Podcasts about christ god

You may already see your work, business, investments, and generosity as resources God has entrusted to you, but have you considered whether the work itself could be part of your calling? What might it look like to move beyond simply giving from what you earn and begin stewarding your skills, influence, capital, and everyday work as part of God's mission in the world? MEET YOUR GUIDE: Brett Johnson, founder of the Institute for Innovation, Integration, and Impact, has spent decades helping business leaders, entrepreneurs, and organizations integrate faith, work, capital, and calling. Drawing from his experience in business, church leadership, missions, Silicon Valley, and international development, Brett challenges the assumption that ministry happens primarily through churches and nonprofits while ordinary marketplace work plays a supporting role. Brett explores what changes when Christians begin with the assumption that they are called to work right where God has placed them. He shares how business skills can strengthen missions, how companies can be repurposed around biblical principles, and why generosity can include intellectual, relational, spiritual, and financial capital. He also describes a broader vision for Kingdom business and impact investing that addresses systemic challenges in cities and nations through sustainable businesses, nonprofits, and collaborative investment. By the end, you may see your current work less as something competing with your calling and more as something God can use within it. WHAT YOU'LL GAIN: Integrating faith, work, calling, and mission Rejecting the sacred-secular divide in everyday work Recognizing your current work as God-given calling Designing disciple-making into core business processes Giving everyday skills and careers a Kingdom purpose Stewarding capital beyond traditional charitable giving HIGHLIGHTS: “Don't try to balance things. I think when Jesus says in John 5:19, ‘I only do what I see the Father doing,' we have to develop a core competence to try to understand what God is saying, to hear what God's voice is in our particular situation.” “Just assume that you're called to work. If you're a medical doctor, if you're a school teacher, if you're an engineer, why don't you just start with the assumption that you're called to be an engineer or you're called to be a school teacher?” “Assume that the place where you are working now is where you're called to be, and figure out how you can extend the Kingdom of God, make God known, and demonstrate His goodness and His characteristics right where you are.” “You have to get on, actively work where you are with what God has entrusted to you, and assume that that's a good starting place, not waiting for instructions. We're not in the reserves. We're in active duty, all of us.” “The goal wasn't to get God into the business, but to get their business into God's business.” “We don't want to just make businesses more profitable, more godly, more righteous, more generous. We actually want to make sure that they are involved in completing the job that Jesus gave us to do.” “This is the way the Kingdom of God operates. It's not Boise or Bangladesh. It's both/and.” “God is an expansionist. And if God's in your business, He wants to expand it. So you've got to figure out how.” “We should be people who are looking, praying for the peace of the city that we're in, looking out for the good of the city.” “Some of them need financial capital, but some need intellectual capital, access to markets. Some of them need spiritual capital. They just need encouragement to be part of a network of people who are going to help them.” “My default is not, ‘People aren't getting proper nutrition, so we'll do a soup kitchen.' No, let's figure out a feeding business that actually does that.” “You have to measure in the long term.” “The premise is that God is good. Everybody has capital. Work is good. Everybody should work.” PEOPLE, BOOKS, AND ORGS: Brett Johnson's Website Brett's Books and Resources Global Giants Foundation Christian Business Men's Connection YWAM BIBLE REFERENCES: Luke 2:52 | Jesus Grew in Every Dimension “And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.” John 5:19 | Doing What the Father Does “So Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise.'” Luke 10:8 | Eat What Is Offered “Whenever you enter a town and they receive you, eat what is set before you.” Matthew 28:19–20 | Make Disciples of Nations “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Acts 1:8 | Witness to the Ends “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Mark 16:15 | Gospel to the Whole World “And he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.'” 2 Corinthians 5:18–19 | Ministry of Reconciliation “All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.” Ezra 7:6–10 | Ezra Returns to Jerusalem Nehemiah 2:11–18 | Rebuilding Jerusalem Together KEEP EXPLORING Discover more conversations, ideas, and resources to help you think intentionally about generosity, stewardship, and living with an eternal perspective. Visit Finish Line Pledge →

Every soul runs out of gas eventually — even the most on-fire faith cools without something to sustain it. This week, we begin a new series in the book of Hebrews, tracing one explosive claim: Jesus Christ is God's final word. Come discover why drifting is normal, why community isn't optional, and why the claims of Christ are worth testing for yourself.

Every soul runs out of gas eventually — even the most on-fire faith cools without something to sustain it. This week, we begin a new series in the book of Hebrews, tracing one explosive claim: Jesus Christ is God's final word. Come discover why drifting is normal, why community isn't optional, and why the claims of Christ are worth testing for yourself.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/family-devotions/20260916fam.mp3 Listen to Devotion Read: Ephesians 4:29–5:2 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 4:32; 5:1-2 A Striking Family Resemblance In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Do you resemble anyone in your family? Brothers and sisters often resemble each other. A child might have his dad's nose, his mom's smile, his grandpa's laugh, or even the same way of walking. Sometimes we sound or act just like our parents. People might say, “You can certainly tell whose child you are!” Can people tell whose child you are by the way you live? Honestly, because of sin, we don't always resemble our heavenly Father. Our words and actions are often cruel, selfish, and unforgiving. But in our baptism, God washed away our sins and adopted us as his sons and daughters. Through faith in Jesus, we are children of God, fully forgiven and made heirs of heaven. But can people see the family resemblance? Can they tell whose children we are by the way we act? Young children often copy everything: the way their parents talk on the phone, the way they fold their arms, the way they cook or clean or cheer during a football game. In today's reading, Paul tells us to follow the example of God our Father as his dearly loved children. God wants us to speak as he speaks and act as he acts. Just as he is kind and compassionate to us, just as he loves and forgives us—so he wants us to love and forgive those around us. We imitate him because, through Jesus, we already are his children. That is who God made us to be in our baptism. His forgiveness changes us; it leads us to be like him. Dearly loved children show love. Forgiven children become forgivers. So, follow your Father. Imitate him and let your family resemblance show. When people see kindness, compassion, and forgiveness in you, they are catching a glimpse of your heavenly Father. May they look at you and say, “I can certainly tell whose child you are!” Prayer: Dear Father in heaven, thank you for washing, forgiving, and adopting me in my baptism. Help me to resemble you in everything I say and do. Amen. The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire. Questions for Younger Children In what ways do you look or act like your mom or dad? In what ways can you look or act like God? Questions for Elementary Age Children What blessings did God give you in Baptism? How can your kindness or forgiveness help someone see your heavenly Father in you? Questions for Middle School and Above What does this statement mean: “My baptism is not just something that happened to me; it tells me who I am”? Sometimes young people feel unfair pressure to grow up and be just like their parents. Is it unfair for God to expect his children to act like him? Explain. Download Family Devotions Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

In this message from John 15, Pastor Bill gently dismantles that pressure and hands us back the simplicity that's in Christ: God never asked you to carry tomorrow's grace today. Walking through the vineyard of Isaiah 27, the manna of Exodus 16, and the mercies that are new every morning in Lamentations 3, this teaching uncovers a liberating truth — you are not your own keeper. God begins the work, God sustains it, and God completes it. We look at what abiding actually is, why hoarding manna is a symptom of orphan thinking rather than sonship, why the morning matters more than you realize, and how to stop letting yesterday's failure keep you from today's invitation. If you're weary from self-reliance, anxious about a tomorrow that isn't yours, or carrying shame from a yesterday Christ has already forgiven — this one is for you. Receive today's portion. Abide today.     Listen in now to hear Life Center Church's latest Sunday message from Pastor Bill.   ⛪️ Connect with us ⛪️  https://www.lifecenternyc.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lifecenternyc/

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/ece-devotions/20260914ECME.mp3 Listen to Devotion Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 4:29-5:2 Forgiveness is for Me One of the most remarkable things I have come to appreciate about four-year-olds is their ability to remember details. Not a day goes by that one of my little ones doesn't amaze me with a sentence beginning with, “Remember when…?” Memory is not my superpower. I share that fact openly and often. But little children have amazing memories. Many times, that is incredibly helpful to a forgetful teacher like me! I know that if I say I'm going to do something, at least a handful of my preschool kiddos will hold me to it, and without fail! Unfortunately, this also holds true when another child has done them wrong. Their memories are long when someone has sinned against them, even if we have worked through the situation and come to an agreeable solution. Apologies have been made, and forgiveness has been given. Still, they remember that thing that was done and they bring it back up, even if it is without malice. Our little ones can be quick to forgive, but forgetting is a different story. In Ephesians 4:32, God commands us, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” This is one of the most beautiful reminders of the work of salvation done for us by our Savior. We cannot help but continue to sin against one another this side of heaven. No matter how hard we try, we will continue to do wrong. That is a hard truth to swallow. Like little children, we remember those ugly things done to us by our fellow sinners and we bring them back up. Forgiveness can be hard to give, yet our God tells us we must. In God's ever-loving way, he reminds us that he has forgiven us through Christ Jesus. He is perfect and expects perfection from each of us, but instead of condemning us, he freely provides undeserved forgiveness for each and every one of our sins. He did this when he condemned his own Son to suffer and die in our place. Jesus took the punishment of death and hell that was meant for us. This forgiveness has been given freely and undeservedly—two words which make no sense in our sinful world but mean everything to Christians. Because we have been forgiven in Christ, we, too, can forgive with kindness, compassion and love. God doesn't promise that it will be easy. So, he gives us these beautiful words. They are not just an example for us. They build us up with his love and power so that we can forgive from our hearts out of love for God. Prayer: God, we know we are filled with sin and that it makes true forgiveness hard to give. Forgive us for our weakness. Fill our hearts with the knowledge of our Savior, Jesus. Help us to forgive freely and with compassion when wrong has been done to us. Help us to daily set the same example for our little ones through our words and actions. Amen. Early Childhood Ministry Educator’s (ECME) Devotions are brought to you by WELS Commission on Lutheran Schools. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

