Podcasts about Israelites

“The end of a thing is better than its beginning; the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.” (Ecclesiastes 7:8 NKJV) The poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow said, “Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending.” And Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, wrote, “The end of a thing is better than its beginning” (Ecclesiastes 7:8 NKJV). Starting strong is overrated. Take sports, for example. Few baseball statisticians keep track of which team was ahead after the first inning. What matters is the final score. Likewise, starting strong is overrated in our spiritual journey. The Bible gives us examples of people who started strong in their service to the Lord, only to falter later. Scripture doesn’t celebrate these early successes; instead, it uses the people’s experiences as cautionary tales for other believers. One of the most memorable of these cautionary tales is that of Samson. Samson had a great beginning. He was blessed with superhuman qualities. Physically, there was no one stronger. We get a sense of his power in Judges 14:5–6: “As Samson and his parents were going down to Timnah, a young lion suddenly attacked Samson near the vineyards of Timnah. At that moment the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him, and he ripped the lion’s jaws apart with his bare hands. He did it as easily as if it were a young goat” (NLT). Samson was a one-man army, a judge chosen by God to make a difference on behalf of His people. On one occasion Samson killed thirty Philistines—the enemies of the Israelites—to settle a bet. On another occasion he killed 1,000 Philistine warriors on the battlefield with a bone that he picked up from the ground. He wasn’t a fictitious superhero; he was the real deal. For a time, Samson was a mighty man of God. And for a time, he was even a true world changer. Eventually, however, the world began to change him. Samson turned his back on God. He had an amazing beginning but a tragic ending. One day your life will be summed up in a paragraph or two on a bulletin that will be handed out at your memorial service. No one will care about how much money you made or how much stuff you owned. No one will care how high you climbed in your profession. Instead, they’ll talk about what kind of person you were. We don’t decide the day of our death any more than we decided the day of our birth. But we do determine the spiritual state we’ll be in when we die. God wants us to be close to Him. God wants us in friendship and fellowship and intimacy with Him. But it’s our choice whether to have a relationship with the Lord or not to have a relationship with Him. We must choose wisely so that we finish well. Reflection question: How do you want to finish your walk with the Lord? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“The end of a thing is better than its beginning; the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.” (Ecclesiastes 7:8 NKJV) The poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow said, “Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending.” And Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, wrote, “The end of a thing is better than its beginning” (Ecclesiastes 7:8 NKJV). Starting strong is overrated. Take sports, for example. Few baseball statisticians keep track of which team was ahead after the first inning. What matters is the final score. Likewise, starting strong is overrated in our spiritual journey. The Bible gives us examples of people who started strong in their service to the Lord, only to falter later. Scripture doesn’t celebrate these early successes; instead, it uses the people’s experiences as cautionary tales for other believers. One of the most memorable of these cautionary tales is that of Samson. Samson had a great beginning. He was blessed with superhuman qualities. Physically, there was no one stronger. We get a sense of his power in Judges 14:5–6: “As Samson and his parents were going down to Timnah, a young lion suddenly attacked Samson near the vineyards of Timnah. At that moment the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him, and he ripped the lion’s jaws apart with his bare hands. He did it as easily as if it were a young goat” (NLT). Samson was a one-man army, a judge chosen by God to make a difference on behalf of His people. On one occasion Samson killed thirty Philistines—the enemies of the Israelites—to settle a bet. On another occasion he killed 1,000 Philistine warriors on the battlefield with a bone that he picked up from the ground. He wasn’t a fictitious superhero; he was the real deal. For a time, Samson was a mighty man of God. And for a time, he was even a true world changer. Eventually, however, the world began to change him. Samson turned his back on God. He had an amazing beginning but a tragic ending. One day your life will be summed up in a paragraph or two on a bulletin that will be handed out at your memorial service. No one will care about how much money you made or how much stuff you owned. No one will care how high you climbed in your profession. Instead, they’ll talk about what kind of person you were. We don’t decide the day of our death any more than we decided the day of our birth. But we do determine the spiritual state we’ll be in when we die. God wants us to be close to Him. God wants us in friendship and fellowship and intimacy with Him. But it’s our choice whether to have a relationship with the Lord or not to have a relationship with Him. We must choose wisely so that we finish well. Reflection question: How do you want to finish your walk with the Lord? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From “In the Beginning” to Amen // Strategies of the Enemy (Exodus) There are Five Strategies I Want to Look at: (I'm sure there are others too) 1. DiscouragementDiscouraged by CircumstancesExodus 6:9 (NLT)“So Moses told the people of Israel what the LORD had said, but they refused to listen anymore. They had become too discouraged by the brutality of their slavery.” Discouraged by the EnemyExodus 13:17-18 (NLT)“When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest route to the Promised Land. God said, “If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” Discouraged by One AnotherNumbers 32:7-9 (NIV)“Why do you discourage the Israelites from crossing over into the land the Lord has given them? This is what your fathers did when I sent them from Kadesh Barnea to look over the land. After they went up to the Valley of Eshkol and viewed the land, they discouraged the Israelites from entering the land the Lord had given them.” Antidote: Encourage and Build UpHebrews 3:13 (ESV)"But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called 'Today,' so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.” Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)"...Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together... but encouraging one another.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”       2. DistractionAntidote: Stay FocusedHebrews 12:1-2 (NLT)“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.” 3. Disruption/DivisionAntidote: Walk in Unity1 Corinthians 1:10 (NIV)“I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.” Philippians 2:2 (NIV)“Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” Colossians 3:13-14 (NV)“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” 4. DeceptionAntidote: Hold Fast to TruthJohn 8:32 (NIV)“And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 17:17 (NIV)“Jesus said, ‘Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth'.” Psalm 51:6 (ESV)“Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being, and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart.” 5. DestructionAntidote: Choose LifeProverbs 14:2 (NIV)“There is a way that seems right to man, but the end of it is destruction.” Acts 2:21 (NLT)“But everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” 2 Samuel 22:2 (ESV)“The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer."

