Podcasts about in psalm

Life constantly tempts us to measure contentment by what we lack—but Scripture tells a different story. This Christian devotional explores how God is more than enough, even in a culture driven by comparison, accumulation, and the constant pursuit of “more.” Rooted in Psalm 4:7, this devotion invites believers to rediscover joy, peace, and lasting satisfaction found not in possessions, but in a secure relationship with God. Highlights Contentment grows when we focus on what God provides, not what we lack God’s joy surpasses material abundance and worldly success Gratitude reshapes our perspective in seasons of comparison True security comes from God, not possessions or financial stability Spiritual blessings in Christ are eternal and unshakeable God’s promises bring peace even in uncertain circumstances When we have God, we truly have more than enough Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: More Than Enough By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading:“You have put gladness in my heart,More than when their grain and new wine abound.” (Psalm 4:7 NASB) I remember the day we were driving home from a store, and my teenage daughter was complaining to me about all that she didn’t have—a new car like the one being driven by her 16-year-old friend who just got her driver’s license, expansive homes her friends lived in with more rooms than their families needed, the latest electronic gadgets, brand-name clothing, the highest-priced handbags. Weary of constantly being reminded of what we didn’t have that her friends’ families did, I finally blew! “Do you realize what we do have?” I snapped. “You have a roof over your head, and these days, that should be enough!” Apparently, my words struck a chord with her. Her face fell, and she sadly told me of another one of her friends who was losing her home due to her parents’ job loss. Immediately, my tone softened as I realized my daughter had already been convicted by her own words. We prayed for the family that was losing their hom,e and then I silently prayed for wisdom to turn that topic into a teaching moment. “You know, Sweetie,” I told her softly, as I continued to drive, “a lot of people around us are losing their homes. That’s why it’s important for us to not only think about what we have and be grateful for it, but to focus on what we have that we will never lose.” She looked at me, puzzled, for a moment. And then she got it. We immediately began to recount all that we have that can never be taken from us: The love we have for each other in our family The memories we’ve had in our three-bedroom condo (and the small two-bedroom home we owned prior to that) The unconditional love of God (Romans 5:8) The gift of our salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9) A promised mansion in Eternity (John 14:2-3) I realized that day that my daughter is not the only one who often wishes she had more. It’s easy for me, at times, to look at what others have and be envious. It’s natural for me to sometimes wish I had a little more money to indulge in my desires. But so often I forget all I do have…and that it is more than enough. So often, we go through life looking at what others have and wondering when our ship will come in. Then we remember we have a God who owns the cattle on a thousand hills (Psalm 50:10), a God who has gone to prepare a place for us and who will come again and receive us to Himself so that where He is, we will be—forever (John 14:3). In Psalm 4, David begins his song by asking God for relief from his distress. But then he must have remembered what he had, because he finished his song with a perspective of joy: “You have put joy in my heart,More than when their grain and new wine are abundant.In peace I will both lie down and sleep,For You alone, Lord, have me dwell in safety” (verses 7-8). In The Message translation, verse 7 reads: “I have God’s more-than-enough, more joy in one ordinary day than they get in all their shopping sprees.” That sounds like a song I should be singing every day that I begin to forget my blessings and start longing for more. Intersecting Faith & Life: God is our true source of security in an insecure world…and He is the Only One who satisfies in a culture where we can never seem to get enough. When we have Him—along with His promises for provision, protection, and peace—we have “more than enough.” Can you draw strength from knowing that you have God’s more-than-enough, even if at times it doesn’t look like quite enough? Thank Him today for all that you have, as well as for the blessings that you don’t yet see. The Bible says if we belong to Christ, God has blessed us in the heavenly realm with every spiritual blessing in Christ (Ephesians 1:3). And if we “share in His sufferings” we are “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17). Joint heirs with God! Think about that. We are heirs of all that is His. Now that’s an inheritance. That’s a future. And that is more than enough. Further Reading:Ephesians 1:3-14 For a daily awareness of all you have in your relationship with Christ, see Cindi’s book, The New Loneliness Devotional: 50 Days to a Closer Connection with God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In a universe vast beyond imagination, God’s attention remains deeply personal. This Christian devotional reflects on the comforting truth that we are constantly on God’s mind and lovingly cared for by our Creator. Rooted in Psalm 8:3–4, it invites believers to marvel at God’s power while resting in His intimate, unfailing love. Highlights God is mindful of every detail of our lives His love for us is constant, personal, and unconditional We are valued not because of our achievements, but because of God’s character Living mindfully of God means staying aware of His presence each day Noticing God’s blessings builds gratitude and trust God’s love frees us from the need for others’ approval Awareness of God’s care transforms how we live and love Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: We’re on God’s MindBy: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading:“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” – Psalm 8:3-4, NIV Do you enjoy looking up at the night sky? I love to look at the moon and stars as often as I can on my evening walks, and sometimes on clear nights, I’ll even go to a park away from city lights to get a closer look at the heavens. The beauty and vastness of space are awe-inspiring! In Psalm 8:3-4, King David considers our awe-inspiring universe and wonders: Why us? Why are we, these tiny creations on a small planet, the focus of the Creator of all that? The truth, David discovered, was that we’re on God’s mind. God – the gigantically powerful Creator who has made everything and everyone and sustains it all – is mindful of us. God constantly pays close, loving attention to us. In a cosmos of unimaginable scale, every single detail of our little lives matters to God! God’s care for us isn’t based on how good we are or how important our work seems. It’s a reflection of God’s character, which is pure love. Jesus describes God’s wonderful loving care for us when he teaches us that God even knows the number of hairs on our heads (Luke 12:7) and is mindful of his whole creation, including us and even small, common creatures like sparrow birds (Matthew 10:29). This incredible reality – that we’re always on God’s mind – can inspire us to think of God, as well. After all, since our Creator is mindful of us, shouldn’t we be mindful of him? Being mindful of God simply means to live with an awareness of God’s presence. It means letting the reality of God’s presence with us shape our thoughts, feelings, and decisions throughout each day. Just as God is mindful of our needs, we can be mindful of how God is constantly meeting those needs by pouring blessings into our lives. The more we pay attention to those blessings, the more we can be inspired to thank God for them and trust God to answer our prayers for our future needs. When we’re especially busy, it’s easy to push God to the margins of our lives. Being mindful of God involves placing our relationships with God at the center of our lives and choosing to live in the awareness of God’s love from day to day. The ultimate reason we’re on God’s mind is that he loves us so completely. We can’t earn God’s love, and we can’t lose it. We have it forever, and we can just enjoy it, because God is mindful of us. When we’re mindful of God, we remind ourselves to embrace the wonderful love that our Heavenly Father offers to us, and to love him back. The distance between us and the stars is nothing compared to the closeness of a God who carefully centers his attention on us. So, let’s live today and every day with the awareness that we’re loved and cared for because we’re on God’s mind! Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider how you’re on God’s mind, reflect on these questions: When you look at the natural world (such as the sky, an ocean, or a forest), what’s one feature that inspires you with awe at God’s power, and how does that make God’s focus on you seem even more amazing? How can you change your daily routine to live with more of an intentional awareness of God’s presence with you? What was a time recently when you felt God’s mindful attention for you, such as an answered prayer, a timely piece of guidance, or encouragement? Since being on God’s mind means you’re completely loved and accepted, what’s one area of your life where you can let go of the need for other people’s approval and rely more on God’s unfailing love for you? How can you make more time in your schedule to become more mindful of God by communicating with him in prayer and meditation? Further Reading:1 Peter 5:7Isaiah 49:16Matthew 6:26Psalm 139:17-18Jeremiah 29:11 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Feeling vulnerable, exposed, or weighed down by the words of others is a universal experience. This Christian devotional explores how God provides a shield of protection around us, guarding our hearts and lifting our heads when we feel isolated or criticized. Rooted in Psalm 3:3, this devotion reminds believers that God is our ultimate protector, ever-present and actively surrounding us with favor and strength. Highlights God is our shield, lifting our heads high when we feel down His protective favor surrounds us in ways we often cannot see The Psalms describe God as a shield repeatedly, showing His faithful care We don’t need to shrink, retaliate, or be consumed by shame Leaning on God enables us to prevail, persevere, and press forward Confidence and strength come from God, not our circumstances Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Your Shield of Protection By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading: But You, Lord, are a shield around me,My glory, and the One who lifts my head. (Psalm 3:3 NASB) Have you ever received a comment, observation, or insinuation that left you feeling vulnerable or exposed? Don’t you wish at times you had a protective shield you could hide behind, or at least have in front of you to catch those piercing arrows or darts, even the unintentional ones, that leave you feeling sad or defeated? My daughter is an only child who has always been quite independent and never needy of a man in her life, and never feels alone until someone (who means well, of course) asks her if she’s “in a relationship yet.” And after they express their confidence that she’ll one day “find a husband and be happy,” she can tend to feel singled out as inadequate or incomplete, even though she’s very content with where God has her, and is not striving for a relationship. A friend of mine who is recently divorced and knows a closeness with God she hadn’t experienced while married, will suddenly feel awkward and unprotected when someone mentions her “struggle” and expresses their sympathy—or judgment—for her predicament. And a young mom I know feels isolated and alone when she faces a decision concerning her toddler that other moms might criticize or at least not agree with. When there doesn’t seem to be any right or wrong answer or anyone to walk her through the right answer for her situation, she feels inadequate and lacks confidence in either choice. Oh, how you and I need a protective shield. Something to guard our hearts from even unintentional comments that feel like arrows piercing our hearts. And oh, how our God has already provided. David sang in Psalm 3:3 (NIV): “You, LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.” Our God is a shield of protection around us and the One who lifts our heads high when we would otherwise hang them low—feeling outnumbered, outclassed, outvoted, or just left out. Because He is a shield of protection around us, He enables us to hold our heads high in God-confidence. David also sang in Psalm 5:12: “You bless the righteous person, Lord, You surround him with favor as with a shield.” That means God’s protective shield around us is also a shield of favor. Do you realize, as His child, you remain in a circle of God’s favor that protects you in ways you can’t imagine? In Psalm 139:5, David must’ve been describing God’s shielding circle around him when he sang, “You have encircled me behind and in front, and placed Your hand upon me.” God, as a protective enclosing shield, goes before us, moves alongside us, and guards our backs. David continued his description of God as a shield in Psalm 7:10 when he sang: “My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart.” God, Himself, is our shield. And in Psalm 18, David described God as a shield of refuge when he said the God who is his rock, fortress, and deliverer, is also his “shield and the horn of [his] salvation, [his] stronghold” (verses 1-2). After describing God’s mighty rescue of him, David proclaims in verse 30: “As for God, His way is blameless; the word of the Lord is refined; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.” And in verse 35, David declares his personal praise to God as his shield of support when he sings, “You protect me with your saving shield. You support me with your right hand. You have stooped to make me great.” (NCV) Intersecting Faith & Life: When someone says something to make us feel awkward, isolated, or alone, you and I don’t have to stoop down to their level for a cutting comeback or wilt inside with a sense of awkwardness, embarrassment, or shame. God has already stooped for us and toward us to be our shield and protector. In the New English Translation, the end of verse 35 reads: “You give me your protective shield; your right hand supports me. Your willingness to help enables me to prevail.” The God of this Universe is willing to help you. And just by knowing that, you and I are enabled to prevail, press forward, and persevere on the path He has placed us on. Go to the book of Psalms in your Bible and highlight every time God is described as a “shield.” I found more than a dozen descriptions of Him as a shield, and it encouraged my heart and made me feel strong and protected. Remember your shield of protection wherever you go, whatever you do, whatever you may hear. Further Reading: Psalm 84:11 Psalm 91:4 For more on connecting more closely with God, your shield, see my books, The New Loneliness and The New Loneliness Devotional. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do believers look to God and find strength from His Word during seasons of adversity? In Psalm 119, we see the sufficient power of Scripture to give guidance and transformation to us, equipping us to live for the glory of God. May we be encouraged by this reminder of the power of God's Word in the lives of God's people!

