Podcasts about jehovah shalom

Deep in the heart of Israel, God desires to be known by His chosen people. Revealing Himself to Moses as Yahweh, the Great I Am, a name too holy to utter, the Israelites call Him Jehovah. Throughout the Old Testament, Jehovah responds to the faith of His people and shows Himself strong on their behalf. In remembrance of Jehovah's power and love, the people give Him additional names describing His ability and willingness to help in their lives. Each name describes the nature of the One True God! Each is Jehovah! Together, they are the J-Team!God chose Gideon to lead Israel in a fight against the Midianites. The Lord told Gideon, “I have sent you… I will be with you!” Gideon wanted a sign from the Lord to be sure that God was truly on his side. When Gideon realized this messenger truly was the Lord, he feared for his life because he had seen the Lord face to face! “Then the Lord said to him, ‘Peace be with you; do not fear, you shall not die,'” Judges 6:23. So Gideon built an altar there to the Lord and called it Jehovah Shalom, the Lord is Peace! You can read more about this story in Judges 6:1-24.#kids, #biblestoriesforkids, #storiesforkids,#bedtimestoriesforkids, #storiesforchristiankids, #biblelessonsforkids, #bestronginthelord, #namesofgod, #jehovahshalom, #thelordgodalmightyyourpeace, #thelordispeace, #fishbytesforkids, #fishbytes4kids, #fishbites4kids, #ronandcarriewebb, #roncarriewebbImage by Freepik

Episode Summary: If you’ve ever struggled with discouragement, and we all have because life is full of disappointment and disillusionment, then this episode is for you. In honor of National Day of Encouragement, my co-host, Rev. Jessica Van Roekel and I talk about How to Find Biblical Encouragement for Your Everyday Life. Discouragement can rob us of joy, peace, and a sense of purpose. Encouragement is more than a feeling - it’s a powerful tool to propel us toward hope and confidence even when life feels less than happy. Today we’re going to talk about how to find biblical encouragement for your everyday life. Quotables from the episode: In 2007, a group of young people at the National Leadership Forum at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas saw a lack of encouragement as one of the main obstacles that people face. While dedicating a day to encourage others is noble, we can experience encouragement every day when we turn to the Lord and receive his encouragement. The challenge to receive biblical encouragement is when we know God’s promises but don’t see him working. This topic is close to my heart because I’ve seen firsthand how knowing God, and his promises have encouraged me in the face of difficult and seemingly unchanging circumstances. I know many of our listeners and viewers struggle with discouragement, and my prayer is that today’s conversation will bring encouragement and hope. Knowing God’s names helps us learn to trust him. When we trust him, it’s easier to experience encouragement in our every day. Psalm 9:10 says, Those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you. Relationships are an area where we can experience extreme discouragement. Personality differences can create division. Unforgiveness leads to rifts. It can feel discouraging to desire a healing in a relationship, but every effort is rejected. We’ve talked about the temptation to judge God’s goodness based on humanity’s failures. If our in-person relationships are broken, and we don’t have a vibrant or growing relationship with God, we grow discouraged because we were made for relationship. Friend, if you’ve found yourself in a place of discouragement—especially when you're facing relationship struggles—you are not alone. As a neuropsychologist, I’ve seen how deeply our relationships impact not only our emotional well-being but also our brain health. God designed our brains for connection. We were created in His image, a God who is relational by nature, and He wired us for fellowship—with Him and with each other. When our relationships are strained, whether due to misunderstanding, unmet expectations, betrayal, or emotional distance, our brains register it as a threat. That triggers our stress response—what we often call “fight, flight, or freeze.” Over time, if that stress continues unchecked, it leads to anxiety, depression, trouble sleeping, and a foggy, overwhelmed mind. Our thought life becomes a battlefield, and discouragement sets in. But here's the hope: God doesn’t leave us to navigate this alone. He sees every tear, hears every unspoken word, and knows the condition of our hearts and minds. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Our healing begins when we bring both our brain health and our relational wounds to the Great Physician. Practical steps include tending to your thought life—taking every thought captive (2 Corinthians 10:5), practicing forgiveness to unburden your heart, and choosing truth over lies. Sometimes that means setting healthy boundaries or seeking wise counsel. And always, it means leaning into the One who offers peace that transcends understanding. Your brain can heal. Your heart can mend. And your relationships can be restored—if not with others, then certainly with the Lord, who is the source of all true comfort and strength. Discouragement may visit, but it doesn’t have to take up permanent residence. Knowing God as Abba leads us to know God as a wonderful Father. (Galatians 4:6) He is the Alpha and Omega – Jesus was in the beginning as the Word of God and he is God’s final word for all eternity. (Revelation 21:6) As Adonai, we recognize his leadership in our life. He is our Lord and Ruler. (Ezekiel 16:8) El Chay, or Living God, reminds us that the entertainments, enticements, and other distractions are not worthy of worship. (Psalm 84:2) El Roi, The God Who Sees, encourages us with God’s mercy, grace, and comfort. We are not invisible to him. (Genesis 16:13) Jehovah-Jireh, The Lord our Provider, tells us God is our provider, and it is the same Hebrew word as Moriah, the region where God sent Abraham to sacrifice Isaac. God may ask us to give something up, and he gives us himself in return, and becomes all we need. (Romans 8:32) Jehovah-Nissi, The Lord Our Banner, paints the picture that we live under God’s banner. It was the name revealed when Moses erected an altar to commemorate the defeat of their enemies. It encourages us that we live under God’s victory. He goes before us and comes behind us to make us victors in life’s battles. (Exodus 17:15) The Lord Our Healer, or Jehovah-Rapha, encourages us because God heals our hearts in the here and now. (Exodus 15:26) The Lord is Peace, Jehovah-Shalom, our security, sufficiency, and serenity. (Judges 6:24) Jehovah-Tsuri, the Lord our Rock, helps us remember God is permanent, faithful, protective, a firm foundation, a hiding place and shelter. (Psalm 18:2) Knowing the names of God gives us insight into his character, which encourages us when we face different situations where we need to rely on a different aspect of God’s character. For example, if someone feels discouraged because of life’s chaos, remembering God is Jehovah Shalom encourages their heart because God is their serenity. God is a covenant making and covenant keeping God. The primary promise of the covenant is the Lord’s promise to “be God to you and to your offspring after you.” The goal of God’s covenant with humankind is to bring salvation, not just to one nation, but to the entire human race. This covenant was eventually fulfilled through Jesus Christ as his followers began to spread the good news about him throughout the world. God made a covenant with Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, the Israelite nation, David, and finally the whole world through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Covenants, or promises, are conditional because they are based on the agreements of two parties. God cannot go back on his promises, but we can refuse the comfort of the promises when we fail to take God at his word and allow doubt to lead us to sin. Because of God’s covenants, we have promises like the promise of his presence. Isaiah 41:10 says, “Do not be afraid for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” (NLT) Deuteronomy 31:8, “‘Do not be afraid of discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (NLT) Isaiah 43:2, “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. Joshua 1:19, “This is my command – be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Those are wonderful reminders of God presence. I know I’ve needed to believe them by faith because sometimes what I see, and what I feel don’t match up with what I know to be true. I also cling to the promise of Victory found in: John 16:33, “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” Exodus 14:14, “The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, “Each time he said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, persecutions, and troubles I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” Isaiah 40:29, “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.” God promises to guide us: Psalm 32:8, “The Lord says, I will guide along the best pathway for your life. I will advise and watch over you. Psalm 37:23-24, “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand. Psalm 23:1-2, ‘The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. Not only does God promise us his presence, victory, and guidance, but he also promises rest, life, peace, and forgiveness: Rest: Matthew 11:28-29, “Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Life: John 3:16, “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” Peace: Isaiah 26:3, ‘You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you.” Forgiveness: 1 John 1:9, “But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleans us from all wickedness.” Our faith grows when we plant our feet on God’s promises. (Psalm 34:18) He is close to the broken hearted and rescues those who are crushed in spirit. (2 Cor. 4:8-9) We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. (Isaiah 54:17) “No weapon that is formed against you will succeed; And you will condemn every tongue that accuses you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their vindication is from Me,” declares the LORD. I think it starts with looking at the end of Hebrews 11, knowing the stories of those who have gone before us, remembering the past so we can encourage ourselves in the present and build hope for the future. Hebrews 11 opens with this verse: Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. The next several verses list people who lived by faith and received what God promised and those who died without receiving things promised and yet, they are commended for having faith. It’s faith in the promise maker which matters. Looking at our circumstances for “proof” of God keeping his promises leads to disappointment. Remember, faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen. Sometimes, we need to cling to other’s people’s stories when our stories are littered with doubt and disappointment. One story which encourages me when I am feeling discouraged is Mary, Martha and Lazarus when Lazarus became ill and died. That story reminds me that things are not always as they seem, but God always has a plan and he sees the end from the beginning. he bible is full of encouragement and doesn’t sugarcoat the difficulties people of faith faced. If Job can lose his entire fortune, family and health and still remain faithful to God—believing him to faithful and true—then I can look beyond my circumstances and see that God is bigger than what’s right in front of me. I can take the magnifying glass off of the things in my life that discourage me and point my magnifying glass to the God who breathes stars and breath in my lungs. I am encouraged by Abraham, when he looked the impossibility of his reality (too old to have children) and yet remained believing that God would fulfill his promise. I’ve been in situations where I couldn’t see a way forward and following Abraham’s example encourages me so much. Knowing God intimately is a great first step toward experiencing biblical encouragement. Understanding his heart and loyalty toward us is key. Second, we can remember to look beyond what we see to what we know to be true. Sometimes feelings follow an act of faith. Take Hebrews 11 to heart. Recommended Resources: Reframing Rejection: How Looking Through a Different Lens Changes Everything By Jessica Van Roekel Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Jessica Van Roekel: Website / Instagram / Facebook For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Co-Host: Jessica Van Roekel is a worship leader, speaker, and writer who believes that through Jesus, personal histories don’t need to define the present or determine the future. She inspires, encourages, and equips others to look at life through the lenses of hope, trust, and God’s transforming grace. Jessica lives in rural Iowa surrounded by wide open spaces which remind her of God’s expansive love. She loves fun earrings, good coffee, and connecting with others. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this message, Jeannie unpacks the powerful name Jehovah Shalom—the Lord is Peace—and reveals how God's peace isn't just the absence of conflict, but the presence of wholeness, stability, and divine assurance. Whether you're facing chaos, uncertainty, or internal battles, this word will remind you that peace is not a feeling—it's a Person. Discover how to anchor your life in the unshakable peace of God, no matter what storms are surrounding you. Don't miss this timely and hope-filled message!