Join Micah, W Scott McAndless, Anthony Moss, and Darth as we explore the material reality of sacrifice in Leviticus 6:8-7:38. What are all of these different sacrifices and what do they mean? What does this ancient system communicate about the way our faith ancestors were dealing with the everyday material realities they struggled with and against? What does it mean for everyone to be holy? What does this practice illustrate about the decentralization of ancient Israelite religion and what does that have to teach us about our own politics?Darth is the comforting third sip of hot cocoa after you burnt your lips twice and decided to let it cool down for awhile. Anthony Moss is the author of The Yellow Sky was Ours and can be found online @mossmancometh.W Scott McAndless is the host of Micah's favorite Bible podcast, Retelling the Bible, and the author of Caesar's Census, God's Jubilee: Rethinking and Reimagining the Story of Mary and Joseph's Journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem.You can find the show, more episodes, and other means of listening at thewordinblackandred.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some episodes are going to be action-packed and some are going to sound like you're reading an instruction book, and this episode may tend toward the latter of the two. It's important to remember, however, that the tabernacle is the place where the God of the universe, perfect in all His ways, matchless in power and authority, would meet with His people in a unique way. If it were up to you to build that, wouldn't you want detailed instructions? Right worship is important to God, and these detailed instructions gave the Israelites the freedom of knowing their worship was pleasing to God Almighty. Today, God gives instructions on how the Israelites would build the place where He would be worshipped, how to collect funds to put it together. Exodus 25 - 1:02 .  Exodus 26 – 7:00 .  Exodus 27 - 13:08 .  Psalm 33 - 16:49 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Dress yourself up in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. This “clothing” will draw attention to God in a good way. -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible.     Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org   Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Many of us find the Old Testament difficult to understand. Some find it incomprehensible, and some find it difficult to square with our modern sensibilities. We wonder if the Old Testament is irrelevant. Or we try to understand it and find it so confusing that we give up trying to read it.Our guest is one of the most influential Old Testament scholars of this generation. John Walton has spent his career engaging deeply with the Old Testament's text and understands the ancient context in which it was written.His latest book is Old Testament Theology for Christians: From Ancient Context to Enduring Belief (InterVarsity Press, 2025). In it, he invites us to leave our modern, and even our inherited Christian, preconceptions at the threshold as we enter the world of the Old Testament. We discuss:* How the New Testament writers viewed the Old Testament, and the danger of shirking our desire to understand it.* That since the Old Testament was written for us, it was not written to us. To fully comprehend the way that it is for us, we have to do whatever it takes to join the author's implied audience. We discuss the importance of delving into both the cultural and literary contexts.* The Israelites swam in the “cultural rivers” of the Mesopotamian and Egyptian religious ideas. Does this mean that the Old Testament is just a flawed human creation because it was influenced by its Ancient Near Eastern context?* From the beginning, God's intention has always been to dwell among his people and to be in relationship with them. Not only that, God makes plans and has purposes, and includes humans in his plan as fellow workers. How can this foundational relationship principle help us grasp all the stories of the Old Testament?* As Christians, we think the focus of faith is on salvation and eternal life. Therefore, we define our identity in those terms: “I'm saved and heaven bound.” The Israelites didn't see it that way. The substance of their faith was something else. What can we learn about authentic faith from their view of their relationship with God?Scroll down to learn more about John Walton.Thanks for listening!If you enjoyed this podcast, please share it with your friends!Your hosts are Dr. Bob Robinson and David Loughney. For further resources on reintegrating all of life with God's mission, go to re-integrate.org.John H. Walton, Ph.D. Dr. John H. Walton (PhD, Hebrew Union College) is professor of Old Testament, emeritus, at Wheaton College and Graduate School. His many books include “The Lost World” series, which includes the influential book, The Lost World of Genesis One. He has written commentaries on Genesis, Job, Daniel, and Jonah. He is also the co-editor (with Craig S. Keener) of the Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible.Support independent booksellers! We recommend purchasing John's books from Byron and Beth Borger at Hearts & Minds Bookstore. They are eager to serve God's people with great books. Order online through their secure server or call 717-246-3333. Ask for 20% OFF by mentioning that you heard about these books on the Reintegrate Podcast! Get full access to Bob Robinson's Substack at bobrobinsonre.substack.com/subscribe

Our Bible Reading of the Day is Joshua 2. As they prepare to enter the Promised Land, Joshua sends two spies to explore Jericho. Rahab, a prostitute, first hides the spies from the authorities, and later she helps them escape out her window in the city wall. Because of her faithfulness, the spies promise to spare Rahab and her family when the Israelites come to occupy the city. God saved His spies in Jericho through the unlikely and unexpected Rahab. God has saved us, His people today, through the unexpected and undeserved sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

In this Bible Story, God parts the seas so the Israelites could run to freedom. God then provides Israel with water and food as they travel towards the promised land. This story is inspired by Exodus 14:29-16:36. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Exodus 14:29 from the King James Version.Episode 38: In Israel’s exodus from the land of Egypt, after 430 years of slavery, they headed joyfully to the wilderness, and the land God will call them to. But as they came to camp by the sea, Pharaoh and his army changed their mind and pursued them. Trapped between an approaching army and the sea the people fear for their lives, but through Moses, God provides His people a miraculous means of escape and a final victory over the Egyptians once and for all.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Numbers 10-11; Psalm 27; Mark 1 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! In this episode, Heather brings us together for the 53rd day of our journey through the scriptures, focusing on Numbers chapters 10 and 11, Psalm 27, and Mark chapter 1. As we gather from around the world, Heather reminds us that we approach the scriptures not for their sake alone, but because they point us to Jesus—the true source of life. Throughout this episode, we witness the Israelites' journey from Sinai, their challenges and complaints, Moses's struggles as a leader, and God's powerful response. In Psalm 27, David's deep trust in God encourages us to seek refuge and confidence in His presence. And in Mark 1, Heather highlights the beginning of Jesus' ministry, his compassion for the outcast, and the transformative power of his touch. We end with reflection, prayer, and encouragement to live each day renewed by God's love—abiding in Him, carrying His peace to the world, and remembering: you are loved. Join us as we open our hearts to scripture, the Holy Spirit's illumination, and the renewing love of Christ. TODAY'S DEVOTION: The story of God's Spirit shared among his people runs like a current through today's readings. In Numbers, Joshua hesitated, unsure if the others were worthy to receive the Spirit that had been given to Moses. But Moses, with a heart tuned to God's desire, longed for all of God's people to be filled with that same Spirit. That longing—the dream that none would be left out, that everyone would know the life that comes from God—is fulfilled in Jesus. Jesus stands in the power of the Spirit, bringing good news, healing, and restoration to all kinds of people: fishermen, the sick, the demon-possessed, and even a leper—a man considered so unclean, so unreachable. It's that very leper, made clean and whole by Jesus's touch, who becomes one of his greatest heralds. He's compelled to tell everyone what's happened, to spread the word that Jesus is willing and able to heal and make new. This is the story still being told today. Those who have been made clean, healed of brokenness and isolation, can't help but declare what Jesus has done. All the former "lepers"—the ones who know what it means to be outcast, who have experienced grace—are letting the world know the compassion of Jesus. This isn't a story reserved for the past. Even now, right where you are, the hands of Jesus reach out with love, to make you clean, to restore your soul. Maybe this is happening for you in this very moment. That is the hope and purpose of this podcast: to remind us again and again that it is Jesus who heals, who cleanses, who renews. He never stops reaching out in mercy. And as we experience this new life, we're invited to live in the Spirit, to abide with him, and to let our own lives become testimonies—just like the leper—of what God has done by his grace, for us and for the whole world. Let us live in the newness of what Jesus is doing. Let his compassion and transforming life flow through us, and may we spread that good news, letting the world see the love that reaches out and makes us whole. That's my prayer for my own heart, for my loved ones, and for you today. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

