Podcasts about Israelites

We delve into the Sinai Covenant and the laws and teachings it encompasses. We discuss the fear of God and how it should motivate a pure and righteous life. The complexity of the Israelites' relationship with God is examined, along with an exploration of the regulations given by God, including slavery, restitution, and Sabbaths. We reflect on the importance of the Sabbath as the primary sign of the Sinai Covenant and conclude with the formal establishment of the Sinai Covenant with blood. Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

When the Assyrians carried off the 10 northern Israelite tribes, they imported pagans into Samaria. What is the nature of the religion these people then practiced, and why did Judeans despise them? Take a deep dive with us into the history of the Samaritans.

On our last episode we followed the trajectory of David's son Absalom, a handsome young man who had won the hearts of Israel by deception, telling those who came to King David that the king had no time for them. Absalom devises a coup to overthrow David, but his father catches wind of his plot and flees before he arrives. Today, David's men prepare for battle and meet the forces of Absalom's Israelite troops. The forest itself claims more lives than the sword, and Absalom meets his end at the hands of Joab. Later, David is restored as king, but not without personal turmoil. 2 Samuel 18 - 1:16 .  2 Samuel 19 - 9:41 .  2 Samuel 20 - 19:59 .  Psalm 83 - 25:38 .  :::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

In this message, Ps. Chris explores how movement—physical, spiritual, and intentional—can connect us to God. Drawing from biblical examples, from Adam walking with God in the garden to the Israelites circling Jericho, he shows that obedience, worship, and response often require action. Movement is more than exercise or ritual; it is a declaration of trust, a path to encounter God's presence, and a way to carry His authority. Listeners will learn how their daily steps, gestures, and intentional actions can position them to experience breakthrough, spiritual alignment, and deeper intimacy with God. Ps. Chris challenges the church to move beyond passivity, embrace obedience, and respond to God's voice with both body and spirit.

We see the people's fear as God descends upon Mount Sinai, God speaking the 10 commandments, and Israel's commitment to obedience. Join us as we ponder on the significance of these commandments, not just for the Israelites, but for the moral foundation of societies and civilizations. We also reflect on how the people's fear leads to Moses becoming a go-between, hearing God's words and conveying them to the people. Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

Hosts Pastor Robert Baltodano and Pastor Lloyd Pulley Question Timestamps: John, email (1:44) - Why did Saul come from the Tribe of Benjamin, when they were punished at the end of the book of Judges? How did the history of the civil war in Judges affect how people perceived Saul as king? Ed, NJ (6:01) - Am I sinning for taking communion at a Catholic Church? Susan, NJ (10:35) - Does God have dominion over the affairs of men, or do we have free will? Can we die prematurely, at an unintended time? Fredrick, NJ (18:33) - What do I tell people when they ask about whether good people will go to hell? David, Facebook (23:08) - Are we considered sinless now that we are clothed with the righteousness of Christ? Richard, NY (25:51) - How long were Adam and Eve in the garden? Luigi, NY (35:37) - Will priests and cardinals be held to the same account that the Pharisees and Sadducees were? Gracie, SC (40:38) - Were Jesus's parents Jews? Was Jesus Jewish? How can people hate the Jews, when that is the way to get to heaven? Michael, Facebook (47:19) - Is the use of alcohol morally wrong as a Christian? Carrie, YouTube (49:26) - Does Zechariah 14 verse 12 describe a nuclear weapon or a plague? Juana, NY (51:58) - Does the devil speak in tongues? Why are the Israelites the most holy people? Camille, NJ (54:40) - Our neighbors asked us to go to their daughter's lesbian wedding. Should we go? Ask Your Questions: Call: 888-712-7434 Email: Answers@bbtlive.org

Today is our second sermon in Christopher's new series, 'Getting to Know God: Exploring the Doctrine of the Trinity'. In this sermon, we look at how Moses teaches the Israelites that there is one God who exists and one God whom they should worship. Listen to learn more! Thanks for Listening...LAKEVIEW MISSIONARY CHURCH810 S. Evergreen Dr.Moses Lake, WA 98837509-765-5270www.LakeviewMissionaryChurch.comPastor Christopher sends a weekly update to our church every Wednesday with an encouraging article, prayer requests, and announcements. Subscribe here, http://eepurl.com/hC7SHDScripture taken from the New American Standard Bible, Copyright The Lockman Foundation 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995. Used by permission.

When Oswald and Biddy Chambers ran a Bible college in London from 1911 to 1915, they continued with their life principle of not turning away those in need. Astute Londoners were aghast at this practice, thinking the college would be taken advantage of. In response, Oswald observed, without inviting others to follow in the practice, “My responsibility is to give. God will look after who asks.” The couple followed the example of our generous Creator. Through His instructions to Moses, God laid out gracious ways for His people to live and serve others, including giving of their food and possessions. Moses told the Israelites at the end of every three years to “bring all the tithes” so the Levites, “foreigners, the fatherless and the widows,” could come and “eat and be satisfied” (Deuteronomy 14:28-29). Through the generosity of His people, God cares for the vulnerable. The Chambers’ trust in God was so strong that they gave willingly and without question. They’d learned to “revere . . . God always” (v. 23) and receive His blessing “in all the work of [their] hands” (v. 29). We may also feel inspired to give freely while we lean on God for wisdom and discernment. We know that our generous God will lead and guide as He provides for the foreigners, the fatherless, and the widows.

What happens when God's people trade prophetic guidance for political power? In this thought-provoking episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines, Lynne Hilton Wilson dives into 1 Samuel 8–16 to explore Israel's pivotal—and perilous—shift from prophets to kings. As the Israelites demand a king “like all the nations,” the prophet Samuel delivers a sobering warning about what monarchy will bring: oppression, inequality, and a distancing from God. Lynne unpacks Samuel's prophetic counsel and examines why the desire for a king represented more than a political change—it was a spiritual turning point rooted in fear, comparison, and misplaced trust. The episode then follows the rise and fall of King Saul, whose early promise gives way to insecurity, disobedience, and jealousy. As Saul begins to forget God, his fixation on power leads him to see young David as a threat rather than the Lord's anointed. Lynne explores Saul's tragic descent and the tension between divine will and human ambition, highlighting the consequences of choosing earthly authority over spiritual guidance.

Ruth Had Nothing to Offer by Autumn Dickson Ruth was a woman in an extremely vulnerable position, and she placed herself in an even more vulnerable position with Boaz. Let's talk about it, and let's talk about how it relates to us. Ruth was a Moabite who followed her mother-in-law to Bethlehem. She was not originally part of God's people, but she voluntarily chose to be a part of them at great risk to herself. She was vulnerable as a widow, and she was stepping into a life of poverty by following after her mother-in-law instead of going back to live in her father's house. Not only did she face poor circumstances and the necessity of providing for herself and Naomi by gleaning the fields, she likewise faced potential ridicule and social rejection because of her foreign status. But she wanted to be with Naomi and follow after the God of Israel, so she chose that sacrifice. After spending some time in Bethlehem, taking care of Naomi and gathering up meager amounts of food from hard work, Ruth put herself in an even more vulnerable position. Boaz, a respected and wealthy man in the area, had taken note of Ruth and took steps to make sure she was okay. After hearing about Boaz watching out for Ruth, Naomi encourages Ruth to essentially propose to Boaz. According to the direction of Naomi, Ruth follows Boaz to the threshing floor one night, uncovers his feet, and goes to sleep there. Boaz wakes up and finds her, and she asks him to essentially take her under his wing. She asks him to marry her and bring her into his protection. Boaz agrees to do so if another relative relinquishes his first claim upon her. In order to understand the vulnerability that Ruth found herself in, it's important to understand the context of the threshing floor. Threshing floors were not inherently evil; they were community spaces where people went and prepared their different grains to finish the harvesting process. However, threshing floors were associated with a celebratory period that sometimes got out of hand. It was a male-dominated space, and there was drinking. It was not uncommon for prostitution. Let it be known, it was also common for wealthy men to sleep there and protect their grain piles. Boaz wasn't there to get in trouble; he was there to protect his grain. And yet, I want to highlight the potential danger for Ruth. Naomi trusted the integrity of Boaz and sent Ruth anyway. Beyond just protecting her, here is an extra thing that Boaz did for her. Ruth 3:14 And she lay at his feet until the morning: and she rose up before one could know another. And he said, Let it not be known that a woman came into the floor. So Boaz protected her in every sense of the word. He could have taken advantage of her and probably gotten away with it. He could have thrown her to the wolves and ruined her reputation. As an outsider, she already faced scrutiny. She could have been branded a loose woman and made herself ineligible for future marriage. Regardless of whether it's just or moral that he had the power to do this is a question for another day. The fact remains that he did have power to do so, and he didn't. Not only did he avoid taking advantage of her, he also protected her from potential shame. If we generalize some of these ideas, we might find some personal parallels in our relationship with Jesus Christ. Here are a couple of reflections. 1) Boaz didn't actually have a responsibility to take care of Ruth. It is important to note that Boaz didn't have to legally take care of Ruth. In ancient Israelite custom, a brother of the dead husband would marry the widow and buy the land to keep the inheritance in the family. Boaz was a more distant relative. He was eligible but not required. It wasn't expected of him. In fact, the relative who was closer to her wanted the land but refused when he found out he would also inherit Ruth. Boaz married Ruth. He went above and beyond what was required of him to protect her. And how poignant is that? Christ was eligible to save us but not obligated. He chose to do it. He wanted to protect us. 2) She had nothing to offer Boaz except loyalty and need. Boaz didn't reap any benefit for marrying Ruth other than receiving her love and gratitude. Even beyond the fact that he didn't have a legal obligation, he was essentially bringing on “dead weight.” I understand that sounds heartless, but let me expound. Boaz had the option of marrying advantageously. He had to pay to get the land that had belonged to Ruth's previous husband; it didn't just come to him. He could have married someone that would have contributed to his own wealth or social standing without any complications of marrying a foreigner. Not to mention, any children he had with Ruth would be considered heirs of her first husband. That's why the other relative had refused. It endangered his personal estate. Boaz was willing to pay the price for kindness. Obviously Ruth had value as a human being. However, when she is logically compared with other options, she isn't bringing much to the table. Sound familiar? We hold very limited benefit in the traditional sense. Even as long-term investments, the Lord gives us everything we have and then gives us more when we try to serve Him. We don't offer much. And yet, Christ knows the value of being loved in return. Boaz recognized a woman who would add much more to his home despite the costs. He watched her love Naomi, and he knew that she would be the kind of person that brings joy. Christ is willing to pay the price of kindness, and He recognizes that investments don't necessarily bring joy. Our loyalty and gratitude and willingness bring joy. 3) And then, of course, the point I highlighted before: Ruth was vulnerable and Boaz protected her. Ruth could have been ridiculed and rejected. She was already prone to it because she was born a Moabite. It became that much more dangerous when she voluntarily chose to approach Boaz on the threshing floor. Someday we will stand vulnerable before the Lord. Someday we will live in a time where secrets are shouted from the rooftops. What secrets are you worried about? What do you want protected and kept private? I testify of a Lord who “forgets” our sins when we repent. I believe in a Lord who is willing to cover for us and take us under His protection. I believe in a Lord whose name is so powerful that we don't have to fear rejection and ridicule. He covers us when we approach Him in faith and humility. He doesn't despise our weakness; He honors it by taking it upon Himself. I testify of a Lord who pays the price of kindness and simply wants our love in return. It brings Him joy. Do not withhold it from Him. Do not withhold yourself from Him. He loves you. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Ruth; 1 Samuel 1–7 – Part 1 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

