Podcasts about in psalm

If you want to bring a smile to Jarrett’s face, ask him about his bees. He’s an “apiarist”—a beekeeper. Though our meetings in his backyard are not about bees, it’s not uncommon for “apiculture” lessons to be a stimulating part of our conversations. But even better than “bee talk” is the nature-fresh, sweet taste of the golden-colored honey produced by Jarrett’s hardworking bees. Mm, mm, good! In Psalm 119:103, the psalmist exclaims, “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” Closer examination of verses 97-104 reveals that the “sweeter than honey” comparison is just one of several phrases the writer uses to accent the supreme value of Scripture: “Your commands are always with me and make me wiser than my enemies. I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on your statutes. I have more understanding than the elders, for I obey your precepts” (vv. 98-100). The bottom line is that wholeheartedly embracing what God has revealed through the words of the Bible situates us to live well in this world. Similarly, when Jesus, the Living Word (see John 1:1-14), is experienced and valued—His followers, empowered by the Holy Spirit, are well-positioned to live in ways that honor God and serve His purposes.

Fear has a way of exposing the questions our hearts are really asking: Am I safe? Will someone hold me? Will anyone stay? In Psalm 27, David discovers a Father who answers every one of those fears with His unshakable presence. Join us as we discover the hope, security, and rest found in Jesus.Talk It Over:1. Which of these three questions do you find yourself asking most often right now? Am I safe? Will You hold me? Will You stay? Why?2. What fears tend to reveal what you believe about yourself or about God? Where are you most tempted to become your own “light” or “salvation”?3. What stood out to you about the picture of God as a Father who protects, holds, and never leaves His children? Was there a truth that challenged or encouraged you?4. David longed to be near God's presence, but through Jesus we have Christ living in us. How does that change the way we face fear this week?5. What's one situation this week where you need to remember one of these truths? I am safe. I am held. I am never abandoned.+ + + + +Hey, while you're here, please help Generation by clicking the 'Subscribe' button, then click on the BELL

What would you do differently if you knew how many days you actually had to live? In Psalm 90, Moses prays a strange prayer: teach us to number our days. Not to count down what's left, but to intentionally live with urgency, choose wisdom, and use our influence while we still have it. You don't need more years to make an impact; you need the right purpose in the years you already have. Join us this Father's Day to learn how to live out a legacy worth handing down. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daily Morning Prayer (6/22/26): from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN) Psalm 107; Job 39; Luke 6; Metrical Psalm 34:11-16, and a brief reading from the Books of Homilies11 Approach, ye piously disposed, and my instruction hear: I'll teach you the true discipline of his religious fear. 12 Let him, who length of life desires, and prosp'rous days would see, 13 From sland'ring language keep his tongue, his lips from falsehood free. 14 The crooked paths of vice decline, and virtue's ways pursue; Establish peace where 'tis begun, and where 'tis lost renew. 15 The Lord from heav'n beholds the just with favorable eyes; And, when distressed, his gracious ear is open to their cries: 16 But turns his wrathful look on those, whom mercy can't reclaim, To cut them off, and from the earth blot out their hated name.If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/

Daily Morning Prayer (6/22/26): from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN) Psalm 107; Job 39; Luke 6; Metrical Psalm 34:11-16, and a brief reading from the Books of Homilies11 Approach, ye piously disposed, and my instruction hear: I'll teach you the true discipline of his religious fear. 12 Let him, who length of life desires, and prosp'rous days would see, 13 From sland'ring language keep his tongue, his lips from falsehood free. 14 The crooked paths of vice decline, and virtue's ways pursue; Establish peace where 'tis begun, and where 'tis lost renew. 15 The Lord from heav'n beholds the just with favorable eyes; And, when distressed, his gracious ear is open to their cries: 16 But turns his wrathful look on those, whom mercy can't reclaim, To cut them off, and from the earth blot out their hated name.If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/

Daily Morning Prayer (6/22/26): from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN) Psalm 107; Job 39; Luke 6; Metrical Psalm 34:11-16, and a brief reading from the Books of Homilies11 Approach, ye piously disposed, and my instruction hear: I'll teach you the true discipline of his religious fear. 12 Let him, who length of life desires, and prosp'rous days would see, 13 From sland'ring language keep his tongue, his lips from falsehood free. 14 The crooked paths of vice decline, and virtue's ways pursue; Establish peace where 'tis begun, and where 'tis lost renew. 15 The Lord from heav'n beholds the just with favorable eyes; And, when distressed, his gracious ear is open to their cries: 16 But turns his wrathful look on those, whom mercy can't reclaim, To cut them off, and from the earth blot out their hated name.If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/

Daily Morning Prayer (6/22/26): from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN) Psalm 107; Job 39; Luke 6; Metrical Psalm 34:11-16, and a brief reading from the Books of Homilies11 Approach, ye piously disposed, and my instruction hear: I'll teach you the true discipline of his religious fear. 12 Let him, who length of life desires, and prosp'rous days would see, 13 From sland'ring language keep his tongue, his lips from falsehood free. 14 The crooked paths of vice decline, and virtue's ways pursue; Establish peace where 'tis begun, and where 'tis lost renew. 15 The Lord from heav'n beholds the just with favorable eyes; And, when distressed, his gracious ear is open to their cries: 16 But turns his wrathful look on those, whom mercy can't reclaim, To cut them off, and from the earth blot out their hated name.If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/

Psalm 75 echoes much of Hannah's song in 1 Samuel 2. There, Hannah rejoices over the birth of her son, Samuel. She praises the God who hears the cries of the humble and rules with perfect justice, themes that are all over this psalm. The difference, however, is that in 1 Samuel 2, Hannah is singing because God had already answered her prayers. She had just given her son to serve with Eli. In Psalm 75, on the other hand, we're still left standing over the ruins of the temple. God's people are still sitting in the valley of defeat. But the psalm is going to show us that even there, where hope is lost, we can rejoice in our Righteous Judge by faith, because we know who He is and how He will act. We sing by faith.