What if God has been speaking all along—and we've just forgotten how to listen?In Psalm 19, David shows us that God reveals Himself in powerful ways: through creation, through Scripture, and ultimately through the transformation of the human heart. The skies declare His glory, the Word restores the soul, and the prayer at the end of the psalm invites us into honest repentance and renewal.In this episode of the Post Sunday Podcast, we explore how God is not distant or silent, but present and speaking—calling us to slow down, listen carefully, and allow His Word to shape our lives.

It's Monday, January 19th, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Inside Southeast Asia's expanding Islamization In one part of Southeast Asia, angry mobs constantly threaten a congregation with physical violence to try to prevent the Christians from worshipping Jesus. In yet another area, a young Christian female student fends off Muslim men relentlessly pressuring her into marriage, resulting in her forced conversion to Islam. These are real-life situations that countless Christians face daily across Southeast Asia as they live in Muslim-majority nations, reports International Christian Concern. Islam has a strong presence and history in Asia, with 1.3 billion Muslims across the region and 242 million followers in Southeast Asia alone.  More than 60% of the world's Muslims live in Asia. US kills Al-Qaeda leader linked to deadly ISIS attack on US troops U.S. Central Command, known as CENTCOM, announced on Friday a deadly strike on a leader affiliated with Al-Qaeda in northeast Syria, reports The Epoch Times. The man had direct ties to an ISIS attack that killed two American service members and an interpreter on December 13, 2025, according to a Saturday CENTCOM post on X. CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper said, “The death of a terrorist operative, linked to the deaths of three Americans, demonstrates our resolve in pursuing terrorists who attack our forces. There is no safe place for those who conduct, plot, or inspire attacks on American citizens and our warfighters. We will find you.” Argentinian President Javier Milei defends unborn babies The abortion wars in Argentina are ongoing, reports LifeSiteNews.com. Javier Milei, who was elected president of Argentina in December 2023, ran on a staunchly pro-life platform. During his campaign, he promised to repeal Argentina's pro-abortion law, which passed narrowly in December 2020, and allows a mother to have her unborn baby killed up until 14 weeks of gestation. In a 2023 interview, Milei said, “It is true that women have the right to their own bodies. But the child in a woman's body is not her body. … That makes abortion a murder, enabled and aggravated by a power imbalance against a child that has no way to defend itself. … Life is a continuum with two quantum leaps – birth and death. Any interruption in the interim is murder.” In Psalm 139:13, King David told God, “For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother's womb.” To his credit, Argentinian President Milei has halted the national distribution of abortion kill pills, canceling the planned distribution of over 100,000 doses. Abortion groups claim that these barriers likely account for the drop in the Argentinian abortion rate from 107,500 in 2023 to 79,186 in 2024. Senator to leftist obstetrician: “Can men get pregnant?” In a January 14th hearing on Abortion Kill Pill safety before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, Republican Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri could not get a straight answer from Dr. Nisha Verma, a board member of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, about basic biological reality. Listen. HAWLEY: “Dr. Verma, do you think that men can get pregnant?” VERMA: “I'm not really sure what the goal of the question is.” HAWLEY: “The goal is just to establish a biological reality. You just said a moment ago that ‘science and evidence should control, not politics.' So, let's just test that proposition. Can men get pregnant?” VERMA: “I take care of people with many identities, but …” HAWLEY: “Can men get pregnant?” VERMA: “I take care of many women that can get pregnant. I do take care of people that don't identify as women that…” HAWLEY: “Can men get pregnant?” VERMA: “Again, as I'm saying …” HAWLEY: “Let me just remind you what you testified to a moment ago. ‘Science and evidence should control, not politics.' Can men get pregnant? You're a doctor.” VERMA: “I totally agree that science and evidence should guide medicine.” HAWLEY: “Do science and evidence tell us that men can get pregnant? Biological men, can they get pregnant?” VERMA: “I also think yes/no questions like this are a political tool.” HAWLEY: “No, yes/no questions are about the truth, doctor. Let's not make a mockery of this proceeding. This is about science and evidence, and I'm asking you. “The United States Supreme Court just heard arguments yesterday at great length on this question. This is not a hypothetical question. This is not theoretical. It affects real people in their real lives. And you're here as an expert, called by the other side, as an expert. You're a doctor, and you follow the science and the evidence. So, I just want to know, based on the science, can men get pregnant? That's a ‘yes or no' question. It really is, I think.” VERMA: “I think you're trying to reduce the complexity of a lot.” HAWLEY: “I'm not. It's not complex. I'm trying to get to an answer, and I'm trying to test, frankly, your veracity as a medical professional and as a scientist. Can men get pregnant?” VERMA: “I think you're also conflating male and female.” HAWLEY: “This is extraordinary. No, I'm not conflating male with female. They're two different things. There's biological men and there's biological women. And I want to know, can men get pregnant?” VERMA: “What you are talking about is biological.” HAWLEY: “I'm not going to answer my question.” VERMA: “biological males….” HAWLEY: “This isn't hard, doctor. Can men get pregnant? Yes or No?” Instead of answering Senator Hawley's very simple question, Dr. Verma continued to play games and sidestep a direct answer. VERMA: “I would be more than happy to have a conversation with you that is not coming from a place of trying to be polarized and pushing…” HAWLEY: “I'm not trying to be polarizing. I'm trying to ask. I think it is extraordinary that we are here in a hearing about science and about women. And for the record, it's women who get pregnant, not men. “Science shows that this abortion drug causes adverse health events in 11% of cases. That's 22 times greater than the FDA label, another fact you haven't acknowledged, and yet you won't even acknowledge the basic reality that biological men don't get pregnant. “There's a difference between biological men and biological women. I don't know how we can take you seriously and your claims to be a person of science, if you won't level with us on this basic issue. I thought we were past all of this, frankly.” Christian publisher Robert Wolgemuth entered Heaven at 77 And finally, the widow of the recently deceased Christian author and publisher Robert Wolgemuth, remembered by ministry leaders as a “legend in Christian publishing,” has revealed additional details about his sudden death, reports the Christian Post. Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth, the founder of Revive Our Hearts ministry, who married Wolgemuth in 2015, published a social media post last Thursday, providing additional details about her husband's final days before his death on January 10 at age 77.  She explained, “Early Christmas Eve morning, I took him to the ER, as he was in pain, struggling to breathe. He declined quickly and within a few days was totally unresponsive. On January 10, I returned to our home a widow. That same day, Robert moved to his eternal Home, to find unending joy and rest with Christ.”  Nancy added, “In the midst of tears aplenty, I rejoice in the incredible joy and gift of walking with Robert as his wife for the last ten years.” Evangelist Greg Laurie said, “Robert helped bring about the New Believer's Bible, which has literally touched millions of people around the world, as well as my book Jesus Revolution.  As Robert often said, ‘The anticipation of Heaven changes everything.' May we all live with that anticipation.” No doubt, upon admission to Heaven, Robert Wolgemuth heard the words of Matthew 25:23 from his Savior: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Monday, January 19th, in the year of our Lord 2026. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

In Psalm 40 we hear of the psalmist delighting to do the will of God. Needless to say, there's always a lot of talk about the will of God for one's life. In this teaching we wrestle with the truth of God's will simply being our daily surrender and choice of delighting to keep open, soft, and receptive hearts whatever the path before us. This is what it means to be alive to God.  What new discovery is God inviting me into here as I walk this path before me? Scripture: Psalm 40:1-8, 17

In Psalm 46, we're challenged to practice the overlooked holy habits of silence and solitude. When life is loud—busy schedules, distractions, anxiety, and nonstop noise—God calls His people to be still and know that He is God. This message shows why stillness isn't laziness, but active listening, and how quieting the noise helps us hear God's voice, regain spiritual clarity, and live faithfully in a chaotic world.

In this week's Torah portion we see the Exodus from Egypt being accomplished with miracles involved in the process. The words used for what God did were "Otot" (signs) and "Mof'téem" (marvels). In Psalm 71, the writer says, "I have become a 'marvel." ("Mo-fétt" singular of "Mof-téem.") How exactly does a *person* become a "marvel?"

In his Confessions, Augustine wrestled with how it was possible for God to be in relationship with him. How could the One who created the universe come into something as small and sinful as his heart? But he pleaded with God to make it possible, praying, “The house of my soul is narrow. Enlarge it, so that you may enter it. It’s in ruins! Repair it! It has things in it that would offend your eyes. I confess and know it. But who will cleanse it, or to whom will I cry, but to you?” Today we know Augustine as Saint Augustine, a revered philosopher and theologian. But he saw himself simply as someone transformed by the wonder of a God who wanted to know him. In Psalm 119, the psalmist is also in awe of God’s revelation of Himself, particularly through Scripture (v. 18). “You shall enlarge my heart” (v. 32 nkjv), the psalmist celebrated. It’s only because God is graciously willing to enlarge our hearts that we can joyfully walk the path He shows us (v. 45). He turns our hearts away from what is corrupt (vv. 36-37) to the “path of [His] commands,” where we find infinite “delight” (v. 35). We are small, and our hearts are fickle. But when we turn our longing hearts to God (vv. 34, 36), He guides us down the paths of joy and true freedom.

