Confederation of Iron Age Semitic-speaking tribes of the ancient Near East, who inhabited a part of Canaan
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Welcome to our final lesson in the Book of Malachi! We explore the myriad questions posed in the book, that feel a bit like a courtroom-like dialogue between God and the Israelites. The timeless nature of Malachi's message resonates across eras by highlighting Israel's pattern of unfaithfulness and connecting it to our own lives. The dense concentration of questions throughout Malachi, up to chapter 3, starkly contrasts with chapter 4 which contains no questions, signaling a shift from inquiry to God's final judgment. Acknowledging God's love, as outlined in Malachi, encourages us to see the ongoing work of God in our lives and the world around us. The Israelites questioned God's love and justice, despised worship practices, and failed to honor God in their daily lives. The answers to the questions in the book of Malachi reveal their shortcomings and guide us towards a faithful relationship with God. The book of Malachi further explores the theme of justice versus grace; as Scripture teaches us, true justice is met only through the grace offered by Jesus. Repentance and confession are essential to understand God's grace. Justice is found through Jesus. The crucial question “How shall we return to You, Lord?” encapsulates the hope of returning to God by recognizing His unchanging nature and engaging with scripture. Stephanie discusses the path to God through spiritual disciplines, offering a free video course, "Pathways to God's Presence,” to deepen this understanding. Make sure to grab your full video course at https://www.gospelspice.com/pathways In the context of the intertestamental period, Malachi's teachings reverberated through four hundred years until John the Baptist's emergence. Stephanie reminds us of historical insights, drawing parallels with significant events and figures like Alexander the Great and the Roman conquest, to contextualize Malachi's message within the fabric of time. Through Malachi 4, God promises ultimate justice and restoration, symbolized by the "sun of righteousness." Here, the imagery of wings is a protective symbol throughout Scripture, which we will compare it to Jesus' teachings. The notion of God's impending judgment is juxtaposed with the promise of protection and healing for those who revere God's name. In the context of the upcoming silence of four hundred years, God's last words offer a solemn warning blended with hope. Through Jesus, who embodied the curse and offered grace, our path was paved for redemption. Malachi invites us to ponder whether we stand beneath the protective wings of the Savior, or risk facing the blazing sun of righteousness without His grace. Malachi today challenges us to live as messengers of faith, rooted in grace through Christ, and eager to spread God's love. DISCOVER THE GOSPEL SPICE MINISTRIES The Gospel Spice Podcast is part of a larger range of tools given to you by Gospel Spice Ministries. In a nutshell, we exist to inspire Christ-followers to delight in God. In more details: we provide resources to empower Christian leaders across generational, social, ethnic and geographical boundaries towards more intimacy with Jesus Christ and discipleship effectiveness through a Biblical Christocentric foundation. The Gospel-Spice Ministries provide a safe environment for spiritual and community growth empowering people to know Christ more intimately, serve one another more powerfully, and reach the world for Jesus. PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the link with friends and family. PRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with! PAY IT FORWARD!! Would you consider supporting this show today to help others enjoy it for free? It comes to you completely free, but is labor-intensive to produce, and we want to keep putting it in the ears of people! Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status. Your donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170. We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. All donations above our minimal operating costs go to Christian organizations fighting human trafficking. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog (*ListenNotes ranking, 2023) You are invited to join us on the Gospel Spice Prayer Bible Study, titled "The heart behind prayer" starting September 20, 2025! Details and registration here: https://www.gospelspice.com/prayer There are a few things in our Christian life that we know we should do more, or at least better – and prayer just might top the list. Prayer is a mystery. Why would a conversation with a human have any influence on God's eternal, sovereign plan? It defies logic, and beckons love. How can God, the Almighty Lord of Hosts, be this close, this personal? It defies understanding, and beckons involvement. But, lack of time, inspiration, and discipline, combined with the ruthless tyranny of our busy lives, push prayer to the periphery, to the “one day I'll get to it” pile. And yet, we can excel at what we endeavor to undertake. So, why isn't prayer more of a spiritual priority? Could we develop a mindset around prayer that made it attractive, inspiring, even maybe delightful? What if we attuned our spiritual ears to listen to God, and our spiritual eyes to see His provision? As an unassuming student, I'm going to humbly offer to share the little I have learned from others about the joy of prayer. I will give us theology, practical tips, and useful resources, sharing what works for me as we, together, learn to pray. If you find prayer intimidating, or if your lack of prayer makes you feel guilty or “less than,” then this is the place for you! If you have been a student of prayer for many years, this is the place for you too! If you have breath in your lungs, then prayer can become one of the deepest joys of your day. Don't miss out! A PERSPECTIVE ABOUT PRAYER To pray is to believe that God not only hears, but that He responds. It is to stand in the gap for a broken world, wielding the authority of Christ, empowered by the Spirit, and trusting in the goodness of the Father. The question is not whether prayer works, but whether we are willing to pray the kinds of prayers that invite God's Kingdom into the darkest places of the earth—and of our own hearts. We may never fully understand the mechanics of prayer, or how it intersects with God's sovereignty, but we are not called to understand everything. We are called to be faithful. And faithfulness means showing up—in prayer, in persistence, in expectation. So today, let us pray not only for the comfort of our hearts, but for the transformation of the world. Let us take our place as image-bearers, co-laborers, and co-heirs. Let us believe that God is still listening—and still acting. Because He is. There's only one way to find out what might happen when we truly pray like this. Let's begin. THE MINDSET BEHIND THIS COURSE Before we begin, let me tell you the obvious: I don't really know how to pray. I'm a humble student and absolute beginner at the holy endeavor that is prayer. So, this course isn't really about what I've learned, or any wisdom I might have gathered. But, I've sat at the feet of many prayer warriors over the decades, through books and teachings. So, I'll share what I learned from them. Humility is going to be our primary heart posture! With each lesson, I will offer a few thoughts, practices, and ideas – with much humility, and not taking myself too seriously. I will also share her favorite books and resources about prayer. FInally, I will introduce you to some of the most influential prayer warriors of our history as the Body of Christ. Most importantly, I will invite YOU to pray! Learning to pray comes from praying. Our humble ambition is to inspire you to pray, and to give you a few tips on how to do that. Then, it's up to you! Prayer is a lifelong endeavor. Let's make it delightful together! So, let's get started. You are invited to join us on the Gospel Spice Prayer Bible Study, titled "The heart behind prayer" starting September 20, 2025! Details and registration here: https://www.gospelspice.com/prayer There are a few things in our Christian life that we know we should do more, or at least better – and prayer just might top the list. Prayer is a mystery. Why would a conversation with a human have any influence on God's eternal, sovereign plan? It defies logic, and beckons love. How can God, the Almighty Lord of Hosts, be this close, this personal? It defies understanding, and beckons involvement. But, lack of time, inspiration, and discipline, combined with the ruthless tyranny of our busy lives, push prayer to the periphery, to the “one day I'll get to it” pile. And yet, we can excel at what we endeavor to undertake. So, why isn't prayer more of a spiritual priority? Could we develop a mindset around prayer that made it attractive, inspiring, even maybe delightful? What if we attuned our spiritual ears to listen to God, and our spiritual eyes to see His provision? As an unassuming student, I'm going to humbly offer to share the little I have learned from others about the joy of prayer. I will give us theology, practical tips, and useful resources, sharing what works for me as we, together, learn to pray. If you find prayer intimidating, or if your lack of prayer makes you feel guilty or “less than,” then this is the place for you! If you have been a student of prayer for many years, this is the place for you too! If you have breath in your lungs, then prayer can become one of the deepest joys of your day. Don't miss out! A PERSPECTIVE ABOUT PRAYER To pray is to believe that God not only hears, but that He responds. It is to stand in the gap for a broken world, wielding the authority of Christ, empowered by the Spirit, and trusting in the goodness of the Father. The question is not whether prayer works, but whether we are willing to pray the kinds of prayers that invite God's Kingdom into the darkest places of the earth—and of our own hearts. We may never fully understand the mechanics of prayer, or how it intersects with God's sovereignty, but we are not called to understand everything. We are called to be faithful. And faithfulness means showing up—in prayer, in persistence, in expectation. So today, let us pray not only for the comfort of our hearts, but for the transformation of the world. Let us take our place as image-bearers, co-laborers, and co-heirs. Let us believe that God is still listening—and still acting. Because He is. There's only one way to find out what might happen when we truly pray like this. Let's begin. THE MINDSET BEHIND THIS COURSE Before we begin, let me tell you the obvious: I don't really know how to pray. I'm a humble student and absolute beginner at the holy endeavor that is prayer. So, this course isn't really about what I've learned, or any wisdom I might have gathered. But, I've sat at the feet of many prayer warriors over the decades, through books and teachings. So, I'll share what I learned from them. Humility is going to be our primary heart posture! With each lesson, I will offer a few thoughts, practices, and ideas – with much humility, and not taking myself too seriously. I will also share her favorite books and resources about prayer. FInally, I will introduce you to some of the most influential prayer warriors of our history as the Body of Christ. Most importantly, I will invite YOU to pray! Learning to pray comes from praying. Our humble ambition is to inspire you to pray, and to give you a few tips on how to do that. Then, it's up to you! Prayer is a lifelong endeavor. Let's make it delightful together! So, let's get started. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