In this episode, Pastor Peter challenges us to commit to the practice of drawing near to the Lord, reminding us that we are either moving closer to God or drifting away. He emphasizes that true intimacy requires more than just lip service (Isaiah 29:13); it demands a true heart that seeks the living God as a deer pants for water (Psalm 42:1). By examining the Israelites' encounter with God at Mount Sinai in Exodus 19, Pastor Peter contrasts the "wrong kind of fear" that keeps people at a distance with the fear of the Lord that empowers us to enter the deep darkness where God dwells. Because of the single, perfect sacrifice of Jesus, we now have confidence to enter holy places and are commissioned as a kingdom of priests to minister in His presence (Hebrews 10:19, 22). Ultimately, we are urged to set our hearts on pilgrimage (Psalm 84:5), abandoning "dumb rocks" of safety to embrace a generational revival and a gospel of power that prepares the way for the Lord.

The Great Rosary Campaign is an ongoing prayer and penance campaign for the conversion and strengthening of both Catholic and non-Catholic leaders.As a "Trekkie" (lover of Star Trek), we will be devoting several Great Rosary Campaigns to praying for the conversion of all remaining Star Trek cast members to the Catholic Faith.THIS WEEK of the Great Rosary Campaign: Star Trek Edition, we are praying for the conversion of Marina Sirtis, who played Counselor Deanna Troi on the various Enterprises in "Star Trek: The Next Generation." Please join us in praying that she may "live long and prosper" unto eternal life.The SUGGESTED PENANCE this week is a Holy Hour before the Blessed Sacrament, the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist.In these dark times, we must fight evil with the most powerful weapons we have. The Rosary is foremost among them. Join the Great Rosary Campaign today at: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com.Countless Saints and Popes have told us that the Rosary is incredibly powerful for three things in particular:Keeping the FaithMoral renovationConversions of non-CatholicsThe Great Rosary Campaign is also based on several biblical themes and principles.First, PRAY FOR OUR BRETHREN. “Pray for one another…” (Jas. 5:16). “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6:10).Second, PRAY FOR OUR ENEMIES. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:43-44).Third, PRAY FOR ALL MEN, PARTICULARLY LEADERS AND THOSE IN AUTHORITY. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, or kings and all who are in high positions…” (1 Tim. 2:1-2).Fourth, GOING INTO BATTLE WITH THE ARK. When the ancient Israelites came to Jericho, God didn't tell them to besiege the city. Instead, He told them to march around it with the Ark of the Covenant seven times, and on the seventh the walls would fall. We will now "march" in prayer for seven days with the New Ark of the Covenant, Our Lady, through the Rosary. We pray in hope that on the seventh day, a day especially devoted to Our Lady (Saturday), extraordinary graces of conversion will be given to those we are praying for.Fifth, EVANGELISM AND APOLOGETICS = LOVE + ARGUMENTS + PRAYER + PENANCE. Ultimately it is God who reveals Himself to a soul, and empowers them to say "yes" to Him by His grace. He chooses to use us, but He does not have to. We must remember that as we evangelize and defend the Faith, our arguments will be fruitless unless informed by love (charity), and reinforced by prayer and penance.Sixth, RETURNING GOOD FOR EVIL. “Do not return evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but on the contrary bless, for to this you have been called, that you may obtain a blessing" (1 Pet. 3:9).Sign up to take part in the Great Rosary Campaign today: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com

God tests the Israelites amidst judgments and the Sabbath is found before the ten commandments.

Exodus 1-15 // Nathan MillerThis sermon covers the foundational journey of the Israelites as they transition from harsh oppression in Egypt to miraculous freedom. We follow the rise of Moses, the confrontation with Pharaoh through the ten plagues, and the climactic crossing of the Red Sea. Discover how these ancient events reveal the character of a God who hears the cries of his people and acts with power to rescue them.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49566445 PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2542/responses/new26.02.22

In this episode, Sean discusses the importance of daily dependent on God. He uses the Israelites as an example, and how God wanted them to be dependent on manna each day, but they tried to store it up and that did not work out well. He gives practical tips for living with manna faith. Enjoy!

Exodus 1-15 // Ben BeasleyThis sermon covers the foundational journey of the Israelites as they transition from harsh oppression in Egypt to miraculous freedom. We follow the rise of Moses, the confrontation with Pharaoh through the ten plagues, and the climactic crossing of the Red Sea. Discover how these ancient events reveal the character of a God who hears the cries of his people and acts with power to rescue them.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49566446 PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new26.02.22

The Bible teaches about freedom & victory--as believers, there's no latitude to be despondent and defeated, because the Lord has provided everything we need to live abundantly. The Israelites didn't believe that when they heard the bad report of the 10 spies, and defaulted to negativity, which happens when we take our eyes off the Lord's promises and provision. We have to learn to fight this by living in Truth, trusting in the Lord's help and being consistently grateful to Him.   Video of this service is also available:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gSIvgGj1UJ0&t=3662s

