Podcasts about in christ

Don't Take the Bait—The Enemy's Lies & Temptations Are Setting You Up | Blessed Morning PrayerSUBSCRIBE to catch all the latest prayers uploaded to the Daily Effective Prayer Podcast!For more powerful daily prayers and to connect with the ministry visit:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org© Copyright DailyEffectivePrayer.com  SUPPORT THE MINISTRY: (We are listener-supported)https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/donate/ DO YOU NEED PRAYER? Send us a prayer request right now:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/prayer-request-online/ CONNECT WITH US:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/connectYouTube (1M+ SUBSCRIBERS)X / TwitterInstagram ThreadsInstagramFacebook Daily Effective Prayer™

We invite you this week to focus on understanding our identity in Christ as we engage in spiritual battle, highlighting the practical meaning and Old Testament roots of the armor God equips us with. Based on Ephesians 6:13-17, let's consider our identity and readiness in spiritual battle! We invite you to consider purchasing the accompanying workbook here: https://www.gospelspice.com/identity  Context: Identity in the Midst of Battle The Christian life necessarily involves a spiritual battle. The Apostle Paul calls believers to “stand”—not in our own strength, but grounded in our new identity in Christ. Paul's instruction to put on the “full armor of God” isn't new; its roots run deep in the Old Testament, with key imagery borrowed from books like Isaiah and Deuteronomy. In Isaiah 11:5 and 59:17, righteousness, faithfulness, and salvation appear as God's own armor. This armor is now given to us, His adopted children, not as a child's imitation set but as the genuine armor of our commander. Why the Armor Fits—Old and New Testament Connections Paul isn't inventing something new for the church in Ephesians. The same armor God Himself wears in Isaiah—righteousness as a breastplate, salvation as a helmet—is now available to every believer, thanks to our adoption in Christ. In God's army, the commander and soldiers wear the same “colors”—we share in God's strength and righteousness. The armor is also prophetic: Isaiah 59 speaks of the coming of the Messiah like a rushing stream (an echo of Pentecost) and describes how God's Spirit will seal and empower His people. This sealing (see Ephesians 1:13) corresponds with being clothed in God's armor. Seven Elements of the Armor While many list six pieces, Ephesians points to seven, symbolizing fullness and perfection: Belt of Truth: Truth is both light and freedom. It's the foundation that supports all other pieces, anchoring our identity in what God has said and done, not our own perception or the world's lies. Breastplate of Righteousness: This isn't self-righteousness but Christ's righteousness. It's described as a “heart protector,” guarding us against accusations—whether from the enemy or our own self-doubt. Standing in Christ's righteousness, not our own, keeps us from the traps of pride or despair. Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: These boots provide both stability (standing firm) and mobility (readiness to move). They symbolize preparation and the peace rooted in the gospel, enabling us to stand and advance as one body with other believers. Shield of Faith Helmet of Salvation Sword of the Spirit (the Word of God) Prayer—the element that undergirds and animates all the others, keeping us connected to God and alert in the battle. Application: Standing Ready God calls us to “put on” and “take up” these elements daily—not hastily when the enemy attacks, but as preparation for victorious living. The Christian walk is not passive; it's a team endeavor, fought best in community, by truthfully embracing our identity and actively trusting God's provision. The full armor of God is a gift of grace, perfectly suited for each believer, grounding us in truth, righteousness, and peace, and continually energized by prayer. This is how we stand firm and advance in the spiritual battle, secure in our identity as children of God. ----- IDENTITY IN THE BATTLE WORKBOOK ------ You have the option to go beyond listening to this series, and to participate actively. This exclusive Gospel Spice Ministries resource is available at gospelspice.com/identity . You will receive a downloadable, printable workbook containing listening guide for each of the 6 episodes in this series, space for note taking, and discussion questions if you want to do this study with a friend! What better way to enjoy a cup of coffee with a friend this season, than to discuss your identity in the battle together? So, grab a friend or family member, or someone to mentor or be mentored by, and signup together.  Every week, Stephanie shares truth from Scripture and invites you to dig deeper in your faith to delight in the glory of God. PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the link with friends and family PAY IT FORWARD by supporting us financially PRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with! Find out more at gospelspice.com We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Excel Still More Journal - AmazonDaily Bible Devotional Series - AmazonSponsors:  Spiritbuilding Publishers Website:  www.spiritbuilding.comTyler Cain, Senior Loan Officer, Statewide MortgageWebsites: https://statewidemortgage.com/https://tylercain.floify.com/Phone: 813-380-8487Note: Today we covered four storiesCreation / Flood/ Red Sea / NaamanNewness / Cleansing / Freedom / RestorationBut they were all temporary. IN Christ we are forever His, so long as we live by faith in Him!Lyrics from Left It in the River:I had burdens on my shoulders all my lifeI tried and tried to leave 'em all behindBut freedom's one thing I could never find (Mmm-mmm)I said a prayer from the banks of a riverGod met me there, showing me something betterMmm-mmmMy life was changedWhen I stepped into the waterAin't seen my chainsSince I gave 'em to the FatherHallelujah, I've been deliveredWhere is my guilt?Where is my shame?I left it in the river, (river), ohI left it in the river, (river), ohNow, there's nothing that can take this joy I've foundHe raised me up and I ain't coming downHe washed me clean and now there ain't no doubtHe turned it all aroundMy life was changedWhen I stepped into the waterAin't seen my chainsSince I gave 'em to the FatherHallelujah, I've been deliveredWhere is my guilt?Where is my shame?I left it in the river, (river), ohI left it in the river, (river), oh-ohI said a prayer from the banks of a riverGod met me there showing me something betterI left my wrongs at the bottom of the riverI said so long, said goodbye foreverMy life was changedWhen I stepped into the waterAin't seen my chainsSince I gave 'em to the FatherHallelujah, I've been deliveredWhere is my guilt?Where is my shame?I left it in the river, (river), ohI left it in the river, (river), ohI left it in the river, (river), ohI left it in the river, (river), ohI left it in the river

God Is Still Writing Your Story—Don't Quit On This Chapter | Blessed Morning Prayer To Start The DaySUBSCRIBE to catch all the latest prayers uploaded to the Daily Effective Prayer Podcast!For more powerful daily prayers and to connect with the ministry visit:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org© Copyright DailyEffectivePrayer.com  SUPPORT THE MINISTRY: (We are listener-supported)https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/donate/ DO YOU NEED PRAYER? Send us a prayer request right now:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/prayer-request-online/ CONNECT WITH US:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/connectYouTube (1M+ SUBSCRIBERS)X / TwitterInstagram ThreadsInstagramFacebook Daily Effective Prayer™

In Christ, we're free to do anything we want … but we're not free from the consequences.  Some choices can wound us, wound others, and place us in bondage.

In Christ, we rise above what we were.

Our text comes from 1 Timothy 6:6: But godliness with contentment is great gain. Gahazi's is a sad story. As Elisha's servant, he watched as Elisha refused payment for the healing of Naaman. Gahazi thought this was rubbish. He slipped out the back door to follow Naaman. Interrupting the commander's journey home, he lied about his purposes and came away with a sizable payment, which he hid. But of course, Elisha was wise to him. As punishment, Gahazi was inflicted with Naaman's leprosy. Gahazi lived with and served God's primary prophet in Israel. He knew the miracles that both Elijah and Elisha had performed. Surely, he knew that to provide adequately for his prophets was no big deal for the God of Israel. Provision he had aplenty. Access to God he had at his fingertips. Yet he wanted more. He was not content. Paul warns us about this, “Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs” (1 Timothy 6:9-10). Instead, pursue this, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” There's a quiet strength in these words — a kind of wisdom that cuts against the grain. We are surrounded by messages that tell us gain comes from getting — more possessions, more comfort, more status. But Paul says, true gain does not come from adding more. This is not a contentment that shrugs its shoulders and settles for less. It's a deep sufficiency — a settled peace that flows from knowing that Christ is enough. We don't find contentment by ignoring the world's goodness, but by knowing where our ultimate treasure lies. This contentment isn't natural. We must learn it as Paul did, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” That learning often comes through loss, through the stripping away of the things we thought we needed. And in those moments, we discover that we can lose everything and still have Christ — and therefore still have everything that matters. Godliness with contentment — that's not a small thing. It's freedom. Freedom from envy. Freedom from anxiety. Freedom from the restless drive to prove ourselves. It is the life of one who has found their joy in God Himself. So, what does this look like for us? It changes the reasons for paid employment. It changes the way we purchase things. As you go about your activities this week, keep an eye on your heart. Pay attention to the moments when discontentment rises. In Christ, we already possess the greatest treasure — and when we have Him, we can learn contentment, knowing that nothing more can make us truly rich. As you journey on, go with the blessing of God: Wherever God takes you today, may He fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit and that you may live carefully—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.