Welcome to Day 2873 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2873 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 132:6-12 Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2873 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2873 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. The title for today's Wisdom-Trek is: The Song of Ascent – The Enthronement of the Ark on the Holy Mountain In our previous episode on this grand expedition, we stepped onto the thirteenth ridge of our fifteen-part pilgrim journey through the Songs of Ascents. We explored the opening section of Psalm One Hundred Thirty-Two, verses one through five. We witnessed the unyielding, sleepless passion of King David. Even though he had a quiet, weaned soul within himself, he refused to enjoy the private luxury of his cedar palace while the Ark of the Covenant remained neglected in a temporary tent. We examined his solemn vow to the Mighty One of Jacob, a vow of deliberate restlessness, where he refused to sleep until he found a permanent, sacred space—a cosmic embassy—where the True King of heaven and earth could establish His earthly footstool. Today, we take our next historic step forward, continuing directly from that narrative. We are entering into the second movement of this grand, processional anthem, exploring Psalm One Hundred Thirty-Two, verses six through twelve, in the New Living Translation. The psalmist shifts our focus from David's private, intense vow, to the corporate, joyful experience of the entire nation as they actually locate, recover, and march with the symbol of God's presence up the mountain. Let us step onto the rugged trail, join the ancient procession, and watch the Divine Warrior ascend His throne. The first segment is:The Discovery and the Procession to the Footstool Psalm One Hundred Thirty-Two: verses six and seven. We heard that the Ark was in Ephrathah; then we found it in the distant countryside of Jaar. Let us go to the sanctuary of the Lord; let us worship at the footstool of his throne. The narrative transitions from David's intense, singular obsession, to the collective voice of the Israelite community, singing together on the road to Jerusalem. “We heard that the Ark was in Ephrathah; then we found it in the distant countryside of Jaar.” To fully appreciate the deep, emotional relief embedded in these two names—Ephrathah and Jaar—we must recall the tragic, historical backstory. Decades earlier, during the chaotic days of Eli the priest, the Israelites had foolishly treated the Ark of the Covenant like a magical good-luck charm, dragging it onto the battlefield against the Philistines. The rebel spiritual forces operating behind the Philistine armies achieved a temporary, mocking victory; the Ark was captured, and the glory of God seemed to depart from Israel. Even after the Philistines returned the Ark due to divine plagues, it sat neglected, stashed away in the obscure, overgrown, and wooded fields of Kiriath-jearim—which the psalmist poetically calls the “distant countryside of Jaar.” It was hidden in the brush, largely forgotten by the general public, while the nation drifted spiritually. But David mobilized the nation. The pilgrims recount the great rally: “Let us go to the sanctuary of the Lord; let us worship at the footstool of his throne.” We must view this through the profound lens of the Ancient Israelite Divine Council worldview, as masterfully taught by Doctor Michael S. Heiser. In the ancient Near East, a supreme monarch sat on a high, elevated throne, and his feet rested upon a beautifully crafted footstool. The footstool was the critical point of contact where the heavenly, royal realm physically touched the lower, earthly domain. In cosmic geography, the Ark of the Covenant, positioned inside the Holy of Holies beneath the outstretched wings of the golden cherubim, was recognized as the literal footstool of Yahweh's heavenly throne room. When the pilgrims say, “let us worship at the footstool of his throne,” they are not merely engaging in formal temple rituals. They are entering the earthly embassy of the Supreme Commander of the cosmos. They are stepping into the direct presence of the High King, joining the heavenly assembly of loyal angels, and declaring that Yahweh's authority completely eclipses the claims of the rebel spiritual principalities who rule over the surrounding, disinherited nations. The second segment is: The Divine Warrior Takes His Seat Psalm One Hundred Thirty-Two: verses eight through ten. Arise, O Lord, and enter your resting place, along with the Ark, the symbol of your power. May your priests be clothed in godliness; may your loyal servants sing for joy. For the sake of your servant David, do not reject the king you have anointed. The procession reaches its absolute climax as the Ark is physically carried up the slopes of Mount Zion. The king and the priests raise a dramatic, liturgical shout to the heavens: “Arise, O Lord, and enter your resting place, along with the Ark, the symbol of your power.” This phrase, “Arise, O Lord,” is a direct, intentional echo of the ancient wilderness battle cry recorded in Numbers, chapter ten. Whenever the Ark of the Covenant set out from the camp to lead the tribes through the desert, Moses would stand and shout, “Arise, O Lord, and let your enemies be scattered!” It was the invocation of Yahweh Sabaoth—the Lord of Hosts, the Commander of the heavenly armies. But notice the fascinating, beautiful shift in Psalm One Hundred Thirty-Two. The Divine Warrior is no longer marching out to do battle in the wilderness; He is marching in to take His seat. He is entering His “resting place.” In the Deuteronomy Thirty-Two framework, the rebel gods claimed ownership over the nations, but Yahweh has chosen Zion as His permanent, centralized cosmic mountain. By placing the Ark—the symbol of His power—on Mount Zion, Yahweh is establishing an unshakeable, eternal fortress. The warfare is completed; the King is officially taking His seat on the throne. This supreme, cosmic installation requires an entirely transformed community to serve the King. Verse nine petitions: “May your priests be clothed in godliness; may your loyal servants sing for joy.” The priests, who act as the human mediators between the heavenly council and the earthly congregation, must not wear the corrupt, manipulative garments of the pagan fertility cults. They must be literally wrapped, clothed, and saturated in tsedeq—true, uncompromised godliness and righteousness. When the leadership is holy, the entire community flourishes. The "loyal servants"—the hasidim, the covenant-keeping exiles—break out into uninhibited, roaring songs of joy. Their worship becomes a defensive shield, keeping the chaos of the world outside the walls of the sanctuary. The processional prayer concludes with a crucial plea for the continuation of the dynasty: “For the sake of your servant David, do not reject the king you have anointed.” The human king, the Mashiach, the anointed one, serves a vital function in the Divine Council worldview. He is designated as Yahweh's earthly vice-regent. He is the human representative who executes the justice, and the cosmic order of the High King, within the physical realm. The pilgrims pray that God will look at the faithful, historical sacrifices of David, and refuse to reject the current, fragile human king who sits on David's throne. They need the line of the vice-regent to remain unbroken, so that the connection to the cosmic mountain remains secure. The third segment is: The Reciprocal Oath of Eternity Psalm One Hundred Thirty-Two: verses eleven and twelve. The Lord swore an oath to David with a promise he will never take back: “I will place one of your descendants on your throne. If your descendants obey the terms of my covenant and the laws that I teach them, then your royal line will continue forever and ever.” In the final section of today's trail, the direction of the song flips completely. The pilgrims have finished speaking to God, and now, Yahweh speaks back to the pilgrims. He responds to David's historic, restless vow with a massive, unyielding oath of His own. “The Lord swore an oath to David with a promise he will never take back: ‘I will place one of your descendants on your throne.'” This is the beautiful, reciprocal irony of the Davidic covenant. In the first five verses of this psalm, David...

We explore Israel's journey through the wilderness, where their discontentment escalates, leading them to threaten Moses' life for the lack of water. Despite their unfaithfulness, God provides water from a rock at Horeb. Following this, the Israelites are attacked by the Amalekites. However, through God's intervention and Moses' prayer, they prevail in the battle. We also meet Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, a non-Israelite priest who praises God for his deliverance of the Israelites. Despite witnessing God's power and provision, the Israelites continue to grumble and test God, failing to honor him as Jethro does. Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

As a teenager, I had a strained relationship with my churchmate Lisa, so I was dismayed to learn we’d be roommates at our youth summer camp. The week at camp passed smoothly though, with both of us being civil. The most anticipated event was a bonfire gathering at the end of the week. On that evening, however, I had a fever. I went to bed early, but I could hear the laughter and music outside. An hour later, I was startled by Lisa, who was taking my temperature. “I’m not joining them at the bonfire,” she said. “You’re sick. I need to stay with you.” Lisa could’ve stayed uninvolved, but she chose to care for me, which lifted my spirits. We see another example of someone who cared in the story of Naaman. The commander of the Syrian army, Naaman had an Israelite servant girl who’d been taken captive and now “served Naaman’s wife” (2 Kings 5:2). Separated from family and forced to servitude, the girl could’ve chosen to not help her master, who had leprosy. But her faith moved her to help: “She said to her mistress, ‘If only my master would see the prophet who is in Samaria! He would cure him” (v. 3). And God did, in fact, use the prophet Elisha to heal Naaman (vv. 8-14). Lisa and the Israelite girl chose to help, and God worked through them. Let’s ask God to show us who we can extend His care to and give us the wisdom how.

