and want to help us reach more people. Together, we can keep making our podcast freely accessible to all. You can make a donation towards our mission at eveningmeditations.org. ★ Support this podcast ★
Why does Jesus leave the ninety-nine to search for the one lost sheep? In this sermon on Luke 15:1–10, we hear the comforting truth that Christ does not seek sinners in order to condemn them, but to rescue them. Like a shepherd searching for a wandering sheep, our Lord pursues those who have gone astray, carries them on His shoulders, and rejoices to bring them home. Drawing on the teaching of Martin Luther and the words of Jesus Himself, this sermon proclaims the Gospel for troubled consciences: you do not have to fear punishment, for Christ has come to save, forgive, and restore you through His Word and Sacraments. Heaven rejoices over every repentant sinner because the Good Shepherd never stops seeking His lost sheep.
This Father's Day, Pastor Mike Haman encourages us to live a life of trust and obedience to Jesus in order to walk in a way that is worth following. When we obey God, we can take God at His Word to take care of the outcome.
Pastor Jeremy Foster titled “Fragile Faith”
Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch provide an active parable for Christians today. The eunuch was a man whose life was full of barriers and exclusion, but now he's been brought into transformed life. And Philip helps the eunuch to understand his position and the text of Isaiah. Today, the marks of the church include pursuing the Lord in His Word, responding obedience, and witnessing our faith in Jesus.
In "The True Vine," Pastor Dave Gustavsen reminds us that real growth doesn't come from trying harder - it comes from staying connected to Jesus. Teaching from John 15, he encourages us to depend on Jesus daily, trust Him in the pruning, treasure His Word, and obey His commands. As we remain connected to Him, He changes us from the inside out, resulting in a life marked by answered prayer, lasting fruit, and complete joy. Dave Gustavsen | June 21, 2026Visit our website or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
This Sunday, we'll continue our study through 1 Timothy by looking at one of the saddest realities in the Christian life: people who once seemed to walk with Christ eventually drifting away from the faith. Paul tells Timothy that this should not surprise the church, because the Holy Spirit expressly warned that it would happen. Behind false teaching is more than intellectual confusion or changing opinions. There is real spiritual deception at work. We'll examine how subtle and gradual that deception often is, and why believers must remain grounded in the truth of God's Word. We'll also look closely at the nature of false spirituality. In Ephesus, false teachers were forbidding marriage and restricting foods God had created to be received with thanksgiving. Their message sounded spiritual, but Paul exposes it as legalistic and ultimately destructive. This passage reminds us that one of Satan's oldest strategies is to distort God's good gifts and replace biblical freedom with man-made religion. We'll also understand that Christian liberty is not permission for indulgence or compromise. God's gifts are good when they are received according to His design, with gratitude and purity. Finally, we'll be reminded of the goodness of God as Creator. Paul says, “everything created by God is good,” and that simple truth changes how we view everyday life. Marriage, food, rest, work, friendship, and beauty are not distractions from God, but gifts meant to point us back to Him in thanksgiving. True godliness is not found in rejecting what God has made, nor in abusing it, but in receiving His gifts rightly, under His Word and with thankful hearts. I'm looking forward to opening this rich and timely passage together!