My Identity Is IN CHRIST Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people IN CHRIST JESUS at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: (NIV) 1. YOUR IDENTITY IS IN CHRIST Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints IN CHRIST Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: (ESV) Colossians 1:2 To the saints and faithful brothers IN CHRIST at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father. (ESV) Ephesians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful IN CHRIST JESUS (ESV) Colossians 1:26–27 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is CHRIST IN YOU, the hope of glory. (NIV) Romans 8:11 And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living IN YOU, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives IN YOU. (NIV) Galatians 3:26 For IN CHRIST Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. (ESV) 2. YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS IS IN CHRIST Philippians 3:9 and be found IN HIM, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith (ESV) 2 Corinthians 5:21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that IN HIM we might become the righteousness of God. (ESV) Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are IN CHRIST JESUS. (ESV) Ephesians 1:7 IN HIM we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, (ESV) Ephesians 4:32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God IN CHRIST forgave you. (ESV) Ephesians 2:13 But now IN CHRIST JESUS you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. (ESV) 1 Corinthians 1:2 To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified IN CHRIST JESUS, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours: (ESV) 2 Timothy 1:9 Who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us IN CHRIST Jesus before the ages began, (ESV) 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is IN CHRIST, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV) 3. YOUR GODLY MIND IS IN CHRIST Philippians 2:5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours IN CHRIST JESUS, (ESV) 4. YOUR HUMILITY IS IN CHRIST Philippians 2:5- 8 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours IN CHRIST Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (ESV) 5. YOUR CONFIDENCE IS IN CHRIST Philippians 3:3 For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory IN CHRIST JESUS and put no confidence in the flesh (ESV) Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives IN ME. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (ESV) Ephesians 3:12 In whom we have BOLDNESS and access with confidence through our faith IN HIM. (ESV) 6. YOUR PEACE IS IN CHRIST 7. YOUR NEEDS ARE MET IN CHRIST Philippians 4:19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory IN CHRIST JESUS. (ESV) 1. Am I truly In Christ Jesus? 2. Am I confusing my wants with my needs? 3. Am I obeying God’s word? Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us IN CHRIST with EVERY spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, (ESV)

In week 3 of Anchored: A Journey Through Romans 8, Pastor Trenton Dorner preached from Romans 8:18–30. Following Jesus doesn't mean our problems disappear—we'll still face difficulties and trials. But as Jesus followers, we know how our story ends: glory is coming! Because we have that future hope, we can endure almost anything in the middle of the struggle. In this message, we learned three key truths: In Christ, your present is incomparable to your future Waiting is the way to glory We have a present help and a secured future If you're walking through a difficult season, this message is for you. Check it out!

CHRIST: II Timothy 2:10 (Philippians 2:1-11) Last? Paul learned to be others-centered! CONTEXT: Paul writes first to Timothy. These three verses are personal; they are powerful; they are problematic.I. The Impact of the Gospel is Past, Present, & Future: Condition & Promise  1. IF WE DIED (past tense) - conversion language; Jesus died for us; We died with Him; In Adam or In Christ; Luke 9:23; Romans 6:1-8, 11; Galatians 2:20 (“Were you there”); Colossians 3:1-3  2. WE WILL ALSO LIVE WITH HIM (future tense) - see 4:8  3. If we can look back with confidence, then we can look forward with assurance -  4. IF WE ENDURE (Bear up under much pressure; under a load); Jesus endured to the end; Paul endured to the end (lion's mouth); All of God's people will endure; Matthew 24:14; Possess the endurance of a soldier; Possess the endurance of an athlete; Possess the endurance of a farmer!  • WE WILL ALSO REIGN WITH HIM (future tense) - right now counts forever! Great motivation to persevere under the pressure of persecution; I Cor 6:2-3; Rev 3:21; 20:4, 6 (The Millennium)  5. IF WE DENY/DISOWN HIM (negative promise but a promise nonetheless); Have you ever had momentary failures; Failing to speak; Failing to be silent; Timidity sets in; Shame enters in; Don't take the Lord's Name in vain (much more than coarse words); means to live in a way that misrepresents the One we claim to believe in - the One we claim to love; We can't call ourselves Christ-followers and live any way we want; Is this falling from grace? AWOL - Loss of the pride of fighting? Loss of the prize? Loss of the crops? Denied joy, power, prayer (Ps 68:18); forfeiting much blessing  •HE WILL DENY US - “I never knew you”? Matthew 7:21-23;  6. IF WE ARE FAITHLESS (not false faith, but a faulty faith) - I Timothy 1 - “I am sure if your sincere faith”; 2:4 - don't get “entangled”;  • HE REMAINS FAITHFUL - Hebrews He is not ashamed of us; Jesus predicted Peter's denials AND He predicted Peter's restoration!  • FOR HE CANNOT DENY HIMSELF -

IN CHRIST 43 MSG

This One Shift In Thinking Can Change Your Whole Life | Blessed Morning Prayer To Start Your DaySUBSCRIBE to catch all the latest prayers uploaded to the Daily Effective Prayer Podcast!For more powerful daily prayers and to connect with the ministry visit:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org© Copyright DailyEffectivePrayer.com  SUPPORT THE MINISTRY: (We are listener-supported)https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/donate/ DO YOU NEED PRAYER? Send us a prayer request right now:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/prayer-request-online/ CONNECT WITH US:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/connectYouTube (1M+ SUBSCRIBERS)X / TwitterInstagram ThreadsInstagramFacebook Daily Effective Prayer™

Glory is not a distant light to be admired, but a divine fire shared.In Christ, humanity is not only forgiven but transformed — made radiant through the indwelling Spirit.The believer's journey is a passage “from glory to glory,” where holiness becomes beauty and faith becomes light.“The same glory that shone on Christ's face now shines within His people.”

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Job 13-14; Acts 17-18 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible, your daily companion on a journey through the Scriptures. In today's episode, host Hunter invites listeners from around the world to gather by the “fires of God's love” on this 23rd day of October. Together, we dive into Job chapters 13 and 14, where Job passionately argues his case before God, wrestling with suffering, justice, and hope. Next, we move into Acts chapters 17 and 18, following Paul and Silas as they face opposition and share the message of Jesus throughout Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, and Corinth. Along the way, we encounter inspiring figures like Priscilla and Aquila, who gently guide Apollos into a deeper understanding of faith in Christ. Through thoughtful reflection, heartfelt prayer, and words of encouragement, Hunter reminds us that our true rest and identity is found in Jesus. So grab your Bible, settle in, and let's explore these powerful stories together—trusting that through it all, we are deeply loved and never alone. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Aquila and Priscilla and the Invitation to Rest Aquila and Priscilla went to help Apollos. And they want to help us too. They want to point us to our baptism into Christ. Apollos, we're told, only knew about the baptism of John, but Priscilla and Aquila point us beyond that—to our baptism into Christ, an even greater hope and assurance. This is the amazing, liberating news: that God has reconciled us to himself and drawn us into his life. Our identity is not wrapped up in our striving, our performance, or our attempts at holiness. Our identity is in Christ—deeply rooted in what He has done, not what we can do. Baptism, Priscilla and Aquila would remind us, signifies this new reality. Ours is not to strive after some unattainable perfection, but to rest in who Jesus says we are—trusting in His perfection, His holiness, and His love. In Christ, God assumed all of humanity into Himself, so that we might participate in the loving life that Jesus shares with the Father and the Spirit. This is what Priscilla and Aquila invited Apollos to discover: not just a message about repentance, but the ongoing, participatory life in Christ, where we rest, and our joy and strength is found. And that is the invitation laid before us today—to rest in what Jesus has done, to find our strength and joy there. Let us not be anxious or strive in our own strength, but remember that Jesus has included us, adopted us, and called us His own. That's a prayer I hold for my own soul. That's a prayer I have for my family—for my wife, my daughters, and my son. And that's a prayer I have for you: may we rest in our true identity in Christ, and live each day from that grace-filled place. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... 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 tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

The Battle Never Reached You—Because God Stopped It First | Blessed Morning Prayer To Start Your DaySUBSCRIBE to catch all the latest prayers uploaded to the Daily Effective Prayer Podcast!For more powerful daily prayers and to connect with the ministry visit:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org© Copyright DailyEffectivePrayer.com  SUPPORT THE MINISTRY: (We are listener-supported)https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/donate/ DO YOU NEED PRAYER? Send us a prayer request right now:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/prayer-request-online/ CONNECT WITH US:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/connectYouTube (1M+ SUBSCRIBERS)X / TwitterInstagram ThreadsInstagramFacebook Daily Effective Prayer™

Glory (doxa) and worship are not separate realities — they are the heartbeat of divine life.Glory is the radiance of God turned outward; worship is that radiance turned back toward its source.In Christ, the revelation of glory and the response of worship meet perfectly — the Son manifests the Father's splendour and returns it in obedient love, completing the eternal circle of glory.The Church, joined to Christ by the Spirit, now lives within this rhythm of revelation and response. Every act of adoration, every life surrendered in faith, becomes a participation in divine glory.Worship is not performance — it is participation; not self-expression, but self-offering.“We are not spectators of glory, but participants in the radiant exchange of divine love.”