Pillars and Practices // Praise, Worship, and Prayer Both Praise and Worship are in Part:Reverence (Awe)Recognition (Awareness)Revelation (Awakening)Response (Action) Hebrew WordsYadahPsalm 44:8 (NIV)“In God we make our boast all day long, and we will praise (yâdâh) your name forever.” Towdah Psalm 56:11-12 (NKJV)“In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?...I will render praises (tôwdâh) to you.” Zamar - To make music. To celebrate in song and music. To touch the strings.Psalm 144:9 (NKJV)“I will sing a new song to You, O God; On a harp of ten strings, I will sing praises (zâmar) to You.”Psalm 21:13 (KJV)“Be exalted O Lord, in Thine own strength, so will we sing and praise (zâmar) thy power.” Barak - To kneel. To bow down. To salute. To thank.Psalm 103:1 (NIV)“Praise (bârak) the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being praise his holy name.” Shabach - To address in a loud tone. To shout. To commend, glory, and triumph.Psalm 145:4 (NKJV)“One generation shall praise (shâbach) your works to another.”1 Samuel 4:5 (NLT)“When all the Israelites saw the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord coming into the camp, their shout of joy praise (shâbach) was so loud it made the ground shake! Tehillah - Derived from the word halal and means "the singing of halals, to sing or to laud; perceived to involve music, especially singing; hymns of the Spirit or praise.Psalm 22:3 (NASB)“Yet you are holy, and you are enthroned upon the praises (tehillah) of Israel.”Isaiah 61:3 (NASB)“To grant to those who mourn in Zion, Giving them a garland instead of ashes, The oil of gladness instead of mourning, The garment of praise (tehillah) instead of the spirit of heaviness, So they shall be called oaks of righteousness, The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.” Halal - Means "to be clear, to praise, to shine, to boast, show, to rave, celebrate, to be clamorously foolish."Psalm 113:1-3 (NKJV)“Praise (hallal) the Lord, praise (hallal) all you servants of the Lord, praise (hallal) the name of the Lord.”Psalm 150:1 (AMP)“Praise (hallal) the Lord! Praise (hallal) God in His sanctuary; Praise (hallal) Him in His mighty heavens.”Psalm 149:3 (NKJV)“Let them praise (hallal) His name in the dance: let them sing praises with the timbrel and harp.” The Hebrew word most often translated as worship is Shachah - to bow down or to be prostrate; it's used over 170 times in the Old Testament.Exodus 34:8 (NIV)“Moses bowed down and worshipped.” The Greek word most often translated as worship is ProskuneoMatthew 28:9 (NKJV)“And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, “Rejoice!” So they came and held him by the feet and worshiped him.”John 4:24 (NKJV)“God is Spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”Revelation 5:14 (NKJV)“Then the four living creatures said, “Amen!” And the twenty-four elders fell down and worshiped him who lives forever and ever.” These are Biblical, not just cultural or denominational, and they all have their place and time. As much as a people of Praise and Worship, we need to be a People of Prayer. Prayer as an Expression of Worship:An Expression of WorthOf ReverenceOf GratitudeOf DependenceOf Expectation Lord Teaches Us How to Pray:Our Father in heavenHallowed be thy nameYour kingdom comeYour will be doneOn earth as it is in heavenGive us what we need for today (our daily bread)Forgive us as we also forgive others (submission to God's work in me and through me)Lead us not into temptation/testing (lead us from temptation)But deliver us from the evil oneAdorationConfessionThanksgivingSupplication Types of Prayer:In the moment - Nehemiah 2:4-5Extended - Daniel 10 - 21 daysPrayer with fasting - focus and prioritizingWhat about tongues?? Read 1 Cor 14:1-19 Prayer is Both Individual and Communal or Interpersonal:When you pray, go into Private SpacePray for One Another, Bear One Another's Burdens This Tuesday Night and every first Tuesday, Prayer Night - Cards Available
I greet you in Jesus' precious name! It is Tuesday morning, the 2nd of September, 2025, and this is your friend, Angus Buchan, with a thought for today. We start in the second book in the Bible, Exodus 2:6: “And when she opened it, she saw the child, and behold, the baby wept. So she had compassion on him,…” This was a heathen woman who had compassion on a little baby that was crying, and of course, we know what happened after that. She took that little baby to be her own, and his name was Moses. She gave him that name, and he grew up to be one of God's chosen men. He took the Israelites out of bondage, out of Egypt and through the desert to the land of milk and honey.Then we go to the Book of Matthew 18:6: “But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” A millstone weighs approximately 5 tons. Jesus is making a very clear point this morning to you and to me. Jesus loves little children. Remember when He was tired and the mothers were bringing their children, their babies to Jesus so He could bless them? And the disciples were trying to help the Lord and keep the children back, and what did He say?“Let the little children come unto Me for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven.” Matthew 19:14The Lord is making it very plain today, sir and madam, look after that child. That child actually does not belong to you. That child belongs to God. He is just allowing you to look after that baby for Him. We had better do it. Don't neglect your children. Spend time with them, love them and discipline your children. There is nothing more embarrassing than to see a child - I saw it once in the game reserve - a child throwing its plate of ice cream all over the table, and the waitress had to try and clean it up, and the mother and father did nothing about it. What an embarrassment! I have never forgotten that as long as I live. Teach them good manners, love them, spend time with them, and most of all, be a good example to them. Jesus bless you and have a wonderful day,Goodbye.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of God's Word as the foundation for life, drawing from Nehemiah 13. The Israelites, upon returning from exile, prioritized reading the Book of Moses, discovering God's command to separate from Ammonites and Moabites due to their lack of kindness and attempts to curse Israel. The sermon urges believers to prioritize public and private Bible reading, obey God's Word despite societal pressures, and separate from ungodly influences, such as negative voices or immoral music, to maintain holiness and receive God's blessings.All these questions were answered just as Perry Stone, Jonathan Cahn, John Hagee, Jentezen Franklin, Benny Hinn, Chris Oyaklihome, Steven Furtick, Joel Osteen, Joseph Prince, Joyce Meyer, Paul Dhinakaran, Samuel Patta, Ezekiah Francis, Johnson Varghese, Paul Thangiah, Mohan C Lazarus, TD Jakes and others01.)What did the Israelites do when they returned from exile?02.)What was found written in the Book of Moses?03.)Why is the Word of God important?04.)What does the sermon suggest about reading the Bible?05.)How should one approach Bible reading and study?06.)Why did God forbid Ammonites and Moabites from the assembly?07.)What is the significance of kindness to God's people?08.)What does it mean to be a doer of the Word?09.)What does separation from ungodly influences entail?10.)What are practical steps for living a separated life?
What if your everyday complaints were actually a form of blasphemy? In this powerful exploration of Philippians 2:15-18, we discover the radical call to become "blameless and harmless children of God" in a world that values self-defense and righteous anger.The ancient Greek word "akareos" paints a striking picture of Christians as defenseless lambs without horns – completely vulnerable yet protected by the ultimate Shepherd. This counterintuitive approach challenges our natural instinct to defend our reputation, "clap back" at critics, or vindicate ourselves when wronged. Through personal stories and biblical insights, we see how taking the high road isn't weakness but profound spiritual strength.The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that our entire Christian journey begins and ends with simple trust in God. Just as the Israelites forgot God's mighty works and focused on their inadequacies, we too can lose our effectiveness when we shift the spotlight from God's power to our limitations. When facing impossible situations, our testimony should remain unchanged: "I trust God."My hope is that this podcast helps grow your faith and equips you to accomplish your dreams and goals!Follow me on InstagramFollow me on FacebookFollow me on TikTok
Word for Today: Exodus 1:12 NLT“But the more the Egyptians oppressed them, the more the Israelites multiplied and spread, and the more alarmed the Egyptians became.”Reflection:If you are facing oppression, delay or tough times, instead of seeing it as a setback, trust that God will turn it around for your good.
It was too late for swimming lessons. When 2 million Israelites arrived at the edge of the Red Sea with all the might of Egypt nipping at their heels, it seemed like it was game over. But where there was a sea, God made a highway. Maybe you feel up against the Red Sea in your own life. That job you've been waiting on falls through, the bills keep coming when your money runs out, you get that diagnosis you weren't expecting. In this message, Chuck Mingo shows us how God making a way isn't just something He does every once in a while. It's key to who He is. Recorded live at Crossroads Church in Cincinnati, Ohio.
QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“Waiting is not a waste.”~Mark Vroegop (author Dark Clouds, Deep Mercies, pastor, president of TGC)“In the waiting, in the searchingIn the healing, in the hurtingLike a blessing buried in the broken piecesEvery minute, every momentWhere I've been or where I'm goingEven when I didn't know itOr couldn't see itThere was Jesus.”~Zach Williams (Southern Rock artist), feat. Dolly Parton “Waters never part, until our feet get wet.”~Petra (Christian Rock group) “Life doesn't discriminateBetween the sinners and the saints.It takes and it takes and it takesAnd we keep living anyway.We rise and we fall and we break.And we make our mistakes.And if there's a reason I'm still aliveWhen so many have died,Then I'm willing toWait for it,Wait for it."~Leslie Odom Jr. as Aaron Burr in Lin Manuel-Miranda's Hamilton “The waiting is the hardest part.”~Tom Petty (Rock artist, 1950-2017) SERMON PASSAGEJoshua 3:1-3, 3:9-4:3 (NIV)Joshua 3 1 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….” 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.Joshua 4 1 When the whole nation had finished crossing the Jordan, the Lord said to Joshua, 2 “Choose twelve men from among the people, one from each tribe, 3 and tell them to take up twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan, from right where the priests are standing, and carry them over with you and put them down at the place where you stay tonight.”
