Podcasts about immaturity

Horse Judgements Coming Soon      (audio)      David Eells – 10/5/25 White Horse and Rider Ryan Kwasnica - 05/13/2008 Back in 1997 the Lord gave me a dream. It was nighttime and I saw stars in the sky with beams of light coming down on the heads of people who were coming together in a large gathering. I looked up at the stars in the sky again and I saw a rider on a white horse with a bow in His hand. I knew that this rider on the white horse somehow represented Christ. Then, on September 23, 2004, I had a dream where I heard a voice that said, “Tell My people, 'Get ready, My woe church is coming'. Write the vision down so that My people may run”. I was young in the Lord and was not sure what to make of the first dream, so I put it on the shelf. In October of 2007, a man that I knew, who I saw in my dream died, and I was reminded of this dream again. Then, at the beginning of this year, 2008, I 'stumbled upon' UnleavenedBreadMinistries.org. I began to see that this white horse rider/woe church symbolized the Man-child ministry which is to come. (These are the first fruits to manifest “Christ in You.”)   Apostates War Against the White Horse Nathan Finney - 11/2007 (David's notes in red) I remember emailing David about wanting to receive dreams. David told me he prayed for me to have the dreams, and I did, so I wanted to share that with you. I had this vision on the video screen of my mind about a year ago, but didn't tell anybody until last week. As I thought about it, I thought about the parable of the talents and the wicked servant who hid his talent in the ground and didn't do anything with it. I love David's teachings and love your ministry. I was sitting at my desk while I was under attack and my spirit within me was very heavy. Then I saw and heard the hoofbeats of many crimson horses with armor plating as warhorses charging down a field. The sight made me sigh. Then I saw one white horse turn its head slightly and neigh and this horse was the only one to oppose the crimson warhorses. Then the vision ended. Many apostates will seek to wage war against Jesus in the man-child, the white horse rider of Revelation 6, just as they did in Jesus' time.   Four Horsemen to Ride Soon Below are two confirming dreams that the four tribulation horse judgments are coming soon.   The Four Horses Michael Boldea Jr. - 10/31/2007 (David's notes in red) The following is a dream I had the night of October 29, 2007. If not for the specific instruction to share what I saw, I would have preferred to keep it to myself. I had gone to bed late, having waited for my wife to get home from work. After seeing that she had arrived home safely and saying my prayers, I fell into a restful sleep. I dreamt that I was sleeping when a hand touched my shoulder, and a voice I recognized said, 'Wake up.' In my dream, I opened my eyes, and my breath caught in my throat as I saw who had awakened me. It was the same messenger, the angel I had seen on previous occasions, dressed in full battle armor, standing by the side of my bed. 'Take my hand,' he said, 'I have been sent to show you something.' I barely touched the hand that was extended toward me when my bed and my bedroom evaporated, and I found myself standing before a white, oblong building that looked a lot like a barn or a horse stable. Two large doors made up the front of the structure, and as I looked, they began to swing open. I knew wherever I was, it was not of this earth, because everything shone, everything was white, pristine, immaculate. I also knew that whatever the reason for being shown this was about to be revealed, so I stood in silence, holding the messenger's hand. As soon as the doors were fully open, I saw an angel that looked very much like the one standing beside me, except without the armor, leading a white horse by its reins. The horse was large and muscular, but he followed the angel obediently with its head bent low. The angel's countenance was somber as he led the horse away, and for some reason this registered with great clarity. I looked up to the messenger whose hand I was still holding, but he merely nodded toward the white building and the open doors, and said, 'witness'. Another angel soon appeared in the doorway, holding the reins of a red horse, following after the first. I began to realize what I was seeing, and in silence watched as two more angels appeared, each holding the reins of a horse, one black, one of no discernible color, just pale. All four angels were dressed alike and had the same somber, sorrowful countenance. I stood and watched as all four horses were led out of my sight, and finally when they had disappeared from view, the messenger turned to me and said: “Go and tell what you have seen. The riders prepare, the horses are ready, and soon they will descend, soon they will be loosed. (The four seal judgments opened by Jesus in Rev 6:1-8. The Tribulation starts with the Man-child judge, followed by War, Famine, and Death.) Remember what you have witnessed, and do not hold back a single word. Soon they descend on wings of fury; soon turmoil will shake earth's very foundation. Prepare yourself, for many will fall and few will stand. Fulfillment is at hand; go and speak what you have seen and what you have heard. The Kingdom awaits the righteous, the holy will soon see the Lord.” I only realized I was still holding his hand when he let go of mine, and suddenly I was back in my bed, sitting up, fully awake. I am still unsure whether or not it was a dream, or if 'dream' is the right word for it, but for simplicity's sake, I will call it a dream. I tried to go back to sleep but could not, vividly remembering the sorrowful look on the faces of the angels who were leading the horses out of the stables. It seems the world is seeing what the church is refusing to acknowledge, the fact that we are on the cusp of great upheaval not only in this nation, but also throughout the world. These are the days of which the prophets spoke, the days of which Christ warned, the time of distress, of sifting and of separation. My prayer is that we remember always, our hope is in the Lord, and He is faithful to those who are faithful to Him. If one word stands out from this entire dream, it is the word 'prepare' and we must do so with diligence. The children of God must steel themselves for what is coming, prepare their hearts and settle within their soul that the day in which we will have to stand for truth is soon approaching.   The Four 'People Bombs' Cheri Watson - 11/01/2007 (David's notes in red) I had a dream in the early morning hours, while it was still dark. Actually, this was the timing in the dream as well. In the dream, there were two planes headed towards the east, and both were flying over water. On the wings of both planes, there were bombs filled with people, not explosives, and under the belly of each plane, there was a real bomb. The plane on the left shot off the two 'people bombs' first. Then shortly after, the bomb on the belly of the plane. The people hit the water first and then the bomb. I didn't “see” any repercussions from the first bomb, but I knew there was a lot of devastation that I couldn't see. Then the people were shot out of the second plane, and then again shortly after, the second bomb from the belly of the plane was shot off. (I wasn't sure how I fit into the dream... I seemed to be in the second plane because I witnessed the first set of bombs go off and then I ended up in the water after the second set of 'people bombs' were set off. I don't know if this has any relevance.) Now, in the water, I was looking towards the sky, and I saw the second bomb headed for the water. I knew I had to get out of the water quickly, and I woke up saying, “It's happening too quickly! It's happening too quickly!!!” I hadn't slept well for the last three nights and awoke this morning very tired. I wasn't sure what the dream meant, so I prayed for the Holy Spirit to recall to my memory what I needed to remember of this dream and its interpretation. Then I sat down at my computer and I saw that Michael Boldea had had a recent dream... (shared above), my heart started pounding and I knew I had to read it. When I read the highlighted portion in red of Michael's dream, I felt a confirmation in the Spirit about the interpretation of my dream. The four “people” bombs (on the wings of the plane) represented the four horse judgments. The two “real” bombs attached to the bellies of the planes reminded me of the two attacks yet to come upon America (as given in Michael's dream of the eagle and the serpents) ... the first was 9/11, the second two are yet to come. The Lord showed me years ago that the horses represent the harnessed flesh of the beasts of lost humanity that will bring devastation to the earth. This is in agreement with Cheri's dream of bombs of people bringing this devastation. Cheri having to get out of the waters of humanity after the fourth 'people bomb' hits or the fourth horse is released is very scriptural. (Rev.17:15 And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the harlot sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.  Cheri and all saints must come out of the Babylonish Harlot before her judgments for they will be taking the mark of the beast during the last half of the Tribulation.  (Rev 18:4)  And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come forth, my people, out of her, that ye have no fellowship with her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues:    White Horse Prepared for Rider Linda L. Gray - 09/29/2016 (David's notes in red) I had this dream where I was inside my home when I noticed an unusual white cloud formation through one of my windows. To get a better look at the cloud formation, I went outside. It was a clear blue sky with no clouds elsewhere but this particular large formation in front of my house. (Nothing else will be more significant concerning changes in the world for God's people.) Within the formation of clouds, I saw a white horse. (The Man-child reformers who live above this evil world in heavenly places by abiding IN Christ. Eph.2: 6 and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus: The Man-child body as a cloud will water the earth with the Word of God because he is manifestly seated with Christ in heavenly places. The rest of the Church has not yet manifested this place and is not chosen to be in the Man-child body of people.) There was no rider on the horse that I could see as the clouds kept going around the horse, making it difficult to get a clearer view. Psa.48:2 Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King. (The white horse is the Man-child head of Zion, the Bride, as John was told in Revelation. The rider is the Lord who reigns over the Man-child body but not yet the Church. All of the horses in the seals of Revelation 6 are white (representing holiness conquering the Beast), red (war), black (famine and economic collapse) and pale (death and Hades). The horses represent the flesh of men who serve the spirit and leadership that rides them and rules over them. All of these horses are people who bring these judgments to the world. When they are empowered, they will have riders upon them. The first rider is the Lord of His first-fruits Man-child body who will reign over the world and the Church.  At the time of this dream, this first rider is not yet reigning the horse, which comes with the Man-child's anointing. Rev.1:7 Behold, he cometh with the clouds (Notice: Jesus will come with the clouds or white horse Man-child body.); and every eye shall see him, and they that pierced him; and all the tribes of the earth shall mourn over him. Even so, Amen. (This verse has a more literal interpretation at the end of the tribulation, but it accurately describes in the Spirit what will happen when the white horse rider, Jesus in the Man-child body, leads the other horse judgments in the earth, which is exactly what Moses the Man-child did. He brought the other judgments. “He cometh with clouds”. The Gematria for “clouds” here is 144 x 10. 144 is the number of the Man-child and 10 is the number of the Word or law he obeys and teaches. “Were purchased from among men to be first-fruits” is verse 14:4. Notice the verse number 144. Rev.14:1 And I saw, and behold, the Lamb standing on the mount Zion, and with him a hundred and forty and four thousand, having his name, and the name of his Father, written on their foreheads. 4 These are they that were not defiled with women (sects or denominations); for they are virgins (not having received the seed or word of man). These are they that follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were purchased from among men, to be the firstfruits unto God and unto the Lamb. Both Jesus and Jesus in the Man-child, as a repeat of history, fit this. Psa.118:22 The stone which the builders rejected Is become the head of the corner.) Circling the outer perimeter of the cloud formation was a large plane, which apparently had seen this formation and was trying to get a better view. (Jesus, the Man-child was circled by a large group of people, as would be in a large plane, who wanted His holy teaching to live above the world. The white horse is typed by Mordecai, Moses, Joseph, David, Soloman, Jesus and many more. These were all reigned over by Jesus. This was a judgment on Egypt, as a type of the world. Each of these men and many like them led the Bride, and through them the Church, to freedom and power. Each of these also brought judgments on the Beast body, as a type of the world Beast body of seven heads and ten horns.) I (as a type of the Bride) was very excited and wanted a photo of the beautiful white horse, so I went inside my house to retrieve my cell phone. When I came back outside, the airspace was filled with war planes covering the entire field of vision, flying in a grid formation heading from south to north. It looked like a tic-tac-toe-type grid with the planes in perfect formation. (After the white horse body of the Man-child comes to conquer in Rev 6:2 comes war in verses 3&4. (Rev 6:2)  And I saw, and behold, a white horse, and he that sat thereon had a bow; and there was given unto him a crown: and he came forth conquering, and to conquer. 3  And when he opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature saying, Come. 4  And another horse came forth, a red horse: and to him that sat thereon it was given to take peace from the earth, and that they should slay one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.  And after the Man-child was caught up to heavenly authority and the physical war came there was naturally a spiritual war with it. Rev.12:7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels going forth to war with the dragon; and the dragon warred and his angels; 8 And they prevailed not, neither was their place found any more in heaven. 9 And the great dragon was cast down, the old serpent, he that is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world; he was cast down to the earth, and his angels were cast down with him. 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. 11 And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb, and because of the word of their testimony; and they loved not their life even unto death. And the Dragon or Satan was cast down to rule over his world body of seven heads and 10 horns, which is beaten by He who “came with the clouds”, the Man-child, and saints in whom the Lord lives. Jesus in the Man-child reformers, will conquer the world beast. Dan.7:13 I saw in the night-visions, and, behold, there came with the clouds of heaven one like unto a son of man, and he came even to the ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. 14 And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all the peoples, nations, and languages should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. ... 22 until the ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the Most High, and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom. The dream then ended. (Whatever was in the clouds, the powers that be didn't like, and they were ready to wage war against it.) (Yes, the powers that be are the head of the Dragon body on earth. They are Satanists whom we are casting down.)   White Horse Vision M. L. - 03/28/2014 (David's notes in red) During our Friday night meeting, while singing “The Battle Belongs to the Lord” the final time, I had the following vision: The Lord was riding a white horse but I was only seeing the side area of the horse's head, near the mane. The mane was blowing back and I heard the snorting of the horse. I saw the Lord from mid-chest up in a white garment. In His strong, muscular right arm, He held the reins in a tight grip, showing His control. His mantle was blowing in the wind and He took His free hand and gave it a quick motion of throwing it back out of His way. He had the look of stern determination. {Rev.6:1} And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures saying as with a voice of thunder, Come. {2} And I saw, and behold, a white horse, and he that sat thereon had a bow; and there was given unto him a crown: and he came forth conquering, and to conquer. Following this are the horses of war, famine and death. He said to me, “Do you have any doubt that I can take care of your enemies, to deliver you from all bondages and heal all your diseases? I have already done this!” The verses that came to my mind were: {Isa.59:16} And He saw that there was no man, and was astonished that there was no one to intercede; then His own arm brought salvation to Him, and His righteousness upheld Him. {17} He put on righteousness like a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on His head; and He put on garments of vengeance for clothing and wrapped Himself with zeal as a mantle. {18} According to their deeds, so He will repay, wrath to His adversaries, recompense to His enemies; To the coastlands He will make recompense. {19} So shall they fear the name of Jehovah from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun; for he will come as a rushing stream, which the breath of Jehovah driveth. {20} And a Redeemer will come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith Jehovah. {21} And as for me, this is my covenant with them, saith Jehovah: my Spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed's seed, saith Jehovah, from henceforth and for ever. And continuing in chapter {60:1} Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of Jehovah is risen upon thee. {2} For, behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the peoples; but Jehovah will arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. {3} And nations shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising. {4} Lift up thine eyes round about, and see: they all gather themselves together, they come to thee; thy sons shall come from far, and thy daughters shall be carried in the arms. {5} Then thou shalt see and be radiant, and thy heart shall thrill and be enlarged; because the abundance of the sea shall be turned unto thee, the wealth of the nations shall come unto thee.   The Immature and the White Horse Warrior G. M. - 08/21/2015 (David's notes in red) This dream began with me being in an apartment complex. (This is a type of Christianity as a whole at this time, except that its growth into a holy temple is stunted. {Eph.2:21} in whom each several building, fitly framed together, groweth into a holy temple in the Lord; {22} in whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God in the Spirit. The structure was not a large building, but small, simple units that were joined, but at different levels, because they were built on the side of a hill in a heavily wooded area. (I thought the apartment complex could speak of those [Christians] we share God's Word with and not all are of the same maturity.) The canopy of the trees overhead didn't allow much sunlight to come through, so it was shady. (Meaning they did not allow the light of the Son into their hearts. Many of God's people live in darkness, indoctrinated by idolatrous religious leaders and systems that are against the glorious light being offered by the Lord's ministers. Pray for them, saints. This will change.) I felt there were more adults in this complex (but they must keep a low profile, being weak to the weak, or they will not be able to be useful), but I was only seeing children (representing spiritual immaturity). The apartment that I was in was dimly lit, as all the curtains were closed. (The immature with a religious spirit are closed to more light than what they have in their idolatrous minds. Immaturity is not a sin; we have all been there, but perpetual immaturity imposed by the false prophets is.) I wanted to let some light in, so I opened a curtain toward the back of the apartment. (We have to get around their flesh, the house, to get into their spiritual man, subtly trying to get some light in that will dispel the darkness and manifest Christ in their lives. Sometimes it takes a shaking to bring the fear of the Lord and break through all the fairy tales so they can see they are vulnerable and will not fly away.) There was a chain-linked dog kennel right next to the house with a black Doberman and two smaller dogs or puppies with long curly black hair that were racing back and forth and yipping loudly. (Dogs in the kennel symbolized demonic spirits that were bound.) There was a larger dog on the outside of the kennel, looking at those inside the kennel. I was unaware of the dogs until I opened the curtain. I closed it immediately. (Demonic influence from leadership and immature peer pressure, all of whom are in bondage, toward those in darkness, which the house represents. The larger dog outside of their particular bondage represents the principality overseeing their bondage.) One of the little girls wanted to ride a horse, so we headed out to the pasture. (I only remember having the thought to go to the pasture and we were there.) Before our eyes was the most magnificent white horse that, in my estimation, stood 20 feet tall. (This is the white horse of Revelation. It is not the kind of horse that little girls ride. We have been shown that little girls represent those who are not mature, who are incapable to receive or sow the seed of the Word of God. Only Jesus in the warrior body of the Man-child will be mature enough to ride this horse. The Man-child receives this position by grace, but Jesus in anybody is awesome!) With a short explanation, I can share with you a revelation that will show how God will deal with the immature and rebellious Church to wake them up. In Genesis 48:19, Ephraim was called in Hebrew the “multitude of nations” (meaning “Gentiles”) and represents the Church. Ephraim was the second son of Joseph, who was one of the clearest types of Jesus in the Bible. Jesus, like Joseph, had two sons: Israel and the Church. Joseph's second-born, Ephraim, represents the Church, which received the Lord as their leader that would have been given to Manasseh, the first-born, who represents natural Israel. It will take a combination of judgment and the latter rain outpouring on a new leadership, the Man-child, to awaken the Church when the Lord returns, first manifested in the Man-child through the latter rain anointing. In type for this, Jesus was first to receive the former rain anointing. According to Joel, this will be poured out on the Church in our day, who mostly haven't received this. Here is that story: {Hos.5:14} For I will be unto Ephraim [the Church] as a lion [a full-grown lion, the Lord, the Lion of Judah!], and as a young lion [not as fearsome] to the house of Judah [so-called “spirit-filled” Christianity]: I, even I, will tear and go away; I will carry off, and there shall be none to deliver.  Jesus will chasten His apostate people of Christianity, just as they were under the Roman Empire in Jesus' day. {15} I will go and return to my place [which He did], till they acknowledge their offence, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me earnestly. Affliction is coming to those under man and false Christianity instead of God. {6:1} Come, and let us return unto Jehovah; for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up. {2} After two days will he revive us: on the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live before him. {3} And let us know, let us follow on to know Jehovah: his going forth is sure as the morning; and he will come unto us as the rain, as the latter rain that watereth the earth. Back to the dream. The warrior on this horse showed confidence and authority. (Which Jesus does. The latter rain-anointed Man-child Jesus will reign over the white horse, which will have manifested His name, meaning “nature, character and authority”.) The rider was wearing a silver helmet, like what I remember Roman soldiers wore. (Armor, like was in the Church in the time of Jesus, who had all the armor on, which pertains to putting on the Word, whom Jesus is. The silver helmet represents a mind that cannot be corrupted by Satan's arrows or his ministers.) He had a very long sword in his hand and was wearing a brilliant red robe that came down all the way to the ground. This was a very spectacular sight, as this scene was bursting with brightness. (The long sword represents His ability to reach all nations with judgment and to defend the saints. We are told in Isaiah 63 that His garments are stained with the blood of the Edomites, Esau's seed, who sold their birthright because of a root of bitterness against Israel, representing the true Church. {Isa.63:1} Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah [meaning sheepfold]? this that is glorious in his apparel, marching in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save. {2} Wherefore art thou red in thine apparel, and thy garments like him that treadeth in the winevat? {3} I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the peoples there was no man with me: yea, I trod them in mine anger, and trampled them in my wrath; and their lifeblood is sprinkled upon my garments, and I have stained all my raiment. The little girl and I were in awe of what was before us but I felt no fear. (This is a picture that will be replayed many times: the wise bringing the immature to Jesus over His Man-child warriors, who will give them the help they need.) After a while, the little girl took my hand and said she wanted to ride this horse. (This is a good desire but the crucified life comes first. Many want to be in this Man-child but are not willing to pay the price to lay down their lives to take up Jesus' life, the life of the Word.) Then I woke up. The scripture that was shared earlier that night from Revelation 19:11-13 gave an accurate description of the horse and rider that I saw. (This is Jesus who comes at the end of the tribulation in the day of the Lord's wrath to administer judgment to the Beast and False Prophet, who have crucified the saints. {Rev.19:11} And I saw the heaven opened; and behold, a white horse, and he that sat thereon called Faithful and True; and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. {12} And his eyes are a flame of fire, and upon his head are many diadems; and he hath a name written which no one knoweth but he himself. {13} And he is arrayed in a garment sprinkled with blood: and his name is called The Word of God. This is Jesus reigning over the Man-child reformers with many crowns, for He conquers all kings and takes their crowns. {11:15} And the seventh angel sounded; and there followed great voices in heaven, and they said, The kingdom of the world is become the kingdom of our Lord, and of his Christ: and he shall reign for ever and ever. This is a picture of Jesus as the white horse rider, who comes to conquer the enemies of God's kingdom. {Rev.6:1} And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures saying as with a voice of thunder, Come. {2} And I saw, and behold, a white horse, and he that sat thereon had a bow; and there was given unto him a crown: and he came forth conquering, and to conquer. This is Jesus reigning over the corporate first fruits with one crown, symbolizing the unity of this corporate body to rule.) The Man-child ministry, in whom Jesus lives by His Word and Spirit, are the Revelation 6:2 white horse rider. Here are types of Man-children that were given this authority over the nations to speak and act for God: {Dan.2:46} Then the king Nebuchadnezzar fell upon his face, and worshipped Daniel, and commanded that they should offer an oblation and sweet odors unto him. {47} The king answered unto Daniel, and said, Of a truth