What if the way we see children needs to change? In Psalm 127, we're reminded that kids aren't interruptions, inconveniences, or distractions—they're gifts from the Lord. This week, Pastor Josh challenges us to "pass the ball" and be intentional with the children and teens God has placed in our lives, making the most of the moments we've been given this summer. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live

Life can get loud. Fear, anxiety, uncertainty, and circumstances all compete for our attention. In Psalm 121, we're reminded that our help doesn't come from the things around us, but from the God who watches over us, goes before us, and never leaves us. When life gets loud, lift your eyes higher.

Jun 21st  | Fathers day | Psalm 78:1-8In this powerful Father's Day message, Derrick Jackson opens with the remarkable story of his grandfather, a World War II veteran who landed in Normandy just days after D-Day and carried both the scars of battle and a legacy of quiet faithfulness. Through that story, Derrick draws a compelling connection to Psalm 78, where Asaph reminds God's people that every generation is responsible for passing on the stories of God's faithfulness.Why do stories matter? Because the most important stories are always one generation away from being forgotten. In Psalm 78, we discover that faith rarely dies in open rebellion—it usually dies in silence. Derrick challenges parents, grandparents, church leaders, and every believer to embrace their calling as storytellers of God's grace, mercy, provision, and salvation.This message explores three timeless truths: the stories must be heard, the stories must be told, and the stories must produce hope. Along the way, listeners are reminded that the greatest story ever told is the Gospel of Jesus Christ—the story of a Savior who lived, died, and rose again to redeem sinners and transform families for generations to come.Whether you're a parent seeking to leave a spiritual legacy, a believer who has grown silent about God's work in your life, or someone searching for hope in Christ, this message will encourage you to make sure the story survives.Do you know JESUS? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbgilmer.org/do-you-know-jesus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Need PRAYER? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbgilmer.org/pray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support through GIVING: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbbctx.org/giving⁠ 