In Christ, the story of creation's lost glory finds its restoration.He, the true Image and new Adam, gathers a Bride — the Church — and clothes her in splendour not her own. Her beauty is not borrowed but bestowed; her light not independent but reflected from the Lamb who loves her.The Church's glory is therefore cruciform — radiant through sacrifice, adorned through faithfulness, purified through grace. Her splendour is participation, not possession. For as Paul writes, “Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her… that He might present her to Himself in splendour.”Here, glory is restored: the divine presence once lost in Eden now dwelling within the redeemed community. Worship becomes transformation, and holiness becomes the reflection of divine beauty.“The Bride's glory is the light of her Bridegroom made visible in her.”

God Will Show You What You Can't See On Your Own | Blessed Morning Prayer To Start Your Day With GodSUBSCRIBE to catch all the latest prayers uploaded to the Daily Effective Prayer Podcast!For more powerful daily prayers and to connect with the ministry visit:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org© Copyright DailyEffectivePrayer.com  SUPPORT THE MINISTRY: (We are listener-supported)https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/donate/ DO YOU NEED PRAYER? Send us a prayer request right now:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/prayer-request-online/ CONNECT WITH US:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/connectYouTube (1M+ SUBSCRIBERS)X / TwitterInstagram ThreadsInstagramFacebook Daily Effective Prayer™

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder," is what the old adage says but what does it mean?  What is Beauty and how should people ingage with that which is considered "beautiful."  In this final message of the In Christ series, Pastor Fikre Prince shares a framework for understanding the origins of beauty, the importance of beauty, and our role in bringing about beauty into the the world.Text: Ephesians 2:4-10Sermon Summary:Big Idea: In Christ, we enjoy and create to reflect God's Beauty.Key Question: What does it mean to value Beauty as the people of God?God is the source of beauty. (Psalm 19:1)We are created to enjoy and create. (Ephesians 2:10)Beauty points to Jesus. (Hebrews 1:3)

Bobby looks back on the life and ministry of Pastor Russ G. Young, the faithful shepherd who shaped his family, church, and calling. From a hungry youth group that exploded from ~15 teens to hundreds, to a church built—literally and spiritually—on the Word, Pastor Young modeled uncompromising preaching, Spirit-dependence, and love for souls. Bobby recounts personal moments (including sharing gratitude at Pastor Young's bedside) and connects the story to a call for total surrender and confidence that, in Christ, we are “more than conquerors.” The episode is part remembrance and part rallying cry for young believers to say “yes” to Jesus and watch God use their lives.Topics DiscussedPastor Russ Young's legacy in Maple Shade/Pennsauken, NJPreaching the Bible plainly and applying it to real teen issuesYouth ministry that was both fun and gospel-focused (“Bigger & Better,” outreach, soulwinning)God's providence in redirecting callings (missionary aviation → pastor)The power of Spirit-anointed preaching and evangelismSurrender, obedience, and living as “more than conquerors” in ChristGratitude, grief, and hope in the face of deathKey TakeawaysFaithful, clear Bible preaching—without apology or compromise—shapes lives and churches.God often redirects good plans to His best; say “yes” to Jesus and trust His leading.Healthy youth ministry blends joyful activity with bold, gospel-centered proclamation.Legacy multiplies through people reached, discipled, and sent.In Christ, even grief is framed by victory: we are more than conquerors through His love. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.

This week at Venture, Pastor Brandon kicks off our journey through the book of Ephesians, reminding us that the life we have in Christ is one of incredible blessing, identity, and purpose. Through the story of Hetty Green, a woman who lived in poverty despite her great wealth, we're challenged to stop living spiritually empty when we've already been given everything through Jesus. Paul's letter to the Ephesians shows us what it means to be chosen, redeemed, and adopted as God's sons and daughters. It's a call to live fully in the richness of God's grace. ⏱️ Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome to Venture Church Online0:34 – Hetty Green: The richest miser3:18 – Wealth and living like we're poor3:47 – Introducing the book of Ephesians6:07 – Paul's story and why he matters9:24 – Why Ephesus was such a big deal14:10 – Ephesians: deep theology and daily application20:28 – “In Christ” — the most important word23:19 – Benefit 1: Redemption25:59 – Benefit 2: Chosen by God34:24 – Benefit 3: Adopted into His family36:56 – Living like sons and daughters37:57 – Invitation to follow Jesus40:31 – Prayer and response

Wrecked. YET. Renewed. - "Wrecked by Bitterness" - Genesis 37:3-8, 18, 23-28; 42:21, 45:1-8 The story of Joseph and his brothers shows what happens when bitterness rules a family—and what redemption looks like when God steps in. From jealousy and betrayal to forgiveness and restoration, Joseph's journey reminds us that even when our family history feels wrecked, God can renew it. Your past doesn't have to define your future. In Christ, bitterness can stop with you—and forgiveness can begin.

In Christ, You’ve got a new identity, so stop wearing the old clothes. Take off what doesn’t fit your new life and put on the holiness that shows who you really are: someone made new by Jesus.

Recorded on Sunday, October 19, 2025. Other scripture cited: Isaiah 53:3-5; John 17:20-23.Support the show

Send us a textWhat if we've been aiming at the wrong finish line for the church? Scripture's rhythm says seven means completion—but the story doesn't stop there. The eighth day signals a consecrated beginning, a step from preparation into courageous obedience. We take that thread and pull it through the entire life of the local church, asking hard questions about why services feel anemic, why leaders chase brands, and why difficult texts get skipped when “verse by verse” suddenly turns vague.We start with covenant. In the Old Testament, circumcision on the eighth day marked belonging and responsibility. In Christ, that covenant identity becomes the backbone of church life—public, accountable, and costly. Then comes consecration: priests were prepared for seven days but commissioned on the eighth. That's a picture of the church's calling to move from readiness to action—elders who shepherd, deacons who serve, members who carry one another's burdens—with preaching that is clear, doctrinal, and fearless.Worship and restoration round out the pattern. The feasts culminate in an eighth-day convocation, a solemn assembly that sends God's people forward. Purification and healing rites resolve on the eighth day as well, signaling return to community and a genuine new chapter. We connect this to church discipline and reconciliation today: real standards, real repentance, and real reinstatement. Finally, we ascend the mountain of Transfiguration “about eight days” after Jesus' promise, where the law and the prophets give way to the Father's voice: listen to the Son. That's the center we keep coming back to—Christ above celebrity, truth above comfort, holiness above hype.If you're hungry for a church that doesn't play it safe with Scripture, that treats Sunday as a launch pad rather than a finish line, this conversation will sharpen your convictions and your hope. Subscribe, share with a friend who's wrestling with church drift, and leave a review to tell us what “eighth day” renewal looks like where you are.Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!

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How does Jesus expect us to live as His people? In Christ our citizenship is in heaven and we're called to live together in a manner worthy of that calling. This Sunday Jesus shows us what that looks like: ending angry contempt with urgent reconciliation, killing unholy desires and honoring marriage, speaking plainly and keeping our word, and exercising humility and wisdom. We don't do these to earn the kingdom; we do them because the King equips us by His Spirit and calls us to walk in His ways.

In this final message of the In Christ series, Pastor Stephen Zarrilli demonstrates how the beauty of God should shape how we live as disciples of Jesus. 

Paul has spent 16 chapters outlining the grace of God in the gospel of Christ. He clearly knows that he is at the end of the letter. But then, out of left field, he gives a stern warning. At first glance, it appears to be out of place and a very puzzling way to conclude the letter. Yet for Paul, it appears there has been a concern for the Roman believers that has been lingering underneath the surface and explodes here at the end. Paul has a deep pastoral concern that false teachers might defraud them spiritually. The specific nature and teaching of these false teachers is not clear. Paul, however, does set forth some clear principles that are incredibly important for us as we seek to protect ourselves from the dangers of false teachers who might seek to defraud us of our spiritual birthright. These are incredibly practical verses for our lives and for our church. We only have two more weeks in Romans. I pray you will make every effort as we run to the finish in the study of this Romans. I hope to see you this weekend. In Christ, Pastor Chad McDonald