Unlocking Scripture, Pt. 2The Unfolding of God's WordPsalm 119:129–136 | King's Chapel Live StreamGod's Word is not random or disconnected. It unfolds with purpose, clarity, and hope.In Psalm 119, we are reminded that the unfolding of God's Word gives light and brings understanding. Scripture reveals not only God's truth, but God's story. From creation to restoration, from promise to fulfillment, the Bible tells one unified story of God redeeming a broken world.In this message, we trace the unfolding of God's Word through the storyline of Scripture. We see creation and fall, redemption and restoration. We watch God's promises take shape through a coming seed, a faithful prophet, a perfect priest, a promised king, and a suffering servant. All of it leads us to one central figure. Jesus Christ.Jesus is the hero of the story. He is the servant and the Son. He is the Passover Lamb. He is the prophet, priest, and king. His righteous life, atoning death, and victorious resurrection stand at the turning point of history.Scripture also points us forward. God's Word helps us understand our present reality and anchors us in the future hope that is still to come.If you want to better understand how the Bible fits together and how God's Word shapes your life today, this message invites you to see Scripture as a living story that leads us to Christ and points us toward glory.Connect with King's Chapel in Longwood, FL - ▶️ www.kingschapelfl.com▶️ https://www.facebook.com/KingsChapelfl▶️ https://www.instagram.com/kingschapelfl/For the GLORY of our Great GodFor the GOOD of our Neighborunfolding of God's Word, Psalm 119 sermon, Bible storyline teaching, King's Chapel Longwood FL, understanding Scripture, Jesus in the Bible, gospel storyline sermon, Bible overview church, unlocking Scripture series

What is true rest? In Psalm 3, we see a man who goes to sleep the night before a battle knowing full well that he's greatly outnumbered. And he sleeps. He rests.  Scientists will tell you the thing that restores the body is not the length of your sleep—it's the depth. In the same way, the Bible shows that there are all kinds of shallow ways you can get rid of tension, but none of those are the deep rest that really restores the soul. Hebrews 4 says there remains a rest for the people of God. What is it? Let's see how this passage 1) helps us understand the rest, and then 2) helps us understand how to enter the rest. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on November 5, 1989. Series: Ten Commandments 1989. Scripture: Hebrews 4:1-12. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