What Worship Is Jonathan Parnell Download Psalm 100,Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!2 Serve the Lord with gladness!Come into his presence with singing!3 Know that the Lord, he is God!It is he who made us, and we are his;we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,and his courts with praise!Give thanks to him; bless his name!5 For the Lord is good;his steadfast love endures forever,and his faithfulness to all generations.Last Sunday, my family and I had the joy to worship with Kenny Ortiz and his family at Horizon City Church in Orlando. For those of you who don't know Kenny, he was a pastor here at Cities before we sent him out to Florida a few years ago to plant Horizon City. And it was so good to see him and spend a little time with him — and we had a funny moment together …Each of my kids had new backpacks they were toting around, and Kenny had the same kind — I think it's pronounced ‘Os-pree.' It's a backpack for hiking. Well, they have straps that buckle across the front, and my kids figured out right away that there's a whistle attached to the buckle. It's kind of discreet, but the kids figured it out, and so they, of course, were walking around blowing this whistle. Pastor Kenny sees this, realizes he has the same kind of backpack, with that same buckle, and that same whistle, and he says: “Hey, I never knew what that was!” And of course he starts blowing the whistle too. There was a lot of whistling going on! It was a funny moment!And Kenny made this a great moment. Because he thought it was incredible that he had this thing for so long, that was literally right under his nose, and he didn't know what it was. We've probably all been there before about something, but look, one thing I hope we never say that about is worship. This thing we do together on Sundays, and what we're called to do in all of life — we need to know what it is.Because being a worshiper is most fundamentally who we are as humans. Being a worshiper of Jesus is most fundamentally who we are as disciples of Jesus.Our worship of Jesus is the most important action we ever do as humans — so we should understand what we're doing when we worship.Psalm 100 helps us here.Today we're gonna look closely at Psalm 100, and I want to show you three truths about what worship is.The first is this:1. Worship is a declaration of our allegiance. We're gonna see this right away in verse 2, but before we get there, let me remind you about the context: Going back to Psalm 93, we're in a section of psalms all about the reign of the Lord, or the final coming of the Lord in judgment and salvation. And we established (back in Psalm 97) that what's in view here is the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. These psalms are talking about the end of the world when Jesus returns in final judgment for his enemies and salvation for his people. And our response on that day as his people, as those saved by Jesus, will be worship — it'll be praise, thanksgiving, gladness, joy, singing — all the happy words we see in these psalms. That's what we're gonna do together with all of creation. Psalm 100 is right in line with this theme we've been seeing.In Psalm 100, the reader is commanded to worship God now with seven different imperatives. I'm gonna read all of them, starting in verse 1, but follow with me and see if you can spot them:Verse 1: Make a joyful noiseVerse 2: Serve the LordCome into his presence (v. 2b)Verse 3: Know that the Lord, he is God!Verse 4: Enter his gatesGive thanks to him (v. 4b)Bless his name (v. 4c)There's no doubt this whole psalm is about worship, but I want to call special attention to verse 2, that first line: “Serve the Lord with gladness!”What does that word “serve” mean?What Does It Mean to Serve?The word for “serve” is interesting because it can literally mean to work and serve as a servant, and it can mean to worship. And in a lot of cases, it has a double sense. To worship God is to serve God, to be submitted to him, to swear allegiance to him. That's what's intended most times when this word is used in the Old Testament. And it was Israel's biggest problem. Their problem was who they served. For example, in the Book of Deuteronomy, first, God is very clear. He says, Chapter 6, verse 13:“take care lest you forget the Lord, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. It is the Lord your God you shall fear. Him you shall serve and by his name you shall swear. You shall not go after other gods …”Then he says, Chapter 8, verse 19:“And if you forget the Lord your God and go after other gods and serve them and worship them, I solemnly warn you today that you shall surely perish.”11:16,“Take care lest your heart be deceived, and you turn aside and serve other gods and worship them…”So one thing we know for sure here is that worship must mean more than an experience a few times a month on Sundays. Instead, worship is about an all-of-life allegiance, and it is a choice. It's a choice between two options: You either serve other little-g gods (bad idea), or you serve Yahweh, the one true God. Those are your choices.Those are the choices that Joshua set before the people of Israel in the Book of Joshua, Chapter 24. This is an epic scene in the Old Testament. Joshua gathered all of Israel, and he addressed all the people. He reminded them of their history and all that God has done for them from the calling of Abraham to the rescue from Egypt to the possession of the Promised Land, and he said, to all the people: “Now therefore fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord …” (v. 14) He said:“choose this day whom you will serve … But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (v. 15)It was an amazing moment. Joshua is saying, Me and my house are devoted to the one true God! My allegiance is to him — it's to Yahweh alone. That's what it means to serve the Lord, and that's what Psalm 100, verse 2 is getting at. To worship God, to serve him, is to declare your allegiance to him. It is about loyalty to our true King!A Daily ChoiceAnd we basically have that choice every morning when we wake up … Imagine, when you wake up, that Joshua says to you, personally: Hey, choose this day whom you will serve. Who's it gonna be? …And don't rush the moment . …Of course we know the right answer, but really think about it: at the end of the day if you were to assess your time and your energy, and what you give your best attention to, and what motivates you, who are you serving? Is it comfort? Reputation? Success? Power? Money? Who's it gonna be? To whom is your highest allegiance?Look, when it comes to worship, the real contrast throughout the storyline of Scripture is not worship versus non-worship, but it's who you worship: either you will serve the Lord or you will serve something else.Church, serve the Lord.And that is one reason Sundays are the best day of the week. Worship is more than a Sunday experience, but man, Sundays are important. Because on Sunday, the first day of the week, is the day that launches us into the next six days. We come together to say to God, before one another, “As for me, I will serve the Lord.”And of course we serve him with gladness. Let's not act like it's a hard choice. The way of Jesus is the only way. He alone has the words of life! We are gladly all in with Jesus. Worship is a declaration of our allegiance.2. Worship is congruent to our existence. We see this in verse 3. This is actually the center of the psalm — the center of the seven imperatives. The psalmist says, verse 3: Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.This is very straightforward. Get this: we worship God because he made us.This logic is repeated in all the great Confessions. I love how the 1689 London Confession puts it. This is Chapter 2, paragraph 2. The Confession says: God is most holy in all His counsels, in all His works, and in all His commands; to Him is due from angels and men, whatsoever worship, service, or obedience, as creatures they owe unto the Creator, and whatever He is further pleased to require of them.What it means to be a creature is that our Creator has the authority to require our worship. Because: God is God; we are not God; God made us.Resistance to CreaturelinessAnd look: the spirit of the age hates this fact. The mindset of the world, people of the world, hate the fact that they are made. They can't stand it. Because they worship the Self. We've talked about this recently: that in our sin, humans want to be their own gods. They want control over reality — even if it means murdering their pre-born children or mutilating their own bodies. They want to be gods to themselves. And the best explanation I've ever read of this is by the late theologian John Webster. He describes the essence of sin as the despising of our creatureliness. He writes:“To be a creature is to have one's being in relation to God, for ‘to be' is ‘to be in relation' to the creator, and only so to have life and to act. To be a sinner is to repudiate this relation, and so absolutely to imperil one's life by seeking to transcend creatureliness and become one's own origin and one's own end.” (Webster, Holiness, 84)The people of this world, dead in their sins, hate that they are creatures — and we know what this is like. It used to be all of us!In sin, you try to do everything you can to pretend you are not creature, you try so hard to be you're own god … but the problem is that there was a time when you did not exist. You did not exist, and then, when you did come into existence, you had nothing to do with it. That's what it means to be made.Have you ever thought about that?The Wonder of Being MadeI was thinking about this last week. We were having family dinner, and it was a beautiful moment together, it just hit me. I said: Y'all there was a time when none of us existed. …We had no existence at all. We were simply not. But then, we did exist. We do exist. We're here right now. Because we were made!And so what do we do as those who are made? We worship our Maker! It just make sense!The worship of God is congruent to the basic truth that he created us.And here are two very practical things we do with this — First is for parents, for moms and Dads (and since it's Father's Day, I mean this especially for Dads.) Here it is: 1) Teach your children that they are made. When Elizabeth was a toddler and just learning to talk, Melissa and I did a little catechism with her, and one of the first questions was, “Who made you?” Except we didn't ask that way. We would say it like this: “Elizabeth, who made you?” And she would say, “God!”And recently I asked all of my kids that question, and they all got the answer right. They all said God.And look, I know I'm not a perfect dad, and I'd never claim to be, but I feel pretty good about this one. Parents, we can all do it. Teach your children that God made them. And their eye color, and their hair color, and their skin color — it's all wonderful because God did it. And second, for all of us …2) Be amazed that God made you. It is so good to be made! It is so good that God is God; we are not; and God made us! And yes, we owe him everything — like the 1689 says, to Him is due whatsoever worship, service, or obedience he requires. But remember, the worship we owe him is not drudgery for us, but it's actually what satisfies the deepest longings of our soul. It's why we were made! It's why we exist!Psalm 100, verse 3: “It is God who made us and we are his!” Worship is congruent to our existence.3. Worship is grounded in the character of God. This is verse 5. And it's the verse that grounds everything said in verses 1–4. It's the ultimate reason why we … make a joyful noise, and serve the Lord, and come into his presence, and know that he is God, and enter his gates, and give him thanks, and bless his name.The reason we worship God is “for” — verse 5 — or because:the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.We worship God because he is worthy of worship, and his worthiness is evident in his character.That is what this verse is saying, and the grammatical construction makes that clear: Worship God because of his character — and in particular, because of his goodness.And we see this construction and this reason show up over and over again from Psalm 100 onward. Now we're gonna see this, but let me go ahead and tell you:Psalms 106 and 107 start the same way: “Oh give thanks to the Lord ... for he is good.”Psalm 117:3, “Extol him, all peoples ... for great is his steadfast love toward us.”Psalm 118:1, “Oh give thanks to the Lord ... for he is good.”Psalm 135:3 “Praise the Lord ... for the Lord is good.Psalm 136:1 “Give thanks to the Lord ... for he is good.”And then in Psalm 136 the psalmist repeats 26 times that God's steadfast love endures forever.Church, look, the Lord is good; his steadfast love really does endure forever. That's why we worship him. It's because of who he is, and who he is is good.Even in the Valley?But you might say: “Pastor, it doesn't seem that way for me right now.”Maybe you're going through a season of suffering. Maybe you've been battling discouragement and disappointment, and you feel stuck. You're just in the pit and you don't know what to do. You certainly don't ‘feel' the goodness of God where you are, and yet you hear this call to worship God for his goodness — and we just need some help here. I want you to know that even in the valley — in your valley, in your pit — God is still good, and you can worship him. In fact, your praise from the pit has a unique glory and sweetness to it that honors God more, shames the devil, and baffles the world.And I was trying to think here of some historical examples — like who are the saints in church history who have modeled this for us? There are many.But then it occurred to me: God has given us examples within our own church. The Examples God Has Given UsI think about Jen Jacobs, who died in 2022 at 38 years old. She had been diagnosed with cancer and fought hard, and I remember being at her house one day with a small group of people surrounding her, trying to bring encouragement. And Jen couldn't even open her eyes, but she wanted to sing the song “Good, Good Father.” And we did: we all sat there and sang “You're a good good Father, that's who you are!”And then I think about Kayla Rigney, our dear sister who died two years ago at 35 years old. She also battled cancer, and used to help lead worship on Sunday mornings. And one Sunday, the last Sunday she ever sang up here, she stood right there, half her hair was gone, and she led us in singing:I love You, LordFor Your mercy never failed meAnd all my days, I've been held in Your handsFrom the moment that I wake upUntil I lay my headOh, I will sing of the goodness of GodChurch, do we realize the examples God has given us? … right under our nose.And then of course I think of our dear sister Jean Swenson, who for decades was bound to a wheelchair after being paralyzed from the neck down. Jean modeled for years that we don't measure the goodness of God by our circumstances, but that our circumstances must be interpreted through the goodness of God. We start there! We start with: God is good.And because God is good, he therefore must have good purposes in hard things. Jean was an example for us of what her friend, Joni Erickson Tada, has been saying for over fifty years: “God permits what he hates to accomplish what he loves.”And that is his goodness. And church, we're gonna worship him because he's good. No matter where we are. And what God has done to prove his goodness is that he sent his only Son here. While we were sinners, when we deserved nothing but his wrath, God showed us his love in that Jesus died for us. Jesus took our sins upon himself. He suffered in our place. He defeated sin and death, and he has given us himself. We are united to him by faith. We are forgiven and free. Heaven is our home. Eternal joy is our future. Church, we can worship him now. And that's how we're gonna close. I get that there are some moments in life when we might say, about certain things, “Hey, I never knew what that was!” But Cities Church is not gonna say that about worship:Worship is a declaration of our allegiance.Worship is congruent to our existence.Worship is grounded in the character of God. And at this Table, this morning, we worship him. The TableEach week this Table directs our hearts to the cross of Christ where God's goodness displayed. If you're not a Christian, this is a moment for you to believe. Right now, wherever you are, turn from your sin and trust in Christ. Ask Jesus to save you, and he will save you. That is our story as Christians, and that is who this ritual meal is for. This is a soul-reviving cordial where we remember the goodness of God to us through the cross of Jesus Christ.Brothers and sisters, we who trust in Jesus, let us eat and drink together, and give him thanks.