What Is Christian Warfare? Jonathan Parnell Download Psalm 109,Be not silent, O God of my praise!2 For wicked and deceitful mouths are opened against me, speaking against me with lying tongues.3 They encircle me with words of hate, and attack me without cause.4 In return for my love they accuse me, but I give myself to prayer.5 So they reward me evil for good, and hatred for my love.6 Appoint a wicked man againsthim; letan accuser stand at his right hand.7 When he is tried, let him come forth guilty; let his prayer be counted as sin!8 May his days be few; may another take his office!9 May his children be fatherless and his wife a widow!10 May his children wander about and beg, seeking food far from the ruins they inhabit!11 May the creditor seize all that he has; may strangers plunder the fruits of his toil!12 Let there be none to extend kindness to him, nor any to pity his fatherless children!13 May his posterity be cut off; may his name be blotted out in the second generation!14 May the iniquity of his fathers be remembered before the Lord, and let not the sin of his mother be blotted out!15 Let them be before the Lord continually, that he may cut off the memory of them from the earth!16 For he did not remember to show kindness, but pursued the poor and needy and the brokenhearted, to put them to death.17 He loved to curse; let curses come upon him! He did not delight in blessing; may it be far from him!18 He clothed himself with cursing as his coat; may it soak into his body like water, like oil into his bones!19 May it be like a garment that he wraps around him, like a belt that he puts on every day!20 May this be the reward of my accusers from the Lord, of those who speak evil against my life!21 But you, O God myLord,deal on my behalf for your name's sake; because your steadfast love is good, deliver me!22 For I am poor and needy, and my heart is stricken within me.23 I am gone like a shadow at evening; I am shaken off like a locust.24 My knees are weak through fasting; my body has become gaunt, with no fat.25 I am an object of scorn to my accusers; when they see me, they wag their heads.26 Help me, O Lord my God!Save me according to your steadfast love!27 Let them know that this is your hand; you, O Lord, have done it!28 Let them curse, but you will bless! They arise and are put to shame, but your servant will be glad!29 May my accusers be clothed with dishonor; may they be wrapped in their own shame as in a cloak!30 With my mouth I will give great thanks to the Lord; I will praise him in the midst of the throng.31 For he stands at the right hand of the needy one, to save him from those who condemn his soul to death.In 1657, an English Puritan named John Arrowsmith wrote a book describing the Christian life as warfare. He says this warfare is not something that happens every now and then, but it's constant: To be a Christian is to be at war, period. Sometimes we can have moments of respite — which are gifts — but the baseline reality of the Christian life is that we actually live behind enemy lines.Arrowsmith writes: [quote] “Christians dwell in enemy territory so long as they [are in this] world.” Everyday we fight against the world, the flesh, and the devil, but he explains the real enemy is Satan himself. The Book of Revelation calls Satan “that ancient serpent” (going back to Genesis Chapter 3)…This means we're in an ancient war, against an ancient enemy, and therefore Christians should understand themselves as spiritual warriors.That's Arrowsmith's main point, and it's a good one. And what I find fascinating about it is that in 17th century Europe nobody heard him explain this and thought he was being too intense. Nobody thought he was forcing the framework. And so if we hear it and we think he's being too extreme, it's probably because we're the ones living in the bubble … Understand most of human history has been marked by suffering and violence …And it's not just that life itself is hard, but it's that for most humans throughout history, they've understood what it means to have enemies— I don't mean metaphorical enemies; not merely ideological enemies. But I'm talking about real, physical enemies who are active threats.That category has been normal for most people historically, and so the concept of the Christian life as warfare makes sense to them. … And I believe it'll make more sense to us the more we are shaped by the Bible. That's what we're gonna see this morning. Looking at Psalm 109, I want to show you four facts about Christian warfare. These facts were true when David wrote this psalm; they were true in the 17th century when Arrowsmith wrote his book; and they're true right now — so we can't afford not to know these things. The first fact is this:1. There are enemies of Christ. Right away we see that Psalm 109 is about enemies. Verse 1 opens: “Be not silent, O God of my praise! For wicked and deceitful mouths are opened against me, speaking against me with lying tongues …”This is obvious opposition. Then in verse 6, there's still plural enemies, but a singular enemy comes into view and verse 8 says:“May his days be few; may another take his office!”“May his days be few; may another take his office!”Now if you've recently read the Book of Acts in the New Testament, that might sound familiar to you. That's because in Acts Chapter 1, one of the first things Peter does after Jesus's resurrection, is he tells the other disciples that they need to replace Judas (remember Jesus had twelve disciples, but Judas betrayed Jesus and hung himself, so they were down to eleven disciples). And the reason Peter gives for replacing Judas is Psalm 109, verse 8. This is Acts 1:15 — there were 120 brand-new Christians altogether, and Peter says:Hey, everyone, we need to replace Judas because the Holy Spirit spoke by the mouth of David concerning Judas that another should take his office.Peter quotes Psalm 109:8, which means that Peter (and the other early Christians), who had been trained by Jesus how to read the Old Testament, they interpreted the enemy in Psalm 109 to be Judas. This is amazing! Now I wanna show you how they get there …Psalm 109 is a Psalm of David, and as we've seen many times before, David writes the psalms as a type of Christ. He writes from own situations, but he also looks forward in time, and the Holy Spirit, through David's original voice, speaks as the voice of the Messiah.That's what's happening in Psalm 109. So we should read this psalm as prayed ultimately by Jesus himself.The enemies described here are not just enemies of David, the Anointed One, but they're enemies of David's Son, the ultimate Anointed One. Psalm 109 is about the enemies of the true Messiah. It's about the enemies of Christ. Archetypal Enemy And focus is on Judas as the singular enemy because Judas became the ringleader of those who crucified Jesus. Peter says in Acts 1:16 that Judas was their guide. Judas became the lead human instrument of Satan's schemes — we know from the Gospel accounts! They tell us that Satan entered Judas (Luke 22:3; John 13:2, 27). And so to this day, Judas is an archetype of an enemy of Christ. He's the head representative. Every enemy of Christ ever since has been cut from that same cloth. So, like Judas, enemies of Christ become people in whom Satan has his way. They oppose the message of Christ and the people of Christ, and they distort the truth of Christ. And we see this already throughout the New Testament. The apostle John calls this the “spirit of antichrist” (1 John 4:3) — it's the ongoing satanic pattern of hatred for Jesus. There are people in this world who hate Jesus and hate his people. And of course we know this because Jesus has told us this in the Gospel of John.So it's first fact we gotta nail down: there are enemies of Christ.Second fact about our warfare is …2. The enemies of Christ speak evil. Now when you think of the enemies of Christ, you might imagine all kinds of terrible things these enemies do, but it's important to see in Psalm 109 that the main evil of these enemies has to do with what they say. Ten different times we read that the enemies of Christ have: Deceitful mouths, lying tongues, they speak words of hate, they accuse, they curse, they speak evil.We see this actively in the Gospels, in the trial of Jesus; we see this in those who reviled Jesus when he was on the cross; we see this in Judas when he conspired against Jesus — he used words. We also see this today in how the enemies of Christ oppose his people.Now none of this should surprise us because Jesus called Satan “a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). That was Satan's way from the start in the Garden of Eden, and it's happening now. The enemies of Christ — those in whom Satan has his way — they most resemble Satan with their words. Their messaging. They are liars.Falsehood. Deception. Half-truths. Spinning truths. Full-out distortions. Blatant contradictions. Or as they say in Australia, bull-DUST — all of that is speaking evil. And there is something especially Satanic about it … And in this country, you're technically free to do it. Just understand that freedom of speech doesn't mean that the words you speak are harmless to your soul. Words have consequences. And every word ever spoken against Jesus Christ will be punished.I remember as a kid something Jesus said really got my attention. It's Matthew 12:36. Jesus says, “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak…”Jesus said that. And if people will be held accountable for their careless words, how much more the enemies of Christ for their words against Christ?That's the third fact.3. God will curse the enemies of Christ.The bulk of Psalm 109 is an imprecatory prayer. An imprecatory prayer is when you ask God to curse someone. I counted 23 curses (or imprecations) in this psalm — that's 23 petitions where David, in the voice of Messiah, is asking God to curse his enemies. Now we'd be sidetracked if all of a sudden we make the topic here about whether or not we can pray imprecatory prayers. (Of course we can. They're in the Bible! And if you want to read more about it, I encourage you to go check out a sermon I preached a few years ago on Psalm 58 titled, “How to Pray Imprecations.”)But for this morning, there's something more important for us to see. Most of the curses are in verses 6–20, but the direct center of the psalm is verse 17. Here's verse 17: He [the enemy of Christ] … He loved to curse; let curses come upon him! He did not delight in blessing; may it be far from him!So the Messiah is asking God the Father to curse his enemies who tried to curse him. And if you're a reader of Scripture, this makes total sense — Jesus is just asking God to do what God already promised. Because way back in the Book of Genesis, God promised Abraham, Genesis 12:3, I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you [or curses you] I will curse …God said that! And this promise becomes a covenantal thread that runs all the way through the Old Testament and finally reaches its fulfillment in Jesus. Jesus becomes the ultimate dividing line between blessing and curse — are you with him or against him? That's the question. And if you're against him, God will curse you.And then the apostle Paul applies this same logic to the church.Applied to the ChurchPaul tells the church in Thessalonica that “God considers it just to repay with affliction those who afflict you” (2 Thessalonians 1:6). God the Father says it is right to curse those who curse the church. This is a big deal.And I can't help but imagine that when Paul wrote those words, he remembered the very first thing Jesus ever said to him. This in Acts Chapter 9, on the road to Damascus, when the old Paul was on his way to persecute Christians. Remember Jesus appeared to him and said:“Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?”Paul said, “Who are you?”Jesus said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting?”You get that? Jesus identifies himself so completely with his church that the persecution of them is persecution of him.So for the enemies of Christ who afflict his church, God the Father will afflict them. And Jesus prays for that. Look, the main thing we need to know about these curses in Psalm 109 is that they will happen whether we pray for them or not. Psalm 109 is about what will be.The Father has promised it. The Son has requested it. God will curse the enemies of Christ. That is a fact about Christian warfare. Here's the last one. In this warfare …4. God will magnify his glory by saving his people. In the midst of this opposition, as these enemies are set against him, the Messiah prays for God to deliver him. We read this in verse 21, and this a verse that you gotta see. So y'all help me out. Find Psalm 109, verse 21:But you, O God my Lord, deal on my behalf for your name's sake; because your steadfast love is good, deliver me!Now skip down to verse 26: Help me, O Lord my God! Save me according to your steadfast love! Let them know that this is your hand; you, O Lord, have done it!I want you to see here that the Messiah's not just asking for God to save him, he's asking for God to be glorified. He's saying: Save me because of who you are! Save me for your name's sake!Save me because of your steadfast love!And save me in such a way that my enemies know it's you!Make it clear that my salvation is from your hand!Now, how might God do that?What kind of salvation would require God to do what nobody else can do?What kind of enemy could God defeat that makes people say … “wow!”?If there's one place where we know for sure “vain is the salvation of man” it's the grave. Death is the enemy that no man can outrun, no army can defeat, no power on earth can reverse. Nobody raises themselves from the dead.But do you know what God can do?On the third day, God the Father raised Jesus from the dead. It was only by his hand. God did that! We see this confidence all throughout the Psalms in the voice of the Messiah:O Yahweh, you have brought up my soul from Sheol; you restored me to life from among those who go down to the pit. (30:3)You will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption! (16:10) You, God, will ransom my soul from the power of the grave! (49:15)God is the one who resurrects. God alone! It's true of physical resurrection, and it's true of spiritual resurrection … I hope you know that if you're a Christian it's because God did that. The Bible tells us that spiritually speaking, left to ourselves, we're all in graves. Ephesians 2:1, “And you were dead in your trespasses and sins…” Dead! — Therefore, God has to be the one to spiritually resurrect us, and he did! That's why God gets the glory! “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (Ephesians 2:8–9)Christian, don't pat yourself on the back for being a Christian, but thank God he made you alive! Thank God that he has worked a miracle in you! God did that!Be humbled and happy! That's how we live as Christians for the glory of God.God magnifies his glory by saving his people … he raised Jesus from the dead, he raises his church from spiritual death, and one day he will raise our bodies from the grave and make us like Jesus, with him, forever.But until then, church, it's warfare. We are, for now, the church militant.In this life we cling to Jesus by faith behind enemy lines, and we fight everyday against the world, the flesh, and the devil. Why did God do it this way? You ever think about this?What if God had made it so that at our conversion, we get instant, complete triumph? No more struggle. No more enemies. Just instant heaven. Wouldn't that be nice! Why does God leave us here to fight?John Arrowsmith asked that question. This is what he said: [In our fight,] God directs and ordains the wickedness of Satan and the unrighteous such that they result in His glory, [and his glory is manifest in] the advantage of His church, and the destruction of the wicked at the day of the Lord. (120)That's not an easy answer, but it's true. That's how we should think about the enemies of Christ: God has ordained it all for the maximum display of his glory, which is the maximum joy of his people. Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?” “Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?” For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen. This is what brings us to the TableThe TableWe come here each week to remember the death of Jesus. By the death of Jesus, God's love was poured out for us. By his resurrection, although we're at war, our victory is secured. And we come here to thank him. We thank Jesus for his death; we thank him that he's alive; and we thank him for making us alive. And hey, if you're here this morning and you're not a Christian … if you've not put your faith in Jesus, God can make you alive right now. Turn to Jesus and be spiritually resurrected.If that is your story, if you are a Christian, we invite you to eat and drink with us…