your God is the God of gods, and the Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou hast been able to reveal this secret. {48} Then the king made Daniel great, and gave him many great gifts, and made him to rule over the whole province of Babylon, and to be chief governor over all the wise men of Babylon. (We have dreams that the Man-child will rule as President.) {Jer.1:9} Then Jehovah put forth his hand, and touched my mouth; and Jehovah said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth: {10} see, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to pluck up and to break down and to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant. {Gen.41:39} And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath showed thee all of this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou: {40} thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be greater than thou. {41} And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt. I was given two scriptures by random: Isaiah 44:12 and Psalm 106:33. I felt led to read all of both chapters, as they brought out the strongholds of idolatry and rebellion that are rampant in America, but also God's promises to His people. Here they are in a portion of each text, and they fit the dream very well: {Isa.44:1} Yet now hear, O Jacob my servant, and Israel, who I have chosen: {2} Thus saith Jehovah that made thee, and formed thee from the womb, who will help thee: Fear not, O Jacob my servant; and thou, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen. {3} For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and streams upon the dry ground; I will pour my Spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring: {4} and they shall spring up among the grass, as willows by the watercourses... {8} Fear ye not, neither be afraid: have I not declared unto thee of old, and showed it? and ye are my witnesses. Is there a God besides me? yea, there is no Rock; I know not any. {9} They that fashion a graven image are all of them vanity; and the things that they delight in shall not profit; and their own witnesses see not, nor know: that they may be put to shame. {10} Who hath fashioned a god, or molten an image that is profitable for nothing? {11} Behold, all his fellows shall be put to shame; and the workmen, they are of men: let them all be gathered together, let them stand up; they shall fear, they shall be put to shame together. {12} The smith maketh an axe, and worketh in the coals, and fashioneth it with hammers, and worketh it with his strong arm: yea, he is hungry, and his strength faileth; he drinketh no water, and is faint. {21} Remember these things, O Jacob, and Israel; for thou art my servant: I have formed thee; thou art my servant: O Israel, thou shalt not be forgotten of me. {22} I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins: return unto me; for I have redeemed thee. {23} Sing, O ye heavens, for Jehovah hath done it; shout, ye lower parts of the earth; break forth into singing, ye mountains, O forest, and every tree therein: for Jehovah hath redeemed Jacob, and will glorify himself in Israel. {Psa.106:6} We have sinned with our fathers, We have committed iniquity, we have done wickedly. {7} Our fathers understood not thy wonders in Egypt; They remembered not the multitude of thy lovingkindnesses, But were rebellious at the sea, even at the Red Sea. {8} Nevertheless he saved them for his name's sake, That he might make his mighty power to be known. {9} He rebuked the Red Sea also, and it was dried up: So he led them through the depths, as through a wilderness. {10} And he saved them from the hand of him that hated them, And redeemed them from the hand of the enemy. {11} And the waters covered their adversaries; There was not one of them left. {12} Then believed they his words; They sang his praise. {13} They soon forgat his works; They waited not for his counsel, {14} But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, And tempted God in the desert. {15} And he gave them their request, But sent leanness into their soul. {16} They envied Moses also in the camp, And Aaron the saint of Jehovah. {17} The earth opened and swallowed up Dathan, And covered the company of Abiram. {18} And a fire was kindled in their company; The flame burned up the wicked. {19} They made a calf in Horeb, And worshipped a molten image. {20} Thus they changed their glory For the likeness of an ox that eateth grass. {21} They forgat God their Saviour, Who had done great things in Egypt, {22} Wondrous works in the land of Ham, And terrible things by the Red Sea. {23} Therefore he said that he would destroy them, Had not Moses his chosen stood before him in the breach, To turn away his wrath, lest he should destroy them. {24} Yea, they despised the pleasant land, They believed not his word, {25} But murmured in their tents, And hearkened not unto the voice of Jehovah. {26} Therefore he sware unto them, That he would overthrow them in the wilderness, {27} And that he would overthrow their seed among the nations, And scatter them in the lands. {28} They joined themselves also unto Baal-peor, And ate the sacrifices of the dead. {29} Thus they provoked him to anger with their doings; And the plague brake in upon them. {30} Then stood up Phinehas, and executed judgment; And so the plague was stayed. {31} And that was reckoned unto him for righteousness, Unto all generations for evermore. {32} They angered him also at the waters of Meribah, So that it went ill with Moses for their sakes; {33} Because they were rebellious against his spirit, And he spake unadvisedly with his lips. {34} They did not destroy the peoples, As Jehovah commanded them, {35} But mingled themselves with the nations, And learned their works, {36} And served their idols, Which became a snare unto them. {37} Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto demons, {38} And shed innocent blood, Even the blood of their sons and of their daughters, Whom they sacrificed unto the idols of Canaan; And the land was polluted with blood. {39} Thus were they defiled with their works, And played the harlot in their doings. {40} Therefore was the wrath of Jehovah kindled against his people, And he abhorred his inheritance. {41} And he gave them into the hand of the nations; And they that hated them ruled over them. {42} Their enemies also oppressed them, And they were brought into subjection under their hand. {43} Many times did he deliver them; But they were rebellious in their counsel, And were brought low in their iniquity. {44} Nevertheless he regarded their distress, When he heard their cry: {45} And he remembered for them his covenant, And repented according to the multitude of his lovingkindnesses. {46} He made them also to be pitied of all those that carried them captive. {47} Save us, O Jehovah our God, And gather us from among the nations, To give thanks unto thy holy name, And to triumph in thy praise. {48} Blessed be Jehovah, the God of Israel, From everlasting even to everlasting. And let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye Jehovah.   Pray for the Man-child Anointing Eve Brast - 12/22/2015 (David's notes in red) I dreamed that David looked just like Jesus, but it was David on the inside. (This represents the works of Jesus manifested in the David Man-child body.) He was dressed in a white, seamless garment. (White implies purity and seamless implies not manmade, which means no works of the flesh.) He was going around healing all these sick people. They were all desperate and begging for him to heal them. (This is just as it was when Jesus came the first time. Now He is coming through the Word of God and latter rain anointing manifested in the Man-child Ministry.) The next part I remember is that I was in a log cabin (the wilderness tribulation) where we were having a UBM meeting. I was sitting on the floor waiting for everything to start when Michael Hare came up to me. He was smiling and had light shining in his eyes. He presented something to me that he was holding between his thumb and forefinger. I looked at it and it looked white and fluffy. I asked him, “What is it?” and almost immediately I answered my own question: “Manna!” I exclaimed. I took it and ate it right away. After this, I felt power enter into me and I knew that the Father would give me whatever I asked of Him in prayer. (When Michael gives to Eve, representing the Bride, the Manna from Heaven, she is empowered. The manna came in the wilderness and represented the Word of God. {Joh.6:49} Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. {50} This is the bread which cometh down out of heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. {51} I am the living bread which came down out of heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: yea and the bread which I will give is my flesh, for the life of the world. {1:14} And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us (and we beheld his glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father), full of grace and truth. Notice, He did not say if you confess Jesus as your personal Savior, but when you devour His Word, you will have eternal life. When this manna Word is manifest in you, you receive your requests. {Joh.15:7} If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatsoever ye will, and it shall be done unto you.) (I asked Father for a word concerning Michael [meaning, “who is like God”], giving me the manna, and received Ezekiel 18:9. In context: {Eze.18:7} if a man does not oppress anyone, but restores to the debtor his pledge, does not commit robbery, but gives his bread to the hungry and covers the naked with clothing, {8} if he does not lend money on interest or take increase, if he keeps his hand from iniquity and executes true justice between man and man, {9} if he walks in My statutes and My ordinances so as to deal faithfully - he is righteous and will surely live, declares the Lord GOD.) (Basically, we are seeing here that a faithful servant of the Lord who keeps His Word will be able to give the manna Word from Heaven to the Bride.) Then I got up and went over to a table and sat down with my hands clasped together and started to pray. (She was now asking God for everything by faith. :o) Then David came over to me (looking like David again) and placed a small handful of bread crumbs on the table before me. He said, “Eve, I need you to pray for me”. (“Looking like David again” means before the Davids look like Jesus and do all His healings and works mentioned above. In this state they need prayer to do those greater works. The crumbs on the table represent the minor works being handed out now. {Mat.15:27} But she said, Yea, Lord: for even the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table. So the Man-child Davids need prayer for the anointing.) He said this in a very calm and serious way. He then walked off to the right into another part of the log cabin. I then took a white cloth and scooped the bread crumbs onto it and held it between my hands as I began to pray in earnest for David. (Praying for the crumbs to become whole. ;o) (I asked Father for a verse for David, asking me to pray for him, and received through faith, {Psa.89:27} I also will make him [the Davids] my first-born, The highest of the kings of the earth. I believe this is saying to pray earnestly for the Man-child's [kingly] anointing.) (In context here is what was spoken to David: {Psa 89:19} Then thou spakest in vision to thy saints, And saidst, I have laid help upon one that is mighty; I have exalted one chosen out of the people. {20} I have found David my servant; With my holy oil have I anointed him: {21} With whom my hand shall be established; Mine arm also shall strengthen him. {22} The enemy shall not exact from him, Nor the son of wickedness afflict him. {23} And I will beat down his adversaries before him, And smite them that hate him. {24} But my faithfulness and my lovingkindness shall be with him; And in my name shall his horn be exalted. {25} I will set his hand also on the sea, And his right hand on the rivers. {26} He shall cry unto me, Thou art my Father, My God, and the rock of my salvation. {27} I also will make him my first-born, The highest of the kings of the earth.) Then I asked Father, “Why did David ask me to pray for him? I received Psalm 119:90, and my finger was on the words “Thy faithfulness”. (Those who are in the Bride will be faithful to keep His commandments and will receive power with God to do His works.) (If we take only the words pointed out, it would speak of the Bride's faithfulness being a reason her prayers are heard for the Man-childs anointing. If we look at the text, it speaks of God's faithfulness to keep His Word.) {Psa.119:89} LAMEDH. For ever, O Jehovah, Thy word is settled in heaven. {90} Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: Thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. (Both fit the circumstances of the dream pretty well.) Pray for me, brethren. I desire to be one of the faithful Davids for the body and have been told by the Lord I would be, but every promise is fulfilled by His grace for our faithfulness, which is a gift from God. It is all by grace. (From our book, Hidden Manna For the End Times)   THE WHITE HORSE RIDER? (Rev.6:1) And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures saying as with a voice of thunder, Come. (2) And I saw, and behold, a white horse, and he that sat thereon had a bow; and there was given unto him a crown: and he came forth conquering, and to conquer. The white horse rider is Christ reigning on a modern-day body of believers called the Man-child. Jesus came at the start of the first 3 1/2 years of the disciples' tribulation, and the Man-child will come at the beginning of the first 3 1/2 years of the end-time Tribulation. Why must this be the first seal judgment? (1Pet.4:17) For the time [is come] for judgment to begin at the house of God: and if [it begin] first at us, what [shall be] the end of them that obey not the gospel of God? Just as the Man-child Jesus brought the unleavened bread of the truth, confirmed with signs and wonders, which made Israel and her leaders responsible to repent or be judged, so it will be with the end-time Man-child and spiritual Israel. (Joh.9:39) And Jesus said, For judgment came I into this world, that they that see not may see; and that they that see may become blind. Simeon prophesied that the Man-child Jesus would cause both the reprobation of some and the grafting in of others. (Luk.2:34) ...Behold, this [child] is set for the falling and the rising of many in Israel; and for a sign which is spoken against. Jesus was also a “sign” that the end-time Man-child would bring the same judgment. As it was with Jesus and Judaism, the Man-child will be “spoken against” by the apostate “Christians”. Moses, as a man-child, brought the Law, which held the rebels responsible and brought judgment. (Rom.4:15) For the law worketh wrath; but where there is no law, neither is there transgression. What does the “white horse” represent? As the mind of man uses his body as a beast of burden to do his work, so the horse is harnessed as a beast of burden to do his work. The horse represents the body God uses to do His work. (Psa.147:10) He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: He taketh no pleasure in the legs of a man. This verse could well fit the other horse riders in Revelation 6, but to ride a “white” horse symbolizes completely harnessing the strength of your body and mind to do “righteous” work. The horse carries the rider like the “legs of a man” carry the Man-child. Overcomers ride white horses because their body submits to the spiritual man who submits to the Holy Spirit. The Man-child will be the First-fruits of Jesus ruling the white horse in our day, and the elect of the Woman will also follow their Lord on white horses to finish off the judgment after the Tribulation. (Rev.19:11) And I saw the heaven opened; and behold, a white horse, and he that sat thereon called Faithful and True; and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. (14) And the armies which are in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white [and] pure. Just as the latter rain outpouring of the Spirit on the Man-child will harness his body as a white horse, so through the next three seal judgments, evil spirits will ride upon the beast of the flesh of men to bring these curses upon the earth. The difference between the Man-child and the rest of the riders is that he is the one who looses these judgments as did Jesus, Moses, and Jeremiah. (Rev.6:3) And when he opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature saying, Come. (4) And another [horse] came forth, a red horse: and to him that sat thereon it was given to take peace from the earth, and that they should slay one another: and there was given unto him a great sword. (5) And when he opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature saying, Come. And I saw, and behold, a black horse; and he that sat thereon had a balance in his hand. (6) And I heard as it were a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, A measure of wheat for a shilling, and three measures of barley for a shilling (famine); and the oil and the wine hurt thou not. (7) And when he opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature saying, Come. (8) And I saw, and behold, a pale horse: and he that sat upon him, his name was Death; and Hades followed with him. And there was given unto them authority over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with famine, and with death, and by the wild beasts of the earth. Remember that Jesus said, “I have given you authority...over all the power of the enemy” (Luk.10:19). Authority in this case is the right to use the power of the demons. Twice Paul, by the power of the name of Jesus, delivered sinners over to Satan for chastening so that they would repent and be saved. (1Cor.5:4) In the name of our Lord Jesus, ye being gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus, (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. The Man-child will exercise “authority” and pass it on to the Woman to bring the same “sword”, “famine”, and “death” to those who return evil for good, in order to save a remnant of God's people from them. Much of this will happen after the mark of the beast when these people cannot be saved. Jeremiah was a type of the Man-child who loosed the judgments to come. (Jer.18:20) Shall evil be recompensed for good? for they have digged a pit for my soul. Remember how I stood before thee to speak good for them, to turn away thy wrath from them. (21) Therefore deliver up their children to the famine, and give them over to the power of the sword; and let their wives become childless, and widows; and let their men be slain of death, [and] their young men smitten of the sword in battle. Moses and Samuel represent the same type of the Man-child whose words and teachings to the Woman will bring forth the same judgments. (15:1) Then said the Lord unto me, Though Moses and Samuel stood before me, yet my mind would not be toward this people: cast them out of my sight, and let them go forth. (2) And it shall come to pass, when they say unto thee, Whither shall we go forth? then thou shalt tell them, Thus saith the Lord: Such as are for death, to death; and such as are for the sword, to the sword; and such as are for the famine, to the famine; and such as are for captivity, to captivity. Jesus, in His First-fruits Man-child, will send forth the disciples with the Word of God to bring the above judgments on the world. (Rev.6:2) And I saw, and behold, a white horse, and he that sat thereon had a bow; and there was given unto him a crown: and he came forth conquering, and to conquer. Notice that He has “a bow” but no arrows, meaning they have been sent forth. “Apostle” means “one sent forth”. As Jesus was from Judah and sent forth His twelve apostles and then the seventy disciples, so the Man-child is spiritually a corporate body from Judah and will be the “bow” that sends forth these “arrows”. (Zec.9:13) For I have bent Judah for me, I have filled the bow with Ephraim (Ephraim was called in Hebrew the “fulness of nations [Gentiles]” in Genesis 48:19 and represents the Woman or Church of all nations.); and I will stir up thy sons, O Zion, against thy sons, O Greece (beast kingdom), and will make thee as the sword of a mighty man. (14) And the Lord shall be seen over them; and his arrow shall go forth as the lightning.... (15) The Lord of hosts will defend them; and they shall devour.... As Jesus' disciples went forth to conquer the mind of the beast that ruled over the elect of God, so will the Man-child's disciples. (Psa.127:3) Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord; [And] the fruit of the womb is [his] reward. (4) As arrows in the hand of a mighty man, So are the children of youth. Jesus' disciples, whom He sent out like arrows, were His “children of youth” for He has had many since then. He called His disciples “children” in Joh.13:33; 21:5. In Isaiah's prophecy of the coming of Jesus as Immanuel, He called His disciples His “children” in Isa.7:14; 8:16,18. The worldwide Man-child will send forth the disciple arrows to conquer the flesh, the Beast, and the devil. (Psa.127:5) Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: They shall not be put to shame, When they speak with their enemies in the gate. The disciple arrows will go forth to conquer the “enemies in the gate” of the kingdom with the spoken Word. Jesus, Who was the Light and called His disciples “sons of light” in Joh.12:36, also said that the light would bring judgment when men denied it. (Joh.3:19) And this is the judgment, that the light is come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the light; for their works were evil. The Man-child and the disciple arrows will once more bring the light of truth, which will judge the world. This judgment will begin at the house of God and spread outward. As it was with Jesus, those who reject the light will be reprobated, while those who accept it will be the “sons of light”. Like the Man-child, Jesus spoke the judgment that the god of this world, who blinds the minds of the unbelieving, carried out. (Mat.13:14) And unto them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall in no wise understand; And seeing ye shall see, and shall in no wise perceive. The white horse rider will bring truth, which is the foundation for all judgment. Remember that Moses, who was the white horse of his day, brought all the judgments on Egypt. In fulfillment of that type, the Man-child will lead all the other judgment horses of Revelation 6 against the world. In her book Prepare for the Winds of Change II, chapter 1, Nita Johnson relates her vision describing the white horse rider's ministry. You will notice that it is the Word that goes forth from the anointed teachers of the end times, as they call the elect out of Babylon, and brings judgment or delivers from it. My notes are in parentheses. On January 10, 1990, I was granted a visitation by an angel. When I first saw this majestic being, I was awe-struck by his beauty, his power, and his obvious authority. He was dressed in a white garb resembling an old Roman military uniform. (This is the Roman armor spoken of in Ephesians 6:13-17 during the time of the worldwide Roman Empire.) His belt and type of breastplate were of gold. His whole appearance seemed to glow with the glow of heaven itself. He was riding an equally beautiful and powerful white war-horse. Both horse and rider were very large. The horse was much larger than any horse you and I would ever have occasion to see here on earth. It was indeed obvious that this incredible being was one of God's higher-ranking dignitaries. (The large size of the white horse implies a corporate body of people whose bodies have become submissive beasts of burden, or in other words, they have a holy walk. Since angelos is the Greek word for messenger, this large messenger represents Jesus on the corporate body of the Man-child.) I was frightened by the sight of him and would soon find myself quite distressed over his message to us. I first saw him as he rode this incredible white war-horse down what could have been any street in a typical subdivision anywhere in America. He was carrying a huge sword in his hand (This represents the spoken Word of God in Heb.4:12). This Instrument was actually long enough to be a lance, but its shape was that of a sword. With it, he would touch the roof of the houses on either side of the road out of every two or three he passed, thereby bringing judgment. He would declare, “Let the judgment fall from the greatest to the least of the unrepentant”. I then found myself standing at the end of this same street, watching intently and fearfully as this illustrious angel moved down the street in my direction. After every house that he cursed, he would proclaim warnings, as it were into the streets. “Great judgment is coming to the lovers of this world. Those unrepentant and cripplers of the children - fear!” Again and again, he would exclaim, “Babylon is falling! Come out; come out of her my children. Take nothing with you; only the clothes on your back and don't begrudge the cost. Judgment is coming at midnight. The hour is 11:55! I say don't mourn the loss, only come away: Come out of her. Run from the daughter of wickedness! Time is at an end. Judgment is sure...”, this he would cry out over and over again, as one would imagine a town crier doing, such as Paul Revere of old. He came to a standstill in front of me, sitting on his horse he spoke with me, giving me a great deal of instruction. Calling me by name, he said, “Nita, warn the people. Warn the people of the earth that judgment is coming at midnight, and the hour is even now 11:55. Everywhere tell them to heed the teachers. Heed my anointed, for their counsel is sure, and is the way of safety and life. Counsel is coming from behind the veil. Among other things, counsel concerning spiritual warfare. Government is again coming to the Church, and God is bringing forth the mighty men of valor to lead the Church forth in war. Tell my people; Heed the teachers, for their counsel is sure and will provide safety in treacherous time. Heed the prophets and apostles, heed my anointed, for their counsel is sure and a way of safety and life. (Jesus, as the Man-child was called Teacher, Prophet, and Apostle.) God will be lifting up specially anointed teachers, prophets of the Most High. They will be given the rod of government. They will carry the sword (as this angel does in type), bringing separation and judgment and will be healers of great breaches among My own. (They will be used to bring the true flock into one accord with their one Shepherd, Jesus, as He prophesied.) They will prepare the saints with battle strategy and equip them with the power of a mighty warrior, bearing the anointing to spoil. (They will bring judgment on the Beast and Harlot systems.) Heaven's government is coming in to separate, heal and lead out into strategic battle. These prophets will be teachers who will be given counsel from behind the veil. Counsel of superior wisdom and strategy for safety, unity and spiritual warfare. They will be taken into the secret counsel of the Most High to obtain what must be diligently taught to the elect. This counsel will provide safety in treacherous times. Don't mourn, only heed the voice of the Spirit of counsel and might. Tell my people to heed the coming anointed ones, tell them to prepare!” From that point, he began to share many things. He gave much instruction, much information and much warning. He finally told me I would find further understanding of these things in the book of Zechariah. “Study it, understand it, let the Holy Spirit give you much enlightenment in it”, he instructed. In closing, he said one more time, “Go forth now and tell the people of the earth. Warn them judgment is coming and it's sure.” Then he left, and I was alone in my room. Jesus manifested in these anointed apostolic teachers and prophets will be the foundation for God's plan to “restore thy judges as at the first, and thy counsellors as at the beginning: afterward thou shalt be called the city of righteousness, a faithful town” (Isa.1:26). One more thing: I believe there is a parallel interpretation     of the White Horse Rider and his White Horse. That is the rider is Jesus in the Man-child and the white horse is their submissive and holy body. For instance, Jesus' body was submissive to His spirit man as is so with the Man-child body. I have taught this elsewhere.