Following the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, the Israelites find themselves in the wilderness—a place of disorientation, testing, and revelation. This sermon explores the "Wilderness" as an evergreen metaphor for the Christian life. It is the mandatory field trip between deliverance and the Promised Land, where our fickle hearts are exposed, and our faith is refined. As we enter the season of Lent and prepare for a congregational digital fast, we examine how the desert serves as a paradox: a place of intense danger and lack, but also the "God country" where miracles and spiritual power are found.Scripture ReferencesExodus 15:22–27: The waters of Mara and the transformation of bitterness.Exodus 16: The grumbling of the community and the provision of manna.Exodus 17:1–7: The striking of the rock at Horeb.1 Corinthians 10:4: Paul's identification of the Rock as Christ.Key PointsThe Paradox of the Desert: The wilderness is both a place of exposure and a place of divine intimacy. It is where visibility is low, familiar markers are gone, and we are forced to put one foot in front of the other.The Necessity of Testing: You cannot trust what has not been tested. The wilderness reveals the true contents of the heart. It is a place of "wrestling" with God, learning to navigate relationship without causing harm.The Teacher is Quiet: In the wilderness, the silence of God during the "test" is a primary challenge. However, promotion and spiritual clarity often lie on the other side of this silence.Fickleness and Unholy Nostalgia: We are prone to wander. Within days of a miracle, we resort to grumbling and "unholy nostalgia"—selectively remembering the "meat pots" of our past captivity while forgetting the chains.The Cross in the Wilderness: * The Tree at Mara: Just as the log made bitter water sweet, the Cross of Christ makes the bitter experiences of life drinkable.The Struck Rock: In a divine reversal, God stands upon the rock to receive the blow of judgment deserved by the grumbling Israelites. Christ is the spiritual Rock who was struck so that we might receive the water of everlasting life.ConclusionThere is no making it through the wilderness by trying harder or merely following rules. We must cling to the Cross. In the desert, pain is not the greatest danger; rather, the danger lies in where we turn for relief. If we turn to Christ, the one who was struck for us, we find that even the most desolate place is filled with His presence.Calls to ActionParticipate in the Digital Fast: Join the church-wide digital fast starting March 1st. Use the provided guide to redirect your focus from screens to God's voice.Identify Your Wilderness: Acknowledge where you are experiencing disorientation or testing. Stop "trying harder" and start clinging to the Cross.Resist Grumbling: Be mindful of the urge to complain or romanticize past sins. Practice gratitude for God's present provision, even when it is "manna" rather than "meat pots." Support the show*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI. Please notify us if you find any errors.

With this final section of chapter eleven the Apostle Paul brings to a close his explanation of how despite the widespread rejection of Christ by so many ethnic Israelites, the word of God has not failed. In doing so Paul reveals a great mystery about God's saving plans for Jews and Gentiles and confirms the faithfulness of our sovereign God.

Why was Rahab willing to risk everything to save a couple of Israelite spies?

In this conversation with Rabbanit Mali Brofsky, we study the Haftorah of Shabbat Zachor which recounts Shaul's loss of the monarchy in I Shmuel 15 in the war against Amalek. We explore the significance of Shaul's error in this narrative alongside the ideal nature of Israelite monarchy. This year the Matan Podcast is exploring the weekly Haftorah.

Exodus 1-15 // Gabe CoyleThis sermon covers the foundational journey of the Israelites as they transition from harsh oppression in Egypt to miraculous freedom. We follow the rise of Moses, the confrontation with Pharaoh through the ten plagues, and the climactic crossing of the Red Sea. Discover how these ancient events reveal the character of a God who hears the cries of his people and acts with power to rescue them.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49566447 PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2553/responses/new26.02.22

Exodus 1-15 // Bill GormanThis sermon covers the foundational journey of the Israelites as they transition from harsh oppression in Egypt to miraculous freedom. We follow the rise of Moses, the confrontation with Pharaoh through the ten plagues, and the climactic crossing of the Red Sea. Discover how these ancient events reveal the character of a God who hears the cries of his people and acts with power to rescue them.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49566448 PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2546/responses/new26.02.22

SHOW NOTES   In Podcast Episode 363, “Idols I Need to Smash,” Kim discusses how when someone meets with the Lord, they cannot remain the same. In today's primary text, the people of Judah and some from Israel had celebrated the Passover for the first time in their lifetimes. Immediately, they smashed multiple different idols. When the prophet Isaiah saw the Lord, he immediately saw how sinful he and the people were, and the Lord graciously forgave and then commissioned him to speak on His behalf. We can't meet with the Lord and leave unchanged.   Our focal passage for this episode is 2 Chronicles 31:1-21, with 1 as the focal verse:   1 When the festival ended, the Israelites who attended went to all the towns of Judah, Benjamin, Ephraim, and Manasseh, and they smashed all the sacred pillars, cut down the Asherah poles, and removed the pagan shrines and altars. After this, the Israelites returned to their own towns and homes.     WEEKLY ENGAGEMENT FEATURE:   Prayerfully identify any idols you need to smash immediately.   Additional Resources and Scriptures:   Isaiah 6:1-8 EMAIL — encouragingothersinlovingjesus@gmail.com Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus X - https://x.com/eoinlovingjesus?s=21&t=YcRjZQUpvP7FrJmm7Pe1hg INSTAGRAM -  https://www.instagram.com/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus” YouTube Channel: Check it out at https://www.youtube.com/@EncouragingOthersInLovingJesus   I WANT TO BEGIN A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST.   RESOURCES USED FOR BOOK OF 1 & 2 Kings (1 & 2 Chronicles) PODCASTS: “The Wiersbe Bible Commentary: The Complete Old Testament OT in One Volume” “Christ-Centered Exposition: Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Kings” by Tony Merida “The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God's Kingdom Agenda” “Life Application Study Bible” “The Swindoll Study Bible: NLT” by Charles R. Swindoll Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary “The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary” by J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays (Editors) Expositor's Bible Commentary (Abridged Edition): Old Testament, 2004, by Kenneth L. Barker, John R. Kohlenberger, III. xAI. (2026). Grok [Large language model]. https://x.ai/grok/chat      "Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus" Facebook Group:   Our Facebook Group is devoted to providing a place for us to encourage each other through all the seasons of life. Follow the provided link to request admittance into “Encouraging Others in Loving Jesus”—https://www.facebook.com/groups/encouragingothersinlovingjesus/ Feel free to invite others who will be good encouragers and/or need encouragement to follow Jesus.   This podcast is hosted by Kim Smith, a small town Country Girl who left her comfort zone to follow Jesus in a big City World. Now, she wants to use God's Word and lessons from her faith journey to encourage others in loving Jesus.   In each episode, Kim will share insights regarding a portion of God's Word and challenge listeners to apply the lessons to their daily lives.   If you want to grow in your faith and learn how to encourage others in loving Jesus, subscribe and commit to prayerfully listening each week.   Remember, “It's Always a Trust & Obey Kinda Day!”   If you have questions or comments or would like to learn more about how to follow Jesus, please email Kim at EncouragingOthersinLovingJesus@gmail.com.     National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline   988   https://988lifeline.org/   Reference: Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Tyndale House Publishers. Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Wheaton, Ill: Tyndale House Publishers, 2004.   Podcast recorded through Cleanfeed and edited through GarageBand. The soundtrack, entitled “Outlaw John McShane” was obtained from Pixabay.     The HIDDEN Episodes:  If you can't access episodes 1-50 on your podcast app (the podcast was then entitled "A Country Girl in a City World - Loving Jesus"), you can get all the content at my Podbean site at https://acountrygirlinacityworldlovingjesus.podbean.com/  