Fatherhood often comes with unseen pressures, quiet sacrifices, and the lingering question, “Am I doing enough?” In this Father's Day message, dads are reminded that the legacy they leave behind isn't found in possessions, achievements, or even perfect parenting—it's found in the faith, values, and example they pass to the next generation. Drawing from Joshua 4, Pastor Joel challenges fathers to intentionally leave “memorial stones” that point their children toward a passionate love for God, a commitment to His Word, compassion for the people God loves, and the courage to faithfully navigate a changing world. The goal isn't simply to raise successful children, but to raise future disciples who will influence their generation for Christ. Long after a father is gone, the question his children will ask is, “What did his life mean?” The greatest legacy is a life that clearly points them to Jesus. Let's listen in.LINKS + RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:• Download the free study guide, complete transcript, and show notes here.• Scripture References: Joshua 4, verses 1-24; 1 Chronicles 12, verse 32• Find out more about Covenant Church at covenantchurchwv.com
Be Strong & Courageous MESSAGE SUMMARY: Be Strong & Courageous (Commencement -- Reformed Episcopal Seminary; Oreland, PA) We have been equipped, as God told Jeremiah in Jeremiah 29:11-12, for God's purposes in our lives: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you.". In Joshua 1:9, God commands us to be strong and courageous because He is with us. Also, God gave Joshua truths that would confirm God's support in His command of Joshua: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”. Often the Lord has called or commanded us to do something in His service, but tough decisions for us arise for us when we are not fully committed to obey God; and we fall into disobedience. When we obey God's commands, He steps into lives with support for us to achieve His command. Also, God instructed Joshua, in Joshua 1:6, to be “strong and courageous”: “Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them.". We must be “strong and courageous” to do the will of God when we are called. Additionally, God commanded Joshua to be committed to the Word of God. Courage is acting and speaking even though you are afraid. If you follow God's call and seek His will to live and act in His Word, there is no reason to be overcome by fear because “your God is with you wherever you go”. After God's grace through Jesus, God is in us through His gift to us of the Holy Spirit. You get strong by exercising the “muscles” of your faith and commitment to God's will and His word – often pushing your “commitment to God” beyond levels you thought possible. Spiritual strength comes from having God with you and in you. TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Luke 11:13 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Jeremiah 29:11-12; Joshua 1:9; Joshua 1:6; Joshua 1:7; James 1:22; Hebrews 10:23; Joshua 1:8: 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Matthew 28:16-20. Ephesians 6:10-12. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “To Be a Jesus Follower, You Must First Enter the Only Door to God's Kingdom and that Door is Jesus – the Door to Eternal Life”:https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
At our Father's Day Celebration Service, Pastor Femi Paul brought us a powerful word titled "To Reign as Kings in Life!" Drawing from Romans 5:17, we were reminded that those who receive the abundance of God's grace and the gift of righteousness are called to reign in life through Jesus Christ. We learned that reigning in life is not about status or worldly power, but about living victoriously above our circumstances, exercising dominion, and enjoying the fullness and fulfilment that God intends for His children. As God's royal people, we are called to live as kings of grace, set apart to reflect His goodness and proclaim His praises. Speaking especially to fathers, Pastor Femi declared that grace transforms ordinary men into total men. Drawing from 1 Peter 2:9 and 2 Corinthians 3:18, we were reminded that God's desire is not merely to improve us, but to continually transform us into the image of Christ from glory to glory. The message challenged us to keep beholding His Word, allowing His Spirit to shape our character, leadership, and purpose. Whether fathers, mothers, or children, we were encouraged to embrace our royal identity and live above fear, defeat, and limitation, reigning in life through the grace that Jesus freely provides. Confession: Lord, I thank You for the abundance of Your grace and the gift of righteousness. Through Christ, I will reign in life and live victoriously above every circumstance. Transform me continually into Your image, and make me a person of influence, character, and purpose who reflects Your glory and fulfils Your calling, in Jesus' mighty name. Amen.
This sermon, drawn from Galatians 6:1–5, presents a gospel-centered vision of Christian community rooted in mutual accountability, humility, and love. It emphasizes that spiritual maturity flourishes not in isolation but within the local church, where believers restore one another gently when caught in sin, bear one another's burdens in love, and guard against pride through continual self-examination. The passage underscores that such practices are not moralistic works but the natural fruit of justification by faith, fulfilling the law of Christ through love. The preacher highlights the necessity of church membership and submission to elders, portraying the church as the body of Christ where each member, though flawed, is called to serve and be served, reflecting Christ's humility and sacrificial love. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to live in constant dependence on God's grace, examining themselves by His Word, and serving others not out of self-righteousness but out of gratitude for the cross, where Christ made Himself nothing to restore sinners and bear their heaviest burdens.