Anchored in the Word Morning Reflection: Season 4 Episode 185 Immaturity, Stumbling, and God's Grace: Application Luke 22:23-34 #morningreflections #grace #immaturity #stumbling

Anchored in the Word Morning Reflection: Season 4 Episode 184 Immaturity, Stumbling, and God's Grace: Conversion Luke 22:23-34 #morningreflections #grace #immaturity #stumbling

Anchored in the Word Morning Reflection: Season 4 Episode 183 Immaturity, Stumbling, and God's Grace: Comfort Luke 22:23-34 #morningreflections #grace #immaturity #stumbling

Anchored in the Word Morning Reflection: Season 4 Episode 182 Immaturity, Stumbling, and God's Grace: Contrast Luke 22:23-34 #morningreflections #grace #immaturity #stumbling

Anchored in the Word Morning Reflection: Season 4 Episode 181 Immaturity, Stumbling, and God's Grace: Context Luke 22:23-34 #morningreflections #grace #immaturity #stumbling

In episode 141 of The Puddcast, I discuss the process of growing into wise and gracious elders, with the remarkable David Tensen. A chaplain, poet, business researcher and more, David's latest book Decenter Everything examines what happened to our elders and how we can become people with “fat souls,” able to provide non-judgemental companionship to others by decentering ourselves (and our ideologies, etc.). We reflect on moving into our autumn season, and even contemplate death and how Western aversion to anything to do with death keeps us from living presently.Order Decenter Everything: The Unconventional Approach to Eldering in an Age of Immaturity, by David Tensen.Learn more about David's poetry, research and other writings at davidtensen.com.Support the show and my other work, at jonathanpuddle.com/supportCheck out my trauma-informed 30-day devotional, You Are Enough: Learning to Love Yourself the Way God Loves You.Grab my latest book, Mornings with God: Daily Bible Devotional for Men (good for women too)Find every book or resource I've talked about recently on my Amazon storefront, in Canada, the United States or the United Kingdom.

EPISODE 284 R&B GREAT SHIRLEY JONES AND THE “GOOD STUFF” . Summary . In this episode, the hosts celebrate the birthday and new music from Shirley Jones (“Good Stuff”), discuss the rise of Southern Soul and its roots in R&B, and explore the challenges faced by seasoned artists in today's music market. They highlight young talent, emphasize the importance of storytelling in music, and address issues of censorship and free speech in the media. The conversation also touches on celebrity news, the state of reboots in entertainment, and the significance of Broadway revivals. Overall, the episode reflects on the evolving landscape of music and culture. . Chapters . 00:00 Planning for the Upcoming Performance 01:15 Introduction of Shirley Jones and Her New Single 02:31 Exploring Southern Soul and Its Popularity 05:05 Balancing Signature Sound with New Trends 07:58 Challenges for Seasoned Artists in Today's Market 09:44 Younger Artists Making an Impact 10:54 The Importance of Storytelling in Music 12:35 Shirley Jones' Upcoming Events and Celebrations 14:15 Advice for the Next Generation of Artists 15:48 Reflections on Longevity in the Music Industry 18:14 The Evolution of Black Music and Its Influences 20:57 The Impact of Politics on Broadcasting 23:59 Censorship and Free Speech in Media 26:41 The Immaturity of Political Censorship 29:10 The Role of Money in Media and Politics 32:35 Reigniting the Base 33:48 Protests and Public Sentiment 34:54 Celebrity News and Updates 38:26 Cardi B's New Album and Personal Life 41:40 Chris Brown's Break from Social Media 43:08 Reboots and Originality in Entertainment 46:01 Broadway Revivals and Casting Challenges 49:24 Final Thoughts and Reflections . #ShirleyJones #SouthernSoul #RNB #musicindustry #storytelling #censorship #freespeech #celebritynews #Broadway #reboot

The Mature Embrace Christ-Centered Wisdom . . . I. Comes from Revelation not Discovery! (2:9-13) II. Should be Progressive; beware of Stalling! (2:14-3:2) III. Can be Tested; Wisdom always Acts! (3:3-4) Practical Implications o What are some of your areas of maturity? Immaturity? o What is your plan to progress or keep progressing? o Where is the flesh still dominant in your life? The Spirit?

Words to Live ByNever short sell an immeasurably more God.Never underestimate the power of a simple prayer offered on behalf of a complex situation.Never dismiss the impact of obedience (or disobedience).This week our word is… Never be afraid of the repercussions of speaking the truth in love; one of those repercussion is freedom.The problem with avoiding conflict is that you actually live longer in the conflict than you need to and you miss what God can do in you and them as a result of a resolution. What I propose to you this morning is…God may have a purpose for your conflict. All of God's purposes are good.God will do something redeeming in your conflict if you trust Him enough to follow Him through it.Conflict can be a path to freedom for both parties if both parties cooperate. Replace “winning or avoiding” with freedom as your new frame for conflict. Never be afraid of the repercussions of speaking the truth in love; one of those repercussion is freedom (redemption). If you just want the conflict to be over you will leave a lot of restoration on the table. Conflict is a freedom opportunity.Changing your perception of conflict will change the way you process conflict.Ephesians 4:1-6, 11-16 (NIV + CAV) As a prisoner for the Lord [bound by His words, way and will], then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love [agape selfless all in love]. 3 Make every effort [implies consistent work] to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. [we are all under this one banner of the Lordship of Christ.] 11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. [End goal freedom = fullness. For me to be full of Christ I have to get rid of the stuff that isn't Christ] 14 Then [when we are free and full] we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.Spiritual Unity and Spiritual Maturity are two of God's primary objectives for the Body of Christ. This means they are Word directed and Spirit empowered BUT they are only accomplished with our cooperation. Disunity and Immaturity are opponents to freedom and wholeness in Christ. Satan's objective with conflict is separation and there is no shortage of opportunity for conflict. God's objective is freedom and this verse gives us the way towards conflict redemption… “speak the truth in love”. Truthing isn't the idea of “getting something off my chest” or “telling it like it is”. Truthing's purpose is freedom and its manner is agape love. Are you truthing in love in your conflict? Being a Christian and being a part of a church doesn't mean we have arrived, it means we are arriving – we are walking together. Freedom is the motivation. Truthing is the manner. Face to Face is the Method. Matthew 18:15 (NIV) 15 “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.The Biblical method to conflict redemption is to go in person. The quicker you GO the quicker the potential is for redemption and restoration. The longer you let it sit, it doesn't sit, it burrows. An early “face to face” short circuits at least 3 things that complicate conflict redemption. Contamination. Infection. Posse building. Winning a conflict is not ending up on top or having the most people on your side, winning is mutual freedom. Matthew 18:16 (NIV) 16 But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'Why the press from Jesus? Jesus understands broken human nature better than anyone. Jesus understands more than we do the value of relationships to our wholeness and maturity. Jesus is more invested in this “freedom outcome” than we are – He died for it.Matthew 18:17 (NIV) 17 If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector. It is possible to agree to disagree and still be able to work on the same mission with the same passion… but it's not possible within the Body of Christ to hold animosity towards or withhold forgiveness from someone. If love, humility and unity wasn't such a priority for the Body of Christ, Christ wouldn't confront conflict so boldly. Freedom is the motive. Truthing in love is the manner. Face to Face is the method.Matthew 5:9 (NIV) Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.Freedom is the motivation – not avoiding or winning.Truthing in love is the manner – not accusation.Face to Face is the method – not posse building.Your freedom doesn't rest in the outcome (the hands of someone else) your freedom rests in your obedience, faith, trust, movement in the word of God.