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE:  Numbers 8-9; Acts 28 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the February 21st episode of the Daily Radio Bible! Today, Hunter and Heather invite you to journey with them through day 52 of their one-year trek through the scriptures. Together, they reflect on passages from Numbers 8 and 9, and Acts 28—exploring how the ancient rituals of the Israelites, the journey of the Levites, and Paul's final days in Rome all point us toward the life and love found in Christ. This episode is a gentle, thoughtful reminder to read scripture with our eyes on Jesus—the one who leads us in love, forgiveness, and hope. You'll hear profound prayers, practical encouragement for daily life, and a closing challenge to let your own story become a fresh chapter in God's ongoing work in the world. Whether you're new to the podcast or a daily listener, today's episode will encourage you to draw near, keeping your heart open to the transforming message of the kingdom of God. TODAY'S DEVOTION: The message cannot be arrested. Hunter reminds us, as we come to the close of Acts, that though Paul is finally in Rome under house arrest, the true message—this proclamation of the kingdom of God—will not be stopped. The story of Acts doesn't end with Paul's death; the message lives on, reaching beyond Nero and all the powers of this world. The heart of the gospel, the central announcement through Paul, is the kingdom of God, evidenced and heralded by Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah, the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jesus is the King of Kings, heir to David's throne, the one through whom all nations find salvation and hope. Hunter highlights that this kingdom comes in surprising ways. Not by force, not by might, but through the Spirit, through the defeat of sin, death, and the grave on the cross. The victory that Jesus has won becomes the foundation for a new kind of life—a life that is filled with freedom, love, and transformation. The story doesn't end with Paul. The story moves forward—a story of men and women liberated, stepping into the life they were made for. Now, as we finish Acts, Hunter calls us to imagine ourselves stepping into "chapter 29"—the new chapter of God's story continuing through us. The victory and love of Christ are still advancing in the world through ordinary people, reclaiming all things for God, inviting us to embody and proclaim the message of the kingdom. It is a call to step into the reality of what God has done—into a life marked by victory, joy, and love. That is the prayer for our own souls, for our families, for you. That we will live as citizens of this kingdom, proclaiming and participating in the unstoppable, liberating love of Christ. May it be so.   TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260221dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and the seventy elders of Israel went up and saw the God of Israel. Under his feet was something like a pavement made of lapis lazuli, as bright blue as the sky itself. But God did not raise his hand against these leaders of the Israelites; they saw God, and they ate and drank. Exodus 24:9-11 God invites Us to His Dinner Party Imagine that you’ve been invited to a dinner party. The menu has things that you enjoy. Also, the time and the date work for you. But then you come to realize that you don't know anyone else who’s been invited to the party, and you have absolutely nothing in common with the people who are going. Would you still be as excited to go? I’d guess most of us wouldn’t be as excited. After all, what really makes a party fun is being with people we know and enjoy. Can you imagine a dinner party with God? It’s hard to imagine! And at first glance, it’s probably a scary thought. After all, God is perfect, holy, and eternal; we’re sinners. What in the world do we have in common with God, or he with us? And yet God chooses to invite us to his dinner party. God chooses to socialize with us. We read in today’s Bible verses of how he allowed the leaders and elders of Israel to dine in his presence. What an experience! He did it in an even more wondrous measure when Jesus came to this world and lived our human life. He continues to do it today, promising that he’s with us always, to the very end of time. And he’s preparing a place for us at the eternal “banquet feast” in heaven. But why would God want ME at his party? I’m a sinner! Ah, true. But Jesus lived, died, and rose, thereby paying for your sins in full. And so, you’re a welcome guest through Jesus. What a wonderful party it will be! Prayer: Savior Jesus, thank you for inviting me to the party, the eternal party. Fill me with longing for the day you take me there. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

This week we enter the nineteenth weekly Torah portion, Terumah, which in Hebrew means “offering.” At this point in the Exodus story, the Israelites have just witnessed the dramatic crossing of the Red Sea and stood at the base of Mount Sinai to receive the covenant. They have been given the foundational instructions for living as set-apart people. Now, God has a plan for a communal building project. This leads us to wonder: Why did God need the Tabernacle? Why did the creator of the universe even allow for himself to be limited to a tent? Doesn't that mean God was condescending to the imagination of men and allowing himself to seem like all of Israel's neighbors' gods with their temples and altars? The truth is, God didn't need the Tabernacle. Man did. God used the Tabernacle to invite his people back through the gates of Eden. He desired to once again be in their midst, to be known by them and worshiped.Support the show

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260221dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and the seventy elders of Israel went up and saw the God of Israel. Under his feet was something like a pavement made of lapis lazuli, as bright blue as the sky itself. But God did not raise his hand against these leaders of the Israelites; they saw God, and they ate and drank. Exodus 24:9-11 God invites Us to His Dinner Party Imagine that you’ve been invited to a dinner party. The menu has things that you enjoy. Also, the time and the date work for you. But then you come to realize that you don't know anyone else who’s been invited to the party, and you have absolutely nothing in common with the people who are going. Would you still be as excited to go? I’d guess most of us wouldn’t be as excited. After all, what really makes a party fun is being with people we know and enjoy. Can you imagine a dinner party with God? It’s hard to imagine! And at first glance, it’s probably a scary thought. After all, God is perfect, holy, and eternal; we’re sinners. What in the world do we have in common with God, or he with us? And yet God chooses to invite us to his dinner party. God chooses to socialize with us. We read in today’s Bible verses of how he allowed the leaders and elders of Israel to dine in his presence. What an experience! He did it in an even more wondrous measure when Jesus came to this world and lived our human life. He continues to do it today, promising that he’s with us always, to the very end of time. And he’s preparing a place for us at the eternal “banquet feast” in heaven. But why would God want ME at his party? I’m a sinner! Ah, true. But Jesus lived, died, and rose, thereby paying for your sins in full. And so, you’re a welcome guest through Jesus. What a wonderful party it will be! Prayer: Savior Jesus, thank you for inviting me to the party, the eternal party. Fill me with longing for the day you take me there. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Well today is our last episode in the book of Acts, and as this book concludes, we see Paul continue to contend for the faith that was delivered to the saints once for all. He presents his position to kings and noblemen, respectfully arguing that his position is valid and worthy of consideration. We also see that his Jewish audience is willing to listen to him up until a certain point, and that breaking point is sadly consistent. The Jews turn on Paul in outrage as soon as he suggests that this good news is not just for Israelites, but for believing Gentiles as well.Acts 25 – 1:14 . Acts 26 – 6:09 . Acts 27 – 12:24 . Acts 28 – 19:39 . Proverbs 15 – 25:12 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