Introduction: John 4:23–24 - But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth. Why Should I Sing on Sundays? (Colossians 3:16) Because singing works the WORD INTO MY HEART. (Col 3:16a) Because singing encourages the HEARTS OF EVERYONE WHO HEARS ME. (Col 3:16b) Ephesians 5:19 - ...addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart... Psalm 34:3 - Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together! Psalm 107:32 - Let them extol him in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders. Psalm 100:1 - Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! Because singing voices my HEARTFELT THANKFULNESS TO GOD. (Col 3:16c) Ephesians 5:19 - ...addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart... Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead Colossians 3:16What was your big take-away from this passage / message and the entire series?What are your biggest barriers to passionately singing on Sunday mornings? How can you begin to overcome these barriers and be a more faithful worshiper?How does singing help the Word dwell in you richly?How does singing on Sundays encourage others around you? What does their singing teach you?What did Taylor mean that your greatest instrument is your heart? How is your mouth like an amplifier?BreakoutPray for one another. AUDIO TRANSCRIPT Open your Bibles to Colossians chapter 3 verse 16.Colossians chapter 3 verse 16.Have you ever gone to someone else's houseand witnessed family traditions that didn't make sense to you?You had a friend in college, I went to visit his family onceand he's a part of a family that kisses each other on the lipswhenever they say hello or goodbye.And that's not my experience at all in my family.And to be clear, I'm not judging you,that's how your family does greeting time.You are loved and we're moving on from that, okay?I also had another friend I grew up with,his family drank milk with every single meal they ate.Three meals a day, three glasses of milk a day.And they thought it was really weirdthat I didn't want to drink milk with my pizza.And I thought it was really weird that they wanted meto drink milk with my pizza.Have you ever visited a different countryand been surprised and thrown off by the customs they have?In Netherlands, the person who's throwing a birthday partycongratulates every single person in the room,not just the person having the birthday.In Japan, it is not customary to tip.If you try to leave a tip,the server will probably be very offended by that.I've talked to a lot of people who've visitedor immigrated to America,who are really thrown off that we use,how are you, not as a genuine question,but as a throwaway hello.I've been to Kenya twice,and the first time I was there, I was surprisedthat as I walked from village to village,talking to a certain man,he would hold my hand as we walked.Now guys, will we do that in America?That's never happened to me, stateside.But in Kenya, it's a sign of friendship.It's a sign that person is really listeningto what you have to say.Many traditions and customs seem to be a bit randomand mysterious.When you press people on why they carry out these traditions,they usually don't know why.They don't know the origin or rationale.I don't know, it's what we've always done.We've always had milk with our pizza.We've always eaten funyons at Thanksgiving.One tradition that doesn't really make that much sense,but I'm glad you enjoy it, Pastor Jeff.Traditions and customs can become mechanical,can become rote.If you don't know why you're doing them,it can become a mechanical processof going through the motions.And the saying can be said for Christians in the church.If you pull many professing believersas they exit a Sunday morning serviceand ask them to provide the biblical rationalefor why they did what they just did,I think you'd receive a lot of blank stares.You'd hear a lot of us and ums.You'd hear a lot of hemming and hawing.Why is that?Because they are engaging in worshipwithout thought or intention.They are going through the motions.The traditions and customs that God has laid downin His word for the family gatherings of His peoplemay seem strange.Hard to explain and a bit random.I mean, think about it.Why do we gather once a week to listen to a guy like metalk about the Bible for 30 to 45 minutes?Every few months, why do we watch people get dunked in water?At the end of this service,why will we eat a cup of bread and a thimble full of juice?Why do we do that?Why do we spend almost half of the service singing together?And that final question is particularly hardfor some Christians to answerbecause they don't like to sing on Sundays.They don't want to sing on Sundaysand they don't even know why we sing on Sundays.They don't always see the point.And maybe you were a part of the demographicthat isn't really down with singing.Maybe this biblical tradition seems odd to you.It seems mysterious.You don't know why you have to do it.So what do you do?As Pastor Jeff and Pastor Rich have said in previous sermons,you barely sing above a whisper.You tune out.You mouth the words until you're told to sit down.Or maybe you arrive intentionally lateto skip the singing portions of the service.So you slip out early to skip the final song.You just don't get singing, so you just don't sing.This is the final sermon in a series calledGod is Seeking Worshipers.In John chapter four verses 23 through 24,Jesus makes it clear what kind of worshipis God's on the lookout for.Let's listen to what Jesus has to say.He says, "But the hour is coming and is now here"when the true worshipers will worship the Father"in spirit and truth,"for the Father is seeking such people to worship Him."God is spirit and those who worship Him must worship"in spirit and truth."God is seeking those who will worship Him"in spirit and in truth."Two weeks ago, Pastor Rich dug into what it looks liketo worship God according to the truth of His word.And last week, Pastor Jeff focused on worshiping Godin spirit, you were to have passionand not cold detachment.And this morning, we're gonna focus in particularon the importance of congregational singing.Whether you can't wait to sing or you can't stand to sing,I wanna help you answer one question this morning,just one question.Why should I sing on Sundays?Why should I sing on Sundays?There are a lot of places to turn to answer this question,but there is no place that is clearer and more concisethan Colossians 3/16, just one verse.Before we continue any further,let's go to Lord and ask for His help.Please pray for me, that I'll faithfully proclaim God's wordand I will pray for you, that you will faithfully receive it.Father, we come to you and we thank youfor this most important appointment of the week.This isn't the throwaway time that we can take or leave,Lord, it is the time we come togetherto worship your holy name.Come around your word to be challenged, to be convicted,to be encouraged, to be lifted up,to be pointed to your Son, Jesus Christ.We thank you in advance for what you will doand we pray more than anythingthat you would be pleased with what we do today,that you would be worshiped in spirit and in truth.And we ask all this in Jesus' name, amen.So Colossians is a New Testament letterwritten by the Apostle Pauland it is focused on the supremacy of Christ in all things.Christ is better than anything or anyone.Life is from Him, life is through Him, and life is for Him.In chapter three of Colossians,Paul calls the Colossians to live in light of who Christ isand where He is seated.Christ is Lord and He is seated in heaven,so we are called to submit to His heavenly standards.To be able to put on new clothes,you have to take off your old clothes.Or to put on the new self, you are to put off the old self.You are to put off old, ungodly attitudes and behaviorsso you can put on new and godly behaviors.In verse 12, Paul says the Colossiansare to put on compassionate hearts.And in verse 15, he says, "Let the peace of Christrule in your hearts."Then in verse 16, our passage for today,Paul says there to have worshipful and thankful hearts.And you and I are called to have these worshipful hearts as well.Why is that?What's the result?Well, worshipful and thankful hearts bless God.It blesses others, and it will bless you as well.Now that we have that background in mind,let's answer our main question.Why should I sing on Sundays?Why should I sing on Sundays?Number one, because singing works the word into my heart.Because singing works the word into my heart.Let's read Colossians chapter 3 verse 16."Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly,teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom,singing psalms and hymns and spiritual psalmswith thankfulness in your hearts to God."Let's focus on that beginning chunk."Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly."What does that mean?It means that your copy of God's word doesn't gather duston your bedside table.The words on these pages, don't just stay on these pages.The word of God finds a place in your heart.It lives within you.Scripture digs down deep into the very core of your beingto change how you think, how you feel, how you love,how you act, and how you react.How does this happen?It happens by reading the word.It happens by studying the word, meditating upon the word.I'm packing what it means and how it applies to your life.It involves writing notes in the margins,jotting down questions, highlighting verses,becoming a student of God's word.But according to Paul, this also happens through singing.And that may surprise you because you don't see the connection just yet.How does singing work the word into your heart?How does singing cause the word of Christ to dwell in you richly?Because lyrics set to music is the most effective methodof memorization and internalization.We all know this to be the case, right?In other areas of life.How did you learn the ABCs?Through your song, right?Prove it to me.ABCD.Very good. Very good.Wow. As a kid, how did you learn the basics of anatomy?Head, shoulders, knees, and toes, knees, and toes.Head, shoulders, knees, and toes, knees, and toes.Eyes and ears and mouth and nose.Head, shoulders, knees, and toes, knees, and toes.We're all cleaning up.Clean up, clean up.Everybody everywhere.Look at you guys.Those lessons are dwelling in you richly to this day.Do you see the point?Growing up in the church, I learned a lot of important biblical factsthrough songs.If you know the song I'm going to sing, please sing it with me.Zacchaeus was a wee little man, and a wee little man was he.He climbed up the ladder in the country,the Lord he called to see, and the Savior asked him to pray.He looked up in the street, and the Lord said,"Zacchaeus, you come down, for I'm going to your house today,for I'm going to your house today."The B-I-B-L-E. Yes, that's the book for me.I stand alone on the word of God, the B-I-B-L-E.Isn't it astounding how much biblical truth can be containedin such simple and childlike songs?I sang these songs 30 years ago, and they still dwell in my heart richly.They worked the word into my heart.How arrogant we can be as adults by believing that we maturepast the need to learn and love the word of God through song.Do you feel that way right now?Do you think that the sermon is the only aspect of the Sunday servicethat teaches you something?That's just not true.Every single aspect of the service teaches you God's word.At harvest, we read the word, we preach the word, we pray the word,we see the word in baptism in the Lord's Supper, and we sing the word.All of these elements cause the word of Christ to dwell in you richly.All of these elements work the word into your heart.This is why it's important that we only sing what God's word says.And thankfully, Paul tells us what to sing in this verse.He gives us three types of songs, Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.Psalms are self-explanatory, right?He's talking about the 150 songs and prayers in the Old Testament book of Psalms.When you sing the Psalms, you're singing God's own word back to him.It's like you're speaking God's language.You're using his own divine vocabulary.And when Paul references hymns in this verse, he's not talking about the hymnsas we understand them in 2026.Remember Paul's writing about 2,000 years ago.He's not commanding us to buy old dusty hymns off eBaythat have this singing sheet and all the parts for men and women.But what is he saying?Well, back in his day, hymns were a pagan practice.Hymns were sung to a false God, a famous hero, or a military leader.These hymns were focused on a particular person.Paul is Christianizing and retrofitting this pagan practice for the church.He's saying instead of singing to that lame guy who's not as cool as you think he is,instead of singing to that bloodthirsty general,instead of singing to that false God, praise the Lord God Almighty.Praise him for who he is.Praise him for his sovereignty.Praise him for his glory.Praise him for his majesty.Praise him for his majesty.Praise God for who he is.And most likely spiritual songs were songs of personal testimony.If hymns mainly emphasize who God is,spiritual songs focus on what God has done for you,what he is doing for you, and what he will do for you in the future.Praise God that he gave you another day to worship him and to serve him.How many of us woke up today going, "Ugh, today's going to be terrible.I don't want to do this."Instead of doing that, praise him that he gave you breath in your lungs.Praise him that he has forgiven all of your sin past, present, and future.Praise him that he delivered you from the domain of darknessand has transferred you to the kingdom of his beloved Son.Praise him that he will never, ever let go of you, no matter what you do.Praise God for all the good gifts he has given to you.That is Psalms and hymns in spiritual songs.Why does Paul give us this breakdown of songs?In the past, did you ever make someone a mixtape?Did you ever burn someone a CD?Or for you teenagers who have no idea what I'm talking about?Have you ever made a playlist and shared it with someone else?Why did you do that?Because you wanted that person to experience the songs that you love.You wanted that person to get out of the rut of listening to that same kind of songover and over and over again.That's what Paul is doing here.He's giving the Colossians a godly mixtape, a CD.He's sharing a heavenly playlist with them.He wants to keep them from singing the same type of song over and over and over again.It's often said that variety is a spice of life.Variety is also the spice of worship.God wants to be worshiped by the inspired classics of the Psalms.He also wants to be worshiped as Pastor Jeff just read to us from Psalm 96 with a new song.He wants to be worshiped for who he is.But he also wants to be worshiped for what he does, what he has done, and what he will do.Singing these types of songs will keep us from only emphasizing the truth and missing spiritor only emphasizing spirit and missing the truth.Sticking to this list of songs will cause you to worship in spirit and in truthbecause both are needed to truly worship God.So much damage can be done.If the sermons we hear on Sundays get an A+ in theology,but the songs we sing receive a failing grade.Well, why is that?Because you'll remember the words you sing on Sundayfar longer than the words you hear from the pastor's mouth.If you don't believe me, have you ever been with a Christian on their deathbed?I gotta tell you, they don't invite their pastors then to repreach their favorite sermons.What do they do instead?They sing worship songs that are lodged in their brains and stuck in their hearts.As tired and as feeble as these saints feel, they belt out amazing grace in Christ alone.Crown Him with many crowns.It is well, blessed assurance.Biblically rich songs have the power to instruct your intellect.Spark your passions, engage your emotions, and involve your body.When the Word of Christ dwells in you richly, it will flow out of your mouth freely.Do you begrudgingly sing?Do you barely sing?Do you refuse to sing?If you've answered any of those questions with a yes,I want you to come to grips with what you're truly sacrificing.You are laying aside the blessing of knowing and loving the Word of Godon every single level of who you are as a person, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.You are cutting your spiritual growth off at the knees.You're saying, "I'm going to mature this far and no farther."You are cutting yourself off from a major source of the Word of Christ dwelling in you richly.Of the Word being worked into your heart.You are hurting yourself.But the damage doesn't just end with you.If you have a negative view of singing, you will negatively affect others around you.But in Colossians 3, 16, Paul shows us the opposite as well.If you have a positive view of singing, you will positively affect others around you.Let's read verse 16 for a second time."Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom,singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God."Why should I sing on Sundays?Second reason, because singing encourages the hearts of everyone who hears me.Because singing encourages the hearts of everyone who hears me.Paul says that we as a church should be teaching and admonishing who?One another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.He shares an almost identical truth in Ephesians 519.He says the believer should be addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.Pastor Rich and Pastor Jeff have made it clear over the past few weeks that the primary audienceof our worship is who?God, first and foremost, our worship is for and before the Lord.Again, He is the primary audience.But according to Paul, there is a secondary audience of our singing.And who is that secondary audience?One another.Every single person in this room, that person in front of you, those people behind you,those people next to you.To be clear, you're not worshiping other people as you sing.You are only worshiping God, but you are instructing and teaching others as you sing.The goal isn't to impress, the goal is to instruct.By singing, you are reinforcing the glorious truths of God's Word.By singing, you are warning, admonishing others to avoid the consequences of disobeying God's Word.You are playing an important role of the working of the Word into their hearts.You are playing an important role of the Word of Christ dwelling in their hearts, richly.Do you understand that Sunday morning is not your private worship time with God?Yes, it is personal, but it's by no means private.You are commanded to have your private worship time with God throughout the week.As you read the Bible, as you pray, as you fast,Sunday morning is the corporate worship time of God's people.It's not just about you and Jesus, it's about us and Jesus.Why is it so important that we gather together and we sing together?Why do we do that?Well, one pastor puts it this way.The people of God sing together because they have been saved together.And we see this truth in the book of Exodus.In Exodus 12 and 13, the Israelites are let go from slavery in Egypt.They're guided by the very presence of God.But then what happens?Pharaoh changed his mind to the armies of Egypt.Go after the Israelites.But God rescues them.He makes the Red Sea's part.He takes them through the water.Then those waters drown the Egyptian army.The Israelites are saved together by God.How do they respond to being saved together?According to Exodus 15, they sing together.Their voices become one communal voice to their God and their Savior.And we see this in the Psalms.There is a ton of "I," "me," "my," and "my" language in the Psalms.But there are 346 appearances of "we," "our," "us," as well.Again, it's not just private.It's corporate.In Psalm 343, David gives this command,"O magnify the Lord with me.Let us exalt his name together."Psalm 107.32."Let them extol him in the congregation of the people,and praise him in the assembly of the elders."Paul commands the Colossians and the Ephesiansto sing to the Lord together because they have been savedby the blood of Jesus Christ together.You and I are commanded to sing together because we have been savedby the blood of Jesus Christ together.You were not rescued and redeemed from your sinto be your own spiritual island by yourself.You were rescued and redeemed to be a part of the holy people of God,to be adopted into the family of God.You are not an only child.You have a countless number of brothers and sisters across this globeand throughout human history.But let's focus on our church for a minute.If you are a member at harvest,you have committed yourself to the holiness and maturityof the brothers and sisters you have in this roomand in the other service.By becoming a member,you have acknowledged that your faithful attendance,your active participation contributes to the unity and purity of this church.You have chosen to link arms with these peopleand marched through this evil world towards heaven together.You have agreed that I'm going to build up and encourage these peoplebecause they are my family.Do you realize that this service isn't just something you can slip in and slip out of?This is your family.This is a family gathering and you are here to encourage others,not just to be encouraged yourself.So how do you encourage others around you?You sing with passionate enthusiasm.You cannot teach and admonish other people around you with their singingif other people around you cannot hear your singing.You know what this means?This means that you do not have the biblical right to opt out of singing.You do not have God's permission to mumble or mouth the words you see on the screens.You are not given a hall pass from God to come late or to leave early.You are not allowed to be a conscientious objector during the worship set.I know exactly what some of you are thinking right now.I know you are internally sweating and thinking,"Pastor Taylor, you just don't get it.I have a horrible singing voice and I don't want anybody to hear me."Does God expect you to be a trained musician or a world-class vocalist to sing?I sure hope not because you all just heard my voice a few minutes agoand I fall way short of that standard.Does God command you to sing well in Scripture?He calls you to sing, period.Psalm 100 verse 1, "Make a joyful noise to the Lord all the earth."Can your mouth make noise?Make noise to your mouth by saying yes.Can your mouth make noise?Can you make that noise sound joyful?Even better than you are the perfect person to sing to the Lordto encourage other people in this room with your singing.All of you are not expected to stand on stage and lead the worship time,but you are expected to instruct others during the worship timeas you sing from where you stand.How many of you watched Elf last month before Christmas?Very few of you.Wow, okay, this may be harder for you than I thought.What is Buddy the Elf's singing advice for Christmas?The best way to spread Christmas cheer is..."Lose your mouth for all of the years."I'm going to steal that quote and use it for corporate worship.The best way to spread Christian cheer is..."Lose your mouth for all of the years."I read a study recently that laid out two markers of a healthy church.They're obviously way more than just two,but these two were the focus of the study.The first one was children.Children are being born.Children are being discipled.That discipleship is being reinforced in the life of the church,as Pastor Jeff often says, "Children are a sign of life."How are we doing with that first marker here at Harvest?If you're wondering, just count how many kids almost knock you over after the service is over.Here's the second mark.The second mark is "Men who sing."How are we doing with that one?I got to tell you, not as well as the first.I know what some of you might be thinking."Taylor, singing on Sundays just seems a little feminine.It doesn't seem very masculine to me."That's interesting.You didn't seem to have that same objectionwhen you were singing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game"at the pirate game this past summer.So let me understand this.It's masculine to sing about going to a baseball game,but it's feminine to sing to the Lord God Almighty.You didn't seem to have that same objectionwhen you were singing in the shower this morning,or singing in the car the way to work last week.You didn't seem to have this objectionwhen you were singing at the top of your lungswhen you saw your favorite band in concert.So let me get it straight.All those things are masculine,but singing to Jesus Christ,who laid down his own life to save yours, that's feminine.Do you see how ridiculous that objection iswhen you really think about it?Moses sang, "Are you more masculine than Moses?When was the last time you were used by Godto defeat the mightiest army on the planetand to lead a bunch of complaining people to the wilderness?"David sang to the Lord and even danced to himas we saw last week."Are you more masculine than David?You were killed a giantor ruled over God's chosen nation?Jesus sang in the Gospels.Are you more masculine than Jesus?Your entire life cannot compare to one secondof the masculinity Jesus displayedduring his time on this earth."Men, please stop making excuses for why you can't sing.Sing for the sake of your wife.Sing for the sake of your kids.Sing for the sake of the church.Your silence is deafening and destructive.Harvest, we should be teaching and admonishing one anotherand all wisdom by singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.We should be instructing and encouraging one anotherby how we sing.This starts at an individual leveland it has corporate ramifications.You have no idea how big of an impactyour singing has on the people around you.And you have no idea how much their singinghas an impact on you.Imagine that there is a woman in the seat in front of youwho is fighting a losing battle with a serious illness.Yet every single Sunday she is worshiping the Lordwith hands lifted high.Does that teach you something?That teaches you that God is worthy of your praiseeven when your physical strength is being sapped from your body.Imagine that there is a dad down the aisle from youwho just lost his son.Yet he is still worshiping the Lord with tears in his eyesand sorrow in his heart.Doesn't that teach you something?That teaches you that the Lord gives and the Lord takes away.Blessed be the name of the Lord.That group of teenagers in the intersectionis rejecting the worldly desire to look coolby worshiping God with reckless abandon.Doesn't that teach you something?That teaches you that age doesn't always equal maturityand they can set you an example to follow.Please sing.Sing to encourage your own heartbut also sing to encourage the hearts of other people around you.Why should I sing on Sundays?Final reason.Because singing voices my heart felt thankfulness to God.Because singing voices my heart felt thankfulness to God.Singing blesses you.Singing blesses others.But most importantly, singing blesses God.Let's read verse 16 and a third and final time.Let the word of Christ dwell in you richlyteaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom.Singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songswith thankfulness in your hearts to God.Once again, Paul shares a very similar truth in Ephesians 519.He says that you should sing and address other Christians in songwhile making melody to the Lord with your heart.You realize that your mouth isn't your primary instrument of praise.It's your heart.Your heart is where everything starts.Your heart is where your passions live.Your heart is where your emotions reside.What is in your heart will come out of your mouth.Your heart is like a guitar or a keyboard.While your mouth is a speaker.Your mouth amplifies what is inside.Your mouth amplifies what is in your heart.If your heart is full of negativity and complaining,what will come out of your mouth?Negativity and complaining.If your heart is full of love and praise to the Lord,what will be amplified by your mouth?Love and praise to the Lord.You were made to worship God.And God has revealed that he loves to be sung to.And if you refuse to sing to him,you were refusing to give him the love and thanks that he deserves.At this point, you may be waving the white flag.Okay, Taylor, I get it.I get it.You and other pastors can stop selling me.These sermons have convinced me.I just sing a little bit louder.Fine, I guess I'll sing.Is that honoring to the Lord?You know, my wife has revealed to me that she loves flowers.And she feels loved by me whenever I give her flowers.But imagine that she loves flowers.But imagine I come home after service with a frown on my faceand shove some flowers in her arms and say, "There you go.Will you stop bugging me about the stupid flowers?I did what you wanted.You're not getting more until your birthday.Hope you enjoy it."Would my wife feel very loved by that?I shouldn't buy my wife flowers because I have to.I should buy my wife flowers because I love her and I want to.And the same way, singing to the Lord shouldn't be viewed as something you have to do.It should be viewed as something you want to do.It should be your greatest joy to verbally and physically express the love you feel for him on the inside.And if that's not how you feel, there's a problem going on that you should address.The worship team can make their way forward.God is seeking worshipers.God is seeking those who will worship him in truth.God is seeking those who will worship him in spirit.God is seeking those who will worship him in song.How do you feel about this job description?How do you feel about being a full-time worshiper of God?Some of you in this room are not a worshiper of God.You have not yet trusted in Christ.You are worshiping yourself.You are living for yourself.Let me ask you something.How is that working out for you?I'm guessing not very well.You may think you're happy.You may act happy, but you know something is missing.You know something is wrong.You know there is someone far greater than you who deserves the glory and honor that you're hogging for yourself.This person is God who reveals himself most clearly to the person and work of his Son.Jesus came to this earth to serve sinners.Choose to serve him for all of eternity.Jesus humbled himself by dying on the cross to pay the penalty for sin,even though he was and still is fully perfect and sinless.Choose to exalt him forever and ever.Jesus will not turn you away if you come to him with genuine faith and repentance.Choose to believe in him.Stop believing in yourself.Choose to worship him.Stop worshiping yourself.The role of a full-time worshiper is being offered to you.Accept that job offer.Others of you have accepted that job offer in the past,but you haven't been carrying out your responsibilities lately.Maybe you've been making excuses for why you can't sing.Maybe you've been distracted by a million other things you sit in this service and you're not focusing on Jesus Christ.Maybe you're not truly singing with passionate enthusiasm.If you're honest, you would say, "I've been lazy in my worship."If that's true, let me give you one final exhortation.If Jesus Christ rose from the dead on a Sunday morning, 2000 years ago,you can get up bright and early every Sunday to worship his holy namewith every ounce of energy and passion that you have.It's not too late.You can do it right now.You can do it today.Others of you have been faithful and you've been consistent in your worship.Obviously, it's not perfect, but you have been consistent.If that's you, keep it up.Keep up the good work.Do not waver in the job that God has saved you to carry out.We spend a lot of time talking about singing.Let's actually stand.Let's actually sing.Stand and do what you are made to do.Do what you are saved to do.Do what you should want to do.Let's sing to the Lord.