The Names Of God | Message 4: Jehovah Shalom | Pastor Chad Dingess | 07/13/2025 by Bethesda Church

Peace making is at the heart of the Gospel and a value of the Kingdom of God. Rob preaches about how the God of peace (Jehovah Shalom) has given us a gospel of peace where we receive peace with God and are filled with the Spirit of peace. It is only by the Spirit of God that we can truly pursue the peace that God is looking for, since it is the God of Peace Himself who fills, empowers and enables us to be peacemakers out in our world, following the example of Jesus. 

* Prayer* Jehovah Shalom "The Lord is our Peace"* Judges 6:12-24

Guest preacher Kathleen Doyles teaches from Judges 6–8 where God reveals Himself as Jehovah Shalom, “The Lord is Peace.” Through Gideon's story, we see His patience and faithfulness in the midst of fear and chaos. True peace isn't found in our circumstances, but in God's unchanging character.

In this message, Pastor Mark Butler teaches on the redemptive nature of divine healing and the covenant God has made with His people. By walking through Galatians 3, Deuteronomy 28, and many other scriptures, he explains how sickness entered the world through sin, but healing was purchased through Christ. Pastor Mark highlights that believers have been redeemed from the curse of the law—including poverty, sickness, and spiritual death—and can stand on God's Word with confidence. The message unpacks the names of God—Jehovah Rapha, Jehovah Jireh, Jehovah Shalom, and more—to show how each one reveals His desire to provide, heal, guide, and be present. Pastor Mark encourages believers to receive the Word as spiritual medicine, resist symptoms with faith, and confess the promises of healing daily. With scripture declarations and practical application, this message reminds us that healing belongs to the children of God—not as a future hope, but as a present, covenant right.

Gideon had a revelation of the Lord as Jehovah-Shalom, "The Lord our Peace." Join Pastor Cameron as we consider how Jesus can bring peace into any situation - peace is not just a quality He possesses but He is Peace!

In this sermon, Pastor Matt explores how to respond to faith-shaking illnesses, accidents, or deaths. He begins by acknowledging that life runs on two rails: celebrating good things and dealing with difficult realities. The pastor shares personal experiences with health issues, accidents, and loss to illustrate his points. The main focus is on four key responses: 1. Turn immediately to God: Pastor Matt emphasizes the importance of talking directly to God rather than about Him. He discusses various names of God that reveal His nature and ability to help, such as Jehovah Shalom (the Lord is peace) and Jehovah Rafa (the Lord who heals). 2. Admit when we need support from others: The pastor reminds us that God created us for relationships and that we sometimes need others to help bear our burdens (Galatians 6). 3. Give ourselves permission to mourn: He acknowledges that grief is a natural response to loss and that it's important to work through it with God and community support. 4. View our circumstances as opportunities to share Jesus: Pastor Matt encourages seeing difficult situations as chances to demonstrate faith and share Christ with others. Throughout the sermon, he reinforces the message that God is close to the brokenhearted and rescues those whose spirits are crushed (Psalm 34:18).

WORD EXPLOSION| 2025 Edition | SESSION-4|ENLIGHTENED LIVING|CHIMDI & FUNKE OHAHUNA Join hosts Chimdi and Funke Ohahuna in this compelling episode of the GRACELIFECOMI podcast, as they embark on an intense and expository study of the Book of John. In this episode titled “Illumination of the Living: Understanding John 1:9,” they delve deep into the transformative power of Jesus Christ, exploring how His enlightenment leads humanity from the realm of the dead to the vibrant, living spiritual existence He offers. Throughout this enlightening discussion, Chimdi and Funke examine John 1:9, emphasizing the significance of Christ as the light that illuminates our understanding of God the Father. They reinforce the profound truth that living a life reflective of Christ is not a privilege reserved for a select few but is freely available to all who genuinely believe in Him. Drawing from powerful Scripture passages, such as Hebrews 11:6 and Genesis 1:1, they discuss the necessity of both knowing and understanding God and articulate how true revelation paves the way to a genuine relationship with the Creator. Listeners will uncover the concept that knowing God is both remarkably accessible and yet requires an earnest desire to deepen that knowledge. Through the lens of transformative biblical examples, including Abraham's declaration of Jehovah Jireh and Gideon's altar to Jehovah Shalom, Chimdi and Funke reveal how God has consistently sought to engage with mankind, offering profound insights throughout history that beckon us to a closer relationship with Him. With insights from various translations of Scripture, this episode also highlights the importance of progressive revelation (2 Corinthians 3:18) and how our quest for deeper knowledge of God enriches our faith. Expect to explore the awe-inspiring glory that God manifests through Christ, as articulated in John 14:6 and other key texts. Whether you're seeking to deepen your understanding of the spiritual realm or looking for ways to cultivate a living relationship with God, this episode promises to equip you with the tools needed to embrace the life Christ offers. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that not only informs but inspires you to live the enlightened life in Christ. Don't miss this enlightening exploration—listen now and join the journey of discovering the Living light! Grace to you! Jesus is Lord.

Frantic. Distracted. Overwhelmed. Worried. These are likely to be pretty good adjectives to describe your life. What would your life look like if the peace of God rushed in? How would your demeanor change?

Frantic. Distracted. Overwhelmed. Worried. These are likely to be pretty good adjectives to describe your life. What would your life look like if the peace of God rushed in? How would your demeanor change?

Message from Elder Ronnie Loudermilk on April 27, 2025

Where is God when bad stuff happens? That's a question so many of us have asked ourselves when nothing's gone right, when someone has died, or when we've suffered a broken relationship. Jehovah Shalom means "the God of peace," and it describes the perfect balance in God's nature and the tranquility He can bring us. In this message, Jill teaches on how we can know God as our Jehovah Shalom, so we can know how to experience His peace in the midst of life's chaos. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1141/29

If you want to learn more about Bethel Cleveland and how to get involved, please visit our website at bethelcleveland.com.

Join Marilyn, Sarah, and Isabell Bowling as they discuss two of the names of God. You will learn about Jehovah Shalom, The Lord My Peace and Wholeness and Jehovah Rophe, The Lord My Health. Learn how you can obtain peace and wholeness in your life.