Jude 4, Theological Triage: Essential Truth of the Christian Faith Adam Godshall Speaker: Adam GodshallSeries: Jude: Fighting for the TruthText: Jude 4Theme: Theological Triage: Essential Truth of the Christian Faith Theological Triage: Ranking theological issues based on how central thay are to the Christian faith. Outside of "the faith"*They distort saving grace*They deny sovereign authority Galatians: "a different gospel"*They reject transforming grace*They reject the transcendent God Essential Truth*The revelation of of God *Inspiration & authority of the Bible *The trinity and the Deity of Christ*God's plan to save sinners through Jesus *Justification by faith, atonement, resurrection *Christ's return as King and Judge Conclusion: I must confess these essential truths as a Christian. ...contend for the faith... ~ Jude 3

Of all United States presidents, Jimmy Carter had the longest marriage. He and his wife Rosalyn were married for seventy-seven years. When Carter was asked the secret to his long, successful marriage, he replied, “Choose the right person to marry.” Beyond that, he named three other concepts for marital success: reconciliation, communication, and devotion to faith. We see the idea of reconciliation in Ephesians 4:26: “Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” The Carters took this seriously. “Every night, we try to make sure we’re completely reconciled from all the arguments during the day,” Jimmy once said. We can see the secret to Christlike communication in Ephesians 4. Paul wrote, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (v. 32). God ordained marriage as something good—something established by Him (Genesis 2:24; Hebrews 13:4). Proverbs 18:22 says that marriage is a divine blessing: “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” And the way we treat one another, in marriage and in the entire body of Christ, can encourage and positively affect others. Whether we’re single or married, our words and actions can truly reflect the loving, forgiving heart of Christ.

What you love in life: misery. Whites kneel, kiss boots. Anger, God's attribute? Ladies argue: Pick up that trash! $1M or a father? Harmonica Nat'l Anthem. Dating a Christian.

The Holy Spirit and The Bride of Christ - God consumes what we consecrate. Message from August 2nd.

We conclude our Youth for God Weekend with this powerful message from Caleb Speer as he walks through Ephesians 3. Wrapping up the weekend's "Made for More" theme, Caleb reminds us that our greatest purpose is not found in our plans, careers, or accomplishments—but in bringing glory to God through Christ and His church. In this lesson, we discover that God has called us into something far bigger than ourselves. Our identity is found in Christ, our purpose is found in His mission, and our lives are meant to display God's wisdom and glory to the world. Caleb encourages both young people and adults to know Christ deeply, serve faithfully, and trust that God can accomplish far more than we could ever imagine. Key Scripture

In this week's message, Dr. Stan reminded us of a powerful truth that should shape every part of our walk with Christ: God is for you.Using the life of King Asa in 2 Chronicles 16, we were challenged to examine where our trust truly lies. God promises to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him. For those who walk in faith and obedience, He gives victory—not because of who we are, but because He sought us, saved us, and is for us.If God is for us, we have nothing to fear. Instead of relying on the world's solutions, we are called to depend fully on Him. As we fill our hearts and minds with God's truth rather than the "garbage" of the world, His wisdom begins to shape our thoughts, decisions, and actions.Dr. Stan also challenged us to consider what spiritual maturity really looks like. A disciple isn't someone who remains dependent on "spiritual baby food," but someone who has grown enough to help others learn to "cut their own steak." True disciples make disciples.The message closed with several questions for personal reflection:Are we relying fully on God or looking to the world to solve our problems?Are we using our God-given talents for His glory or for worldly pursuits?Are our relationships drawing us closer to Christ and honoring Him?The Christian life is not about reaching a destination of perfection—it is about continually growing to become more like Jesus. Growing in Christlikeness is a lifelong journey, and we can walk that journey with confidence because God is for us.

God Sees a Jesus Follower as Being “In Christ”; Therefore, God Sees a Jesus Follower as His Son or Daughter MESSAGE SUMMARY: As Followers of Jesus, you are "In Christ" -- God looks at you, as a Jesus Follower, and He sees Jesus in you. Throughout the Epistles we find: "In Christ" or "In Him". In Galatians 3:14, Paul tells you that your faith in Jesus makes you “In Christ” and a recipient of God's Covenant with Abraham: “so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.". Also, Paul goes even further, in Galatians 3:25-28, to tell you that, through your faith in Jesus, you no longer need any kind of intermediary because you are “In Christ” and you have a personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe: “But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian.”. When God sees you, “In Christ" as a Jesus Follower, He sees Jesus, the Son. Therefore, God sees you as His son or daughter.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus' name, amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Compulsions. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Patience. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Romans 3:21-26; Romans 6:5-11; Romans 6:22-23; Psalms 63:1-11.   A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Following Jesus – Jesus Calls Us to Follow Him Without Reservations”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

THE KEYS TO STAYING FULL OF THE HOLY SPIRIT Jeremiah 29:13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with ALL your heart. (NIV) Ephesians 5:18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be FILLED with the Spirit, (NIV) SALVATION IS YOUR STARTING POINT Acts 1:15 In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty) (NIV) Ephesians 1:13 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit (NIV) John 20:22 And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. (NIV) Ephesians 5:18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit (NIV) 2. YOU NEED TO OBEY JESUS AND HIS WORD Acts 1:4-5 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” (NIV) 3. YOU NEED TO ASK GOD TO FILL YOU Acts 1:14 They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. (NIV) Luke 11:13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (NIV) 4. YOU NEED TO FIGHT FOR UNITY WITH OTHER BELIEVERS  Acts 1:14 They all joined TOGETHER constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. (NIV)   Acts 2:1 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all TOGETHER in one place. (NIV) Ephesians 4:3 - Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (NIV) Ephesians 4:29-32 - Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (NIV)  Psalm 133:1–2 How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! 2 It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. (NIV) 5. YOU NEED TO WAIT ON GOD Psalm 27:14 WAIT for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; WAIT for the Lord! (ESV) Lamentations 3:25–26 The Lord is good to those who WAIT for him, to the soul who seeks him. 26 It is good that one should WAIT quietly for the salvation of the Lord. (ESV) Micah 7:7 But as for me, I will look to the Lord; I will WAIT for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me. (ESV) Acts 1:4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but WAIT for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. (NIV) 6. YOU NEED TO RECEIVE THE FILLING OF THE SPIRIT BY FAITH Acts 2:4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. (NIV) Acts 8:14-17 When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to Samaria. 15 When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 because the Holy Spirit had not yet come on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. (NIV)

The Christ | God With Us | Justin Cheely | 7-12-26 by Pastor Ernie Jaurique

What if the person you're holding captive through unforgiveness is actually you?This week we explored a powerful truth: "To forgive is to set a prisoner free and to realize that the prisoner was you." Like Leonardo DiCaprio's character in Inception, we often trap ourselves in the prison of unforgiveness, thinking we're holding others accountable when we're really holding ourselves hostage.The early church in Ephesus struggled with this too. Paul reminded them: "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you" (Ephesians 4:32). Here's the key—we can't offer forgiveness until we truly receive God's forgiveness. At your worst moment, Christ died for you. That's where freedom begins.Forgiveness isn't about feelings—it's about truth. Step into the truth first, and trust the feelings will follow. Otherwise, you'll stay trapped in an anger prison forever. So which do you choose: freedom or vindication? Freedom or being right?

The post The Mystery of Christ: God's Wisdom Made Known Through the Church appeared first on Waukesha City Church.

Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla — July 2, 2026. "O God from My Youth You Have Taught Me" reflects on Psalm 71:17-19 (ESV), a settled, weathered confession of faith from a lifetime spent walking with God. In this Lutheran daily devotional, Pastor Balla explores how every wondrous deed God taught the psalmist points forward to Christ — God becoming flesh, dying for sinners, and rising from the dead — and how Christ's righteousness, not our own, reaches the high heavens. This Bible devotion calls believers of every age to pass the faith on to the next generation, sharing the testimony of what Jesus has done. Perfect for morning devotion, personal prayer, or daily Bible study. Subscribe for daily devotionals, confessional Lutheran teaching, and Scripture reflections grounded in God's Word.Support this ministry: https://buymeacoffee.com/whitegandalphWebsite: buymeacoffee.com/whitegandalphGod's Peace and many Blessings be with you. Thank you for listening — please share this message with others.Hashtags:#DailyDevotion #PastorBalla #Psalm71 #PassingOnFaith #ChristianTestimony