In the Old Testament, prophets were equipped by God to illuminate His purpose for the people. One such leader, Zechariah, rallied the Jewish people after their Babylonian exile, using a “hope-ray vision” that was vibrant, revealing, and galvanizing. His powerful visions, bold promises, and vivid prophecies revealed God's heart to protect, restore, and lead His people. And that message still rings true today. Join Horizon at the Equipping Services for a verse-by-verse journey through ZECHARIAH as we see how Christ-followers, like the Israelites before us, can rediscover hope by looking deep into God's work.

In this conversation with Rabbanit Karen Miller Jackson, we discuss the spy story in the book of Yehoshua, read as this week's Haftarah, and why Rachav is the inspiring 'other' archetype of Israelite society. This week's episode has been dedicated by Debby Sondheim in loving memory of her late husband Fred Distenfeld, Ephraim Uri ben Menachem Mani and Esther

There are moments in life when we've prayed, weighed the options, and sought wisdom — and still have to make a decision without knowing how it all turns out. In Joshua 3, the Israelites find themselves at the Jordan River at flood stage. God doesn't part the water first. He asks them to step in. In this message, we look at what it means to follow a God who goes before us into unknown territory, how preparation and consecration shape

“Into the Water”Joshua 3:1-171 Early in the morning Joshua and all the Israelites set out from Shittim and went to the Jordan, where they camped before crossing over. 2 After three days the officers went throughout the camp, 3 giving orders to the people: “When you see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God, and the Levitical priests carrying it, you are to move out from your positions and follow it. 4 Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before. But keep a distance of about two thousand cubits[a] between you and the ark; do not go near it.”5 Joshua told the people, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.”6 Joshua said to the priests, “Take up the ark of the covenant and pass on ahead of the people.” So they took it up and went ahead of them.7 And the Lord said to Joshua, “Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses. 8 Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant: ‘When you reach the edge of the Jordan's waters, go and stand in the river.'”9 Joshua said to the Israelites, “Come here and listen to the words of the Lord your God. 10 This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that he will certainly drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites and Jebusites. 11 See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you. 12 Now then, choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe. 13 And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the Lord—the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap.”14 So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carrying the ark of the covenant went ahead of them. 15 Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water's edge, 16 the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away, at a town called Adam in the vicinity of Zarethan, while the water flowing down to the Sea of the Arabah (that is, the Dead Sea) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. 17 The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stopped in the middle of the Jordan and stood on dry ground, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.CONNECT WITH USIf you have any questions or would like to get to know us further, head over to https://www.triumphlbc.org/connect and fill out our online connection card.ABOUT TRIUMPHTriumph wants to see the life and message of Jesus transform your heart, home, and city. To learn more visit https://www.triumphlbc.org/

Pastor Mark Potter explores the theme that believers never face life's battles alone, drawing parallels between his own fight with cancer and the biblical story of the Amalekites. He recounts how the Israelites secured victory in Exodus 17 through the combined efforts of Joshua on the battlefield and Moses, Aaron, and Hur on the hilltop. By highlighting how Moses needed others to hold up his hands in prayer, Pastor Potter emphasizes the necessity of community support and divine reliance during periods of exhaustion. He encourages the congregation to memorialize God's faithfulness as a spiritual practice to sustain future generations through hardship. Ultimately, the message points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate mediator and "man on the middle cross" who secures victory over sin and death. Pastor Potter concludes that salvation and strength are found not in personal merit, but in rallying around Christ as the source of triumph.Support the showThanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook or Instagram more info colonialkc.org

God's Mercy With Gideon's Doubt by Autumn Dickson The book of Judges records a time period in which Israel had no centralized prophet. There was apostasy and partial restorations as the Israelites would sway into worshipping like the Canaanites did. The Lord sometimes sent judges to help Israel against their enemies. These judges were charismatic, military leaders. Some of the judges would save all of Israel; other judges were more regional. Gideon was one of these regional judges, primarily protecting Manasseh, Asher, Zebulun, Naphtali, and Ephraim. Gideon is interesting because he struggled with his faith in the Lord, and yet, the Lord was merciful. There are plenty of instances in the scriptures where the Lord doesn't seem to respond to that very well. Right after the Red Sea parted, the Israelites demanded a sign of Moses to show his favor with God. They were complaining and challenging Moses to show a sign. The place was named Massah as a memorial to their lack of faith. When Zechariah was told that his wife would have a son, he didn't believe it because she was old. He was struck as a mute. Thomas the apostle was likewise rebuked for his lack of faith. Gideon receives not just one, but multiple signs from the Lord. The angel burns up his offering to the Lord. His blanket is covered with dew while the ground is dry one night; his blanket is dry while the ground is wet one night. As he stands in the camp with his 300 men to go against the Midianites, the Lord encourages him to go spy on the Midianites and see what they're saying in order to receive comfort. He does so and overhears a Midianite sharing a dream in which a barley loaf came and flattened a tent. The Midianite's companion interprets it as God helping Israel defeat them. Here is Gideon's response. Judges 7:15 And it was so, when Gideon heard the telling of the dream, and the interpretation thereof, that he worshipped, and returned into the host of Israel, and said, Arise; for the Lord hath delivered into your hand the host of Midian. Multiple signs! God continually blesses Gideon and gives him signs to encourage him along. In fact, Gideon didn't even ask for the last sign. The Lord just gave it to him, and He gave it to Gideon in a powerful way. It would have been one thing to send a dream to Gideon about defeating the Midianites. It would have been easy for Gideon to wonder if it was just wishful thinking. In comparison, hearing the mighty Midianites have a dream and interpret it as defeat by the Israelites was much more powerful in calming Gideon's fears. So why did Gideon get multiple signs while others seem to be rebuked for asking for the same thing? I think there are a lot of reasons because the Lord works according to individual circumstances, but I want to talk about two potential reasons that can be applied in our own lives as we work to approach the Lord. The first reason the Lord was willing to work with Gideon is because the Lord is wise enough to understand that Gideon didn't have much of a relationship with the Lord. The fact that his father had a Baal altar implies that Gideon's family had fallen into idolatry. How much did Gideon know about God? We know Gideon had some knowledge of God because he asks about the deliverance from Egypt, but how much had Gideon experienced God? There's a difference. How much could the Lord reasonably expect Gideon to trust Him? The Lord knew Gideon, but did Gideon know the Lord? The Lord isn't looking for blind, obedient dogs. He is looking to have a true relationship with us. The fact that Gideon was cautious about running into danger isn't a sign that Gideon is faithless; it is more an indication that Gideon did not yet know the Lord. So what does this teach us about our own lives? The Lord will not begrudge us the time it takes to learn how to trust Him; He doesn't mind allowing us to approach Him until we've built up a number of encounters and start to understand His character. David fought off two wild animals before he fought off Goliath. We recently read about Moses whose trust in the Lord was extremely fragile in the beginning; Moses grew to the point where he encouraged the Israelites to have faith in the face of certain death even though he did not yet know the plan for rescue. The Old Testament gives us a front row seat to watching people experience the Lord and grow in their trust of Him. In contrast, imagine a powerful stranger coming up to you and saying, “Trust me.” When you ask them why you should trust them, they respond with, “Because I told you to.” Um…what? You may not immediately hate them or be wary of them, but you're not going to give them your darkest secrets or social security number (or hopefully you won't…). The Lord understands that He is a stranger to us; He is the one who put the veil there. He understands that we need experiences with Him before we're ready to run into danger when He asks. Once again, He isn't looking for blind, obedient dogs. He wants His children to be wise and consciously and voluntarily choose Him. He gave Gideon experiences because Gideon likely hadn't had many previously. He was patient with Israel. He was patient with Moses. The Lord has no problem being patient. If He seems impatient in specific scenarios, we can usually assume it's for the benefit of the person He is working with. He is trying to get their attention or get them moving. Which leads me to my second reason: The Lord allowed Gideon to approach Him multiple times for signs because Gideon's heart was soft. Over and over and over and over and over we read about the Lord responding with intensity in response to a hard heart and responding with mercy and encouragement to a soft heart. Gideon's heart was obviously soft. Look at this verse. Judges 6:17 And he said unto him, If now I have found grace in thy sight, then shew me a sign that thou talkest with me. Gideon approaches the Lord so humbly. When the angel gave him a sign, Gideon immediately built an altar unto the Lord. That night, Gideon went and took down the altar of Baal according to the direction of the Lord. We see this multiple times with Gideon. He approaches the Lord in humility and asks for help knowing the truth. Gideon was willing to follow the truth and power and peace; Gideon was just trying to make sure he was looking in the right direction before moving forward. It is only when we've closed our heart off to that truth and power and peace that the Lord shakes the earth to reach us. I think of the Egyptians that saw all the same signs as the Israelites but didn't bother to ask whether they should follow after the same God as the Israelites. I think of Rahab and her people. The Canaanites were all terrified, but it didn't change who they put their faith in. Only Rahab was willing to follow the Israelite God and was spared because of it. You would think that people would open their eyes and ask, “Is there something here?” You would think that they would pause long enough and open their hearts so that the Lord could speak to them. Gideon asked, but Gideon was likewise prepared to follow through. This was part of why the Lord was so willing to encourage him along. I testify of a Lord that responds with wisdom. He knows what He is doing. He will not condemn us for approaching Him for reassurances if we're doing so with the intent to follow after Him. He doesn't even condemn us when we struggle; His intensity is not a sign of condemnation. It's a sign of God's love in trying to reach us! However the Lord is working in your life, you can take it with the perspective that He is trying to do what's best for you. I'm grateful for a Lord who is wise and can train me so purposefully and deliberately. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16 – Part 2 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

We journey with the Israelites as they navigate life after the great Exodus. Grappling with thirst and hunger in the wilderness, they grumble and question God's provision. Yet, God miraculously provides, sweetening bitter water and providing bread from heaven. These acts are not just miracles, but tests of obedience and faith. As the Israelites collect manna six days a week and rest on the Sabbath, they reflect God's example from creation.Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