Join Marilyn, Sarah, and Isabell Bowling as they discuss two of the names of God. You will learn about Jehovah Shalom, The Lord My Peace and Wholeness and Jehovah Rophe, The Lord My Health. Learn how you can obtain peace and wholeness in your life.

OPEN HEAVENSMATALA LE LAGI MO LE ASO TOFI 20 FEPUARI  2025(tusia e Pastor EA Adeboye) Manatu Autu: Ieova Saloma (Jehovah Shalom) Tauloto -Tusi Paia–Ioane 14:27 ”Ou te tu‘uina atu ‘iā te ‘outou le manuia; o lo‘u manuia ‘ou te avatu ai ‘iā te ‘outou; ‘ou te lē avatu ‘iā te ‘outou fa‘apei ‘ona avatu e le lalolagi. ‘Aua le atuatuvale o ‘outou loto, ‘aua fo‘i tou te matata‘u.”Faitauga – Tusi Paia – Mareko 4:35-41Sa iai sa'u uo e mauoloa lava e nofo I Ausetalia. E o'o atu i le taimi ua lata ona maliu, e faitau piliona ana tupe I faletupe. Na auina atu a'u e le Alii e lauga ia te ia, ae fai mai ia te a'u, o soo se taimi e moeiini ai ona mata o le a moe, e vaai atu ua latou faatasi ma tagata oti. O lea, e fefe e moe. E ui e mauoloa, ae leai sona filemu. O soo se tagata e lei tuuina atu lona ola ia Iesu, e lē mafai ona ia maua le filemu. A lafoai ola o tagata ia Iesu Keriso, e latou te maua le filemu I totonu o i latou. O se tulaga lea e ta'atele I tagata ua ia Keriso. Afai e lafoai lou ola i le Atua, e te silafia ai, sa e tauaveina se avega mamafa i lou loto mo se taimi umi.  E aveesea e Ieova Saloma lena avega mamafa ae suia I lona filemu. O loo faamatalaina e Iesu I le Mataio 11:28 e faapea:“Ia ‘outou ō mai ‘iā te a‘u, o ‘outou uma o ē tigāina ma mafatia i avega, o a‘u fo‘i e mālōlō ai ‘outou.”‭‭O le a se mea o e atuatuvale ai? Na o lou lafoai lava ia Ieova Saloma, ona e maua lea o le filemu e pei o se vaitafe. E finagalo le Atua e foai atu ia te oe le filemu mai soo se vaega o e tigaina ai, peitai e tatau ona e lafoai au avega uma ia te ia, e lē mafai ona e tauaveina toatasi. Poo lē a lava mea o loo tutupu ia te oe i lou siomaga,  afai e ia te oe Ieova Saloma, e lē luluina lou tagata. O le filemu o le Atua e fai vaega. O le tele o lou silafia o ia, o le tele foi lea o le filemu e te maua. Fai mai le Salamo 119:165, “Ua tele le filemū o ē naunau i lau tulafono; e leai fo‘i se mea e tausuai ai i latou.”‭‭ O se folafolaga lenei e faapea, afai e te mulimuli I le Atua, e te maua le filemu e tele. I le Isaia 54:13, fai mai le Atua Matautia e na te a'oa'o I lana fanau, ona latou maua ma fiafia lea i le filemu tele. Ina ua fetalai le Atua e faatatau ia Aperaamo i le Kenese 18:19, na ia faapea mai, “Auā ‘ua ‘ou iloa o ia na te poloa‘i atu i ana fānau ma lona ‘āiga pe a mavae atu o ia; latou te tausia le ala o le ALI‘I”. Leitioa maua e Isaako le filemu tele. I le Kenese 22:1-18, ina ua saisai e lona tamā, Isaako ma tuu I luga o le fata faitaulaga e osi ai le taulaga, sa filemu lelei o ia. Na ia maua le filemu tele, aua na faafaileleina ma a'oa'o o ia I ala o le Alii. Le au pele e, e finagalo Ieova Saloma e faateleina le filemu i lou olaga faapea olaga o lau fanau, peitai e faatoa mafai ona ia faia pe afai e te fiafia ma naunau I ona ala ma ana tulafono. O le faateleina o lou naunau ma fiafia I ana poloaiga ma ona ala, o le faateleina foi lena o lou filemu, I le suafa o Iesu, Amene.  

Phil Thompson brings us our Sunday message this week titled Jehovah Shalom. This is the sixth message from our series called ‘The Names of God'.You can follow the message along in the YouVersion bible app at https://bible.com/events/49389585and add your own notes! You can also watch the entire service on: https://bit.ly/SundayService16February25

Wednesday Series

Getting To Know God | Week 6 | Mitchell Dorris--Jehovah-Shalom is derived from two key components: Jehovah (or Yahweh), which is the personal name of God in the Old Testament, and Shalom, which means "peace" in Hebrew. Together, the name Jehovah-Shalom translates to "The Lord is Peace."--Notes

In this sermon from "The Great I AM" series, Pastor Jeff Adams introduces us to Jehovah-Shalom, the Lord of Peace. Drawing from the story of Gideon in Judges 6, Pastor Adams reveals how God's peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of God Himself. Discover how Jehovah-Shalom can bring harmony, wholeness, and restoration to every area of life—spiritual, emotional, relational, and missional. This message challenges us to surrender our chaos to God and live as ambassadors of His peace in a broken world. Experience the fullness of God's shalom and find peace that surpasses understanding.

Pastor Tony's message emphasizes the profound revelation of God's character and presence through Jesus Christ, bridging the Old Testament and New Testament. The names of God—El Shaddai ("God Almighty") and Jehovah Shalom ("The Lord Our Peace")—find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, as prophesied in Isaiah 9:6, where He is called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Through the incarnation, God reveals Himself as Emmanuel ("God with us"), fulfilling the prophecy of a Savior who brings peace and salvation. Jesus, whose name means "The Lord Saves," embodies the eternal Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, before whom every knee will bow and every tongue confess His Lordship. This message calls believers to recognize and worship Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises and the ultimate source of peace and salvation.

Pastor Tony's message emphasizes the profound revelation of God's character and presence through Jesus Christ, bridging the Old Testament and New Testament. The names of God—El Shaddai ("God Almighty") and Jehovah Shalom ("The Lord Our Peace")—find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, as prophesied in Isaiah 9:6, where He is called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Through the incarnation, God reveals Himself as Emmanuel ("God with us"), fulfilling the prophecy of a Savior who brings peace and salvation. Jesus, whose name means "The Lord Saves," embodies the eternal Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, before whom every knee will bow and every tongue confess His Lordship. This message calls believers to recognize and worship Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises and the ultimate source of peace and salvation.

Pastor Michael Bang Are you new to Faith Family? We'd love to connect with you! Simply fill out this form: https://faithfamilychurchsd.churchcenter.com/people/forms/209342?source=cca To give online, go to https://faithfamilychurch.com/give To give through texting, simply text the amount to 84321 You can also download the Church Center App to give on your phone and to register for any upcoming events, just select Faith Family Church as your home church when you first open the app iPhone Users Click Here to Download: https://apple.co/2YjPvw7 Android Users Click Here to Download: https://bit.ly/3sX8St7 Sunday, December 22nd, 2024