Waiting on God’s answers can stretch our faith, especially when prayers feel unheard or delayed. Drawing from Matthew 7:7–8, this devotional reframes waiting as part of God’s process—assuring us that He hears every prayer and faithfully responds, even when His answers are still unfolding. Highlights God hears every prayer, even when the answer doesn’t come immediately. Delayed answers don’t mean ignored prayers—sometimes they’re simply “in the queue.” Jesus’ words in Matthew 7 remind us to keep asking, seeking, and knocking. Waiting requires trust in God’s timing, not doubt in His goodness. Scripture repeatedly affirms God’s faithfulness and unchanging character. God’s track record throughout the Bible proves He keeps His promises. A loving Father gives good gifts, even when the wait feels long. Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: My Prayer Is Still in the Queue By Lauren Fletcher Bible Reading: “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” - Matthew 7:7-8 Something I’ve been learning is the importance of patience in prayer. Often, I expect and hope God to answer right away. I’ll be praying so desperately, hoping to hear His response. When I don’t hear anything, I wonder, God, are You answering my prayer? This happened recently when I was praying for something. What God revealed to me is that He was answering my prayer, but it was still in the queue. Do you remember the days of downloading music? If you downloaded multiple things at once, the computer would download about three, and all the others were in the queue, waiting to be downloaded. I remember how impatient I would feel, eager to listen to these songs. It was a wait. Eventually, though, I would be able to play them. In this illustration, God helped me to understand that sometimes, my prayers are in the queue. God has heard them, He has answered them, but I have to wait for a little while for those answers. They are in the works. Matthew 7:7-8 encourages me that God not only listens to my prayers but answers them. He says that “everyone who asks, receives” (emphasis added). So, when I pray, He responds. Intersecting Faith & Life: What do we do when we are desperate to hear from God? According to this passage in Matthew, we keep praying. We continually seek His help and look for Him. He tells us that He will answer. So, what do we do when our prayers are in the queue? We must learn to patiently wait. We must trust in God as we wait. Scriptures like Psalm 34 and 40 comfort me when I am desperate to hear from the Lord. In Psalm 34, it says, “In my desperation I prayed, and the LORD listened; he saved me from all my troubles” (Psalm 34:6). David says in Psalm 40:1, “I waited patiently for the LORD to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry.” It goes on to tell of how the Lord helped David and was faithful to him. When we are in need of God’s help and cry out to Him, He will not fail us. We can trust in Him. When we are waiting on God, in that challenging space, how do we know God is trustworthy? We know we can trust God because of His track record and also because of His Word. In the Bible, there are many stories of God’s faithfulness to His people. His Word also tells us of His character: “…And you have done what you promised, for you are always true to your word” (Nehemiah 9:8b). In Psalms, it says, “For the word of the LORD holds true, and we can trust everything he does. He loves whatever is just and good; the unfailing love of the LORD fills the earth” (Psalm 33:4-5). God is so good. Following the passage about asking, seeking, and knocking, Jesus says, “You parents—if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him” (Matthew 7:9-11). We can trust God in the waiting. We can trust Him when our prayers are in the queue. We are assured that He hears every word —that He knows what we need before we even ask Him—and that He answers our prayers (Psalm 34, Matthew 6:8). Lord, Thank You that we can trust You in the waiting, that You are a faithful God. We thank you that You are faithful to answer every prayer. We love you. In Jesus’s name, Amen. Further Reading: Matthew 6:8 Nehemiah 9, 9:8b Matthew 7:7-11 Luke 11:1-13 James 1:16-17 2 Samuel 22:31 Psalm 33:4-5 Psalm 34 Psalm 40:1-3 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Unlocking Scripture, Pt. 1The Authority of God's WordPsalm 138:1–8 | King's Chapel Live StreamGod has spoken, and His Word carries weight.In Psalm 138, we see a powerful picture of who God is and how His Word shapes every part of our lives. God has exalted His name and His Word above all things, revealing His steadfast love, faithfulness, and commitment to fulfill every promise He has made.This message begins our Unlocking Scripture series by focusing on the authority of God's Word. We are reminded that living for the glory of God's name means submitting our lives to what He has spoken. His Word can be trusted because it flows from His faithful character. What God promises, He fulfills. What God begins, He completes.Psalm 138 also assures us that God sees the lowly, strengthens His people in times of trouble, and accomplishes His purposes through the work of His hands. When we anchor our lives in Scripture, we find confidence, hope, and direction rooted in the unchanging truth of who God is.If you are seeking clarity, encouragement, or a deeper confidence in God's Word, this message invites you to see Scripture not as optional guidance, but as the authoritative voice of a faithful and loving God.Connect with King's Chapel in Longwood, FL - ▶️ www.kingschapelfl.com▶️ https://www.facebook.com/KingsChapelfl▶️ https://www.instagram.com/kingschapelfl/For the GLORY of our Great GodFor the GOOD of our Neighborauthority of God's Word, Psalm 138 sermon, Bible authority teaching, King's Chapel Longwood FL, trusting Scripture, God's faithfulness sermon, living for God's glory, unlocking Scripture series, Bible teaching church, confidence in God's promises