This week on The Bible Study Hour with Dr. James Boice, the people of Israel have prayed for their king, and God has answered their prayers favorably. The Israelites are now praising God for his deliverance, blessings and provision. Join us as we study Psalm 21, a psalm of national thanksgiving, together. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/81/29?v=20251111

As the people of God are on the road to the Promised Land, Yahweh demands the consecration of the Israelites’ firstborn and first fruits. Why? It’s a reminder that God must be first in every area of our lives, and it’s no less true today.

Numbers 13 & 14 is one of those passages we just have to know. This passage explains why the Children of Israel wandered in the wilderness for 40 years. It also helps us understand the necessity of faith and trust in God in all times. Finally, it shows us the tragic outcome when people are defeated by doubt. Join us for a powerful study in how faith and trust ultimately overcome doubt and despair.  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    If someone asked you, "Why did the Israelites wander in the wilderness, before today's study, what would you have said?"  2.    What were some of the ways that the Lord has already shown the people His power and faithfulness? How did these manifestations further add to the people's judgment in these chapters?  3.    In verse 2, the Lord says that He was going to give the people the Land of Canaan. Why is it important that they (and us) understand that this land was a gift God was giving to them? How would that change the nature of the conquest?  4.    What were the first things the spies said about the land in verse 27? What did they go on to say about the land?  5.    How did Caleb see the situation differently in verse 30? What do you think led him to make these conclusions?  6.    How did the people view themselves in verse 33? Why would it have been impossible for them to go forward with this mindset? How do people sometimes have this same mindset today? What is the antidote for this kind of thinking?  7.    In the early verses of Numbers 14, what were the people doing? What did they conclude in verse 4? Why was this an act of rebellious mutiny?  8.    What did Joshua and Caleb try to do, again, in verse 7 to 9? What did this reflect about the depth of their faith? How did the people respond to their words in verse 9?  9.    Who stepped in to save the situation in verse 10? Why was this necessary?  10.    The next stretch of verses record God's verdict on the people. How would you summarize this judgment? Why would God condemn the people to this fate?  11.    What did the people try to do in verse 40? What did the podcast explain about the nature of this false repentance? How do people sometimes demonstrate a similar false repentance today? 12.    What did Moses tell the people in verse 41 to 43? Why were his words going to be true? 13.    What did the people do in verse 44? What happened to them in verse 45? How did this demonstrate God's judgment upon them? What would have happened if they had not rebelled against the Lord in these two chapters?  14.    From what you have seen in this chapter, what are some dangers of grumbling and complaining? How does this affect our relationship with the Lord? His people?  15.    Is there any place in your own life where you're tempted to disobey God's Word? Why is that a lack of faith? From these principles, what danger are you facing (or would you face)? How can you bring that to the Lord for His cleansing grace?   Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

On today's episode God begins to give very specific commands to the Israelite people on what it looks like to be fair, kind, and gracious to one another. The Lord's justice is severe for those who are selfish and outright rebellious, but gracious toward those who have no intention of causing harm. As you listen, it can be tempting to think that these are dry or irrelevant, but put yourself in the shoes/sandals of the original audience, whose livelihood wasn't based on cash or money, but on livestock, crops, and community with one another. Imagine yourself in each situation, & the text becomes much more interesting.Exodus 22 - 1:02 . Exodus 23 - 6:53 . Exodus 24 - 13:14 . Psalm 32 - 16:38 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Week 8 of the audio Bible in a year as we continue and finish off Leviticus (you'll be glad to hear) and start into Numbers. I know at times it can be hard work but as we talked in the recap, this is God setting out the way the Israelites were to get to know Him, and for us today, how we know the character of God and what He cares about. So as hard as it can seem, it's an important part of getting to know God.

Todd invited his younger brother Alex, a recent college graduate, to come live with him in the house he’d built. He wanted to help his sibling gain some financial footing by allowing him to live rent-free for a while. After six months, Todd asked Alex to begin paying rent. Years later, Alex made an offer on his own home. When the offer was accepted, Todd surprised him by telling him that he’d deposited Alex’s rent payments in a savings account over the years and that the substantial sum of money was now his! Alex wept as he received the lavish gift. In Leviticus 25, God gave Moses commands for the Israelites that included allowing those in need “to live with you” (v. 35 nlt). This command was part of God enacting “a jubilee year”—when debts were forgiven, those in poverty were helped, and the enslaved were freed (vv. 23-55). He declared that He’d lovingly led His people “out of the land of Egypt to give [them] the land of Canaan and to be [their] God” (v. 38). He’d provided a new homeland, and now they were to imitate Him by showing love and opening their homes to others. The apostle John would later write, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God” (1 John 3:1). By Jesus’ sacrifice we can receive the fullness of that lavish love (v. 16). And as He helps us, we can lavish it on others.

Today, we are finally finishing Romans 9 as we talk about why religion doesn't work. We will wrestle with the question, “Is God unfair? Then we're going to take a fun little historical journey to see when the word “Israelite” became “Jew” even though nobody has ever asked that question! Join us as we continue in the book of Romans.

Today, we are finally finishing Romans 9 as we talk about why religion doesn't work. We will wrestle with the question, “Is God unfair? Then we're going to take a fun little historical journey to see when the word “Israelite” became “Jew” even though nobody has ever asked that question! Join us as we continue in the book of Romans.