Deception is simply taking a piece of the truth, and twisting it. That's what makes it so convincing. It sounds right... sort of. Almost. I believe I first read in one of C.S. Lewis's books, probably in several of them, that evil defines itself by the absence of God, just as darkness defines itself as the absence of light. Satan cannot create anything; all he can do is pervert something that God made, and intended for good.   The introduction of Jonathan Cahn's most recent book, "The Dragon Prophecy," puts this extremely well, so I'm going to just quote him. He writes, "If God is good, then how could there be evil? And if God is evil, then how could God be good? But if God did not create evil, then how could evil exist? Or how could God be God?... If evil was created, it would not be a problem, nor would it be evil. Evil is a problem for the very reason that it was not created. It should not exist, because it was not created, and yet it does. The existence of evil defies the created order. It is not of the creation and thus exists in opposition to the created order. Evil exists in defiance of existence... evil is not simply a force, like that of an earthquake, a hurricane, or a fire. All these bring calamity and destruction. But none would constitute true evil. Serial killers are. Why? The hurricane is an impersonal force. It acts without consciousness, will, choice, volition, or intent. But the serial killer commits his acts with conscious intent, will, an volition--and so is evil. And so evil is not an impersonal force--but a personal one, requiring consciousness, volition, will, and intent. Thus in our search for an answer to evil, we are led to personhood... Evil is an inversion--an inversion of truth, of reality, of existence. Evil is, by nature, inverted and, by nature, inverts. It twists, bends, and turns existence in upon itself. It exists as anti-existence. Its being is anti-being, and its nature, anti-nature. It is a negation and therefore seeks to negate, a nullification that exists to nullify. It has no true, ultimate, or absolute existence and therefore acts to bring that which exists into non-existence... Possessing no absolute or true existence of its own, evil is, as well, by nature, parasitic... Evil must use the good. And so though good can exist without evil, evil cannot exist without good. Truth can exist without falsehood, but falsehood cannot exist without truth. Laws can exist without crimes, marriage without adultery, and life without murder. But crimes cannot exist without laws, adultery without marriage, nor murder exist without life. Destruction requires structure, immorality requires morality, and sin requires the holy. The good is primary. Evil is the parasitic inversion of the good. And so the existence of evil inadvertently testifies not against the existence of the good--but for it. It bears witness, unwillingly, to the existence of the good--the existence of God" (9-10). So if evil itself is an inversion of something created to be good, then nearly everything God created for our pleasure and enjoyment can also become evil... but because it contains the seeds of something that was originally good, Satan can also use that kernel of goodness, or truth, to convince us that the twisted version is actually good and true, too... and if we don't know the truth well enough to tell the difference, we'll fall for it.  The Syncretism Trend According to Dr George Barna's research with the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University, the dominant worldview of Americans (92%) now is syncretism (https://www.arizonachristian.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/CRC-Release-AWVI-2-April-23-2024.pdf): that is, an amalgamation of disparate and contradictory beliefs, pulled from multiple religious or philosophical ideologies, according to an individual's personal inclinations and emotions. Syncretism is therefore not a single worldview, but a mishmash of beliefs--hence the common phrase, "your truth" and "my truth." The implication is that these can be mutually exclusive, without any logical contradiction. This strategy of Satan's is nothing new. He is a liar and the father of lies by nature (John 8:44). He sticks with this approach because it works.  Syncretism in the Old Testament Syncretism has  been around since the days of the Old Testament, and was the main reason why the Israelites couldn't seem to stay on the "blessing" side of God's covenant (Deuteronomy 28). Literally the first of the Ten Commandments was "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Ex 20:3)--and al, the Hebrew word translated "before", also means "by" or "beside." So God wasn't saying they simply had to worship Him the most, but it was okay if they occasionally sacrificed to Baal or Molech or Asherah--so long as He was the most important. No; they were to have no other gods besides Him. Period. The entire Old Testament history is a cycle of the Israelites' disobedience of this one commandment. The first example after the Ten Commandments were given is the golden calf that Aaron made with the spoils from Egypt while Moses was up on the mountain receiving God's law (Ex 32). These Israelites had spent their entire lives in Egypt, where a pantheon of gods were worshipped (many of whom God specifically humiliated by the plagues chosen to eventually force Pharaoh to let them go). When they made the golden calf, the Israelites declared that this was God--the One who had delivered them from Egypt (Ex 32:4). So they weren't exactly abandoning Yahweh for some other god; rather, they were mixing Him with the gods they had grown up with. Then, the Israelites tended to mix worship of Yahweh with worship of the gods of neighboring nations, even before they ever got to the Promised Land. Israel's enemies feared God, and one of them (King Balak of Moab) sent for Balaam, a local seer, to curse Israel (Numbers 22-24). God wouldn't allow Balaam to curse Israel, but Balaam wanted Balak's money... so instead, he told Balak how to get the Israelites to curse themselves, by placing themselves on the "cursing" side of God's covenant (Deuteronomy 28). Numbers 25 shows the result: the Moabite harlots used sex to entice the men of Israel into idolatry. The issue in this case wasn't so much the sex, as it was that sex was used in worship of false gods.  The cycle repeats throughout the Old Testament: Israel falls into idolatry, they fall under the 'cursing' side of God's covenant as a result (bringing themselves out from under His protection, and subject to Satan's machinations), they get oppressed by their enemies, they cry out to God, and God delivers them. They renew their vows to and worship of the One True God in varying degrees, but then they forget again, fall into idolatry, and the cycle repeats. God had laid out very clearly that they would be blessed if they followed His laws, and cursed if they didn't (Deut 28), and the very first commandment was no gods before Him. It was the first for a reason: God knows that we were made to worship something, and we treasure what we worship. "Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" (Matt 6:21), and our hearts guide the course of our lives (Prov 4:23).  Eventually Israel split into two kingdoms (Northern and Southern, or Israel and Judah) over this very issue. Most of the subsequent kings of both nations perpetuated idolatry, though a few tried to purge the nation of idolatry to varying degrees, and enjoyed the 'blessing' side of the covenant for a time as a result (Deut 28). But God sent prophet after prophet to the Northern and Southern nations (writers of most of the major and minor prophetic books of the Old Testament), warning them of impending destruction if they did not repent of their idolatry. They ignored the warning, and eventually both nations were taken into captivity because of their idolatry: Israel to Assyria and Judah to Babylon. (Though of course, God was not done with Israel, and His promises to them still stand--Ezekiel 37 prophesied their restoration to their own land as a resurrection of dry bones, which miraculously took place on May 14, 1948. And the nation of Israel takes center stage throughout most of the book of Revelation, from chapter 5 on.)  Syncretism in the New Testament  Syncretism was around during the time of the early church, too, particularly in Paul's ministry. God sent him as the apostle to the Gentiles, who practiced varying forms of pagan beliefs already. They attempted to mix Jesus with these beliefs, until Paul's preaching convicted them to follow Jesus only, burning their books of magic arts and getting rid of their idols of Greek and Roman gods (Acts 19:11-20--which turned into a big riot in the city, v 21-41). Paul described the end times as being a time of "unrighteous deception among those who perish" (2 Thess 2:10), so we can expect that as we approach that day, this will only increase. Jesus told us that in the last days, "if possible, even the elect" would be deceived (Matt 24:24). The Greek work for deception in these verses is planao, and it means "to lead away from the truth, to lead into error." This inherently means that there is such a thing as truth. If you believe something contradictory to that truth, that is deception. We're living in an age that largely borrows from postmodernism as part of the syncretic worldview. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, "Postmodernists deny that there are aspects of reality that are objective; that there are statements about reality that are objectively true or false; that it is possible to have knowledge of such statements (objective knowledge); that it is possible for human beings to know some things with certainty; and that there are objective, or absolute, moral values." Holders of this worldview are therefore confused about even observable or mathematical truths, let alone those that are not observable (such as whether or not there is a God, and if there is, how many, and which one, how do we get to Him, etc). So before we even approach the topic of how to avoid being deceived, we have to establish that there is such a thing as objective truth. If there isn't, then there is no such thing as deception, either, since deception derives its definition from truth (just as darkness derives its definition from light, by the absence of it). What Is Truth (i.e. Is There Such A Thing As Objective Reality?) The best argument I've heard on the topic of whether or not there is an objective reality comes from Dr Jason Lisle's "The Ultimate Proof of Creation" (which is a book, but here is his lecture on the argument https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQ_UxcV-xcM). While there is an abundance of apologetic evidence for the scientific and historical accuracy of scripture (here's the first in an apologetics series I did on the subject, https://www.drlaurendeville.com/anthropic-fine-tuning/), Lisle points out that none of these arguments can be definitive, because someone who holds a different worldview can simply invoke a "rescuing device" to explain away any evidence