In Psalm 119:163, the psalmist urges us to ask: Do I love truth and hate falsehood and want my life and beliefs to conform more and more with the truth? Or do I have some presuppositions and views that are simply non-negotiable?Music Credit: Johann Sebastian Bach, Trio from Brandenburg Concerto, No. 1, Movement 4

Is it possible to be confident that God will deliver you? Is your future secure or up in the air? Is there any hope at all as you suffer today? In Psalm 18 the righteous king leads every believer in a song of praise to God for his great faithfulness. And what it makes clear to believers is this: you can be confident in God, and God has secured your future in Christ. So yes, you can be confident of future deliverance, and by God's grace, you can love and praise him even now.

We talk about worship often in the church, but there is often confusion about what it actually means. Many of us reduce worship to singing. But singing is only one expression of something far deeper. Worship is not primarily a moment in a service, it is the orientation of a life. In fact, every human being is already a worshiper. The question is not whether we worship, but what we worship. Something will sit at the center of our lives and shape everything. And what we worship always takes control. It determines how we spend our time, where we invest our energy, what we sacrifice for, and where we place our hope. Whatever sits at the center becomes the engine that drives us or the weight that slowly crushes us. And in Psalm 63, we see what it looks like when a life is anchored in worship of the only One worthy to carry the weight of our souls. In Psalm 63, while David was in the barren wilderness, he expressed his desire to live a worship-filled life whose greatest desire was not comfort or safety, but the presence of God.

It is rather providential that on this Father's Day we find ourselves in a passage that deals with the theme of God's discipline of his children. In Psalm 30, David praises God for how he delivered him, not from enemies, but from discipline for his own sin. In this David gives thanks for how God has restored him through several redemptive reversals.God's corrective discipline is not something we often consider and it is a painful experience to be sure. However, remember that through the gospel we too have enjoyed these same redemptive reversals. Therefore, though we may not enjoy discipline, we know that our Father will turn all our sorrows to joy in Christ.As you read and prepare for tomorrow, meditate on the imagery and emotional language David uses to describe his experience. Consider your own need for correction and how you have responded in the past. Pray that we would respond as David did and that we would know the joy of the Lord's favor in a more tangible way.