In this episode, we dive into Deuteronomy 20–22, standing with the Israelites on the edge of the Promised Land, listening to Moses' reminders and instructions, and seeing God as their Commander-in-Chief who goes before them and never leaves their side. We explore the battles they will face, the nations they will encounter, and the instructions God gave to protect life, uphold justice, and prepare His people to live faithfully in the land He promised to Abraham all the way back in Genesis. We also walk through the everyday instructions — caring for neighbors, protecting property, honoring creation, and respecting marriage — and uncover the bigger principle: living faithfully, reflecting God's order, and trusting Him in every part of life. Along the way, we reflect on worship songs that capture these truths — "See a Victory", "Surrounded", and "Battle Belongs" — reminders that God fights for us in every battle — big, small, and everything in between. May these songs be the anthems of our hearts, reminding us of our God With Us who goes before us and never leaves our side. Gosh, that's so good. ❤ For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/deuteronomy-20-22/

Luke reported in his gospel that the disciples were commissioned by Jesus to preach the coming kingdom, cast out demons, and heal diseases while Jesus was still alive, but today's reading contains the first detailed eye-witness account of the apostles doing so and the first instance reported after Christ's ascension. Their fellow Israelites are amazed, and Peter uses the opportunity to preach the gospel, calling them to repent and trust in Christ. By the time they're finished, they earn the ire of the priests, temple police, and Sadducees, who don't want the name of Jesus to be proclaimed. The number of those converted included 5,000 men, which may represent only half of those converted. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Daily Dose of Hope February 18, 2026   Scripture: 2 Corinthians 3   Prayer:  Holy God, We are weary.  We are tired.  We need you.  You are great and mighty.  You are merciful and loving.  How we need that right now!  Lord, speak to us today.  We need to hear your voice.  We pray that your voice will be louder and clearer than all the other voices that crowd our thoughts.  Lord, in these next few moments of silence, please speak to us...  God, we give you all the glory.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  Happy Ash Wednesday.  If you live in the greater Brandon, Florida, area, I invite you to attend the New Hope Church Ash Wednesday service at 6:30pm in Logan Hall.  There will be meaningful worship, a brief message, and the imposition of ashes.   For our devotional, we are currently journeying through Paul's letters.  We have just started our fifth pastoral letter, 2 Corinthians.  Today, we are taking a look at chapter 3.  In the beginning of the chapter, Paul is explaining why he doesn't need letters of recommendation. Apparently, this was a common practice to provide letters that verified the authenticity of an apostle or leader. Paul mentions providing them in some of his other epistles but does not feel the need to have them for the church at Corinth. After all, he founded the Corinthian church so they should be well aware of his gifts and skills as an apostle. This whole discussion gives us a bigger picture of what Paul is dealing with-people are challenging his credentials and leadership. This must have been very distressing for Paul, who put so much love and self-sacrifice into his churches.   Paul then moves on to a discussion about boldness and spiritual blindness. He can be bold because there is no veil separating him from God. Remember, Moses had to pull a veil over his face when he went to speak with God to protect himself and the Israelites from God's powerful glory. It also reminds me of another veil-the curtain that separated the priest from the holiest of holies in the temple, where God's presence dwelt. Under the Old Covenant, there were many veils which served to protect people from God's power and glory. While it was for their protection, it was also a physical and spiritual separation.   Paul makes the point that even then, while the veil was technically gone, the Jews still behaved as if it was there; they experienced a spiritual blindness of sorts. But in Christ, there is freedom. There doesn't have to be separation from God or blind adherence to the Old Covenant. Christ introduced a new way of doing life, where the veil is gone, and we can now contemplate God's glory. In fact, through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can day by day be transformed into his likeness.   Verse 18 really resonates with me today. "...we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory..." This is sanctification. The more we grow in our walk with Jesus, the more we experience his grace and look more and more like him.   A question: do you look more like Jesus today than you did five years ago? Why or why not? What do you want to look like five years from now?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’” (1 Samuel 16:7 NLT) In our last devotion, we saw how God used Samuel because Samuel made himself available. Today, we’re going to look at another factor as we try to determine why God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Part of our human nature is to prefer heroes and leaders who come from central casting. People who look the part: tall, solidly built, and good-looking, with a chiseled jawline and a thick head of hair. God prefers a different criterion. Time and time again in Scripture, He defies conventional wisdom in choosing people to accomplish His will. When God sent Samuel to anoint the son of Jesse as the king of Israel, Jesse paraded every son but one in front of the prophet. He didn’t bother sending for David because he believed there was no way God would choose a lowly shepherd to lead His people. He was wrong. God revealed His criterion to Samuel in 1 Samuel 16:7: “Don’t judge by his appearance or height. . . . The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (NLT). A chapter later, when David traveled to the battlefield where the Israelites were squaring off with the Philistines, it wasn’t to fight the giant Goliath. It was to take food to his brothers on the front line. Fighting the Philistine champion was a job for King Saul or one of the battle-hardened soldiers in Saul’s army. But that’s not who God had in mind for the task. He sent the shepherd boy who was offended by Goliath’s taunts and who recognized that the giant was no match for God. He sent the only person who wasn’t paralyzed by fear. He sent the person for whom a weapon was an afterthought. He sent the person who would make sure that God would get the credit for the victory. God saw David’s heart. He sees our hearts as well—and He uses us accordingly. If you want to be used mightily by God, work on your heart. Hide God’s Word in it. Pour it out to Him in prayer. Love your neighbor, your enemies, and your fellow believers with all of it. If you have faith in God, if you believe that He can use you, if you are willing to take a step of faith here and there, then God can and will do incredible things through you. One thing I’ve said many times over the years is that God is not looking for ability but availability. He can give you ability in time. But God is looking for someone to say, “I would like to make a difference where I am. Lord, I am available.” If you do, just watch what God will do. Reflection question: What do you want God to see in your heart? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a modern phenomenon in a place like America of pushing many young people into a relentless pursuit of being perceived as a leader. The pressure is on! But just what does that mean in God's economy? Well, it means the pressure's off! Join Kevin as we take a look at three Bible passages that help bring discernment about God's ways in an era of omnipresent pressure on young people to be leaders! // Download this episode's Application & Action questions and PDF transcript at whitestone.org.