that seems to contradict his own position. We all do this, and it's not necessarily a bad thing--for example, if someone points out an apparent contradiction in scripture, my first reaction isn't, "Oh, I guess the Bible is wrong!" Rather, I assume there's additional information I don't happen to know about yet, which resolves the apparent contradiction, and then I go look for it. Even if I can't find it at the time, I am still certain it exists, and someone will find it eventually. That's a rescuing device, to preserve an otherwise deeply held worldview without logical contradiction. The real key to establishing which worldview is correct lies in that last statement: "without logical contradiction." There are laws that govern the way the world and the universe works--laws that we all have to believe in and abide by in order to know anything at all. C.S. Lewis expounded on this concept in "Mere Christianity" (https://www.authorcagray.com/posts/mere-christianity/) with respect to morality, in particular--the idea that we all know that there are universal laws of decency and conduct, and we further know that we don't live up to them. But, that being the case, who made those laws? Where did they come from? He argues that their very existence necessitates a lawgiver. Lisle takes this argument further--the existence of non-moral rules that govern how the material world works, such as the laws of logic, and principles of math and science, are the presuppositions upon which all knowledge is based. Everyone has to abide by these, no matter what their worldview is, or it would be impossible to know anything at all. But who made those rules? Where did they come from? Why does math work? Why do we all assume the laws of logic in order to have a coherent conversation? This, too, necessitates a creator. Many who abide by laws of math, science, and logic (and morality, for that matter) don't happen to have a theistic worldview, but that in and of itself is a logical inconsistency; they can't account for those rules in their worldviews at all. They have to borrow from the theistic worldview in order to make any of their other arguments.  This is the very place where postmodernism diverges, though. If there is no objective reality, then knowledge of any kind doesn't exist. Most of those who hold this worldview at least believe in morality of some kind. Lewis's argument might be most relevant here--you'll never get someone persuaded by postmodernism and religious syncretism to argue that murder, or genocide, or racism are fine, for example. They know these are wrong because they "feel" them to be wrong--and they're not just wrong for them, they're wrong for everyone. Now we have at least one absolute... which necessitates a lawgiver not only for morality, but also for at least one logical law: that of non-contradiction. This already establishes the existence of an objective reality. If there is an objective reality, then necessarily, some statements about it must be true while others must be false. The world is round and not flat, for example. If a world exists at all, both things cannot be true about it at the same time and in the same way, simultaneously--that would be a logical contradiction. Which Objective Reality Is It? (Can Anybody Know?) If some objective reality does in fact exist, how do we know which one it is? How do we know that our senses are reliable, first of all, and that we're not living in a simulation a la "The Matrix," for instance--one in which the laws of morality, logic, math, and science are simply foundational to the code? This argument goes back to Descartes, who concluded that at the very least, he must exist after some fashion, because his consciousness told him he must. C.S. Lewis in "Mere Christianity" used a similar line of reasoning, arguing that if there were a deeper reality, one that created this reality, we couldn't possibly find out anything about it through our five senses. Of course we couldn't; those senses are of the physical world, and can thus only give us information about the physical world. Our consciousness, however, has no identifiable physical reality. (To this day, science cannot explain what consciousness actually is - https://www.drlaurendeville.com/electromagnetism-vital-force/.) So Lewis argues that, if there were anything knowable about the world beyond our own, the only place where we might possibly expect to find clues about it would be in our own consciousness. And there, in fact, we do find such clues: specifically, we all have a sense of right and wrong. While we might quibble about the details therein--someone might say that under such and such a condition, killing someone is not murder, for example--no one will seriously argue that murder is morally fine. One might have different rules surrounding the morals of sex, but nobody is going to say you can just have any person you like anytime you like. This establishes several things, according to his argument: the existence of a moral law outside of our reality, of how we ought to behave (even though we know we don't, or at least not always, and certainly not perfectly), which necessitates the implied existence of a law-giver. The very fact that we do not keep the law (even though we know we should) is the whole point of the law of the Old Testament, too (Romans 7)--but even those who didn't know the Old Testament were aware of the moral law to this extent, so that no one is without excuse (Romans 1:18-2:16). Once we know that there is a moral law, and that we're incapable of keeping it on our own, that narrows down the possible religions considerably. We must choose one that hinges on the concept of grace, not works. There is literally only one of those. (More on that in this podcast: https://www.drlaurendeville.com/relational-apologetics/). That's why we call Christianity the gospel, which means good news: the good news is that, while you can't make yourself righteous no matter how hard you try, you don't have to make yourself righteous because Jesus did it for you. All you have to do is accept what He did on your behalf. Once you've gotten to this place, now all the scientific apologetics (start here: https://www.drlaurendeville.com/anthropic-fine-tuning/) can fall into their proper place: as corroborating evidence for the Bible. But the Bible has to be philosophically established as authoritative first. Once we've established that the Bible is truth (John 17:17, Psa 25:5, Psa 91:4, Psa 96:13, 100:5, 117:2, 119:142, 151, 160; 138:2, Prov 3:3, Col 1:5), we've got to learn what it says--well enough that Satan can't take it out of context and feed it back to us, or add a tiny bit to it to change the meaning. That's exactly how he works, though. He even tried that with Jesus (Luke 4:1-13). Fortunately Jesus was the Word made flesh (John 1:14), so He didn't fall for it... but the less we actually know the scripture, the more vulnerable we'll be to this strategy. Knowing the Truth Well Jesus warned us that as the last days approach, Satan will double down on this strategy: that false prophets will rise up and deceive many (Matt 24:11), claiming to be Jesus returned (Mark 13:6), some with signs and wonders. At the same time, Revelation suggests that in the last days, the church will become apathetic, so prosperous materially that we will be unaware of our spiritual emptiness (Rev 3:14-22). (This sounds a lot like the seeds choked by thorns in Jesus' parable of the sower: the seed is choked by "the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches, and he becomes unfruitful", Matt 13:22). Peter tells us that "scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, and saying, 'Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.'" (2 Peter 3:3-4). Paul tells us that the last days will be accompanied by a great "falling away" (2 Thess 2:3). Deception comes in many forms, but one thing they all have in common is that they act almost like a vaccine against the truth. There's just enough truth to them, mixed with a lot of untruth, that it's hard to tease apart the good from the bad. In that way, they can deceive "even the elect, if possible" (Matt 24:24, Mark 13:22). We protect against this, in a nutshell, by knowing the truth really, really well. This is the way bankers are trained to recognize counterfeit money: they don't study every possible counterfeit (there will always be a new one). Rather, they learn what the real thing looks like so well that they'll know when something seems off, even if they can't articulate what it is. In the same way, we're to renew our minds with the Word (Romans 12:2); that's how we will recognize truth from lies. Otherwise, it's all too easy for Satan to take a sliver of truth, mix it with a lie, and so deceive us. An Old Testament example of this is found in 2 Kings 18. The back story: in Numbers 21:6-9, the people had sinned, had come out from under the protection of God's covenant, and were dying from bites from poisonous snakes. God commanded Moses to make a bronze serpent on a pole, and told the people that if they would only look at the serpent, they would be healed. We know with hindsight that this was a type and shadow of Jesus, who was made sin for us, and became our substitutionary sacrifice ("by His stripes, we are healed," Isaiah 53:5). But the Jews didn't realize that; all they knew was that God ordained healing through looking at the pole, so the pole became a symbol of deliverance. But over the centuries, they made looking at the pole into a formula: the shadow without the substance of Jesus behind it. It became an idol, which they called Nehushtan. Back to 2 Kings 18, centuries later: verse 4 tells us that King Hezekiah had torn down the high places and broke Nehushtan in pieces. Later in the chapter, Judah is threatened with destruction by a messenger from the King of Assyria, Rabshakeh. This would have been especially terrifying, since Israel (by this point they has become two nations, Israel and Judah) had already been carried into captivity by Assyria, in punishment for the fact that the people kept falling into idolatry and had forsaken God. So when Rabshakeh threatened the people with destruction, he said, "You broke down God's symbols of worship! Why would He come through for you?" (2 Kings 18:22). The people of Judah had to know God and His word well enough to know that what Hezekiah did was actually right in God's eyes (2 Kings 18:5-7). God had originally ordained the serpent on the pole, yes, but the people had made it into an idol, which broke the first of the Ten Commandments. Hezekiah's actions had placed the Jews on the right side of God's covenant (Deut 28), so they, unlike their sister nation of Israel, could trust that God would come through for them. But if the people had not understood all the back story, they might easily have believed Rabshakeh's taunts. They could have lost faith that God would come through for them, convinced that they would go the way of Israel before them, and turned against Hezekiah, thinking he'd brought them out from under God's protection. This is how the enemy works. The