Immaturity is one of the glaring problems facing the church in our country right now. Immaturity. Christian immaturity. Christians acting immature. There are far too many who claim to be Christian, standing in their highchairs with nothing on but a diaper, demanding dessert right here and right now. Christians who have not and are not, allowing the gospel to penetrate their pathologies and transform them into a new person who increasingly thinks, feels, acts, reacts, chooses, and responds the way Jesus would if he were in their shoes and in their situation. 

Try your luck and knowkedge - https://www.skool.com/gmp-vips-1236/portuguese-citiensipBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-good-morning-portugal-podcast-with-carl-munson--2903992/support.Let us help you find YOUR home in Portugal...Whether you are looking to BUY, RENT or SCOUT, reach out to Carl Munson and connect with the biggest and best network of professionals that have come together through Good Morning Portugal! over the last five years that have seen Portugal's meteoric rise in popularity.Simply contact Carl by phone/WhatsApp on (00 351) 913 590 303, email carl@carlmunson.com or enter your details

00:01 – Correction as Wisdom Proverbs 12:1: Why correction feels like attack but leads to growth—spiritually, relationally, financially. 02:10 – Correction = Love & Belonging Hebrews 12:5–6; Proverbs 3:11–12; Revelation 3:19: Discipline shows love; reproof affirms sonship. 05:05 – Punishment vs Discipline Punishment looks back; discipline looks forward. John 15:2: Pruning reveals potential. 07:12 – Resistance to Reproof Pride, pain, and threat response. Hebrews 12:11: “Later” fruit comes from being “trained.” 08:28 – R-E-S-T Framework 11:30 – Biblical Models of Correction David/Nathan (2 Sam 12), Apollos (Acts 18), Peter/Paul (Gal 2): All rooted in love and truth. 12:55 – Signs of Maturity Invite feedback, thank correctors, self-correct. “Immaturity hears condemnation; maturity hears calibration.” 13:54 – Nightly Rhythm Confess, Consider, Commit, Cover. Anchored in Proverbs 9:9. 15:36 – Discernment: 5 Tests 22:35 – Quick Filter Is it Word-aligned, freeing, Christlike, from loving voices, Spirit-confirmed? 23:43 – Growth Posture: 6 Practices 24:14 Humility (Prov 11:2) 26:13 Identity ≠ performance (Isa 6; Prov 12:1) 29:34 Learner's ear + 24hr pause (James 1:19) 30:18 Build correcting circle (Prov 27:6) 32:29 Thank God + apply fast (Prov 3:11–12; James 1:22) 34:25 – Cost of Ignoring Correction 39:30 – Weekly Challenge Name one resisted area, ask for grace, act fast (Prov 15:32). 40:28 – Next Episode Teaser Diligence vs haste (Prov 21:5): Planning as wisdom. 42:12 – Share It Forward Subscribe, share, and help others avoid unnecessary frustration. — — — — — — — — — — Highlights From The Episode Correction is covenant love, not cancellation. God's discipline is proof you belong to Him. Pruning is for fruitful branches. If you're being trimmed, it's because there's more in you. R-E-S-T reframes reproof. A short, repeatable response prevents defensiveness from driving the moment. Calibration over condemnation. Mature hearts convert hard feedback into precise adjustments. Discernment matters. Use fruit, tone, Scripture, proximity and the Spirit's witness to sift truth from manipulation. Delay dulls the edge. Quick obedience compounds; wisdom grows where humility lives. Ignoring correction is costly—spiritually, financially, relationally and generationally. — — — — — — — — — — Practical Steps You Can Take Adopt the R-E-S-T response the next time feedback lands. Use: “Thanks for sharing—give me a moment to hear you properly.” Mine for the 5–10% truth even if delivery was clumsy; write that truth down and plan one next step. Run it through the 5 tests (fruit, tone, Scripture, proximity, Spirit). Keep Galatians 6:1 and James 3:17 nearby. Create gentle accountability: text one safe person your one change for tomorrow and ask them to check in at night. Nightly rhythm (3–5 minutes): Confess, Consider, Commit, Cover (message a safe person). Identity reset: When corrected, say aloud, “My worth is secure in Christ; this is calibration, not condemnation.” 24-hour pause rule: No defending or decisions for a day after tough feedback—pray, search Scripture, then act. Act fast, act small: One micro-obedience within 24 hours (apology, budget tweak, calendar block, restitution). Invite feedback on purpose: Ask two trusted people, “What's one blind spot you see in me this month?” Connect with RTB For podcast updates, exclusive daily devotional emails and more, join the RTB community! Sign up here: www.reasontobehold.com Got a question or want to share your thoughts and reflections from the episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact us: info@reasontobehold.com

As we have seen in our current series, many Christians may fail to grow up in their lives and in their faith. One of the root problems of modern Christianity is what Juan Carlos Ortiz has described as ‘The permanent childhood of the believer'. The apostle Paul understood that the various leadership roles in the church were to equip and mature the church (Ephesians 4:11-13).   Over the past weeks we have looked at different areas where we need to grow up. Now we conclude this series focusing on some more key ways in which we all need to grow up. These final 3 points bring us to a total of 18 areas of maturity which we will have covered in this series, in keeping with 18 being the age when you are considered an adult in the eyes of the law. Whether you or your parents like it or whether you feel ready for it, there very quickly comes a point when you can be entrusted with many opportunities and responsibilities, so you had better grow up. So, let's see these further points on what it means to be a mature Christian.  1. A mature Christian will serve others (Mark 10:43-45; Philippians 2:3) 2. A mature Christian takes responsibility for his decisions (Romans 14:12) 3. A mature Christian understands the role of parents (3 John 4:4; Colossians 1:9-10; 1 Corinthians 13: 11) Apply  1. A mature Christian will serve others (Mark 10:43-45). Jesus taught in contradiction to the teaching of this world which says that you live to satisfy your desires and dreams. When we come to Jesus, we find we are to focus on how we can serve and help others. Immaturity - self-serving and self-indulgent: The "gimme, gimme, gimme" philosophy is more prevalent in the Western community than we would care to imagine. We pray "God bless me, my family, bless my church, my group, my leaders, my job. God help me through this problem, this crisis, God use me.” It's all me, me, me…Many Christians approach God like a genie who will fulfil your wishes. However, Jesus was very specific in saying that the ways of the Kingdom of God are different. He taught His disciples to be servants, to help others first, support those in need, and to build God's house first. Maturity - serves others: In contrast to this, a mature Christian does “...nothing out of selfish ambition, vain conceit, but in humility considers others to be better than themselves” (Philippians 2:3). A mature Christian prays for and thinks about others first and tries to bless other people's families and groups. You look not only to your own interests, but to the interests of others. We shouldn't be waiting for the other person to act first: mature Christians don't wait to be served but look for the opportunity to serve others. When was the last time you served someone close to you, like your family, your leader or your neighbour? You can make the way in the busyness of home life to surprise someone with an act of service: don't wait until Christmas to help in the house with the big clean up or to prepare a nice meal for your family, or until your leader's birthday to say some words of appreciation. Don't wait until you've been asked to do something: excel with your attitude of service and your desire to help. Take time to pray for others, to share a word of encouragement with others. Charles Spurgeon said: “Hard work will do almost everything; but in God's service it must not only be hard work, but hot work. The heart must be on fire" To serve as Jesus did, our hearts must be in fire for Him.  2. A mature Christian takes responsibility for his decisions. Immaturity - someone else makes the big decisions: A baby, infant, or even an adolescent will not make major decisions on housing, finance or holidays. Those decisions are made by others. Someone else pays the rent or the mortgage, someone else decides where to go on holiday, where to stay. They simply go along for the ride. Someone else pays for the ticket. Some people's idea of discipleship would lead to the same situation. Many Christians make their decisions, but come to the pastor when the consequences hit, saying “pray for me, help me.” We need to know that we can chose our own decisions and must accept the consequences of our decisions (Romans 14:12). E.g. Lot in the Bible chose to leave his uncle Abram, a man of God, to pursue worldly wealth by moving his tents to the well-watered plain near the city of Sodom. But in the end, he got into big trouble and very bad company and had to be rescued by Abram. Maturity - you make the big decisions: Maturity means that as you grow up you take responsibility. You make decisions, you take risks, you face challenges, you launch out into the deep. You pioneer new ventures, not just looking to others to do so. You believe God for finance, not believing that others will supply it for you. You launch out in praying for the sick, praying for miracles, starting to use the gifts of the spirit that God has given you, and discover the ways the Lord wants to use you. Sometimes we haven't unlocked the next level in our spiritual life because of the fear of making mistakes. Start to trust God and get launched today. You can get your answers from God on the major issues in your life. There is safety and wisdom in counsel, but you yourself must hear from God.   3. A mature Christian understands the role of parents Immaturity - limited understanding of parent's role: A child can know the love of their parents, but know very little about them as people: their hurts, hopes, motivations, battles and victories. Dad and Mum are simply just there as dad and mum, or not there as the case may be, but parents are people too. Children think of parents as bosses, annoying people, useful sometimes (for car rides and as a piggy bank). Sometimes children think of them as enemies, or people who don't understand them nor see the world as they do. Something similar often happens with Pastors and leaders. But no good parents wish for their children to do badly or to make big mistakes. Every parent's desire for their children is to do good and to prosper, to see fruit in every area of their lives. Good Pastors and leaders only want to see every disciple prosper (3 John 4:4; Colossians 1:9-10). Maturity - close relationship with parents: As children grow up, they should grow to appreciate how much the parents have loved and sacrificed for them. They will discover that their parents don't just want to rule them, but to have a relationship with them, not just to feed them but to have fellowship with them. When children grow out of adolescence, a healthy parent relationship will mean that you see your parents clearly for who they are and you can get to know them as people. A mature person would understand that what we are made for is not just to function for God, but to be friends with God. Man's chief aim is to know God and glorify Him forever. More than that, God wants to know us and have fellowship with us. A mature Christian's life is therefore not characterised by rules, but relationship. We will reflect a heart of our father. A mature Christian will reflect his father in heaven, and his life will be lived to the father's pleasure and glory.   So here we come then after all these weeks to reflect on how mature we really are. It's time as put childish ways behind us (1 Corinthians 13: 11). So, stop acting like a version of Peter Pan. Grow up! God does not want us individually or collectively to be insecure, divided, competitive, disobedient or unruly. God wants a fully grown up, matured family. People who have come to wholeness in their relationship with God and one another. Where there was weakness there will now be strength. Where there were temperamental tantrums, there will be self-control and kindness and gentleness. Where we were exclusive, we can become inclusive. Where we were gullible, we will become wise. Jesus showed He can take hold of a bunch of immature young disciples and make them into a powerful apostolic company. So too God is raising up a church family in every locality and nation which He intends to be fully matured. And you can play your part in building and in being an ever-increasing blessing.  

As we have seen in our current series, many Christians may fail to grow up in their lives and in their faith. One of the root problems of modern Christianity is what Juan Carlos Ortiz has described as ‘The permanent childhood of the believer'. The apostle Paul understood that the various leadership roles in the church were to equip and mature the church (Ephesians 4:11-13).   Over the past weeks we have looked at different areas where we need to grow up. Now we conclude this series focusing on some more key ways in which we all need to grow up. These final 3 points bring us to a total of 18 areas of maturity which we will have covered in this series, in keeping with 18 being the age when you are considered an adult in the eyes of the law. Whether you or your parents like it or whether you feel ready for it, there very quickly comes a point when you can be entrusted with many opportunities and responsibilities, so you had better grow up. So, let's see these further points on what it means to be a mature Christian.  1. A mature Christian will serve others (Mark 10:43-45; Philippians 2:3) 2. A mature Christian takes responsibility for his decisions (Romans 14:12) 3. A mature Christian understands the role of parents (3 John 4:4; Colossians 1:9-10; 1 Corinthians 13: 11) Apply  1. A mature Christian will serve others (Mark 10:43-45). Jesus taught in contradiction to the teaching of this world which says that you live to satisfy your desires and dreams. When we come to Jesus, we find we are to focus on how we can serve and help others. Immaturity - self-serving and self-indulgent: The "gimme, gimme, gimme" philosophy is more prevalent in the Western community than we would care to imagine. We pray "God bless me, my family, bless my church, my group, my leaders, my job. God help me through this problem, this crisis, God use me.” It's all me, me, me…Many Christians approach God like a genie who will fulfil your wishes. However, Jesus was very specific in saying that the ways of the Kingdom of God are different. He taught His disciples to be servants, to help others first, support those in need, and to build God's house first. Maturity - serves others: In contrast to this, a mature Christian does “...nothing out of selfish ambition, vain conceit, but in humility considers others to be better than themselves” (Philippians 2:3). A mature Christian prays for and thinks about others first and tries to bless other people's families and groups. You look not only to your own interests, but to the interests of others. We shouldn't be waiting for the other person to act first: mature Christians don't wait to be served but look for the opportunity to serve others. When was the last time you served someone close to you, like your family, your leader or your neighbour? You can make the way in the busyness of home life to surprise someone with an act of service: don't wait until Christmas to help in the house with the big clean up or to prepare a nice meal for your family, or until your leader's birthday to say some words of appreciation. Don't wait until you've been asked to do something: excel with your attitude of service and your desire to help. Take time to pray for others, to share a word of encouragement with others. Charles Spurgeon said: “Hard work will do almost everything; but in God's service it must not only be hard work, but hot work. The heart must be on fire" To serve as Jesus did, our hearts must be in fire for Him.  2. A mature Christian takes responsibility for his decisions. Immaturity - someone else makes the big decisions: A baby, infant, or even an adolescent will not make major decisions on housing, finance or holidays. Those decisions are made by others. Someone else pays the rent or the mortgage, someone else decides where to go on holiday, where to stay. They simply go along for the ride. Someone else pays for the ticket. Some people's idea of discipleship would lead to the same situation. Many Christians make their decisions, but come to the pastor when the consequences hit, saying “pray for me, help me.” We need to know that we can chose our own decisions and must accept the consequences of our decisions (Romans 14:12). E.g. Lot in the Bible chose to leave his uncle Abram, a man of God, to pursue worldly wealth by moving his tents to the well-watered plain near the city of Sodom. But in the end, he got into big trouble and very bad company and had to be rescued by Abram. Maturity - you make the big decisions: Maturity means that as you grow up you take responsibility. You make decisions, you take risks, you face challenges, you launch out into the deep. You pioneer new ventures, not just looking to others to do so. You believe God for finance, not believing that others will supply it for you. You launch out in praying for the sick, praying for miracles, starting to use the gifts of the spirit that God has given you, and discover the ways the Lord wants to use you. Sometimes we haven't unlocked the next level in our spiritual life because of the fear of making mistakes. Start to trust God and get launched today. You can get your answers from God on the major issues in your life. There is safety and wisdom in counsel, but you yourself must hear from God.   3. A mature Christian understands the role of parents Immaturity - limited understanding of parent's role: A child can know the love of their parents, but know very little about them as people: their hurts, hopes, motivations, battles and victories. Dad and Mum are simply just there as dad and mum, or not there as the case may be, but parents are people too. Children think of parents as bosses, annoying people, useful sometimes (for car rides and as a piggy bank). Sometimes children think of them as enemies, or people who don't understand them nor see the world as they do. Something similar often happens with Pastors and leaders. But no good parents wish for their children to do badly or to make big mistakes. Every parent's desire for their children is to do good and to prosper, to see fruit in every area of their lives. Good Pastors and leaders only want to see every disciple prosper (3 John 4:4; Colossians 1:9-10). Maturity - close relationship with parents: As children grow up, they should grow to appreciate how much the parents have loved and sacrificed for them. They will discover that their parents don't just want to rule them, but to have a relationship with them, not just to feed them but to have fellowship with them. When children grow out of adolescence, a healthy parent relationship will mean that you see your parents clearly for who they are and you can get to know them as people. A mature person would understand that what we are made for is not just to function for God, but to be friends with God. Man's chief aim is to know God and glorify Him forever. More than that, God wants to know us and have fellowship with us. A mature Christian's life is therefore not characterised by rules, but relationship. We will reflect a heart of our father. A mature Christian will reflect his father in heaven, and his life will be lived to the father's pleasure and glory.   So here we come then after all these weeks to reflect on how mature we really are. It's time as put childish ways behind us (1 Corinthians 13: 11). So, stop acting like a version of Peter Pan. Grow up! God does not want us individually or collectively to be insecure, divided, competitive, disobedient or unruly. God wants a fully grown up, matured family. People who have come to wholeness in their relationship with God and one another. Where there was weakness there will now be strength. Where there were temperamental tantrums, there will be self-control and kindness and gentleness. Where we were exclusive, we can become inclusive. Where we were gullible, we will become wise. Jesus showed He can take hold of a bunch of immature young disciples and make them into a powerful apostolic company. So too God is raising up a church family in every locality and nation which He intends to be fully matured. And you can play your part in building and in being an ever-increasing blessing.  