Jesus Followers Have the Important Gospel Communication Tool – Their Life in Christ Lets Others See Jesus in Them MESSAGE SUMMARY:  In 2 Corinthians 3:12-18, Paul writes a complex statement that tells you, as a follower of Jesus, about the most important tool that God gives you for communicating the Gospel -- God lets others see Jesus in you through your life in Christ! Therefore, by living in Christ, your life becomes the most compelling argument for the Gospel – an argument that far surpasses written or spoken words. Paul's 2 Corinthians 3:12-18 text reads: “Since we have such a hope, we are very bold, not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face so that the Israelites might not gaze at the outcome of what was being brought to an end. But their minds were hardened. For to this day, when they read the old covenant, that same veil remains unlifted, because only through Christ is it taken away. Yes, to this day whenever Moses is read a veil lies over their hearts. But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”. Do others, from your life, see Jesus in you?   TODAY'S PRAYER: Father, I confess that when difficulties and trials come into my life, large or small, I mostly grumble and complain. I realize the trials James talks about are not necessarily “walls,” but they are difficult to bear, nonetheless. Fill me with such a vision of a transformed life, O God, that I might actually consider it “pure joy” when you bring trials my way. I believe, Lord. Help my unbelief. In Jesus' name, amen.  Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 94). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Insensitivity. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Gentleness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Isiah 35:1-9; John 1:14; Isaiah 11:1-2; Psalms 44b:14-26. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “The Day of Pentecost – The Promise Fulfilled” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

→ Watch on YouTube → Detailed Show Notes → Timestamps: (00:00) Ruth, a Moabite, becomes a central character in Israel's history as the great-grandmother of King David, through whose line comes Jesus Christ. Her story shows that God is the God of the whole world.(10:52) After becoming a widow, Ruth goes to Bethlehem and gleans in the fields of Boaz. The Law commanded that owners “not reap the corners of their fields,” thus providing for the poor.(13:53) How Boaz symbolizes Christ and how Ruth represents all of us coming unto him to be redeemed.(23:15) Ruth proposes marriage to Boaz. The threshing floor as a symbol for covenants and the temple. Jesus says “I will gather my people as a man gathereth his sheaves into the floor.”(29:46) The other kinsman that has claim upon Ruth can be seen as a symbol of Jesus reconciling and paying our debts for the things that have claim on us. God will compensate us for the difficult times in our lives.(33:03) All the characters in the story of Ruth are demonstrating hesed, or covenant love. The image of the circle and square coming together as a symbol for the union of heaven and earth.(38:46) In the Book of Samuel, Hannah comes to the tabernacle at Shiloh to pray for God to give her a son. Like Hannah, all of us experience times of deprivation, even when it is a righteous desire we seek.(43:02) Hannah's prayer led to the birth of Samuel and then an even more abundant blessing of many children. God is bounteous in his loving kindness.(45:39) The Song of Hannah as a triumphant song of praise and overcoming adversity. It gives reference to the King, but there is no monarchy yet. This song can be seen as a prophecy of the Savior and contains temple imagery.(49:13) Eli's sons reject the Lord, so Samuel will take their place as High Priest.(50:08) The Lord calls young Samuel to be a prophet, but he doesn't immediately understand. Eli helps him open his ears. Sometimes we brush off impressions as coincidence, but oftentimes they are revelation.(54:32) Samuel is recognized as a prophet. Prophets advise Israel's kings and when they listen to the prophet they are blessed.(57:42) The Israelites are defeated by the Philistines. Eli and his sons die. Samuel exhorts Israel to serve the Lord and the Philistines are subdued. → For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here. → Enroll in Institute → YouTube → Apple Podcasts → Spotify → Amazon Music → Facebook The post Ep 374 | Ruth; 1 Samuel 1-7, Come Follow Me 2026 (June 1-7) appeared first on LDS Scripture Teachings.

When Frances Xavier Cabrini stepped onto the shores of America, she didn't arrive with power or privilege — she arrived as a woman, a foreigner, and someone who understood firsthand what it felt like to be overlooked. That lived experience became the very foundation of her extraordinary ministry to immigrants, orphans, the poor, and the forgotten. In this episode, Sophia Bricker draws a thread from Mother Cabrini's life all the way back to the Israelites in Egypt — a people who knew the sting of being strangers in a foreign land — and forward to us today, asking a quietly convicting question: do we love our neighbors the way God loves them? God's instruction to the Israelites was rooted in remembrance — you were once the foreigner, so love the foreigner among you. Jesus affirmed that same call in the greatest commandments, and the parable of the Good Samaritan made clear that our "neighbor" reaches far beyond those who look and live like us. We may not be building orphanages around the world, but the opportunities to extend a hand of welcome, to defend the cause of the needy, and to bring light into dark places are all around us — in our communities, our workplaces, and our homes — if we are willing to look. Bible Verse "He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing. And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt." — Deuteronomy 10:18-19, NIV Ponder Today Your past struggle can become your greatest ministry. Frances Cabrini and the Israelites both served others better because of what they had endured. God doesn't waste our hard experiences — He uses them to soften our hearts toward others. Loving your neighbor is not optional. Jesus named it as the second greatest commandment (Mark 12:30-31). It is not a suggestion for those with extra time or resources — it is a call extended to every follower of Christ. Your neighbor is broader than you think. The parable of the Good Samaritan dismantles every boundary we place around who deserves our love. Our neighbor includes those who are different from us in ethnicity, nationality, and circumstance. Small acts of love are never insignificant. Whatever is done for the poor, the hungry, and the stranger is done for Christ Himself (Matthew 25:34-40). You don't need a platform or a position of influence — you need willingness. Don't let fear, politics, or opinion stop you from doing what is right. The call to love our neighbors can feel complicated in today's world, but God's standard has not changed. Step out in faith and trust Him to guide you to the opportunities He has already prepared. A Prayer for You Today Great God and Defender of the widow and orphan, I confess I often struggle to know how to reach out to those around me who are in need. Guide me to the opportunities where I can use the gifts and resources You've given me to bless and serve others. Keep me from letting fear, politics, or the opinions of others prevent me from doing what I know to be right. Help me to remember that by welcoming the stranger, I am welcoming You. In Your name, Amen. Don't Miss an Episode If today's prayer stirred your heart to love more boldly, we'd love to stay connected. Subscribe to the LifeAudio newsletter at LifeAudio.com for daily prayers, devotionals, and more content to inspire your faith in action every day. If you like this podcast, be sure to check out our sister podcast, Your Nightly Prayer - an evening Christian prayer podcast to help you end your day in conversation with God. https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We explore the Exodus where Moses leads the Israelites out of Egypt, and God delivers His people in a miraculous way. We witness the power of God as He parts the Red Sea, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground while confounding the Egyptian army. Despite their initial fear and doubt, the Israelites experience the faithfulness and might of God, reinforcing their belief in Him and His servant, Moses.Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

Numbers 6 introduces the long-enduring institution of the Nazirite and memorializes one of the oldest documented Hebrew prayers.While the Levitical priesthood was strictly a hereditary role, the Nazirite vow offered a democratic, merit-based path. It allowed any individual to dedicate themselves fully to God and consecrate themselves like a priest. This remarkable institution lasted in Israel for 2,000 years.The chapter concludes with one of the most enduring blessings in human history. God gave this exact phrasing to Moses to pass on to Aaron and his sons to use when blessing the Israelites. Today, the Aaronic blessing remains one of the most recognizable biblical passages to every Jew and Christian.Archaeology has confirmed the antiquity of these words. The Ketef Hinnom silver scrolls, found in 1979, contain the Aaronic blessing. They are the oldest biblical text ever found, even 500 years older than the Dead Sea Scrolls. Next time you sing The Blessing at church, know that you are singing lyrics that are 2600 years old.Support the showConsider donating (one-time or recurring) to www.TheJerusalemConnection.us so we can continue to bring valuable content via podcasts free to the public. Help us increase our audience reach and improve production quality. Your donation is 100% tax-deductible to our non-profit organization. Bible Fiber and The Red Alert Report are available via YouTube and all major podcast platforms. The Jerusalem Connection also engages in additional educational and advocacy programs. Check our "Projects" tab for all the endeavors we invite YOU to be part of.

Malachi's final disputation exposes Israel's despairing complaint: “It is vain to serve God.” Peter Leithart, Jeff Meyers, Alastair Roberts, and James Bejon explore the loss of confidence that comes when the wicked seem to prosper and the righteous appear unrewarded. Along the way the conversation moves through Psalm 73, Job, the biblical shape of the problem of evil, the difference between short-term reward and eschatological vindication, and the priestly language of serving and guarding that echoes Adam's task in Eden. The episode closes with Malachi's surprising portrait of the faithful remnant: those who fear the Lord, speak with one another, and are written in His book of remembrance as His treasured possession — a remnant finally distilled in Jesus, the faithful Israelite. GIVE TO THEOPOLIS! theopolisinstitute.com/give/ Get the Theopolis App! app.theopolisinstitute.com/menu Use Code "theopolitan" to get your first month free! Sign up for In Medias Res mailchi.mp/0b01d726f2fe/inmediasres

When the Israelites were trapped between the Red Sea and Pharaoh's army, panic spread quickly through the camp. Yet Moses gave a powerful command: “Do not fear. Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord.” In this encouraging message, Pastor Jeff Schreve explains how real faith believes God, obeys God, and experiences the power of God. When you take that step of faith and trust His promises, you'll begin to see God move in ways you never thought possible.