serpent is subtle and cunning (Gen 3:1, 2 Cor 11:3-4). Satan tried to deceive Jesus not even by misquoting scripture, just by quoting it out of context (Matt 4:6). This happens to us today all the time. One common example is the teaching that God causes or (directly) allows sickness in order to discipline us, or to teach us something, or for the "greater good". This sounds so spiritual, and a host of out of context scriptures even seem to back it up--yet Deut 28 makes it clear that sickness is always considered a curse. Jesus became a curse for us and redeemed us from the curse (Gal 3:13-14), and even before that, He healed all who came to Him (Matt 15:30, Matt 4:23-24, Matt 8:16, Matt 9:35, Matt 10:1, Matt 12:15, Matt 15:30, Luke 4:40, Luke 10:9). Jesus He was a perfect representation of the Father (John 5:19, 5:30, 8:28, 12:49). So this cannot be right. He may take what the enemy meant for evil and turn it for good (Gen 50:20), but that doesn't mean He caused the evil in the first place. Not even close. (For more on this, see https://www.drlaurendeville.com/why-bad-things-happen-from-a-biblical-perspective/). Truth is the foundation of the spiritual armor (Eph 6:14)--it must go on first, before anything else. The Bible can testify to us that not only is the Word truth, but God is the God of truth (Isa 65:16), that Jesus is the truth (John 14:6). Only knowing the truth will make us free (John 8:32). If we focus on knowing the truth, we will recognize deception. It's important to also rely upon the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth (John 14:17, 15:26, 16:13, 1 John 5:6), to guide us, rather than on our own understanding (Prov 3:5-6), or the wisdom of the world (1 Cor 1:20-2:7), or any other spirit besides the Holy Spirit. The world is confused about what truth is (John 18:37-38) because they don't hear His voice--but we do. This shouldn't be a problem for us.  Cross-Reference What You Hear Along those lines, just because we hear a doctrine preached from the pulpit doesn't mean it's so. It's our responsibility to be like the Bereans in Acts 17--when Paul and Silas preached the word to them there, Luke writes of them, "These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. Therefore many of them believed" (Acts 17:11). They didn't just take Paul and Silas's word for it; they went straight to the source text to confirm it. Paul later wrote to the Galatians, "even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed" (Gal 1:8-9). He repeats himself, because this is so important. Forget him--even if an angel preaches it, let him be accursed! We are not to blindly follow any person simply because of his or her authority. (We're to respect authority of all kinds, Romans 13:1-7--that's a different issue. But when what someone in authority says comes in conflict with God's word, we obviously go with God's word, Acts 4:19). There are plenty of warnings about false teachers in scripture (though one important note here--there's a difference between a false teacher, and a good person doing his or her best who is simply flawed. None of us is going to get everything right. This is the reason why James says that not many should become teachers, as they will "receive a stricter judgment. For we all stumble in many things," James 3:1-2.)  A false teacher, though, is one who will distort the truth (Acts 20:29-30, 2 Peter 3:16), by mixing it with myths/fables (Titus 1:14) or "merely human commands" (Matthew 16:1-12) or the traditions of men (such as forbidding to marry, abstaining from certain foods, 1 Tim 4:3), according to the principles of the world (Col 2:4-8). They will pretend to be godly or moral, though (2 Cor 11:13-15, 2 Tim 6:5)--so we must use discernment. There are a few criteria we're given to distinguish a false teacher from just a flawed human being, in process like the rest of us: Anyone who denies that Jesus is the Christ is a false teacher (1 John 2:22-23, 4:2-3) Some may lie intentionally for their own gain (Deut 18:20, Ezekiel 13:9, Jer 14:14, Jer 23:16, Titus 1:10-11) or in hypocrisy (1 Tim 4:2-5), using "godliness" as a means of their own selfish gain. Others may be so blind that they truly believe they are doing God a favor in persecuting His true followers (John 16:2). Romans 16:18: Paul said in this verse that these individuals use good words and fair speeches and deceive the hearts of the simple. This means that they flatter people (2 Timothy 4:3) and appeal to the same selfish desires that they themselves have, to draw people after themselves (Acts 20:30). We can't judge another person's motives (Matthew 7:1-3), but we can, and should, judge the fruit of their lives and ministries (Matthew 7:15-20, 1 John 3:7-9). There are many who claim to be believers but aren't (Matthew 7:21-23) and they'll be among us until the end of the age, when God will finally separate them out (Matthew 13:24-30). Truth, "Signs," and Our Emotions We are the gatekeepers of our hearts (Prov 4:23), and have to guard its boundaries, careful of what we allow in. I always thought the parable of wheat and tares (Matthew 13:24-30) only referred to evil people sown amongst the good people of the church. But what if it also means good and bad ideas from good and bad spirits within a given individual-- in other words, we can bear good fruit and bad fruit from different 'trees' even within our own hearts? This might be why Jesus could tell Peter "get behind me Satan" (Matt 16:23) and James and John, "you don't know what spirit you are of" (Luke 9:55), but the men themselves were still His. This also probably goes along with the Parable of the Sower (Matt 13:3-15)... the 'tares' we allow into our own hearts are part of what can choke the word and render it unfruitful. Truth of course must correspond to an accurate description of reality (Gen 42:16)--which should negate any postmodernist philosophy, or syncretism, blending contradictory descriptions of reality. Once we know the truth, we are to continue in what we were taught (Col 2:6-7, 1 John 2:24), not mix a little Christianity with a little of some other contrary message. Paul rails against this practice in many of his letters. In 2 Cor 11:3-4, Paul is angry that the Corinthians' minds may be corrupted so that they receive the one preaching a different Jesus or gospel from the one he preached. In Galatians 1:6-9, as mentioned earlier, the Galatians are falling prey to a perverted gospel, and Paul curses those who preach such a gospel. In Eph 4:14, he writes that only "children" in Christ are tossed about by every wind and wave of doctrine, taken in by trickery and craftiness and deceit. We're supposed to guard against not just what we hear from other humans, but to test what the spirits say too--hence Paul's angel comment (Gal 1:8-9). John also tells us, "do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God" (1 John 4:1). In a lot of denominational churches that don't believe in the supernatural gifts of the spirit (1 Cor 12), this may not come up much. But in those that do, or for individuals who might ascribe to varieties of syncretism (believing in "signs from the universe" if they seem especially coincidental, perhaps), this will become important. Just because a prophet seems to be speaking from a supernatural source doesn't mean what they're saying is from God. It might be, but we have to test it. Just because an idea out of left field pops into our minds doesn't mean it was the Holy Spirit who put it there. Just because a black crow perches on a tree doesn't mean it's an omen foreshadowing our future. Just because we see the same state license plate on every car doesn't mean God is telling us to move there, etc. Solomon writes, “A simple man believes anything, but a prudent man gives thought to his steps” (Prov 14:15). Elsewhere "simple" is used as a synonym for "fool" (Prov 7:7, 8:5, 9:13). We have to remember that the physical world is a battleground. Until the earth lease is up, Satan is still technically the god of this world (2 Cor 4:4). So God can send us signs in the physical realm, yes--but so can Satan. God can whisper thoughts to our minds--but so can Satan (in fact, this is his primary tactic, 2 Cor 10:3-6). Peter writes that the scriptures are a "more sure word of prophecy" even than hearing an audible voice from heaven (2 Peter 1:19-21), probably for this exact reason: anything using the physical realm has the potential to be counterfeited. That doesn't mean God can't use physical means to communicate with us, but it's clear that the primary means He uses for His own are the scriptures, and the Holy Spirit (John 14:17, 26), who also often speaks to us by bringing the scriptures we know to our remembrance. He also will speak through the prophets (1 Cor 12:1-11), dreams and visions (Acts 2:17-18), but we have to check all of this against the Word. Scripture will divide between soul and spirit (what originates with us vs Him, Hebrews 4:12), as well as what might originate with a malevolent spirit sent to lead us astray. David tells us it's the scriptures that make the simple wise: "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple" (Psalm 19:7). What if an idea comes to us as an idea, a dream, a vision, a prophecy, or a "synchronicity" moment that seems supernatural, and it's something that isn't addressed in scripture at all, though? How do we know if it's from God, from us, or from the enemy then? The first thing to check there is whether or not the message is consistent with God's character. Jesus said we can ask anything in His name and He will give it to us (John 14:14). What's in God's name (https://www.drlaurendeville.com/names-of-lord-psalm-9-9-10-meditation/)? He is Jehovah Nissi (the Lord my Banner), Jehovah-Raah (the Lord my Shepherd), Jehovah Rapha (the Lord that Heals), Jehovah Shammah (the Lord is There), Jehovah Tsidkenu (the Lord our Righteousness), Jehovah Mekoddishkem (the Lord who Sanctifies You), Jehovah Jireh (the Lord who Provides), Jehovah Shalom (the Lord is Peace), Jehovah Sabaoth (the Lord of Hosts).  The next thing to check is the fruit that message produces (Gal 5:19-23, Romans 8:6-8). God won't lead us into anything producing negative fruit--if the fruit is bad, it's from the flesh or the enemy, and not the Spirit. If it passes those tests, though, then as we continue to pray about the message (dream, vision, prophecy, idea, etc) then it's also biblical for us to ask for additional confirmations of the message--Paul says in 2 Cor 13:1 that every word should be established by two or three witnesses. If the message is from God, He'll make sure you know it. His Spirit guides us into all truth (John 16:13). And as you continue to seek Him and pray about it, peace (a fruit of the Spirit) should grow, confirming that the message comes from God (Col 3:15). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Join Marilyn, and Sarah and Isabell Bowling as they discuss two of the names of God. You will learn about Jehovah Shalom, The Lord My Peace and Wholeness and Jehovah Rophe, The Lord My Health. Learn how you can obtain peace and wholeness in your life.

