Podcasts about learning god

     Christians are instructed, “do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts, and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness” (Rom 6:12-13a), “flee sexual immorality” (1 Cor 6:18), “he who steals must steal no longer” (Eph 4:28), “let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth” (Eph 4:29), “do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God” (Eph 4:30), “Do not quench the Spirit” (1 Th 5:19), put aside “anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth” (Col 3:8), “abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul” (1 Pet 2:11), “make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler” (1 Pet 4:15), “do not love the world nor the things in the world” (1 John 2:15), and “little children, guard yourselves from idols” (1 John 5:21). These commands would be pointless if it were not possible for Christians to commit all these sins. It is never the will of God that we sin (1 John 2:1), but if we sin, and “there is no man who does not sin” (1 Ki 8:46), it is God's will that we confess our sins (1 John 1:9), accept responsibility for our actions, and get back to learning God's Word (2 Tim 2:15; 1 Pet 2:2; 2 Pet 3:18), living by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38), and pursuing holiness (1 Pet 1:15-16), and righteousness (1 Tim 6:11; 2 Tim 2:22). Consequences for Sin      It is difficult for some to understand, but when Christians sin, we are not in danger of condemnation (Rom 8:1; 35-39), we do not forfeit the free gift of eternal life (John 10:28; Rom 3:24; 6:23), and we do not cease to possess the righteousness of God that was given to us at the moment of faith in Christ (Rom 5:17; Phil 3:9). When Christians sin, we are walking in darkness and have broken fellowship with God (1 John 1:5-6), and stifle the work of the Holy Spirit who dwells within us (Eph 4:30; 1 Th 5:19). If we continue in sin, or leave our sin unconfessed, we are in real danger of divine discipline from God (Psa 32:3-5; Heb 12:6; 1 John 5:16-17; cf. Dan 4:37). Even though David was forgiven for his sin with Bathsheba (2 Sam 12:13), he still faced earthly consequences that impacted him and his family (2 Sam 12:10-14). Serious sin, and ongoing sin, can eventuate in divine discipline to the point of physical death (1 John 5:16; cf., Lev 10:1-2; Acts 5:3-5; 1 Cor 11:30), as well as the loss of eternal rewards (1 Cor 3:10-15; 2 John 1:8). These are serious punishments by the Lord which impact a  believer in time and eternity; however, the sinning saint is not in danger of losing salvation.[1] The Way of Righteousness      As Christians, God calls us to “pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart” (2 Tim 2:22; cf. 1 Tim 6:11), to “present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God” (Rom 6:13b), and to “present your members as slaves to righteousness” (Rom 6:19a). Addressing the Christians at Ephesus, Paul wrote, “you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light, for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth, trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord” (Eph 5:8-10). Peter also wrote, “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness” (1 Pet 2:24a). Righteous living—that's what God desires from us. He wants our thoughts, words, and actions to align with His righteous character and written Word as it applies to us as Christians. But this requires positive volition and a commitment to the Lord (Rom 12:1-2), to learn His Word (2 Tim 3:16-17; 1 Peter 2:2) and live His Word by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38).      As Christians, God has done everything for us to live spiritually successful lives (i.e., giving a new nature, the Holy Spirit, and divine revelation). But God does not force us to live spiritually, as we must choose to live out the new life. And, like Solomon, we are always in danger of being corrupted by others (1 Cor 15:33), by Satan's world-system (1 John 2:15-16), and our fleshly natures within (Rom 13:14; Col 3:9; Gal 5:16-17; 1 John 1:8). To be faithful to the Lord to the end of our days (as God directs), one needs thinking that is properly calibrated according to Scripture (Rom 12:1-2). God has already blessed us with everything we need to live spiritually (Eph 1:3), but it's up to us to lay hold of what He's provided and to advance to spiritual maturity.      