Shame tells you that you've gone too far. It tells you that God is waiting for you to clean yourself up before you come back, and that the worst thing you've done is the truest thing about you. But that's not what the Bible says.In Psalm 51, King David writes one of the most honest prayers in all of Scripture, not after he had things figured out, but from the bottom of one of the worst seasons of his life. His prayer shows us how the Lord wants us to understand shame, guilt, and the character of God.

What is the grounding for our prayers? What helps our faith as we bring our supplications to the Lord? In Psalm 41 David models for us what it looks like to have our prayers anchored in specific truths that relate to our own situation.

Was erwartet Gott wirklich von seinem Volk, von seiner Gemeinde? Was braucht er denn von uns, das wir ihm geben könnten? In Psalm 50 hat David Kleinbruckner Antworten auf diese und weitere Fragen gefunden. Viel Gewinn beim Zuhören! ::: ERFAHRE MEHR ÜBER DIE FCG STEYR: https://www.fcg-steyr.at Wenn du uns unterstützen willst, findest du hier die Kontoverbindung: https://www.fcg-steyr.at/kontakt/ (hinunter scrollen) – vielen Dank!

Daily Evening Prayer (6/20/26): from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN) Psalm 104; Job 36; Galatians 4; Metrical Psalm 34:1-5, and a brief reading from the Books of Homilies6 "Behold," say they, "behold the man whom Providence relieved; "So dang'rously with foes beset, so wondrously retrieved." 7 The hosts of God encamp around the dwellings of the just; Deliv'rance he affords to all who on his succor trust. 8 O make but trial of his love, experience will decide, How blessed they are, and only they, who in his truth confide. 9 Fear him, ye saints, and you will then have nothing else to fear; Make you his service your delight, your wants shall be his care. 10 While hungry lions lack their prey, the Lord will food provide For such as put their trust in him, and see their wants supplied.If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/

Daily Evening Prayer (6/20/26): from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN) Psalm 104; Job 36; Galatians 4; Metrical Psalm 34:1-5, and a brief reading from the Books of Homilies6 "Behold," say they, "behold the man whom Providence relieved; "So dang'rously with foes beset, so wondrously retrieved." 7 The hosts of God encamp around the dwellings of the just; Deliv'rance he affords to all who on his succor trust. 8 O make but trial of his love, experience will decide, How blessed they are, and only they, who in his truth confide. 9 Fear him, ye saints, and you will then have nothing else to fear; Make you his service your delight, your wants shall be his care. 10 While hungry lions lack their prey, the Lord will food provide For such as put their trust in him, and see their wants supplied.If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/

Do you believe that some sin is too big for God to forgive? Do you wonder if someone who has sinned can be restored and renewed? Can God use them again? Can God use you again?Be comforted. There is “life after sin,” as Jill Briscoe shows us by exploring the life of David.In Psalm 51, David writes about turning around and running into the arms of the loving, merciful, compassionate God who was waiting for him, waiting to take him back. Do you need to turn and run in to the arms of God? He's waiting for you, too. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1141/29?v=20251111

Some people say their glass is half empty. Others prefer to call it half full. But, in case you didn't know, there is a third option. In Psalm twenty-three verse five, David says, “My cup runneth over.” It's a testament to the never-ending generosity of God, the Good Shepherd. And if you're a believer in Christ, David's Good Shepherd is your Good Shepherd. Stay with us now as Ron continues his teaching series, “Psalm 23 and Me: Living the Good Life with the Good Shepherd.”  

What comes into your mind when you think about God? A.W. Tozer famously argued that nothing is more important, because our understanding of God shapes the way we live. In Psalm 29, David gives us a breathtaking vision of God's power. The God who welcomes us into His presence (Psalm 27) and shepherds His people with mercy (Psalm 28) is also the sovereign King whose voice thunders with unmatched power. What we see in Psalm 29 is that God's power demands our praise and provides our peace.

How does God reveal Himself to mankind? In Psalm 19, David shows that God consistently speaks through His creation, His Word, and His people. In this episode, Jim Murrell explores the powerful message of Psalm 19, demonstrating how the heavens declare God's glory, how Scripture reveals His character, and how God's revelation transforms the lives of those who listen. Discover why God's voice has never been silent and how His unchanging revelation continues to guide believers today. Key Text: Psalm 19 Speaker: Jim Murrell Series: Psalm 19 Subscribe for more biblical teaching as we unlock the Bible one passage at a time.

Send me a Text Message!One of the ways that my stream of Christianity likes to describe our faith is with the words, "A personal relationship with God." It's not about religion, it's about relationship, a personal relationship with God. But what in the world does it mean to have a personal relationship with God? In Psalm 46:10, it starts with these words, "Be still and know that I am God."Usually when we think of the stillness, we think of quiet; a lack of distractions and in our world today, the noise is part of our problem. I'm not saying we don't need quiet. But when God says in Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God." it's a far deeper call than just "be quiet." The Hebrew word means stop striving. Literally let your arms hang down and your hands go slack. Stop fighting. Relax. Quit trying to measure up. Give up. Hands up. Let it go. And watch me be God.  That's at the heart of this message in answer to the question, "Do you know God?"

Have you ever been weighed down by trouble or felt defeated? Maybe someone mistreated you, and it's looking like justice won't prevail. Maybe you feel defeated by a persistent struggle with sin. Maybe it's just the pervasive evil in the world that seems to have the upper hand. Is there any hope or victory? In Psalm 108, David looks to the Lord. David had learned to trust God alone for victory.