Summer has a way of bringing the soul to life — warm weather, longer days, beautiful flowers, and a slower pace that invites connection. But it can also be a season when unkindness quietly takes root, especially among children and young people who are simply following the crowd. One summer, a friendship with a girl across the street gradually pulled toward making fun of other kids on the block, and though it felt terrible, fear kept anyone from speaking up. Looking back as an adult, the understanding is clearer: the girl was hurting, but that didn't make the silence right. Ephesians 4:32 gives us a command that is easy to read past: be kind and compassionate to one another. Most attention falls on the second half of the verse, the call to forgive as God has forgiven us, but the instruction to extend kindness and compassion is equally important and equally non-negotiable. Kindness costs nothing and can be given freely to anyone — an elderly neighbor, a struggling coworker, a single mom in the next apartment. This summer, whether you find yourself at the beach or close to home, the invitation is the same: stand up for what is right, extend love to the people around you, and let the Holy Spirit make you a beacon of Christ's kindness wherever you go. Today's Bible Verse "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."— Ephesians 4:32, NIV Ponder Today Kindness is a command, not a suggestion. Paul's words in Ephesians 4:32 leave no wiggle room. Regardless of the season of the year or the crowd around us, we are called to extend kindness and compassion to one another. Silence in the face of unkindness is its own kind of failure. Not participating in cruelty is a start, but standing up for those being hurt is what truly reflects the heart of Christ. This summer, choose to speak up. Kindness costs nothing and can be given to everyone. There is no shortage of people who need a kind word, a moment of genuine attention, or someone to simply notice them. Look around — the opportunity is closer than you think. You are a new creation in Christ — live like it. When old habits or old crowds try to pull you back into who you used to be, remember that your identity has been redeemed and renewed (2 Corinthians 5:17). Stand your ground in the name of the Lord. A Prayer for You Today Dear God, summertime reminds me of summers from long ago, and I do not want to repeat the mistakes of failing to extend kindness or speak up for others. Please help me to always choose kindness, compassion, and courage. I am not afraid anymore — I will do the right thing. By forgiving others and extending love, I can shine brightly for You. Please help me to be a beacon of Your love to everyone I encounter this summer. Thank You for giving me Your strength, support, and guidance. In Jesus' name, Amen. Don't Miss an Episode If today's prayer inspired you to make this a summer of intentional kindness, we'd love to stay connected. Subscribe to the LifeAudio newsletter at LifeAudio.com for daily prayers, devotionals, and more content to help you live and love like Jesus every day. If you like this podcast, be sure to check out our sister podcast, Your Nightly Prayer - an evening Christian prayer podcast to help you end your day in conversation with God. https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In Eternity — Review of Lesson #13 of the 2nd Quarter of 2026 -The Sabbath School Lesson study guide can be found here:— https://ssnet.org/lessons/26b/less13.html— https://www.adultbiblestudyguide.org/archives— https://sabbath-school.adventech.io/enThe title of this quarter's theme is: Growing in a Relationship With GodFor the next 13 weeks (April to June 2026), we will look at God's desire to be in a relationship with humankind, and what that means for each of us personally.Related Documents:— William Miller's Rules Bible StudyRelated Podcasts:— All About Types and Symbols— The Future Is Manifest in the Past— What is the purpose of Prophecy, anyway?— End-Time Prophecy Primer— Slumbering and SleepingRelated Podcasts at TrueWisdom:— The Bride of Christ— God's Regret - Part 1— God's Regret - Part 2— It Repented the LORD— What's the Point of Prophecy, anywayText UsSupport the showSend questions or comments to: BibleQuestions@ASBzone.comThe Key Principles of Effective Bible Study is a resource which outlines core concepts shown in the Scriptures that will help you to better understand many Biblical themes and doctrines.  We have an extended, 24-part podcast series on these principles, and a condensed, 9-part series called God's Precious Word, that is based on the same resource.We also recommend that you check out the True Wisdom podcast which I co-host with Robert Baker -- a different format for Bible Study.Finally, check out these awesome Bible Maps!We pray that all of these resources will be very helpful to you in your Bible Studies.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our identity is not determined by who chooses us in this world—the team that accepts us, the relationship that works out, the opportunity we receive, or the recognition we gain. As children of God, we belong to Him. We are His treasured possession, called out of darkness and into His light. Remembering that we are chosen changes the way we see ourselves and our circumstances. Earthly disappointments may still hurt, but they no longer define our worth. God’s choice of us is rooted in His love, His purpose, and His eternal plan. Highlights: Our deepest sense of belonging comes from being chosen by God Earthly rejection does not change our identity as God’s beloved children God calls us His special possession and invites us into His family Staying grounded in Scripture helps us remember who we are in Christ God’s plans and blessings are greater than the opportunities we may miss Join the Conversation Have you experienced a time when God reminded you that He saw your pain, needs, or circumstances? How does knowing that God is El Roi—the God who sees you—change the way you approach difficult seasons? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Chosen by God By Alexis A. Goring Bible Reading:“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”—1 Peter 2:9 NIV Have you ever struggled with a sense of belonging because you did not feel chosen? Most people want to be chosen. Whether chosen to play with others when we were children, chosen to be asked to the prom by our high school crush, chosen to attend the college of our choice, chosen to marry the person of our dreams, chosen for a job we worked hard for or chosen for other things we want out of life, the desire to be chosen is a universal feeling and part of life on earth. But do we know that the Creator of the Universe chose us before we chose Him (Ephesians 1:4-5)? God chose us to be part of His Family. Since He is King of the Universe, that means we as His children are a special kind of royalty. We are daughters and sons of the Eternal King. But how often do we forget this Biblical truth and act like we don’t know our true identity in Jesus Christ? I know I tend to be forgetful of this, and I struggle to maintain a heavenly perspective because it is easy to be consumed by how our world programs us to think. This is why it is so important to stay grounded in God’s Word. The Bible says in 1 Peter 2:9 that we are a people chosen by God. We are special to Him. God doesn’t just choose you; He transforms you as He calls you out of darkness into His wonderful light. When you choose to give your life to Jesus Christ, then you have passed from death to life (John 5:24). You now have the hope of eternal life after Jesus returns to Earth to take His children home to Heaven. But while we are still living on Earth, it is important to have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16) and not be bogged down by what we go through in this world. Our experiences on Earth shape us. I know what it is like to not be chosen for the team, not chosen by the man whom I thought I wanted to marry, not chosen by the dream employer whom I would love to work for, or not chosen for so many other of my heart’s desires. But instead of worrying about these missed opportunities to be chosen, it helps me to remember that the King of the Universe chose me and you first. And He offers us a life better than our wildest dreams when we enter Heaven. The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 2:9 (GW), “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined the things that God has prepared for those who love him.” God has amazing things in store for His chosen people when we step into eternity with Him. But that doesn’t mean He doesn’t also have good plans for us while we are living on Earth. God can still answer our prayers and bless us beyond our wildest dreams, and help the right people to choose us. We just need to pray for His will to be done in our lives. He wants to bless you on earth, too, though those blessings pale in comparison to what He has in store for us when we start eternity in His Kingdom. Next time you feel disappointed or sad about not being chosen by a person or company, or an opportunity here on Earth, look up to the sky and imagine God smiling down at you, saying, “I still choose you, my child.” Let that Biblical truth marinate in your mind. Write it down in your prayer journal. Post it on your mirror so you can remind yourself every day that God chose you. Soak in His pure, unconditional love for you and remember who you are in Jesus Christ. In closing, I would like you to listen to these two songs: “Remember Who You Are” sung by Crystal Lewis. And “I Still Want You” sung by Tramaine Hawkins. Song of Reflection #1: “Remember Who You Are” by Crystal Lewis. Listen to it HERE. Song of Reflection #2: “I Still Want You” by Tramaine Hawkins. Listen to it HERE. Intersecting Faith & Life: How does it feel to know you are chosen by God? Further Reading:John 15:16Isaiah 41:9Colossians 3:12Philippians 2:5-81 Thessalonians 1:4-5 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colossians 1:15-23 ESV 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. 21 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, 22 he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, 23 if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.   • • • 1. Jesus: Supreme in Creation Colossians 1:15-17 John 1:1-3 Colossians 2:9   • • • Colossians 1:15-17 ESV 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.   • • • John 1:1-3 NIV 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.   • • • Colossians 2:9 ESV 9 For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily,   • • • 2. Jesus: Supreme in the Church Colossians 1:18 Ephesians 122-23 1 Corinthians 15:20-22   • • • Colossians 1:18 ESV 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.   • • • Ephesians 1:22-23 ESV 22 And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.   • • • 1 Corinthians 15:20-22 ESV 20 But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.   • • • 3. Jesus: Supreme in Reconciliation Colossians 1:19-22 Ephesians 2:1-5 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 Romans 1:16   • • • Colossians 1:19-22 ESV 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. 21 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, 22 he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him,   • • • Ephesians 2:1-5 ESV 1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the flesh and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—   • • • 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 ESV 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.   • • • Romans 1:16 ESV 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.   • • • Romans 1:16 ESV 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.   • • • Ephesians 2:1-5 ESV 1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the flesh and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—   • • • Application: Make Jesus first place in everything in your life!

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“Speech has power. Words do not fade.”~Abraham Joshua Heschel (1907-1972), Polish-born American rabbi and theologian “Words and ideas can change the world.”~John Keating, fictional teacher in Dead Poets Society “Words are loaded pistols.”~Jean-Paul Sartre (1905-1980), French philosopher, novelist and activist “Words are like eggs dropped from great heights; you can no more call them back than ignore the mess they leave when they fall.”~Jodi Picoult, best-selling author “There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” ~Proverbs 12:18 “Anxiety in the heart of a man weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad.”~Proverbs 12:25 “Out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks…. But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”~Jesus in Matthew 12:34, 36-37 “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.”~James 3:9-10 SERMON PASSAGEEphesians 4:15-16, 25-32 (NIV)Ephesians 4 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…. 25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26  “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.  29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.1 Corinthians 13 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. Romans 310 As it is written:   “There is no one righteous, not even one….13 “Their throats are open graves;   their tongues practice deceit.”   “The poison of vipers is on their lips.”14 “Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness.”  

TODAY'S TREASUREBe kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.Ephesians 4:32Send us a comment!Support the show

The King Has Come "Thy Compassions, They Fail Not" (Matthew 15:29-39) In Matthew 15, Jesus moves through Gentile territory with the same compassion He showed Israel. He heals the lame, the blind, the crippled, and the mute, then feeds a crowd of 4,000 with seven loaves and a few small fish. Elder Peter Finch walks through both of these moments to show what compassion actually means. Not a polite feeling, but a God who sees pain, suffers alongside it, and acts to relieve it. He also addresses the disciples' tendency to forget what God has already done, a tendency that is easy to recognize because it is our own. The sermon closes with a direct call to anyone who has not yet come to Christ: God's patience toward you is itself an act of compassion, meant to draw you to repentance. Sermon Notes June 14, 2025 Elder Peter Finch Presented by McGregor Podcast 2026 Visit Our Website at McGregorPodcast.com New to McGregor? Plan a visit at mcgregor.net/plan-a-visit

God Sees Jesus Followers as “In Christ”: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” MESSAGE SUMMARY: As Followers of Jesus, we are "In Christ" -- God looks at us and sees Jesus in us. Throughout the Epistles we find: "In Christ" or "In Him". In Galatians 3:14, Paul tells us that our faith in Jesus makes us “In Christ” and recipients of God's Covenant with Abraham: “so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.". Also, Paul goes even further, in Galatians 3:25-28, to tell us that, through our faith in Jesus, we no longer need any kind of intermediary because we are “In Christ” and we have a personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe: “But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian.”. The benefit our position "In Christ", as Christians, is that when God looks at us, He sees Jesus, the Son; therefore, He then sees us as His sons and daughters.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Romans 3:21-26; Romans 6:5-11; Romans 6:22-23; Psalms 77a:1-10. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Are You Willing to Speak Up and Share, Publicly, Your Relationship with Jesus?” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/    DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB  

Our Awesome God -- Part 3: Trinity; Jesus, the Christ MESSAGE SUMMARY: We pray and sing to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit – the Trinity: one God and yet three persons in the one God. All analogies fall shot in explaining an incomprehensible God and the Trinity. The Trinity is a mystery, and the word Trinity is not found in the Bible – the Bible has inferences to the Word Trinity and each of its component persons without naming the overarching word “Trinity”. However, the authority of speaking about the Trinity comes from the Bible. During the first few centuries of the Church, Christians wrestled with how to describe and communicate God in writings and teachings. These early Christians, in their study of the Scriptures, saw that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were all Devine; however, they knew that God was one. Therefore, these early Christians concluded that the Scriptures taught that there was only one God; but that the Father is God, the Son is God, and that the Holy Spirit is God – what we now call the Trinity. Today, we will look at the second person of the Trinity – Jesus. Jesus is the rock upon which Christianity is built. Typically, we refer to “Jesus Christ”; however, “Christ “is not Jesus last name. “Christ” is a title that means Messiah. Jesus, the second person of the Trinity, is viewed from three perspectives: 1) the pre-incarnate Christ; the incarnate Christ (God man); and the post-incarnate Christ. In John 1:1-5, the Apostle John tells us that the pre-incarnate Christ was the Word (Logos) and in the beginning. Also, the pre-incarnate Christ was a person, but He was: with God, a deity (God), and a participant in the Creation. Also, the pre-incarnate Christ, in the Old Testament, is referred to as “The Angel of the Lord” (Exodus 3:1-18). Whenever The Angel of the Lord appears in the Old Testament, God ends up being referenced as the person speaking. In John 8:58, Jesus removes all doubt that He was God, The Angel of the Lord, speaking to Abraham in Exodus 3: “Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.'". In John 1:14, the Apostle John identifies the God-man Jesus, the incarnate Christ, as God: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.". Jesus was the person of God's Son and He was Devine. In the year 325, leaders from all over the Church met in Nicaea to debate and understand who Jesus was. These Church leaders came out of this meeting saying that Jesus was co-equal and co-eternal with God the Father. In the Incarnation, Jesus remained God; but, also, Jesus became fully a sinless human – Son of Man and Son of God. The incarnate Christ was crucified, and He was resurrected; and He is living today as the post-incarnate Christ. As the post-incarnate Christ, Jesus is the reigning and redeeming Christ. Also, we are told that the post-incarnate Christ will return. Therefore, Jesus is the visible expression of the invisible God. It is because of Jesus, the second person of the Trinity, that we are able to have access to the first person of the Trinity – God the Father. God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit are inseparable because they are one God together in the Trinity. We are God's children; but God, our Father, has no grandchildren. Jesus tells us in John 14:6-7: “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.'". The understanding of the Godhead and the Trinity are a gift to us through our Salvation brought to us by Jesus.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. John 1:12f SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 1:1-5; Exodus 3:1-18; John 8:58; Exodus 17:1-6; 1 Corinthians 10:4; John 1:14; Luke 1:35; John 14:6-12; 1 Corinthians 15:3-11; Ephesians 1:7; Ephesians 1:19-24; Revelation 19:1-21; Hebrews 1:3; Colossians 1:15; Ephesians 2:18. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Our Relationship with God Is Based Solely on Our Relationship with God, and He Desires to Have a Relationship with Each of Us”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Leviticus 13-14 By grace God reveals sinful corruption, and in Christ God rejuvenates corrupt sinners. The post Clean Skin appeared first on Grace Presbyterian Church (PCA).