The successful Christian life starts with positive volition. Jesus said, “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself” (John 7:17). The word “willing” translates the Greek verb thelō (θέλω), which means “to desire to have or experience something.”[2] To be “willing” to know and do God's will is the starting place for our advance to spiritual maturity. Our next step is to dig into God's Word and learn it. Jeremiah expressed positive volition when he said, “Your words were found and I ate them, and Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart” (Jer 15:16a). A psalmist wrote, “How sweet are Your words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Psa 119:103), and “The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces” (Psa 119:72). Peter wrote, “like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation” (1 Pet 2:2). Learning God's Word serves as the basis for right living (Rom 12:1-2). But once we learn it, we must walk in it, which means applying it to our life, and this by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:6). Ezra is a good example of a believer who learned and lived God's Word, as it is written, “Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the LORD and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel” (Ezra 7:10). This is the proper order. When a Christian has a right will (orthothely), and operates with right thinking (orthodoxy), it establishes the basis for right behavior (orthopraxy). Positive volition, divine viewpoint thinking, and the walk of faith is what the Lord wants.      As God's people, let us constantly learn His Word (Psa 1:2-3; Ezra 7:10; 2 Tim 2:15; 1 Pet 2:2), recalibrate our thinking to align with Scripture (Rom 12:1-2), discipline our minds (2 Cor 10:5), live by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:6), confess our sins as needed (1 John 1:9), be filled with the Spirit (Eph 5:18), walk in the Spirit (Gal 5:16), submit ourselves to the Lord (Jam 4:7), do good (Gal 6:10), serve others (Phil 2:3-4), rejoice always (1 Th 5:16), pray without ceasing (1 Th 5:17), be thankful in everything (1 Th 5:18), maintain fellowship with other Christians (Heb 10:25), share our wealth to promote Christian ministry (1 Tim 6:17-19), and advance to spiritual maturity (Heb 6:1). If we do this, we'll glorify the Lord, bless others, and live righteously as God's expects. Conclusion      In conclusion, we must be clear: eternal life is secured by grace through faith in Christ, not by perseverance in works or moral consistency. Though a true believer may tragically fall into grievous sin—like Solomon, David, or the Corinthian Christians—their eternal security remains anchored in the unchanging promises of God and the finished work of Christ (John 10:28; Rom 8:1). What is at stake is fellowship with God in time, our witness before others, spiritual fruitfulness, eternal rewards, and divine discipline that can range from loving correction to severe consequences (1 Cor 3:15; 11:30-32; Heb 12:6). We do not minimize the seriousness of sin, but neither should we confuse it with a loss of salvation. Instead of living in fear of condemnation, we should be motivated by love, gratitude, and reverence to walk in obedience and grow in grace (2 Pet 3:18). Let us pursue righteousness—not to keep what was never ours to earn—but to honor the One who saved us, and to reflect His character in this fallen world. Steven R. Cook, D.Min, M.Div., B.Sc.     [1] Even when the prodigal son lived in the world (Luke 15:11-13), and though he lived like an unbeliever, he never ceased to be a son (Luke 15:14-16), and when he came to his senses and returned home (Luke 15:17-19), his father recognized him as his son and welcomed him back (Luke 15:20-24). A child of God is always a child of God, even if we fall into worldly living. [2] Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains (New York: United Bible Societies, 1996), 287.