What if worrying about the future is actually keeping you from experiencing God today? In this episode, Dot and Cara sit with Lamentations 3:22-23 and get honest about what it really means to trust that His mercies are new every morning. Dot talks about why living in the future, whether through anxiety or wishful thinking, can become a kind of hiding from today's reality, and Cara opens up about a season of already grieving outcomes that haven't happened yet. Pull up a chair, grab your Bible, and lean in with us.Got a question about today's episode or something else you'd like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode RecapIntro (00:27)Write this down: Lamentations 3:22-23, the steadfast love of the Lord and His mercies that are new every morning (00:00)Dot reflects on being someone who always thinks ahead, and shares what she sensed God saying in prayer: just live today, and those days will add up to the future you're hoping for. (01:18)The manna illustration: when the Israelites stored up more than they needed for the day, it turned to worms. Dot says that's what happens when we try to live in a day we haven't lived yet. (03:01)Cara opens up about writing narratives, already emotionally grieving outcomes that haven't happened, and why that kind of anticipatory grief is different from surrendering to God. (03:44)The control problem: we try to escape into the future because we can't control it, but Dot points out we can't control the present either. Sometimes the future becomes a way of hiding from today's reality. (06:48)Cara shares what staying tethered looks like in a hard season: worship music on repeat, calling truth to mind, and finding small moments throughout the day to go before Jesus, even two minutes at lunch. (10:09)Hope belongs in God's character, not in circumstances changing. Dot shares honestly about years she believed God didn't want her to suffer, and what Scripture actually teaches about following Jesus into a hard life. (13:45)Dot talks about a hard season two and a half years ago when she walked through her days like a zombie, but kept showing up to pray every morning anyway. That habit, she says now, was her lifeline. (19:54)Prayer is a relationship, not a to-do. If you don't want to go to God right now, start by asking Him to help you know He wants to be with you. (23:10)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook This Episode's Scripture VerseLamentations 3:22-23 (ESV) — “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

☞ ABOUT THIS MESSAGE Through Abraham's test with Isaac and the heroes of Hebrews 11, Jim revealed that fearless faith means choosing to trust God over our anxieties when obedience seems impossible. Like Moses abandoning palace luxury or the Israelites marching through the Red Sea, these champions acted before seeing God's provision. Jim's challenge: surrender what you're clinging to, leave your "Egypt" of partial obedience, and take your next step without waiting for guarantees. Stop waiting for evidence before trusting God. Your fearless faith journey begins with one question: Will you bet on God's invisible future and take that step today?   ☞ BIBLE APP NOTES https://www.bible.com/events/49614093   ☞ GROUP LEADER GUIDE https://page.church.tech/484b4825   ☞ NEXT STEPS

Before Ezra and his companions start on their long journey to Israel, problems already arise that need ironed out: No Levites decided to make the journey, so Ezra needs to find some willing Levites to change their minds Ezra felt ashamed to ask the king for assistance from the Persian army, so he orders a 3-day long fast to ask for protection from God Ezra immediately gives the Priests and Levites temple duties before setting out This chapter highlights the importance of faith and obedience, noting that Ezra and the Israelites trusted in God's power to protect them on their journey. It also emphasizes the significance of listening to God's call, citing the example of the Levites who initially refused to join the journey but eventually answered God's call and were blessed. Lastly, this episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of treating offerings to God with respect and reverence. Jenn notes that any offering given to God is considered holy and should be treated as such. Related Episodes: Hebrews 11:1-16 - Faith and Obedience Go Together 1 Chronicles 24-26 - The Levite's Role in The 2nd Coming of Christ Numbers 3:1-13 (From Creation) - How the Levite Tribe Relates to Modern Christianity Don’t just check out one… Take a look at them all! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-6493869 Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Become a Coffee-Tier member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Fear can make even the strongest person feel trapped and overwhelmed. In this message, Pastor Jeff Schreve takes us to Exodus 13, where the Israelites found themselves caught between the Red Sea and Pharaoh's advancing army. Discover how God often allows impossible situations so His power can be clearly seen. When you remember that God has a plan and choose to trust Him, the place of your greatest fear can become the place of your greatest deliverance.

Psalm 78:2 reminds believers of the importance of remembering and recounting God’s faithfulness through every generation. In this devotional, Jennifer Slattery explores how seasons of chaos, uncertainty, fear, and hardship can tempt Christians to lose sight of God’s power, provision, and promises. When life feels overwhelming, believers often try to regain control on their own, yet Scripture continually points back to the faithfulness of God as the true foundation for peace and stability. This devotional highlights how the Israelites repeatedly witnessed God’s miraculous provision and deliverance, yet often forgot His faithfulness when new challenges arose. Through intentional reflection and remembrance, Christians can strengthen their faith, overcome fear, and build deeper trust in God’s character. Remembering God’s past faithfulness becomes a powerful way to steady the heart, encourage future generations, and remain anchored in hope during uncertain times. Highlights Remembering God’s faithfulness strengthens faith during difficult seasons. Fear and anxiety often grow when believers forget God’s past provision. Scripture repeatedly calls God’s people to reflect on His works and promises. The Israelites struggled because they continually forgot God’s deliverance. God remains faithful even when His people are fearful or weak in faith. Reflecting on God’s past provision helps believers trust Him in present trials. Intentional remembrance builds peace, hope, and spiritual endurance. Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: How Remembering God’s Faithfulness Rebuilds Your FaithBy: Jennifer Slattery Bible Reading:I will open my mouth with a parable;I will utter hidden things, things from of old. —Psalm 78:2 Lately, life has felt heavy and chaotic, hasn’t it? Sometimes it feels like everything is spinning backward, upside down, and inside out, and frankly, there’s not much I can do about it. I can’t fix our economy or prevent the next recession. I can’t undo the division and polarization plaguing our nation. I can’t solve my loved one’s problems or prevent their pain. And when everything hits simultaneously, or my hardship continues for any length of time, I temporarily lose sight of the power, promises, and love of Christ. Such forgetfulness is dangerous in times of crisis, because it tempts me to rely on myself and seek control. But I’ve created enough messes to know the foolishness of any so-called solutions not provided by Christ. Thankfully, He never leaves me to navigate life’s challenges alone. I watched Him resurrect my marriage when it seemed dead. He’s provided for us in miraculous ways and guided us through confusion and uncertainty. My life has become a living testimony of His grace. A grace that, when remembered and reflected upon, deepens my faith, strengthens my obedience, and purifies my love for the One who never leaves my side. I see this strategic interaction all throughout Scripture. We humans excel at falling into messes; the Lord excels at pulling us out and setting us on a new, brighter, freer path. This is the message Asaph, the prophet and royal musician who penned Psalm 78, conveyed. He wanted the Israelites to consider God’s faithfulness to His often faithless and rebellious people. He asked them to listen, and then to repeat the lessons he taught, as a way to encourage their souls, yes. But also to build faith into the next generation. To help insulate them from falling into the same self-defeating traps as the older generation (vs 6-8). Scripture records some of the most shocking examples in Exodus, a historical narrative recounting the people’s liberation from slavery and oppression and journey to the Promised Land. They should’ve completed this 200 to 400-mile trek within ten days, a few weeks max. But when it came time to enter their new, God-given land, they refused, out of fear. This, after having witnessed the Lord’s miraculous intervention numerous times. Consider how their story began—an entire population, held captive, powerless, for centuries. They had no recourse, no voice, and likely assumed things would never get better. How could they, a weak and beaten-down people group, possibly break free from the most powerful ruler in the ancient world at that time? That’s also why God’s rescue would’ve made such an impact. He infused hope into a seemingly hopeless situation, proving His power over the most oppressive and established systems and history’s most vicious tyrants. But then, soon after their liberation, they found themselves trapped again, this time with a large body of water on one side and a skilled, armed, and trained military advancing on the other. Understandably, the people panicked. They deemed their circumstances hopeless. But again, God came through, parted the water so they could pass across on dry ground, then swept their cruel abusers into the sea. Again and again, God’s people found themselves in dire situations. And again and again, God came through, proving His love. Demonstrating His attentive care. In each instance, He presented them with an opportunity to deepen their faith, build greater trust in their Maker, and establish a more secure connection with Him. Sadly, they never seemed to accept His beautiful invitation—because they refused to learn from their past. Instead, they remained reactive, fearful, anxious, and in repeated chaos with themselves, one another, and their Lord. Asaph challenged the later generations to consider their ancestors’ self-defeating patterns so that they could learn to live differently, with more faith and less fear. And he did so by highlighting God’s faithfulness, often displayed when His people behaved most faithlessly. Intersecting Life & Faith: Each day, God offers us the same lesson. He invites us to engage in intentional reflection, where we periodically pause to recall evidence of His love and examples of His care. This remembering strengthens our faith and our attachment to our Savior. As we consistently draw closer to Him, listen for His life parables, and fortify our souls with truth, He steadies us. He enables us to stand firm, immovable, regardless of how shaky the ground beneath us feels. How might intentionally remembering God’s power, promises, presence, and provision increase your faith and peace and decrease your anxiety for whatever difficulties you might face? Perhaps journal on one instance each day. In a year’s time, you’ll have 365 accounts of His faithful care for you and those you love. Further Reading:Joshua 4:6-7Psalm 105:1-5Psalm 145:4-7 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We delve into the biblical story of the Passover - a key moment in the Exodus tale. We explore the concept of substitute death as a central theme in the Bible and recount the final plague that God sent upon Egypt, leading to the liberation of the Israelites. The episode also discusses the significance of the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, and how these events connect to the larger narrative of the Bible. Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

What do you do when you know God is faithful but your circumstances are screaming something different? In this Beyond the Notes episode, Ryan Flint, Worship Pastor at McGregor Baptist Church, explores the concept of gospel amnesia: the very human pattern of forgetting what we know to be true about God the moment suffering gets loud. Drawing from Matthew 14, the Psalms, and the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, Ryan explains why fear narrows our vision and how it causes us to interpret God through our storms instead of interpreting our storms through God. Ryan walks through five practical anchors for fighting back: staying in God's Word, staying connected to the church, worshiping regularly, remembering what God has done before, and preaching gospel truth to yourself every day. Whether you are in a hard season or simply want to be more ready for the next one, this episode gives you a clear and honest framework for keeping the gospel close when life gets loud. Presented by McGregor Podcast 2026 Visit Our Website at McGregorPodcast.com New to McGregor? Plan a visit at mcgregor.net/plan-a-visit