In these dark times, we must fight evil with the most powerful weapons we have.The Rosary is foremost among them.Join the Great Rosary Campaign today at: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com.The Great Rosary Campaign is a yearlong mission for the conversion of cultural leaders. We will announce a weekly call to pray every Sunday for specific fallen-away Catholics and non-Catholics.THIS WEEK of the Great Rosary Campaign, we will pray for the conversion of former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama.The SUGGESTED PENANCE this week is a 24 hour water fast, adjusted for your state in life.Countless Saints and Popes have told us that the Rosary is incredibly powerful for three things in particular:1. Keeping the Faith2. Moral renovation3. Conversions of non-CatholicsThe Great Rosary Campaign is also based on several biblical themes and principles.First, PRAY FOR OUR BRETHREN. “Pray for one another…” (Jas. 5:16). “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6:10).Second, PRAY FOR OUR ENEMIES. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:43-44).Third, PRAY FOR ALL MEN, PARTICULARLY LEADERS AND THOSE IN AUTHORITY. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, or kings and all who are in high positions…” (1 Tim. 2:1-2).Fourth, GOING INTO BATTLE WITH THE ARK. When the ancient Israelites came to Jericho, God didn't tell them to besiege the city. Instead, He told them to march around it with the Ark of the Covenant seven times, and on the seventh the walls would fall. We will now "march" in prayer for seven days with the New Ark of the Covenant, Our Lady, through the Rosary. We pray in hope that on the seventh day, a day especially devoted to Our Lady (Saturday), extraordinary graces of conversion will be given to those we are praying for.Fifth, EVANGELISM AND APOLOGETICS = LOVE + ARGUMENTS + PRAYER + PENANCE. Ultimately it is God who reveals Himself to a soul, and empowers them to say "yes" to Him by His grace. He chooses to use us, but He does not have to. We must remember that as we evangelize and defend the Faith, our arguments will be fruitless unless informed by love (charity), and reinforced by prayer and penance.Sixth, RETURNING GOOD FOR EVIL. “Do not return evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but on the contrary bless, for to this you have been called, that you may obtain a blessing" (1 Pet. 3:9).Sign up to take part in the Great Rosary Campaign today: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com
Exodus 35:4-40:38 // Rachel NesseThis sermon explores the communal effort and divine guidance involved in the creation of the Tabernacle. We will examine the willing contributions of the Israelites, the skilled craftsmanship employed, and the step-by-step construction of the tent of meeting, the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and other sacred items. The sermon concludes with the cloud of God's presence filling the completed Tabernacle.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49482847PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2542/responses/new25.08.31
Pastor Samson's sermon “Lord of My House” from Nehemiah 13 highlighted how compromise in the home leads to compromise in God's house. He showed how the Israelites neglected worship, tithes, Sabbath, and spiritual disciplines, which opened the door for the enemy and eroded their faith. Pastor Samson challenged us to put our own houses in order, fighting cultural influences with God's Word, practicing covenant signs like worship and discipleship, and ensuring Jesus remains Lord of our homes so His gospel is central in our lives. Listen and be challenged. Support the show
Exodus 35:4-40:38 // Ben BeasleyThis sermon explores the communal effort and divine guidance involved in the creation of the Tabernacle. We will examine the willing contributions of the Israelites, the skilled craftsmanship employed, and the step-by-step construction of the tent of meeting, the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and other sacred items. The sermon concludes with the cloud of God's presence filling the completed Tabernacle.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49482848PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new25.08.31
Exodus 35:4-40:38 // Manny CheryThis sermon explores the communal effort and divine guidance involved in the creation of the Tabernacle. We will examine the willing contributions of the Israelites, the skilled craftsmanship employed, and the step-by-step construction of the tent of meeting, the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and other sacred items. The sermon concludes with the cloud of God's presence filling the completed Tabernacle.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49482849PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2553/responses/new25.08.31
Exodus 35:4-40:38 // Bill GormanThis sermon explores the communal effort and divine guidance involved in the creation of the Tabernacle. We will examine the willing contributions of the Israelites, the skilled craftsmanship employed, and the step-by-step construction of the tent of meeting, the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and other sacred items. The sermon concludes with the cloud of God's presence filling the completed Tabernacle.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49482850PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2546/responses/new25.08.31
Exodus 35:4-40:38 // Jacob VangenThis sermon explores the communal effort and divine guidance involved in the creation of the Tabernacle. We will examine the willing contributions of the Israelites, the skilled craftsmanship employed, and the step-by-step construction of the tent of meeting, the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and other sacred items. The sermon concludes with the cloud of God's presence filling the completed Tabernacle.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/49482846PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2574/responses/new25.08.31
In today's sermon on faith and gratitude, we look at events that happened over 3300 years ago. The spiritual pitfalls of forgetfulness demonstrated by the Israelites' journey from Egypt provide powerful insights into our own heart's struggles. Now as then, remembering God's faithfulness serves as the transformative power of our hearts. We see how our complaints might reveal deeper truths about our relationships with God. Join us as we delve into the beauty of God's provision and the ultimate hope found in the cross.
Psalm 130This summer we are looking at a group of Psalms known as the Songs of Ascents (Psalms 120-134). Sung by the Israelites as they traveled up to Jerusalem for different religious festivals each year, these Psalms have come to be seen as the songs that narrate the life of discipleship. As Eugene Peterson describes them, they are "Songs for the Road" as we follow Jesus through this life.This Sunday we will look at Psalm 130, a song about the reality of our own sin and our hope in a God who forgives us.
In this sermon from Psalm 137 and titled, "Have You Lost Your Song?" Pastor Byron explores the profound despair of the Israelites in Babylonian captivity, illustrating how they lost their ability to sing and rejoice. The sermon delves into the reasons behind their silenced songs; captivity, mockery from their captors, and a profound sense of loss. Pastor Chesney connects these themes to modern struggles where Christians may feel their joy and praise stifled by life's trials. He emphasizes that despite hardships, our spiritual song can be restored through repentance and a renewed connection with God.
Singing Our Faith: Go Down, CUMC Scripture: Exodus 5:1–6:8 (CEB)This week in our Singing Our Faith worship series, Central UMC welcomed guest preacher Rev. Lemuel Pearsall, Jr. to reflect on the story of Moses, Pharaoh, and God's unshakable promises. Standing before Pharaoh, Moses demanded freedom for God's people, only to see their burdens grow heavier — bricks without straw, beatings without mercy, despair without relief. Pharaoh's arrogance, the Israelites' frustration, and even Moses' own doubt all reveal how unbelief takes root in the face of suffering.Yet God's response is steadfast: I will bring you out. I will deliver you. I will redeem you. I will take you as my people. I will be your God. Seven promises of covenant love, each later fulfilled in Christ. Rev. Pearsall reminded us that faith is not the absence of questions, but where we bring them. Like Moses, we are invited to groan in the right direction — to lay our pain, doubt, and longing before God, who is faithful even when we are not.The legacy of the spiritual “Go Down, Moses” echoes this truth: God stands with the oppressed, delivers the enslaved, and calls us to confront the Pharaohs of our own time. Our hope is not in our strength, but in the God who has already said yes and amen through Christ Jesus.
Synopsis: The period of the Judges began with everyone doing what was right in their own eyes without a king, and the book concludes in the same way. The Israelites were more concerned to keep their word than to obey God's word, to avoid their own curses than to do what brought blessing. Their self-inflicted wounds provide opportunity for wise self-reflection: are we those who do what is right in our own eyes or will we submit to our King Jesus to live for Him? Verses in order of appearance: Judges 21:1-3 Ephesians 4:26-27 Judges 21:4-5 Judges 21:6-9 Judges 21:10-14 Matthew 15:7-9 Matthew 27:6-8 Romans 2:21-23 Judges 21:15-18 Deuteronomy 27:26 Judges 21:19-22 1 Corinthians 6:7 1 Peter 4:8 Ephesians 4:31-32 Judges 21:23-25 Proverbs 3:5-6 Verses mentioned but not displayed: 1 Samuel 11 1 Peter 3:17
"But I, with the voice of thanksgiving, will sacrifice to you; what I have vowed I will pay. Salvation belongs to the Lord!” Jonah 2:9 In the journey of life, every victory, no matter how small, is a stepping stone toward greater joy. Just as the Israelites marched around the imposing walls of Jericho, shouting praises to God before they fell, we too can find strength in our achievements. Reflecting on these moments can lift our spirits and remind us of the power of faith and perseverance. As Psalm 100 calls us to "enter His gates with thanksgiving," let us cultivate an attitude of gratitude that transforms our hearts and minds. Thanksgiving is like a river flowing with joy, carving its path through the landscape of our lives. When we pause to acknowledge our victories — whether overcoming fears or restoring relationships through forgiveness — we open ourselves to experience deeper peace. Remember, our act of giving thanks not only honors our progress but also invites God's presence into our circumstances. Psalm 30:11 says, "You turned my mourning into dancing; You peeled off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy." Each step forward, no matter how insignificant it may seem, deserves recognition. From January to this moment, think of your personal goals, either completing a project or acquiring a new skill, as seeds planted in fertile ground. With gratitude as your water and sunlight, these seeds will blossom into fruitful accomplishments. Just as David danced before the Lord in celebration of his victories (2 Samuel 6:14), we too can express joy for the milestones we've reached along our paths. As we reflect on the lessons learned from the past, let's not forget to celebrate our breakthroughs with a heart full of appreciation. Acknowledge the divine hand that has guided you through challenges, reminding yourself that every trial has a purpose and that purpose is to move you toward fulfillment and growth. Amen. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." Prayer for the Day!Heavenly Father, we thank You for each victory and breakthrough in our lives. Help us to reflect on our achievements with a spirit of thankfulness, recognizing Your hand in every moment. May we continue to grow in gratitude, allowing it to transform our hearts and lives. Guide us as we seek to honor You through our progress and inspire others along the way. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
The Covenant and the Blueprint — Review of Lesson #10 of the 3rd Quarter of 2025 -The Sabbath School Lesson study guide can be found here:— https://ssnet.org/lessons/25c/less10.html— https://www.adultbiblestudyguide.org/archives— https://sabbath-school.adventech.io/enThe title of this quarter's theme is: Exodus: Journey to the Promised LandFor the next 13 weeks (July to September 2025), we will look at the principles that God manifested towards Moses and the children of Israel, as He brough salvation and deliverance to them, in accordance with the covenant made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. But beyond just delivering the Israelites from bondage, God sought to establish a covenant relationship with them. We will study this progression during this quarter.Related Podcasts:— Everlasting Covenant— What Is Meant by "The Law" ?— The Law and Grace— Covenant at Sinai— Obedience is the Consequence, not the CauseRelated Podcasts at TrueWisdom:— God's Covenant— The Commandments— Looking at Psalm 119, Part 1— Looking at Psalm 119, Part 2— Importance of the Psalms— Teach me Thy Statutes— David's longest PoemText UsSupport the showSend questions or comments to: BibleQuestions@ASBzone.comThe Key Principles of Effective Bible Study is a resource which outlines core concepts shown in the Scriptures that will help you to better understand many Biblical themes and doctrines. We have a whole podcast series on these principles at BibleStudy.ASBzone.com/357512/8572886.God's Precious Word is a condensed, 9-part series based on the same resource. Check out these awesome Bible Maps! Lastly, we recommend that you check out https://TrueWisdom.buzzsprout.com for a related Bible Study podcast, in a different format, co-hosted with Robert Baker.We pray that all of these resources will be very helpful to you in your Bible Studies.