Introduction: Why Is Self-Promotion So Foolish (1 Corinthians 1:18–31) Because it misses the power of THE CROSS. (1 Cor 1:18–25) Because it misses the strength of a WEAK CHURCH. (1 Cor 1:26–28) Because it misses the glory of BOASTING IN CHRIST. (1 Cor 1:29–31) 1 Cor 4:7 - “What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?” Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead 1 Corinthians 1:18-31What was your big take-away from this passage / message?What is self-promotion? Where do you see self-promotion at play in this culture and in the church world?How do you struggle with exalting/promoting yourself?Why is being weak your greatest strength?What does it mean to “boast in the Lord?” List practical ways that you can boast in the Lord/promote Christ on a daily basis. BreakoutPray for one another. AUDIO TRANSCRIPT Alright, 1 Corinthians chapter 1 verses 18 through 31.1 Corinthians chapter 1 verses 18 through 31.As a teenager, I was the last of my friends to create a Facebook account.For years I held strong against the peer pressure,but do you want to know what finally led me to get a Facebook account?The desire to boast in myself and self-promote.See, back in the summer of 2009, my family and I went to Hilton Head, South Carolina for vacation.And on that vacation, we went shark fishing.And during that expedition, I caught a baby hammerhead shark.Pretty impressive, right?My one friend who was on the trip took a picture of me holding up that hammerhead shark,and I thought it looked so cool.And as soon as I got back to the condo, I fired up Facebook, I created an account,and I made that picture my profile picture.I'm not going to show that picture on the screens because I don't want to selflessly promote myself yet again,although I already see Jamie Kendrew looking up Facebook right now.And I'm sure that many of you will do the same after service,so happy hunting trying to find that picture.But I went back and looked at this cringy 16-year-old postto see how many likes and comments it received.How many likes do you think that picture got?A hundred?Wow, Jeff, you have a lot of confidence in me.Six.Talk about going viral.I think I might have missed my calling as a social media influencer.But as I was looking at this old post, I also saw the comment of my friend who took that picture.He wrote this on the post.I'm just going to point out that this picture is the only reason you even got a Facebook.You just wanted the world to know about the shark.My friend saw right through my motivations, and he knew why I created that account.Self-promotion.But I'm not the only one who has utilized social media for self-promotion, right?That's the main drive for most people who have an Instagram, a Facebook, or a TalkTix,as Pastor Jeff often calls it.On social media, you put your best foot forward.You curate an image of yourself that isn't exactly accurate or realistic,but you don't really care because that's how you want other people to view you.This past week, I did a deep dive into self-promotion,and I came across a lot of interesting content.I came across really buff dudes who lectured not so buff dudesabout the importance of being a perfect physical specimen,the art of destroying the competition and manifesting your dreams into reality.I also came across inspirational coaches who pamper with self-help talk,like, "Whenever you succeed, tell yourself, 'I'm so proud of myself.'I'm my own personal hero."I saw this one last week.I'm becoming a person that the younger version of me would have looked up to.Oh, gag. That was really hard to hear.Here's one quote that I haven't been able to stop thinking about as soon as I read it."If you don't promote yourself, nobody will."Do you want to know what I thought when I read that?That's exactly right.If you don't promote yourself, nobody will, because they are too busy promoting themselves.We live in such a me-centered society.Focus on me. Pay attention to me, because I'm so special and unique.Don't be unfair to me. Don't tell me what to do.Listen, self-promotion isn't just a problem out there.Self-promotion is a problem in here that we need to deal with.And don't think to yourself, "You know what, Pastor Taylor, you're right.There's a lot of prideful people in this room, and I'll do my part in calling them out. Don't worry."Hold on a minute. Self-promotion isn't just a problem out there.And in here, vaguely and generally, self-promotion is a problem within you that you need to deal with.Self-promotion is a problem within me that I need to deal with.This is the third week in a year-long study of 1 Corinthians, church unified and purified.Last week, Pastor Jeff challenged you to protect the unity of the church by nixing the clicksand refusing to divide over pointless preferences and particular personalities.This morning, you will be challenged to protect the unity of the churchby resisting the temptation to pridefully promote yourself and elevate your importance.Because obsessing over me hurts the we. It hurts everyone around you.And self-promotion isn't just a new problem that started with the Internet.It is an ancient problem that the Corinthians had to deal with as well.And this ancient problem can only be solved with the timeless truths of God's Word.And you cannot deal with the prideful promotion within your own heartuntil you realize how destructive and foolish it really is.So I want us to ask and answer one question this morning, just one.Why is self-promotion so foolish?Why is self-promotion so foolish?Before we seek to answer that question, let's go to the Lord and ask for His help.Please pray for me that I will faithfully proclaim God's Wordas I pray for you that you will faithfully receive it.Father, we come to you and we admit our temptation to self-glorify, to self-promote.Lord, I admit to you that I have been dealing with that this morning already.Father, I pray that we wouldn't push aside the conviction that your spirit brings,that we wouldn't think, "Oh, this sermon is for somebody else.Lord, help every single person in this room to think, 'No, this is for me.'"This is God's Word for me.And may we walk out of here different people with a different attitude and a different focus.We ask all this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.So why is self-promotion so foolish?Reason number one, because it misses the power of the cross.Because it misses the power of the cross.Last week's text ended with the cross, and this morning's passage begins with the cross.Let's read 1 Corinthians chapter 1 verse 18 together.The apostle Paul writes, "For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing,but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God."According to Paul, there are only two ways to view the cross.There are only two ways to view the news of Jesus Christ, God himself who came to suffer and die,to save anyone and everyone who believes in Him.There are only two ways to view the gospel.Foolish or powerful?Those are the only two options. There is no riding the fence.There is no middle ground.You either hear the gospel and think, "That is so dumb."Or you think, "That is so awesome."Which is your view of the cross?Foolish or powerful?Dumb or awesome?Your view of the cross isn't a minor footnote in the story of your life.Your view of the cross isn't a small aspect of your worldview.Note is the defining characteristic of who you are.Your view of the cross reveals where you stand right nowand where you will end up in eternity.If you reject the cross of Christ in this life,you will be rejected by Christ when you exit this life.But if you have embraced the cross of Christ, Paul says you are being saved.Does that sound kind of weird to you? Being saved?We usually just talk about salvation in the past tense, right?But Scripture talks about salvation in three tenses.The past, the present, and the future.If you have trusted in Christ, you have experienced salvation.You are experiencing salvation and you will experience salvation.You have been justified.You are being sanctified and you will be glorified.You were made right by the blood of Christ before the presence of God.You are being made more and more into the image of Christ.And one day you'll be fully perfect in the presence of Christ.The cross has the transformative power to change your past, your present, and your future.But you can only experience the power of the cross if you humble yourself before it.You will not experience the power of the cross if you live to promote yourself.You will not experience the power of the cross if you think you're wiser than God.You will not experience the power of the cross if you think you can save yourselfand figure out the meaning of life on your own.Paul talks about the foolishness of trusting in your own wisdom in verses 19 through 20."For it is written, 'I will destroy the wisdom of the wise,and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart.'"Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe?Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?So Paul quotes Isaiah 29 and 14 and then throws down the gauntlet to challenge all the great thinkers of his day.The philosophers, the teachers of the Old Testament law, and the polished public speakers.If Paul was speaking directly at 2025, he'd be talking about the most celebrated politicians.Enlightened spiritual gurus.And the most influential influencers on social media who get way more than six likes on their posts.Paul is saying, "You think you're so clever? Fine. Try to step up and impress God. Try to beat him in a debate."Let's see how that goes.Spoiler alert, he's going to wipe the floor with you. So who's up next to challenge him?As I read this verse this past week, I thought back to playing board games with my dad growing up.You know how some parents let you win or make a concession to, you know, go easy on you?That wasn't my dad's strategy right then.Every time you played a game, he would just demolish me in sorry, monopoly, clue.I have a different opinion, but for some reason, no loss hurt quite as bad as risk.When I was six, seven, some of you get that, some of you don't.When I was six, seven, I kept thinking that my day of victory had finally come.The day had finally arrived when I thought I was wiser than my dad. I was smarter than my dad.I would beat him at a game of risk. And time and time again, I would make a foolish move towards the end of the game.And my dad would ask the question that I could still hear in my mind right now."Son, you sure you want to do that?"And sure enough, I did. And then my dad would totally destroy my wisdom and thwart my discernment.Every single time we got out the risk board.And God does the same exact thing to everyone who opposes Him on the risk board of life.Every single time we put forth a new religion, a new philosophy, a new ideology,I just imagine God asking, "Are you sure you want to do that?"And sure enough, we do. And then sure enough, God totally destroys our wisdom and thwarts our discernment.And Paul goes into even greater detail about why and how God does this in verses 21 through 25."For since in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom,it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe.For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified,a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called,both Jews and Greeks, Christ, the power of God and the wisdom of God,for the foolishness of God is wiser than men and the weakness of God is stronger than men."It gives God great joy, great pleasure to expose the so-called wisdom of the worldby saving sinners in a seemingly foolish way, the brutal death of His Son.We lose sight of how foolish the cross would have seemed to Jews and Gentiles alike2,000 years ago because we see crosses everywhere, don't we,T-shirts, bumper stickers on church steeples.Let me ask you, when was the last time you saw someone wearing a T-shirt with the graphic of a gas chamber on it?When was the last time you saw someone wearing a lethal injection or electric chair necklace?These are serious symbols of death and capital punishment.Wearing something like that in public would be so off-putting and reprehensible, right?Well, now you understand why so many Jews and Gentiles were totally put off by the cross 2,000 years ago.Back in Jesus' day, criminals weren't put to death by a firing squad, an electric chair, lethal injection.No, the Romans would nail them to a wooden cross and leave them to ex-fixiate to death.For the unbelieving Jews, the cross was a stumbling block because a crucified Messiah was an oxymoron.It was like saying that someone is a brilliant idiot, a murderous humanitarian, or a lying truth teller.Those words don't naturally belong together in describing the same person.Under the Old Testament law, being hung on a tree was a sign of divine curse.It was a sign that you were being punished by God Himself.So to the Jews, how could the Messiah that chosen one be punished and cursed by God?That seemed insane. It was beyond belief.For the Gentiles, the philosophical Greeks, the cross was folly, from which we get our word "moronic."To them, the cross was stupid.Why would the Creator of everything lower Himself enough to die a death that was reserved for the worst criminals?But for the believing Jew, for the believing Gentile, Christ crucified isn't a stumbling block or moronic.To those who accept the divine call Christ crucified is the power of God and the wisdom of God,for the foolishness of God is wiser than men and the weakness of God is stronger than men.Your own way of thinking may seem wise to you, but I can assure you it is foolish.God's method of salvation may seem foolish, but it is infinitely wise than anything you could possibly brainstorm.Your "I got this on my own" attitude may seem strong to you, but it is nothing but worldly weakness.Christ dying on the cross may make Him seem weak, but that was the strongest act of love we could possibly imagine,totally stronger than anything you could ever hope to accomplish.The wisest one who created all things chose to hang on that cross all those years ago.The strongest one who will uphold this universe by the word of His power chose to take the full wrath of His Father.The source of life chose to lay down his own life so that you could live forever and ever.So if you have not yet trusted in Jesus Christ, your Lord and Savior, I want you to look at me and act like your life depends on what I'm about to say because it does.You do not have the power in and of yourself to please God. You don't.You do not have the power to rid yourself of the guilt and shame that you feel deep down.And you know exactly what I'm talking about, those feelings of regret and conviction that you feel.Those oppressive thoughts about your past mistakes that you can't seem to let go of.You do not have the power to erase the stain of sin off of your soul.You don't have the power