When we fail to recognize the distinction between the law and the gospel, we fail to read the Bible like Christians. So wouldn't it be nice if we had a teaching tool, like a catechism, to help us with this crucial distinction? Thankfully, we do! Pat is joined today by Jay Wipf, author of the newly released Learning God's Two Words: A Brief Catechism on the Law and the Gospel. Jay is also the co-host of the RenewalCast. You can find more from Jay and connect with him at https://lawgospelcatechism.com

In Psalm 71, we have a man in his middle years looking back, looking around, and looking forward. He is musing over some of his life lessons of faith and wisdom, seeking to finish strong. This is a good exercise for all of us… whatever age we are! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1141/29

In Psalm 71, we have a man in his middle years looking back, looking around, and looking forward. He is musing over some of his life lessons of faith and wisdom, seeking to finish strong. This is a good exercise for all of us… whatever age we are! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1141/29

Series: Learning God in the PsalmsService: Sun AMType: SermonSpeaker: Rodney Pitts

Series: Learning God in the PsalmsService: Sun AMType: SermonSpeaker: Rodney Pitts

Learning God is establishing His people IN Righteousness NOW so they will be prepared for the new heavens and the new earth where there will be NOTHING other than Righteousness dwelling therein.

Learning God is establishing His people IN Righteousness NOW so they will be prepared for the new heavens and the new earth where there will be NOTHING other than Righteousness dwelling therein.

     Fallen angels are involved in the affairs of mankind. The person who operates by negative volition aligns himself with Satan and his forces. Negative volition leads to idolatry, and idolatry leads to immorality (Rom 1:18-32), both individually and nationally. The worship of idols is the worship of demons (Lev 17:7; Deut 32:17; 1 Cor 10:19-21). Demons generally led the pagan nations into idolatry, which God's people were not to practice (Deut 18:9-14). However, when God's people mingled with them, they learned their idolatrous practices (1 Ki 11:1-8), and even created their own idols (1 Ki 12:26-33), which eventuated in human sacrifice (2 Ki 17:7-23; Psa 106:35-38; cf. 2 Ki 16:1-4; 21:1-9; Jer 32:30-35; Ezek 16:20-21; 20:31; 23:37). When human rulers turned away from God, He would use evil spirits to discipline them (Judg 9:23; 1 Sam 16:14-15). This resulted in the disciplined person experiencing mental madness and murderous behavior (1 Sam 18:10-12; cf. 1 Sam 19:9-10). God used an evil spirit to bring about the military defeat and death of King Ahab (2 Chron 18:18-22).      Some angels who were once free, are now kept in “eternal bonds under darkness for the judgment of the great day” and appear to have forfeited their freedom altogether due to some unnamed sinful violation (Jude 1:6), perhaps the account described in Genesis 6:1-5. And some very destructive angels (described as metal-like locusts) are now kept in the Abyss—a temporary spiritual prison—and will be released and led by a powerful angel whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon and in Greek Apollyon (Rev 9:1-12). Four unnamed, but very dangerous angels, are said to be bound under the River Euphrates (Rev 9:13-16). These four angels will kill one third of mankind during the Great Tribulation. Other evil spirits will be used to gather world rulers and their armies together for the Battle of Armageddon (Rev 16:13-14; cf. Rev 19:11-21).      As Christians, we face social, political and religious attacks in our day, and there are dark spiritual forces at work driving much of what we see. Scripture is very clear when it says, “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Eph 6:12). These demonic forces are behind every act of terror the world has ever known, and their activity is tireless. Thankfully, God has given us armor and a weapon to protect us, which also serve to aid in the rescue and defense of others who face spiritual attacks (Eph 6:13-18). Satan's Strategies      Christians are always under threat of attack by Satan and his demonic forces and we must “be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil” (Eph 6:11). Our enemy, the devil, is a brilliant commander who has manufactured schemes or strategies he employs against the human race, and God's people in particular. The word strategy translates the Greek noun methodeia (μεθοδεία) which, according to Louw-Nida, refers to “crafty scheming with the intent to deceive.”[1] The same term (methodeia) is used of false teachers who engage “in deceitful scheming” (Eph 4:14), in order to trap immature Christians with false doctrine. Christians can be deceived and neutralized by false teaching, which was Paul's concern for the Christians at Corinth (2 Cor 11:3). MacDonald states, “The devil has various stratagems—discouragement, frustration, confusion, moral failure, and doctrinal error. He knows our weakest point and aims for it. If he cannot disable us by one method, he will try for another.”[2] Satan has many demons and carnally minded people on his side, and he fights dirty. As Christians, we don't go hunting for the devil; rather, we “stand firm” (Eph 6:11) against his attacks when he comes against us.      Knowing Satan's strategies enables us to identify an attack and to defend ourselves by taking up the armor of God. Learning God's Word and living by faith is the key to victory. Wiersbe states, “Everybody in this world lives by faith. The difference between the Christian and the unconverted person is not the fact of faith, but the object of faith. The unsaved person trusts himself and other humans; the Christian trusts God. It is your faith in God that is the secret of victory and ministry.”[3] Dr. Steven R. Cook   [1] Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains (New York: United Bible Societies, 1996), 759. [2] William MacDonald, Believer's Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 1952. [3] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Strategy of Satan: How to Detect and Defeat Him (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 1996), 95.