Judea, Samaria, West Bank: A Land of Many NamesIn this episode of Orientalistics, we journey through the deep history of the land once called Judea and Samaria—today widely known as the West Bank. From Neanderthals and Canaanites to Israelites, Babylonians, Romans, Ottomans, and modern powers, this land has been a crossroads of civilizations. We explore how names like “Judea and Samaria” arose from ancient kingdoms, how the Romans renamed it “Syria Palaestina,” and how in the 20th century the geopolitical term “West Bank” emerged under Jordanian rule. We also discuss Israel's reintroduction of the biblical names after 1967 and how each term reflects political, cultural, and historical identities. The episode highlights not just the shifting borders and rulers, but the layers of human life and meaning that give this land its unique resonanceKeywords#JudeaAndSamaria; #WestBank; #HistoryOfPalestine; #BiblicalHistory; #Canaanites; #Israelites; #AncientNearEast; #BabylonianExile; #AssyrianEmpire; #RomanEmpire; #SyriaPalaestina; #OttomanEmpire; #BritishMandate; #JordanAnnexation; #SixDayWar; #OsloAccords; #MiddleEastHistory; #OrientalisticsPodcast; #IdentityAndNaming; #Archaeology
In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Join The Journey volunteer, Matt Olson about Ezekiel 39-43. In this passage, Ezekiel and the Israelites are experiencing a separation from God. Matt reminds us that God's character is, and always be redemptive. They also explore the different views on Ezekiel's vision of the temple and what it means, both at that time and for us today. Additional references: Hebrews 10:14; Romans 12:1Apply to be on the Join The Journey Resource Team! https://www.watermark.org/search/serve?query=Join%20the%20journeyYou can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources!https://www.jointhejourney.com/Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981dfCheck out the study sheet for the book of Ezekiel: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/1nfYhjBL8GoghOiWIQ8idp/72e3e691a949f1ca64db8f43b2a07eda/26-Ezekiel-Study-Sheet.pdf
During his church’s fall retreat at a nearby camp, Pastor Jeff took a walk with my son, who led him through a wooded trail to the outdoor chapel. Suddenly they came upon the ark of the covenant! Of course, it wasn’t the real ark, but a life-sized, gold-colored replica begun by my husband years ago, with Jeff’s encouragement, and recently completed by my son as a surprise. Jeff was so thrilled, he hurried to enlist others to help him bring the ark to the camp dining hall. What a sight to see the men carrying the ark down the road as two of the pastor’s little grandsons trailed behind hand-in-hand! Scripture tells of the joyous occasion when the real ark of the covenant, which symbolized God’s presence with His people, was brought from the house where it had been kept into its proper place in Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:12). King David was so overjoyed he danced “before the LORD with all his might” as the people shouted and trumpets sounded (vv. 14-15). Years later, the Israelites were taken captive to Babylon and Jerusalem was destroyed (2 Kings 25). Scripture doesn’t tell us what happened to the ark. Legends abound, but we no longer need the ark to enjoy God’s presence (John 14:16-17). Through Jesus’ death, resurrection, and sending of the Spirit, God is with all who believe in Christ. That’s an excellent reason to rejoice!
The Gospel of John Week 9 Scripture: John 5:41- 6:22. The feeding of the 5,000 (this is 5,000 men plus all the women and children there). Speculation is that there were close to 10,000 people there and from five loaves of barley bread and two fish, Jesus multiplies the food and feeds all 10,000. And not just a small portion, but as much as they wanted! Can you picture it? What is everyone thinking? What are they whispering to each other about this amazing miracle? Then Jesus has the leftovers gathered filling twelve baskets. This feeding of the 5,000 happened during Passover - a time the Jewish people remember God delivering His people from captivity, feeding them manna and leading them out of captivity by tribes. 12 tribes feed manna by God and now we have twelve baskets and the people fed fish and loaves by Jesus. Jesus is providing for them just as the Heavenly Father did in the wilderness. With this being Passover - this likeness had to be obvious to them, because we read that they began to recognize that Jesus is the One Moses predicted. John 6:14 “After the people saw the sign Jesus performed, they began to say, “Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.” In Deuteronomy we read “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him.” Deuteronomy 18:15) They thought when Messiah came He would bring them back to the glories of the time of King David and so Jesus withdraws to a mountain by Himself. “Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.” John 6:15 Pastor speculates on which mountain this may have been and shares pictures. Later that evening the disciples went to their boat and set off into the Sea of Galilee. Pastor then shares the discovery of a Sea of Galilee boat found in the summer of 1985. There was a drought and the Sea of Galilee had sunk to a new low and a couple brothers, amateur archeologist, went searching for items of antiquity and they found a 2,000 year old fishing boat from Jesus' day! Our story continues with the disciples struggling against a storm and they see someone walking toward them. They do not recognize it is Jesus until He says, “I Am, don't be afraid.” This is the same name God gave Moses, “I Am.” Jesus is saying He is the God of the Old Testament who appeared to Moses. When we are going through the storms of life - the person we want in the boat with us is Jesus! The story continues with “Then immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.” What was that like!!?? The author, John, continues to emphasize who Jesus is - Jesus is the One that Moses predicted - He is the Living God who took on human flesh, gave Himself for all, and shows us all the attributes of the Divine in His life, ministry and work. And His disciples are coming to the realization that Jesus is the One that Moses predicted! He is the only One who can deliver His people and He does only what God can do. These stories are Real people in Real situations, in a Real boat, encountering the Real Savior! And that changes their lives forever - May it also change the lives of everyone of us! Our website – https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 ⁃ The Gospel of John study is part five of five of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. ⁃ The Gospel of John may be one of the most powerful books ever written. Many people have come to faith after reading only this book of the Bible. Scholarly and archeological discoveries in recent decades give us new insight on details in the Gospel of John. We can now understand it as the most Jewish rather than the most “Gentile/Greek” of the Gospels, and when we do that we see many things that we missed before. Our 2 year study of the gospels is great for large group, small group or home group study and can be started at any time!
In this episode of the audio Bible in a year, we continue through the book of Ezekiel as well as Daniel. These prophets continue to speak into the Israelite people, even when they do not listen. If you've any questions for the recap let me know at jwfrazer@presbyterianireland.org
In this recap at the end of week 34 we look back over the last two weeks and see how these books reflect something of the Israelites, but also us in the present - how the hearts of people can often be entirely different to how their actions speak.
In our hymn study this weekend we look at a famous hymn by Welsh hymn writer, William Williams. Williams was known as the "Watts of Wales" comparing him to Isaac Watts of England. In this hymn Williams uses the history of God's Old Testament people as an analogy for our earthly lives. He uses historical accounts of the Manna God provided from heaven for the Israelites, the pillar of cloud and fire, the water that God brought forth out of a rock, and finally the crossing of the Jordan river into the Promised Land of Canaan as illustrations of God's guiding and protecting hand in our lives today. Just as the Children of Israel were strangers in the wilderness, looking ahead to the Promised land of Canaan, so we are also strangers in this world of sin, looking ahead to the Promised Land of Heaven. Our prayer is that God would guide us, defend and protect us and feed and nurture us both physically and spiritually throughout our earthly lives, until He finally brings us across the river of physical death and delivers us into His eternal kingdom. May the LORD enrich our understanding of His word and cause us to appreciate His presence in our lives and His defeat of death in Christ, which gives us confidence in our eternal future!
What is the Valley of Dry Bones and Gog and Magog? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and faithful Watermark member Matt Moss discuss God's works of renewal observed in Ezekiel 35-38 and how He breathes life into the Israelites as they enter the Promised Land once again.Additional Scripture:John 15:5 – “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”1 Thessalonians 5:19 – “Do not quench the Spirit.”Additional Links:Have questions? Check out Watermark's Great Questions ministry!https://www.watermark.org/ministries/great-questionsYou can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources!https://www.jointhejourney.com/Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981dfCheck out the study sheet for the book of Ezekiel: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/1nfYhjBL8GoghOiWIQ8idp/72e3e691a949f1ca64db8f43b2a07eda/26-Ezekiel-Study-Sheet.pdf
4:14 - Malachi 4:2, who is the Sun mentioned here? / 16:21 - Did the rock that Moses struck travel with the Israelites? / 20:21 - Are we supposed to use the Lord's prayer as a pattern? / 32:14 - Is the rock that Moses struck mentioned in 1 Corinthians 4:1? / 38:29 - Is Matthew 24 about the people who died in the flood?
Explore the pivotal moment in biblical history as King David brings the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. This episode delves into the significance of Jerusalem as God's chosen city and the importance of the Ark as a symbol of God's presence. Learn about David's initial attempt to transport the Ark, the tragic incident involving Uzzah, and the ultimate successful procession into Jerusalem. Discover how this event highlights the delicate balance between God's love and His holiness, and the importance of obedience in worship. Key topics include: David's reign, conquest of Jerusalem, the Ark of the Covenant, God's holiness, and ancient Israelite worship practices. 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: @biblelitTwitter: @bible_litFacebook: @biblelitEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.org Want to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out ou...
If Jesus hadn't ascended and applied the blood to the mercy seat in Heaven, it would be as if an Israelite has slain a Lamb and not applied the blood to the doorpost on the night of Passover in Egypt. If Jesus hadn't ascended, He would not have been able to pour out His Spirit from the Heavens. His ascension is critical to our covering, our cleansing, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and in this revelation lives an invitation for us, also, to be ascended with Him! Come stand in awe with us as we magnify Jesus for this great work He has accomplished. THE BRAVEHEART SUMMIT REGISTRATION IS LIVE! Secure your spot today! What is the Braveheart Summit? It is a rallying point for Bravehearts. If you're hungry for God, eager for true connection with others, and ready to grow deep in the faith of the gospel, this Summit is for you. Whether you've been running with Braveheart for years or are new to our podcast or free video series, you're invited to join us in this holy gathering. The Summit is not an end point, it's a launching point. We purpose to gather, to magnify Jesus, to uplift the body of Christ and to return home on mission refreshed, radiant and ready to run.Details - November 6th-8th in San Antonio, Texas Click here to register. Click here to pay it forward. Send us a textSupport the show
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Are you so drained waiting for your promise? Waiting for that restoration? Waiting for that Healing? Prodigal to return home? That fruitful blessing over your business, ministry, or family? God is good and his word Always stands and his words are always true. But sometimes we can grow weary just like the Israelites did. We must be careful not to prolong our own blessings and promises because of our disobedience..You will be so encouraged in this message, just hit play! Join Us In The Christian Mom Community- SCRIPTURE OF THE MONTH! https://www.facebook.com/groups/christianfemaleentrepreneur Freebie- www.simplyjenniferbrown.com
NaaahhhMan & Greedy Gehazi 2 Kings 5 Chew the Bible Season 3Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army, was a powerful and respected man, but he suffered from leprosy. A young Israelite servant girl told Naaman's wife that the prophet Elisha in Israel could heal him. Naaman went to Israel with a letter from his king and gifts, but the king of Israel panicked, thinking it was a trick. Elisha then invited Naaman to come to him.When Naaman arrived, Elisha did not meet him in person but sent a messenger telling him to wash seven times in the Jordan River. Naaman was offended at first, expecting a dramatic miracle, but his servants persuaded him to obey. After dipping seven times, he was completely healed, and his skin became like that of a child. Grateful, Naaman returned to Elisha, confessed that the God of Israel was the only true God, and offered gifts, which Elisha refused.However, Elisha's servant Gehazi, driven by greed, secretly went after Naaman and lied to obtain some of the silver and clothing. When Gehazi returned, Elisha confronted him, knowing what he had done, and declared that Naaman's leprosy would cling to Gehazi and his descendants forever. Gehazi immediately left Elisha's presence covered in leprosy.