Speaker: Josh Rogers, Worship Arts Pastor Today marks the conclusion of the "Names of God" series, and we're reflecting on how these names have impacted our faith over the past ten weeks. The series has deepened our understanding of God's character, helping us connect more personally with His attributes such as Jehovah Jireh (our provider), Jehovah Rohi (our shepherd), and Jehovah Shalom (our peace). Many have found that these names have shaped their prayer life and perspective, especially during challenging seasons. One worship team member shared how, during a season of pruning, they have found comfort in God's names like El Shaddai (God Almighty) and Jehovah Shalom, trusting in His goodness despite difficult circumstances. This series has encouraged us to grow and be transformed by the truth of who God is. As we reflect on what we've learned, we remember that God's revealed names are not separate roles He plays, but facets of His unchanging nature. These names, from Yahweh (I Am) to Jehovah, show us that God is always fully who He is, even if different aspects of Him are revealed in different seasons. This brings us to the final name of the series, Jehovah Nissi—"The Lord is my Banner." Today, we'll explore this name through the story in Exodus 17, where God's provision and protection are displayed.

Speaker: Dr. Bryan O'Neal, Biblical Foundation Teacher

We study Ps 23 thru the eyes of our personal covenant relationship with the LORD = YEHOVAH, God's covenant Name. 8 compound Covenant Names cover all blessings of the New Covenant. The 1st is: “The LORD is my SHEPHERD” (v1), Yehovah Rohi. Jesus said: “I AM the good SHEPHERD” of Ps 23 (Jn 10:11,14), speaking of His loving care for us. I AM = YEHOVAH, so His I AM claims correspond to the YEHOVAH Names. As our risen Shepherd, as Ps 23 says, He leads us into our full inheritance, described by these Names. True shepherding means a devoted personal relationship between shepherd & sheep. He lives in personal relationship with his sheep & knows them all by name; they know his voice & follow him. This is seen in the word MY: ‘The Lord is MY Shepherd.' He cares for me, watches over, leads, feeds & preserves me. His constant presence protects them from danger. David, an experienced shepherd, knew of what he talked, a man (who sought) after God's own heart to know Him (1Sam 13:14, Acts 13:22) and God revealed His heart of love to Him, the heart of a shepherd, that just as he cared for his sheep, protecting, providing, leading & rescuing them, so that's how God is toward His people. As he was devoted to his sheep, so God is fully committed to us, laying down His life for us. He found comfort & security in the covenant-keeping God caring for him, as a devoted shepherd for his sheep. v1b: “I shall not want” = Yehovah Yireh, the LORD my PROVIDER (seeing ahead & providing for us by His Sacrifice, Gen 22;14). He said: “I AM the BREAD of LIFE” (Jn 6:35). By the provision of Himself, in His death & resurrection He meets all our needs (Ro 8:32, 5000). “I'll not want” confesses covenant confidence in Him. v2: “He makes me to lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside the still waters” = Yehovah Shalom, the Lord my Peace (Jud 6:24). He said: “I AM the VINE” (Jn 15:1, Eph 2:14). v3: “He restores my soul” = Yehovah Rophe, the Lord my Healer (Ex 15:26). He said: “I AM the Resurrection & Life” (Jn 11:26). v3b: “He leads me in the paths of RIGHTEOUSNESS for His Name's sake” = Yehovah Tsidkenu, the Lord my Righteousness (Jer 23:6, 33:16). He said: “I AM the DOOR” into God's Presence & Kingdom (Jn 10:7,9). v4: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for YOU are WITH ME Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me” = Yehovah Shammah, the LORD is PRESENT (Ezek 48:35). He said: “I AM the LIGHT” (Jn 8:12, 9:5). As sheep on their own are helpless, lost & defenceless, so without our Shepherd we'd be destroyed. Ps 23 is most beloved for believers, for it tells us we're never alone, without help or hope. Now the scene changes. The Shepherd is now a King giving a bountiful Banquet. v5: “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies” = Yehovah Nissi, the Lord my Banner of Victory (Ex 17:15). The risen Christ claims this (Rev 1:18). A good host gave protection & provision for his guests. To prepare (set in order) suggests foresight & care, 'before me' means personal provision. He knows all our needs & prepared His perfect provision for us of every blessing, in this life (with our enemies present) & eternity. To dine together signified abiding friendship. In context, to sit at table with the Lord & partake of the meal He's prepared is the manifestation of our covenant relationship & close fellowship (Rev 3:20). He shows His love, by preparing an everlasting feast for us in His Presence, under His Banner of Protection, for He won the Victory for us (Song 2:4). A fulfilment of this is Holy Communion. He invites us to come & partake of Himself. Every blessing revealed by Ps 23 & 8 Covenant Names is ours in Christ. He wants us to draw near & receive of His abundance. v5b: “You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over” = Yehovah M'kaddesh, the LORD my Sanctifier (Lev 20:8). He said: “I AM the WAY, TRUTH & LIFE” (Jn 14:6). A host anoints his guest with oil (Lk 7:44-46), representing sanctification & empowerment with His Spirit. ‘My cup runs over' speaks of a generous host, ever filling our cup to overflowing (Eph 5:18), giving us life & joy in His Spirit (Jn 10:10). His abundant provision shows His great love for us, but the main blessing of the Banquet is to be with Him. Ps 23 concludes with a summary of the results of the Shepherd's Ministry to us in this life & eternity, v6: “Surely goodness (grace) & mercy (chesed) shall follow (pursue) me (with vigor) all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the House of the Lord (Heaven) forever.” He's sure of enjoying His Presence all his life, & that He'll lead him thru the valley of death to Heaven, where he'll dwell with Him forever - a key verse to comfort those facing death. Don't follow (covet) blessings, but follow our Shepherd & the blessings will follow. His Ministry as our personal Shepherd continues forever (Rev 7:15-17). Grace & mercy covers all. In grace He gives what we don't deserve & in mercy He doesn't give what we deserve.

Pastor Brian teaches on the names of God in a new series.

So that people experience the passionate love of Jesus. This is the mission of Faith Church, led by Pastor Dan Reeve, in Southern California. Visit us at go2faith.com.

Join Marilyn, Sarah, and Isabell Bowling as they discuss two of the names of God. You will learn about Jehovah Shalom, The Lord My Peace and Wholeness and Jehovah Rophe, The Lord My Health. Learn how you can obtain peace and wholeness in your life.

David Louw teaches from Judges 6 on August 25, 2024.Support the Show.

 Pastor Schuller continues his series on the many names of God.  Today's focus is on Jehovah Shalom, the God of peace.   How do we find real peace when our lives, our families, and our world seems to be so chaotic?   We put on the full armor of God as instructed in the scripture reading from Ephesians 6:10-18Join Robert and Donna Schuller each Sunday at 8am pt.  

in this episode, our host Kyia Mochitani shares about how oftentimes we put God in a box and forget how big he really is.  She shares how some of the decisions we make lead us to a season in the desert. Kyia explains all of the ways in which God is so big! He is Jehovah Rapha, Jehovah Shalom, Jehovah Jireh!!

Can a single name change your life? Imagine discovering a source of comfort, strength, and peace by simply understanding and meditating on the many names of God. Join us as we explore Sylvia Gunter's transformative teachings in this devotional episode. Sylvia, the founder of The Father's Business, guides us through the profound significance of God's names and how each one meets our deepest needs. From experiencing the loving embrace of Abba Father to finding peace in Jehovah Shalom, Sylvia unveils the divine attributes that make God our all-sufficient provider. This episode is a heartening reminder of how God's infinite supply is tailored to our every lack, revealing His ever-present help and unending love.