to pull yourself up by your own bootstraps and save yourself.You do not have any wisdom or power of your own.For the very first time, look to the only source of heavenly wisdom and power, the cross of the Lord Jesus Christ.If you submit to Him, He will save you. He will forgive you if you ask Him to. Christ will have you if you will have Him.Why is self-promotion so foolish?Because it misses the power of the cross.Second reason, because it misses the strength of a weak church.Because it misses the strength of a weak church.Does the wording of that point seem somewhat strange to you? Does that seem disrespectful?Taylor, do you really think the church is weak?Yeah, I do. And that's its greatest strength.If you don't believe me, believe Paul because he says the same exact thing in verses 26 to 28.For consider your calling, brothers. Not many of you are wise according to worldly standards.Not many were powerful. Not many were of noble birth.But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise.God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not to bring to nothing things that are.We just saw that God shows Himself wise to the foolishness of the cross.Now we see that God shows Himself strong through the weakness of His people.Travel back in time with me to recess whenever those teams were picked for dodgeball, kickball, basketball, pick your sport.Was that nerve-wracking for any of you?And some of you are like, "No, actually it was a lot of fun. It wasn't nerve-wracking at all."That's because you were the ringers who were chosen first. Must have been nice to be you.The rest of us were in the middle of the pack or chosen dead last.Why and how are kids chosen in a pickup game of recess?There are two qualifiers, skill and popularity.The best of the best and the coolest of the cool are snatched up first.Is that how it works in the family of God?Does God jump at recruiting the best of the best and the coolest of the cool?No, it's actually the exact opposite.Paul calls the Corinthians to consider who they were and where they came from.Not many of them were Brainiac philosophers, influential leaders and rich aristocrats.No, in the eyes of the world they were stupid, worthless, obscure and poor.But none of that matters.They have been chosen last in a game of kickball, but they were chosen by God himself.And if God chooses you, you are no longer defined by who rejects you.And the pages of the Old Testament and the New Testament are filled with examples of God choosing the weak and the most unexpected.God chose Abraham to father a son and jumpstart the people of Israel when he was as good as dead as the author of Hebrews lovingly describes him.God chose Jacob over Esau, even though Jacob was a slimy liar.God chose Moses to deliver the people of Israel from slavery in Egypt even though Moses was a stuttering murderer.God chose Gideon to defeat the invading Midianites even though Gideon was hiding from the Midianites when he was called by the angel.God chose 12 ordinary men to be the followers of Christ.These men had ordinary and even hateful jobs.The apostle Paul started as a religious Pharisees who held the coats of the men who stoned Stephen.Why does God do this? Why is this God's recruiting strategy?Well, Paul tells us why in verses 27 to 28. Let's read those verses again."But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise. God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not to bring to nothing things that are."That is so counterintuitive, isn't it? That's so different than what we would do if we were God."Worldly reasoning dictates that the church should recruit the most famous athletes, the most polished politicians."Have you ever heard someone say, "Man, that person would make a great Christian?"Wouldn't everybody make a great Christian? Or, "Man, so many people would get saved if that person got saved."That view promotes human wisdom, not God's wisdom. That view promotes human strength, not God's strength.That view acts like God's up in heaven looking over his draft picks like, "Man, I made a lot of mistakes in the first few rounds.""I need some more stars to round out my roster and boost my stats."Now, God is not like you and me. God does not think like you and me.If God needed the biggest "somebodies" of this world, then He would not be somebody worthy of your devotion and worship.God wants to use "nobodies" to show that He needs nobody.God wants to use the most unexpected to bring Himself the most glory.God wants to use the weak to expose those who think they are strong apart from Christ.And I personally believe that's why the Lord called me to be a preacher of His Word and to be a pastor, because I was the most unexpected choice.As a kid, I was terrified to talk in front of people. I had a stuttering problem which I still had to deal with at some level to this day.No one looked at the teenage tailor and thought, "Man, get that guy behind a pulpit ASAP. He is so charismatic. He is so magnetic. He is a shoe-in for ministry."God chose me to be a messenger of the Word to show that all the glory belongs to Him and not to me.If God can use me for His kingdom, then He can use anybody.If God can use someone like me, I guarantee He can use someone like you.Do you feel inadequate to follow Jesus?Do you feel insufficient for the task that He has given to you?Do you feel unqualified for ministry?If you feel that way, then you are the perfect man or woman for the job. Congratulations, you are hired.Thinking that you are unqualified for ministry makes you qualified for ministry.On the other hand, believing that you are qualified for ministry makes you unqualified for ministry.If you think you are strong, you are going to depend on no one else besides yourself.If you think you are strong, I have to warn you, you are not going to like the mission and priorities of this church.We are not interested in teaching self-help nonsense. We are not interested in puffing up your ego.We are not interested in making you a self-reliant person, but we are in the business of training you to be a weak servant of Christ who recognizes your weakness.Are you willing to get on board with that mission? Are you willing to have those priorities?Stop promoting your strength. Stop trying to impress people. Begin to find comfort in your weakness.Stop putting others down so you can feel better about yourself.Stop thinking, "Well, this church can never survive without me. This church can survive without any of us."Stop thinking, "I'm the MVP on God's team." Stop thinking that your opinions and preferences are the most important.Begin to focus on the "we" instead of "me."Why is self-promotion so foolish? Because it misses the power of the cross.Because it misses the strength of a weak church. And finally, because it misses the glory of boasting in Christ.Because it misses the glory of boasting in Christ.In verses 29 through 30, Paul continues to offer another explanation for why God fills his church with weak people.Paul writes that no human being might boast in the presence of God.And because of him, because of God, you are in Christ Jesus who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.Self-promotion doesn't just hurt other people. Most importantly, self-promotion offends God.When you boast before other people, you are actually boasting before God.It's a very bad plan to brag about yourself in the presence of the most important person in all of existence.You know, boasting in yourself is kind of lame, right?Do you know what makes boasting in yourself even lame-er?Boasting about something that you didn't even earn in the first place.Imagine with me that next week I drive up in a brand new Lamborghini.I don't really know what the cool cars are now, so I said Lamborghini, alright?So just fill in the blank, whatever car you want it to be, I guess.I park the car, the door slides open, and I step out with cool sunglasses, driving gloves, a cool leather jacket.And I'm like swinging my keys around, hoping that you'll say something about my car.And as soon as you say, "Pats are Taylor, that's a nice ride."I jump on the opportunity to bask in your glory.Yep, I've won a car like this for 35 years, and it's finally mine.I mean, sure, it costs a fortune, but why not treat yourself?Why not enjoy the fruits of your labor?And then I proudly saunter away, and you come across my dad in the lobby, and you say, "Man, Taylor has such a nice new car."He must have worked so hard to be able to afford that.And my dad looks at you with shock in his eyes, and he says, "What are you talking about?I bought him that car."Doesn't that piece of information kind of change what I presented to you?Doesn't it make my ridiculous outfit and my prideful speech seem even worse to you?But why? Because you can't really boast about something that you received free of charge.And that's what Paul is saying in these verses.If you were a born-again believer, you were in Christ because of the undeserved grace of God.Period, no other reason.You did nothing to earn it.You have received all that Christ has, and you have received all of who Christ is.You have been given everything.You have received so much from Him.Listen to what Paul has to say about this in a few chapters from now in chapter 4 verse 7.What do you have that you did not receive?If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?You have received grace. You have received salvation.Why would you boast like you didn't receive it and like you earned it?Look again at chapter 1 verse 30."And because of Him, because of God, you were in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption."This first presents so many important truths that you cannot forget if you're a true Christian.You are not wise all by your lonesome.You were not born with a sense of righteousness.You cannot be sanctified, set apart, and made holy by your own efforts.You cannot redeem yourself.You could not purchase yourself from slavery to Satan, sin, and death.But according to Paul, someone came to this earth to be your source of wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.Who is that one person?Jesus Christ.In Christ, your foolish thinking has been replaced with the very wisdom of God.In Christ, your gross unrighteousness has been exchanged for Christ's perfect righteousness.In Christ, your slavery to sin has been ended so that you can belong to the kindest master imaginable.In Christ, your godly immaturity has been put aside so that you can finally pursue after godly maturity.All of these things are a gift from God, so do not take an ounce of credit for a single gift that He has given to you.So what should you do instead of taking the credit and boasting in yourself?Well, Paul makes it very simple by referencing the prophet Jeremiah in verse 31.He says, "So that as it is written, let the one who boasts, boasts in the Lord."You are to replace self-promotion with Christ's promotion.What is Christ's promotion?Christ's promotion is being on the lookout for opportunities to point every single person in your life to the person and work of the Lord Jesus.Because everyone in your life needs what Jesus has to offer Christians and non-Christians alike.Even those people you don't like very much.Christ's promotion is redirecting all the praise that you receive to Him because He alone deserves it.Christ's promotion looks like being freed from the horrible hobby of trying to fish for other people's compliments.Your meaning no longer hinges on how your boss and your coworkers evaluate your performance.Your identity no longer hangs on what your neighbor thinks about your house, your car, or your lawn.Guys in the room, nobody really cares besides you.Moms, your meaning no longer depends on what other moms think about your kids.You no longer exist to impress people.Life is no longer about you and your boasting is no longer about you.Because here's the hidden secret according to Paul and Jeremiah.You're going to boast.It's going to happen.It's not a question of will you boast.It's a question of who will you boast in.I have a nine-year-old goal retriever named Murdoch and he's still a puppy at heart.One minute he'll be sleeping on the couch and then he'll be running zoomies around the house.Do you all know what zoomies are when you explain that?When dogs run like they're in Kentucky Derby, right? Running in circles around the house.In those moments, I don't try to make Murdoch stop running zoomies because he's going to give energy out in some way.Instead, I open the front door and say, "If you're going to run zoomies, at least run them outside."That's what Paul is saying in these verses.He's saying, "If you're going to boast, boast in the Lord."My dog's crazy playing belongs in the right setting outside.Your bragging, your boasting belongs in the right setting as well.The person and work of Jesus Christ.So what's the big takeaway from this passage?What's the big takeaway from this sermon?I want you to brag as much as you possibly can.I want you to boast until you're blue in the face.I want you to promote from sun up to sun down.You've probably never heard a pastor tell you that before.But never forget this really important detail.You cannot be the focus of your promotion.You cannot be the focus of your bragging and your boasting.If you're the focus of your promotion, you'll miss the power of the cross of Christ.You'll miss the strength of being weak in Christ.You'll miss the glory of boasting in Christ.If you promote Christ and not yourself, you'll find yourself becoming more like Him.If you promote Christ and not yourself, the church will be strengthened.If you promote Christ and not yourself, you'll begin to feel that burden of being the center of existenceand stop your shoulders because you were never meant to bear that.If you promote in Christ, you'll feel stupider,but you'll be wisest in the most important way.If you promote Christ, you'll feel weaker, but you'll actually be stronger.The worship team can make their way forward.You know, boasting in the Lord all by yourself is great.You can boast in the Lord during your personal quiet time,but you know what's even better?When others join in and boast in the Lord with you.Singing as a body of believers is a biblically commanded way to boast in the Lord.As we sing, our unity is on full display in a physical and tangible way.When we sing, our voices come together to form a corporate praise.Our voices come together to promote the one who has given us all that we have.When God's people lay aside all distractions and fear of embarrassment to sing,it's made clear that we boast in Christ and not ourselves.I know what some of you are thinking, "Pastor Taylor, I don't like to sing."Well, too bad because God wants you to sing.So we're going to do that.So let's stand and sing to the one who deserves our praises.Please stand and give all of your passion to promoting God's strength,His wisdom, and His power.