People can lose their temper when things don't go their way, or don't happen in the time they want. That is when character testing starts. Many times, trials reveal the heart. As the saying goes: “the heart of the matter is the matter of the heart”   Over the past few weeks we have been learning about how to be a grown-up Christian, how to mature in our faith, and move to a new level of understanding (James 1:2-5). Through the Bible we find many characters that experienced this theme of patience in their lives, like Abraham, Moses, Joseph, David, and of course Jesus.   1. A grown-up Christian will learn to be patient (Galatians 6:9; Hebrews 6:12; James 1:3; Hebrews 12:1-2; Romans 12:12) 2. A grown-up Christian will practice discernment (Ephesians 4:14 NLV; Acts 17:11) 3. A grown-up Christian will persist (Philippians 2:12; Colossians 1:23; Acts 13:43, 28:14) Apply  1. A grown-up Christian will learn to be patient Immaturity – impatient: An immature Christian will be impatient, they like instant answers to their prayers. Everything must be done immediately. Many people say: "God, you told me you are going to bless me, I want everything you have shown me to happen today.” Charles Spurgeon said: “The waiting itself is beneficial to us: it tries faith, exercises patience, trains submission, and endears the blessing when it comes.” When we look at the Bible, the translation of the word Patience from the original Hebrew means: slow to anger. So, patience is not only waiting, it is waiting with a good attitude (Galatians 6:9). Can you imagine a farmer sowing seeds and then checking the ground that same hour for the fruit? It's not logical. In the same way, we need to develop patience. We need to be slow to anger and to practice self-control. Patience is trusting God's timing, enduring trials without bitterness, and responding to others with grace (Hebrews 6:12). Maturity – patient: What are the testings in your life producing today (James 1:3)? It may be anger, frustration, sadness, hopelessness, disappointment, indifference, or even a sense of “I deserve this” which is condemnation. However, a Mature Christian will say “God, this is temporary, my eyes are fixed on you” (Hebrews 12:1-2). A mature Christian will see that patience is not just passive waiting, it is active endurance (Romans 12:12). Jesus was patient with His disciples when they didn't get it. Also, He was patient with sinners when they were lost and broken. The disciples were told to wait for the Holy Spirit. There were many questions, but as they waited and prayed, the Holy Spirit came.  2. A grown-up Christian will practice discernment Immaturity - easily influenced and a sucker for the spectacular: Immature Christians can be like children who are open to strangers, especially strangers who smile and gave sweets. That is why we tell our children "Don't talk to strangers". Why? Because they can easily be led astray. This is not new; this was a constant problem in the New Testament. False teachers arose who led the spiritually immature away. Today we see many people following the same pattern, looking for the next big trend, the next big event, the excitement. Children like noise and bright colours. Some Christians only really come alive when the circus comes to town. The bigger the build ups, the greater the hype, the more outrageous the claims, the happier some people are. All that glitters, however, is not necessary gold. Maturity - can discern between good and evil: Discernment is not human cleverness, it is Holy Spirit-given. It is distinguishing the voice of Christ from the voices of culture. When we become a mature Christian “Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth” (Ephesians 4:14 NLV). With countless YouTube sermons, TikTok reels, and Spotify podcasts, it's easy to believe whatever sounds inspiring. But be watchful of what you feed your mind with, be careful of what you see, hear and believe. This is very important. We read that the Bereans were eager to learn and were discerning so they opened the scrolls, compared the apostle Paul's teaching with the Old Testament, and checked carefully (Acts 17:11). Not to contradict what Paul was teaching, but they did this because of their desire to grow in faith and to be rooted in the Word of God. Discernment is not about being clever; it's about being close to Christ, the Good Shepherd, whose sheep know His voice. When you spend time in His Word, you learn to recognise His voice above the noise. 3. A grown-up Christian will persist Immaturity - easily discouraged and put down: Sometimes we can be discouraged when we don't see the fruit we dream of. Perseverance is not a virtue always seen in young children.  Maturity - not just consistent but persistent: One of the big words to the early church was 'continue' (Philippians 2:12; Colossians 1:23; Acts 13:43; Acts 28:14). Sometimes growth feels slow, but in Christ, every step of endurance is moving us toward maturity and victory (see William Wilberforce, John Wycliffe, William Tyndale). As mature Christians, we need the determination and to make the decision to not turn back, but to persist, insist and resist for the cause of Christ.  

People can lose their temper when things don't go their way, or don't happen in the time they want. That is when character testing starts. Many times, trials reveal the heart. As the saying goes: “the heart of the matter is the matter of the heart”   Over the past few weeks we have been learning about how to be a grown-up Christian, how to mature in our faith, and move to a new level of understanding (James 1:2-5). Through the Bible we find many characters that experienced this theme of patience in their lives, like Abraham, Moses, Joseph, David, and of course Jesus.   1. A grown-up Christian will learn to be patient (Galatians 6:9; Hebrews 6:12; James 1:3; Hebrews 12:1-2; Romans 12:12) 2. A grown-up Christian will practice discernment (Ephesians 4:14 NLV; Acts 17:11) 3. A grown-up Christian will persist (Philippians 2:12; Colossians 1:23; Acts 13:43, 28:14) Apply  1. A grown-up Christian will learn to be patient Immaturity – impatient: An immature Christian will be impatient, they like instant answers to their prayers. Everything must be done immediately. Many people say: "God, you told me you are going to bless me, I want everything you have shown me to happen today.” Charles Spurgeon said: “The waiting itself is beneficial to us: it tries faith, exercises patience, trains submission, and endears the blessing when it comes.” When we look at the Bible, the translation of the word Patience from the original Hebrew means: slow to anger. So, patience is not only waiting, it is waiting with a good attitude (Galatians 6:9). Can you imagine a farmer sowing seeds and then checking the ground that same hour for the fruit? It's not logical. In the same way, we need to develop patience. We need to be slow to anger and to practice self-control. Patience is trusting God's timing, enduring trials without bitterness, and responding to others with grace (Hebrews 6:12). Maturity – patient: What are the testings in your life producing today (James 1:3)? It may be anger, frustration, sadness, hopelessness, disappointment, indifference, or even a sense of “I deserve this” which is condemnation. However, a Mature Christian will say “God, this is temporary, my eyes are fixed on you” (Hebrews 12:1-2). A mature Christian will see that patience is not just passive waiting, it is active endurance (Romans 12:12). Jesus was patient with His disciples when they didn't get it. Also, He was patient with sinners when they were lost and broken. The disciples were told to wait for the Holy Spirit. There were many questions, but as they waited and prayed, the Holy Spirit came.  2. A grown-up Christian will practice discernment Immaturity - easily influenced and a sucker for the spectacular: Immature Christians can be like children who are open to strangers, especially strangers who smile and gave sweets. That is why we tell our children "Don't talk to strangers". Why? Because they can easily be led astray. This is not new; this was a constant problem in the New Testament. False teachers arose who led the spiritually immature away. Today we see many people following the same pattern, looking for the next big trend, the next big event, the excitement. Children like noise and bright colours. Some Christians only really come alive when the circus comes to town. The bigger the build ups, the greater the hype, the more outrageous the claims, the happier some people are. All that glitters, however, is not necessary gold. Maturity - can discern between good and evil: Discernment is not human cleverness, it is Holy Spirit-given. It is distinguishing the voice of Christ from the voices of culture. When we become a mature Christian “Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth” (Ephesians 4:14 NLV). With countless YouTube sermons, TikTok reels, and Spotify podcasts, it's easy to believe whatever sounds inspiring. But be watchful of what you feed your mind with, be careful of what you see, hear and believe. This is very important. We read that the Bereans were eager to learn and were discerning so they opened the scrolls, compared the apostle Paul's teaching with the Old Testament, and checked carefully (Acts 17:11). Not to contradict what Paul was teaching, but they did this because of their desire to grow in faith and to be rooted in the Word of God. Discernment is not about being clever; it's about being close to Christ, the Good Shepherd, whose sheep know His voice. When you spend time in His Word, you learn to recognise His voice above the noise. 3. A grown-up Christian will persist Immaturity - easily discouraged and put down: Sometimes we can be discouraged when we don't see the fruit we dream of. Perseverance is not a virtue always seen in young children.  Maturity - not just consistent but persistent: One of the big words to the early church was 'continue' (Philippians 2:12; Colossians 1:23; Acts 13:43; Acts 28:14). Sometimes growth feels slow, but in Christ, every step of endurance is moving us toward maturity and victory (see William Wilberforce, John Wycliffe, William Tyndale). As mature Christians, we need the determination and to make the decision to not turn back, but to persist, insist and resist for the cause of Christ.  

Some Christians have been saved for years yet remain stuck in spiritual infancy. This passage uncovers the subtle signs of immaturity that can hide behind church attendance and good intentions. If you're ready to trade the bottle for real spiritual meat, this sermon will help you spot what's holding you back and show you how to grow up in Christ.

For all the days we are alive should see ourselves as being ‘under construction' - daily being formed and matured in the Lord. Just as the apostle Paul taught (Ephesians 4:11-13), as Christians, our spiritual lives are not to stay the same, but rather to be constantly rooted and built up in the Lord, growing in our faith and increasing in maturity. We see some further areas to help us:  1. We need to grow up in our relationships (Proverbs 12:26, 17:17, 19:11; Colossians 3:13-14; 1 Corinthians 15:58 AMP). 2. We need to grow up in our responsiveness (Ecclesiastes 1:14; Proverbs 26:12, 3:7; Matthew 11:29;1 Peter 5:5; Matthew 7:24) 3. We need to grow in our reaction to discipline (Proverbs 12:1, 15:5, 3:11-12, 13:24, Proverbs 10:17; Hebrews 12:6) Apply  1. We need to grow up in our relationships  Immaturity – temperamental: Children are often very quick to both make and break friendships. They can go from having a best friend one day to not being friends with them the next. For a while, a friend is new and exciting, the 'flavour of the month' then they disappear. They can both make and drop friends easily, and be enticed by wealth, charisma and charm – how a person appears, rather than who they really are (Proverbs 12:26). For the immature Christian, there is no emotional balance or stability in relationships. They go all into the friendship, spending lots of time together and sometimes becoming inseparable, and then the total opposite happens when offence and unforgiveness enters and the friendship suddenly ends. Being temperamental isn't good for the person nor the people around them. Maturity – faithful: A mature Christian is faithful and consistent. They don't fly off the handle or cut off a relationship when someone says or does something they don't like or agree with. It's not that there are never any issues in their friendships, but rather that they know and put the word of God into practice on how to be a faithful person in their relationships (Proverbs 17:17; Proverbs 19:11). A mature Christian stays together in covenant relationship, even if disappointed by friends. They would rather overlook an offense than forsake the friendship (Colossians 3:13-14). Mature Christians are quick to forgive, valuing covenant friendship over any temporary grievance. They want to keep unity in the church family and enjoy the blessing of real, stable friendships, which is so different to how friendships often operate in the world. Covenant friendship is steadfast and enduring. You can count on a mature person to be faithful in a relationship and also to be faithful in whatever they put their hand to do – not just doing the minimum, but going above and beyond because it's the mature attitude of the heart (1 Corinthians 15:58 AMP). Are you consistent and faithful, or temperamental, being quick to make and break off friendships? Do you give your best to people, or try to get away with the minimum?  2. We need to grow up in our responsiveness Immaturity - needs repeated telling: Repeatedly having to tell a child reveals something deeper going on in the attitude of that child. Essentially they are not valuing the instruction of the parent and sees that what they're doing is more important. Often, immature Christians can be like the children in these scenarios being “wise in our own eyes”. We think of ourselves as being very busy, filling our lives with many activities but neither feel we have time to nor really value following the instructions God gives us. At the end of King Solomon's life, he recognised the fruitlessness of doing things other than God's will or direction (Ecclesiastes 1:14). Many times people want the overall direction of God for their life and future, but do not choose to follow the instructions in the Bible that God gives for how to we are to live every day. Even though we may have heard and read the 10 commandments so many times, do we ever lie, or want what others have, or put something or someone in first place of our lives instead of God? For the immature Christian, just because they know something doesn't mean they are actually putting it into practice – they'd rather do what they want (Proverbs 26:12). Immature Christians look around judgmentally at others without recognising their need to grow in obeying the word of God. There is a blindness to hard heartedness, which often makes them harder to work with than anyone else, yet they are more in need than anyone else (Proverbs 3:7).Maturity - eager to learn: In stark contrast to the immature Christian who needs repeated telling because “they are wise in their own eyes” The mature Christian recognises that Jesus said we are to learn from Him (Matthew 11:29). They don't need constant persuading but are ready to learn from the Lord, from their pastors, their spiritual leaders, and from anywhere and everywhere that builds them up in their faith and in spiritual maturity. A mature person can say, without choking, "I was wrong, please show me, please help me". They don't need repeated telling before they listen and obey. And they also don't pick and choose the scriptures they want to obey, rather they take the all the instruction of the Bible, not only the promises of blessing and help. They know that following God's instruction leads to life (1 Peter 5:5; Matthew 7:24) It's not that this always come naturally. It's a decision to be humble and not just dismiss things that might be challenging or uncomfortable but will grow us in our faith merely as ‘suggestions' or ‘opinions' - but to listen attentively and be responsive, to take it on board and be quick to apply it. So how eager to learn are you? Do you listen to the word of God quickly put it into practice?   3. We need to grow in our reaction to discipline Immaturity - fights shy of discipline: An infant or adolescent will often push to find their limits, seeing how far they can risk their way to prove themselves right or reassure themselves that “everything will still work out ok” to minimise any bad outcomes. An immature Christian knows there must be an oversight in their life, but wants to keep it to minimum – which can lead them even to present half truths or to conceal things. They want to get away with minimum accountability and maximum independence in case they are told something they don't want to hear. Immaturity means that if they can get away with something, they will, and if called to account, they will resent it (Proverbs 12:1; Proverbs 15:5). Rather than proactively seeking out spiritual cover themselves, for fear of being corrected or challenged, they will wait to be sought out by their leader. Even if a good and Godly leader gets too close for comfort, they are often quick to shout that it's "heavy shepherding" or the leader is being controlling, in order to take the pressure off themselves.  Maturity - loves discipline: A mature Christian loves discipline because they understand that Discipline is for our good and is a way of God showing His love for us as His children. They don't skim over the scriptures that teach us on how important discipline is for our lives, nor do they get offended when they are corrected because they know it's essential for them to be able to grow in maturity and Godly character (Proverbs 3:11-12; Proverbs 13:24; Hebrews 12:6). A mature Christian wants to build safeguards into their life. Contrary to what the world teaches, they seek out accountability from pastors, leaders and fellow Christians, and see correction as positive and not negative.   Would you say you are a faithful person or temperamental? Do you need repeated telling or are you eager to learn? Do you fight against discipline or do you love being corrected? These are not all easy things to hear, and our flesh doesn't love being challenged in this way, but understanding and applying this will not only help us to grow up, but will be a blessing to many others (Proverbs 10:17). As we grow up in the Lord, we will help many others encounter the love, life and liberty of Jesus as well. 