Daily Evening Prayer (6/15/26): from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN) Psalm 78; Job 24-25; 2 Corinthians 12; Metrical Psalm 32:1-51 He's blessed whose sins have pardon gained, no more in judgement to appear; 2 Whose guile remission has obtained, and whose repentance is sincere. 3 While I concealed the fretting sore, my bones consumed without relief; All day did I with anguish roar, but no complaint assuaged my grief. 4 Heavy on me thy hand remained by day and night alike distressed; Till quite of vital moisture drained, like land with summer's drought oppressed. 5 No sooner I my wound disclosed, the guilt that tortured me within, But thy forgiveness interposed, and mercy's healing balm poured in.If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/

Daily Evening Prayer (6/15/26): from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN) Psalm 78; Job 24-25; 2 Corinthians 12; Metrical Psalm 32:1-51 He's blessed whose sins have pardon gained, no more in judgement to appear; 2 Whose guile remission has obtained, and whose repentance is sincere. 3 While I concealed the fretting sore, my bones consumed without relief; All day did I with anguish roar, but no complaint assuaged my grief. 4 Heavy on me thy hand remained by day and night alike distressed; Till quite of vital moisture drained, like land with summer's drought oppressed. 5 No sooner I my wound disclosed, the guilt that tortured me within, But thy forgiveness interposed, and mercy's healing balm poured in.If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/

Are you exhausted, anxious, or carrying burdens you were never meant to carry?In Psalm 23, David reveals the source of true peace. Written after a lifetime of battles, betrayal, hardship, and loss, this familiar passage is more than comforting poetry. It's a battle-tested guide for finding rest, security, and confidence in God's care.In this message, Pastor Matt Shackelford explores how Jesus, the Good Shepherd, provides for His people, walks with them through life's darkest valleys, and leads them safely home.You'll Discover: Why anxiety often grows when we try to shepherd ourselves  What it means that "The Lord is my Shepherd"  How God restores people who have fallen and can't get back up  Why the valley is often where we learn to trust God most  The difference between the absence of danger and the presence of the Shepherd  How God's goodness and mercy follow believers throughout their lives  Why Psalm 23 is ultimately a picture of the gospel No matter what valley you're facing, you do not walk through it alone. The Shepherd is with you. Scripture: Psalm 23

In Psalm 145 we hear the call of the Ekklesia is to share the Good News with all we encounter. To never let the Chain of Communication break 

In our lives, there are times and seasons where pain is real, and God seems silent. God's answer to our pain and suffering is not always a quick fix or immediate relief. In Psalm 77, Asaph is suffering greatly, and the relief for suffering seems far off. In this state, what does he do? He repeatedly, and intentionally, meditates on God, his Word, and his works. This is what we must do in all our pain and suffering.

In Psalm 17, Pastor Al Dagel has found that David's confidence in God's provision of salvation is the very same as our trust in God today.

In Psalm twenty-three verse five, King David says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” Well, you don't have to be a foodie to know that if God's making dinner, it will be the best meal you've ever had. Coming your way next, Ron moves ahead in his teaching series, “Psalm Twenty-Three and Me: Living the Good Life with The Good Shepherd.” Along the way, he'll explain what King David meant when he wrote this passage, and how it applies to you and me.  

The hymn we are studying this week is an old one (sort of). The English hymn was written by John Neale, based (roughly) on a Greek hymn by St. Joseph the Hymnographer from the 800's. In essence it is a completely new hymn but is based on the idea of St. Joseph.  The hymn we are studying this weekend is 322 in The Lutheran Hymnal: "And Wilt Thou Pardon, Lord." It does a beautiful job of presenting the Law, the Gospel and Christian Sanctification which flows from the Gospel. The hymnwriter, like the Psalmists of the Old Testament wrestle with the reality of sin and what we deserve because of them. It almost shows the incredulity of one who has been brought to know the depravity of his or her nature, that God could possibly forgive us or cleanse us from our sin. And that attitude is proper. Peter says: "For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved, Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?” (1 Peter 4:17-18). Knowing our sin, we turn to God and the work of Jesus for help. In Psalm 51 we confess with David: "Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, And cleanse me from my sin... Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Make me hear joy and gladness, That the bones You have broken may rejoice. 9  Hide Your face from my sins, And blot out all my iniquities. 10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. 11 Do not cast me away from Your presence, And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit." What joy is our when we know the salvation that is ours, and the confidence that His Spirit is at work in us! May the LORD bless your reflection on our depravity and His mercy to you this weekend.

Life is full of mountains—fear, anxiety, loss, uncertainty, and challenges that remind us of our limitations. In Psalm 121, the psalmist asks a timeless question: “Where does my help come from?” The answer is clear: our help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.In this message from our series, The Lord My Shepherd, we explore God's faithful care, protection, and presence through every season of life. Discover what it means to trust the God who never sleeps, never abandons His people, and faithfully keeps those who belong to Him.Whether you're facing a difficult situation, carrying a heavy burden, or simply need encouragement on your journey of faith, this sermon will remind you that your ultimate help is found in Jesus Christ—the One who watches over your life and leads you safely home.

Have you ever heard people talk about meditation? We wonder what sort of picture you have of that. Meditation is often seen as an individual endeavor where you sit quietly and think about things. In Psalm 1, we are encouraged to meditate on the law of God day and night. But, this doesn't mean to simply think about God's law quietly. It actually means to be drawn into action. Our thinking directly affects our actions and therefore the entirety of our lives. How does one go about meditating on God's law, and what's even meant by "God's law?" That's what this conversation is all about. We hope that pondering these words from Psalm 1 will strengthen your faith so that you will be like a fruit-bearing tree planted by streams of water with your leaves nice and strong. As always, we hope you enjoy it! 

Are you ready for an explosion of faith and hope in your life? Did you know that your actions and your faith have the power to either let God loose to bless you, or completely hinder His activities in your life? In Psalm 78:41, we see a powerful warning: the people actually limited the Holy One of Israel. God wants to pour out His promises, but He is looking for a specific heart posture. In this message, Pastor Steven Hilton ministers a powerful word that will change the way you see your daily walk with God.Notes & Scriptures for this message are available in the Notes section of the Giving Light App.Visit our website at www.givinglight.org.Download the Giving Light App available for free on iOS and Android.

Have you had news you just had to share? Maybe you called a friend or told the next person you saw! Often, news we share has to do with something we really wanted, something we were hoping for, or something really good that happened. But how often is our salvation from sin the focus of our exciting news? In Psalm 107, the psalmist calls the reader to give thanks to the Lord for His steadfast love.