Does God have a plan? How can mankind be redeemed? How will the world be reconciled to God? Pastor Micah Hayes continues our new series, “Ephesians: One in Christ,” preaching from Ephesians 1:7-10. Notes in this sermon: God's plan is your redemption and the world's reconciliation. Visit www.bluevalleychurch.org for more information about Blue Valley Church in Overland Park and Olathe, Kansas.

Doctrines, Part 4: The Divine Being Description: In Part 4 of the Doctrines series, Pastor Eric takes a deep and necessary step into one of the most foundational—and often misunderstood—truths of Scripture: the nature of God Himself. Rooted in Romans 11:33–36, this message explores what makes God truly God. He is not like anything in creation. He is uncreated, eternal, and exists outside of time itself. As Pastor Eric explains, God is not simply greater than us—He is categorically different from us. This episode walks through the defining attributes of the divine being: God is Spirit—not limited by physical form or location God is One—yet revealed in three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit God is Eternal—the great “I AM,” without beginning or end God is Immutable—unchanging in His nature and character God is Omnipotent—all-powerful, with nothing beyond His ability God is Omniscient—all-knowing, fully aware of every thought and motive God is Omnipresent—present everywhere, at all times Special attention is given to understanding the Trinity—not as a contradiction, but as a revealed truth beyond human comparison. One being, three Persons, perfectly unified in will and purpose. The message then brings this doctrine into sharp focus through the person of Jesus Christ. The same God declared in Isaiah as “the First and the Last” is revealed in Revelation as Jesus Himself—fully God, fully man, and the Savior who entered creation to redeem it. This is not abstract theology. It leads to a very personal question: If this is who God is… what does that mean for you? Pastor Eric closes with a clear gospel call—reminding us that the all-powerful, all-knowing, ever-present God has made a way for sinners to be forgiven through Jesus Christ. Key Themes: The uniqueness and incomprehensibility of God The Trinity: One Being, Three Persons God's eternal and self-existent nature The attributes of God and why they matter Jesus Christ as the full revelation of the divine being Salvation through the finished work of Christ “God doesn't become—He is. And the great I AM stepped into our world so we could know Him.”

Does God have a plan? How can mankind be redeemed? How will the world be reconciled to God? Zach Wiggins, Minister to Students, continues our new series, “Ephesians: One in Christ,” preaching from Ephesians 1:7-10. Notes in this sermon: God's plan is your redemption and the world's reconciliation. Visit www.bluevalleychurch.org for more information about Blue Valley Church in Overland Park and Olathe, Kansas.

Does God's love really reach the worst of sinners? In this Words From The Word daily devotion, Pastor Roderick Webster opens Ephesians 2:1-4 (KJV) and unpacks one of the most powerful turning points in all of Scripture — the words "But God."You might be asking yourself: Am I too far gone for God to forgive me? What is the difference between mercy and grace? Why would God love someone who has nothing good to offer Him? How do I know this salvation is real and lasting?In this message, Pastor Roderick Webster helps you see:- We were all spiritually dead in trespasses and sins before Christ- God is not just merciful — He is rich in mercy, with no limit and no measure- His love for us had nothing to do with our goodness and everything to do with His nature- Mercy removes the penalty we deserve; grace gives us what we do not deserve- The moment you trust Christ, your account is settled — long ago and foreverNo matter where you are today, those two words — But God — change everything.If this devotion encouraged you, please like, leave a comment, share it with someone who needs it, and subscribe so you never miss a morning word.#WordsFromTheWord #KJV #BibleDevotion #ChristianLiving #GoodNewsBaptistChurchStay connected with GNBC:

These brief thoughts by John Owen on the glory of Christ are not just excellent, but they will also be a helpful supplement to what the Holy Spirit put into my heart to release on Friday. I’ll be addressing what I believe is most needful and wanting in Christian political engagement today.

So much of our Christian lives is spent trying to get rid of things, things we hold onto and struggle with, all while knowing we need to let them go. From attitudes to toxic behaviors to unhealthy relationships. Today, we read a crucial concept for this process. It's called the Principle of Replacement. Listen to Ephesians 4:31-32 … Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (NIV) If you decide to get rid of bitterness today, that's going to be tough, right? But what if instead, you placed your focus and energy on being kind? What if day by day, you started to make the intentional choice to replace bitterness with kindness? If something triggers bitterness to come up into your throat and the feelings are overwhelming, then you do something kind. Text a friend a thank you. Find a way to encourage the very next person you encounter.Paul's teaching was always practical. Bitterness can be replaced with kindness. Rage and anger can be replaced with choosing compassion. Slander and malice can be replaced with forgiveness. If we only focus on getting rid of things, we can easily set ourselves up for failure. But when we instead find a positive and healthy replacement for what we must get rid of, we have a far better shot at success, as well as just creating a better experience.What is one ‘replacement principle' I will commit to practicing this week? Kindness? Compassion? Forgiveness?We all have things we need to rid ourselves of… let's remember The Principle of Replacement … whatever you're trying to get rid of to be whole again, ask God to give you something good to replace it with.Let's pray together: “Heavenly Father, help me to take the toxic things I have held onto and replace them with the good gifts You offer me, gifts like kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. As above, so below.”

These brief thoughts by John Owen on the glory of Christ are not just excellent, but they will also be a helpful supplement to what the Holy Spirit put into my heart to release on Friday. I’ll be addressing what I believe is most needful and wanting in Christian political engagement today.

Galatians tells us exactly what the fruit of the Spirit is. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23). To answer the question of what it means to “be the fruit,” I want to look at each of them and offer some suggestions of how you implement this fruit in your life. It is the fruit of the Spirit, so obviously it must be a Spirit-empowered endeavor. But it won't just happen unless we as disciples of Jesus Christ determine to “be the fruit” each day. Let's start with that first one: Love. Here's what someone wrote, and I think it is a great way to be the fruit of love: True love needs a personal touch. Here’s a way to show people you love them in an unexpected way. Get a package of blank greeting cards and make a list of friends and family—especially the ones you don’t see often. Write them a short note that shares how much you appreciate them. Send your cards out at random far away from any holidays or birthday. Let the little love note surprise them! Now, that is a practical way to be the fruit of love. And cards have a greater impact than email, so spend a little money, buy a few stamps, and surprise some people with words of love. Next is joy. Joy should be the trademark of a Christian. When you are joyful, your strength increases, because the joy of the Lord is your strength. There is so much negativity and bad news in our world today that if you're not careful, you can let the enemy steal your joy. That's one of his favorite tactics. What's been stealing your joy? Or I might ask, who has been stealing your joy? Whatever or whoever it is, realize it is a satanic flaming arrow coming your way from the enemy, so put on your full armor and refuse to lose your joy. How? Sing good songs all day long. Find the humor in your day. Laugh a lot; laughter is incredibly good for you. Look for reasons to be happy, to be joyful. Now we come to peace. Jesus said he would give us his peace, his unique peace that is strong enough for the toughest circumstances. Have you ever gone to Jesus in prayer and said, “Please give me the peace you promised. I need peace.” I heard a statistic 40% of all people in our country today are in some kind of depression or despair. Have you noticed how many people are searching for some kind of peace? Remember, Jesus' peace is not like the peace the world offers. That peace is a band aid; it seeks to make you feel better with a temporary pain killer, but it just makes things worse. Peter wrote we should seek peace and pursue it. Maybe you need to learn to take peace breaks when your day is going south. Just stop, find an alone spot, refocus your mind on Jesus, quote a verse to yourself and pray for the peace Jesus promised to give you. Pursue peace; go for it. Be the fruit—be peaceful! Forbearance is next in this list of the fruit of the Spirit. We call it patience, and it can be one of the most difficult fruits for us to practice, at least it is for me. But there are so many opportunities in your day to practice patience, and patience takes practice. Pick one situation where you find it particularly difficult to be patient, and start working on it. When you go to the store, stand in the longest line to check out and make yourself wait. Talk to yourself, like: “Just cool it. This is not a big deal. You can wait a few minutes—it doesn't change your life.” Something like that. That is bringing your thoughts into captivity and learning to re-direct your thought patterns. And it is a good way to discipline yourself; to be the fruit—to be patient. Maybe you could use driving as a way for you to practice patience. Be kind to bad or slow drivers. Don’t yell or call other drivers names when you can’t get into the lane you need to. Keep at it until you see a difference in the way you drive and how you feel when you step out of the car. Go, be the fruit! Kindness is next, and we all know what that means, right? No doubt, like me, you're generally pretty kind to people you don't live with, strangers, or people in places of authority. Your words are likely kind and pleasant, but what about the people closest to you? I remember how, before my husband passed, if my words or the tone of my voice were not kind, he wouldn't let me get away with it. He would nicely confront me, and that was good! And you know, that's one way to be more kind—to be the fruit. Ask someone to hold you accountable and not allow you to get by with unkind words or actions. I discovered I simply was unaware that my words or actions sounded unkind. I never intended it but once it was brought to my attention, then I started to notice how quickly I can speak or respond, and how I can come across as unkind. Now that I'm aware, I am much more intentional about making sure my words are kind and sound kind. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you (Ephesians 4:32). I would guess Paul wrote this to the believers in Ephesus because they needed to learn to “be the fruit”—to practice kindness toward each other. Goodness is next. How do you practice goodness? Peter wrote, for this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge (2 Peter 1:5). Make every effort, he says. Isn't he saying, “Be the fruit”? How many times did you tell your children, “Be good!”? And somehow instinctively they knew what you meant, even at very young ages. Being good is directly connected to behavior, right? You do what is good. Here's an idea of how you can add to your faith goodness. Determine to be a better listener. Who needs a listening ear? I'm not talking about giving counsel or solving problems. Just listening. That is so good and it is so helpful to someone going through a difficult time. And of course, once you listen, you can always offer to pray for that person. That would be very good. Faithfulness is a requirement for all Christ-followers. Paul wrote to the believers in Corinth: Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful (1 Corinthians 4:2). Faithful to God—first and foremost—faithful to reading the Bible and prayer, faithful to church attendance and involvement. Faithful to your mate and friends. Keeping promises and being dependable. Would people who know you describe you as faithful or dependable? This is one fruit we can all be, regardless of how smart you are or how educated or experienced you may or may not be. Being faithful is a daily decision you make. Don't promise carelessly. Under promise and over deliver is a very good motto to live by. Then keep a record of all you're responsible to do, every place you're supposed to be, etc., etc. Don't trust your memory. Faithfulness is required—not optional. If this is an area of challenge for you, pray much about it and determine each day to be the fruit—be faithful! Gentleness is next in this list of the fruit of the Spirit. A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (Proverbs 15:1). And you'll remember our Lord Jesus described himself as gentle and lowly of heart. Frankly, the gentleness of Jesus is one thing about him I truly treasure because when he deals with me—and happens often—he always does so with such gentleness. Do you think of yourself as a gentle person? I don't mean wimpy or timid, but gentle; gentle in your words, reactions, facial expressions, tone of your voice? It is a very lovely fruit, and people will greatly appreciate it when you show gentleness to them. There's not a lot of it in our harsh world today, so be the fruit—be gentle. Self-control is putting discipline and restraints in your life to keep you from harm. Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control (Proverbs 25:28). Self-control is not allowing yourself to indulge in things that are not good for you—such as certain food, what you watch on television, what kind of conversations you engage in, etc. I remember a friend of mine, many years ago, was addicted to watching a trashy soap opera every day. She taped it while she was at work and the first thing she did each evening was watch it. God began to convict her of this, and she began to practice self-control. She stopped recording the program. She said it was really hard the first day to walk out of her apartment without turning on the recording, but she exercised self-control and kept it up. That was the beginning of a new vibrant relationship with the Lord, and she has gone on to serve Christ in amazing ways. But it took self-control to turn her back on what she knew was not good for her—for her thinking and her mind—and once she did, it was a marvelous breakthrough for her. By God's grace she broke that bad habit and through self-control, started growing into the outstanding woman she is today. She learned self-control. Is there something in your life that has you in bondage—something not good for you? If there is, I'm certain you can identify it right away. It could be something you watch or read, a place you go, or some eating habits. You can't imagine how freeing it will be for you when you can be the fruit—exercise self-control by God's grace and put that bad habit out of your life. That's my challenge for all of us today: Be the fruit! Memorize this passage from Galatians 5, pray it into your life, put reminders around you, and work on the areas that are the most challenging for you. But don't just talk about it or give verbal consent to the importance of bearing the fruit of the Spirit. Do it! Be the fruit! Paul wrote that against such, there is no law! Nobody can stop you from being the fruit and there is no greater testimony for your faith in Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8a Love never fails. Ephesians 4:1-3 NIV 1 As a prisoner for the Lord, 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. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:4-6 NIV 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. 1. Gifts of the Spirit Ephesians 4:7-8 NIV 7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. 8 This is why it says: “When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people.” Ephesians 4:11-13 NIV 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. 1 Corinthians 12:1 ESV 1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 ESV 4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 1 Corinthians 12:11 ESV 11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills. 1 Corinthians 14:1a NIV 1a Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit... 1 Timothy 4:14a 14 Do not neglect the gift you have... 1 Timothy 4:15 ESV 15 Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. 1. Gifts of the Spirit 2. Growth in the Spirit Ephesians 4:14-16 NIV 14 Then 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. 1. Gifts of the Spirit 2. Growth in the Spirit 3. Grieving the Spirit Ephesians 4:17-21 NIV 17 So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19 Having lost all sensitivity they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed. 20 That, however, is not the way of life you learned 21 when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. Ephesians 4:22-24 NIV 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:25-32 NIV 25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. 29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. 1. Gifts of the Spirit 2. Growth in the Spirit 3. Grieving the Spirit