For all the days we are alive should see ourselves as being ‘under construction' - daily being formed and matured in the Lord. Just as the apostle Paul taught (Ephesians 4:11-13), as Christians, our spiritual lives are not to stay the same, but rather to be constantly rooted and built up in the Lord, growing in our faith and increasing in maturity. We see some further areas to help us:  1. We need to grow up in our relationships (Proverbs 12:26, 17:17, 19:11; Colossians 3:13-14; 1 Corinthians 15:58 AMP). 2. We need to grow up in our responsiveness (Ecclesiastes 1:14; Proverbs 26:12, 3:7; Matthew 11:29;1 Peter 5:5; Matthew 7:24) 3. We need to grow in our reaction to discipline (Proverbs 12:1, 15:5, 3:11-12, 13:24, Proverbs 10:17; Hebrews 12:6) Apply  1. We need to grow up in our relationships  Immaturity – temperamental: Children are often very quick to both make and break friendships. They can go from having a best friend one day to not being friends with them the next. For a while, a friend is new and exciting, the 'flavour of the month' then they disappear. They can both make and drop friends easily, and be enticed by wealth, charisma and charm – how a person appears, rather than who they really are (Proverbs 12:26). For the immature Christian, there is no emotional balance or stability in relationships. They go all into the friendship, spending lots of time together and sometimes becoming inseparable, and then the total opposite happens when offence and unforgiveness enters and the friendship suddenly ends. Being temperamental isn't good for the person nor the people around them. Maturity – faithful: A mature Christian is faithful and consistent. They don't fly off the handle or cut off a relationship when someone says or does something they don't like or agree with. It's not that there are never any issues in their friendships, but rather that they know and put the word of God into practice on how to be a faithful person in their relationships (Proverbs 17:17; Proverbs 19:11). A mature Christian stays together in covenant relationship, even if disappointed by friends. They would rather overlook an offense than forsake the friendship (Colossians 3:13-14). Mature Christians are quick to forgive, valuing covenant friendship over any temporary grievance. They want to keep unity in the church family and enjoy the blessing of real, stable friendships, which is so different to how friendships often operate in the world. Covenant friendship is steadfast and enduring. You can count on a mature person to be faithful in a relationship and also to be faithful in whatever they put their hand to do – not just doing the minimum, but going above and beyond because it's the mature attitude of the heart (1 Corinthians 15:58 AMP). Are you consistent and faithful, or temperamental, being quick to make and break off friendships? Do you give your best to people, or try to get away with the minimum?  2. We need to grow up in our responsiveness Immaturity - needs repeated telling: Repeatedly having to tell a child reveals something deeper going on in the attitude of that child. Essentially they are not valuing the instruction of the parent and sees that what they're doing is more important. Often, immature Christians can be like the children in these scenarios being “wise in our own eyes”. We think of ourselves as being very busy, filling our lives with many activities but neither feel we have time to nor really value following the instructions God gives us. At the end of King Solomon's life, he recognised the fruitlessness of doing things other than God's will or direction (Ecclesiastes 1:14). Many times people want the overall direction of God for their life and future, but do not choose to follow the instructions in the Bible that God gives for how to we are to live every day. Even though we may have heard and read the 10 commandments so many times, do we ever lie, or want what others have, or put something or someone in first place of our lives instead of God? For the immature Christian, just because they know something doesn't mean they are actually putting it into practice – they'd rather do what they want (Proverbs 26:12). Immature Christians look around judgmentally at others without recognising their need to grow in obeying the word of God. There is a blindness to hard heartedness, which often makes them harder to work with than anyone else, yet they are more in need than anyone else (Proverbs 3:7).Maturity - eager to learn: In stark contrast to the immature Christian who needs repeated telling because “they are wise in their own eyes” The mature Christian recognises that Jesus said we are to learn from Him (Matthew 11:29). They don't need constant persuading but are ready to learn from the Lord, from their pastors, their spiritual leaders, and from anywhere and everywhere that builds them up in their faith and in spiritual maturity. A mature person can say, without choking, "I was wrong, please show me, please help me". They don't need repeated telling before they listen and obey. And they also don't pick and choose the scriptures they want to obey, rather they take the all the instruction of the Bible, not only the promises of blessing and help. They know that following God's instruction leads to life (1 Peter 5:5; Matthew 7:24) It's not that this always come naturally. It's a decision to be humble and not just dismiss things that might be challenging or uncomfortable but will grow us in our faith merely as ‘suggestions' or ‘opinions' - but to listen attentively and be responsive, to take it on board and be quick to apply it. So how eager to learn are you? Do you listen to the word of God quickly put it into practice?   3. We need to grow in our reaction to discipline Immaturity - fights shy of discipline: An infant or adolescent will often push to find their limits, seeing how far they can risk their way to prove themselves right or reassure themselves that “everything will still work out ok” to minimise any bad outcomes. An immature Christian knows there must be an oversight in their life, but wants to keep it to minimum – which can lead them even to present half truths or to conceal things. They want to get away with minimum accountability and maximum independence in case they are told something they don't want to hear. Immaturity means that if they can get away with something, they will, and if called to account, they will resent it (Proverbs 12:1; Proverbs 15:5). Rather than proactively seeking out spiritual cover themselves, for fear of being corrected or challenged, they will wait to be sought out by their leader. Even if a good and Godly leader gets too close for comfort, they are often quick to shout that it's "heavy shepherding" or the leader is being controlling, in order to take the pressure off themselves.  Maturity - loves discipline: A mature Christian loves discipline because they understand that Discipline is for our good and is a way of God showing His love for us as His children. They don't skim over the scriptures that teach us on how important discipline is for our lives, nor do they get offended when they are corrected because they know it's essential for them to be able to grow in maturity and Godly character (Proverbs 3:11-12; Proverbs 13:24; Hebrews 12:6). A mature Christian wants to build safeguards into their life. Contrary to what the world teaches, they seek out accountability from pastors, leaders and fellow Christians, and see correction as positive and not negative.   Would you say you are a faithful person or temperamental? Do you need repeated telling or are you eager to learn? Do you fight against discipline or do you love being corrected? These are not all easy things to hear, and our flesh doesn't love being challenged in this way, but understanding and applying this will not only help us to grow up, but will be a blessing to many others (Proverbs 10:17). As we grow up in the Lord, we will help many others encounter the love, life and liberty of Jesus as well. 

In this series, the Lord is preparing each one of us to mature so that we will be more like Christ and be mature enough to model the right character to new Christians. People need looking after, they need feeding, they need support. And they cannot gain that from us if we cannot even do these things ourselves.     You can be a Christian for decades and still be immature, still battling with unrepentance, insecurity, comparison, or pride. But God's desire is for you to grow, to become steady, humble, wise, and fruitful. If we stay spiritually immature, we miss out. But even more than that, the world around us misses out too. So how do we actually grow up in our faith? How do we leave behind childish ways and become the mature Christians God is calling us to be?  1. A grown-up Christian moves from competing with one another to working together (Genesis 4:5; Luke 22:24; Mark 9:33–34; Romans 12:10,12:15; James 1:2-4) 2. A grown-up Christian moves from living as if they know it all to receiving wisdom and instruction (Matthew 11:29; 1 Corinthians 12:21; 2 Timothy 3:16; Psalm 1:1-3; Proverbs 12:15) 3. A grown up Christian goes from building cliques to opening their hearts to the whole body of Christ (1 Corinthians 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:9–10; Ephesians 4:14-15) Apply  1. A grown-up Christian moves from competing with one another to working together.Immaturity - constantly compares themselves to others and competes: You see this behaviour clearly in young children, especially siblings arguing and fighting. When one succeeds, the other might feel pressure to catch up or sulk because they feel they don't measure up. These dynamics are often quiet, but they can run deep. We read about this spirit of competitiveness when Cain compared his offering to Abel's (Genesis 4:5). Rather than learning from his brother, he let jealousy consume him. Even Jesus' disciples weren't immune (Luke 22:24; Mark 9:33–34). Just like siblings, they were still caught up in status. This same immature spirit can creep into the church, e.g. “My church / denomination / life group / family is better / bigger / more committed…” An immature Christian is threatened by the success of others, feeling insecure when others are celebrated. They sulk when others receive what they've been praying for. They care too much about how they're perceived in comparison to others. If you're single and someone else enters a relationship, if someone else gets promoted while you're still applying, or waiting for fruit in your ministry while others seem to be thriving, do you celebrate them, silently compare, or does envy creep in? The enemy wants to sow bitterness, insecurity, and division, and to crush your faith by preying on the seed of competitiveness. Maturity - moves beyond comparison and competition: They value the work of others, don't get insecure when someone else succeeds, and are not ruled by emotion, but instead learn from others, and rejoice with them. They don't see their brothers and sisters as rivals, they see them as partners (Romans 12:10). Stop trying to outdo each other, and start trying to outlove one another. This is maturity: Choosing faith and joy over jealousy and despair (Romans 12:15; James 1:2-4). A mature Christian is secure in their calling. They are not driven by comparison or public approval, they are driven by God's purpose.  2. A grown-up Christian moves from living as if they know it all to receiving wisdom and instruction.  Immaturity - acts like they know it all, they've done it all, they've got it all: They know the Bible better than anyone else, they understand praise and worship more than anyone else, they've seen more miracles, and they think they have more insight into what's going on than anyone else. They love to talk, but don't love to listen. Before you even finish speaking, they've cut you off! When Jesus invites us to learn from Him, He is calling us to a lifetime of humility and growth (Matthew 11:29). True maturity means remaining a learner for life. We can never take the ‘L plates' off as Christians. Yet many live contrary to this. They prefer to rely on their own knowledge, taking matters into their own hands and convincing themselves they've got it all figured out. Many Christians are building their lives ignoring instruction, ignoring the word of God, ignoring spiritual wisdom, confident they know better. Immature Christians have read the Bible, heard the sermons, attended the conferences, and now they believe no one can teach them anything new. They become uncorrectable, unteachable, the “spiritual expert” in every room they walk into. This attitude is deadly to growth. Many Christians live as if they are the only part of the body that matters (1 Corinthians 12:21). Maturity – gets wisdom and instruction to learn how to build the best life: A mature Christian hungers to spend time studying the Bible, applying its truths to their life (2 Timothy 3:16). You may read the Word, but do you know the Word? You may have read or heard it before, but is it inscribed on your heart? We must desire to unlock more knowledge from His Word, which is alive and active (Psalm 1:1-3). A mature Christian is eager to learn. They stay teachable. They receive correction from the Word and from spiritual authorities. They do not choke on the words, “I was wrong” or “Please show/help me.” They don't rely on old stories or past experiences to validate their present faith. They walk in humility and stay open to growth (Proverbs 12:15). We need to humble ourselves to be trained and to ask for advice. Remain teachable, living as a lifelong learner of Christ.  3. A grown up Christian goes from building cliques to opening their hearts to the whole body of Christ.  Immaturity - builds cliques: This is the type of thing you see in playgrounds and in schools, but it is even more damaging when it shows up in the church. It makes the church smaller and colder. It creates walls instead of bridges. Paul confronted the Corinthians for this and rebuked them strongly, saying they were acting like infants in the faith (1 Corinthians 3:4). We must not attach ourselves to one personality or one group and quietly shut out others. Immature Christians become so focused on their own ideologies and traditions and rules that it divides them from others. They say, “These are my people,” and close the door behind them. But in doing so, they divide the body that God has made one. An immature Christian cares more about who they are socially compatible with, who they can invite round, and who they can do different social events with, rather than reaching out to all types of people, supporting and loving them just as Christ loved us. Maturity - opens their hearts to the whole body of Christ: A grown-up Christian not only loves those who are easy to love, they value unity across differences and celebrate what God is doing in other groups, streams, and networks. Juan Carlos Ortiz, in his book Disciple, says, “God has only two groups, those who love one another and those who don't.” This is the heart of maturity: loving widely, well, and beyond preference or comfort (1 Thessalonians 4:9–10). We need to open our hearts to those we've kept at a distance. We must tear down the walls of cliques, favouritism, and exclusivity. We are called to love the whole church just as Christ loved us. We must not be the blockage when there are so many people who need to be part of the family.  Now is the time to put away childish things. Now is the time to grow up in love, in humility, in unity (Ephesians 4:14-15). No more competing. No more pretending. No more excluding. Stop trying to win every argument. Stop trying to prove yourself. You don't need to compare yourself to others, God has His own plan for your life. He wants you to live in harmony with your brothers and sisters. Learn to work together. Be humble and teachable: If we are to be fully mature in Christ, we must be open to training and correction, eager to learn from the word of God and our pastors, with humility, taking off the pride that resists God. Pray for a teachable spirit. That you will be a new vessel. That you will walk with the Lord, not dependent on logic or past experiences, but following his voice as he leads you. And be inclusive, breaking down exclusive groups that exclude others from joining in. Be open-hearted, living in brotherhood and partnership with those who are also in Christ. How much more can God do through us when we are more warm-hearted to others 

In this series, the Lord is preparing each one of us to mature so that we will be more like Christ and be mature enough to model the right character to new Christians. People need looking after, they need feeding, they need support. And they cannot gain that from us if we cannot even do these things ourselves.     You can be a Christian for decades and still be immature, still battling with unrepentance, insecurity, comparison, or pride. But God's desire is for you to grow, to become steady, humble, wise, and fruitful. If we stay spiritually immature, we miss out. But even more than that, the world around us misses out too. So how do we actually grow up in our faith? How do we leave behind childish ways and become the mature Christians God is calling us to be?  1. A grown-up Christian moves from competing with one another to working together (Genesis 4:5; Luke 22:24; Mark 9:33–34; Romans 12:10,12:15; James 1:2-4) 2. A grown-up Christian moves from living as if they know it all to receiving wisdom and instruction (Matthew 11:29; 1 Corinthians 12:21; 2 Timothy 3:16; Psalm 1:1-3; Proverbs 12:15) 3. A grown up Christian goes from building cliques to opening their hearts to the whole body of Christ (1 Corinthians 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:9–10; Ephesians 4:14-15) Apply  1. A grown-up Christian moves from competing with one another to working together.Immaturity - constantly compares themselves to others and competes: You see this behaviour clearly in young children, especially siblings arguing and fighting. When one succeeds, the other might feel pressure to catch up or sulk because they feel they don't measure up. These dynamics are often quiet, but they can run deep. We read about this spirit of competitiveness when Cain compared his offering to Abel's (Genesis 4:5). Rather than learning from his brother, he let jealousy consume him. Even Jesus' disciples weren't immune (Luke 22:24; Mark 9:33–34). Just like siblings, they were still caught up in status. This same immature spirit can creep into the church, e.g. “My church / denomination / life group / family is better / bigger / more committed…” An immature Christian is threatened by the success of others, feeling insecure when others are celebrated. They sulk when others receive what they've been praying for. They care too much about how they're perceived in comparison to others. If you're single and someone else enters a relationship, if someone else gets promoted while you're still applying, or waiting for fruit in your ministry while others seem to be thriving, do you celebrate them, silently compare, or does envy creep in? The enemy wants to sow bitterness, insecurity, and division, and to crush your faith by preying on the seed of competitiveness. Maturity - moves beyond comparison and competition: They value the work of others, don't get insecure when someone else succeeds, and are not ruled by emotion, but instead learn from others, and rejoice with them. They don't see their brothers and sisters as rivals, they see them as partners (Romans 12:10). Stop trying to outdo each other, and start trying to outlove one another. This is maturity: Choosing faith and joy over jealousy and despair (Romans 12:15; James 1:2-4). A mature Christian is secure in their calling. They are not driven by comparison or public approval, they are driven by God's purpose.  2. A grown-up Christian moves from living as if they know it all to receiving wisdom and instruction.  Immaturity - acts like they know it all, they've done it all, they've got it all: They know the Bible better than anyone else, they understand praise and worship more than anyone else, they've seen more miracles, and they think they have more insight into what's going on than anyone else. They love to talk, but don't love to listen. Before you even finish speaking, they've cut you off! When Jesus invites us to learn from Him, He is calling us to a lifetime of humility and growth (Matthew 11:29). True maturity means remaining a learner for life. We can never take the ‘L plates' off as Christians. Yet many live contrary to this. They prefer to rely on their own knowledge, taking matters into their own hands and convincing themselves they've got it all figured out. Many Christians are building their lives ignoring instruction, ignoring the word of God, ignoring spiritual wisdom, confident they know better. Immature Christians have read the Bible, heard the sermons, attended the conferences, and now they believe no one can teach them anything new. They become uncorrectable, unteachable, the “spiritual expert” in every room they walk into. This attitude is deadly to growth. Many Christians live as if they are the only part of the body that matters (1 Corinthians 12:21). Maturity – gets wisdom and instruction to learn how to build the best life: A mature Christian hungers to spend time studying the Bible, applying its truths to their life (2 Timothy 3:16). You may read the Word, but do you know the Word? You may have read or heard it before, but is it inscribed on your heart? We must desire to unlock more knowledge from His Word, which is alive and active (Psalm 1:1-3). A mature Christian is eager to learn. They stay teachable. They receive correction from the Word and from spiritual authorities. They do not choke on the words, “I was wrong” or “Please show/help me.” They don't rely on old stories or past experiences to validate their present faith. They walk in humility and stay open to growth (Proverbs 12:15). We need to humble ourselves to be trained and to ask for advice. Remain teachable, living as a lifelong learner of Christ.  3. A grown up Christian goes from building cliques to opening their hearts to the whole body of Christ.  Immaturity - builds cliques: This is the type of thing you see in playgrounds and in schools, but it is even more damaging when it shows up in the church. It makes the church smaller and colder. It creates walls instead of bridges. Paul confronted the Corinthians for this and rebuked them strongly, saying they were acting like infants in the faith (1 Corinthians 3:4). We must not attach ourselves to one personality or one group and quietly shut out others. Immature Christians become so focused on their own ideologies and traditions and rules that it divides them from others. They say, “These are my people,” and close the door behind them. But in doing so, they divide the body that God has made one. An immature Christian cares more about who they are socially compatible with, who they can invite round, and who they can do different social events with, rather than reaching out to all types of people, supporting and loving them just as Christ loved us. Maturity - opens their hearts to the whole body of Christ: A grown-up Christian not only loves those who are easy to love, they value unity across differences and celebrate what God is doing in other groups, streams, and networks. Juan Carlos Ortiz, in his book Disciple, says, “God has only two groups, those who love one another and those who don't.” This is the heart of maturity: loving widely, well, and beyond preference or comfort (1 Thessalonians 4:9–10). We need to open our hearts to those we've kept at a distance. We must tear down the walls of cliques, favouritism, and exclusivity. We are called to love the whole church just as Christ loved us. We must not be the blockage when there are so many people who need to be part of the family.  Now is the time to put away childish things. Now is the time to grow up in love, in humility, in unity (Ephesians 4:14-15). No more competing. No more pretending. No more excluding. Stop trying to win every argument. Stop trying to prove yourself. You don't need to compare yourself to others, God has His own plan for your life. He wants you to live in harmony with your brothers and sisters. Learn to work together. Be humble and teachable: If we are to be fully mature in Christ, we must be open to training and correction, eager to learn from the word of God and our pastors, with humility, taking off the pride that resists God. Pray for a teachable spirit. That you will be a new vessel. That you will walk with the Lord, not dependent on logic or past experiences, but following his voice as he leads you. And be inclusive, breaking down exclusive groups that exclude others from joining in. Be open-hearted, living in brotherhood and partnership with those who are also in Christ. How much more can God do through us when we are more warm-hearted to others 

In this week's episode, we talk about the Padres' trade deadline. We talk about being immature and we keep talking about it. 