Man-Child and Bride Throne (audio) David Eells 8/27/25 Please be patient as I lay a little foundation for anyone who may be new to this. Jesus laid down His physical body, not only to take on glorified body, but also in order to take on a spiritual, corporate body through His Word abiding in the saints. The Man-child is a corporate body within the Church, which will be the firstfruits in whom the full Word is manifested. Like Mary, each believer has the seed of Jesus, the Word of God, growing in him as a baby in the womb of his heart. As in the parable of the Sower, when the seed of the Word is sown in good ground, it will bring forth the fruit of Christ, 30-, 60- and 100-fold. As the inner, spiritual man grows in the image of Jesus, the outer, carnal man is dying. (2Co.4:16) Wherefore we faint not; but though our outward man is decaying, yet our inward man is renewed day by day. The resurrection life of Christ is being manifested in us through death to self (Philippians 3:10-15). As we are united with Christ in His death, we, too, travail over our death to this world. Jesus tells us that this sorrow of travailing in death to self would give way to the joy of bringing forth the life of Jesus: (Joh.16:20) Verily, verily, I say unto you, that ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. (21) A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but when she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for the joy that a man is born into the world. Jesus' disciples were likened to a woman in travail who brings forth the man-child in the image of Jesus in Revelation 12. Verse (22) And ye therefore now have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no one taketh away from you. He will see us again first in the Revelation 12 Man-child body of reformers. Just as Christ was the firstfruits in His time, the end-time Man-child is the firstfruits of those who manifest Christ after a time of apostasy (falling away). Seeing this full manifestation of "Christ in you" as already accomplished at the cross brings power from God to manifest it in the natural, which we do by faith as it says in (2Co.3:18) But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord the Spirit. Paul tells us that Jesus comes in our mortal flesh, not glorified bodies. (2Co.4:10) Always bearing about in the body the dying of Jesus, that the life also of Jesus may be manifested in our body. (11) For we who live are always delivered unto death (to self) for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal flesh. (Gal.4:19) My little children, of whom I am again in travail until Christ be formed in you. Through death to self, we no longer live, but Christ lives in us and does His work through us. (Gal.2:20) I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I that live, but Christ liveth in me: and that [life] which I now live in the flesh I live in faith, [the faith] which is in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself up for me. God is raising up a corporate Man-child of spiritual Davids in these days, and they will lead the Bride; they will be the head of the Bride to bring them to maturity. We know that Jerusalem is the Bride, according to Revelation. The firstfruits of Christ coming to be manifested in His people is the David Man-child ministry. We read in (Luk.1:32) He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Most High: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David. 33 and he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. This is of course, Jesus but it is also Jesus in the Man-child as history repeats on a larger scale. What many do not know is that David's throne was the throne of God that Jesus, and now Jesus in the Man-child, is caught up to. (2Ch.9:8) Blessed be the Lord thy God, who delighted in thee, to set thee on his throne, to be king for the Lord thy God: because thy God loved Israel, to establish them for ever, therefore made he thee king over them, to do justice and righteousness. Notice that the throne of God was for the purpose of ruling over His people on earth, just as David and Jesus did and will do again. This is not a carnal king or a carnal throne. This is not going to be anybody glorifying flesh here; this is going to be the Lord, once again, coming in humble flesh in order to do His work and to be the spiritual leader over His people. He is the one in whom the Son of God lives. That spiritual David will be sitting upon God's throne on earth. He said, He that overcometh, I will give to him to sit down with me in my throne, as I overcame, and sat down with my Father in His throne (Rev.3:21). Jesus overcame and He sat down on the throne of God, which, once again, is an earthly but spiritual place of authority. He is coming in us; He's coming in a firstfruits to rule and to reign, to lead God's people back to the ways of righteousness, to rebuild the tabernacle of David and the kingdom of David. John wrote of this Man-child and throne long after Jesus' ministry. (Rev 4:1)...Come up hither, and I will show thee the things which must come to pass hereafter. So this was not about Jesus physically but about Him in the Man-child body. (Rev.12:5) And she was delivered of a son, a man child, who is to rule all the nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and unto his throne. (6) And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that there they (the Man-child company) may nourish her a thousand two hundred and threescore days. The firstfruits Man-child company will be caught up to the throne of God to minister to the Church in the wilderness for 3 ½ years as Jesus did and history repeats. This throne represents Jesus exercising His authority on earth through the Man-child body filled with His Word and Spirit. He said to His disciples, "As the Father hath sent me so send I you" (Joh.20:21); and "What things soever ye bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and what things soever ye loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven" (Mat.18:18); and "He that receiveth you receiveth Me" (Mat.10:40). Of course, no one will ever sit on the throne but "Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Col.1:27), for it is always He who rules in the heart and head of His Body that is to be the Word made flesh. The kingdom of David will be restored, as it was in Jesus' day and in our day. At that time they shall call Jerusalem the throne of the Lord; and all the nations (Gentiles) shall be gathered unto it, to the Name of the Lord, to Jerusalem (Jer.3:17). Notice that Jerusalem represents the Name of the Lord. The word for "name" means the "nature, character and authority" of the Lord. So, we see a throne within a throne. We see David's throne in Jerusalem but we see all of Jerusalem as the throne and also the Bride. God is restoring the type of the kingdom of David. He's restoring the Bride and He's restoring the Bridegroom. Yet again ... the voice of the bridegroom and the voice of the bride (Jer.33:10-11) will be heard in spiritual, heavenly Jerusalem. Now I have a few revelations to share that relate to those who will be chosen to this position of the throne of the Man-child and the Bride. Anointed Ministries Lead in Tribulation M.C. - 04/08/2011 (David's notes in red) The setting seemed to be dusk, but with enough lighting so I could see. (Dusk is that time between day and night, indicating here a transition into darkness.) On the road there were many troop trucks with no canopies filled with UBMers who were standing, waiting to be taken to a major event. (Having no canopies represents the Son shining in. UBM ministry with its people are getting ready, in the light of the Son, and in position for the spiritual battle with the beast, harlot, earthquakes, economic fall, tribulation, persecution, sickness, demons, etc.) I've tried very hard to remember the event, but I haven't been able to remember it yet. (You don't remember it because it will not be revealed beforehand. Nobody except God knows the specifics of what is coming, but everyone will be given specific personal direction when the time comes.) I wasn't yet, or at least I didn't feel, qualified to be in the trucks. (This is reflecting what probably most of us feel like in our present state -- not worthy and not quite ready yet to be marching on as peaceful warriors and anointed saints of God.) Everyone had been waiting for a long time. (We have been waiting for a long time because God is warning, and cleaning out the factious, and getting the elect ready as the time draws near.) All of a sudden, David said, "OK, it's time to go!" (David leading the troops represents the anointed Man-child ministry on a global level, leading the saints, including UBM, into the wilderness tribulation, like Moses and Jesus did.) So we all piled into his open-top army jeep, which was somewhere at the back of the convoy and we sped off past all the troop trucks. (The top open represents the Davids' unhindered communication with the Father. The jeep speeding past all the troops represents the David/Man-child ministries' leadership of the Church becoming stronger, as it was in Jesus' day. Those who were in the jeep but not driving could be the bride and witnesses who will receive the same anointing.) It was a very exciting moment. We roared past the first truck at the front of the convoy and headed into the dark tunnel ahead (which is the tribulation ahead). David waved his hand and called out jovially to the convoy, "The first shall be last and the last shall be first!" (We are seeing here the fulfillment of prophecies and the promises of God coming true. After having been last for so long, the David ministries shall now be first to lead the battle in tribulation). If I remember right, the tunnel was fairly short at the beginning of the trip. I suddenly realized that I was in his jeep but should have been in the last truck, if at all. (This represents all the believers who are "poor in spirit" and don't think highly of themselves and don't believe they deserve this privilege of being in the Man-child or Bride companies. Yet they shall inherit the Kingdom of Heaven and be in the firstfruits.) I was very embarrassed and turned around in my seat, trying to face the convoy, putting my hands together in a gesture, and asking for forgiveness for getting ahead of where I should have been in the lineup and yelled, "Please forgive me!" (Their natural humility shows they did not feel they earned this position. But we are accounted worthy through our faith that it is ours by grace.) Then I turned back around in my seat and just started to cry. (This could be weeping for joy and gratitude for such grace and anointing flowing to us freely from the Lord.) I think we were all very happy to be finally headed toward the destination. The darkness of the tunnel didn't seem to matter. (The first job of the anointed David ministries is to secure Jerusalem, the Bride, from the old man of the land, as it says in 1 Chr.11:3-5 So all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron; and David made a covenant with them in Hebron before Jehovah; and they anointed David king over Israel, according to the word of Jehovah by Samuel. 4 And David and all Israel went to Jerusalem (the same is Jebus); and the Jebusites, the inhabitants of the land, were there. 