What if the thing standing against you is no match for the God standing with you?   In this powerful Sunday message, Pastor Donnie McClurkin challenges believers to choose faith over fear and trust God beyond what circumstances may suggest. Rooted in Romans 8:31–33, the sermon reminds us that if God is for us, no opposition, accusation, or temporary trial can overpower His promises.   Pastor McClurkin encourages the congregation to stop magnifying problems and start speaking faith over every situation. Whether facing uncertainty, pressure, or fear, believers are called to stand on God's Word rather than human opinion or emotion.   Drawing from the story of the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, he powerfully illustrates God's faithfulness in impossible situations. Just as God made a way through the Red Sea, He is still able to fight battles, open doors, and bring His people through seasons of adversity.   This message is a timely reminder to remain steadfast, trust God's declarations, and watch His salvation unfold in your life.   "

What Does it Mean to be a Prophetess? by Autumn Dickson In a day and age where many are curious as to why women can't hold specific positions in the church or be ordained to priesthood offices, reading about Deborah the prophetess can be confusing. Here is a verse that describes her as a prophetess. Judges 4:4 And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she judged Israel at that time. If Deborah can be a prophetess, can we have a prophetess in our day? What does it even mean that she was a prophetess and what are the implications for women in the latter days? I think it's important to note that I'm not an official representative of the church. However, I'd like to share some of my own perspectives and interpretations surrounding Deborah and what it means as a female Latter-day Saint. But first, some context. Judges is a book of scripture that describes the time period when Israel had no king. Joshua, the prophet after Moses, died, and there was no prophet that directly succeeded him. We don't know exactly how long it took before the Lord called another centralized prophet (Samuel), but educated guesses suggest 300-450 years. As a society, they had the Law of Moses, and the government could be described as a tribal confederation. Despite having a law given unto them from God, they often fell in with Canaanites and found themselves in varying levels of apostasy. Sometimes, in response to the Israelites finding themselves in trouble, the Lord would send a “judge.” The way that we define “judge” is not necessarily accurate in this particular book of scripture. In this context, a judge was a charismatic military leader that would help Israel. There were some major judges such as Samson; there were other minor judges that would help regions rather than the entire nation of Israel. So who was Deborah? Deborah was one of the major judges sent by God to help Israel. She was a judge in every sense of the word. She was a military leader, but people also literally went to her for guidance to settle their problems. She was also a spiritual leader over the nation of Israel. Was she a prophet? The scriptures describe her as a prophetess, and she led all of Israel politically and spiritually. But was she a prophet in the way that we define “prophet” in our day? At this point, I think it's important to clarify what it means to have a prophet. Definition One. The way that we usually define “prophet” in our church in the Latter-days is unique. It's not just someone who studies the scriptures and knows them really well. It's not just someone who receives revelation. When Latter-day Saints speak of prophets, we are often describing the man who has the authority to speak for God on behalf of the entire church. He is the only one with spiritual jurisdiction to lead (under Christ) the church. He holds all of the priesthood keys. And yes, he is a male. We don't know if that will ever change. I don't know if it's doctrine that means this particular role will always be male, or if someday the Lord will use His unchanging love and wisdom to adapt His church according to circumstances as He has throughout the course of history. But there is also a broader definition of this term, “prophet.” Definition two. Anyone can have the spirit of prophecy which is defined as a “testimony of Christ.” We know that Jerusalem had centralized prophets in ancient times as well as lesser “prophets” who would also be sent by the Lord to teach and call upon people to repent. I am not a prophet in the sense that I hold all the priesthood keys or can define doctrine on behalf of the Lord for the entire church. However, I have come to view myself as a prophetess within my own family. Beside my husband, I lead our home. I receive revelation on behalf of our kids and what we need to do. I learn the will of the Lord for our family. I fulfill so many of the “prophetic” responsibilities often associated with prophets; I simply do it within the context of my own family. Most importantly, I am a witness of Christ to my family. What kind of prophetess was Deborah? With the information we've been given, I feel pretty safe assuming she was the second kind of prophet. The Lord had declared that priesthood responsibilities would go through male descendants of Aaron and the tribe of Levi. Deborah was not ordained nor did she hold any keys. So Deborah was a prophetess but not necessarily how we often define it in our day. Perhaps there are some who are disappointed by this news. Perhaps there are some who hoped that because Deborah was a prophetess, we could have one in our day. Perhaps there are some who cling to the idea that things will change and long for the day to see a prophetess lead the church. I don't know whether that will be a thing. If anyone has any insight into that particular doctrine, feel free to comment. But as far as I know, we don't know. Here's what I do know. Deborah doesn't need to be disappointing. In fact, if we understand her properly, we should be exultant. If we understand what the Lord would like to bestow upon His daughters and His sons, then we would hold no fear. Deborah is excellent proof of what the Lord would have all of us do. Deborah may not have been a prophetess in the modern sense of the word, but guys! She was still a prophetess! She was a national leader, and people followed her. She changed Israel. She made a difference. She has been regarded with respect by millions who learned about her generation after generation. And she didn't need the priesthood keys to do it. The Lord is wonderful and wise and set up a priesthood organization with offices and keys. I know that can be a painful sticking point for some. I understand that. I'm personally grateful for this organization, but I can simultaneously understand why it's painful. But that's not really my point today. My point is that you have all that you need to become everything God wants you to become, and He has much more in mind for you than you have for yourself. This has implications for men too. About 3-5% of men will hold priesthood keys at any given time in the church. That number jumps to 10-20% of men who will hold priesthood keys at some point in their lifetime. BUT YOU DON'T NEED KEYS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND CHANGE THE WORLD. No one came to Deborah and ordained her as a prophetess. The bible doesn't tell us how she rose to that role, but I have my guesses as to how it happened. It happened because she was a faithful daughter of God who chose to follow the Lord wherever He chose to lead her. Following the Lord and handing your life over to Him in faith (female or male) does not mean you will be recorded for people to pore over your life story for generations to come. It doesn't mean you'll be famous or even particularly loud. But if that's what you're looking for, then you're in the wrong place anyway. I love the example of Deborah, if for no other reason than her story means that I can be a powerful tool for the Lord regardless of what mankind recognizes in me. Regardless of whatever official roles I've been given, I could part seas or change lives. Really what it comes down to is what the Lord wants for me and what He's trying to teach me. Having enough power to change the world isn't really the question here; the Lord will give me everything I need. The true question is whether I will give my life over to Him in whatever capacity He asks. I have as well as I can, and I love my life. I testify that we have everything we need to do everything the Lord wants us to do and become everything He wants us to become. I likewise testify that He has much more in mind for you than you have for yourself. If you (female or male) feel left out because you can't be or aren't a bishop, then hold tight. The Lord has much bigger plans for you. He loves you so much. You are so important to Him. It would be silly to ask more from Him when He already plans on giving you everything that He has. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16 – Part 1 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

On many occasions, individuals will do something so that they remember a significant life event. The Israelites gathered stones as they crossed the Jordan River. With the stones, they built a monument so that when future generations asked what the stones meant, they would hear of how God led them through and provided for them. We also put up monuments, not to worship, but to remember individuals or events that have impacted our nation in a significant way. Unfortunately, it's these statues and monuments that are under attack. Why is this happening? To address this issue, Crosstalk welcomed Dr. Tim Schmig. Dr. Schmig is executive director of the Michigan Association of Christian Schools, director of Stories in Stone and author of Stories in Stones: Our Heritage of Evidence. So why is there such a concerted effort to remove statues and monuments today? Dr. Schmig believes part of it is because people today are looking back through the lens of their own personal experiences, therefore they view our nation's founders based upon what's known as "presentism." In other words, they weigh the actions and productivity of the founders (and others who've gone on before us) based on what they believe is right today. As he noted, none of us are perfect, including America's founders. The present day protesters that tear down monuments aren't perfect either. So if you look at our nation through the lens of idealism, we'll be weighed in the balances and found wanting. Yet if you look at America's history based upon the times that they lived in, you'll see that those individuals did some amazing things.

We just completed our first year in Spain, a year full of changes, and have noticed many similarities we share with the Israelites when they were traveling into the Promised Land: They were prone to fear instead of faith; they were self-centered and unthankful; they struggled to trust God with all the changes in their lives. And we are the same! Listen in as we confess some sin and struggles during our last year of transition, and rejoice in Jesus, who never sinned and died for our sin, and empowers us to live in a way that honors Him. 

In this first episode of our summer series on Disputing with God, we are reading the story of the Golden Calf, Exodus 32:1-20 and 30-35. We've read it together before, but the regular lectionary stops us pretty early in its unfolding ... and we found that moving farther into the story directed our eyes not to the Israelites or to God, but to the space between them–their relationship, still fairly new and fragile. And you know what else is right between them–our man Moses, holding the tablets, trying to reach in both directions at once. What's left after this kind of rupture? What's possible?

In this episode of TBE, Jenn delves into Ezra chapter seven, where we meet the main character, Ezra, a skilled scribe and leader of the Israelites: King Artaxerxes gives Ezra a letter granting him permission to lead some Israelites back to Jerusalem The king's letter shows the power dynamics at play in the Persian Empire. Ezra is tasked with using the king's funds and resources to beautify the Temple in Jerusalem The king exempts the priests and other temple workers from paying taxes. Ezra is given massive authority to enforce the laws of God and execute judgment on those who do not follow God's laws If you're interested in learning more about the background of Ezra's leadership, be sure to listen to this episode of The Bible Explained podcast. Jenn provides an engaging explanation of the text, and explores the historical and cultural context that underlies this important book. Hey! Don't leave before looking at other P40 stuff: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-6493869 Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Become a Coffee-Tier member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, Shawn Stutz teaches on Ezra 5: 1-5 and explored how the Israelites stopped rebuilding the temple for 16 years because comfort, distraction, fear, and spiritual disengagement slowly replaced obedience to God. Through the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, God called His people to return to Him, reminding them that obedience is not about striving harder but about living a “with God” life empowered by His Spirit. True obedience flows from a relationship with God, affects the people around us, and becomes possible “not by might nor by power, but by God's Spirit.”