Fitzkee Brothers- Give you all my love

In Part 2 of this compelling interview, Jeff Younger shares the heart-wrenching and courageous story of his battle to protect his son from forced gender transition. As a father standing firm in his Christian convictions, Jeff exposes the alarming realities of the family court system, the influence of gender ideology in public schools, and the attack on biblical manhood and fatherhood in America.From enduring a brutal boxing match to teach resilience, to confronting medical professionals, schools, and courts, Jeff opens up about the personal cost of standing up for truth. You'll also learn what you can do to get involved, protect children, and reclaim culture through faith and action.

Series: Learning God in the PsalmsService: Sun AMType: SermonSpeaker: Rodney Pitts

Series: Learning God in the PsalmsService: Sun AMType: SermonSpeaker: Rodney Pitts

2:12 Tamara's story and ministry17:09 The attack on women and their body image20:23 The connection to eternal laws24:56 The decision to no longer believe the lies of Satan.32:38 Making changes from a place of love37:58 The process of change and healing43:36 Learning God's individual nutrition plan for you50:10 Trusting your body52:33 The foods God says are good54:47 Mindful livingTamara Roberts lives in Layton, Utah. She has been married for 38 years and is a devoted wife and mother to four children and six beautiful grandchildren. She enjoys hiking, walking, cycling, gardening, (anything in nature really), as well as cooking and creating healthy meals out of just about any recipe, reading a good book, watching oldies and spending time with her family.Tamara currently serves in the Layton temple and have served in several Relief Society callings. This is where her love for helping faithful women started. She has been a lifelong learner of nutrition, mindful living, and gospel study, exploring how to live intentionally as a means to overcome depression and anxiety, as well as an eating disorder, and to align her health practices to her faith in Christ and gospel study.In 2022, Tamara became certified in Mindful Eating and Nutrition, Meditation, CBT therapy for Emotional Eating and started providing consultations for women through her business, Mindful Journey Studio.LLC. She wanted a way to connect women to Christ through Mindful Living and nutrition which she found lacking in the world of mindfulness and meditation.Tamara is the creator of Faithfully Nourished: Christ-Centered Wellness for Women on YouTube, Instagram and Facebook where she produces videos on Tuesdays and Fridays that promote nourishing ourselves body, mind and spirit with Jesus Christ at the center of all we do. She is passionate about empowering women to find healing through nourishing their bodies, minds, and spirits through a Christ-centered approach to overall wellness for women. Latter-day Disciples has recently partnered with One x One! One x One exists to bring hope and healing by breaking the cycles of addiction, resolving ancestral wounds, and restoring hearts burdened by trauma, betrayal, and abuse. Through the transforming power of Jesus Christ, we guide men, women, and couples towards lasting intimacy, wholeness, and freedom -- one by one. Join our upcoming Reclaim 3-day women's retreat April 28th-May 1st! Learn more at onexone.ai. "Consider Yourself as Eve: A Guide to Spiritual Development for Women (and the Men Who Love Them)" is available on Amazon in paperback, hardback, and ebook formats. Get your copy today! Scripture Notes - the PERFECT scripture study companion! Sign up today!