Spend a moment in wonder at the generous heart of God displayed in Luke 19.No matter what kind of day you've had, rest in hope and peace tonight as you draw near to the heart of God. This short, uplifting meditation from His Word will create a space at the end of the day for you to refocus on the goodness and nearness of the Lord, entrust your burdens to Him and fill your mind with His promises and faithfulness towards you. Tonight's meditation is read by Andrew. Meet the team at https://www.odbm.org/en-GB/about-us/meet-the-team. These meditations are lovingly and prayerfully crafted by human writers, presenters and producers, with no AI-generated content. If you'd like to get in touch with us to share your story or let us know how we can make the Evening Meditations an even better experience, email our team at eveningmeditations@odbm.orgWe hope that you enjoy this Evening Meditation from Our Daily Bread Ministries! You can find more exciting content from Our Daily Bread Ministries by downloading the Our Daily Bread app or visiting us at: odbm.orgAll our funding comes from our listeners, like you, who value what we do and want to help us reach more people. Together, we can keep making our podcast freely accessible to all. You can make a donation towards our mission at eveningmeditations.org. ★ Support this podcast ★
Learn how to properly study the Bible so you can understand Scripture in its proper context, avoid common misinterpretations, grow in spiritual maturity, and hear God's voice more clearly through His Word. After completing this Bible study, you will have a stronger foundation of faith and greater confidence in your ability to study, understand, and apply the Word of God in your daily life. __________ Notes & Scriptures: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/basics Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com __________
The Treatise confesses that the Church has been instituted by Christ. This confession gives us a basic understanding of how the Church will operate: not according to our own interests, but according to the LORD's desires as revealed in His Word. We believe, teach, and confess that Christ is the head of the Church, not a man. Each pastor is given the divine right to preach the Gospel, administer the sacraments, and exercise the office of the keys. Rev. Dr. Christian Einertson, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Farmington, MN, joins Rev. Brady Finnern conclude our study of the Power and Primacy of the Pope. To learn more about Trinity in Farmington, visit trinityfarmington.org. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org.
The Echo of God: Mary's Praise and the Transformation of the Human Heart This conference represents a Marian retreat centered on praying . . . . . . “with Mary, in Mary, through Mary, and for Mary,” emphasizing that the purpose of the day is not primarily intellectual instruction but interior experience. The opening prayer . . . the Little Crown of the Blessed Virgin . . . draws on Revelation 12's image of the woman crowned with twelve stars, structured as three “crowns”: excellence (Mary's virtues and divine motherhood), power (her royal and mediating role in salvation history), and goodness (her compassion toward sinners, the suffering, and the dying). The second half of the reflection develops a meditation on the biblical meaning of the “heart.” In Scripture, the heart is not merely emotion but the center of the human person, the place of desire, loyalty, and moral orientation . . . what shapes either good fruit or evil actions (Luke 6:45; Mark 7). The heart is also closely linked with the eyes and ears: what one sees and hears shapes obedience or resistance to God. A divided heart, influenced by many “lords” such as wealth, power, or ego, contrasts with the single-hearted obedience demanded by the Shema (“The Lord is one”). Mary is presented as the model of this unified heart . . . completely ordered toward God, perfectly receptive to His Word, and fully cooperative with the Holy Spirit. In this light, the Immaculate Heart of Mary is understood as the perfectly purified human heart in total relationship with God . . .fully obedient to the Father, receptive to the Son, and fruitful through the Holy Spirit. Her responses in Scripture (“Let it be done to me according to your word,” and “My soul magnifies the Lord”) reveal her as the “echo of God,” where every honor given to her returns as praise to God. The retreat concludes by inviting participants to examine their own hearts: who or what is their true “lord,” and whether their hearts are unified in God or divided among competing loyalties. Listen to this Meditation Media. The Echo of God: Mary's Praise and the Transformation of the Human Heart -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work Madonna of the Magnificat: Italian Painter: Sandro Botticelli: 1481 This circular painting is by the Italian Renaissance painter Sandro Botticelli. Some know this painting under the title the Virgin and Child with Five Angels. In the painting, we see Our Lady writing the Magnificat with her right hand. Two angels are crowning Our Lady, with the Christ child on her lap. It now resides in the gallery of the Uffizi, in Florence. Note: we often see a smaller version of this painting; focusing on the Crowning of Our Lady. This is the full painting. -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Why was this image selected: Mary is shown writing the Magnificat, embodying the idea that everything in her life returns as praise to God . . . an artistic expression of her being the “echo of God.”