5 And the inhabitants of Jebus said to David, Thou shalt not come in hither. Nevertheless David took the stronghold of Zion; the same is the city of David.) The Bride's Throne Authority Amos Scaggs - 04/17/2010 (David's notes in red) In a dream, there was a young woman. (Representing the Bride, who will sit in the throne of authority with the King) A man looking up at her was questioning how she got to the control room (God's throne room), which was visible but not easily accessible. (The way is straight and narrow and is visible in the Word but one must be faithful and dedicated in order to access it.) She said there was really nothing to it because she worked outside of the control room and had been there many times. (The dedicated ones have been working under the authority of the throne room of God.) (And this was to permanently attain to be a pillar in the temple of the Philadelphia Bride and to go out no more as in Rev.3:12.) The young woman climbed up a tall and very dangerous set of scaffoldings where the steps and handholds had to be precise to get to the control room. The man (who represents the false, corporate leadership) was invited to follow her but the way appeared too shaky and unstable for him. (It is impossible for the apostate leadership to exercise God's true authority, for they are unstable and double-minded and without the renewed mind. They cannot walk in heavenly places any more than the Pharisees could.) The man went around to the back where he found a set of steps that wasn't as steep as the ladder the woman had climbed. (Joh.10:1 ... He that entereth not by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. They don't come through the door Who is Christ, the Word.) He climbed to the top but couldn't keep up with the woman and lost track of her. On the way he met friendly people working with old equipment (representing inefficient, traditional ways). All the man found were dead-end rooms and people causing him to lose direction and sight of the young woman. ("Babylon" means "confusion". Their authority rests on religious degrees and titles. Jesus, Who is the Word, is the WAY. Only "he that overcometh" will sit with Jesus in His throne.) The man never found the control room where the young woman went. (You will never find the throne room of God's authority using traditional methods. There is a Bride emerging who sees and lives more of God than the old, antiquated and apostate church.) Death and Resurrection to the Throne Eve Brast - 12/16-17/15 (David's notes in red) Dream snippet I dreamed I was high above the ground, looking at a city neighborhood. Suddenly, everything began to shake. (These quakes are foreshadowed by the ones at Jesus' death and resurrection, which bring the same results to the Man-child reformer ministries, and will shake much of the population.) After the shaking ended, it seemed like everyone (of us) was relieved of some sort of burden. (The quakes will bring the resurrection life and anointing to the Man-child with miracles and a time of grace, safety, and reward to the Bride. Then the Church will enter the wilderness tribulation and deliverance from the burdens that the Israelites bore, slaving for the Egyptians, representing their old man. This would include deliverance from the financial burdens since the Egyptians were plundered of their wealth.) Some time passed as I watched children swinging and everything being peaceful, then I heard in my spirit, "After three days". (When Jesus died as a type of the Man-child's spiritual death, "after three days" came the resurrection and the "great earthquake" which we believe is the New Madrid quakes.) Once this was said, chaos among the people broke out everywhere and they were stealing and killing people and running around in a panic to survive. (This literally happened when the Egyptians lost their DS army at the Red Sea. After the reality of the quakes and financial shaking sets in, like "after three days", there would be great fear and panic, with survival instinct bringing out the worst in the lost. Martial law would bring bondage for those whose faith is in the Beast instead of Jesus. There was a shaking when Jesus died and then after three days, there was another great shaking when He arose. Mat.27:54 Now the centurion, and they that were with him watching Jesus, when they saw the earthquake (at His death), and the things that were done, feared exceedingly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God. And in Mat.28:2 And behold, there was a great earthquake (three days later at His resurrection); for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled away the stone, and sat upon it. Then there would be an empty grave for the Man-child, as we then see in the dream. Then I saw men digging up an old grave site. They were digging in red dirt and when they reached the bottom of the grave, they were amazed that it was empty. There wasn't even a coffin. (Reminiscent of Jesus, the Man-child, not being in the grave when they went to see.) This was a huge revelation to them and they went to look for David. They had many questions about this. (The spiritual resurrection of the Man-child will be a huge revelation. Then the people would be looking for the David/Man-child ministers after their death and resurrection to the throne, anointing would have been completed. Their many questions could be answered then by Jesus manifested in the anointed Man-child ministry.) This is all I remember from this dream. Dream - 12/17/15 I dreamed that David had just raised a man from the dead. (Because the Man-child Jesus resurrected Lazarus, many were coming to the Lord, so the chief priests decided to kill Jesus and Lazarus.) Everyone at UBM was excited and we knew it was time for "the feast". (The feast shortly after Lazarus' resurrection was Passover, which represented that the Man-child was crucified and there would be a Passover of judgment on the believers.) We all gathered on the upper floor of David's house and were setting up a very long rectangular table with a white tablecloth. (This table was for the Last Supper, the Passover: Luk.22:11 And ye shall say unto the master of the house, The Teacher saith unto thee, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples? 12 And he will show you a large upper room furnished: there make ready. And three days after the Passover was the resurrection of Jesus and His catching up to the throne, as a type of the beginning of the ministry of the Man-child of Revelation 12.) (Then we see this Passover beginning.) My oldest son, Noah, was nine years old again in this dream and he was demonized, so I brought him to David and he cast the demons out of Noah, who was completely restored. I was so glad to have my son restored to me! And I was just praising the Lord. (The people of God who dwell in the ark of Christ have a Passover covenant right to deliverance of every sort. When Jesus started His ministry, He began to deliver the people of God, as He said in Mat.15:24 But he answered and said, I was not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.) After the Passover feast, I was walking with my sons out to the parking lot. (A place of rest from man's works for vehicles of faith, which we are.) This was outside David's house because we were all going to the ocean. (This represents evangelism, the Great Commission, to the peoples, nations and tongues of those Christians under the Harlot: Rev.17:15 And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the harlot sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.) There was a long RV parked illegally in David's parking lot. (This is a dual prophecy. Those resting in the flesh, as an RV or recreational vehicle, during the harvest are not in the rest of God and should not be in the parking lot that is for vehicles at rest from their own works. Also, we are expecting an RV, a revaluation, which will put us to work in the harvest and should not be resting in the flesh.) As I walked by it, I saw a fierce tiger painted on the RV's side. (I'm reminded of the term "paper tigers.") (Another dual prophecy. The faction fighting against the Man-child is a paper tiger with no authority or power with God. Whereas the Man-child driver of this RV is described like a tiger in Isa 11:4 ...shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth; and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.) As I passed by the open door of the RV, a painter who was an enemy of David's was mixing up some paint. (The factious leadership misrepresents the Man-child reformers through character assassination and would like to paint over the tiger. They disregard the authority and power of the tiger to their own undoing.) He turned to me and complained that we (UBM members) were all parking in front of his "NO PARKING" signs that he had placed all over the parking lot. (They think they have the power to bind or forbid the righteous. Like the faction against Jesus where Judas was a thief, so is the faction against the Man-child Davids of our day. They are Judas thieves claiming what is not theirs. Joh.10:10 The thief cometh not, but that he may steal, and kill, and destroy: I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly. And in Joh.12:6 Now this he said, not because he cared for the poor; but because he [Judas] was a thief, and having the bag took away what was put therein. I told him that he was the one illegally parked and that he had no right to be there. He said, "Well, there is my father over there; you need to talk to him!" Jesus told the Pharisees in Joh.8:44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father it is your will to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and standeth not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father thereof. So I went over and started talking to his "father". He started to repeat what his son had told me. But I refuted him at every turn and he became nervous and quickly began to leave the property. (The Bride is therefore subject to God as in Jas.4:7 Be subject therefore unto God; but resist the devil, and he will flee from you. The Bride has the real authority of the Lord due to holiness. Luk.10:19 Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall in any wise hurt you.) The next thing I remember, I was at the ocean with David and Michael and all the UBM members. We were swimming in the ocean and ministering to the people there. (Obeying the Great Commission by Evangelizing the lost sheep under the Harlot.) There was a dividing wall under the ocean water in the area that we were swimming in and David and Michael were near that underwater wall up to their necks. (The underwater wall represents the sanctification or division between the elect who will come to the Lord and the other side who will not.) I saw Lexi playing with and tossing a ball in the water with David. (Lexi means "protector of mankind.") Everyone was very joyous. (Because the revival had begun.) This is all I remember. Verse given on 12/17/15 and dreams Psa.18:3 I will call upon Jehovah, who is worthy to be praised: So shall I be saved from mine enemies. Please read the whole chapter! It really goes with the dreams. :O) Verse 1 For the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David (representing the David/Man-child company of Revelation 12) the servant of Jehovah, who spake unto Jehovah the words of this song in the day that Jehovah delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of Saul (The apostate leadership that died at the hands of their old man of the land as David became king): and he said, I love thee, O Jehovah, my strength. 2 Jehovah is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; My God, my rock, in whom I will take refuge; My shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower. 3 I will call upon Jehovah, who is worthy to be praised: So shall I be saved from mine enemies. (The Dragon of Revelation 12 will fail to devour the Man-child and Woman, by God's grace.) 4 The cords of death compassed me, And the floods of ungodliness made me afraid. 5 The cords of Sheol were round about me; The snares of death came upon me. 6 In my distress I called upon Jehovah, And cried unto my God: He heard my voice out of his temple, And my cry before him came into his ears. 7 Then the earth shook and trembled; The foundations also of the mountains quaked And were shaken (Major earthquakes are coming when the Lord visits in the Man-child company.), because he was wroth. 8 There went up a smoke out of his nostrils, And fire out of his mouth devoured: Coals were kindled by it. 9 He bowed the heavens also, and came down (the visitation of the Lord); And thick darkness was under his feet. 10 And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly; Yea, he soared upon the wings of the wind. 11 He made darkness his hiding-place (a visitation of the Lord, hidden in the Man-child ministry), his pavilion round about him, Darkness of waters, thick clouds of the skies. 12 At the brightness before him his thick clouds passed, Hailstones and coals of fire. (A judgment through Moses the Man-child to set God's people free from the beast of that day symbolizing our day.. Exo 9:24 So there was hail, and fire mingled with the hail, very grievous, such as had not been in all the land of Egypt since it became a nation. 25 And the hail smote throughout all the land of Egypt all that was in the field, both man and beast; and the hail smote every herb of the field, and brake every tree of the field.) 13 Jehovah also thundered in the heavens, And the Most High uttered his voice, Hailstones and coals of fire. 14 And he sent out his arrows, and scattered them (As He has told us of the faction, like the Sennacherib scenario and Joel's northern army being scattered.); Yea, lightnings manifold, and discomfited them. 15 Then the channels of waters appeared, And the foundations of the world were laid bare, At thy rebuke, O Jehovah, At the blast of the breath of thy nostrils. (He is coming with the earthquakes when the evil foundations of the beast are becoming known as today.) 