Our identity isn't defined by where we've been or what we've done—it's shaped by the grace of Christ. In Luke 7, a woman with a shattered reputation pours out worship at Jesus' feet. Her past was public, but her faith was personal. Others saw her sin; Jesus saw her soul. While some scoffed, He forgave. Redemption sees no status—only surrender. And in that surrender, we find refuge. Romans 8 declares that nothing can separate us from God's love. In Christ, we're not just survivors of our circumstances—we're more than conquerors, positioned in grace and purposed for glory.

Join us this week as Mike continues our series ‘In Christ…’. Watch or listen on our website, Youtube, or your favorite podcast app! Sermon Summary: In Christ We Have… The Spirit The sermon, based on Ephesians 1:13-14, explores the Holy Spirit as an essential benefit of being “in Christ,” outlining the Spirit’s role in the […]

In a city defined by pagan gods, consumerism, and deep division, Paul laid out the foundation of Christian life: our identity is found only IN CHRIST .

Passage: Ephesians 2:19–3:13Date: October 19, 2025Overview: The church isn't built by people for God—it's built by God for His people and His purpose. In Christ, strangers become citizens, outsiders become family, and broken sinners become living stones in God's dwelling place. The church is not a building but a people—joined together by grace, filled with the Spirit, and sent to display God's glory to the world. When we forget who built us, we drift from why we exist. But when we remember that Christ is the cornerstone, we see that belonging to His church means being shaped, joined, and used by Him for something eternal.

Paul has spent 16 chapters outlining the grace of God in the gospel of Christ. He clearly knows that he is at the end of the letter. But then, out of left field, he gives a stern warning. At first glance, it appears to be out of place and a very puzzling way to conclude the letter. Yet for Paul, it appears there has been a concern for the Roman believers that has been lingering underneath the surface and explodes here at the end. Paul has a deep pastoral concern that false teachers might defraud them spiritually. The specific nature and teaching of these false teachers is not clear. Paul, however, does set forth some clear principles that are incredibly important for us as we seek to protect ourselves from the dangers of false teachers who might seek to defraud us of our spiritual birthright. These are incredibly practical verses for our lives and for our church. We only have two more weeks in Romans. I pray you will make every effort as we run to the finish in the study of this Romans. I hope to see you this weekend. In Christ, Pastor Chad McDonald

In Raised and Seated, part of the In Christ series, Tyler Lynde opens Ephesians 1:15–23 and invites you to trade frantic self-management for a truer posture in Jesus. Tyler traces Paul's breathtaking sweep: God raised Christ, God seated Him at the Father's right hand, and God gave Him as head over all things to the Church. From that foundation, Tyler shows how union with Christ reshapes identity and daily practice: if Jesus is raised and reigning, then in Him we can stand, sit, and serve from a different center.Walking through Paul's prayer, Tyler urges us to keep asking God for a fresh work of the Spirit—wisdom, revelation, enlightened hearts, real hope, responsiveness to God's call, a true sense of our rich inheritance, lived experience of God's power, and a clearer vision of Christ Himself. These are not abstract ideals but a framework for formation. When the same Spirit who raised Jesus dwells in us, repentance becomes possible, courage begins to grow, and hope stops sounding like wishful thinking.Tyler speaks honestly about anxiety, depression, and the weariness many carry. Without dismissing medical or situational factors, he calls us to anchor our perspective in Christ's supremacy. Diagnoses, divisions, and threats have names; Jesus' name is higher. Believing this doesn't minimize pain—it aligns our hearts with reality and steadies our speech, posture, and prayers.The message centers on resurrection and enthronement. Jesus rose never to die again; that matters because the Spirit who raised Him lives in believers (Romans 8:11). Jesus is seated far above every rule, authority, power, and dominion (Ephesians 1; Philippians 2), and all things are under His feet. In Him, we are seated with Christ in the heavenly places—a present spiritual reality that fuels humble confidence. From this seat we approach the throne of grace, make braver choices, and carry a quieter peace into noisy spaces.Tyler also emphasizes that Jesus is head of the Church, His living body—not a brand or product but an organism joined to its Lord. Joined to Christ, we manifest His fullness through ordinary faithfulness: mutual care, honest correction, generous service, and resilient love that make the gospel visible. If you're tired of living like you're losing when Jesus already won, this message will help you realign your mindset, renew your habits, and remember your place in His story. Watch and share with someone who needs courage today.We are Trinity Community Church in Knoxville, Tennessee.Subscribe to our Podcast & YouTube channel to find past sermons, classes, interviews, and more!Find us on Facebook & Instagram

In Christ, we're not distant admirers but intimate participants. "In Him we live and move and have our being." Our faithlessness doesn't sever this bond because He cannot deny Himself, and if you're in Christ, you're part of that unbreakable Self. This is grace unbound. It transforms doubt into assurance, brokenness into wholeness. No matter the chaos around or within, His faithfulness sustains, His presence envelops, and His grace redeems.