Some mornings we walk through the doors carrying the weight of the world — a struggling marriage, a prodigal child, financial pressure, grief, or simply the quiet exhaustion of living in a broken world.David felt it too. In Psalm 39:2, he writes: "I was speechless and quiet; I kept silent, even from speaking good, and my pain intensified."He was weary. Silent. Surrounded by wickedness. Sound familiar?But here's the beautiful truth — David's weariness didn't have the final word. A fire grew within him (Psalm 39:3), and that fire was the Holy Spirit cutting through his pain and giving him words where he had none.And we have something even greater than David had. We live on this side of the cross. When we come to know Jesus, the Holy Spirit doesn't just come upon us — He dwells within us. Fully. Permanently.That means the fire David experienced? We carry it in full.Whatever weight we're carrying today, we don't carry it alone. Cry out to the One who hears, who sees, and who never abandons His children. 

Pastor Rob Byker joins us with a message from Psalm 104, titled “Let's Glory in Our Great God!.” In Psalm 104, David marvels at God as Creator, Sustainer and Provider. From the beauty of creation to the care God gives every living thing, the psalm reminds us that the wonders of the world point beyond themselves to the One who made them. Creation is great, but the Creator is greater still. Want to learn more about Connections Church? Visit our website: https://myconnections.church/

June 7th, 2026 Pastor Chad McDonald Life has been described as a beautiful cruise on a sea of icebergs. Life can become dangerous a very scary. In Psalm 121 the pilgrim has made the decision to go home. He has dwelt too long in Meschech (Psalm 120). He now leaves and as he begins the journey and sees the danger of the mountains ahead, he wonders, “Where will my help come from?” The answer is almost too good to be true. The God of all creation, the One who made the heavens and earth, loves him, cares for him, and will not only watch over him in the present journey but will also watch over him forever. I pray you will join us with weekend. Psalm 121 is my favorite psalm. Next week it might become Psalm 122, but today it is definitely Psalm 121! I believe that through this passage, God has a word for us all. Weekend worship is a Friday decision. Make plans today to worship with us. I know that all our weekends can quickly become full, but I don’t believe you will regret taking the time to join God’s people as we gather around the Word to worship Him and hear His voice. In Christ, Pastor Chad

In Psalm 139, David celebrates a God who knows us completely and surrounds us with His presence. Join us as Helene Rosenberg explores what it means to trust the One who goes before us and behind us, and how saying yes to the Holy Spirit opens our hearts to His guidance, comfort, and direction.Watch “Saying Yes” on The Restoration App, Facebook, & YouTube or here: https://tinyurl.com/mv46p9dr#thehappyrabbi #restorationseattle #JewishinSeattle

Daily Evening Prayer (6/3/26): from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN) Psalm 18; Job 1; 2 Corinthians 1; Hymn 324If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/

What does it mean to live with awe of God and His Word? How does a proper view of God give us courage in the face of our enemies as the church? In Psalm 119 verses 161-168, we see the awe-inspiring nature of Scripture. The Word reveals the glorious God to us who equips us to stand firm and live for His glory!