Don't boil a goat in its mother's milk...why is this even in the Bible?! Is there any application for us today?In today's episode, Pastor Derek and Pastor Jackie continue through their Strange Scriptures series and talk through a few different passages in the Law that forbid the Israelites to boil a goat in the milk of its mother. We look through a few different principles and beliefs as to why this command was included three separate times in Scripture, narrowing down on one leading belief that is affirmed by the surrounding context of the passage. We then expound upon how the heart behind this command is still applicable for Christians today!The 17:17 podcast is a ministry of Roseville Baptist Church (MN) that seeks to tackle cultural issues and societal questions from a biblical worldview so that listeners discover what the Bible has to say about the key issues they face on a daily basis. The 17:17 podcast seeks to teach the truth of God's Word in a way that is glorifying to God and easy to understand with the hope of furthering God's kingdom in Spirit and in Truth. Scriptures: Exo. 23:19; Exo. 34:26; Deut. 14:21; Lev. 18:26-30; Deut. 22:6; Prov. 12:10; 1 Cor. 9:8-10; Exo. 23:16-19; Exo. 34:19-26; Deut. 14:21-23.If you'd like access to our show notes, please visit www.rosevillebaptist.com/1717podcast to see them in Google Drive!Please listen, subscribe, rate, and review the podcast so that we can reach to larger audiences and share the truth of God's Word with them!Write in your own questions to be answered on the show at 1717pod@gmail.com.  God bless!

NIV 10 So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt." 11 But Moses said to God, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" 12 And God said, "I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain."

Today Is Pentecost, fifty days after Passover. It's the day the Holy Spirit descended on the followers of Jesus and the day Moses descended Mount Sinai with the Law. We discussed the similarities and differences between those two events. For example, the fire on Mount Sinai and the tongues of fire over the heads of the followers of Jesus; and the 3,000 saved on Pentecost in Acts chapter 2 contrasted with the 3000 who were put to death when Moses returned from Sinai to find the Israelites engaged in debauchery around the golden calf. We also discuss the change between the law on tablets of stone and the law written on our hearts. We bring in passages from Ezekiel 36 in which God promised to restore Israel to the land—not because the Israelites earned it, but for the sake of His Holy Name so that the world would know He is Yahweh. This was fulfilled in 1948. Here's the link to “The Comforter Has Come,” featuring Sharon with Sandi Patty, Steve Green, and Warren Hoffman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BgOrW8DAFJ0 And here's the video “Mount Hermon's Upsettingly Dark Occult Connections”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQvfrTtE9XM Sharon's niece, Sarah Sachleben, has been diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer, and the medical bills are piling up. If you are led to help, please go to GilbertHouse.org/hopeforsarah. Our latest book The Gates of Hell is available in paperback, Kindle, and as an audiobook at Audible! Derek's book Destination: Earth, co-authored with Donna Howell and Allie Anderson, is available in paperback, Kindle, and as an audiobook at Audible! If you are looking for a text of the Book of 1 Enoch to follow our monthly study, you can try these sources: Parallel translations by R. H. Charles (1917) and Richard Laurence (1821)Modern English translation by George W. E. Nickelsburg and James VanderKam (link to book at Amazon)Book of 1 Enoch - Standard English Version by Dr. Jay Winter (link opens free PDF)Book of 1 Enoch - R. H. Charles translation (link opens free PDF) The SkyWatchTV store has a special offer on Dr. Michael Heiser's two-volume set A Companion to the Book of Enoch. Get both books, the R. H. Charles translation of 1 Enoch, and a DVD interview with Mike and Steven Bancarz for a donation of $35 plus shipping and handling. Link: https://bit.ly/heiser-enoch Follow us! • X: @gilberthouse_tv | @sharonkgilbert | @derekgilbert• Substack: GilbertHouse.substacdk.com | SharonKGilbert.substack.com• Telegram: t.me/gilberthouse | t.me/sharonsroom | t.me/viewfromthebunker• YouTube: @GilbertHouse | @UnravelingRevelation | @thebiblesgreatestmysteries• Facebook.com/GilbertHouseFellowship Thank you for making our Build Barn Better project a reality! We truly appreciate your support. If you are so led, you can help out at GilbertHouse.org/donate. Get our free app! It connects you to these studies plus our weekly video programs Unraveling Revelation and A View from the Bunker, and the podcast that started this journey in 2005, P.I.D. Radio. Best of all, it bypasses the gatekeepers of Big Tech! The app is available for iOS, Android, Roku, and Apple TV. Links to the app stores are at www.gilberthouse.org/app/. Video on demand of our best teachings! Stream presentations and teachings based on our research at our new video on demand site! Gilbert House T-shirts and mugs! New to our store is a line of GHTV and Redwing Saga merch! Check it out at GilbertHouse.org/store! Think better, feel better! Our partners at Simply Clean Foods offer freeze-dried, 100% GMO-free food and delicious, vacuum-packed fair trade coffee from Honduras. Find out more at GilbertHouse.org/store. Our favorite Bible study tools! Check the links in the left-hand column at www.GilbertHouse.org.

What happens when you've done everything you know to do… and you're still tired? In this season finale of Honey For Your Heart, we're sitting in that honest question together. After a season of walking through grief, waiting, gratitude, hidden growth, and staying under mercy, this episode brings us back to the simplest—and hardest—invitation of all: dependence on God. Because spiritual maturity isn't about needing Him less. It's about realizing how deeply we need Him for everything. If you're feeling weary, unsure how to keep going, or wondering what comes next—this conversation will gently bring you back to what matters most. Not striving. Not figuring it all out. Just staying near. What We Talk About in This Episode Why exhaustion often comes from carrying what was never ours to hold The truth about spiritual growth (and why it leads to more dependence, not less) The tension between wanting understanding and choosing God's presence What we can learn from Joseph, Job, and the Israelites about trusting God in hard seasons Why gratitude and remembrance are essential to sustaining faith The power of "memorial stones" and why your hardest seasons matter How God uses the fire to burn away what was never meant to hold you Why your story is bigger than you—and how your faith impacts others What it really means to "stay under mercy" in everyday life Key Scriptures Genesis 2–3 (The Garden: knowledge vs. intimacy) Job 38 (God's response to suffering) Isaiah 40:26 ("Lift up your eyes…") Joshua 4 (Memorial stones of remembrance) Daniel 3 (The fire that frees) Colossians 1:17 ("In Him all things hold together") Key Takeaways You don't outgrow your need for God—you grow deeper into it. God's presence is often given in place of the understanding we want. Gratitude trains your eyes to see where God is already at work. The hardest places in your story may become the clearest evidence of His faithfulness. Growth isn't always visible—sometimes it looks like simply continuing to show up. You are not holding your life together—He is. A Final Word If you're ending this season still tired… still waiting… still carrying questions— You're not behind. You're not failing. You're being formed. So don't strive harder. Don't try to hold it all together. Just stay near. Connect + Continue the Journey If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who may need it too. And if you haven't already, be sure to follow along so you don't miss what's coming next. Closing Reminder You are seen. You are known. You are deeply loved. And you are never walking alone.