Pressure. Stress. Overwhelming troubles. Should we hate them less? In the book of Acts we see some men who received supernatural confirmation of their faith! It came when they were facing death. Paul, Peter and Stephen walked through the "valley of the shadow," and it changed them. Today Pastor Jim will share some personal experiences that have convinced him more than ever that God is near, and His Word is true. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS06192026_0.mp3Scripture References: Acts 7, 12
For the best experience, visit our YouTube Channel!For those who followed me when I was on social media regularly, you know that I love a good thrift store! There is a special kind of joy in thrifting that can't be replicated online. You walk into the store not knowing what you'll find, and every shelf holds possibility. There's something especially satisfying about finding a beautiful theology book on a shelf for just a few dollars. Over the years, thrifting has become one of my favorite ways to build a library. Not only is it more affordable, but it feels like the true reflection of what I'm finding in a book about God: treasure.In today's video, I'm taking you along and sharing:• How I hunt for theology books in thrift stores.• How I discern which books are worth bringing home.• Why I recommend some books to others and keep different books for my own reading.• Practical tips for thrifting theology books and building your own library on a budget.If you'd like my theology book lists and recommendations, we'd love to hear from you! Email us at phylicia@phyliciamasonheimer.com.Visit our newly launched Summer Shop at www.everywomanatheologian.com.My new favorite! Carry your summer reads in our new Preach Christ Summer Tote, designed to keep your favorite books close at hand all season long.At Every Woman a Theologian, we believe theology isn't reserved for scholars. Every Christian is invited to know God more deeply through His Word. Subscribe for rich biblical teaching, practical discipleship, and encouragement to think biblically and live faithfully in everyday life. And if you'd like Bible teaching delivered right to your inbox, join our email list for the latest resources, recommendations, and updates.#ThriftingBooks #TheologyBooks #ChristianBooks #BookRecommendations #BibleStudy #EveryWomanATheologian #PhyliciaMasonheimer #ChristianYouTube #BookThrifting (edited)
In this week's edition of the The Weekly, Pastor Bob Scott, CUFI's Ministry Engagement Director, tackles the questions and arguments surrounding the effort to undermine the modern Jewish connection to God, His Word, and the land of Israel.
In this episode, we explore what it means to live with confidence in the promises of God. Life often brings uncertainty, delays, challenges, and circumstances that can make us question what God is doing. Yet Scripture reminds us that God is faithful, trustworthy, and true to His Word.Living under the assurance of God's promises means choosing faith and trusting God's character even when we cannot see the outcome. It is believing that His promises of provision, protection, peace, guidance, strength, and eternal hope remain secure regardless of our current circumstances. God's timing may not always align with our expectations, but His faithfulness never fails.This episode encourages listeners to stand firmly on God's Word, remember His past faithfulness, and reject the temptation to be discouraged by temporary setbacks. When we anchor our hearts in His promises, we can face challenges with confidence, knowing that God is working all things together for our good and His glory.My 30 Day Faith to Believe devotional:Faith to Believe – 30 Day Devotional eBook - Elevate | Christina JollyConnect with me at:Home - Elevate | Christina JollyGet your FREE eBook download here:Elevate Your Faith in 5 Minutes - Elevate | Christina Jolly
In this episode of Faith Talks, Anna Faith Fuller interviews Terrilaina Gillmore about her journey of faith, missions, and surrender to God's will. From her salvation as a young girl to her burden for orphans and medical missions, Teri shares how God used His Word, missions trips, and even painful trials to make His calling clear. Her testimony challenges young ladies to stop chasing the easy road and instead follow the fulfilling road of knowing God, hearing His voice, and stepping forward in faith. Topics Discussed Teri's salvation testimony and early desire to know God through His Word How missions trips shaped her view of the world and burden for others Her heart for orphans and how nursing became part of that calling Lessons learned through medical ministry in Ghana How God used an injury in Papua New Guinea to confirm His direction The sufficiency of God's grace in moments of weakness The danger of worldly voices crowding out God's Word Why young ladies must make clear decisions to follow God's will The difference between an easy life and a fulfilling life Key Takeaways God's will is not always easy, but it is always fulfilling. Weakness does not disqualify you from usefulness; it may be the very place where God shows His strength. God often uses trials to clarify His direction in your life. Young people must intentionally silence competing voices if they want to hear God clearly. Time in God's Word transforms your desires, decisions, and direction. The world is not neutral, so passive Christianity is not safe Christianity. God wants to use surrendered young people in ways far bigger than they realize. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.
Jesus is more than a witness to the truth. He is truth incarnate. What does that mean for those who reject His Word? From his sermon series in the gospel of John, today R.C. Sproul shows why Christ's divine witness demands our trust and our obedience. Get R.C. Sproul's commentary on the gospel of John with your donation: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/ Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request the John commentary ebook 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