God's Four-Handed Provision #RTTBROS #Nightlight"And my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." — Philippians 4:19You know, I've been thinking about something that keeps coming up when I talk with folks who are worried about their finances, their future, their needs. We live in uncertain times, and it's easy to look at our bank accounts or our circumstances and wonder if God's really going to come through. But here's what I've learned, and I'm too soon old and too late smart on this one: God has always been in the providing business, and He uses four different hands to meet our needs.Man's Hand Let me take you back to the book of Exodus for a minute. The children of Israel are about to leave Egypt after 400 years of slavery. Now, you'd think they'd be leaving with nothing but the clothes on their backs, right? But look what happens. God moves the hearts of the Egyptians, and they give the Israelites gold, silver, and clothing. The Bible says they "spoiled the Egyptians" (Exodus 12:36). That's provision through man's hand. Later, Nehemiah needed resources to rebuild Jerusalem's walls, and God moved the heart of King Cyrus to provide everything he needed. Sometimes God provides through the generosity of others, even when we least expect it.God's HandBut then there are times when man's hand isn't enough, when no human source can meet the need. That's when God provides directly from His hand. Think about those same Israelites wandering in the wilderness. Every morning, manna covered the ground like dew. Water flowed from a rock. God Himself provided supernaturally what no human could give. Now, we don't live on miracles day to day, but we need to remember they happen in the lives of believers when we need them most.Your HandThen comes the third way, and this is where most of us live most of the time. God provides by your hands. When the Israelites finally crossed into the Promised Land, the manna stopped. They had to plant crops, tend flocks, work the land. The psalmist writes, "thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee" (Psalm 128:2). God blesses the work of our hands. He doesn't call us to sit around waiting for miracles when He's given us the ability to work.Your Enemy's HandBut here's the one that really gets me, the fourth way God provides that we almost never think about. God provides by our enemies' hands. When Caleb was looking at the giants in the land, do you remember what he said? Those giants would be "bread for us" (Numbers 14:9). What looked like an obstacle was actually provision. Your greatest challenge might just be God's way of bringing you your greatest blessing.So when you're worried about how God's going to provide, remember He's got four hands working on your behalf. Sometimes it's through people's generosity. Sometimes it's a flat-out miracle. Sometimes it's through honest work. And sometimes, that very thing you think is going to destroy you is actually going to feed you.Let's pray: Father, help us trust that You know how to provide for Your children. Whether it's through man's hand, Your hand, our hands, or even through our enemies, we know You will supply all our needs. Give us eyes to see Your provision in every circumstance. In Jesus' name, Amen.#Faith #GodsProvision #Trust #ChristianLiving #DailyDevotion #BiblicalWisdom #SpiritualGrowth #RTTBROS #NightlightBe sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Though it tarry, wait for it, it will not tarry...

The Israelites must slaughter and consume an unblemished lamb, foreshadowing the sacrifice of the sinless Lamb of God, Jesus Christ. We are likewise commanded to consume his flesh and blood sacramentally in the Eucharist.

The Great Rosary Campaign is an ongoing prayer and penance campaign for the conversion and strengthening of both Catholic and non-Catholic leaders.As a "Trekkie" (lover of Star Trek), we will be devoting several Great Rosary Campaigns to praying for the conversion of all remaining Star Trek cast members to the Catholic Faith.THIS WEEK of the Great Rosary Campaign: Star Trek Edition, we are praying for the conversion of Gates McFadden, who played Dr. Beverly Crusher, chief medical officer of the various Enterprises in "Star Trek: The Next Generation." Please join us in praying that she may "live long and prosper" unto eternal life.The SUGGESTED PENANCE this week is a Holy Hour before the Blessed Sacrament, the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist.In these dark times, we must fight evil with the most powerful weapons we have. The Rosary is foremost among them. Join the Great Rosary Campaign today at: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com.Countless Saints and Popes have told us that the Rosary is incredibly powerful for three things in particular:Keeping the FaithMoral renovationConversions of non-CatholicsThe Great Rosary Campaign is also based on several biblical themes and principles.First, PRAY FOR OUR BRETHREN. “Pray for one another…” (Jas. 5:16). “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6:10).Second, PRAY FOR OUR ENEMIES. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:43-44).Third, PRAY FOR ALL MEN, PARTICULARLY LEADERS AND THOSE IN AUTHORITY. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, or kings and all who are in high positions…” (1 Tim. 2:1-2).Fourth, GOING INTO BATTLE WITH THE ARK. When the ancient Israelites came to Jericho, God didn't tell them to besiege the city. Instead, He told them to march around it with the Ark of the Covenant seven times, and on the seventh the walls would fall. We will now "march" in prayer for seven days with the New Ark of the Covenant, Our Lady, through the Rosary. We pray in hope that on the seventh day, a day especially devoted to Our Lady (Saturday), extraordinary graces of conversion will be given to those we are praying for.Fifth, EVANGELISM AND APOLOGETICS = LOVE + ARGUMENTS + PRAYER + PENANCE. Ultimately it is God who reveals Himself to a soul, and empowers them to say "yes" to Him by His grace. He chooses to use us, but He does not have to. We must remember that as we evangelize and defend the Faith, our arguments will be fruitless unless informed by love (charity), and reinforced by prayer and penance.Sixth, RETURNING GOOD FOR EVIL. “Do not return evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but on the contrary bless, for to this you have been called, that you may obtain a blessing" (1 Pet. 3:9).Sign up to take part in the Great Rosary Campaign today: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com

Nothing can stop God's people… that is, nothing except for their own sin. This week in Numbers 25, the Israelites demonstrate how to derail the work God is doing in our church. And one man shows us why jealousy can actually be a good thing!

ABOUT THIS SERMON The sermon focuses on the First Commandment from Exodus 20 and explores the concept of putting God first in all areas of life. Pastor James emphasizes that the Ten Commandments were given as direction and guidance, not just as rules, and that they came in response to the Israelites seeking God's direction after their deliverance from Egypt. The sermon particularly emphasizes that whatever is first in our lives controls everything else, and God will not take second place in any area. 

Romans 11:1-4 — Has God cast away the Jewish people? After several passages concerning the fate of the Jewish nation, in this sermon on Romans 11:1–4 titled “Did God Reject His People?” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones unfolds how Paul asks this question and then follows his answers with several pieces of evidence. Paul says that there is no way the Lord has cast out His chosen people because Paul himself is an Israelite. Paul is saying this not just as a nationalist or proselyte, but he shows his historical lineage which proves he is of Jewish descent. It is possible that some Jews will be saved because Paul was saved. There are a large majority of Jews that do not believe the true gospel. God did not cast them all away because He foreknew them. This means that God foreordained them and knew that they would be believing Christians. The Jews were a group of people that God took special interest in and had a special affection for. Israel was set apart by God for a purpose. If God cast them out, this would mean that God changed His mind and Christians know that the Lord does not change His mind as it is not part of His character. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29?v=20251111