Our mission is to foster personal and cultural transformation through Love, Creativity, and Justice. We are a diverse community that seeks to live our faith in an authentic way, we long for the undiluted gospel, and for the world to see and know how good God really is.   Listen Here: Spotify: https://expression58.org/spotify Apple Podcasts: https://expression58.org/apple   Follow us: Website: https://www.expression58.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/expression58/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expression58/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Expression58media

Prayer is a powerful and transformative practice that lets us talk to God and connect with him intimately. It is not just a simple conversation but a lifeline that sustains us through every challenge and triumph. Through prayer, we experience our Lord's profound love, guidance, and the unshakable assurance that He loves us. Even when His answers to our prayers take time, God provides what we need in His own way.In this powerful episode of the Revelations Podcast, Reagan invites Laurel Bunker, a dynamic preacher, educator, leader and V.P. of Training and Education at Pulse Evangelism, to talk about the supernatural power of prayer and how it impacts heaven and earth. They discuss in depth what prayer is, why it's important, and how it can change your life by cultivating an intimate relationship with the One True God. Laurel also shares her personal experiences with prayer and how communing with God freed her. Learn about prayer and bring this powerful lifeline that unites you with God into your life.Join us as we delve into the depths of prayer, discovering its ability to empower us against the enemy, break our chains, and draw us closer to the heart of God.Here are three reasons why you should listen to this episode:Deepen your understanding of prayer as a lifeline that sustains us as God's children.Find out how prayer lets you talk to God intimately when you pray with honesty and an open heart.Don't be afraid. Learn how prayer can build up your faith and allow Jesus to pull you free from fear.Become Part of Our Mission! Support The Revelations Podcast:Your support fuels our mission to share transformative messages of hope and faith. Click here to learn how you can contribute and be part of this growing community!ResourcesMore from the Revelations Podcast hosted by Reagan Kramer: Website | Instagram | Apple Podcast | YoutubeMaking Jesus Known (Ft. Evangelist Nick Hall)Listening to the Word of God: How We Can Let God Lead In Our Lives (Ft. Pastor Tom Flaherty)The Voice of God (Ft. Courtnay Suter)Pulse EvangelismConnect with Laurel Bunker: WebsiteBible Verses:Ephesians 4:11Exodus 20Acts 17: 22 - 34John 17Daniel's Prayer: Daniel 9Hannah's Prayer 1 Samuel 2: 2 - 10Esther's Request for Prayer Esther 4: 15-17Romans 8:34Hebrews 7:25Revelations 12:11Isaiah 40Ephesians 6: 10 - 20Acts 9Matthew 24Psalm 51 Psalm 139This Episode is brought to you by Advanced Medicine AlternativesGet back to the active life you love through natural & regenerative musculoskeletal healing: https://www.georgekramermd.com/Episode Highlights[02:42] Laurel's Role at Pulse EvangelismLaurel's new position in training and education at Pulse Evangelism involves building an international evangelism center.The center will train 18 to 30-year-olds in evangelism, prayer, and discipline. It aims to train people to talk to God, share their faith, and evangelize without fear.[04:44] Daughter of the Most High KingLaurel first experienced a rigid relationship with God, driven by fear and duty rather than love. She was taught to fear Him and felt at fault for Christ's suffering and sacrifice.She learned the truth in college. Laurel realized God's love for her and changed her perspective as the daughter of the High King.Your relationship with Christ and how you see yourself in the eyes of God changes your Christian life.Laurel lived in fear and was bound by it. Jesus pulled her free so that she could move in Him and talk to God without fear.Don't simply listen and believe what others say. You also need to examine what you believe and study it. Use the Word of God and the many resources we have today to stand boldly in our faith.[21:11] What Is Prayer and Why Is It An Integral Part of Your Life?Prayer is the heart's posture and soul's surrender in communion with God. We need to focus our hearts and minds on our time and conversation with God.Even if God knows everything, He still wants to hear from you and communicate with love through prayer. [22:46] Laurel: “When we have both our heart and our soul, in communion with God, without fear or shame, we can communicate with the one who loves us and knows us best.” Like in any relationship, communication is important. Talk to God. Maintain your union with Him through communion in prayer.Pray to the One True God and not to any false gods. Don't let idols distract and divide your heart and mind.A lot of people were never taught about prayer. However, it's important to learn about prayer, fasting, and meditating on God's Words to keep you focused on your intimate relationship with God.[30:42] Understanding Prayer in the Word of GodLaurel talks about John 17, the moment when Jesus is preparing to sacrifice Himself to take on our sins. He prays not just for His disciples but also for His future believers.Daniel's prayer, Hannah's prayer, and Esther's prayer show their honesty and their hearts on display as they pray to God. It is this honesty and knowledge that they can go to God for grace and help that is in these prayers.Jesus is constantly interceding and fighting for us. He prays for us, the Holy Spirit is with us, and angels watch over us to protect us.Even when you're too busy or have no words, you can do it anywhere and however short or long. It doesn't have to be perfect.Beyond the power of prayer in strengthening our intimate relationship with God, it also aligns our minds and prepares and protects us. Prayer is a part of our armor.[49:38] Living a Prayer LifeGod listens and recognizes our pain. He might not always act on it how and when we want Him to but it's important to trust Him.Understand God's character and His many names. From El Roi, Jehovah Shalom, and more, these names help you understand the vastness and multifaceted nature of God.We know Jesus from a human point of view. However, we can know Him differently and remember how we're made new through His sacrifice.Coming together in prayer can be powerful. Laurel and Reagan talk about their tabernacle experience where they felt the Holy Spirit come and sit with them.Read the Scripture and the conversations between God and His people. The simple personal prayers based on His Word can be the most powerful.[01:05:30] The Power of Praying Out LoudPraying out loud is a proclamation of faith. It is a way to decree and declare God's truth and authority.With His absolute authority, prayer pushes back the enemy and denies the power of what Satan speaks.As we pray, it's important to believe in God's strength especially when you are weak.Prayer and God's Word can pull you out of negative emotions and situations, just like how Laurel was pulled out of her fear by building her faith through prayer.Don't be afraid, the Lord is with you. Get past the fear and resignation to go and spread the gospel and faith. [01:13:53] Reagan: “Proclaim who Jesus is and that you are covered in the blood of Christ so that the enemy can't touch you. There is power in speaking that out loud that the enemy knows that you are speaking in your authority in shutting the door.”[01:14:17] Why Pray?Prayer is a gift that was given to us, no strings attached; all you have to do is accept it.Know that God responds, He hears, sees, knows, understands, and loves us.In your relationship with God, commune with him. Talk to God and let him know that you love Him. Know too that God loves you.It's worth cultivating your relationship with God so that you can stand before Him and worship Him for what He's done.[01:17:22] Laurel's Answered PrayerGod has always opened a door for Laurel when one closes as she applies for a job.However, that didn't happen for Laurel. Instead, God answered in a different way by providing rest, allowing her to preach, and travel the world. [01:19:03] Laurel: “Answered prayer oftentimes doesn't come in one giant perfected, tied with a bow, answer. Sometimes it comes unrolling something where you get bit by bit.” Stepping into a new season of life for Laurel, her answered prayer was revealed little by little.It is through this time of elongated prayer that she was able to get to know God, talk to God, cultivate an intimate relationship with Him, and learn to forgive and trust.God wants you. He is listening. The first step to communicating with God is to receive Him as your Lord and Saviour.About LaurelLaurel Bunker is a dynamic preacher, educator, and leader with over 30 years of experience in ministry, higher education, and non-profit sectors. Recently, she joined Pulse Evangelism as the Vice President of Training and Education. Laurel's ministry extends nationwide. Her deep love for Jesus and commitment to mentoring others reflect her life's mission to empower and uplift communities.Learn more about Laurel and her work on her website.Enjoyed this Episode?If you did, subscribe and share it with your friends!Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning in, then leave us a review. You can also share this with your friends and family. This episode dives into the importance of prayer in our lives and how it can be our lifeline to faith by letting us talk to God.Have any questions? You can connect with me on Instagram.Thank you for tuning in! For more updates, tune in on Apple Podcasts.