“For you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves.” — Malachi 4:2 On the dairy farm where I grew up, it was always fun to watch young calves when they were first released into the pasture. For a few seconds the freedom seemed to paralyze them. Taking in the bright sun and the unfamiliar sights and smells, they stood motionless. Then suddenly they would leap into the air and race around! Soon exhausted, they would stop to rest—and then do it all over again and again. About four centuries before Jesus came, Malachi prophesied about God's people living joyfully, even frolicking “like well-fed calves.” Today the kingdom grows under the watchful eye of the reigning King Jesus, and when he returns, it will be established permanently and perfectly. With “no more death or mourning or crying or pain,” we will have life to the full, and we may even frolic like young calves! With paradise regained, we will reign with Jesus in resurrected bodies for eternity. But life is often hard for us now. And growing old, as people say, is not for the faint of heart! But one day we will be released from the struggles of this life and freed to live with the Lord forever. In Christ, death has become like a doorway to eternal life with God and the promise of the new creation. Whether we are dead or alive when Jesus returns, the new creation awaits us! Father, we long for the day when we are released from our present struggles to enjoy life with you and in the new creation forever. Strengthen our faith as we begin to experience eternal joy even now, in Jesus. Amen.

Join Pastor Derek Walker from the Oxford Bible Church as he delves into the concept of spiritual rebirth, exploring Jesus' teaching in John 3, and how they relate to His first miracle of turning water into wine. Derek shares how God accomplished the rebirth of our spirit in the New Birth, and describes the nature of our New Man (our regenerated spirit). Learn about the role of the Holy Spirit in the new birth and the importance of accepting Jesus as your Saviour. This enlightening sermon is a deep dive into the Christian doctrine of being born again and how it shapes the life of believers.

Join Pastor Derek Walker from the Oxford Bible Church as he delves into the concept of spiritual rebirth, exploring Jesus' teaching in John 3, and how they relate to His first miracle of turning water into wine. Derek shares how God accomplished the rebirth of our spirit in the New Birth, and describes the nature of our New Man (our regenerated spirit). Learn about the role of the Holy Spirit in the new birth and the importance of accepting Jesus as your Saviour. This enlightening sermon is a deep dive into the Christian doctrine of being born again and how it shapes the life of believers.

God Is Breathing on Your Work—Promotion Is Coming | Blessed Morning Prayer To Start The Day With GodSUBSCRIBE to catch all the latest prayers uploaded to the Daily Effective Prayer Podcast!For more powerful daily prayers and to connect with the ministry visit:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org© Copyright DailyEffectivePrayer.com  SUPPORT THE MINISTRY: (We are listener-supported)https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/donate/ DO YOU NEED PRAYER? Send us a prayer request right now:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/prayer-request-online/ CONNECT WITH US:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/connectYouTube (1M+ SUBSCRIBERS)X / TwitterInstagram ThreadsInstagramFacebook Daily Effective Prayer™

In Christ, Heaven touches earth so that we earthlings might dwell forever in Heaven with Him.  But how can you be sure?  Peter shows the firm foundation upon which faith stands. Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley More from the hosts: Troy Neujahr  Craig Donofrio  

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)YouTube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comPhilemonIn the letter to Philemon, Paul writes on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave who has become a believer while Paul is in prison. Paul appeals to Philemon not as an apostle demanding obedience, but as a brother in Christ urging love. He asks Philemon to receive Onesimus back not merely as a slave, but as a beloved brother. Paul offers to repay any debt Onesimus owes, reminding Philemon of the spiritual debt he owes Paul. The letter models Christian forgiveness, reconciliation, and the transforming power of the gospel in relationships. Paul expresses confidence that Philemon will do even more than he asks, showing trust in his character and receiving encouragement from his actions. The letter ends with greetings from fellow believers and a blessing of grace to Philemon. Philemon challenges us to see people through the lens of the gospel. We are not defined by our past roles, failures, or status. In Christ, we are family. We must forgive as we have been forgiven. Reconciliation is not always easy, but it reflects the heart of God. We are reminded that love must lead our decisions, even when justice feels complicated. Paul models how to be a helpful advocate between others. We are invited to do the same: to stand in the gap for others, to restore relationships, and to live out the unity we claim to believe. This short letter challenges us that the gospel changes how we see others and how we respond in moments of conflict. Forgiving Father, we thank You for the astounding grace that restores and the abiding love that reconciles. Teach us to see others not by their past, but by their place in Your family. Please help us to forgive as we have been forgiven. When conflict arises, help us develop the humility to seek peace and the courage to extend grace. Show us how to love beyond obligation, and to act with compassion even when it is difficult. Let the gospel shape our relationships and heal what is broken. May our words and actions reflect the mercy You have shown us. Thought Questions: Are there any relationships in your life where God calls you to pursue reconciliation rather than remain divided? How should you proceed? Why is a mediator sometimes valuable in relationship rebuilding? Who could be useful in helping you mend a strained relationship in your life?  How must the gospel and God's grace shape how you see others, especially those who are fellow followers of Jesus Christ?

Thursday, 16 October 2025   Therefore as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age. Matthew 13:40   “Therefore, just as it is gathered, the darnel, and fire – it consumed, thus it will be in the age's consummation” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus explained who the enemy is, what the harvest signifies, and who the reapers are from His parable of the darnel. He next says, “Therefore, just as it is gathered, the darnel.”   In the parable, the darnel was gathered first. As noted previously, this cannot be speaking of the end of the church age without severe modification of the typology, something that would make no sense. This is not only true from the idea of keeping the parable comparable to actual events, but also because of who Jesus is speaking to.   Speaking about the church, something not yet understood by the disciples, would be comparable to someone today speaking about the terrible job the next administration is doing in handling the economy. The next administration is years away, and the candidates haven't even been selected.   Therefore, at the end of the age of Israel's interaction with the law, meaning the end of the tribulation, the darnel, the sons of the wicked one, will be gathered up first. From there, Jesus says, “and fire – it consumed.”   Before the wonderful millennial reign, the agents of Satan will be identified and eliminated. Like darnel, fire will consume them. Only then will the world be ready to enter into the final dispensation. To sum up this thought, Jesus says, “thus it will be in the age's consummation.”   The word aión, age, is used. This is not its first instance, but as a reminder, it speaks of various things based on the context. It signifies an era or time span. HELPS Word Studies says it is “characterized by a specific quality (type of existence)”.   In this case, it does not have to mean the end of the church age, even if that is what comes next. The type of existence that Jesus is currently speaking to (and about) is Israel under the law, not yet having received Him. It is the consummation of this age, this type of existence, that is being referred to. Keeping the boxes straight will keep students of the Bible from having actual contradictions in their biblical understanding.   Life application: In this parable, Jesus speaks of fire as the disposition of the darnel. It is rather popular for people to overlook or diminish Jesus' judgment and the resulting effects of it. Some say, contrary to several passages, that condemnation is not eternal. Rather, people are just snuffed out and done.   Others say that nobody will go to hell. Such notions would mean that the Bible is actually untrue in its statements and depictions. Rather, judgment lies ahead for all humanity. For believers, their judgment for salvation or condemnation was realized in their receiving Jesus' punishment, meted out to Him vicariously, at the cross of Calvary.   However, even believers have a judgment of fire coming. To understand that, or to refresh yourself, Paul says –   “Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13 each one's work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work, of what sort it is. 14 If anyone's work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone's work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.” 1 Corinthians 3:12-15   “Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. 11 Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences.” 2 Corinthians 5:9-11   Real judgment lies ahead for each of us. In Christ, it will be a judgment for receiving rewards or for the loss of what we could have received. How will we live our lives in Christ? The choice is up to each of us.   When we fail to live appropriately, we will suffer loss, but praise God! We will be saved. Jesus has paid the full price for our sins. Condemnation no longer hangs over us. This is one of a long list of verses that assure us of eternal salvation. Thank God for His grace. Hallelujah and amen.   Lord God, may we be faithful in our walk with You. We received Jesus' work, were saved, and at that time we were sealed with the Holy Spirit as a guarantee. May we now reflect that in our daily walk, pressing forward with Jesus as the fixation of our eyes. Amen.