16 He sent from on high, he took me (David Man-child is taken to the throne); He drew me out of many waters. 17 He delivered me from my strong enemy, And from them that hated me (The factions against the Man-child, as the Dragon, fails to devour him when he goes to the throne of David in Rev12:4-5. When Jesus went to the throne, He had complete dominion over the Sanhedrin faction and delivered them to the Roman Beast.); For they were too mighty for me. 18 They came upon me in the day of my calamity; But Jehovah was my stay. 19 He brought me forth also into a large place (An hour ago I got by faith at random in 2Sa 22:18-20, which is this same Psalm text. What a confirmation! The large place here is freedom of the Man-child to do his works in the Promised Land); He delivered me, because he delighted in me. 20 Jehovah hath rewarded me according to my righteousness; According to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me. 21 For I have kept the ways of Jehovah, And have not wickedly departed from my God. (The Davids who walk righteously, even in the trials of Saul's persecution, will rule. The Son of God who dwelt in the son of David, the Man-child, said in Mat.21:42 Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, The same was made the head of the corner; This was from the Lord, And it is marvelous in our eyes? 1Pe.2:7 For you therefore that believe is the preciousness: but for such as disbelieve, The stone which the builders rejected, The same was made the head of the corner. Throughout the history of the Bible, the faction has rejected God's ordained leadership, who was given authority to judge them.) 22 For all his ordinances were before me, And I put not away his statutes from me. 23 I was also perfect with him, And I kept myself from mine iniquity. 24 Therefore hath Jehovah recompensed me according to my righteousness, According to the cleanness of my hands in his eyesight. 25 With the merciful thou wilt show thyself merciful; With the perfect man thou wilt show thyself perfect; 26 With the pure thou wilt show thyself pure; And with the perverse thou wilt show thyself froward. 27 For thou wilt save the afflicted people; But the haughty eyes thou wilt bring down. 28 For thou wilt light my lamp: Jehovah my God will lighten my darkness. (Jesus manifested in the David Man-child reformers will give him authority over all our enemies and supernatural ability, as we will see.) 29 For by thee I run upon a troop; And by my God do I leap over a wall. 30 As for God, his way is perfect: The word of Jehovah is tried; He is a shield unto all them that take refuge in him. 31 For who is God, save Jehovah? And who is a rock, besides our God, 32 The God that girdeth me with strength, And maketh my way perfect? 33 He maketh my feet like hinds' feet: And setteth me upon my high places. 34 He teacheth my hands to war; So that mine arms do bend a bow of brass. 35 Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation; And thy right hand hath holden me up, And thy gentleness hath made me great. 36 Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, And my feet have not slipped. 37 I will pursue mine enemies, and overtake them; Neither will I turn again till they are consumed. 38 I will smite them through, so that they shall not be able to rise: They shall fall under my feet. 39 For thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle: Thou hast subdued under me those that rose up against me. 40 Thou hast also made mine enemies turn their backs unto me, That I might cut off them that hate me. 41 They cried, but there was none to save; Even unto Jehovah, but he answered them not. 42 Then did I beat them small as the dust before the wind; I did cast them out as the mire of the streets. 43 Thou hast delivered me from the strivings of the people; Thou hast made me the head of the nations: A people whom I have not known shall serve me. 44 As soon as they hear of me they shall obey me; The foreigners shall submit themselves unto me. 45 The foreigners shall fade away, And shall come trembling out of their close places. 46 Jehovah liveth; And blessed be my rock; And exalted be the God of my salvation, 47 Even the God that executeth vengeance for me, And subdueth peoples under me. 48 He rescueth me from mine enemies; Yea, thou liftest me up above them that rise up against me; Thou deliverest me from the violent man. 49 Therefore I will give thanks unto thee, O Jehovah, among the nations, And will sing praises unto thy name. 50 Great deliverance giveth he to his king, And showeth lovingkindness to his anointed, To David and to his seed, for evermore. Man-child Given Throne Dominion to Minister Cathy D's Vision 1998 (David's notes in Red) Cathy came to us and she was new to our teachings on these things, and reported that she had seen in a vision that some people were being taken from the earth by beams of light that came down and gripped them by their heads and drew them up into Heaven. She said that the Lord spoke and said "that these people had the secret of planting corn, the pure seeds". She said that in her vision, she was standing in the shadow of a building when she saw this. This is about the man-child being caught up to the throne of God, as Revelation 12 says, to receive anointing and dominion to minister on earth what they know of the true seed of God's Word. These, as reformers, are going to replace the apostate ministry in the heart of the true Church like Jesus, Moses, Joseph, etc., did. The building Cathy saw was the traditional Church which she saw spiritually standing in the shadow of at the time. As Jesus was a man-child on the spiritual throne of David to feed the woman, Israel, in her wilderness for 3 ½ years before the great persecution, so the end-time Man-child company in whom Jesus lives will feed spiritual, New Testament Israel, the Church, for 3 ½ years before their persecution. Rev.12:5 And she was delivered of a son, a man child, who is to rule all the nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and unto his throne. 6 And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that there they may nourish her a thousand two hundred and threescore days (3 ½ years).
Traffic came to a halt, but I had no idea why. There were few cars on the road, and I could see no obvious reason to be stopped. And then, suddenly—to my great surprise and delight—thousands of sheep emerged and crossed the freeway. As a newcomer to Idaho, I wasn’t yet familiar with the annual migration of the sheep into the Boise foothills each spring. Local ranchers escort their flocks into the foothills where they graze on the native grasses over the summer. Because I’d only lived in urban and suburban areas throughout my life, the sight was something of a spectacle to me. Yet sheep were a regular part of living in the days of Ezekiel (and much of the Bible’s recorded history). The prophet drew on something familiar to the people—sheep and shepherding—to convey God’s message to them (i.e. of comfort and hope). Ezekiel offered words of comfort and hope to the Israelites, telling them that despite the years of hardship in Babylon—the consequence of their recurrent rebellion against God—He’d one day restore them to “their own land” (Ezekiel 34:13). God would then, like a shepherd, “tend them in a good pasture,” and they would “lie down in good grazing land” (v. 14). God shows similar care for His people. We can trust Him, our Shepherd, to lead us forward through life—though we may feel “scattered” like sheep in the midst of difficulties—toward good pastures (vv. 12–14).
We're all waiting for a breakthrough of some kind. And all too often, in that time-in-between, we forget who God is. We forget what He's like. But if we forget who God is, we’ll forget who we are. On the next Equipped, guest host Susie Larson will explore the Israelites' journey out of slavery and into the Promised Land. Together, we'll learn how to navigate the time between the promise and the Promised Land. Featured resource:Closer Than Your Next Breath: Where Is God When You Need Him Most? by Susie Larson August thank you gift:The Quiet Time Kickstart by Rachel Jones Equipped with Chris Brooks is made possible through your support. To donate now, click here.
This week we talk about Miriam, Moses and Aaron's sister who helped lead the Israelite nation from exile in Egypt and through the desert. Miriam was a powerhouse woman who was courageous in Egypt, a leader for the people, and a steady force along with Moses and Aaron.Miriam is also known for her story in Numbers 12 when she and Aaron (who were grumbling about Moses and complaining about his position as leader of the trio) got mightily told off by God and she consequently was given leprosy for seven days. In this episode I reflect on why Miriam was the one to receive the physical punishment and how we find ourselves in the same sin as Miriam in our lives. Though we may know a lot about those we spend time with, we will never know them as God does. We can trust His will for them (and us), and we should never cease praying for one another as we continue on the journey. Please pray for me! I will pray for you too!
If you feel stuck and you're waiting for God to move but nothing ever seems to be happening... I promise you, God is always at work!In this episode, we dive into the stories of Jonah, Esther, Job, the Israelites, and Hannah to show you that waiting seasons are never wasted seasons. Each of these Biblical characters faced moments of fear, uncertainty, and delay — yet God was moving behind the scenes the entire time.Jonah reminds us that even when we run from God's plans, He can redirect our path.Esther teaches us to trust God's timing when courage is needed most.Job shows us how to hold onto faith when everything feels lost.The Israelites reveal God's faithfulness even in the wilderness.Hannah gives us hope that heartfelt prayers never go unheard.Whether you're facing a career change, praying for breakthrough, or simply waiting for clarity, this conversation will give you Biblical wisdom and encouragement to trust God's plan, even when you can't see what He's doing.Cheering you on,Kelsey Kemp & Audrey BagarusBOOK A FREE CALL WITH US THIS WEEK: https://portal.kelseykemp.com/public/appointment-scheduler/6222458612c06afee1de0032/scheduleFREE CAREER COACHING RESOURCES:Free Training: How to Find and Land a Job You Feel Called to in 8 Straightforward Steps → https://thecalledcareer.com/our-processMore of a reader? Download the 22 page PDF version instead → https://thecalledcareer.mykajabi.com/PDFFOLLOW US ON OTHER SOCIALS:
Hosts Pastor Vincent Fernandez and Guest Pastor Johnny Zacchio Question Timestamps: Anonymous, email (2:10) - How should I handle a situation where I'm dating a man 20 years older than me, and my parents are against the relationship? Nick, NY (4:44) - Why did the Israelites have to conquer the land of Canaan when it was given to Abraham? Why didn't Abraham have enough faith to remain in the land instead of going to Egypt? Thomas, NJ (7:48) - Should all believers speak in tongues? Reginald, AL (12:02) - Are you dispensationalists? How many dispensations are there? Where does the law end and the church age of grace come in? Robert, GA (19:57) - Can I get some prayer for my upcoming activities? Bridgefest Live Audience (23:31) - Are your finances cursed if you don't tithe? Are we still under the tithing law? Email (28:17) - Where did the Pharisees come from? When were they established? Jason, SC (33:30) - Are all angels male? Why does it say that sin entered into the world when Adam ate the fruit, when Eve ate the fruit first? Vladimir, NE (38:28) - I feel alone, now that I'm a new believer. Do you have any advice? Alice, GA (45:40) - Why did Satan keep chasing the woman that gave birth in Revelation 12 even after her child was taken up to heaven? What does it mean? Bob, NY (53:02) - What exactly is manna? Is there something similar that we can buy in the store? Santino, NJ (54:29) - Why do you have to close your eyes, bow your head, and fold your hands when you pray? Is it in the Bible? Ask Your Question: 888-712-7434 Answers@bbtlive.org
The Patriotically Correct Radio Show with Stew Peters | #PCRadio
For centuries, we've been told the modern-day so-called Jews are God's "chosen people," but author Ted Weiland exposes this historical fraud, revealing who the true descendants of the ancient Israelites really are. Tune in now for the biblical and historical proof that will expose the deepest lie in Christendom.