Sunday, April 12, 2026 - Hebrews 1:1-4 | The writer of Hebrews opens his epistle by affirming that God spoke through both the Old and the New Testaments. His speaking through His Son, however, takes priority. This week we will learn why.

Sunday, April 12, 2026 - Hebrews 1:1-4 | The writer of Hebrews opens his epistle by affirming that God spoke through both the Old and the New Testaments. His speaking through His Son, however, takes priority. This week we will learn why.

Paul names exactly what Jesus does in the locked room: reconciliation that results in sending. “We are therefore Christ's ambassadors…” John 20:19–23 (ESV)On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.”2 Corinthians 5:17–20 (ESV)Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

Basic Bible Study | Galatians & Acts 15-18 (Acts Part 3) In today's podcast, join Chris and Robyn as they continue their discussion. Here is a breakdown of what was discussed: - a little chit-chat about life -the definition of "amen" - recap of James & Acts 8:1b-14 (Acts Part 2) - beware of people who say that we need more than a simple faith in Christ to be saved - Judaizers were twisting the truth about Christ - God chose you to be His even before you were born - while we wait for God's timing, we should continue to study, learn, and grow - we grow spiritually because of God's work in us by His Spirit & not by following special rules - confront in love rather than gossip - what matters to God is that we be completely changed from the inside out - God often worked in & through women in the early church - Chris asks a really good question - what to read for next time “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ABOUT Opening a Bible for the first time can be intimidating. Join Amy & Robyn in an easy-to-follow discussion. This Basic Bible Study is perfect for beginners & those who have never read the Bible. Look for new podcasts every Tuesday & Friday! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ BIBLE RESOURCES https://biblehub.com/ https://www.bible.com/ http://betterdaysarecoming.com/bible/pronunciation.html https://biblespeak.org/ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/mybasicbiblestudy WEBSITE http://www.mybasicbiblestudy.com ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ You can contact us via e-mail or regular old snail-mail: Basic Bible Study 7797 N. 1st St. #34 Fresno, CA 93720 basicbiblestudy19@gmail.com ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

04/03/2026 Hwihu Kang   2 Corinthians 5:16-21 English Standard Version   16 From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.[a] The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling[b] the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