Yesterday we studied the importance of becoming strong in the Lord before we try to armor up for battle against our enemy, the devil. Again, what good is the best armor in the world if the soldier has no strength to stand? God is strong and he wants his girl strong. God is strong and he's not raising weak daughters. Remember, how do you gain this strength? By supernatural infusion! It's our CONNECTION with Jesus that allows God's strength and power to flow in and through us. Now, the next 2 verses in Ephesians 6. Verses 11 & 12, “Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” Spending time with Jesus and growing in your relationship with him through connection then makes us ready for God's armor. Piece by piece, we will put it all on. But don't miss this – you are in a battle you cannot see, but you absolutely feel. Some of the pain you're carrying didn't start with a person – it started with a battle you couldn't see. All those wounds you carry in this life of struggles, hardships, broken relationships … that's proof of the unseen battle. Hurt people hurt people – but behind a lot of hurt people is a deeper enemy who has been wounding them for a long time. The devil and his demons have created a whole lot of hurt people who are now making real messes in real life. You see that mess, but you haven't see the real battle happening creating those messes. Colossians 1:16 tells us, “God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can't see.” It's foolish for us to deny the reality of all things just because we can't see them. I'm a strong 7 on the enneagram. I avoid all things negative, all darkness and all threats. I have a tendency to stick my head in the sand and pretend everything is okay. That makes me an incredibly fun person to be around … and potentially oblivious to the true threats happening on the daily. But God has made me aware of these things through personal encounters with the miraculous as well as the darkness. I've witnessed the hand of God and I've experienced the presence of evil. I've spent over 2000 episodes of this podcast generally avoiding the topic of evil, but what good does that do you when you're in a real spiritual battle with the unseen? I've avoided talking about evil for a long time – but avoidance doesn't make it less real. Scripture doesn't just acknowledge a spiritual world – it shows us active engagement on all sides. With God and with the devil. With angels and with demons. The Bible makes it clear that there is a real interaction between us and God. God promises when we draw near to him, he will draw near to us. (James 4:8). God says, “Call to me and I will tell you great and unknown things.” (Jeremiah 33:3). God is literally working within you. (Philippians 2:13). On the contrast, the bible also makes it clear there is real interaction between us and Satan. One of Jesus disciples warns us that the “devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8). Jesus tells Peter how “Satan has demanded to have you that he might sift you like wheat.” (Luke 22:31). That's real. He's here and he's roaming this earth actively. There are also real interactions between us and angels, God's agents sent on his behalf. In Psalm we read, “He will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” (Psalm 91:11). Lot is visited by 2 angels. Abraham is visited by 3 angels. The angel Gabriel speaks to Mary. The angel Michael fights for Daniel. An angel rescues Peter from prison. Girl, you have no idea how many times God has sent help you never saw. But even so, there are interactions between us and demons. Demons are the fallen angels that chose to follow Satan in his rebellion. Many believe scriptures are describing 1/3 of the angels in Heaven became Satan's demonic warriors. Yes, fallen spiritual beings opposed to God – and therefore opposed to us, his girls. Nope, I don't like it, but it's foolish of me to pretend it's not real. How will you battle what you won't even acknowledge as real? Here's the thing about these spirit forces – God, the devil, angels and demons – they are invisible to human eyes, but look around – their fingerprints are all over our world. We see the beauty and we see the distraction. We see the miracles and we see the evil. The wounds from the spiritual battle are felt in our lives and in our families. What if it's time to stop just surviving your spiritual life – and start walking in the strength God is actually offering you? Don't you think it's time you learn how to be the warrior God created you to be, stand on his side, and join the forces of good against this evil? There's an old saying, “All that is required for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.” If we do nothing, darkness grows and consumes. Darkness grows not because it is stronger – but because light stays silent. We have a light within us that must be unveiled. DON'T HOLD BACK WHAT GOD HAS PUT WIHTIN YOU! Don't just walk by – shine your light. Don't settle for doing nothing – shine your light. Evil triumphs when God's girls do nothing about the darkness, the hurting, the suffering, and the evil around us. There was a time in my life where I did nothing about the darkness growing in my own family. I just made it look pretty on the outside and ignored the reality within. That darkness was given power because my light was silent. I played little. I don't do that anymore – how about you? Oh that God would open your eyes to see the real battle happening in the unseen places. May he make you SPIRITUALLY AWAKE AND AWARE. We've been sleeping, girls. Many of us have been spiritually dulled – distracted, overwhelmed, and constantly stimulated – while unaware of the deeper battles affecting our minds, our peace and our relationships. We've been hypnotized by our screens and lulled by TikTok. And you know what is happening … the enemy has been attacking our minds, making us depressed and anxious, making our families distant, twisting our desires to be all about our image and our imagined influence. Lord, WAKE US UP!!!!!!! In 2 Kings 6 there's a story of Elisha facing a battle where he and his soldiers are outmatched. Elisha's young servant boy was terrified at the sight of the enemy's great army with chariots and horses surrounding their city. But Elisha had such a connection with God, such an infusion of supernatural strength and power, that he knew about the UNSEEN. And this is what Elisha prays for his young servant who was afraid, “O Lord, open his eyes so that he may see.”. Then verse 17, “The LORD opened the young man's eyes, and then he looked up, he saw that the hillside around Elisha was filled with horses and chariots of fire.” The army of God was already there – Elisha just had the spiritual awareness to know it. Heaven's army was there, fighting for them. Battles in the unseen heavenly realms. What do we have to be afraid of when we understand Heaven is literally on our side when we stand with God? Oh that our eyes of faith may be opened. Dare to believe there's MORE happening all around you! Here's what you have to know, while the devil and his demons are real, they are already defeated. Jesus defeated them at the cross. But the defeated Satan and his demons are still present trying to do their damage. It's a whole lot like this story: A little girl was riding in the car with her father. She cries out, “There's a bumble bee in the car!” The father grabbed the bee, got stun in the hand, and released the bee. The little girl cries again, “There's a bumble bee in the car!” But the father answered, “No problem, I've got his stinger in my hand.” Yes, Satan roams around like a roaring lion looking to kill, steal and destroy, BUT HE HAS NO TEETH. A lion with no teeth. Your Heavenly Father took away his bite. Satan is defeated – but he is not silent. He still roars, still pressures, still intimidates. But he is a lion without authority over those who stand in Christ. But here's the problem … when we don't connect with Jesus for our infusion of supernatural strength, then put on the full armor of God for the battle, we end up being gummed to death by Satan. He just chews away at us. He can't bite, but he sure can chew. That's what he does – he just chews away at you. He discourages you and wears you out. He roars and scares you into settling for a little life. He keeps you cornered and makes you play little. Even a toothless Satan is stronger than us when we don't use our divine resources to defeat him. Every single believer and follower of Jesus is involved in spiritual warfare to some degree. Every believer is powerless in this battle unless they rely on the resources God has given them. But every believer can achieve victory over Satan if we receive strength in our connection with Jesus and then put on the full armor of God. Every piece of armor is important and every piece is effective. You may not even realize how spiritually tired you've become. May God awaken your spirit – not to fear the battle, but to finally see it clearly. Up next in our series, we will study each piece of the armor. Gear up, Sis. The battle is real … but remember, he's a toothless lion! Follow Pamela on Instagram – https://instagram.com/headmamapamela Or Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pamela.crim Find out more about BIG Life – http://biglifehq.com

Last week we learned that God has a purpose in betrayal. This week we discover something even deeper: sometimes the greatest gift God gives us in our pain isn't an explanation—it's a closer relationship with Him. In Psalm 34, David teaches us how to experience God's presence when life hurts, trust His goodness when circumstances don't make sense, and find joy even in the middle of betrayal.

Fear reaches all of us. Fear of the unknown. Fear of failure. Fear of rejection. Fear of not being enough, not having enough, or not being able to change ourselves or others. And often, fear drives unhealthy responses in our lives—anxiety, anger, insecurity, passivity, escapism, and despair. In Psalm 27, David shows us a different response. Rather than running from fear or being ruled by it, David lets fear drive him into the presence of the Lord. And because we are united to Christ, we too can face fear by drawing near to the presence of God.

Whether it be graduation, tax day, or an important holiday, human beings intuitively understand what it means to live in light of a coming date on the calendar. In Psalm 75, God declares that he has appointed a day when he will judge with equity. In this sermon, we explore how living backward from the certainty of Judgment Day sets us free to walk in humility and hope.

In Psalm 27, we explore how biblical hope is more than wishful thinking—it's a confident trust in God's faithfulness. Even in the midst of fear, suffering, and uncertainty, we can stand firm because our hope is anchored in Jesus, who has never failed and never will.