Read Online“Blind guides, who strain out the gnat and swallow the camel! Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You cleanse the outside of cup and dish, but inside they are full of plunder and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee, cleanse first the inside of the cup, so that the outside also may be clean.” Matthew 23:24–26Imagine if someone were to offer to wash the dishes after dinner and all they did was to wash the outside of the cups and bowls but left the inside untouched and then placed them back in the cupboard. The next time you would go to use them, you would find them looking good until you took them down and saw the dried liquid and food inside. This is the image that Jesus uses to describe the Pharisees. They only cared about the external appearance and ignored the more important interior of the soul.Jesus also used the contrasting images of straining out the gnat and swallowing the camel. This was a reference to the laws in Leviticus that forbade the Israelites from eating “swarming creatures,” such as gnats and other bugs, (Leviticus 11:41–45) as well as the meat of camels (Leviticus 11:4). Saying that the Pharisees “strain out the gnat and swallow the camel” was a figure of speech by which Jesus accused the Pharisees of distorting the smallest details of the law while ignoring the most important ones. For example, the Pharisees required everyone to strain all liquid before drinking it, just in case a gnat accidentally was present in that liquid, but they cared little about true justice when it came to killing the Son of God. For these reasons, the Pharisees had become “blind guides” and “hypocrites,” incapable of leading people to holiness.The bottom line is that Jesus is telling us that we must truly become holy, not just appear so. God sees the heart and judges the heart. The only other person who can see your heart is you. Therefore, we must also hear this condemnation of the Pharisees so that we will understand the importance of looking into our own souls first and foremost. From there, from the holiness within, our exterior will also radiate the holiness of God.One of the documents of Vatican II, Gaudium et Spes, beautifully speaks to us about the conscience: “Conscience is the most secret core and sanctuary of a man. There he is alone with God, Whose voice echoes in his depths” (#16). This “secret core and sanctuary” within us is what Jesus is most concerned about. Very often we are tempted to be far more concerned about how we look to others than how we truly are inside. For example, the person who lives a sinful double life may go to great lengths to look holy to others, doing all they can to hide their sin from others. On the contrary, someone might be living a very holy life but be falsely accused by another publicly, causing much pain. In the former case, as long as the person is not found out, they appear at peace. In the latter case, even though the person is living a good and holy life, if they are falsely accused, they may be tempted to despair as their public image is shattered.What others think and say about us is ultimately out of our control to a lesser or greater degree. What is within our control is that which is within us. Our interior life, that secret core, that sanctuary within where we meet God, must become the focus of our energies. Exteriorly, it ought not matter that others praise us or criticize us. What matters is that which is true, and only you and God can look into your heart to see that truth. The Pharisees failed to understand this essential truth. They put all their energy into their public image, neglecting that which was most important, making them incapable of leading others to God. Reflect, today, upon your soul. How often do you look inside yourself? Are you able to be honest with yourself, acknowledging your sin and being grateful for your virtue? Or are you among those who are more concerned with how you look to others? Turn your eyes to the secret sanctuary within because it is there, in that secret core, that you will meet God, grow in holiness and then radiate that true holiness within our world. When that happens, God will also be able to use you to be a true guide to holiness for others. Lord of true holiness, You desire to cleanse my soul, and You invite me to meet You there within. Please give me the grace I need to care more about my holiness within than the external perceptions and judgments of others. May I become holy, dear Lord, and learn to become an instrument of that holiness for others. Jesus, I trust in You.Image via Brooklyn MuseumSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.
Catch up on the last All Gathering Teaching! Austin Wofford walks us through Exodus 13:17-22 and the Israelites' journey through the wilderness.
Have you ever been duped and suffered the consequences? As Joshua's story unfolds, we witness the Israelites' struggle with manipulation and deception when they fail to seek God's counsel. Even so, God is faithful as they turn back to Him!July 27, 2025
Full Text of ReadingsTwenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 123The Saint of the day is Saint BartholomewSaint Bartholomew’s Story In the New Testament, Bartholomew is mentioned only in the lists of the apostles. Some scholars identify him with Nathanael, a man of Cana in Galilee who was summoned to Jesus by Philip. Jesus paid him a great compliment: “Here is a true Israelite. There is no duplicity in him” (John 1:47b). When Nathanael asked how Jesus knew him, Jesus said, “I saw you under the fig tree” (John 1:48b). Whatever amazing revelation this involved, it brought Nathanael to exclaim, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel” (John 1:49b). But Jesus countered with, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this” (John 1:50b). Nathanael did see greater things. He was one of those to whom Jesus appeared on the shore of the Sea of Tiberias after his resurrection (see John 21:1-14). They had been fishing all night without success. In the morning, they saw someone standing on the shore though no one knew it was Jesus. He told them to cast their net again, and they made so great a catch that they could not haul the net in. Then John cried out to Peter, “It is the Lord.” When they brought the boat to shore, they found a fire burning, with some fish laid on it and some bread. Jesus asked them to bring some of the fish they had caught, and invited them to come and eat their meal. John relates that although they knew it was Jesus, none of the apostles presumed to inquire who he was. This, John notes, was the third time Jesus appeared to the apostles. Reflection Bartholomew or Nathanael? We are confronted again with the fact that we know almost nothing about most of the apostles. Yet the unknown ones were also foundation stones, the 12 pillars of the new Israel whose 12 tribes now encompass the whole earth. Their personalities were secondary—without thereby being demeaned—to their great office of bearing tradition from their firsthand experience, speaking in the name of Jesus, putting the Word Made Flesh into human words for the enlightenment of the world. Their holiness was not an introverted contemplation of their status before God. It was a gift that they had to share with others. The Good News was that all are called to the holiness of being Christ's members, by the gracious gift of God. The simple fact is that humanity is totally meaningless unless God is its total concern. Then humanity, made holy with God's own holiness, becomes the most precious creation of God. Saint Bartholomew is the Patron Saint of: Plasterers Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media
The oldest stories of Numbers were about the crises of leadership in the Babylonian captivity, told from two distinct perspectives: One from a populist perspective, and the other from an elitist perspective. The combined stories appear as one in Numbers, chapter 11.Shemaya's populist story (verses in ch 11):11 So Moses said to Yahweh, “Why have you treated your servant so badly? Why have I not found favor in your sight, that you lay the burden of all these people on me? 12 Did I conceive all these people? Did I give birth to them, that you should say to me, ‘Carry them in your bosom as a wet nurse carries a nursing child, to the land that you promised on oath to their ancestors'? 14 I am not able to carry all these people alone, for they are too heavy for me. 15 If this is the way you are going to treat me, put me to death at once—if I have found favor in your sight—and do not let me see my misery.”16 So Yahweh said to Moses, “Gather for me seventy of the elders of Israel, whom you know to be the elders of the people and officers over them; bring them to the tent of meeting and have them take their place there with you. 17 I will come down and speak with you there, and I will take some of the spirit that is on you and put it on them, and they shall bear the burden of the people along with you so that you will not bear it all by yourself. 24 ... and he gathered seventy of the elders of the people and placed them all around the tent. 25 Then Yahweh came down in the cloud and spoke to him and took some of the spirit that was on him and put it on the seventy elders, and when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied. But they did not do so again.26 Two men remained in the camp, one named Eldad and the other named Medad, and the spirit rested on them; they were among those registered, but they had not gone out to the tent, so they prophesied in the camp. 27 And a young man ran and told Moses, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.” 28 And Joshua son of Nun, the assistant of Moses, one of his chosen men, said, “My lord Moses, stop them!” 29 But Moses said to him, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all Yahweh's people were prophets and that Yahweh would put his spirit on them!” 30 And Moses and the elders of Israel returned to the camp.Ezekiel's elitist story (verses in ch 11):1 Now when the people complained in the hearing of Yahweh about their misfortunes, Yahweh heard it, and his anger was kindled. Then the fire of Yahweh burned against them and consumed some outlying parts of the camp. 2 But the people cried out to Moses, and Moses prayed to Yahweh, and the fire abated. 3 So that place was called Taberah, because the fire of Yahweh burned against them. 4 The mob of the camp followers with them had a strong craving, and the Israelites also wept again and said, “If only we had meat to eat! 5 We remember the fish we used to eat in Egypt for nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic, 6 but now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at.”10 Moses heard the people weeping throughout their families, all at the entrances of their tents. Then Yahweh became very angry, and Moses was displeased. 13 Where am I to get meat to give to all these people? For they come weeping to me, saying, ‘Give us meat to eat!' 18 And say to the people, ‘Consecrate yourselves for tomorrow, and you shall eat meat, for you have wailed in the hearing of Yahweh, saying, “If only we had meat to eat! Surely it was better for us in Egypt.” Therefore Yahweh will give you meat, and you shall eat. 19 You shall eat not only one day, or two days, or five days, or ten days, or twenty days, 20 but for a whole month, until it comes out of your nostrils and becomes loathsome to you—because you have rejected Yahweh who is among you and have wailed before him, saying, “Why did we ever leave Egypt?”'” sewn 23 Yahweh said to Moses, “Is Yahweh's power limited? Now you shall see whether my word will come true for you or not.”24 So Moses went out and told the people the words of Yahweh.31 Then a wind went out from Yahweh, and it brought quails from the sea and let them fall beside the camp, about a day's journey on this side and a day's journey on the other side, all around the camp, about two cubits deep on the ground. 32 So the people worked all that day and night and all the next day gathering the quails; the least anyone gathered was ten homers, and they spread them out for themselves all around the camp. 33 But while the meat was still between their teeth, before it was consumed, the anger of Yahweh was kindled against the people, and Yahweh struck the people with a very great plague. 34 So that place was called The Tombs of Craving because there they buried the people who had the craving. Join our tribe on Patreon! Check out these cool pages on the podcast's website:Home PageWho wrote the Bible: Timeline and authorsAncient maps: easy to follow maps to see which empire ruled what and whenClick here to see Exodus divided into "sources" according to the Documentary Hypothesis The podcast is written, edited and produced by Gil Kidron
“But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15 NLT) Are you trying to live in two worlds? If so, then I know something about you. I know you’re not happy. Am I right? When you spend time around other Christians, you’re uncomfortable because of your sin. On the other hand, when you’re doing things you know you shouldn’t as a Christian, then you have the conviction of that sin. I have an idea: Stop doing that stuff. Make your choice. As Joshua said to the Israelites, “Choose today whom you will serve. . . . But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15 NLT). Every one of us must make that same decision. I can’t make it for you, and you can’t make it for me. Are you in a relationship that’s dragging you down? Think hard about the apostle Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 6:14–15: “Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? What harmony can there be between Christ and the devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever?” (NLT). Are you doing things that are weakening your resolve? Think about the disadvantage you’re creating for yourself and the opening you’re giving your spiritual enemy. Trying to live in two worlds is like trying to pitch a tent in no man’s land during a battle. You’re setting yourself up for constant bombardment. You’ll face spiritual battle after spiritual battle, and your enemy will have the advantage in every one of them. I’m not saying it’s easy to turn your back on sin. We all get tempted. We all struggle with our old nature. And as Christians, we all have a God who will give us the strength to do what He has called us to do. It comes down to this: Do you want to change? If you do, then God will give you the resolve you need. In Exodus 3, the Lord spoke to Moses through a burning bush. He instructed Moses to return to Egypt to demand that Pharaoh release the people of Israel from slavery. Moses’ reply went something like this: “I can’t do this. I don’t know what to say. I stumble over my words.” Two chapters later, Moses faced off against Pharaoh, perhaps the most powerful man on earth at the time. The sudden change wasn’t due to Moses’ self-improvement regimen. God gave Moses the strength he needed to accomplish His will. In the same way, God will give you the strength to do what you need to do. Don’t live in two worlds. Make a complete commitment to Jesus. Reflection question: Why is it so tempting to try to live in two worlds? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Reflecting on the stubbornness of the Israelites' hearts from today's readings, Fr. Mike teaches us that we cannot always trust our imperfect hearts, because they are not always aligned God's law and will, and they can often lead us into false worship. However, we can rely on God who promises to give us a new heart so that we can do what we ought. Today's readings are Jeremiah 7, Ezekiel 36, and Proverbs 14:29-32. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.