What happens when everything you've built suddenly crumbles? For Lena, the collapse of her successful internet marketing business and the end of her marriage became the catalyst for extraordinary spiritual transformation. Her story reveals how God redirects our paths when we least expect it.From dreaming of Hollywood stardom as a girl in Arctic Norway to becoming a top-producing internet marketer, Lena had achieved what looked like success. Yet beneath the accolades and material comfort, she recognized a spiritual emptiness—her relationship with God had become secondary to her ambitions. When her business unexpectedly collapsed in 2013, everything changed.Today, Lena leads community outreach at her Los Angeles church while traveling to maximum security prisons in Mexico, providing eyeglasses and sharing the gospel with inmates who find profound joy despite their circumstances. Her approach to sharing faith is refreshingly practical—focusing on "seed sowing" rather than pressure, helping people move just one step closer to God through authentic conversation.Perhaps most powerfully, Lena shares the life-altering experience of helping her severely autistic stepson recover from a debilitating swallowing disorder that nearly claimed his life. For nine months, she and her husband quit their jobs to spoon-feed him 12 hours daily, witnessing a miraculous recovery that culminated symbolically on Easter Sunday when he took his first bite of solid food.Through these crucibles, Lena discovered a formula for unshakable joy: Jesus first, Others second, Yourself third. Her upcoming book explores living the abundant Christian life Jesus promised—finding peace, purpose, and strength regardless of external circumstances.Ready to discover your unique spiritual gifts and calling? Visit shelivesabundantly.com for Lena's resources and join her journey toward purposeful Christian living. What unexpected detour might become your divine destination?Let me know what you think of this episode? Support the showSupport the Podcast. https://buymeacoffee.com/dorseyrossSocial Media Links, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dorsey.ross/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DROCKROSS/ My Book Amazon Book Overcomer https://bit.ly/4h7NGIP

Send us a textMartha welcomes Erika to speak about moving from victimhood to victory after her husband unexpectedly left their marriage of 16 years despite her faithful Christian life and service.• Growing up deeply involved in church and developing strong spiritual disciplines• Marrying at 19 and living the "good Christian life" as a pastor's wife and mother• Feeling angry with God when her marriage fell apart despite doing everything "right"• Realizing she had a transactional relationship with God rather than understanding His true character• Finding strength in Isaiah 54 - "your maker is your husband, the Lord Almighty is his name"• Experiencing God's provision through unexpected financial gifts after faithfully tithing• Learning God cares about even small insecurities when He prompted someone to do her hair• Choosing to focus on God's presence and blessings rather than dwelling on difficulties• Understanding that developing "eyes to see and ears to hear" transforms our perspective• Recognizing that God is enough regardless of our circumstancesIf you're curious to hear more or if you like what you've heard, subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to yours or follow our Instagram account, sips from the fountain, or our Facebook page by the same name.

In the prayer outline Jesus gave the disciples, He told us to pray, “your will be done on earth as in heaven.” When God speaks to us through the Bible, we can know what His will is. How do we learn what is His will in matters apart from those covered in the Bible? In Learning God's Will, we look into the Bible to learn how.

Series: N/AService: Sun AMType: SermonSpeaker: Rodney Pitts

Learning God's Way of bearing the Fruits of Righteousness

Learning God's only Way of the fruits of Righteousness

Learning God's only Way of the fruits of Righteousness

Learning God's only path of Faith and Righteousness and that they can never be separated

Learning God's only path of Faith and Righteousness and that they can never be separated

We have a lot going on in our world and personal lives these days. Preaching lately about stress-free leadership and stress-free marriages, my guest this week is a Pastor in East AL and West GA who's giving some raw insight on hearing the voice of God (instead of trying to build faith) to help discover His will for your life...helping spiritual leaders in America plus on his numerous missions to Africa...strengthening the church's connection to communities...and why he started the "Unite The Valley" nonprofit that's about to have it's first big leadership event, a month from now. You can learn more and sign up at https://utvchatt.com/. (2:28) Pastor Curtis Doleman Jr. of Praise Ministry Tabernacle (Phenix City AL) explains how a deep connection to God and knowing His voice...leads directly to hearing the Lord's instructions for our life. To improve in leadership or anything else, do you try using your own tools or trust God and the tools he gives us? That can make it stressful or not. There are pre-conceived notions for leaders. He also explains the "staring contest" with God. (15:55) 33 years ago, Pastor Curtis had an unconventional salvation experience, alone in his bedroom. You don't want to miss this story, what he said to God and the quick responses in Scripture. (21:01) After going into ministry, he went on overseas Missions including to Africa, where Curtis also focuses on preaching to the leaders of churches, who also are stressed out and striving at times. He talks about the difference in prayer and worship in African nations. (29:45) A pastor for three decades himself, Curtis has long been called to help strengthen the church, which at times he says is like a "circus." Should we be quiet and stoic in church out of respect, trying to act perfect...or should we strive for freedom, real faith and an authentic experience with God? We talk about grace and sin too. (39:45) He also describes the paramount importance of faith leaders being connected with the community, local government, other leaders where you live. (46:50) The nonprofit he founded "Unite The Valley" has "lunch and learns" the 2nd Thursday of each month. And soon, they're hosting a leadership symposium January 9-10 in Columbus GA. He talks about the goals of these events, to lift up leaders. Pastor Curtis says the church does not lack anointing but has a lack of leadership. (55:35) And he closes our episode out in Prayer. Thanks for listening to the #RunTheRace podcast, which I hope you'll subscribe to! Share it with your friends. Also, write a quick review about it, on Apple podcasts. For more info and listen to any previous episodes, go to www.wtvm.com/podcast/.