Taste and See that the Lord is Good UOL Retreat in Philadelphia PA on 3/28/2026 In this episode, we look at how the Church's pre- and post-Communion prayers prepare us not just to receive the Eucharist, but to be changed by it. They help us see our need, turn us toward God, and then teach us how to carry His presence into daily life. Communion becomes not just something we receive, but something we learn to live. --- PRE-COMMUNION PRAYERS (UOC-USA PRAYER BOOK) Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ, our God, have mercy on us. Glory to You, our God, glory to You. Prayer to the Holy Spirit О Heavenly King, the Comforter, Spirit of Truth, everywhere present and filling all things. Treasury of Blessings and Giver of Life, come and dwell in us, cleanse us from every impurity and save our souls, O Good One. Thrice-Holy Hymn Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us. (3 times) Small Doxology Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Prayer to the Holy Trinity All-Holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us from our sins. Master, pardon our transgressions. Holy One, visit us and heal our infirmities for Your Name's sake. Lord, have mercy. (3 times) Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. The Lord's Prayer Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy Will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our Daily Bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the Evil One. For Thine is the Kingdom, the Power and the Glory, of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Lord, have mercy. (3 times) Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Invocation to Jesus Christ Come, let us worship God, our King. Come, let us worship and bow down before Christ our King and our God. Come, let us worship and bow down before Christ Himself, our King and our God. Psalm 22 The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want. He settles me in a place of green grass; beside restful water He leads me. He restores my soul; He guides me on the paths of righteousness for His Name's sake. For even if I walk in the midst of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil because You are with me. Your rod and Your staff comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil and my cup overflows. Behold, Your mercy will follow me all the days of my life and I will live in the house of the Lord for the length of my days. Psalm 23 The earth is the Lord's and all its fullness, the world and all who live in it. For He has founded it above the seas and prepared it above the waters. Who will ascend into the mountain of the Lord and who will stand in His holy place? One whose hands are harmless and whose heart is pure, who has not received his soul in vain and has not sworn deceitfully to his neighbor. He will receive blessing from the Lord and mercy from God his Savior. This is the kind who seek the Lord, who seek the Face of the God of Jacob. Lift up your gates, you rulers and be lifted up, you eternal doors and the King of Glory will come in. Who is this King of Glory? The Lord of Hosts, He is the King of Glory. Psalm 115 I kept my Faith even when I said I am greatly afflicted. I said in my amazement: "Every person is a liar!" What shall I give to the Lord for all that He has given me? I will take the cup of salvation and call upon the Name of the Lord. I will pay my vows to the Lord, in the presence of all His people. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints. Lord, I am Your servant – and the child of Your handmaiden. You have burst my bonds apart. I will offer to You the sacrifice of praise and I will call upon the Name of the Lord. I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all His people, in the courts of the house of the Lord, in your midst, Jerusalem. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Alleluia, alleluiа, alleluia, glory to You, our God. (3 times) Tropar, Tone 8 Lord, born of a Virgin, overlook my faults, purify my heart and make it a temple for Your Spotless Body and Blood. Cast me not from Your presence for You have infinitely great mercy. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit;How can I who am unworthy, dare to come to the Communion of Your Holy Things? For even if I should dare to approach You with those who are worthy, my garment betrays me, for it is not a festal robe and I shall bring about the condemnation of my sinful soul. Lord, Lover of mankind, cleanse the pollution from my soul and save me. Now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen.Great is the multitude of my sins, Birth-Giver of God. To you, Pure One, I flee and implore salvation. Visit my sick and feeble soul and intercede with Your Son and our God, that He may grant me remission of my sins, for You alone are blessed. First Prayer – Saint Basil the Great Lord and Master, Jesus Christ our God, Wellspring of Life and Immortality, Maker of every visible and invisible thing, Co-eternal and Co-everlasting Son of the Everlasting Father: in the abundance of Your Goodness, You were incarnate in these latter times, and crucified and buried for us ungrateful and graceless people. Through Your own Blood You have renewed our nature corrupted by sin. Immortal King, though I am a sinner, accept my repentance, incline Your Ear to me and hearken to my words. I have sinned before heaven and before Your Countenance and I am not worthy to gaze upon the immensity of Your Glory. For I have provoked Your Goodness, I have transgressed Your commandments and I have not obeyed Your ordinances. But, Lord, since You do not remember evil, but are long suffering and have great mercy, You have not given me over to destruction for my lawlessness, but have continually awaited my conversion. For You, Lover of Mankind have said through Your prophet, "I desire not the death of sinners, but that they may turn from their evil ways and live." Because You do not wish, Master, that the work of Your Hands should perish, neither, do You take pleasure in the destruction of humanity. Rather, You desire that all people should be saved and come to a knowledge of the Truth. Therefore, even I, though I am unworthy of heaven, earth and of this transitory life, having given myself completely to sin becoming a slave to pleasure and defiling Your Image – yet being Your creation – I despair not of my salvation in my wretchedness. But, emboldened by Your infinite Compassion, I draw near. Therefore, Loving Christ, receive me also as You received the harlot, the thief, the publican and the prodigal. Take away the heavy burden of my sins, You Who take away the sins of the world, Who heal all human infirmity, Who call to Yourself those who are weary and heavy-laden, granting them rest. You came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Cleanse me from every stain of flesh and spirit and teach me to achieve perfect holiness in fear of You, that receiving my share of Your sacred things, I may be united to Your Holy Body and Blood and may have You dwell and abide in me with the Father and Your Holy Spirit. Yes, Lord Jesus Christ, my God, may the partaking of Your Most Pure and Life-Giving Mysteries bring me not to condemnation, nor may I partake unworthily of them. Grant that I, even to my final breath, may receive my share of Your sacred things without condemnation and thereby receive communion with the Holy Spirit as a provision for the journey to eternal life and an acceptable defense before Your Dread Judgment Seat. Lord, grant that I, together with all Your elect, may also be a partaker of immaculate good things which You have prepared for those who love You, with whom You abide and are glorified to the ages. Amen. Second Prayer — Saint John Chrysostom Lord my God, I know that I am not sufficiently worthy that You should come under the roof of the house of my soul, for it is entirely desolate and fallen in ruin and You cannot find in me a worthy place for Your head. But, as You humbled Yourself from on high for our sake, humble Yourself not to the measure of my lowliness. As You took it upon Yourself in the cave to lie in the manger for dumb animals, so take it upon Yourself now to enter into the manger of my ignorant soul and into my defiled body. Since You did not disdain to enter and eat with sinners in the house of Simon the Leper, so take it upon Yourself to likewise enter also into the house of my humble, leprous and sinful soul. As You did not cast out the harlot, a sinner much like me, who came and touched You, so have compassion on me, a sinner, coming to touch You. Since You did not detest the kiss of her sin-stained and unclean mouth, detest not my mouth, which is stained even worse and more unclean than hers as well as my sordid, unclean and shameless lips, nor my even more unclean tongue. Let the fiery coal of Your Most Pure Body and of Your Precious Blood bring me the sanctification, enlightenment and strengthening of my humble soul and body, a relief from the burden of my many transgressions, protection against every operation of the Devil, an aversion and hindrance of my base and evil habits, a mortification of my passions, an accomplishment of your Commandments, an increase in Your divine Grace and an entrance into Your Kingdom. For I do not come to You, Christ my God, in presumption, but having been given full confidence by Your Ineffable Goodness, I approach, lest I stray far from Your communion and become the prey of the wolf of souls. Therefore, I pray, Master Who alone are Holy; sanctify both my soul and body, my mind and heart and my emotions and affections. Renew me entirely, implant Your Fear in my members and make Your sanctification indelible within me. Be my helper and foundation, govern my life in peace and make me worthy to stand at your right hand with Your saints. Through the prayers of Your Most Pure Mother, the pure and immaterial Powers that always serve You and of all the saints who have been well pleasing to You from the ages. Amen. Third Prayer – Saint Simeon the Translator Only Pure and Spotless Lord, Jesus Christ, Wisdom of God, Peace and Power: moved by Your ineffable mercy and love for all mankind, You took up our whole nature from the chaste and virginal blood of the one who wondrously conceived You through the coming of the Holy Spirit and by the favor of Your Eternal Father. In that nature you took it upon Yourself to undergo Your life-giving and saving Passion – the cross, the nails, the spear and death itself. Mortify in me the soul-destroying passions of the body. As you despoiled the dominion of Hades in the tomb, bury in me the spirit of evil. You raised fallen Adam through Your life-bearing Resurrection - so raise me for I am immersed in sin and counsel me in the ways of repentance. You made divine the flesh You assumed and honored it on Your Throne at the Right Hand of the Father in Your Glorious Ascension. By the communion of Your Holy Mysteries make me worthy of a place at Your Right Hand with the saved. You made Your sacred disciples precious vessels by the coming of the Comforter, the Spirit – confirm me also to be a receptacle of His Coming. You promised to come again to judge the world in righteousness – grant that I shall go to meet You in the clouds with all Your saints. For You have made and formed me that I may unceasingly praise and chant hymns to You with Your Eternal Father and Your All-Holy, Good and Life-Creating Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Fourth Prayer – Saint Simeon the Translator Christ my God, as though standing before Your Dread Judgment Seat which does not regard personalities awaiting judgment and rendering an account of the evils I have committed: so today before the day of my condemnation appears, I stand before Your Holy Altar in Your Sight and in the Sight of Your awesome and holy angels. Bowed low by my own conscience, I offer my wicked and lawless actions, triumphing over them by declaring them. Lord, I know my iniquities have increased beyond the number of hairs on my head. The multitude of Your loving kindness is immeasurable and the mercy of Your Goodness and Forbearance beyond description and there is no sin which overcomes Your love for all mankind. Therefore, all marvelous King and merciful Lord, cause Your wondrous mercy to touch even me, a sinner. Receive me, a sinner, as I return to You, as You received the prodigal, the thief and the harlot. As You received those who came at the eleventh hour unworthily, so receive me also, a sinner. I know that You will set these sins I have committed before me and require an accounting of the sins which I have knowingly and unpardonably committed, but neither convict me with fitting judgment, nor chastise me in Your Anger. Lord have mercy on me for though I am weak, I am also the work of Your Hands. You have granted me to revere You, Lord, but I have done evil in Your Sight. Against You only have I sinned, but I beg You, Lord, judge not Your servant for if You will severely mark iniquity, who will survive it? For I am in a sea of sin and am neither worthy nor sufficient to behold and gaze upon the height of heaven for the multitude of my innumerable sins. Who will raise me up? Who has fallen into such evils and transgressions? Lord God, in You have I hoped. Have mercy on me, God, according to Your great mercy and do not reward me, as my deeds deserve. Rather convert, uphold and deliver my soul from the evils implanted in it and from fearsome designs. I will praise and glorify You all the days of my life. For You are the God of those who repent and we glorify You with Your Father without beginning and Your All Holy, Good and Life-Creating Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Fifth Prayer – Saint John of Damascus Lord and Master Jesus Christ our God, You alone have the power to absolve sin. Because You are Good and love all mankind, forgive all my iniquities committed in knowledge or in ignorance. Make me worthy to partake without condemnation of Your divine, glorious, pure and life creating Mysteries, that I may incur neither punishment nor an increase in my sins, but receive cleansing, sanctification, a pledge of the Life and the Kingdom to come, protection, an aid, a turning aside of my adversaries and the blotting out of my many transgressions. For You are a God of Mercy, Loving Kindness and Love for all mankind and we glorify You Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Sixth Prayer – Saint Basil the Great Lord, I know that I partake unworthily of Your Pure Body and Your Precious Blood, my Christ and my God. Yet emboldened by Your Loving Kindness I come to You for You have said, "Those who eat My Flesh and drink My Blood abide in Me and I in them." Therefore, be merciful, Lord and do not rebuke me, a sinner, but deal with me according to Your mercy. And let these Holy Things afford me healing, cleansing, enlightenment, protection, sanctification of soul and body, the averting of every fantasy, evil practice and operation of the devil which works within me. Let them give me confidence and love for You, amendment of life and perseverance, an increase in perfection and virtue, the fulfillment of Your Commandments, communion of the Holy Spirit and a provision for the journey to eternal life and an acceptable answer at Your Dread Judgment Seat, but neither for judgment nor condemnation. Amen. Seventh Prayer - Saint Symeon the New Theologian From lips besmirched and heart impure, from unclean tongue and sin stained soul, receive my pleas, my Christ. Neither overlook my words, my way of speech, nor my annoyingly persistent cry. Grant me the boldness to express all the things for which I long, my Christ, and teach me all that it is fitting for me to do and say. More than the harlot have I sinned. When she learned where You were visiting she brought myrrh, boldly came there and anointed Your Feet. As You, Divine Word, did not cast her out when she came in eagerness of heart, detest me not. Rather give me Your Feet, I pray, for my embrace and my kiss. With the torrent of my tears, as with an ointment of great price, let me dare to anoint them. Purify me, O Word, in my own tears and cleanse me with them. Forgive my errors; grant pardon, for You know the multitude of my sins. You also know the wounds I bear. You see the bruises of my soul. Yet You know my faith, You see my eager heart and hear my sighs. From You, my God, Creator and Redeemer, not one tear is hidden, nor even part of one. Your Eyes know my imperfection, for in Your Book are found those things which are yet unfashioned. Behold my lowliness; behold how great is my weariness. Then God of the entire world, grant me release from all my sins, that with a clean heart and conscience filled with holy fear and a contrite soul, I may partake of Your most pure and spotless Mysteries. The one who eats and drinks with a pure heart has life and divinity. For You have said, my Master, that "those who eat of My Flesh and drink of My Blood do indeed abide in Me and I am likewise found in them." My Master and my God, this saying of Christ is completely true. For one who shares in these Divine and Deifying Graces is not alone, but is with You, Christ, the Triple Radiant Light Who enlightens the whole world. You see that for this I have drawn near to You with tears and contrite soul. Thus, I dare to hope in Your good deeds for us, I partake – both rejoicing and trembling – for I am but grass in fire and behold, a strange wonder! I am refreshed with dew, beyond all words, just as in ancient times the bush burning with fire was not consumed. Therefore, thankful in mind and heart, thankful with all my body and all my soul I worship You, magnify and glorify You, my God for You are blessed both now and to all the ages. Amen. Eighth Prayer - Saint John Chrysostom Lord Jesus Christ, my God, absolve, remit, forgive and pardon me, of all the errors, transgressions and trespasses which I have committed before You – whether in knowledge or in ignorance, in words, deeds, thoughts or intentions. Through the intercession of Your All-Pure Mother, Your heavenly hosts and all the saints, who through the ages have been faithful to You, count me worthy to partake without condemnation of Your Holy and Precious Body and Blood for the healing of both soul and body and for the elimination and the cleansing of my evil thoughts. For Yours is the Kingdom, the Power, the Glory, the Honor and the Worship of the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Ninth Prayer – Saint John of Damascus I stand before the doors of Your temple and I refrain not from evil thoughts. But You, Christ my God, justified the tax collector: You showed mercy to the woman of Canaan and opened the Gates of Paradise to the Thief. Open to me the depths of Your love for all mankind and receive me as I draw near and touch You, even as You did the harlot and the woman with the issue of blood. The latter merely touched the hem of Your garment and immediately received healing and the former, clinging to Your Pure Feet, obtained the release from her sins. But, I in my pitiful state, dare to receive Your Whole Body. May I not be consumed, but receive me even as You received those others and enlighten the feelings of my soul, cleansing my sins; through the prayers of the one who gave You birth without seed and of the heavenly powers, for You are blessed to the ages of ages. Amen. POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS (UOC-USA PRAYER BOOK) Glory to You, O God! (3 times) Lord my God, I thank You that You have not rejected me, a sinner, but have allowed me to be a partaker of Your Holy Things.  I thank You that You have permitted me, though unworthy, to have a share in Your Most Pure and Heavenly Gifts. Master and Lover of Mankind, Who for our sake died and rose again and gave us these Awe-inspiring and Life-giving Mysteries for the benefit and sanctification of our souls and bodies: let these Gifts be for the healing of my own soul and body, for the averting of every adversary, the illumination of the eyes of my heart, the peace of my spiritual powers, an unashamed faith, an unfeigned love, the realizing of wisdom, the observance of Your Commandments, the receiving of Your Divine Grace and the inheritance of Your Kingdom. Preserved by them in Your holiness, may I always be mindful of Your Grace, no longer living for myself, but for You, our Master and Benefactor.  May I then pass from this life in the hope of Eternal Life and attain to the Everlasting Rest where the voice of those who feast is unceasing and the unending delight of those who behold the beauty of Your Face is inexpressible. For You, Christ our God, are truly the ineffable joy and desire of all those who love You and all creation sings Your praise to the ages of ages. Amen. Second Prayer following Communion By Saint Basil the Great I thank You, Christ, Master and God, King of the Ages and Maker of All Things, for all the Good Gifts You have given me and especially for the participation in Your Most Pure and Life-creating Mysteries. Therefore, I pray, Gracious Lord, Who loves all mankind, that You preserve me under Your protection and beneath the shadow of Your Wings. Grant that even to my final breath, I may partake worthily and with a pure conscience of Your Holy Things for the remission of my sins and for Eternal Life. For You are the Bread of Life, the Wellspring of Holiness, the Giver of all Good and we glorify You, together with the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Third Prayer following Communion By Saint Simeon the Translator You Who willingly give Your Flesh to me as Food, Who are a Fire burning the unworthy; let me not be consumed, my Creator. Rather, enter into all my members – my joints, my inner being and my heart. Burn the thorns of my iniquities. Purify my soul and sanctify my reasoning.  Strengthen my joints and bones. Enlighten my five senses. Bind me completely with reverence for You. Always shelter, guard and keep me from every soul-corrupting word and deed. Cleanse, purify and harmonize my being. Beautify me, grant me understanding and enlighten me. Show me to be the Habitation of Your One Holy Spirit and no longer the abode of sin, that having become Your Dwelling Place because of the Communion of Your Holy Mysteries, every evil deed and passion may flee from me as from fire. As intercessors, I bring all the Saints: the leaders of the Bodiless Hosts, Your Forerunner, the Most Wise Apostles and with them, Your undefiled, Most-pure Mother. Accept their prayers Christ, my Merciful One and make me a Child of Light. For You, Good One, are the only Sanctification and Enlightenment of our souls and to You, as God and Master, we worthily render glory day by day. Amen. Fourth Prayer following Communion May Your Holy Body, Lord Jesus Christ our God, be for me Life Eternal and Your Precious Blood for the remission of my sins. May this Eucharist grant me joy, health and gladness. At Your Dread Second Coming make me, a sinner, worthy to stand at the Right Hand of Your Glory, through the intercessions of Your All-pure Mother and of all Your saints. Fifth Prayer following Communion To the Birth-Giver of God All Holy Lady, Birth-Giver of God, light of my darkened soul – my hope, my shelter and refuge, my consolation and joy; I thank you for accepting me, the unworthy one, as a communicant of the Most-pure Body and Precious Blood of your Son. In that you gave birth to the True Light, enlighten the intellectual eyes of my heart. As the one who carried the Fountain of Immortality in your womb, enliven me, slain by sin. Merciful Mother of the Most-merciful God, full of loving kindness, have mercy on me, grant me contrition and compunction of heart, humility in my thoughts, and the ability to recall my reasoning from its captivity. Make me worthy, until my final breath, to receive the sanctification of the Most Pure Mysteries without condemnation, for healing of soul and body. Grant me tears of repentance and confession, that I may chant hymns and glorify You all the days of my life, for blessed and glorified are You to the ages. Amen. Master, now let Your servant depart in peace, according to Your word; for my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared in the presence of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to Your people Israel. Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us. (3 times) Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. All-Holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, cleanse us from our sins. Master, pardon our transgressions. Holy One, visit us and heal our infirmities for Your Name's sake. Lord, have mercy. (3 times) Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy Will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our Daily Bread and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.  And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the Evil One. For Yours is the Kingdom and the Power and the Glory of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Depending upon which Liturgy was celebrated, one of the following Tropars and Kondaks are said.Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom Tropar, Tone 8 Grace shining forth from your mouth like a beacon has enlightened the universe, disclosing to the world treasures of generosity and showing us the heights of humility.  Since you instruct us by your words, Father John Chrysostom, intercede with Christ God, the Word Himself, to save our souls. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kondak, Tone 6 From heaven you received divine grace and by your lips you teach all to worship the one God in Trinity, All-blessed and Venerable John Chrysostom. Worthily do we extol you, for you are an instructor who reveals things divine. Now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen. Liturgy of Saint Basil the GreatTropar, Tone 1 Your voice has gone out to all the earth and it has received your word. By it you taught divine doctrine making the nature of things, which exist, clear and giving good order to human behavior. Venerable Father and Royal Priest Basil, intercede with Christ our God, that He may save our souls. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Kondak, Tone 4 You appeared as an unshakable foundation of the Church passing down an inviolate dominion to all mortals, sealing it with your teachings, Venerable Basil, revealer of Heaven. Now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen.Bohorodychnyi, Tone 6 Protection of Christians not put to shame, unwavering Mediation before the Creator; despise not the prayer of sinners, but because you are good, quickly come to help us who call on you in faith. Be swift to intercede and make haste to supplicate, Birth-Giver of God, who always protects those who honor you. Lord, have mercy. (12 times) More honorable than the Cherubim and beyond compare more glorious than the Seraphim. You, Who without defilement did bare God the Word, true Birth-Giver of God, we magnify You. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and to the ages of ages. Amen Lord, have mercy. (3 times) Lord, Jesus Christ, Son of God, through the prayers of Your Most Pure Mother and all the saints, have mercy on us. Amen.    