It doesn't matter who the abuser is or was! Most people will never get an apology, that's why you must forgive them in your heart, and then forgive yourself for allowing hurt and pain to cause you to lead a dysfunctional life. Forgiveness is for you and your peace so that you can let go and move on!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/relationships-and-relatable-life-chronicles--4126439/support.

As a church, as individuals, and as families we need to learn how to grow up in our faith, moving from spiritual infancy to spiritual maturity. As we have already seen in this series, the New Testament gives very practical teaching to help us grow up in Christ (Ephesians 4:12-14; 1 Corinthians 13:11). We see some more areas where we need to develop ourselves into mature leaders who can in turn develop other mature leaders.  1. We need to grow up in our behaviour (Philippians 4:5; Hebrews 12:14; Numbers 12:3; Matthew 18:15-17, 5:23-24) 2. We need to grow up in the way we speak (Psalm 19:14; 141:3; Ephesians 4:15; 1 Peter 3:15) 3. We need to grow in our humility (3 John 9; Matthew 23:5-7; 2 Samuel 15:1-6; Philippians 4:11-12; Matthrew 20:28) Apply  1. We need to grow up in our behaviour. Whilst it is normal for children to have tantrums, we do not expect them from adults. Yet, although they may look different to childhood tantrums, we can have tantrums as adults in different forms. Immaturity - throws tantrums if can't have own way: Every child can throw tantrums including shouting, throwing, stamping, sulking, withdrawing etc. In church life tantrums may also take the same forms and also include quitting a position of responsibility in protest at a perceived wrong or slight, refusing to go to meeting, or withdrawing tithes and offerings. We see this behaviour in the Bible: Cain was “very angry” and sulked rather than address his emotions, ultimately murdering his brother Abel. King Saul regularly threw spears at David out of jealousy. The Israelites in the wilderness demanded food and water, blaming Moses for all their problems and hardship. The prophet Jonah became angry and resentful, wishing to die because God showed mercy on Nineveh. So how do we receive correction from God and even from our spiritual leaders? Do we have a teachable heart that wants to learn and grow, or is there an independent or argumentative attitude? Has this changed over the years or are we still the same? Have we matured and learnt over time? You can easily recognise if you or others have conquered tantrums. A tantrum thrower gives off a disgruntled air and makes sure that you understand that they are like a simmering pot ready to boil over thinking you may give into their demands. When a parent holds the line, it is because they want to teach, correct and train the child. It can be the same when God allows us to go through a particular circumstance. Do we have spiritual maturity to see and learn from it, secure in our faith that God turns everything to good for those who love Him? Maturity - retains a gentle and quiet spirit: The contrast is seen when you have a gentle and submissive spirit, displaying the character of Jesus and showing mature trust in God (Philippians 4:5; Hebrews 12:14). Moses was known for his strong leadership, but was also described as being very meek (Numbers 12:3). Maturity means you can entrust your case to God and rest secure in His plans. If necessary, you will get others to help sort an issue out (Matthew 18:15-17). But a mature person will not be robbed of tranquillity just because everything is not going their way, rather they will seek the Lord for guidance and His wisdom to deal with conflict or difficult situations to ensure resolution and reconciliation is achieved (Matthew 5:23-24). Spiritual maturity means that we trust our leaders because we know their heart. We may not always understand every decision, but we know that they are for us not against us, and that our development is their priority.  2. We need to grow up in the way we speak. Whilst we know and expect limited vocabulary from children, we need to mature in how we use our words and speech.  Immaturity - limited vocabulary: For babies, it's saying ‘mama, dada'. In church life, it takes the form of the same prayers, the same basic words in evangelism, the same arguments about why you can't do something or move on. It can be self-centred rather than focussing on God's will for your life. The same prophecies, the same preaching year after year.  Maturity - developed speech: Mature Christians can be specific about what you are thanking the Lord for. We all have so much to be grateful for and the Lord loves to see us be thankful in all circumstances. The Psalms are a great example of this, and Paul's letters often overflow with expressions of gratitude to God for the churches and individuals serving the Lord. And our prophecy will develop into something more specific and well rounded. It is a great privilege to speak into people's lives, and we need to grow in faith and prayer to ensure we are speaking God's word and not words based on our own knowledge or opinion. When you speak in tongues, it is important to move beyond the repetitive or familiar patterns. Let there be variety and depth in your speaking, preaching, praying, and communicating. As you grow, move beyond the basic utterances and early beginnings, progressing into deeper and more mature expressions led by the Holy Spirit. Maturity of speech means that we think before we speak. We don't rush in but open our mouths with wisdom; this is pleasing to the Lord (Psalm 19:14; 141:3). How and what we speak is so important not only to our loved ones but to everyone (Ephesians 4:15). Mature speech means that we can more clearly communicate why you are a Christian, developing how best to share our testimony (1 Peter 3:15). 3. We need to grow in our humility. That means that we move on from being so self-centred and focussed on our own ego. Immaturity - attention seeking: An immature person always needs to be the centre of attention, where significance and security comes from your position. An immature person is only happy when all eyes are on them or will think up some stunt or tantrum to get attention focused on them (3 John 9; Matthew 23:5-7; 2 Samuel 15:1-6). Attention seeking can also manifest in being disruptive, bursting into tears, storming out, or always arriving late. Attention seekers place too much importance on being popular, fitting in with others, and having their ego stroked.  Maturity - able to be content in obscurity: We may not always understand the situation or circumstance we find ourselves in but we can always trust the Lord (Philippians 4:11-12). To trust is a decision and one that demonstrates our maturity in faith where you can work away from the limelight and your security does not depend on what profile you have. You can take your place in the body, however insignificant that place may seem. You do not feel the need to dominate nor to have the final word; your security is in God and His plan and protection. You truly follow the Lord's example. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, yet he came to serve not to be served (Matthrew 20:28). You do not expect special privilege because of who you or your family are, but you have a humble attitude. Jesus was the awaited Messiah, yet he rode on a donkey, ate with sinners, and loved to be with ordinary people. Jesus didn't hang out with just the wealthy, rather He loved each person the same and showed no favouritism. And we must always give God the Glory. Even when we have played our part, it is only because the Lord has given gifts and talents that we can do anything. Whatever role you have as part of the body of Christ, work hard at it and follow Jesus' example. We all need to come to this new level of maturity in our faith to move forward as individuals, as families and as a church. Not to look at the past, not to carry the arguments, disappointments or the same old ways of doing and dealing with things. To do God's will and walk in His ways, we need this renewing of our minds, to surrender our will and become obedient to Him in everything. To move from immaturity to maturity is not only a learning and a development but a decision. 

As a church, as individuals, and as families we need to learn how to grow up in our faith, moving from spiritual infancy to spiritual maturity. As we have already seen in this series, the New Testament gives very practical teaching to help us grow up in Christ (Ephesians 4:12-14; 1 Corinthians 13:11). We see some more areas where we need to develop ourselves into mature leaders who can in turn develop other mature leaders.  1. We need to grow up in our behaviour (Philippians 4:5; Hebrews 12:14; Numbers 12:3; Matthew 18:15-17, 5:23-24) 2. We need to grow up in the way we speak (Psalm 19:14; 141:3; Ephesians 4:15; 1 Peter 3:15) 3. We need to grow in our humility (3 John 9; Matthew 23:5-7; 2 Samuel 15:1-6; Philippians 4:11-12; Matthrew 20:28) Apply  1. We need to grow up in our behaviour. Whilst it is normal for children to have tantrums, we do not expect them from adults. Yet, although they may look different to childhood tantrums, we can have tantrums as adults in different forms. Immaturity - throws tantrums if can't have own way: Every child can throw tantrums including shouting, throwing, stamping, sulking, withdrawing etc. In church life tantrums may also take the same forms and also include quitting a position of responsibility in protest at a perceived wrong or slight, refusing to go to meeting, or withdrawing tithes and offerings. We see this behaviour in the Bible: Cain was “very angry” and sulked rather than address his emotions, ultimately murdering his brother Abel. King Saul regularly threw spears at David out of jealousy. The Israelites in the wilderness demanded food and water, blaming Moses for all their problems and hardship. The prophet Jonah became angry and resentful, wishing to die because God showed mercy on Nineveh. So how do we receive correction from God and even from our spiritual leaders? Do we have a teachable heart that wants to learn and grow, or is there an independent or argumentative attitude? Has this changed over the years or are we still the same? Have we matured and learnt over time? You can easily recognise if you or others have conquered tantrums. A tantrum thrower gives off a disgruntled air and makes sure that you understand that they are like a simmering pot ready to boil over thinking you may give into their demands. When a parent holds the line, it is because they want to teach, correct and train the child. It can be the same when God allows us to go through a particular circumstance. Do we have spiritual maturity to see and learn from it, secure in our faith that God turns everything to good for those who love Him? Maturity - retains a gentle and quiet spirit: The contrast is seen when you have a gentle and submissive spirit, displaying the character of Jesus and showing mature trust in God (Philippians 4:5; Hebrews 12:14). Moses was known for his strong leadership, but was also described as being very meek (Numbers 12:3). Maturity means you can entrust your case to God and rest secure in His plans. If necessary, you will get others to help sort an issue out (Matthew 18:15-17). But a mature person will not be robbed of tranquillity just because everything is not going their way, rather they will seek the Lord for guidance and His wisdom to deal with conflict or difficult situations to ensure resolution and reconciliation is achieved (Matthew 5:23-24). Spiritual maturity means that we trust our leaders because we know their heart. We may not always understand every decision, but we know that they are for us not against us, and that our development is their priority.  2. We need to grow up in the way we speak. Whilst we know and expect limited vocabulary from children, we need to mature in how we use our words and speech.  Immaturity - limited vocabulary: For babies, it's saying ‘mama, dada'. In church life, it takes the form of the same prayers, the same basic words in evangelism, the same arguments about why you can't do something or move on. It can be self-centred rather than focussing on God's will for your life. The same prophecies, the same preaching year after year.  Maturity - developed speech: Mature Christians can be specific about what you are thanking the Lord for. We all have so much to be grateful for and the Lord loves to see us be thankful in all circumstances. The Psalms are a great example of this, and Paul's letters often overflow with expressions of gratitude to God for the churches and individuals serving the Lord. And our prophecy will develop into something more specific and well rounded. It is a great privilege to speak into people's lives, and we need to grow in faith and prayer to ensure we are speaking God's word and not words based on our own knowledge or opinion. When you speak in tongues, it is important to move beyond the repetitive or familiar patterns. Let there be variety and depth in your speaking, preaching, praying, and communicating. As you grow, move beyond the basic utterances and early beginnings, progressing into deeper and more mature expressions led by the Holy Spirit. Maturity of speech means that we think before we speak. We don't rush in but open our mouths with wisdom; this is pleasing to the Lord (Psalm 19:14; 141:3). How and what we speak is so important not only to our loved ones but to everyone (Ephesians 4:15). Mature speech means that we can more clearly communicate why you are a Christian, developing how best to share our testimony (1 Peter 3:15). 3. We need to grow in our humility. That means that we move on from being so self-centred and focussed on our own ego. Immaturity - attention seeking: An immature person always needs to be the centre of attention, where significance and security comes from your position. An immature person is only happy when all eyes are on them or will think up some stunt or tantrum to get attention focused on them (3 John 9; Matthew 23:5-7; 2 Samuel 15:1-6). Attention seeking can also manifest in being disruptive, bursting into tears, storming out, or always arriving late. Attention seekers place too much importance on being popular, fitting in with others, and having their ego stroked.  Maturity - able to be content in obscurity: We may not always understand the situation or circumstance we find ourselves in but we can always trust the Lord (Philippians 4:11-12). To trust is a decision and one that demonstrates our maturity in faith where you can work away from the limelight and your security does not depend on what profile you have. You can take your place in the body, however insignificant that place may seem. You do not feel the need to dominate nor to have the final word; your security is in God and His plan and protection. You truly follow the Lord's example. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, yet he came to serve not to be served (Matthrew 20:28). You do not expect special privilege because of who you or your family are, but you have a humble attitude. Jesus was the awaited Messiah, yet he rode on a donkey, ate with sinners, and loved to be with ordinary people. Jesus didn't hang out with just the wealthy, rather He loved each person the same and showed no favouritism. And we must always give God the Glory. Even when we have played our part, it is only because the Lord has given gifts and talents that we can do anything. Whatever role you have as part of the body of Christ, work hard at it and follow Jesus' example. We all need to come to this new level of maturity in our faith to move forward as individuals, as families and as a church. Not to look at the past, not to carry the arguments, disappointments or the same old ways of doing and dealing with things. To do God's will and walk in His ways, we need this renewing of our minds, to surrender our will and become obedient to Him in everything. To move from immaturity to maturity is not only a learning and a development but a decision. 

You're stepping into a powerful apostolic shift—where grace is not just a concept, but a lifestyle. In this revelatory teaching, I walk you through how grace completes what the law never could, and how faith keeps grace active in your life. When grace and faith function together, they unlock a supernatural lifestyle full of victory, peace, and divine performance—exactly as Jesus lived it. You'll learn that grace is not about trying harder, but about believing deeper. It's already finished—grace is the rim of the finish. As you listen, expect transformation. Immaturity ends, spiritual maturity begins, and limitations fall off your life. You'll discover that your infirmities are divine setups to connect with the power of God, and that grace wisdom is your portion now. This message is not just inspiration—it's activation. Welcome to the full grace lifestyle. Let the grace flow.July 30, 2025 | WEDNESDAY PMMidweek Service⁠Leroy Thompson TV FULL VIDEO LINK - Holy Spirit, Teach Us The Grace Lifestyle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://leroythompson.tv/programs/wed072325⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CONNECT NOW - BECOME A PARTNER ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.eiwm.org/partnership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | or TEXT "Connect" to 225-230-2234 To GIVE/SOW click the link below! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.eiwm.org/give⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | or TEXT "Sow" to 225-230-2234TESTIMONY?Email your testimonies to victory@eiwm.orgMORE LINKS⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/drleroysr⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#grace

If a person doesn't want you life isn't over! Stop allowing negative thoughts to cause you to act out! If you give power to negative thoughts they can consume and control you! Love yourself enough to know when you need to move on! Love yourself enough to not want someone who doesn't want you! Love yourself enough to be the best you can be! Many people never get to the level of maturity they deserve, because they're in their own way and their worst enemy is their mindset! You can't grow or become the best you can be by remaining the same!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/relationships-and-relatable-life-chronicles--4126439/support.