Purpose, Protection, Provision—All Found in the Middle of God's Will | A Daily Effective PrayerSUBSCRIBE to catch all the latest prayers uploaded to the Daily Effective Prayer Podcast!For more powerful daily prayers and to connect with the ministry visit:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org© Copyright DailyEffectivePrayer.com  SUPPORT THE MINISTRY: (We are listener-supported)https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/donate/ DO YOU NEED PRAYER? Send us a prayer request right now:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/prayer-request-online/ CONNECT WITH US:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/connectYouTube (1M+ SUBSCRIBERS)X / TwitterInstagram ThreadsInstagramFacebook Daily Effective Prayer™

Welcome to this episode of our “Identity in the Battle” series, based on an exploration of Ephesians 6:10-13. The focus is on understanding our identity as followers of Christ and what it means to engage in spiritual warfare by putting on the full armor of God. We invite you to consider purchasing the accompanying workbook here: https://www.gospelspice.com/identity  Let's break down the main themes and lessons from this episode: Context: Our Identity and the Reality of Battle Stephanie begins by grounding us in the overall theme of the series: Identity in the Battle. She reminds listeners that Paul's letter to the Ephesians moves from teaching about who we are in Christ (chapters 1-3) to how we act because of our identity (chapters 4-6). As Paul closes his letter, he introduces the imagery of spiritual armor, summarizing the main points and equipping believers for spiritual warfare. Paul's message isn't just for specific groups—it's for everyone who claims Christ, regardless of gender, age, or role. If you are in Christ, you are called to be a warrior, not fragile china hidden away. This call is universal across the body of believers. Understanding the Battle Paul urges us to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power,” highlighting that our strength comes not from ourselves, but from being in Christ. This is not a battle for our salvation—Christ has already won that war on the cross—but a fight for our effectiveness and witness as believers. Satan cannot take our salvation, but he can undermine our impact if we're unprepared. Stephanie emphasizes that the true battle is spiritual—not against flesh and blood, but against unseen spiritual forces. Personal struggles, relationship challenges, or internal battles are surface-level; behind them is a deeper spiritual conflict. Recognizing this shifts our focus from blaming people or circumstances to standing guard against spiritual opposition. Equipping Ourselves: The Armor of God Paul uses two key actions: “put on” and “take up” the full armor of God. At salvation, we “put on” this armor permanently (sealed with the Holy Spirit), but we must also “take it up” daily, making a conscious choice to stand firm each day. The armor equips us to resist the devil's schemes, knowing the victory is assured through Christ. Stephanie illustrates that we should not wait until the enemy is upon us to prepare; the armor must be worn in readiness. Just as Roman soldiers were only as effective as their preparation, so we must be spiritually ready. Our Posture: Standing by Kneeling The repeated exhortation from Paul is to “stand.” Stephanie challenges us to see that the only way to stand against spiritual attacks is first to kneel before God in submission. Standing in the Lord's strength means a posture of dependence on Him, not self-reliance. If we kneel to God, we can stand against the enemy. If we refuse, we risk kneeling to the enemy by default. Victory and Intentional Living Finally, know that the war is already won. Satan has lost, though he fights to claim small victories day-to-day. We cannot lose our salvation, but we must fight to maintain our effectiveness. The invitation is to daily put on the armor, resist the enemy, and live out our victorious identity in Christ—standing firm in faith and ready for spiritual battle. Takeaway: As a believer, you are a spiritual warrior. Your true battle is not against people or circumstances, but against spiritual forces seeking to undermine your effectiveness. The key to standing strong is daily surrender to God, putting on His armor, and living confidently in the victory Christ has secured. ----- IDENTITY IN THE BATTLE WORKBOOK ------ You have the option to go beyond listening to this series, and to participate actively. This exclusive Gospel Spice Ministries resource is available at gospelspice.com/identity . You will receive a downloadable, printable workbook containing listening guide for each of the 6 episodes in this series, space for note taking, and discussion questions if you want to do this study with a friend! What better way to enjoy a cup of coffee with a friend this season, than to discuss your identity in the battle together? So, grab a friend or family member, or someone to mentor or be mentored by, and signup together.  Every week, Stephanie shares truth from Scripture and invites you to dig deeper in your faith to delight in the glory of God. PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the link with friends and family PAY IT FORWARD by supporting us financially PRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with! Find out more at gospelspice.com We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Bonjour! Gospel Spice exists to inspire our generation to delight in God. We do this through the podcast, online Bible studies, leadership trainings, and more. We want to serve Christ-followers who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel. We want to love God, because He first loved us. We want to experience the fullness of life with Him—and not be content with stale, boring, leftover faith. Jesus tells us that the most important thing is to love the Lord our God, so we take Him seriously. He adds that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. Now, there are many ways to do that, but I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – it is modern day slavery, and it revolts the heart of God. And so, they are our particular neighbors here at Gospel Spice. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.   Now we would love to invite you to join the team in one of three ways: 1, pray Gospel Spice forward – pray for our guests, our listeners and participants, and for us too! 2, play Gospel Spice forward by telling your friends about us, and by please leaving positive reviews and comments on your podcast listening app; and 3rd, PAY GospelSpice forward. Less than 1% of our listeners are supporting us financially. We need your help! Please pay Gospel Spice forward today. It can be a one-time donation, or a monthly one, for the amount of your choice. Your donation is fully tax-deductible in the US. Plus, once we cover our costs, a significant portion of your donation will be given back to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking, and that we vet thoroughly. So, you can know that every dime you give is used for the Kingdom of God. Every little bit helps. 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When I was estranged from my child, one of the absolute hardest parts of it was the intense guilt I felt. And until I was able to release the guilt, the attempts to reassume my role as a mother fell short. In today's episode, we're in Lesson 4 of the Release series. We're talking about estrangement guilt. The kind that replays your past like a broken record, whispering you should've done better, and that you ruined it all. In Christ, you are free to release that sense of guilt. You can embrace more peace, from a place that's more conducive to reconciling with your child. So sip your decaf tea, breathe deep and let's walk together into freedom from estrangement guilt. Let's talk about it.  . Next Steps: 1) Apply for your FREE consultation to talk to Jenny 1:1. Find out the exact path forward to feeling better and greatly increasing your chances of getting your son or daughter back in your life. And learn how estrangement coaching can get you there: www.theestrangedmomcoach.com/schedule    ⬇️ 2) Access your audio meditation to help you cast your anxieties and worries about estrangement at the feet of Jesus: https://www.theestrangedmomcoach.com/meditation   ⬇️ 3) Join the free Facebook support community for Christian estranged mothers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/christianestrangedmothers    ⬇️ 4) Download Your Free Guide Of What To Do When Your Adult Child Estranges: https://www.theestrangedmomcoach.com/child-estrangement-next-steps  . Client Reviews… ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  Jenny's teachings have produced results reconnecting me with my estranged daughter I cannot express enough gratitude for the incredible support and guidance received in the most tragic time of my life from coach Jenny Good. Her faith, compassion, understanding, dedication and display of radical love has truly been life-changing for me. I was so overwhelmed with feelings of confusion, guilt, and sadness. I felt lost and didn't know how to navigate through the emotional turmoil I was experiencing. However, from the very first call, Jenny created a safe and non-judgmental space for me to share my details. Her ability to listen attentively and empathize while helping me understand a different way of thinking is truly remarkable. She understood my feelings and offered tools each session in ways I have not experienced even from therapy. I am forever thankful for the medicine she has poured into me to be the very best version of myself! This has rippled into all areas of life for me. Jenny's teachings have produced results reconnecting me with my estranged daughter! Thank you for being the vessel of unwavering faith & love that so many of us could benefit from, estranged or not. A true Godsend.  - Melinda Wyman . ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I am living a truly happy life, and I reconciled with my son  Having a coach and mentor who is rooted in Christ is very important. I've experienced so much inner healing with Jenny as my Coach. I am living a truly happy life, and I reconciled with my son! I feel empowered to continue stepping into my full power as a mother and to live a life where my children matter, but they don't determine my worth. I am me again. - Carol Adams

If Something Or Someone Is Not From God, LET THEM GO NOW | Blessed Morning Prayer To Start The DaySUBSCRIBE to catch all the latest prayers uploaded to the Daily Effective Prayer Podcast!For more powerful daily prayers and to connect with the ministry visit:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org© Copyright DailyEffectivePrayer.com  SUPPORT THE MINISTRY: (We are listener-supported)https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/donate/ DO YOU NEED PRAYER? Send us a prayer request right now:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/prayer-request-online/ CONNECT WITH US:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/connectYouTube (1M+ SUBSCRIBERS)X / TwitterInstagram ThreadsInstagramFacebook Daily Effective Prayer™

The Enemy Can't Stop What God Called You To Do | Blessed Morning Prayer To Start Your Day With GodSUBSCRIBE to catch all the latest prayers uploaded to the Daily Effective Prayer Podcast!For more powerful daily prayers and to connect with the ministry visit:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org© Copyright DailyEffectivePrayer.com  SUPPORT THE MINISTRY: (We are listener-supported)https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/donate/ DO YOU NEED PRAYER? Send us a prayer request right now:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/prayer-request-online/ CONNECT WITH US:https://www.dailyeffectiveprayer.org/connectYouTube (1M+ SUBSCRIBERS)X / TwitterInstagram ThreadsInstagramFacebook Daily Effective Prayer™

Ephesians 4-5 Every devoted disciple must answer this question: How will I Walk? As Brian McCormack highlights the 5 times in Ephesians where Paul commands us to walk a particular way, we come face to face with a crucial truth -- to be fully free IN Christ, we must be fully submitted TO Christ. For more information about Breakaway, check out www.breakaway.org and follow us on social media @breakawaymin. If Breakaway has impacted your life and you want to generously give back, visit www.breakaway.org/give