When Abram left Haran, it was with a multitude of people and many goods. These had increased greatly during his sojourn in Egypt. The same things were true for his nephew, Lot, and contributed to the problem told us in the end of chapter 13. Nonetheless Abram had learnt a great lesson in trust; and as an acknowledgment of that we are told in verse 4, "he made an altar and called on the name of Yahweh" (a name with which the faithful were familiar - see Genesis 4verses25-26). The location of this altar was between Bethel (the house of God) and Ai (ruin). His choices would determine whether his life would be ruined, or whether he would dwell with God - this is likewise true for each one of us. The troublesome Canaanites and Perizzites then dominated the land. The multitude of cattle made finding pasture difficult and the large number of people meant arguments were very common. A dispute caused Abram to suggest that they go their separate ways. Abram graciously allowed Lot the choice; and Lot chose the choicest pastures. Lot's choice was influenced by "the lust of his eyes". Abram was contented with trusting in the LORD to provide. The record uses the same words from God to Abram as is used of Lot's viewpoint. What God promised Abram was real estate - the earth (Romans 4verses13) - not a reward in heaven. Jesus taught the same in the Lord's Prayer, "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as in heaven" Matthew 6verses10. And as proof of what God had promised Abram; Abram was asked to walk on what he was to receive (see also Genesis 15verses18-21). Genesis 14 is an account of Abraham's rescue of his nephew Lot, who was takencaptive when a northern confederacy headed by Chedorlaomer - whose name signifies "a bundle of sheaves" - (the famous historical Hammurabi). The account is a literal event, but also symbolic of the nearing conflict of Armageddon, WW 3. Abram was "in fellowship " - confederate with two Amorites. The victor, Abram was offered rich rewards, which he spurned. The chapter's close sees the King-Priest of Jerusalem Melchizedek offering fellowship through bread and wine with God Almighty (see Hebrews chapters 5, 6 and 7; where the extended parable about the Lord Jesus Christ is explained).In Psalm 17 David seeks vindication from his Omnipotent Creator in whom David has sought and found protection in distress and constant care. David calls on Yahweh to rise and judge his enemies. But the greatest message from the Psalm is found in David's heartfelt hope, "As for me, I shall behold your face in righteousness; when I awake, I shall be satisfied with Thy likeness" ESV. The resurrection will bring the realisation of this hope (Philippians 3verses20-21; Colossians 3verses1-5.1 John 3verses1- 3).

In Psalm 67 we'll look at how God blesses His people as they make Him known among the nations.

Among the most central questions in the Christian life is this: What exactly do you believe about the Bible? Whether you've been reading the Bible regularly for decades, or have just begun to develop the spiritual habit, what you believe about the Scriptures will determine what you profit from reading them. In Psalm 119:105-112 we will see the example of the Psalmist, who shows us that the Bible is more than words on a page. It's light shining on our path, life in the face of death, and the joy of our hearts, forever.

In Genesis 9 we read of the LORD's command for this new creation, who had been preserved in the ark with Noah the 8th person (emblematic of Jesus whose name equals 888 in the Greek - compare 1Peter 3verses20-22); "to replenish (or fill) the earth" with this new creation. The fear and dominion of mankind over the lower creatures would be evident. There was a prohibition of eating food with the blood still in it - as the blood was representing life, which belonged to God. There was also a law reinforcing the penalty due to a murderer. Once more the Almighty covenants that He will never again destroy the earth by a flood. The surety of His promise being seen in the rainbow. The offspring from Noah's 3 sons - Shem, Ham and Japheth - peopled the newly refreshed earth. Unfortunately, Noah became drunk, and it seems was sodomised by his son Ham. Noah pronounced a curse on Ham and spoke of a blessing that would come through his son Shem. Jesus Christ came from the Jewish race -Romans 3verses1-2; 9verses3-5. Shem became the ancestral head of the Semitic and Asiatic people; Ham the progenitor of the African people; and Japheth the forbear of the European race. In Genesis 10 we are told of the 70 nations that came from Noah's 3 sons - Shem, Ham and Japheth - see Moses' comment in Deuteronomy 32verses8. There we are told that the number of nations was determined by the Almighty by the number of Israel's (Jacob's) children, who into Egypt (Genesis 46verses8, 27; see also the Apostle Paul's comments to the Athenians in Acts 17verses26).Psalm 11 tells of Yahweh being in His holy temple and mankind must understand this gives Him the authority to judge the wicked. Habakkuk gives us the take home message which we must ponder - 2verses14, 20.In Psalm 12 the psalmist muses, 'Why have the humble vanished and suffered oppression. Surely, the Omnipotent Creator cannot tolerate evil. Surely, He must act for the downtrodden against their oppressors. He gives the assurance that He will rise against them in His faithfulness. In the 13th Psalm the writer personal asks, 'How long will it be till the LORD intervenes in support of the writer. The writer declares that failure on the part of his Sovereign to act is a cause for the wicked to boast and vaunt themselves in the world. We see it constantly, but we can be assured that at the appropriate time judgment will be poured out upon the evil - Acts 17verses30-31.The judgment mentioned in Matthew 7 refers to critical fault finding in others and not the need to show discernment, which is essential for us to exercise, when we judge righteous judgment as we are commanded to do. The askers will receive; the seekers will find; and to the knockers doors will be opened. Our Lord highlights the golden rule - do to others what you would wish them to do for you.Striving to please God must characterise the disciple's life. The witness of those professing discipleship will be evidenced in their fruit; without which our Lord Jesus Christ and His Father will fail to recognisetheir children. Only doers of the Word and not simply forgetful hearers are grounded and established as faith upon the Rock.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

As a new year begins, we often look ahead with hope—or anxiety—wondering whether the coming days will truly be “happy.” In Psalm 103, David redirects our focus by calling his own soul to remember the Lord and His benefits. Rather than anchoring joy in changing circumstances, David roots confidence in the unchanging character of God.The psalm reminds us that the past matters, not because we dwell there, but because it reveals God's faithfulness—He forgives, heals, redeems, and crowns His people with steadfast love. At the same time, the future matters, not because it is predictable, but because it belongs to a God who renews strength and satisfies His people with good things.Ultimately, the key truth emerges: who we know is more important than what we face. Circumstances may shift, health may falter, plans may change—but those who are securely held by Jesus can face a new year with genuine hope. The answer to the question, “Happy New Year?” is found not in the calendar, but in Christ. It is a happy new year for all who are in the grip of Jesus.

As a new year begins, we often look ahead with hope—or anxiety—wondering whether the coming days will truly be “happy.” In Psalm 103, David redirects our focus by calling his own soul to remember the Lord and His benefits. Rather than anchoring joy in changing circumstances, David roots confidence in the unchanging character of God.The psalm reminds us that the past matters, not because we dwell there, but because it reveals God's faithfulness—He forgives, heals, redeems, and crowns His people with steadfast love. At the same time, the future matters, not because it is predictable, but because it belongs to a God who renews strength and satisfies His people with good things.Ultimately, the key truth emerges: who we know is more important than what we face. Circumstances may shift, health may falter, plans may change—but those who are securely held by Jesus can face a new year with genuine hope. The answer to the question, “Happy New Year?” is found not in the calendar, but in Christ. It is a happy new year for all who are in the grip of Jesus.

Happy New year.  I have a new year's prayer for you: I wish you the joy of His presence. In Psalm 21, David is pretty excited that the Lord shows up for the faithful national leader. He also warns what happens to those who "make mischief" against Him. Let's just say it isn't pretty.  It is like getting shot in the face with an arrow. All the punishment and wrath is so unnecessary. As the year starts, I recommend the joy of His presence.  Start the year right with a watch now, and another tomorrow. https://youtu.be/-ovLRzt42No

The end of the year has a way of slowing us down. We look back. We take stock. We start asking questions that don't usually make it into our busy days. In Psalm 90, Moses invites us to do exactly that. He reminds us that our days are limited, God is eternal, and wisdom begins when we learn to live with that perspective. This message explores what it means to number our days, take sin seriously, and anchor our lives in the goodness of God rather than the temporary things that so easily consume our time. If you've ever wondered whether your life is being spent on what truly matters, Psalm 90 offers clarity, hope, and a path toward a life that is both measured and meaningful. Sermon notes and discussion questions available at: https://www.citybridgechurch.org/messages Subscribe for weekly Sunday Messages on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Questions or feedback? DM us @citybridgecc or email info@citybridgechurch.org. Enjoyed the message? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

As we reflect after Christmas, we turn to the journey of the Magi—wise seekers drawn by a star and led to the Savior (Matthew 2:1–12). Their worship reminds us that Jesus came not just for one nation, but for the world. In Psalm 86, David declares that no other god compares to the Lord, whose steadfast love extends to all who call upon Him. This week, we remember that God's grace reaches across every border and barrier. Hope is not limited—it's global, generous, and gracious. As the Magi knelt in awe, so too we are invited to bow before the King who welcomes all and that is our Thread of Hope. 

As we reflect after Christmas, we turn to the journey of the Magi—wise seekers drawn by a star and led to the Savior (Matthew 2:1–12). Their worship reminds us that Jesus came not just for one nation, but for the world. In Psalm 86, David declares that no other god compares to the Lord, whose steadfast love extends to all who call upon Him. This week, we remember that God's grace reaches across every border and barrier. Hope is not limited—it's global, generous, and gracious. As the Magi knelt in awe, so too we are invited to bow before the King who welcomes all and that is our Thread of Hope. 

Have you ever noticed how those who care the most also tend to get worn out the easiest? In Psalm 119:139, the psalmist says this is true of himself. So what does he want us to take away from this?Music Credit: Johann Sebastian Bach, Trio from Brandenburg Concerto, No. 1, Movement 4

In Psalm 71, we have a man in his middle years looking back, looking around, and looking forward. He is musing over some of his life lessons of faith and wisdom, seeking to finish strong. This is a good exercise for all of us… whatever age we are! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1141/29?v=20251111

Life can feel like a whirlwind

Daily Morning Prayer (12/22/25) from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN): Psalm 107; Isaiah 55; Acts 22; Book of Common Praise 10If 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/To own a prayer book, visit: https://anglicanway.org/product/the-1662-book-of-common-prayer-international-edition-hardcover-march-2-2021/To own a hymnal, visit: https://anglicanhousepublishers.org/shop/the-book-of-common-praise-of-the-reformed-episcopal-church/

Daily Morning Prayer (12/22/25) from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN): Psalm 107; Isaiah 55; Acts 22; Book of Common Praise 10If 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/To own a prayer book, visit: https://anglicanway.org/product/the-1662-book-of-common-prayer-international-edition-hardcover-march-2-2021/To own a hymnal, visit: https://anglicanhousepublishers.org/shop/the-book-of-common-praise-of-the-reformed-episcopal-church/

Psalm 130:1-8 - Speaker: Lukus Counterman - We are just days away from Christmas but that doesn't mean everyone is enjoying joy and peace. As a matter of fact, some people feel like their sinking – sinking relationally, sinking financially, sinking spiritually. In Psalm 130, the author writes about the depths of life but then points us to our only hope. Wherever you are this Christmas, “hope in the Lord!”

Joy doesn't disappear when life gets hard — but it does deepen.In Psalm 126, we see a joy that isn't built on circumstances, but on remembering God's faithfulness, honestly bringing our needs to Him, and trusting that today's tears are not wasted.This week, we explore how true joy is formed in the waiting, sustained in suffering, and anchored in the promises of God. Advent reminds us that joy has arrived — and it's still coming.Subscribe to stay up to date with what God is doing at Creekside Church!Website: https://creekside.churchInstagram: @creeksidechurchnp

Daily Morning Prayer (12/15/25) from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN): Psalm 75-77; Isaiah 43; Acts 15; Metrical Psalm 32:6-9, and a brief reading from the Books of Homilies6 True penitents shall thus succeed, who see, thee whilst thou may'st be found; And, from the common deluge freed shall see remorseless sinners drowned. 7 Thy favor, Lord, in all distress, my tow'r of refuge I must own; Thou shalt my haughty foes suppress and me with songs of triumph crown. 8 In my instruction then confide, you that would truth's safe pad descry; Your progress I'll securely guide, and keep you in my watchful eye. 9 Submit yourselves to wisdom's rule, like men that reason have attained; Not like th' ungoverned horse and mule, whose fury must be curbed and reined.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/To own a prayer book, visit: https://anglicanway.org/product/the-1662-book-of-common-prayer-international-edition-hardcover-march-2-2021/To own a hymnal, visit: https://anglicanhousepublishers.org/shop/the-book-of-common-praise-of-the-reformed-episcopal-church/

Daily Evening Prayer (12/15/25) from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN): Psalm 78; Isaiah 44; 1 Peter 3; Metrical Psalm 32:8-11, and a brief reading from the Books of Homilies8 In my instruction then confide, you that would truth's safe pad descry; Your progress I'll securely guide, and keep you in my watchful eye. 9 Submit yourselves to wisdom's rule, like men that reason have attained; Not like th' ungoverned horse and mule, whose fury must be curbed and reined. 10 Sorrows on sorrows multiplied the hardened sinner shall confound, But them who in his truth confide, blessings of mercy shall surround. 11 His saints that have performed his laws their life in triumph shall employ; Let them, as they alone have cause, in grateful raptures shout for joy.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/To own a prayer book, visit: https://anglicanway.org/product/the-1662-book-of-common-prayer-international-edition-hardcover-march-2-2021/To own a hymnal, visit: https://anglicanhousepublishers.org/shop/the-book-of-common-praise-of-the-reformed-episcopal-church/

Daily Evening Prayer (12/14/25) from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN): Psalm 73-74; Isaiah 26; 1 Peter 2; Metrical Psalm 32:1-5, and a brief reading from the Books of Homilies1 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/To own a prayer book, visit: https://anglicanway.org/product/the-1662-book-of-common-prayer-international-edition-hardcover-march-2-2021/To own a hymnal, visit: https://anglicanhousepublishers.org/shop/the-book-of-common-praise-of-the-reformed-episcopal-church/

In Psalm 40:6–8, David speaks of a servant who delights to do God's will, not merely offering sacrifices but giving wholehearted obedience. Yet David himself could never fully live up to those words. In Hebrews 10, the Holy Spirit reveals their true fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The One who entered the world saying, “Behold, I have come to do Your will, O God.” This sermon traces the movement from Psalm 40 to Hebrews 10, showing how Christ came not only to die for our sins, but to live the perfectly obedient life we could never live. Through His active obedience and His once-for-all sacrificial death, Jesus provides everything God requires for our salvation. Christmas, then, is the beginning of Christ's mission of obedience. Obedience that leads from the cradle to the cross, and from the cross to a finished work that secures forgiveness, righteousness, and peace with God for all who trust in Him.

Daily Morning Prayer (12/13/25) from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN): Psalm 68; Isaiah 39; Acts 13; Metrical Psalm 31:9-129 Thy mercy, Lord, display, and hear my just complaint; For both my soul and flesh decay, with grief and hunger faint. 10 Sad thoughts my life oppress; my years are spent in groans; My sins have made my strength decrease, and e'en consumed my bones. 11 My foes my suff'rings mocked; my neighbors did upbraid; My friends, at sight of me, were shocked, and fled as men dismayed. 12 Forsook by all am I, as dead and out of mind; And like a shattered vessel lie, whose parts can ne'er be joined.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/To own a prayer book, visit: https://anglicanway.org/product/the-1662-book-of-common-prayer-international-edition-hardcover-march-2-2021/To own a hymnal, visit: https://anglicanhousepublishers.org/shop/the-book-of-common-praise-of-the-reformed-episcopal-church/

“Dad, can you get me some water?” my youngest daughter asked. “Sure,” I said, bringing her a full cup. She took it wordlessly. Then my oldest daughter made the same request. She didn’t respond either after I got her some water. Annoyed, I blurted out, “Is anyone going to say, ‘Thank you’? Why is that so hard?” Sometimes there’s nothing like parental frustration to open the door for God to work. Immediately, I felt the gentle nudge of the Holy Spirit: Yes, Adam, why is it so hard to say “Thank you”? Busted. Turns out a lack of gratitude isn’t just my kids’ problem; it’s mine, too. I don’t know why saying thank you can be so hard, but it certainly seems to be a part of the human condition. In the psalms, however, we see a model for growing in gratitude. There, David and others often praise God amid myriad trials. And a particular phrase frequently precedes their thanksgiving: “I will.” In Psalm 9:1, David deliberately chooses thankfulness: “I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” We might be prone to think of gratitude primarily as a feeling. But David reminds us that it’s also a choice. Like David, as we choose to cultivate a habit of giving thanks, we can gradually grow to recognize and appreciate God’s goodness in every aspect of life.

Today, you and I will face things that will threaten our faith, especially our faith in God's protection. You might be worried about your marriage, the decisions your children are making, the future of your career, the economy, or even your physical safety. You might be worried about your retirement account, the increase in crime in your neighborhood, or an upcoming medical test. There are so many things that threaten our faith in God's protection.Main Points:1. First, remembering God's past protection inspires us to believe God will protect us in the present and future. Remembering what God has already done inspires confidence in God's future faithfulness. 2. Second, David knows the power of verbalizing his faith. He worships out loud. In Psalm 27:6, David says, “I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord.” By writing down this Psalm, he is declaring what he believes about God. In doing both of these things, he is encouraging his own soul in the Lord.3. You and I can do this today. No matter what you are facing, put your faith in God and in His power to protect you. Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 27:1-2 - “The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked came against me To eat up my flesh, My enemies and foes, They stumbled and fell. Though an army may encamp against me, My heart shall not fear; Though war may rise against me, In this I will be confident.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Loneliness and spiritual distance spike during busy or painful seasons, but God hasn’t moved—our focus often has. Cindi McMenamin unpacks spiritual closeness, biblical community, and peace over loneliness through Hebrews 10:25, offering practical resets for reconnecting to God’s voice and His people. The first two sentences intentionally spotlight top keywords like God seems distant, biblical encouragement, and Hebrews 10 community for better discoverability. Highlights When God feels far, check the direction of your heart before checking the volume of His voice. Belief knows about God; obedience walks toward Him. Worry works like noise-canceling headphones… but the cheap kind with static. God’s Word and Jesus aren’t separate subscriptions—they’re the same plan. Avoiding community with believers often amplifies loneliness, not peace. Encouragement is a two-way street, and we all need construction cones in busy months. Closeness to God grows with intentional daily choices, not seasonal luck. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: When God Seems Distant By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading:“And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” - Hebrews 10:25 NLT Are there days when you feel lonely and you wonder why? Isn’t God supposed to always be with you? Didn’t He promise in Hebrews 13:5 that He’d never leave His people? So why do you still feel lonely? Often, we are tempted to say, “God’s not speaking to me. He’s become distant.” But in reality, you and I are the ones who stopped talking to, stopped listening, or moved further away from Him. God promises us in Romans 8:38-39 that nothing can separate us from His love, so if you feel like God is distant, perhaps it’s a result of one or more of these three scenarios: You might not be following Him closely. When we are merely believers, but not obedient followers of Jesus, the abundant life Jesus promised us in John 10:10 is not ours and this can result in feeling anxious, uncertain, and lonely. Through a lack of obedience to God or misplaced priorities, we can hold back the blessings He has for those who fully surrender to Him. It’s possible to possess a head knowledge of God (in which we know what we’re supposed to do and not to do), without engaging our hearts and loving Him with all that we are. That’s when we become stuck between the now and the not yet. We live in the now of the difficulties of life on our own and have not yet experienced the joys and blessings of a life fully surrendered to Him. In the now, you may have an understanding that there’s a God and you’ll be held accountable to Him. But you don’t yet have enough of an understanding of Him, or passion for Him, to pursue a closer relationship with Him that will lead to the fulfillment you seek. You might be worrying and not clinging to His Word. Mark 4:19 tells us the worries of this world choke the Word’s fruitfulness in our lives. If we claim God’s not talking to us through His Word, it’s possible we are worriers and our worrisome thoughts and anxieties are drowning out God’s voice. Don’t underestimate the importance of being in God’s Word regularly in order to grow closer to Jesus and to keep from sin (worry is just one sin among many). Psalm 119:9 asks: “How can a [person] keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word” (NASB). To live in close relationship with God is to embrace Jesus and His Word because Jesus is defined in John 1:1 as the Word. To accept Him is to accept His Word. To love Him is to love His Word. To obey Him and abide in (or dwell closely with) Him, is to obey and abide in His Word. God’s Word is for us today just as much as Jesus is for us today. We can’t separate the two or claim we want Jesus, but His Word is no longer relevant. Abiding in His Word is not optional for the follower of Christ, it’s essential. You might be avoiding other believers. Ignoring God’s commands in His Word, harboring sin in our lives, or avoiding community with other Christ-followers can also lead to feelings of loneliness. In Psalm 25, David asked God to turn to him and be gracious to him because he was lonely and afflicted. David prayed, “Relieve the troubles of my heart and free me from my anguish. Look on my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins” (verses 16-18). David acknowledged a direct correlation between sin in his life and the loneliness he experienced—likely from a separation from God’s people. (While sin itself doesn’t separate us from God’s presence, we often voluntarily separate ourselves from God’s people when we’re in sin.) David ended his song with these words: “May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you” (verse 21). David knew that the key to personal fulfillment and even God’s protection was that he maintain integrity and uprightness and keep his hope firmly in the Lord. Integrity and uprightness can put us in a place where we experience less loneliness. And we can live with integrity when we embrace God’s Word and welcome the fellowship and accountability of God’s people. Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you need to set your heart on growing in your love relationship with God? Do you need to get into His Word so you will know Him more fully and He will be more than just a belief system? Or do you need to connect with a local church and become more closely intertwined with other believers? God is waiting for you to leave behind your loneliness and experience His presence—and His people—once again. Lord, I realize You are not the One who distances Yourself. Help me to get back into Your Word and into the places where Your people gather. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. Further Reading: Romans 8:38-39. For more on overcoming your loneliness, see Cindi’s book, The New Loneliness Devotional: 50 Days to a Closer Connection with God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We've reached the final week of our "Grateful Anyway" series, and Lead Pastor Clay Monkus brings us to the foundation that makes lasting gratitude possible. In Psalm 100:4–5, we encounter a worship song sung by God's people as they entered the temple courts. This wasn't just a feel-good moment—it was a declaration rooted in deep theology. The psalmist calls us to give thanks and praise, but notice where the focus lands: on God's goodness, His enduring love, and His faithfulness that spans every generation. Here's the truth: gratitude anchored in circumstances will always be fragile. When life is good, we're thankful. When life gets hard, our gratitude wavers. But when we transfer our gratitude from the gifts to the Giver—from what God does to who God is—everything changes. That kind of gratitude grows deep roots that can withstand any storm. This message will challenge you to build your thankfulness on the only foundation that never shifts: the unchanging character of God. His love doesn't fluctuate with your circumstances. His faithfulness doesn't depend on your performance. And His goodness endures forever. Series Theme: This series explores how to find and express thankfulness even when circumstances are far from perfect. True gratitude isn't based on circumstances—it's rooted in the character of God, which never changes. Scripture: Psalm 100:4–5 As we close this series, our prayer is that you'll discover a gratitude that goes deeper than your circumstances—a gratitude anchored in the God who never changes.

Advent invites us to slow down, quiet our hearts, and prepare for the coming of Christ.In this guided Christian meditation, you’ll reflect on Scripture and rest in God’s peace as you anticipate the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Be Still: Advent Meditations for Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love helps you create space in this busy season to experience the presence of Christ and the peace He brings. Download your FREE Advent Guide here. The first week of Advent, we focus on hope—the hope we have because Jesus came once and the hope we hold because He will come again.In Psalm 62, David reminds his own soul to rest and trust in God alone. As you meditate on these verses, you’ll be invited to do the same—to find rest, peace, and renewed hope in the God who keeps His promises. Because this season can be hectic, I’ll release a short guided prayer each Wednesday during Advent to help you pause midweek and stay grounded in God’s peace. If you loved the music this week, it was used by permission of the artist Simon Wester. You can find more of his excellent music on Spotify here. Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Advent here.This beautiful guide includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Scripture: Psalm 62:5–8 (NIV) 5 Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.6 Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.7 My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.8 Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In Psalm 107, we are invited to ponder and reflect on the situations in life that cause people to cry out to the Lord in desperation and distress. The circumstances described are common to all of us. What is God's response in each of them?

[sermon_banner] In Psalm 36, we awaken from sin's deceit and treasure God's steadfast love, receiving ancient, Spirit-inspired prayers that reorient our daily walk with the Lord. [sermon_media_line]

In Psalm 8, David marveled at the stars. And as he did so, he considered God's power. ‘What is man,' David asked, that God should care for him? In other words, why would a God so big care for people so small? And yet, He does. In today's text, we'll consider the towering yet tender … Read More Read More

In Psalm 23, David portrays God as a Good Shepherd who provides, protects, and remains present with His people. He describes God leading him to rest, restoring his soul, guiding him toward righteousness, and staying close even in life's darkest valleys. God defends him against enemies, blesses him abundantly, and promises His goodness and presence for all his days. The psalm emphasizes God's care, provision, guidance, and unfailing companionship. The God who leads, protects, and provides in Psalm 23 is the same Jesus who knows His people personally and gives His life for them. In John 10:14–15, Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd, claiming a personal and intimate knowledge of His followers—just as He knows the Father and the Father knows Him. He demonstrates the depth of His love by stating that He lays down His life for His sheep, revealing the sacrificial nature of His care.

True gratitude is more than a warm feeling—it’s a God-designed response that reshapes how we see Him, ourselves, and the people around us. Scripture shows that real thankfulness flows from the heart, is rooted in God’s Word, and grows stronger in every circumstance. When we recognize gratitude as a divine gift rather than a human habit, we begin to see how it transforms our faith, our relationships, and our daily mindset. Highlights Gratitude begins in the heart and naturally overflows into worship (Psalm 9:1). Scripture calls us to give thanks in all circumstances—not just the pleasant ones (1 Thessalonians 5:18). True gratitude doesn’t pick favorites; it thanks God for everything, trusting His goodness (Ephesians 5:20). We thank Jesus for His strength, His calling, and His constant work in our lives (1 Timothy 1:12). Genuine gratitude includes thanking God for fellow believers who walk beside us (Colossians 1:3). Remembering God’s past deeds fuels present praise and future confidence (Psalm 9:1). Gratitude celebrates the grace God pours out on others (1 Corinthians 1:4). We give thanks for the faith growing in believers around the world (Romans 1:8). Gratitude honors the love God cultivates in His people (Ephesians 1:15–16). Remembering others in prayer is itself an act of gratitude (Philippians 1:3). Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: What the Bible Teaches about True Gratitude By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.” - 1 Thessalonians 2:13 In looking to learn about gratitude, the Bible is our teacher, with God being the author and creator of gratitude. It isn’t a human invention but a God-given response that rises up within us because He created us to express gratitude to Him. In learning to thank Him, it’s where thankfulness spills over to expressing gratitude to those we love and even strangers we interact with on a daily basis. Gratitude isn’t by any means a product of human nature or our fallen world, but rather a divine gift from God above who stirs it up deep within our hearts. Throughout the Bible, God encourages us to give thanks and to show true gratitude. The following are ten true characteristics the Bible teaches about true gratitude. True biblical gratitude comes from the heart. If anyone knew how to express gratitude to God, it’s David. Whether shepherd boy or king, his heart seemed to overflow with it. David teaches us that gratitude is a heart issue, writing in Psalm 9:1, “I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” True biblical gratitude is for all circumstances. Gratitude has no boundaries, meaning it isn’t reserved for happy times only, which the Apostle Paul knew all too well, experiencing many circumstances in his life, difficult ones. So, if anyone knew how to give thanks in all circumstances, it was him. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, he shares his wisdom, writing, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” True biblical gratitude is for everything. Whether good, bad, or ugly, the Bible teaches that true gratitude makes no exceptions in life. No matter if life is empty or full, we’re called to give thanks to God, focusing on Him and not what’s going on in our lives. As Ephesians 5:20 urges, “Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” True biblical gratitude is given to Jesus for all He does for us. For all the benefits and blessings we receive from Christ Jesus, the Bible teaches us to give thanks. Paul models how in 1 Timothy 1:12, “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that He considered me trustworthy, appointing me to His service.” True biblical gratitude thanks the Father for fellow believers. True gratitude thanks God for our brothers and sisters in Christ, as Colossians 1:3 encourages. “We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you.” True biblical gratitude remembers God’s wonderful deeds. In Psalm 9:1, David points out the importance of remembering and telling others every wonderful deed God has performed. True biblical gratitude includes thanking God for the grace He gives to others. As 1 Corinthians 1:4 encourages us, “I always thank my God for you because of His grace given to you in Christ Jesus.” True biblical gratitude offers thanks for the faith of others. Paul teaches us how true gratitude thanks God for the faith He gives to those around us, as he wrote in Romans 1:8. “First, “I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world.” True biblical gratitude honors love in others. Paul, again, in Ephesians 1:15-16 explains, “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.” True biblical gratitude is expressed in remembering others. As Philippians 1:3 reminds us to give thanks in remembering others. “I thank my God every time I remember you.” Intersecting Faith & Life: Our best teacher when it comes to learning about true gratitude is found in the Bible. As the author of gratitude, no one knows or can teach us more about it than God. He is our authority on how, when, where, and why to express it. Further Reading:Cultivating Thankfulness Each and Every Day of the Year Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The freelance project wasn’t working out well. The clients were demanding what seemed to be the impossible, and I was stressed and discouraged. My first reaction was just to walk away from it, which would mean not getting paid for the work I’d done—and also eliminating the possibility of future projects with them. Then the thought came to me: Have you prayed to God yet? Mentally slapping my forehead, I realized that I’d neglected to ask God for help! And so I prayed . . . and immediately felt better. Nothing had changed—the project remained challenging—but I felt peace wash over me. Now, I knew I could rest in God: I’d just do whatever I could and leave the outcome to Him. Perhaps David felt the same way when he submitted his fears and worries to God. In Psalm 6, he started off describing his anguish at being hounded by his enemies (Psalm 6:3, 7). But as he continued turning to God for help, he felt reassured: “The Lord has heard my cry . . . the Lord accepts my prayer” (v. 9). That truth came with the hope that he would be delivered, in God’s time and way (v. 10). Prayer isn’t some feel-good technique, but it’s a direct connection with an all-seeing, all-powerful God who will help us in His time and way. Feeling down or discouraged? Just pray—God hears.

In Psalm 126, God is revealed as the God who restores the fortunes squandered by previous generations through idolatrous living. Many generations have to seemingly ‘begin again' because the poor choices, vices, and infidelities of the previous generations. However, there is a God who is above that and who delights in restoring the fortunes to those who call upon His name!