Nehemiah 8:9-10 reveals a powerful truth for believers struggling with regret, guilt, and shame: God’s grace is stronger than our failures. In this devotional, Jennifer Slattery explores how shame often traps Christians in cycles of self-condemnation, replaying past mistakes and fearing they will never truly change. Yet God does not call His children to remain crushed beneath shame. Instead, He invites them to receive His forgiveness, walk in restoration, and find strength through His joy. Using the story of Israel’s return from exile, this devotional highlights how the people grieved over the consequences of their sin while also experiencing the overwhelming grace and provision of God. Though the rubble of brokenness remained, God wanted His people to rebuild from a place of hope rather than condemnation. In the same way, believers today can trust that God is patiently healing, transforming, and restoring them through His grace. Highlights Shame often keeps believers trapped in cycles of fear and self-condemnation. Self-awareness is an important step toward healing and spiritual growth. God’s grace meets believers in the middle of their brokenness and failures. Nehemiah 8 reminds us that “the joy of the Lord” is our strength. Biblical joy comes from knowing God is present, forgiving, and restoring. God does not want His children rebuilding their lives from shame. Healing and transformation often happen gradually through God’s grace. Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: How God’s Grace Breaks the Cycle of ShameBy: Jennifer Slattery Bible Reading:Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, “This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” - Nehemiah 8:9-10 Do you ever lie in bed, replaying your every unkind word or hurtful deed from the day? Do memories of past sins and regrets seize your mind and steal your peace? Do you find yourself looking back with sorrow at the damage your unfiltered words, angry outbursts, or triggered responses caused, longing for a do-over, but also fearful that you’ll forever fall into these unhelpful patterns? You’re not alone. People often state that the hardest person to forgive is ourselves. There’s truth to that, likely because we so long to live and love like Jesus. Yet, we often fall short, and not for lack of trying. The other day, I sat with a friend broken by a relational conflict she feared would irrevocably fracture the connection she’d been working to build. Her voice quivered as she said, “I don’t know why I act this way. In the moment, my perspective feels valid, and all I can see is how the other person hurt me. And suddenly, I question their character and intent. Self-isolating thoughts start playing through my mind, like, “She doesn’t really care about you.” “She wants something from you.” “He thinks you’re too much.” “You’re annoying him.” “She’s judging you.” “Why work through this when she’s just going to bail on the relationship anyway?” My friend’s hunched shoulders and the dark shadows beneath her eyes gave evidence to her sleepless night and the heavy weight of shame she carried. A tear slid down her cheek. With a deep breath, she brushed it away. “But then, later,” she said, “I see that I overreacted and made things worse. I see the pattern, but I don’t know how to break it.” Have you been there? The journey toward wholeness and holiness is rarely comfortable or quick. Yes, God holds the power to transform us with a whisper or glance. In my experience, however, He molds my soul gradually, alerting me to an issue, allowing me to see the fallout of my choices, to grieve my brokenness and sin, before He reveals the steps toward victory. Speaking from experience, I shared a statement that encouraged me when I was just beginning my healing journey. “Self-awareness is the first step to change. You can’t heal what you don’t see or won’t acknowledge.” Listening, my friend gave a slight nod and offered a half-laugh, half-huff. “Ignorance is bliss?” she asked. To which I replied, “Temporarily, perhaps. But it’s often when we’re staring at the rubble we’ve helped create that we’re most able to see, and rest in, God’s all-encompassing grace. To gain strength from His grace.” That’s the message today’s passage conveys. Seventy years after what scholars call the Babylonian exile, an event caused by ancient Israel’s long-standing spiritual rebellion, the Lord brought them back to their homeland to rebuild what their sin had destroyed. He sent them with His abundant provision—gold, silver, animals, priests to lead their faith, and numerous workers to repair Jerusalem’s walls and their sacred temple. Scripture tells us that: “The whole company numbered 42,360, besides their 7,337 menservants and maidservants; and they also had 245 men and women singers. There were 736 horses, 245 mules, 435 camels and 6,720 donkeys” (Ezra 2:66, NIV). In short, the Lord showered them with blessings and tangible evidence of His favor. And they celebrated. They celebrated the work He enabled them to do, the provisions He provided, and the forgiveness He granted. But this didn’t erase the grief they felt at all that had been lost. The Scripture their religious leaders read brought praise… and a deep awareness of their sin and all it had cost. Seeing their weeping, Ezra, Nehemiah, and the Lord’s priests spoke today’s passage, encouraging them to receive and find joy in God’s grace. Biblical joy goes much deeper than a temporary emotion based on our circumstances. It’s the deep awareness of God’s grace—knowing He’s with us, transforming us, rewriting our story, and working all things, our greatest failures included, for our good and His glory. This might not fix the damage we’ve caused. The ancient Israelites still had to clear away the rubble that once formed their homeland, to rebuild the fractured walls and restore the destroyed temple. But God wanted them to do so as His beloved, empowered, and absolved children, not from a place of shame. Shame is exhausting, heavy, and defeating. Grace brings hope, joy, and strength. It lifts the burdens we carry and plants us more firmly in God’s firm yet gentle embrace. Intersecting Life & Faith: I sometimes wonder if shame functions as a defense mechanism or a subconscious fail-safe. Is there a part of us that believes our inner critic protects us from future harm by keeping our unwanted behaviors in check? It’s also a powerful tool of the enemy strategically lobbed to hold us captive. Regardless, through Christ, we always have a way out. Our sins don’t repel Him; instead, He draws close, with arms open wide—nailed to the cross. We honor the sacrifice He made by learning to receive, in our innermost wounded places, the forgiveness for which He paid such a high price. That takes time, healing, prayer, and regularly connecting with Him; sitting in His presence. But the more we do so, take in His truth, and rest in His love, the weaker our shame, the greater our joy, and the more enduring our strength. If you battle shame over a present struggle or past sins, express this to God, and ask Him to break your shame. Then, keep your soul oriented to Him, your spiritual ears attuned to His voice, and your figurative feet ready to follow, trusting Him to lead you step by step, in His perfect timing. Further Reading:2 Corinthians 7:910Isaiah 57:14-15Habakkuk 3:19 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Those who drive along Highway 18 in western Oregon each fall are greeted with a delightful surprise from the tree-covered hillside flanking the road: a giant smiley face. The cheerful face is only visible in the autumn when the Larch tree needles turn yellow, contrasting with the surrounding, dark green Douglas fir trees (which create the eyes and mouth). A lumber company planted the three-hundred-foot diameter face in 2011 as part of an effort to replenish the timber they’d harvested. Isaiah invites us to know God as the one who brings life to desolate places. He reminded the Israelites during the barrenness of their captivity that God “[makes] rivers flow,” can “turn the desert into pools of water,” and grow “the cedar and the acacia” in the desert (Isaiah 41:18-19). God does these things not solely for His (and our) delight; He plants junipers, fir, and cypress “so that people may see and know” (v. 20) that He authors all and will ultimately redeem all—even those places thought to be “wasteland[s]” (v. 19). Though we may not glimpse a face smiling back at us from a hillside, all of creation can remind us of God’s redemptive power over our world and our individual circumstances—even in the wake (or fear) of devastation. Let’s seek His face as our source of hope and joy amid our struggles.

Rahab: From Prostitute to Type of Christ by Autumn Dickson How could I not take some time to speak about Rahab? She was incredible. Here is our introduction to Rahab. Joshua 2:1 And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot's house, named Rahab, and lodged there. Rahab was a prostitute who hid Israeli spies as they were coming to look at Jericho. In exchange for hiding them, she asked them to spare her and her family. They gave her a red cord to put in the window, and all of Jericho was destroyed except for her and her family. In order to understand precisely why she was so great, it's important to understand the background she was born into. Jericho was getting utterly destroyed. There have been times throughout history where the Lord helped His people conquer without utterly destroying everything. Jericho was not one of those times. The land of Canaan was “full” of sin to the extent that destruction was necessary. It was so filled with misery that it needed a clean slate. Except for Rahab. The fact that she's a prostitute during this time period isn't unsurprising. What she's had to go through is not a sign of her moral failings but of her society failing her. We can see the type of person she is from her reactions. She is willing to follow the Lord after hearing the testimony of others. She wants to save her family, not just herself. She utilized her circumstances for the Lord's work. These are not the only reasons Rahab is incredible. The fact that she married is also amazing when you learn what trauma she likely accrued because of her circumstances. This is not a comprehensive list of her good qualities, but I specifically chose these ones. These qualities are what make her like the Savior. Rahab is a type of Christ. Let's talk about a couple of things in her life that reflect the Savior. 1) She is willing to follow the Lord despite what the society around her is doing. Rahab could have been blinded by her own society. She could have followed what everyone else was doing and simply been afraid. Imagine if the rest of the Canaanites had the heart that Rahab had. Imagine if all of them had approached the Israelite army and were like, “We heard how your God protected you and took care of you. We would like to follow Him too.” Imagine if all of us were able to look at what was going on around us and be willing to follow a better way. The Jews were not especially righteous when Christ came to fulfill His mortal ministry. In fact, many of them were evil. If Christ had been born to any other nation, they would have recognized Him as God. Some of the Jews of this time period were too wicked to see Him for what He was. Jesus broke a lot of their made up rules. He followed the Law of Moses perfectly, but He broke a lot of the rules that they had built up around that law. He looked at society and knew there was a better way to live. 2) She wants to save her family, not just herself. Rahab could have followed the spies out. Perhaps that would have been easier than sitting in her home and hoping all the soldiers followed the direction to spare her. We don't know all the reasons why Rahab stayed, but we do know she sought out her family and brought them into her home where they could be protected too. She cared enough about her family that she sought saving them too. Maybe she even felt that being saved wouldn't be worth it if her family couldn't be saved too. Christ's heart also pushed Him to look beyond Himself. Christ is the only One who was perfect enough to go to heaven. He could have come down here, lived perfectly, and gone on to live in heaven forever, but He loved us too much. He put Himself through difficult things in order to save us too. He was concerned with saving His family. He obviously didn't think heaven was going to be good enough without us despite our many failings. He loved us, and looked beyond Himself. 3) She utilized her circumstances for the Lord's work. It was actually important that Rahab was a prostitute. With all of the tension in the air from the Israelite army, it would have been difficult for the spies to get into Jericho. Because she was a prostitute, it allowed them to enter into the city. It wasn't as uncommon for strangers and foreigners to visit brothels in comparison to visiting repectable houses. Not to mention, Rahab's house was within the city wall and allowed them to escape. Now, the fact that she was a prostitute did not mean that the spies went undetected. Somehow, the residents of Jericho noticed the spies and they came knocking. Rahab hid them on the roof before helping them escape. This is actually also an important reflection of Christ. Only Christ was in the correct circumstances to save us. Because of His birth, He held power that no one else had. He had the ability to save us because of His circumstances. But, it was still ultimately His decision to save us. Rahab's circumstances put her in an ideal situation to save her family and help the Lord's work, but her choices and faith were absolutely key as well. Sometimes our circumstances make it difficult to believe that we could ever be like Christ. Sometimes what we've been through or are currently going through make us think that we can't serve. Sometimes our circumstances are the very things that put is in a position to be like Christ. I testify that like Rahab, we are all given opportunities to be like our Savior. I also testify that like Rahab, following the Lord and His prophet will ultimately save us. It doesn't matter where we started; we can make choices that will put us in line with the Lord's people. He can save us, and He can utilize us if we're willing to leave our old lives behind. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Joshua 1–8; 23–24 – Part 2 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

→ Watch on YouTube → Detailed Show Notes → Timestamps: (00:00) A brief overview of these chapters.(06:25) The pride cycle explained.(11:29) The pride cycle illustrated in the Book of Judges.(15:56) Successive generations of Israelites forget God and the things he has done for them.(17:56) The theme of denigrating the northern tribes of Israel.(21:33) Othniel is the first judge. Ehud, the second judge, brings a “gift” to Eglon, the fat king of Moab.(27:24) Deborah is the third judge. How her story compares to the Ishtar myth.(36:51) Gideon is the fourth judge and humbly trusts in God.(47:43) Gideon refuses the invitation to be the king of Israel and teaches that Israel should make God their King.(53:20) Samson is the 7th judge and is blessed with great strength. His ultimate destruction is symbolic of the descent of the House of Israel. Other myths of the ancient world, those of Nergal and Oedipus, may indicate that Samson's story contains recontextualized tropes from older times.(1:11:00) Abimelech is the 5th judge and slays his seventy brothers.(1:14:15) Jephthah is the 6th judge and makes a rash vow and sacrifices his only daughter.(1:17:47) In the first epilogue Micah sets up a false religion.(1:19:59) In the second epilogue a Levite woman is horribly violated and killed. Civil war ensues among the Israelites. We see that if Christ isn't our King, we will be without civilization. → For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here. → Enroll in Institute → YouTube → Apple Podcasts → Spotify → Amazon Music → Facebook The post Ep 373 | Judges, Come Follow Me 2026 (May 25-31) appeared first on LDS Scripture Teachings.