Episode 200: What makes someone an adult? Is it a job? A mortgage? A family? Or something harder to define, like emotional maturity or civic contribution? In this 200th episode of The Ethical Life podcast, hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada explore how our expectations around growing up have shifted and whether the long arc toward independence seen in younger generations is a sign of thoughtful living or a troubling retreat from responsibility. Rada reflects on his eagerness as a child to do things independently and how that shaped his adult identity. Kyte shares a contrasting view: as a teenager, he felt apprehensive about the demands of adulthood, even as he took on responsibilities like ski patrol work at the age of 16. That contrast sets the stage for a wide-ranging conversation about why some people seem to rush toward maturity while others hold back. The episode touches on parenting styles, changing economic conditions, birth order and the influence of trauma — all factors that can shape when and how someone begins to take ownership of their life. But it also dives into the ethical implications: Do we owe it to our communities to “grow up” on a socially accepted timeline? Or is it fair — even wise — to proceed at your own pace? Along the way, they discuss the story of a 27-year-old “Jeopardy!” contestant who described himself as a “stay-at-home son,” raising questions about whether clever labels obscure real consequences. When does personal choice cross into social withdrawal? As always, the show ends with an ethical dilemma. This week’s question: Should a stranger ever step in to correct someone else’s child? What about another adult? A conversation that starts with a 4-year-old’s foot on a train seat reveals much deeper attitudes about authority, community and accountability.

In this conversation, Ted explores the evolving concept of masculinity in contemporary society, discussing the cultural, social, and political influences that shape male identity. They highlight the challenges young men face in finding role models and the impact of social media on perceptions of masculinity. The discussion also touches on the political landscape, examining how different parties address or fail to address the needs of men today. Ultimately, the conversation seeks to understand the future of masculinity and the importance of community and support in navigating modern relationships. In this conversation, the speakers explore the evolving concept of masculinity, emphasizing the importance of social value and societal frameworks in defining what it means to be a man. They discuss the consequences of a lack of guidance for young men, the need for strong male role models, and the balance between strength and responsibility.TakeawaysThe left has largely undermined the idea of masculinity.Change is inevitable, but growth is optional.Young men often feel pressured to hold onto their youth.Human beings need something to aim for to motivate themselves.Social media influences perceptions of masculinity.There is a lack of viable role models for young men today.The Republican Party offers a traditional view of masculinity.Cultural narratives shape young men's aspirations.The absence of positive male role models creates a vacuum.Navigating modern relationships requires renegotiating traditional roles. There's an appetite for a new model of masculinity.Men must create social value to be considered valuable.Identities are socially constructed and validated.A lack of guidance can lead to self-destructive behavior in men.Men need frameworks to channel their natural capacities.Strength in men should not be feared but guided.The dynamics of masculinity change with societal safety.Men must find purpose in service to their communities.Young men should seek to solve problems in their environment.Community and individual responsibility are intertwined.Connect with Dr Dante BryantWebsite: dbryan30Instagram: a_southernmanFree eBook Here: Mastering Self-Development: Strategies of the New Masculine: https://rebrand.ly/m2ebook⚔️JOIN THE NOBLE KNIGHTS MASTERMIND⚔️https://themodernmanpodcast.com/thenobleknights

Growth begins when excuses end. In this episode of Bandwidth, Dr. Gabe breaks down the top 10 signs that might be holding you back from success, emphasizing the importance of ownership, discipline, and personal growth. With honest insight and practical advice, he guides listeners through real-world habits and mindsets to watch out for—and how to shift toward a path of purpose and achievement. Don't miss this eye-opening reality check on what it takes to thrive.Need relationship advice? Text Dr. Gabe. Text bandwidth to 94000 to stay up-to-date on all things Bandwidth.Gabriel Powell MerchUse the code BAND10 for 10% off.WebsiteSupport the Bandwidth PodcastCash App $bandwidthpodcastConnect with Bandwidth Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Twitter Connect with Dr. GabeInstagram | YouTube | WebsiteIf you are interested in advertising on this podcast or having Dr. Gabe as a guest on your Podcast, Radio Show, or TV Show, reach out to info@gabrielpowell.co

David Tensen is passionate about helping individuals, families and organisations thrive. His latest book is Decenter Everything: The Unconventional Approach to Eldering in an Age of Immaturity. He brings together a unique fusion of experience across business, leadership, creativity, emotional health and spiritual development. David and wife Natalie have three children and live on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. David is a PhD Candidate, exploring small business education and has over 30 years of workplace experience, specialising in non-for-profit organisations. Today, when he's not researching or working as an Aged Care Chaplain, David spends his time writing, volunteering, playing boardgames, collecting typewriters and spending time with family and friends.

Today, I'm talking about the adult immaturity problem — yeah, us adults need to take a hard look at ourselves. We adults are letting down the younger generation because many of us act like we're their age instead of being the grown-ups they can look up to. We're acting like kids when we should be leading. In this episode, I explain how we're messing up and share some ideas on how we can fix it. If we don't step up, who will? Show Notes:  [02:26]#1 You cannot cut yourself off from information or resources just because you have a supposed personal issue with the source of information or with the information itself.  [08:40]#2 You've got to break out of your information tribe and listen to people you don't agree with.. [13:20]#3 Opportunity in life is always in the opposites and understanding the opportunities in the opposites.  [16:38]Recap Episodes Mentioned: 2337: Eat The Meat, Spit Out The Bones 1605: How Adults Have FAILED The Youth 1025: The Opportunity Is In The Opposites Next Steps: ---

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Most people don't love themselves because they've never allowed healing in their lives. Therefore, they don't know their worth or understand what they need for self. They will go through life choosing people and things that are no good for them. No growth means no self-love or mental maturity.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/relationships-and-relatable-life-chronicles--4126439/support.

The reality of IMMATURITY. Sluggish to hear.Useless to help.Untrained to discern.Recommit to MATURITY.The risk of APOSTASY.The makeup of the visible church. The mission of the church. The covenant children of the church. The warnings in the Word. The line of demarcation… at what point?The grace of pain.

JR opens the third hour of the show by discussing Earth's population and how long we've been living on this planet before welcoming on Lakers Lounge host Anthony Irwin to discuss where LA goes from here after their first round exit. JR ends the hour by discussing JJ Redick's immaturity as a coach and the Giants plan for Jaxson Dart.

New reports claim Joe Milton III was "not a good dude." Is there any truth to it? Boston Sports Journal's Mike Giardi joined Andy Hart, Nick "Fitzy" Stevens, and Dan Bahl to weigh in — and to break down how the Patriots fared in the NFL Draft. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful and honest message, Co-Pastor Ezekiel Perez challenges believers to move beyond childish Christian behavior and embrace the childlike heart Jesus honors. Drawing from Matthew 18, 1 Corinthians 13, Mark 10, and Hebrews 13, he exposes the subtle ways immaturity can damage spiritual relationships—especially when believers passively challenge leadership to justify offense. This sermon calls the Church to grow, not by becoming hardened or guarded, but by becoming more loving, trusting, forgiving, curious, and hopeful. Whether you've been a passive challenger, a weary leader, or someone longing for a purer walk with Christ, this message invites you to spiritual maturity by returning to the simplicity of childlike faith.Co-Pastor Ezekiel Perez | April 8, 2025The Fountain Apostolic Churchone_ (2025)Learn more at tfachurch.com/plusChapters:00:00 Childlike vs. Childish: An Introduction03:04 The Nature of Childish Faith06:09 The Burden of Immaturity08:52 Building Bridges, Not Barriers11:50 The Heart of a Leader14:59 The Power of Childlike Faith18:04 Encouragement vs. Criticism21:03 The Importance of Trust and Openness24:07 Creating a Welcoming Environment26:51 The Impact of Immaturity on Relationships30:10 Healing Through Childlike Love33:25 The Impact of Hurt on Relationships34:06 Maturity and Childlike Heart35:39 Shifting from Toxicity to Tenderness38:02 The Power of Forgiveness41:40 Hope and Childlike Faith42:49 Embracing Childlike Joy45:50 The Role of the Church in 202549:10 Responsibility in Leadership56:41 The Lasting Impact of Our Words

Get a blessing by hearing the latest teaching from one of the services at Faith and Truth Assembly!

Send us a textIt's episode 273 of the Bare Marriage podcast! We found that certain beliefs are correlated most with emotional immaturity--passive aggressiveness; outbursts of anger; emotional dysregulation. In our research for our book The Marriage You Want, we found that when couples believe the husband should  have the tie breaking vote, they score lower on maturity.Is this because emotionally immature people are drawn to these beliefs? Or do these beliefs hamper maturity? Today we talk about why it's actually both, and what that means for our own personal responsibility.THE MARRIAGE YOU WANTOrder it on AmazonOther non-Amazon links! Send your pre-order receipts to preorder@marriageyouwantbook.com to get our pre-order bonus!TO SUPPORT USJoin our Patreon for as little as $5 a month to support our workFor tax deductible donations in the U.S., support Good Fruit Faith Initiative through the Bosko FoundationAnd check out our Merch, or any of our courses!Join our email list!THINGS MENTIONED IN THE PODCASTDownload our healthy sexuality rubric and see how the bestselling marriage books fared!Check out our post on why complementarianism is linked to emotional immaturity and toxic church culturesJoin Sheila at Bare Marriage.com!Check out her books: The Great Sex Rescue She Deserves Better The Good Girl's Guide to Great Sex and The Good Guy's Guide to Great Sex And she has an Orgasm Course and a Libido course too!Check out all her courses, FREE resources, social media, books, and so much more at Sheila's LinkTree.

We’re continuing our relationship series called Crosswinds. Headwinds give you lift, and tailwinds give you speed. It’s the wind that comes across that will take you out. The Kingdom of God is built on relationships, and if we plan to have a growing intimacy in our vertical relationship with God, we have to pay attention to the horizontal relationships we have with others. It’s important that we address the crosswinds damaging our relationships. In this series, we have been talking about three big crosswinds. If you eliminate these things, about 85% of your relationship problems will be solved. We talked about excessive alcohol and sexual impurity, and this is our third week talking about immaturity. In the Bible, Jesus is calling us to be child-like to make it in the Kingdom of God, but Paul warns us to grow up and not be childish. We have been learning that the difference is humility.

”I grew up thinking that Christianity was basically cruel and hypocritical.” “The core teachings of Jesus align very well with the core teachings of James Madison.” “That's why we need Christianity. It's not because we don't have reason to fear. It's because we do.” —Jonathan Rauch, from the episode We're at a crossroads, where Christianity and secularism in America are both operating at cross-purposes, and both need a critical reassessment of their role in democratic public life. In his new book, Jonathan Rauch “reckons candidly with both the shortcomings of secularism and the corrosion of Christianity.” He “addresses secular Americans who think Christianity can be abandoned, and Christian Americans who blame secular culture for their grievances.” Jonathan Rauch is senior fellow in the Governance Studies program at the Brookings Institution. He is the author of several books, including The Constitution of Knowledge: A Defense of Truth and his latest book (under discussion in this episode),  Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy. Follow him on X @jon_rauch. He is also a celebrated essayist, a contributing writer for The Atlantic, and a recipient of the 2005 National Magazine Award, the magazine industry's equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize. In this episode Mark Labberton and Jonathan Rauch discuss: Republican virtue What Jesus and James Madison have in common The political idolatry of secularism The differences between the thin church, sharp church, and thick church The political orientation of the church in exile Tyrannical fear The Morman church's example of civic theology “of patience, negotiation, and mutual accommodation” The promise of power in exchange for loyalty About Jonathan Rauch Jonathan Rauch is senior fellow in the Governance Studies program at the Brookings Institution. He is the author of several books, including The Constitution of Knowledge: A Defense of Truth and his latest book (under discussion in this episode),  Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy. Follow him on X @jon_rauch. Show Notes Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy The Constitution of Knowledge: A Defense of Truth Reasonable, civic mindedness “Graciousness toward a faith you don't share.” “Of course I knew I was Jewish. I also knew that the idea of God seemed silly to me. I just never, never could believe it.” The Rev. Dr. Mark McIntosh 2003 Atlantic article: “The dumbest thing I ever wrote” celebrating secularism in America (”Let It Be,” The Atlantic, May 2003) “ It turned out that when Christianity started to fail, people started looking for substitutes, because they were looking for a source of identity and values and transcendent meaning.” Political idolatry of secularism “A major reason the country is becoming ungovernable is because of Christianity's crisis. We can no longer separate the two, and that's why I, a very secular person, am writing a book about Christianity.” “Moving away from the teachings of Jesus…” “The core teachings of Jesus align very well with the core teachings of James Madison.” Mark's description of his father: “ My dad used to save certain neck veins for the discussion of religion because he felt like it was something that should be avoided, at that time, at all costs, particularly its most zealous kind. And his primary critique was that what religious people do is that they take great things and make them small. …   What shocked me when I became a Christian was this discovery that Jesus and my dad had this same theme in common, that Jesus often objected to the small making of various religious authorities of his day.” “God's capacious grace, creativity, purpose, and love” Will the church live in its identity as followers of Jesus? “Christianity is a load-bearing wall in our liberal democracy.” “Republican virtues” (not the party): lawful, truthful, civic education, tolerant, pluralistic Christianity's role in upholding the unprecedented religious freedom “When Christians begin demanding things that are inconsistent with those core values, that makes everything else in the country harder.” “The thin church is a church that blends into the surrounding culture and it becomes diluted.” “The sharp church is …  where the church takes on the political colorations of the surrounding environment, aligns itself with a political party.” Divisive and polarizing “The third is the thick church. And there, the challenge is that you want a church to be counter cultural. You want it to have a strong sense of its own values. Otherwise, it's just not doing the work. So it needs to ask a lot of its followers. It needs to give a lot back in exchange. That's what sociologists mean by, by thick communities and groups. At the same time, it needs to be reasonably well aligned with our constitution and our liberal democratic values.” Church of fear Fear of demographic decline Cultural fear and losing the country to the woke Left Fear of emasculation Plain old political fear: “Our side needs to win.” Fear as a major theme of the Bible Fear of God as “the beginning of wisdom” “A communion of unlike people. … A workshop in which the character of God … is meant to be learned.” Immaturity and lack of wisdom in the church “The chief defense of the faith in the world that Jesus died and rose is that unlike people find communion with one another in a union that only Jesus Christ's death and resurrection could actually accomplish.” “Tyrannical fear”—a drive for dominance “Fear is part of the human condition. Yet what's so countercultural about Christianity, is its teaching that you can't be governed by that fear. You can't let it run your life and go around in a state of panic. And that Jesus Christ himself had lots to be fearful of, as we know from the end that he came to, and yet comported himself in this calm and dignified way, did not let fear triumph over him. That's why we need Christianity. It's not because we don't have reason to fear. It's because we do.” “Fear casts out love.” Trump administration['s] … demonstration of a capacity to have literally no compassion, no empathy.” The paradigm of Exodus versus the paradigm of exile Isaiah 58: “ Now as strangers in a strange land in Babylon, I'm going to ask you: Who are you now? Who do you trust now? Who are you going to put the full weight of your life on now?” “Exilic Church” “ Christianity is not about owning the country or winning in politics.” “It can't be a coincidence that at a moment when (at least) white Protestantism in the United States is obsessed with political influence and has mortgaged itself to the least Christlike figure possibly in American political history (in any case, right up there) that its numbers are shrinking catastrophically.” “The irony of the cross always is this self emptying power.” [Trump] is saying, “I will give you power, and in exchange, you will give me unquestioning loyalty.” Comparing Trump's transaction (at Dordt University in Iowa) “If you vote for me, you will have power” with the temptation of Christ in the desert: “All of this will be yours if you bow down to me.” Transactional relationship with power The Mormon church's “ civic theology … of patience, negotiation, and mutual accommodation” Jesus: “Don't be afraid, imitate Jesus, and forgive each other.” Madisonian liberalism: “Don't panic if you lose an election, protect minorities and the dignity of every individual, and don't seek retribution if you win, share the country.” “When Gandhi was asked what he thought of Western civilization, he said, ‘It would be a good idea.'” Black church and MLK Jr.—”emphasis on Reverend” “You accept the stripes and the crown of thorns. You turn the other cheek.” Profoundly counterintuitive countercultural example Production Credits Conversing is produced and distributed in partnership with Comment magazine and Fuller Seminary.

Jase freely admits to some embarrassing things he does for the sake of the toddlers in his life, and Zach's old Disney reference has Jase jokingly sounding off about the problem with immaturity in grown men. Edward Graham, COO of Samaritan's Purse and son of Franklin Graham, gives an overview of the long- and short-term work his organization is doing for Hurricane Helene victims. He is proud of his crew's hard work and looking forward to aiding the people of Appalachia and Florida for as long as they need it. See how you can help Samaritan's Purse at https://SamaritansPurse.org today! In this episode:  “Unashamed” Episode 989 is sponsored by: https://preborn.com/unashamed — SAVE babies with your tax-deductible donation today! https://www.patriotmobile.com/phil — Get a FREE MONTH of service when you enter code PHIL or call 972-PATRIOT https://philmerch.com — Get your “Unashamed” mugs, shirts, hats & hoodies! -- Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices