Podcasts about in scripture

“God Is Fully With Us In These Strange Days”   By Mary Lindow   Just over 2,000 years ago, Emmanuel, also called the Christ, changed the world.  In that moment when God became flesh, humanity watched prophecies unfold as hope was born. Jesus, our Emmanuel, provided hope that sin and death wouldn't always win and mankind wouldn't always feel so painfully alone.    What Does Emmanuel Mean in the Bible? It's a word written on countless Christmas cards and sung in some of our most-loved carols.  In Scripture, it first appears in the Old Testament in Isaiah 7:14, which says,    “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign;  The virgin will conceive, and give birth to a Son, and will call Him Emmanuel”.   The Lord Himself will do this, Scripture says.  In other words, this act, which occurred in the birth of Christ, was God-ordained and God-accomplished.    This points to grace, which doesn't come through human effort but rather through relying on God to do what we humans cannot. This was the reason Christ came.    God GAVE us this child, named Emmanuel, which literally means,  “with us is God,” or “God WITH us.”    He may seem distant.  It may even seem impossible this year for you to feel hopeful.  You might have lost your job.  Or maybe you're feeling isolated from those you love.  You may have even grieved the loss of a family member or friend.   Though he may have felt far away to them,  God was so much closer than his people knew — gently planning Jesus' entrance into the world in the most unexpected way.   Looking around, all you might be able to see right now is darkness.  If you try to adjust your eyes, blinking into the night, there seems to be no light.  The weight of sickness, death, injustice and pain perhaps, seem too heavy.   That's why I love this idea of advent which is practiced only among Christians.  And yes, it comes from probably a more liturgical view, but has been so embraced and now practice in homes and church gatherings across the world, as families gather to contemplate and to pray and to spend quiet time discussing when Jesus came as a child as the Messiah!  Emmanuel!!! God WITH Us!     Advent means "coming" or "arrival" and refers to the Christian season that begins four Sundays before Christmas, where focusing on preparation for the celebration of Jesus's birth and his anticipated return is a beautiful thing! It's definitely better than the commercial glut of constant “buy, buy, buy,” and, the overkill of sappy fantasy Christmas shows, as well as the pressurized giving of gifts to every boss, coworker, friend and pet!  It's a time of expectation, reverence and hope for many Christians!   I was reading through a Wycliffe advent devotional last evening, and these words so struck me that I'm going to share them with you trusting that they too, will move your heart to remember that Emmanuel, God …. IS with us!  No matter what may come   This excerpt of the devotional said, “As we enter the Advent season, do you feel weary? You're not alone. Or maybe you're just tired. Numb. Ready to pull the covers over your head and try this whole "Christmas cheer" thing again next year.    Don't feel guilty.  Instead, acknowledge the very real darkness of this world and you'll have eyes to see Advent through the same lens as the people waiting for a Messiah thousands of years ago. You could even say that being weary and worn out is an acceptable place from which to approach this Advent season. Because Advent exists to remind us that, while darkness surrounds us and troubles exist, the hope of Christmas isn't far away.   The people of Israel hadn't heard anything from God about their redeemer.  God's chosen people must have cried out to him, asking how long it would be before their hope, their salvation, would arrive!  It was too dark, and God seemed to be silent.    Has he felt that way to you this year? Silent? Though he may have felt far away to them, God was so much closer than his people knew —gently planning Jesus' entrance into the world in the most unexpected way.   But at the appointed time, Jesus came — God with us in flesh and blood. Born in Bethlehem, carried to Egypt, raised in Nazareth. Son of Man and Son of God. A humble child and a holy King. Worshiped by some, rejected by many. Fully human, yet eternally divine.”     What beautiful and raw honesty in those words in that excerpt from the devotional!   Friends! Any way you look at it, Emmanuel was a living Divine Grace.  The infinite King, wrapped in the cloth of an infant.  The holy One, living among the fallen.  In Him, the impossible became real, not only in prophecy, but in His very presence.    When God stepped into our world,  “impossible” lost all meaning.     In Isaiah 42:16 it says, “And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not;  I will lead them in paths that they have not known:  I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight.  These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.”      Dear believer!  The darkness of this world has always tried encroach upon the joy and the hope of God being with his people.  It hates that we cling to the light, and even though we cannot see or understand, everything fully about the ONE who came and paid the price for us, yet we abandoned our own hearts to him, trusting that he will guide and light our path. It is in this practice that all of hell must bow its knee and tremble for the very fact that Christ is in us and he is the hope of glory.  Someday we will return to the ONE who created us, but for now, he has come to walk with us, to be with us, and his Holy Spirit is here to correct, to guide, to convict and to advocate for us.    Let us cry out, “Oh Come! Oh Come Emmanuel! Oh come God! Be with us, in us, and move through us to help others who are trapped in the darkness!”   Let's take time to pray together about all of this right now. Lord God, only you can see into our hearts and know that under all the busy-ness of our lives , there is a deep longing to make this season one that welcomes you more deeply into our own lives.   Our hearts desire the warmth of your love and our minds search for your Light in the midst of the darkness. Help us to be peacemakers this season and to give special love to those who disagree with us. Please, Give us the strength and courage to forgive those who have hurt us or who treat us dismissively. Help us to free our hearts from the prison of anger and hurt. Only you Lord can bless us, protect us from all evil, and bring us rest in this weary world. We thank you for being a God that IS  with us! Amen.   Duplication and sharing of this writing is welcomed As long as the complete message, website and podcast  information for Mary Lindow is included. Thank You! Copyright © 2025   " THE MESSENGER "  - "The Advocate of Hope"  Mary Lindow www.marylindow.com PODCAST   If you would be so kind and assist Mary helping her to meet other administrative needs such as website and podcast costs,  or  desire to bless her service in ministry with Spirit-led Love gifts or regular support: Please JOYFULLY send your gift in the form of:  ► Personal Checks ► Business Checks ► Money Orders ► Cashiers Checks To:  His Beloved Ministries Inc.  PO Box 1253 Denver, Colorado 80614  USA    Or feel free to use our send a tax-deductible gift with Pay Pal   paypal.me/mlindow  Under the name of - Mary Lindow His Beloved Ministries Inc.    ALL gifts are tax-deductible under His Beloved Ministries 5013c non-profit status.   We are financially accountable and have been in full compliance since 1985.  THANK YOU!      

Most assume that the difference between Greek literature and the Semitic Scrolls, written in Biblical Hebrew, Aramaic, and Qurʾanic Arabic, lies in narrative. It does not. Narrative is the veil, a carrier wave for what remains unseen. Everything hinges on lexicography. The decisive divide is grammatical.Greek “meaning” is a conceptually “built” construct, grounded in philosophical abstraction and analytic inference. Semitic function emerges from triliteral consonantal roots that test, constrain, and judge the observer. Greek vocabulary operates within a narrow conceptual field, like a teenager wearing a VR headset, viewing an AI paradise while sitting in a garbage heap. Semitic vocabulary operates within an open functional field. The same teenager with the headset removed, discovering he sits in an open field among living, breathing things, where biblical roots carry behavioral consequences.This becomes immediately visible in Luke 8:47. The single Greek verb λανθάνω (lanthano) activates a constellation of six distinct Hebrew roots:ע־ל־ם (ʿayin-lamed-mem, hiddenness)מ־ע־ל (mem-ʿayin-lamed, covert breach)צ־פ־ן (ṣade-fe-nun, stashing, treasuring)ע־ד־ר (ʿayin-dalet-resh, missing from the count)כ־ח־ד (kaf-ḥet-dalet, concealment from the king)ר־א־ה (resh-ʾalef-he, divine seeing)That Scripture draws on such a wide Semitic field to express “not escaping notice” shows how seriously the biblical tradition treats hiddenness and uncovering. Each root contributes a different functional angle: what is hidden to humans, what is hidden in betrayal, what is hidden as hoarded, what is missing from the tally, what is concealed from authority, and what is seen by God. The phenomenon is not Greek versus Hebrew. Multiple Semitic operations of judgment underwrite a single functional moment in Luke. This density is lexical, not narrative, let alone speculative. It reflects how the Semitic system encodes the living, breathing reality around us.Across the Abrahamic scrolls, these triliteral roots operate like living tissue. They replicate, invert, intensify, and map action to consequence. Hidden sin is traceable in Hebrew because ע־ל־ם (ʿayin-lamed-mem) is not a metaphor but a function. It moves. The Qurʾan does the same with خ-ف-ي (khāʾ-fāʾ-yāʾ) and غ-ف-ل (ghayn-fāʾ-lām). Luke's Greek lexicon operates because a biological Hebrew bone structure undergirds the scroll. Without that structural field, no instance of λανθάνω (lanthano) conveys, or is able to convey, the full weight of divine accounting. However, once the field is “seen” Scripturally, “with the ears,” the semantics are relentless. The Pauline scales (not scales of measurement) fall off. (Acts 9:18)Only a Hellenist, in our time a Westerner, is fooled by what they can see, or worse, by what they imagine they can explain. A true Semite has ears to hear. Through hearing, the blind learn to see, and the deaf and the mute are healed.The unseen, الغيب (al-ghayb) and נֶעֱלָם (neʿlam), is not mysticism. It is judgment. It is the Lord's test. Hiddenness is God's domain. Covering belongs to God; uncovering belongs to God; the scales of measurement, المِيزَان (al-mīzān) belong to God; the tally belongs to God. The Qurʾan repeats the decree of Luke, that the Lord is not unaware of what you do. Previously, Ecclesiastes insisted the same. Every hidden deed is brought into judgment. (Ecclesiastes 12:14) Luke and Matthew proclaimed that what is concealed will be shouted openly. (Matthew 10:26; Luke 12:2) This mechanism is not literary ornamentation. It is the biological operating system of the Abrahamic scrolls, coded in living, breathing triliteral grammar.The problem for the now dominant West is that Greek thought presupposes that meaning originates in the human mind. The human city becomes the center, the planted earth becomes a concretized static, or idolized center, human proportion becomes the measure, and vision, human sight, becomes epistemology. Once vision governs understanding, enlightenment becomes darkness, because the logos of the human being projects its categories outward.Scripture dismantles this, not because the Greeks lacked intelligence, but because the entire Greek system assumes the human observer as the reference point.Scripture forbids this. Every consonant is intentional. Greek has letters that should not exist because they collapse two sounds into a single symbol. To the Semitic ear, as Fr. Paul Tarazi explains, “psi, xi, and the Greek chi” expose that Greek writing is constructed, not found. The Greek alphabet was designed, not discovered. It is man-made. It does not correspond to what is heard in nature. The living and moving, breathing triliteral system prevents human projection by preventing morphological collapse. The scriptural lexicon forces the hearer to receive what is written in creation. In Scripture, projection is stripped away and reality is conveyed as inscribed. The effect is destabilizing. Idols disappear. The hearer is confronted by what is found, confronted by reality.God is not mocked.Hearing is the anchor. The Greek philosophical tradition debates whether vision originates in the eye or in the object, a question already speculative. Scripture never entertains such speculation. Hearing is unilateral. The hearer does not hear the self. The hearer receives. Scripture is heard, not inferred, not theorized, not constructed, not “built”. The Qurʾan operates the same way. قَرَأَ (qaraʾ, to recite), أَذَان (adhān, the call), أُذْن (udhn, ear, instrument of hearing). Sound poured into another's ear. Scripture is submission through hearing what is found unbound by the logos of man. Cosmology heard, not seen, let alone imagined. Functional. Simple, not simplistic.All of us are shaped by whatever language we hear in our environment from the time we are born, and Scripture is the only speech that shatters that formation, continually scattering us out of our own projection, the palaces and temples we build in our mind, into the hearing of the biblical God who speaks in the wilderness. It cannot and must not be “about” narrative. It must function as the living words themselves, the breathing lexicon of God. He must control our literal vocabulary.Scripture is heard, not built.It is found, not fashioned by man's logos.Western thought resists this simplicity because the God of Abraham leaves no hiding place for Greek temples. No hiding place for sin.This week, I discuss Luke 8:47-48. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

There's a kind of judgment in the Bible that doesn't come as fire or thunder. It comes when God steps back and lets people have exactly what they keep reaching for. Most have tasted a little of that in their own lives—a job that seemed perfect but slowly hollowed life out, a choice that looked wise until consequences started piling up, a desire that promised joy but delivered something thinner and sharper. It raises an uncomfortable question: what if getting what the heart insists on isn't always a blessing? In Scripture, God sometimes lets people walk into the future they're determined to build, not to crush them, but to show how fragile those hopes actually are. These moments reveal whether trust rests on God or on something that can't hold the weight placed on it. And that tension sits right at the centre of this passage.

All things in life eventually come to an end, and when they do, it can feel devastating. That's why it's important to cultivate a theology of departure, loss, and grief. In Scripture, many endings—such as Abram and Lot parting ways or even Jesus's earthly ministry concluding—do not signal doom but progress. After all, if Jesus had not departed, the Holy Spirit would not have come. Instead of being alarmed by departure, we're invited to embrace it as an inherent part of life. In doing so, we become able to recognize and receive the new things that follow. Scripture: Gen 13: 1-12 Abram and Lot Separate 13 So Abram went up from Egypt to the Negev, with his wife and everything he had, and Lot went with him. 2 Abram had become very wealthy in livestock and in silver and gold. 3 From the Negev he went from place to place until he came to Bethel, to the place between Bethel and Ai where his tent had been earlier 4 and where he had first built an altar. There Abram called on the name of the Lord. 5 Now Lot, who was moving about with Abram, also had flocks and herds and tents. 6 But the land could not support them while they stayed together, for their possessions were so great that they were not able to stay together. 7 And quarreling arose between Abram's herders and Lot's. The Canaanites and Perizzites were also living in the land at that time. 8 So Abram said to Lot, “Let's not have any quarreling between you and me, or between your herders and mine, for we are close relatives. 9 Is not the whole land before you? Let's part company. If you go to the left, I'll go to the right; if you go to the right, I'll go to the left.” 10 Lot looked around and saw that the whole plain of the Jordan toward Zoar was well watered, like the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt. (This was before the Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah.) 11 So Lot chose for himself the whole plain of the Jordan and set out toward the east. The two men parted company: 12 Abram lived in the land of Canaan, while Lot lived among the cities of the plain and pitched his tents near Sodom.

In Scripture, a mystery is a divine truth that can only be revealed by God. Through Christ, God created one new humanity—no longer divided by male or female, Jew or Gentile. We have become one nation, one people, welcomed into His kingdom. And now, through the Holy Spirit, we have been made the very dwelling place of God!We truly received an upgrade from what Adam and Eve experienced. They heard the Father's voice externally—on the wind. But because we have received the baptism of the Holy Spirit, His voice now speaks from within us. Through the Spirit, the curse has been reversed.Because of His indwelling presence, we can expect the glory and love of God to be revealed in us. This glory brings unity among believers, and His indwelling establishes us firmly in the faith.Paul's goal was that every believer would receive the revelation of Christ and understand that we are made perfect in Him. Perfect here means “it is finished.” We become the finished work of Christ!

Did The Bible Warn Us About Mamdan? • The Todd Coconato Show Website: www.toddcoconato.com | www.pastortodd.org To give and support this ministry and these broadcasts: www.toddcoconato.com/give We are living in prophetic times. New York City, one of the most influential cities on earth, has just elected a leader aligned with a worldview in direct opposition to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Many are shocked... but spiritually, we should not be surprised. Scripture gives us a blueprint for moments like this. When a people turn away from God, they begin selecting leaders who reflect their rebellion. This is not only a political moment. This is a spiritual moment. Understanding the Biblical Pattern: Israel Chooses Saul To understand what is happening spiritually, we need to revisit a foundational story from the Bible in the book of 1 Samuel. Israel was originally led by God Himself. He raised up prophets and judges to guide them. But the people grew restless. They saw the nations around them ruled by kings, and they wanted to look like the world. They wanted a king they could see, someone impressive, someone who gave the illusion of strength and control. They went to God's prophet, Samuel, and demanded a king. Samuel warned them by the Spirit of God that a worldly ruler would bring hardship, oppression, and spiritual decay. But they refused to listen. They insisted on choosing what looked strong rather than who was godly. 1 Samuel 8:7 (NKJV) “And the Lord said to Samuel… they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them.” Saul was chosen because he appeared powerful and charismatic. Scripture says he was taller and more impressive than anyone else. To the natural eye, he looked like a champion. But Saul did not have a heart after God. He did not honor God's commands. He feared the people more than he feared the Lord. He made decisions based on popularity, power, and image instead of obedience and truth. In time, Saul's leadership brought confusion, fear, moral compromise, and spiritual decline to Israel. It took years and great suffering before the nation turned back to God's standard and God raised up David, a man after His own heart. Here is the parallel: Israel chose a leader like the world and suffered spiritually. America's largest cultural city has now made a choice based not on righteousness, but on ideology and image. God is showing us the pattern again. The point is not an individual leader. The point is spiritual drift. When a people reject God, their leadership choices reflect that rejection. The good news: In Scripture, after Saul came David. Judgment shook the nation awake, and God raised a remnant. He always does. Now… what do we do? 1. We must not fear. Isaiah 41:10 (NKJV) “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you… I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Explanation: Fear paralyzes the Church. God calls us to stand with courage. He will hold us up in turbulent times. 2. We must repent and humble ourselves. 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV) “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways…” “…then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” Explanation: Our hope is not in political outcomes… it is in repentance and returning to God. 3. We must discern the times. 1 Chronicles 12:32 (NKJV) “...the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do…” Explanation: The Church must not be spiritually asleep. We must discern and respond, not merely observe. 4. We must cry out like watchmen. Isaiah 62:6–7 (NKJV) “You who make mention of the Lord, do not keep silent… give Him no rest till He establishes…” Explanation: Watchmen do not complain… they cry out in prayer without ceasing. 5. We must expose and stand against false ideologies. 2 Corinthians 10:4–5 (NKJV) “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God…” “…casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God.” Explanation: We confront ideas and spiritual strongholds, not flesh and blood. 6. We must put on spiritual armor. Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV) “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers…” Explanation: This is not political warfare… it is spiritual warfare. 7. We must refuse compromise and hold the line. Romans 12:2 (NKJV) “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” Explanation: The Church cannot bow to cultural pressure. We must stand apart and walk in renewal. 8. We must preach Jesus boldly. Acts 4:12 (NKJV) “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven… by which we must be saved.” Explanation: Revival does not come through comfort or silence… it comes through bold proclamation of the Name of Jesus. This is not the moment to retreat. This is the time to: • watch • pray • repent • stand • disciple • preach Jesus • return to holiness • contend for revival Just like in the days of Saul and Samuel, God will raise Davids. He will strengthen His remnant. But we must awake. We must respond. We must stand.

Monday, 10 November 2025   Therefore he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. Matthew 14:7   “Whence with an oath He assented to give her what if she should ask” (CG).   In the previous verse, it was noted that Herod had a birthday celebration and that Herodias' daughter danced for him, pleasing him. Matthew continues the narrative, saying, “Whence with an oath He assented to give her what if she should ask.”   The word that confirms the oath is homologeó, to assent. It signifies “to voice the same conclusion” (HELPS Word Studies). What is probably intended is affirming a matter by repeating it, a common Hebrew form of speaking, such as, “I vow with a vow to do this thing,” or “Vowing with a vow, he confirmed his word.” In this case, the repetition is seen in the exchange as recorded in lengthier statements in Mark 6 –   “And when Herodias' daughter herself came in and danced, and pleased Herod and those who sat with him, the king said to the girl, ‘Ask me whatever you want, and I will give it to you.' 23 He also swore to her, ‘Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half my kingdom.'”   Herod was enamored with the girl's dancing and wanted to reward her for it publicly, something that would demonstrate his magnanimity to those around him. When assenting to his oath, he binds himself to whatever she asks. It is not a wise way of engaging in gift giving. However, being the king, the one who is offered something with such an oath would not be expected to abuse the request, thus eliciting the disfavor of the king.   Life application: In Scripture, people are seen to make vows that can be taken as rash and unwise. A glaring example of this is found in Judges 11 –   Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jephthah, and he passed through Gilead and Manasseh, and passed through Mizpah of Gilead; and from Mizpah of Gilead he advanced toward the people of Ammon. 30 And Jephthah made a vow to the Lord, and said, “If You will indeed deliver the people of Ammon into my hands, 31 then it will be that whatever comes out of the doors of my house to meet me, when I return in peace from the people of Ammon, shall surely be the Lord's, and I will offer it up as a burnt offering.” 32 So Jephthah advanced toward the people of Ammon to fight against them, and the Lord delivered them into his hands. 33 And he defeated them from Aroer as far as Minnith—twenty cities—and to Abel Keramim, with a very great slaughter. Thus the people of Ammon were subdued before the children of Israel. 34 When Jephthah came to his house at Mizpah, there was his daughter, coming out to meet him with timbrels and dancing; and she was his only child. Besides her he had neither son nor daughter. 35 And it came to pass, when he saw her, that he tore his clothes, and said, “Alas, my daughter! You have brought me very low! You are among those who trouble me! For I have given my word to the Lord, and I cannot go back on it.”   Jephthah made a vow that, unfortunately, cost him the life of his daughter. He understood that despite the consequences of his vow, it was one made to the Lord, and it had to be fulfilled. The reason for this story being included in Scripture is to make a point about what God is doing in redemptive history concerning salvation and His favor or rejection of a particular people group.   To understand what is going on in that passage, you can refer to the Superior Word sermons on Judges 11. As for our words today, a point made by Jesus and which is repeated by both Paul and James is that when we speak, we are to refrain from making vows concerning such matters.   Instead, we are to let our Yes be Yes and our No be No. In other words, when we say we are going to do or not do something, our integrity should be so accepted by others that they know we will perform our word. Additional vows and oaths are unnecessary and will detract from what the Lord expects of us.   This does not mean that we are not to make any oath at all. In society, we must swear oaths in court, on legal documents (with our signature, for example), etc. But when speaking, we should refrain from people thinking there is any necessity to go beyond a simply stated affirmation concerning our intent.   Lord God, help us to be people of integrity where others can trust our words, taking them at face value. Help us to remember that when we speak, You are being evaluated through the performance and accomplishment of what we say. Help us to remember this and follow through, to Your glory. Amen.

In this Q&R episode, Hunter and Autumn revisit the opening chapters of Silas Marner to discuss a question about Silas's cataleptic fits—first seen as divine signs in Lantern Yard and later feared as witchcraft in Raveloe—and how they mirror his spiritual paralysis after betrayal.Another listener asks what Silas Marner reveals about the relationship between faith and community. When Silas loses his faith in Lantern Yard, he also loses his sense of belonging. In Scripture's conception, faith and belonging to the body of Christ are inseparable realities. Along the way, Hunter and Autumn respond to a question about casting lots, discuss the theme of divine sovereignty in the novel, and reflect on the impact of a life that seeks to trust God in and out of season.

In Scripture, God reveals Himself in many ways, and each time He's given a name that describes the character trait He's just revealed to His people. In Foundations, we're going to look at the name El Qanna.Your support sends the gospel to every corner of Australia through broadcast, online and print media: https://www.vision.org.au/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Scripture, God always redirects his people to live according to His perfect will. His primary method was through specific individuals attuned to hear God's voice. These were the Prophets. In this series, Pastor Matt will take us through some unique stories of the Prophets' lives and how their actions and words continue to influence us today.

What's so special about the 7th day of the week (Sunday)?  Or is it the 1st day of the week (Sunday?)  How do you see it? In Scripture, God sees the 7th day as an unbelievable day of joy, rest, play, and beauty!  The Sabbath Day is closely associated with another Hebrew work 'SHALOM.'

Family traditions are powerful threads that connect generations — reminders of who we are, where we’ve come from, and how God has worked in our story. In today’s prayer devotional, Rachael Adams, host of The Love Offering, reflects on her grandmother “Munder” and the beautiful ways her faith and love continue to shape family gatherings even after she’s gone. Through recipes, celebrations, and stories, Rachael’s family keeps alive both her memory and the message of God’s goodness. In Scripture, God Himself established holy days and traditions so His people would continually remember His faithfulness. These rhythms of remembrance weren’t just rituals — they were living testimonies passed from one generation to the next. As we create and continue our own family traditions, we, too, can honor God by making Him the center of our celebrations. May this prayer inspire you to celebrate God’s work in your life, preserve your faith heritage, and intentionally pass it on — so that future generations will know and love the Lord. Today's Bible Reading:“This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come you shall celebrate it as a festival to the LORD—a lasting ordinance.” – Exodus 12:14

What does it mean to live with true contentment? For many, contentment feels just out of reach—always tied to the next raise, the next purchase, or the next season of life. In Scripture, we are called to a deeper, lasting contentment, one that doesn’t depend on circumstances but on Christ Himself. On the next Faith & Finance Live, Rob West talks about trusting God, the One Who provides. Then, it’s on to your calls. That’s Faith & Finance Live, where biblical wisdom meets today’s finances—weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How could God possibly care about all these people? The thought hit me as I stepped off a busy train platform in a crowded city, thousands of miles from home. I was a teenager traveling abroad for the first time, and I was overwhelmed by the size of the world around me. I felt small by comparison and wondered how God could love so many people. I had yet to understand the broad reach of God’s perfect love. In Scripture, the prophet Jonah couldn’t fathom this either. When Jonah finally obeyed God’s call to preach repentance to the city of Nineveh, the capital of the brutal Assyrian Empire that had oppressed his native Israel, Jonah didn’t want God to forgive them. But the city did repent, and when God didn’t destroy them, Jonah was angry. God provided shelter for Jonah through a fast-growing plant but then took his shade away, which angered him all the more. Jonah complained, but God responded, “You have been concerned about this plant . . . . And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people?” (Jonah 4:10-11). God is so great that He’s able to care deeply for those who are far from Him. His love goes to the lengths of the cross and empty tomb of Jesus to meet our ultimate need. His greatness manifests itself in goodness, and He longs to draw us near.

In Scripture, God always redirects his people to live according to His perfect will. His primary method was through specific individuals attuned to hear God's voice. These were the Prophets. In this series, Pastor Matt will take us through some unique stories of the Prophets' lives and how their actions and words continue to influence us today.

In Scripture, water is a symbol. Yeshua referred to living water, a source of inflowing and outflowing movement. If we are fatigued spiritually, do we run to the Lord's living water?

Thursday, 9 October 2025   Another parable He spoke to them: “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened.” Matthew 13:33   “Another parable He presented them, ‘The kingdom of the heavens, it is like leaven which a woman, having taken, she concealed in flour – three measures – until it all, it leavened'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus finished the parable of the mustard seed. With it complete, Matthew records, “Another parable He presented them.”   As noted previously. It is unknown if these parables were all stated at the same time or if Matthew is recording them in a categorical fashion. Either way, however, Jesus begins the Parable, saying, “The kingdom of the heavens, it is like leaven.”   Here is a new word, zumé, ferment, as in boiling up. Thus, it refers to leaven, which causes a change, usually through rising (as in bread) or some other type of reaction, such as in the process of making beer.   The meaning of the parable is highly debated. However, yeast is consistently given as a type of spreading evil, and thus sin. This is true in both testaments, either typologically or figuratively –   “Your glorying is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? 7 Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us. 8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.” 1 Corinthians 5:6-8   Many commentators feel that this parable must be an exception to that. If so, it would be an extremely unusual outlier. As for Jesus' words, He continues, saying, “which a woman, having taken, she concealed in flour.”   Here is another new word, egkruptó, to conceal. The idea is concealing through incorporation. The woman takes the leaven and incorporates it into the dough. When looking at it, no one would even know that it was leavened. Only when the effects are realized after the reaction would it be known that it was in there.   Putting yeast into flour will inevitably result in the dough being affected. Yeast was never to be presented to the Lord in the sacrifices and offerings of Israel, with but two exceptions (Leviticus 7:13 & Leviticus 23:17).   Those exceptions were specifically given in typology, indicating that because of Jesus, the redeemed are considered acceptable to God even though they are sinful people. As for the leavened dough, Jesus continues, saying, “three measures – until it all, it leavened.”   In Scripture, the number three “...stands for that which is solid, real, substantial, complete, and entire” (Bullinger). It is the number of divine perfection. Thus, there is the notion of divine perfection in what Jesus is stating concerning this picture of the kingdom of the heavens.   Concerning the parable, as noted above, the meaning continues to be debated. Most commentators agree that the words are the only exception to the spiritual meaning of leaven. Rather than it being a negative thing, it is taken as a positive thing, as if the leaven itself is an instrument for good.   But this seems contrary. Leaven consistently signifies sin throughout the Old Testament, including the two times it is presented to the Lord. It is then used in this manner by Jesus in the gospels, such as Matthew 16:6. It is later used this way by Paul in 1 Corinthians and Galatians.   Despite this, commentators waffle on the meaning here because of the association that is made with the kingdom of the heavens. “How could the influence of sin be seen in the kingdom of the heavens?” But for the sake of consistency and evaluating it from that perspective, meaning taking it as a picture of sin, what is going on that could allow this?    What seems a suitable explanation is that the woman is a picture of the wisdom of God, something particularly highlighted in Proverbs 1. Jesus uses that idea of the feminine wisdom in Luke 7 –   “For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.' 34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' 35 But wisdom is justified by all her children.” Luke 7:33-35   Jesus came to save sinners. He specifically notes them in these words as those He associated with. The three measures indicate the entire course of the kingdom of the heavens, where everything is substantial, complete, entire, etc. There is the notion of divine perfection having been attained.   How is sin realized? Through law. Without law, there is no imputation of sin. Even if sin is worked through the entire body of Christ, something that is an undeniable fact, it has been dealt with. Therefore, the picture Christ is painting is that of a body of believers, all stained with sin, and yet acceptable to God, as is clearly represented in Leviticus 23:17.   To understand that typology, one should refer to the Superior Word sermon on that passage. The wisdom of God is that even among the sinful people of the world, where sin is fully worked into those who are a part of Christ's offering to Him, Christ's atonement, His covering, is sufficient to make them acceptable to God once again.   This is the substance of the gospel where Christ died for our sins (1 Corinthians 15:3). The explicit meaning is that we are sinners, have acknowledged that fact, and are asking for forgiveness through what Jesus has done. The others in the world are just as sinful, but they lack the suitable atonement to be acceptable to God. Therefore, they cannot be presented to Him as acceptable.   Only in Christ is sin dealt with. This is the wisdom of God –   “To me, who am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ; 10 to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places, 11 according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him.” Ephesians 3:8-12   Life application: Consistency in typology is an important part of understanding what is going on in the pages of Scripture. It is best not to divert from what is typologically set without a supportable purpose that can be clearly defined and explained.   It is true that one thing can have more than one meaning, such as the significance of water, but the symbolism is given by God in His word, not conjured up by us and then inserted into it.   Be careful not to manipulate what is presented in Scripture. Your time in the word will be much more fruitful and aligned with God's intent when typology is used consistently after care and thought have been taken to ensure it aligns with the rest of Scripture.   Lord God, help us to understand Your word. It is big and at times extremely complicated. May we not force things into it that don't belong there. Instead, open our minds to draw out from it what is present by You and then to consistently evaluate it from that point on. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.

In Scripture, God always redirects his people to live according to His perfect will. His primary method was through specific individuals attuned to hear God's voice. These were the Prophets. In this series, Pastor Matt will take us through some unique stories of the Prophets' lives and how their actions and words continue to influence us today.

In Scripture, God always redirects his people to live according to His perfect will. His primary method was through specific individuals attuned to hear God's voice. These were the Prophets. In this series, Pastor Matt will take us through some unique stories of the Prophets' lives and how their actions and words continue to influence us today.

Christian community and biblical fellowship are essential for spiritual growth and protection from the enemy. In Our Need for Each Other, Cindi McMenamin explores Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 and Proverbs 18:1 to show why God created us for connection, not isolation. Drawing wisdom from Scripture and even from caterpillars in North Africa, this episode highlights how linking with other believers strengthens our faith, shields us from spiritual attack, and helps us live out the “one another” commands of the Bible. ✨ Highlights Why “two are better than one” (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10) is vital for Christian living The dangers of isolation—how loneliness can open the door to shame, fear, and destructive thoughts Biblical wisdom from Proverbs 18:1 and the importance of community Lessons from creation: caterpillars traveling in unity as a model of spiritual defense Practical encouragement to link arms with other believers for spiritual survival and growth God’s design for fellowship, accountability, and interdependence in the body of Christ

In Scripture, God always redirects his people to live according to His perfect will. His primary method was through specific individuals attuned to hear God's voice. These were the Prophets. In this series, Pastor Matt will take us through some unique stories of the Prophets' lives and how their actions and words continue to influence us today.

Sunday, 21 September 2025   For the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, And their eyes they have closed, Lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, So that I should heal them.' Matthew 13:15   “For it thickened, the heart of this people And their ears, heavily they heard, And their eyes, they shut, Lest not they should behold – their eyes, And they should hear – their ears, And they should comprehend – the heart, And they should return, And I will heal them” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus began to quote a verse from Isaiah concerning the state of Israel, specifically their inability to understand or perceive the meaning of spiritual truth. Jesus continues that quote, which explains why this is so, beginning with, “For it thickened, the heart of this people.”   Here is a new word, pachunó, to thicken. It is found only here and in Acts 28:27 when Paul cites this same verse. The thickening is that of excess fat. Therefore, it signifies having a dull, insensitive heart.   In Scripture, the heart is the seat of moral preference. It is the spot where the decisions that reveal our true character are made. In the case of Israel, their collective heart had thickened to the point of being insensitive. Their moral preferences had become contrary to the will of the Lord. Next, He says, “And their ears, heavily they heard.”   Here is another new word, the adverb bareós. It signifies heavily. In this case, it is in a figurative sense. This word is also only found here and in Romans 28:27. The meaning is that it is as if something is hanging over their ears, their ears are full of wax, or for some other reason, and the sound entering them is dulled and difficult to understand. Next, it says, “And their eyes, they shut.”   A third new word, again only found here and in Romans 28:27, is seen, the verb kammuó. It is derived from kata, down, and muó, to shut the eyes. Thayer's Lexicon says, “the phrase designates the inflexible pertinacity and obstinacy of the Jews in their opposition to the gospel.”   This is correct. There is a sense of a purposeful shutting of the eyes to block out what God would otherwise reveal to them. These spiritual insensitivities permeated the Jewish society, but this was not the Lord's fault. This can be seen in the next words, which reveal that their state was a self-inflicted wound. Notice how the following three thoughts are stated in the reverse order of the previous three, forming a short chiasm –   “Lest not they should behold – their eyes, And they should hear – their ears, And they should comprehend – the heart.”   The meaning is that if the people were to redirect their moral senses, there would be a change. It isn't that the Lord caused this, but that they willingly closed themselves off from being able to properly discern the incoming information. With that noted, Jesus finishes the quote, saying –   “And they should return, And I will heal them.”   The future tense is purposeful. Each of these points is dependent on the actions of the people. That it is speaking of the nation and not merely individuals within the nation is to be understood from the plural, they, and then the singular, the heart, noted above.   Israel had purposefully closed itself off to God's salvation as seen in the coming of their Messiah. However, there is a day ahead when this will change. At that time, the Lord promises that they should return and He will heal them. This will be according to His design. Until that point, the words speak of a constant state of dullness in their collective eyes, ears, and heart.   Life application: The words of Isaiah, as quoted by Jesus and later Paul, clearly refer to free will in man. In the case of Israel, they are so closely knit as a people that, despite their amazingly diverse political, moral, and religious differences, they are still intimately united as a single body.   In this state, their almost universal rejection of Jesus is understandable. It is the crowd mentality that is strengthened through a close-knit family bond. Until this ubiquitous set of blinders is removed, the nation will continue in this state.   It is God's intent and purpose for Israel to be saved. And more, it is clearly prophesied in His word that this will take place. However, they need to be brought to such a calamitous state that they will finally look beyond themselves and their supposed superiority as a people to realize that they are nothing without Jesus.   Until that day, be careful to evangelize them, pray for them, and have pity on them. Without Jesus, they are a hopeless, rudderless ship in a sea of overwhelming sin. Only Jesus can rescue them from it.   Lord God, we pray for the people of Israel. Your word went to them first, and it was rejected. But You are not through with them. Your covenantal fidelity to fulfill the promises made to them in Your word will be realized. But Your word also tells us of disastrous days ahead for them. So, Lord, we lift them up to You for many to be saved before that day comes. Amen.

How is an "overseer" (1Ti 3:1) different from an elder or pastor? In Scripture, the terms overseer (KJV "bishop"), elder, and arguably also pastor, are used interchangeably. Hierarchy: There was no hierarchy of authority within the local church leadership team. No bishop was over the pastors, no senior pastor, no lead pastor, no pastor over the elders, no difference between pastor and elder. Paid vs Volunteer: In modern times, a "pastor" is a vocational leader, whereas elders are volunteer. This is not a biblical distinction. The tile "elder" brings out the fact that church leaders should embody maturity and wisdom ("elder" and "older" are from the same Germanic root). It is a state of being. The word "pastor" translates the Greek word for shepherd and brings out the leader's role in leading, feeding and protecting God's flock. The word "overseer" (3:1) highlights out the leader's job of managing, administrating, being sure things in the church are doing according to God's will. Plurality: The New Testament generally presents an ideal of a plurality of leaders in every congregation.

Have you ever wondered what it really means to be made in the image of God? Genesis 1:27 reveals that being created in God’s image isn’t just about our unique qualities—it’s about our purpose. In Scripture, God appoints humanity to represent His character and authority on earth, reflecting His love, order, and goodness wherever we go. This devotional explores the deeper biblical meaning behind being made in God’s likeness, revealing how we were created not only with identity but also with divine responsibility. Like royal ambassadors, we are called to bring light into darkness, peace into chaos, and God’s presence into every sphere of influence. ✨ Highlights Being made in God’s image goes beyond identity — It’s about living out God’s authority and reflecting His goodness. Purpose and responsibility — We are meant to represent God’s character wherever we live, work, and influence others. A biblical perspective — Ancient Near Eastern kings used statues to represent their reign; in the same way, we represent God’s kingdom on earth. Humanity’s mission — Bring God’s order, kindness, and love into the spaces around you, from your home to your community. Practical reflection — Use your unique gifts not only to build yourself up but to magnify God’s presence and goodness in the world.

SEP. 4, 2025How your faith can produce results (4)"[Abraham's] faith and his actions were working together." Jas 2:22 NIVIf you really believed God's Word concerning your situation, how would you act differently? Saying you believe is just the beginning; activating your faith means preparing for the answer to arrive.  Ask yourself, "If I really expected an answer to my prayers, how would I prepare for its arrival?"  In Scripture, Jesus gave His disciples this parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man... planted in his field...when it grows, it...becomes a tree'" (Mt 13:31-32 NIV). The farmer may sincerely believe he can produce a mustard tree, but nothing happens until he chooses the location, prepares the soil, plants the seed, and continually waters it. Once he does all those things, he can actively watch for its appearance. So, where do you start? (1) Pray for wisdom to make the right decisions (See Jas 1:5-7).(2) Plan your work, and work your plan. Aimless, passive waiting for the things to materialize without thoughtful, active involvement will prove disappointing and fruitless. God uses you as His partner. "We are labourers together with God" (1Co 3:9). (3) Break your plan into small, accomplishable action steps. (4) Don't wait for the fear to go or the faith to grow. Be prepared to take calculated, productive risks. Feel the fear and do it anyhow! (5) Start thanking God even before you can see the answer. And if you should miss the bull's-eye, remember the Revolutionary War militia's response: "Ready, aim, fire!" Adjust your aim-and fire again. "[Abraham's] faith and his actions were working together." And that's still the Bible formula for success.How your faith can produce results Activating your faithShare This DevotionalSend us a textSupport the showChanging Lives | Building Strong Family | Impacting Our Community For Jesus Christ!

Prayer that is urgent, bold, and desperate, the kind of prayer you pray when you are at the end of your own strength and need God to move in a mighty way. In Scripture, people often prayed drastically when facing impossible situations, and God answered powerfully.Psalm 46:1We are (LIVE) on our website's [Morning Devo] podcast now!:::: sELAH rADIO Network https://soulwinnerz.org ::::::::: https://live.soulwinnerz.org and we want to see who you are by simply clicking here https://chat.restream.io/fb :::::Join the Adult Bible Study: https://soulwinnerz.org/adultBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-blaze-bible-study--525630/support.

In Scripture, God always redirects his people to live according to His perfect will. His primary method was through specific individuals attuned to hear God's voice. These were the Prophets. In this series, Pastor Matt will take us through some unique stories of the Prophets' lives and how their actions and words continue to influence us today.

In Scripture, God always redirects his people to live according to His perfect will. His primary method was through specific individuals attuned to hear God's voice. These were the Prophets. In this series, Pastor Matt will take us through some unique stories of the Prophets' lives and how their actions and words continue to influence us today.

In Scripture, we are called to be both wise savers and generous givers—but holding those two together can feel like tension. How do we avoid fear on one side and foolishness on the other? On the next Faith & Finance Live, Rob West and Dr. Shane Enete show how these two principles actually go hand in hand. Then, it’s on to your questions on various financial topics. That’s Faith & Finance Live —where biblical wisdom meets today’s finances, weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ability or Dependability? This week join Aaron with special guest Sean Butler as they unpack the Faithful fruit. In Scripture, the concept of faith is often misunderstood as mere belief or mental agreement. However, a deeper look at both the Hebrew (אָמֵן – aman, H539) and Greek (πιστεύω – pisteuō, G4100) roots reveals a fuller picture: faith is trustworthiness, reliability, and dependability—not just belief in God, but faithfulness to God. “The just shall live by his faith.” – Habakkuk 2:4 In both the Old and New Testaments, faith is consistently shown through action and loyalty. It's not enough to acknowledge God's existence; true faith manifests as consistent obedience and unwavering commitment to God's ways. This is why Abraham was counted righteous—not because he believed God existed, but because he trusted and obeyed Him. Moses, too, is called faithful in all God's house—not because of what he believed, but because of how he lived. Even Jesus commended individuals for their faith when He saw their actions—like the friends who lowered the paralytic through the roof (Matt. 9:2) or the Canaanite woman whose persistence led to her daughter's healing (Matt. 15:28). A faithful husband is not judged by his beliefs, but by his consistency, loyalty, and actions. Likewise, God calls His people to demonstrate faith by their dependability—by living lives that reflect His character. Faithfulness is Dependability ● Keeping commitments, even when it's hard. ● Trusting God's Word enough to live by it. ● Showing up consistently—for others and for God. ● Obeying when it's inconvenient. ● Being loyal to God's Kingdom over worldly pressures. Faith is more than ability. It's not about being strong, talented, or capable in ourselves—it's about being reliable and loyal to God, just as He is to us: "Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; He is the faithful God." – Deuteronomy 7:9 Faithfulness is the Victory In the end, it's not ability but faithfulness that overcomes the world. “This is the victory that overcomes the world—even our faith.” – 1 John 5:4

In Scripture, God always redirects his people to live according to His perfect will. His primary method was through specific individuals attuned to hear God's voice. These were the Prophets. In this series, Pastor Matt will take us through some unique stories of the Prophets' lives and how their actions and words continue to influence us today.

Everyone longs for life. And most people don't just want to survive, but to thrive, to know life to its fullest. A Biblical way to say it is that people long for blessing. In Scripture, to bless is to bestow life upon and God, the blessed one, the source of all life, all power and good, is the one who blesses us. The book of Genesis is fundamentally about life and blessing. If you want blessing in your life, you need the message of this book. Listen as Pastor Luke Herche returns to a sermon series on the book of Genesis, re-introducing the book and showing that Genesis is the beginning of God's story to bless the nations through the promised child. Pastor Luke exhorts us to believe the promise, give thanks for present blessing, and wait expectantly for what is to come as he walks us through the beginning of the story of blessing, the content of the story of blessing, and our response to the story of blessing. Part of a series on the book of Genesis. From Sunday Worship, August 17, 2025. ------------------------------- Want to go deeper? Take some time to reflect on the sermon with the following questions: What do you think about the idea that we must understand Genesis (and, indeed, every book of the Bible), in light of the whole story? What are the strengths of that approach to the Bible? What are the dangers? Where do you see blessing and curse play out in your own life, experience, or context? What do these things look like “at ground level”? Which do you find to be the most difficult, believing God's promises, giving thanks in the moment, or waiting hopefully for what is to come? Why do you think that is? Jesus takes the curse we deserve at the cross and receives the blessing we need in his resurrection. How does that enable you to give thanks for present blessings even as you wait for good things to come? ------------------------------- allsoulspca.org All Souls (Urbana, IL) is a part of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), a Christian, Reformed denomination with historic and theological roots in the Protestant Reformation.

In Scripture, our faith journeys are often likened to a race—a test of endurance and resilience in our pursuit of Christlikeness, the ultimate prize. But in moments when we fall short and feel tempted to give in to discouragement, how can we continue to persevere in faith? It's easy to be overwhelmed by our shortcomings and challenges, especially when the goal feels distant. Yet, if we draw strength from the example of those who have gone before us and keep our eyes fixed on Christ—turning to Him in our trials—we can learn to endure alongside the Author and Perfecter of our faith. Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-4 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. God Disciplines His Children 4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.

     The Lord directs us to obedience and tests us by providing opportunities to follow His Word, whether through His commands, His provisions, or the circumstances He ordains (Ex 16:4; Deut 8:2; 13:3; Judg 2:21-22; 3:4; John 6:5-6; Heb 11:17; Rev 2:10). In Scripture, testing is consistently purposeful, designed to reveal the true condition of our hearts, whether we will love and obey Him above all else (Deut 8:2; 13:3). Like a refiner's fire, divine testing burns away weakness and exposes sin so that our faith may be strengthened and our character purified (Psa 66:10; Prov 17:3).      Testing, however, is not confined to adversity but also arises through prosperity. Israel was warned that when they entered the land and experienced abundance, they must not forget the Lord (Deut 8:11-16). Agur likewise prayed for moderation, recognizing that riches could lead to denial of God (Prov 30:8-9). Paul issued a similar caution, warning that “those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap” (1 Tim 6:9). In this sense, blessings themselves are tests, exposing whether our hearts will remain humble in gratitude to God or whether abundance will foster pride and forgetfulness.      Through both trial and blessing, the Lord works to produce endurance, humility, and godliness in us, shaping us to walk faithfully and bear fruit to His glory (Ex 16:4; Jam 1:2-4). Divine testing is God's means of refining us so that our faith may grow strong (Rom 4:19-21), our character be strengthened, and our lives conformed to His will. As growing Christians, we should strive to be obedient-to-the-Word believers who are daily learning and living His Word (1 Pet 2:2; Jam 1:22). Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div.

In Scripture, the “womb” and the “belly” are more than anatomical terms—they are profound symbols of God's work in creation, salvation, and judgment. In this episode, Womb of Mercy, Belly of Judgment, we explore the biblical imagery and theological depth behind these often-overlooked words. From the womb of Sarah to the virgin womb of Mary, from Jonah in the belly of the fish to Christ in the “heart of the earth,” the Bible uses these images to reveal the mystery of life, death, and divine intervention. We'll trace how God opens wombs to bring forth promised life and how He uses the belly—often associated with hunger, idolatry, or even the grave—to reveal His judgment and mercy. Join us as we journey through Genesis, the Psalms, the Prophets, and the Gospels to discover how the hidden places of the womb and belly point us to the Gospel: that from the depths of judgment, God brings forth new birth, and from barrenness, He brings redemption. ----more---- Host: Fr. Jason Braaten Special Guest: Fr. Karl Fabrizius ----more---- Become a Patron! You can subscribe to the Journal here: https://www.gottesdienst.org/subscribe/ You can read the Gottesblog here: https://www.gottesdienst.org/gottesblog/ You can support Gottesdienst here: https://www.gottesdienst.org/make-a-donation/ As always, we, at The Gottesdienst Crowd, would be honored if you would Subscribe, Rate, and Review. Thanks for listening and thanks for your support. 

In Scripture, God always redirects his people to live according to His perfect will. His primary method was through specific individuals attuned to hear God's voice. These were the Prophets. In this series, Pastor Matt will take us through some unique stories of the Prophets' lives and how their actions and words continue to influence us today.

In Scripture, God always redirects his people to live according to His perfect will. His primary method was through specific individuals attuned to hear God's voice. These were the Prophets. In this series, Pastor Matt will take us through some unique stories of the Prophets' lives and how their actions and words continue to influence us today.

Laughter is a gift from God—a gentle reminder that even in times of challenge, joy is still possible. A shared smile, a burst of laughter, or a lighthearted moment can lift the heaviest heart and renew our spirit. In Scripture we read, “A joyful heart is good medicine”. (cf. Proverbs 17:22) In moments of distress or sorrow, ask the Lord for the grace to smile again—to embrace hope, healing, and even a little humor when the time is right. Laughter doesn't erase life's burdens—it helps to carry them. So, make room for joy. Cherish moments of levity. And give thanks to God, who walks with us through every moment—with love, and strength, and yes, even a gentle smile.

Daily Dose of Hope July 28, 2025   Scripture - Luke 1:1-25   Prayer:  Everlasting Father, We thank you that you are a God of hope.  You are a God who keeps his promises.  You are a God who always has our best interest in mind.  Forgive us for those times that we want things to go the way we want things to go.  Fill us with your wisdom and discernment.  Help us try to think about things from a more eternal perspective.  How difficult that is for us!  Lord, we submit to you our lives, our families, our jobs, our burdens, our physical bodies.  We give them to you and we trust you.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we begin the book of Luke.   Luke is considered a Jewish Gospel.  There are connections to the Old Testament throughout, specifically the fulfillment of God's promises and these promises are bigger than anyone expected.  We will highlight those as we walk through the text.  The point, though, is that the God who sent Jesus is the same God who operated throughout the Old Testament.  There is a continuity with the nation of Israel but now salvation in Jesus is being offered to everyone.  Luke is making a specific point here.   Let's talk about the author, Luke himself.  Who was he?  He gives us a brief intro in Luke, saying he is writing to a man named Theophilius, a name that means lover of God.  Some scholars say he is writing to generic believers but most think Theophilius was a specific person.  We just don't know much about him.  Luke also states that he has done a lot of research into the things that have happened but he doesn't tell us a lot about himself.   What we know is that Luke was a physician and a Gentile.  He is actually the only Gentile to write any portion of the New Testament. Paul briefly alludes to this in Colossians 4, when he makes a distinction between Luke and other colleagues “of the circumcision,” meaning the Jews.  Paul calls him the beloved physician.  Actually, while Luke doesn't name himself as author of Luke and the book of Acts, Paul refers to Luke several times.  Besides the Colossians reference, he also mentions Luke in Philemon and 2 Timothy.  Luke writes about Paul in Acts quite extensively and mentions himself a few times in subtle ways.   In today's reading, we get the first portion of the story of Zechariah.  Zechariah is a priest from the hill country near Jerusalem. Two weeks out of each year his division of priests was on duty at the temple in Jerusalem. Of course, this is where we find Zechariah faithfully going about his ordinary priestly duties. But this year, Zechariah is chosen by lot (which means he is chosen randomly, like drawing a name out of a hat) to be the one to go into the sanctuary and offer the incense offering.  So, up until this point, all is pretty ordinary and expected.  But then Scripture says in v. 11-12, Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. Whenever we read about an angel appearing to people in the Bible, they are usually afraid – angels are fierce beings.   The angel tells Zechariah that his wife, Elizabeth, will get pregnant and have a son who will be a source of joy and gladness for them.  This son will be filled with the Holy Spirit and set apart by God for a special purpose – to prepare the way of the Lord, to make people ready to receive Jesus Christ.   But this clearly catches Zechariah off guard.  He isn't convinced; in fact, he is skeptical.  So Zechariah asks the angel, “Are you really sure?  I mean my wife is kind of old.”  He is a man who has probably had years of heartbreak and disappointment. You see, Zechariah is married to Elizabeth (Elizabeth is the cousin of Mary, who becomes the mother of Jesus) and Zechariah and Elizabeth have never been able to have kids.  Now, they have gotten to the point in which they are too old to conceive.  Zechariah will soon be forced to retire from the priesthood.  Life surely hasn't happened the way he planned.  So what happens?  V.19-20, The angel said to him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their appointed time.”   Zechariah is in the temple for a while and then when he comes out, he cannot speak.  The people assume he has seen some kind of vision because he is just making signs to them but no words are coming out of his mouth.  Nevertheless, the speechless Zechariah goes home to his wife Elizabeth, and she gets pregnant.  And Elizabeth sees the Lord's hand in these events. She exclaims in verse 25, “This is what the Lord has done for me when he looked favorably on me to take away the disgrace I have endured among my people.”   Not to spoil the story, although I figure most of you have heard it before, but Zechariah does not speak again until his son, John, is born.  This is a story about a miracle, a birth that is not just unexpected but seemingly impossible.  But it's also about how God keeps his promises.  God is faithful.  And while this is a portion of the Christmas story that we may often gloss over, it's really critical for us.  Remembering how God has proven faithful in the past—even when all hope seemed lost—builds confidence that God can be trusted in the present and the future.   There are so many times in our lives when problems seem overwhelming and when it's hard to see a way forward, when it seems like things aren't going as planned, when it feels like all hope for the future has reached a dead end.  And maybe that's where you are right now.  It's possible that you look at your life and you think, “This wasn't what I expected, God.”  Maybe you are dealing with health issues or a loved one is ill or in pain.  Maybe you are crippled by depression or anxiety.  Maybe there is a broken relationship or a financial burden or you simply feel empty.  Maybe, like Zechariah, you are feeling discouraged and a bit hopeless.    I'll be the first to tell you that I don't understand God's ways or God's timing.  But this is what I can say…the story that we read about in God's Word shows us that God is always faithful.  God is never late.  We may doubt him, we may get mad at him, we may defy him, but God will be faithful.  In Scripture, we meet a God for whom there are no dead ends – detours perhaps – but not dead ends.  You see, we meet a God who is always working for our good, even when we make a mess of things, a Jesus who specializes in making a way in the wilderness, opening up a future when none seems possible.  If you ask him, he will show up in surprising, unexpected ways; maybe not the ways we want him to, but he will be there.  You see, with Jesus, there is always HOPE for a way forward.  Always, always, always.   More tomorrow.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

In Scripture, to “find” is never mere discovery.It is encounter—a turning of the text where mercy meets rebellion,where favor walks hand-in-hand with wrath.In Gerasa, the people find the healed man—clothed, sane, silent—and they tremble.He is a mirror, a testimony they cannot bear.Restoration becomes a scandal. Mercy, a threat.As well it should be.They send away the one who scattered their demonsbecause he disturbed their peace.The Scriptures whisper:To find a man is to stand at the edge of wrath—to be weighed, watched.Will you be spared?In Hebrew: to find, to meet, to expose.In Arabic: to find—yes—but also to be found out.To be found wandering.To be guided.The disbeliever finds God waiting—and no one can shield him.Every expectation collapses under the weight of divine wisdom.Everything found is double-edged:Grace, if received.Judgment, if refused.So—finders, beware.The light of instruction burns.This week, I discuss Luke 8:35-37.Show Notesεὑρίσκω (heuriskō) / מ־צ־א (mem–ṣade–aleph) / و–ج–د (wāw–jīm–dāl)find; reach; meet accidentally; obtain, achieveFOUND THE MANThe people “find” the healed man—מ־צ־א (mem–ṣade–aleph)—and become afraid, encountering divine judgment. He stands as a sign of both judgment and mercy: restored and sent out as a witness. In Scripture, finding a man—whether by apparent chance, deliberate search, or divine appointment—often precedes divine entrapment: a moment of redirection, confrontation, or exposure.Their encounter with this man echoes a biblical pattern in which finding a man signals the onset of divine action.Joseph, found wandering, is sent on a path of suffering to deliver many from famine (Genesis 37:15).“A man found [וַיִּמְצָאֵהוּ (wayyimṣaʾēhu)] him, and behold, he was wandering in the field; and the man asked him, ‘What are you looking for?'”Benjamin, found out by a planted cup, exposes guilt but leads to submission and reconciliation (Genesis 44:12).“He searched, beginning with the oldest and ending with the youngest, and the cup was found [וַיִּמָּצֵא (wayyimmāṣēʾ)] in Benjamin's sack.”The prophet, found under the oak, faces judgment for disobedience (1 Kings 13:14). The “finding” (מ־צ־א) here is a trap—not for the wicked, but for the prophet who fails to remain obedient to God's direct command.“He went after the man of God and found [וַיִּמְצָאֵהוּ (wayyimṣaʾēhu)] him sitting under an oak…”“You shall not eat bread, nor drink water, nor return by the way you came.” (1 Kings 13:9)“So he went back with him and ate bread in his house and drank water.” (v. 19)Jonah, who finds a ship, is caught in a storm of God's judgment—and becomes a reluctant prophet (Jonah 1:3).“But Jonah rose up to flee… and found [וַיִּמְצָא (wayyimṣaʾ)] a ship going to Tarshish…”FOUND FAVORIn Luke 8:35–37, after Jesus casts out Legion, the people come and find the man “sitting at Jesus' feet, clothed and in his right mind.” Rather than rejoicing in the mercy extended, they are seized with fear. They do not celebrate the restoration but instead beg Jesus to leave. This rebellion—typical of the עֵדָה ʿ(ēdāh) that Jesus scatters throughout the Gospel of Luke—reveals a tragic irony: grace is offered, but rejected.This moment echoes a recurring biblical pattern centered around the root מ־צ־א (mem–ṣade–aleph), which signifies finding, meeting, or encountering. When someone “finds favor” [מָצָא חֵן (māṣāʾ ḥēn)] in God's sight, it often leads to intercession on behalf of others—even the wicked:Abraham pleads for Sodom upon having found favor (Genesis 18:3).“He said, ‘My Lord, if now I have found [מָצָאתִי (māṣāʾtī)] favor in your sight, please do not pass your servant by.'”Lot, though surrounded by destruction, acknowledges divine mercy (Genesis 19:19).“Now behold, your servant has found [מָצָא (māṣāʾ)] favor in your sight, and you have magnified your zealous care…”Moses repeatedly intercedes for Israel's rebellious collective after finding favor in God's sight (Numbers 11:11).“Why have you been so hard on your servant? And why have I not found [לֹא מָצָאתִי (lōʾ māṣāʾtī)] favor in your sight, that you have laid the burden of all this people on me?”In the golden calf incident, no favor is found in God's sight—only consequence. Yet, Moses stands in the breach and intercedes (Exodus 34:9).“If now I have found [מָצָאתִי (māṣāʾtī)] favor in your sight…”Esther, having found favor, risks her life to save her people (Esther 8:5).“If it pleases the king, and if I have found [מָצָאתִי (māṣāʾtī)] favor before him, and the matter seems proper to the king…”In all these examples, those who found favor stood in the breach for others—unlike the people of the Gerasenes, who reject the one who intercedes against the Roman Legion. Their response echoes Israel's rebellion in the wilderness, when the people grumbled against Moses and said:“If only the Lord had killed us in the land of Egypt when we sat by pots of meat and ate our fill of bread! But you have brought us out into this wilderness to make us all die of hunger.” (Exodus 16:3).Though they had been delivered, they longed for the security of slavery rather than trust in the provision of God. So too in Luke 8, the people, confronted with divine mercy in the healed man, recoil in fear and send Jesus away.Bloody cowards.They cannot bear the grace that unmasks their allegiance to the 1%—the settled urban elites who love injustice. As in the wilderness, favor is offered—but refused. Grace stands before them, confronting their false peace—and they choose Pharaoh. Cowardice draped in civility. In the end, refusing to take a stand is the most wicked stand of all. May their dinner parties be found worthy of the price.FOUND JUDGMENTThe people “find” judgment—מ־צ־א (mem–ṣade–aleph)—not by seeking it, but by standing in the way of divine mercy. In Luke 8:35–37, those who witness the healed man respond with fear rather than submission. The grace shown to the possessed becomes a sign of judgment for those who reject it. This reversal echoes throughout Scripture: to “find” is to be found out by God—exposed, weighed, measured, and confronted. “Finding” unmasks guilt, and divine justice follows swiftly—even when grace has already been extended:Egypt, the symbol of empire and wealth, is found stripped bare—exposed in its powerlessness before God. The Egyptians, found lacking, are emptied of silver and reduced to servitude (Genesis 47:14).“And Joseph collected all the money that was found [הַנִּמְצָא (hannimṣāʾ)] in the land of Egypt…”A thief is found in possession of stolen goods, and the act triggers justice (Exodus 22:4).“If what he stole is actually found [נִמְצָא (nimṣāʾ)] alive in his possession… he shall pay double.”The people ga...

In Scripture, Zephaniah's warnings of judgment against those who rejected God's authority show how their downfall was the result of aligning with lesser powers. Yet amidst the doom and gloom, Zephaniah offers a message of hope, one rooted in God's promise to restore, redeem, and reign once again as the true King. In this message, Pastor Scott Conner shares how only when we remove false rulers from the throne of our hearts and return to the rightful King, Jesus, can we experience true restoration, peace, and purpose.

In Scripture, Zephaniah's warnings of judgment against those who rejected God's authority show how their downfall was the result of aligning with lesser powers. Yet amidst the doom and gloom, Zephaniah offers a message of hope, one rooted in God's promise to restore, redeem, and reign once again as the true King. In this message, Pastor Scott Conner shares how only when we remove false rulers from the throne of our hearts and return to the rightful King, Jesus, can we experience true restoration, peace, and purpose.

Fasting is having a resurgence in popularity in fitness circles right now, particularly intermittent fasting. In Scripture, we see Jesus warn us to beware of practicing our righteousness before people. The central section of the Sermon on the Mount focuses on Christian Piety and our religious practices: giving to the poor, prayer, and fasting. All of this is the proclamation of the inbreaking of Christ's Kingdom that he established in the incarnation. It is present, and yet will come in fullness. This is what it means to live as citizens of that greater kingdom. This Sunday, we will be in Matthew 6:16-18 as we focus on fasting and what it looks like to fast in Christ's Kingdom. ------------------------------------------- Connect with us on Social Media ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads⁠ | ⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠Vimeo⁠------------------------------------------- Download our App⁠Apple App Store⁠ | ⁠Google Play Store⁠

Why does thinking of God as a “judge” often make us uncomfortable? This important snapshot of God might not look like what we think it looks like. In Scripture, we find a Judge who is good—one who desires the restoration of all things, justice for the oppressed, and the final end to violence. God's love and justice are not opposed to each other. They are intimately and integrally intertwined.

In this message, Coleton explores what it means to receive the kingdom of God like a child. Using the moment when Jesus welcomes little children while His disciples try to turn them away, Coleton highlights Jesus' radical teaching: only childlike people can experience the life of the kingdom. Coleton frames the teaching around three key qualities children naturally possess, which Jesus wants His followers to imitate—not childish immaturity, but childlike virtues: ⸻ 1. Be Dependent Like a Child Children depend on their parents for everything—food, comfort, direction, and provision. Coleton humorously illustrates this with a barrage of questions his son Teddy asks in just a few minutes, revealing how constant and uninhibited children are in their need. In contrast to earthly parents who eventually encourage independence, God never asks us to grow out of needing Him. Jesus invites us to stay needy, to come to Him when weary, and to cast all our cares on Him (Matt 11:28; 1 Peter 5:7). The quality of life we experience is directly connected to who or what we depend on—Jesus or ourselves. “Whoever or whatever we depend on determines the kingdom or kind of life we experience.” ⸻ 2. Trust Like a Child Children are quick to believe. Coleton recalls how children after seeing Peter Pan jumped off beds thinking they could fly. While not endorsing naivety, he urges us to trust Jesus like that—not because the logic always checks out, but because He is trustworthy. The Bible is full of people who experienced the kingdom of God because they took God at His word: Noah, Abraham, Moses, Joshua, Mary, and more. They didn't understand everything, but they obeyed—and saw God move. Many of Jesus' commands—love your enemies, forgive freely, give sacrificially—don't make sense to the adult mind. But childlike trust leads to experiencing divine results. The more we rely on our understanding, the less we see of God's kingdom. ⸻ 3. Submit to His Authority Like a Child Children live under authority. Their lives are shaped by rules and boundaries from parents. Coleton points out that while kids grow up and grow out of their parents' authority, we are never meant to grow out of God's authority. In Scripture, the people who experience miracles are those who do what Jesus says. Submission isn't loss—it's gain. Life under Jesus' authority leads to peace, joy, and blessing. “If you will let me lead you, submit to my authority—you will experience my rule and reign over your life. My rule and reign is peace and joy and love and hope.” ⸻ Final Contrast: The Childlike vs. The Adultlike Mark's story ends with a rich young man who walks away from Jesus sad because he can't be childlike. He can't depend, trust, or submit. He clings to his wealth and control. In contrast, the children in the story are scooped up into Jesus' arms. They receive more than they came for—His love, His blessing, and His presence. The message is clear: you can walk away sad or walk away scooped into the arms of Jesus. It depends on whether you're willing to be childlike. ⸻ Discussion Questions     1.    Dependence:     •    What's one area of your life where you're trying to be independent when Jesus is asking you to depend on Him?     •    What would it look like to cast your cares on Him this week?     2.    Trust:     •    Is there a command from Jesus that doesn't make sense to you right now—but you feel called to obey it anyway?     •    What keeps you from trusting Jesus fully?     3.    Authority:     •    Where in your life are you resisting Jesus' authority?     •    How might your life be different if you submitted that area to Him?     4.    Childlikeness vs. Adultlikeness:     •    In what ways have you grown out of childlike faith?     •    What would it look like to return to a posture of humility, dependence, and obedience?     5.    Jesus on the Cross:     •    How does seeing Jesus on the cross give you confidence to depend on, trust in, and submit to Him? ⸻ Author Quotes Used in the Sermon “After the first production of the play, Peter Pan, The Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up (1904), I had to add something to the play at the request of parents. It was that no one would be able to fly until they received fairy dust. This was because many children had gone home and tried flying from their beds and needed surgical attention.” – J. M. Barrie ⸻ Scriptures Referenced     •    Mark 10:13–16 – Let the children come; receive the kingdom like a child.     •    Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me… I will give you rest.”     •    1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast your cares on Him…”     •    Philippians 4:6 – “Don't worry, pray about everything.”     •    Luke 18:1 – “Pray and never give up.”     •    John 15:5 – “Apart from Me, you can do nothing.”     •    Isaiah 40:29–31 – “Those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength.”     •    Hebrews 4:16 – “Approach the throne of grace with confidence…”     •    James 1:5 – “If anyone lacks wisdom, let him ask God…”     •    Proverbs 3:5 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart…”     •    Matthew 5 – “Love your enemies.”     •    Ephesians 4 – “Forgive as Christ forgave you.” ⸻ Closing Challenge Where in your life are you too adult for the kingdom of God? Jesus is inviting you back into His arms—into a life of dependence, trust, and obedience. The path to joy, freedom, and blessing is not found by being stronger, smarter, or more self-reliant—but by becoming childlike once again.

When was the last time God spoke to you? Has He ever spoken to you? This podcast is an interview between Eric Metaxas, the interviewer and Papa Tom Clark, the interviewee. In Scripture we are told there will come a time at the end of the age, when old men will have dreams and young men will see visions. We are in such a time as this right now. Come listen to Papa Tom as he reveals dreams the Lord has given him that not only affect his identity, calling and destiny; but more far reaching the effect of what he is hearing from the Lord on the entire country.The most common form of communication between God and Man in Scripture appears to be dreams and visions. Listen to how Eric Metaxas himself is moved by these dreams and how many of them resonate with Eric himself.Be encouraged, God is Good, absolutely good and He has good plans in store for those who believe Him, i.e. His children.Blessings:Papa Tom

Ever felt like you were called… but stuck in a season of “not yet”? You’re not alone. Whether it’s King David or King Jesus, even God’s greatest waited between their anointing and appointing. But take heart—your “in-between” is never wasted. Key Takeaways You’re Sealed and Claimed – God put His Spirit in you as a guarantee of what’s to come (2 Cor 1:21-22). Anointed ≠ Immediately Appointed – David waited decades; Jesus waited years. Waiting doesn’t mean forgotten. God Doesn’t Rush – He moves in perfect timing (Isaiah 60:22). You’re not behind schedule—you’re being prepared. Your Wait Has a Purpose – David gathered strength and support; Jesus discipled and taught. Your delay is part of your development. Join the Conversation How are you holding onto faith in your waiting season? What has God been refining in you while you wait? Share your reflections using #LifeaudioNetwork. And remember: if He’s anointed you, He will appoint you—right on time.

In Scripture, followers of Christ are encouraged to rejoice, even in the midst of suffering and trials. How is this possible? Be encouraged as John explains and shares individual examples to help us understand how to "count it all joy."

Presented by Lauren Stibgen Are you an expert at something? Perhaps you have gone to school for an advanced degree in a specific subject. Your deep knowledge uniquely qualifies you among your peers and shows people just how qualified you are, but suddenly your expertise is no longer welcomed. People don't seem to appreciate what you have to say or care about your accomplishments and accolades. We have considered different people in the Bible who seemed disposable. Let's explore an ultimate expert who was easily dismissed or disposed of—Jesus. In Scripture, we learn of Jesus' innate knowledge of the Word. In Luke 2:42-47, Jesus is only 12 years old when his parents take him to Jerusalem for the customary Passover. When the feast ends, they leave, but Jesus stays. Frantically searching as parents would, they go back and find him. After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers (Luke 2:46-47). Surely, we know Jesus is the Son of God, which is ultimately why he knows the Word, but here Jesus establishes this at the young age of 12. After his baptism by John, we know Jesus is led into the wilderness for 40 days and tempted by Satan. When Satan tempts him in his hunger, Jesus answered, “It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone” (Luke 4:4). Again, he establishes for us a deep knowledge and reliance on the Word of God. As he began his ministry, Jesus taught in the synagogues of Galilee and was glorified by all (Luke 4:15). But then he went home to Nazareth. Going to the synagogue he read from Isaiah, and while they spoke well of him and marveled, someone asks, “Isn't this Joseph's son?” You can read more about this interaction in Luke 4, but it ends with them driving Jesus to the edge of town, attempting to throw him off a cliff. Why? Because he quotes Scripture about himself, and no prophet is acceptable in his hometown. Throughout the Gospels, we read about Jesus' rebuke of the religious leaders for their actions and, well, inactions. Using Scripture the leaders of the day knew richly, he showed their hypocrisy repeatedly, ultimately leading to such great jealousy that they called for his crucifixion. Those of us who have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior know all of this was part of God's plan to redeem his people and the world. Jesus lived as an expert to the ultimate sacrifice of being disposed on the cross, but he rose on the third day and has eternal life at the right hand of the Father! God's plans are always greater. When you feel dismissed for your expertise and deep knowledge, rather than leaning into discouragement, pray to the Lord! How will he use your unique talents and gifts for his glory? Today our professional experience and expertise are always on display. From LinkedIn to TedX, to being a member of a coveted organization, if you aren't on display, it can feel like you aren't qualified for what is next professionally. Maybe it is a title or the way someone dresses at work. Perhaps you hope to attend meetings or a company offsite but weren't selected. Remember, like Leah, God has a plan just for you!