How can we live "strong in grace.”? The answer is quite plain and simple: We grow strong in grace when we understand God's unconditional forgiveness of us, then learn to unconditionally forgive others. God calls us to grow strong in giving grace to others — growing in Christlikeness Giving grace to another person is simply to forgive them, unconditionally, just as God forgave us through Christ SO, WHAT IS FORGIVENESS? Forgiveness = Deliberate release of anger, resentment, and other negative feelings toward someone who has wronged you GRUDGE (Merriam-Webster) A persistent, long-lasting feeling of deep-seated resentment, bitterness, or ill will toward someone, often stemming from a past insult, injury, or perceived wrongdoing. It involves holding onto anger rather than letting it go, sometimes leading to a desire for retaliation or a continued refusal to forgive.   Not all negative emotions are the same.   Healthy anger motivates action, sets boundaries, and seeks solutions.   Grudges, however, act as long-lasting emotional weights with negative outcomes.  It negatively impacts your relationship with God. It negatively impacts your other relationships. It affects your health. — mentally and physically It affects your soul Hebrews 12:14-15 (tells us what happens when we fall short of grace): Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.  Ephesians 4:30-32 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.  DO YOU UNDERSTAND HOW MUCH GRACE YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN? Oswald Chambers. We trample the blood of the Son of God if we think we are forgiven because we are sorry for our sins. The only explanation for the forgiveness of God and for the unfathomable depth of His forgetting is the death of Jesus Christ. Our repentance is merely the outcome of our personal realization of the atonement which He has worked out for us. It does not matter who or what we are; there is absolute reinstatement into God by the death of Jesus Christ and by no other way, not because Jesus Christ pleads, but because He died. It is not earned, but accepted. All the pleading which deliberately refuses to recognize the Cross is of no avail; it is battering at a door other than the one that Jesus has opened. Our Lord does not pretend we are all right when we are all wrong. The atonement is a propitiation whereby God, through the death of Jesus, makes an unholy man holy. "The purpose of the cross," someone observed, "is to repair the irreparable.” “If someone says, ‘I love God,' and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother who he has seen, how can he love God who he has not seen?” (1 John 4:20-21 NKJV).  If our relationship with God is so intricately connected with how we relate to others, it won't be surprising then for us to read what Jesus said  Matthew 6:14-15 (directly after teaching them how to pray ‘Lord's Prayer')  14 For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.   Matthew 6:12   And forgive us our debts,      as we also have forgiven our debtors.  Imagine that, before we get this warning from Jesus (14-15), Jesus told us to ask God for grace (forgiveness) but only at the same level and frequency as the forgiveness we extend to others.   Whether we admit it or not, we often think we have the right to “punish” others because they have hurt us or offended us. We believe we are justified in withholding forgiveness from them.  Unforgiveness is inherently contradictory to godliness “Often it is the case that we judge others by their worst actions, and we judge ourselves by our best intentions.” Just as we don't deserve God's forgiveness, someone you know may not deserve yours. It doesn't matter  We are still commanded to forgive them because we have been forgiven so much first.  “The devil doesn't care if you go to church or read your Bible as long as you don't apply it to your life.” THE LITMUS TEST FOR GRACE Have you extended the grace of God, the grace of forgiveness, towards the person(s) who has hurt you the most and least deserves it? Forgiveness is an action you must choose, rather than a feeling you must create THE CHOICE IS CLEAR AND IT'S YOURS TODAY Repent of unforgiveness & Release it so you no longer carry that anger/resentment/grudge no matter how justified you feel in doing so.

The topic for this episode is something that is absolutely essential to building a strong and happy marriage. In fact, I have never seen a marriage truly thrive without this thing, but I've seen many a marriage crumble in its absence. Tune in to find what this important ingredient is, and how it can miraculously transform a not-so-happily-ever-after marriage. Show Notes VERSES CITED: Ephesians 4:15 -“...speaking the truth in love.” 2 Timothy 3:1-6 - "...in the last days difficult times will come...." Colossians 3:12-17 - "...clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion...." James 4:6-10 - ” ...Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you." 1 Peter 5:5-6 - "...humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you..." Matthew 18:21-22 - "...Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me?..." Ephesians 4:32 - "...forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Philippians 2:3-4 - "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit...." Romans 15:1-2 -  "Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those..." 1 Thessalonians 5:18 - “In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” Colossians 4:2 – “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Ephesians 5:20 – “always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Psalm 105:1  - “Give thanks to the LORD and proclaim His greatness. Let the whole world know what He has done.” Psalm 107:1 – “Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” James 1:17 - "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father..." Philippians 4:8 - “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:6 - “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” John 2:9-10 - "When the headwaiter tasted the water which had become wine, and...." RELATED LINKS: Free Printable Prayer Guides - download as many of these as you like from my Loving Life at Home blog Love Your Husband/Love Yourself - with regard to sex, this is a why-to book, not a how-to EP 82: On Cultivating Contentment - another really important trait for marital bliss! EP 10: We Find What We Look For - motivation to change your focus if you tend to find fault EP 104: Giving Thanks Through Hardship - admittedly a challenge, but it is doable Don't Let Anything Steal Your Joy - we must guard against these stealthy theives of joy and contentment On Remembering to Say Thank You - because gratitude begs to be expressed Free Printable Thank You Notes - several designs to choose from Be Thankful -- and Give Thanks - a short post, but with a great quote on gratitude   STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website        

Hey y'all ! Welcome to another Friday with CWCOI ! In this week's episode, our host, Ally Yost talks about grace within the church. In most cases, it is relatively easy for us to extend grace to those around us who are in the world and it's not always as easy to extend that same grace to those who are are in the body of Christ. We all recieve grace from God and when we understand and recieve that, we are then able to equally extend that same grace to others. "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32 _____________________________________________ ☆ If you're struggling with OCD or unrelenting intrusive thoughts, NOCD can help ➤ Book a free 15 minute call to get started ➤ https://learn.nocd.com/CWCOI ☆ College Women, to start a Delight chapter on your campus or to learn more information visit ➤  www.delightministries.com/startadelight ☆ For their buy 1 get 1 50% off deal, head to ➤ 3DayBlinds.com/COFFEE ☆ Go to ➤ cozyearth.com/COFFEE for up to 20% off! ☆ Go to ➤ brooklynbedding.com and use code COFFEE at checkout for 30% off sitewide ☆ REP CWCOI MERCH ➤ https://allyyost.com  ☆ MY BIBLE (code 'ALLYYOST' at checkout) ➤ https://hosannarevival.com/collections/beautiful-bibles/products/nlt-notetaking-bible-versailles-theme  ☆ TUMBLER LINK ➤ https://allyyost.com/products/travel-tumbler _____________________________________________ Connect further with us ! TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@christwithcoffeeonice  Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/christwithcoffeeonice  _____________________________________________ Connect further with Ally ! TikTok (2M) ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@ally_yost  Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/ally_yost/  ShopMy ➤ https://shopmy.us/allyyost  Pinterest ➤ https://www.pinterest.com/ally_yost1/_created/