Experiencing God Best – November 3, 2024 True success in life and experiencing God's best in life are the results of obeying the voice of God's Word and of His Spirit. Learning God's Word and learning to be sensitive to His Spirit are the keys to experiencing God's best in life. The post Experiencing God Best – November 3, 2024 first appeared on Christian Assembly Church. The post Experiencing God Best – November 3, 2024 appeared first on Christian Assembly Church.

David Kane (1922-2015) preaches on the experiences of Elijah and the widow of Zarephath, who learnt things in their humble difficult circumstances that made them into people through whom God could do a great work. Reading: 1 Kings 17:7-17, 21-24. (Recorded at the Belfast Easter Conference) The post Learning God in the Difficult Places (22 min) first appeared on Gospel Hall Audio.

Learning God's Voice | When God Speaks | Part 3 In this week's message, Senior Pastor David Dwight continued our When God Speaks series with a powerful and practical teaching. Drawing from 1 Samuel 3:1-20, we see how the Lord calls Samuel to speak truth to Eli. Yet, at first, Samuel doesn't recognize God's voice. Like Samuel, many of us are still learning how to discern when God is speaking. So, how can we better understand His voice? How do we sense what He's calling us to—whether in a specific moment or over the course of our lives? The key is remaining deeply rooted in Scripture and persistent in prayer. Above all, we are first called to an intimate relationship with God. From that place of closeness, we begin to recognize His voice more clearly. If you missed this message, we encourage you to watch it online at / hopechurchrva or click the link in our bio.

Learning God's Holy Commandment is is His Way of Righteousness which is His Commandment of the Word of the covenant He has commanded to all generations.

You can get a copy of the Monk Manual x CFR Collaboration Resourse and the Mysteries & Medicine Prayer Journal at: https://monkmanual.com/friars The Poco a Poco podcast happens because of many generous donors, including recurring monthly donations of any amount. Thinking about helping out? You can give at https://spiritjuice.org/supportpoco. Thank you!

Your conscience stores norms and standards you use to recognize right from wrong. Learning God's Word is how you change your thinking from a human viewpoint to a divine viewpoint. You live by what's in your conscience. “For as he thinks within himself, so he is” (Prov 23:7). Does your conscience honor God? “For our proud confidence is this: the testimony of our conscience that in holiness and godly sincerity, not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially toward you” (2 Cor 1:12). Divine norms and standards developed from learning Scripture will protect you and guide you through the wonderful life God designed for you. Click for Full Transcript: https://rhem.pub/your-conscience-403e58

Learn the lessons of the Bible with the newest e-book by Betty Johansen, “The Bible in Brief”. The book summarizes the key points of the Bible so you can understand God's plan for you and the world. Learn more at https://bettyjohansen.com/2024/08/27/discover-the-essence-of-the-bible-in-just-one-sitting-with-the-bible-in-brief/ Betty Johansen City: Big Spring Address: Texas Website: https://bettyjohansen.com/

     I define spirituality as: The life the Christian experiences when properly living in dependence upon the Holy Spirit and walking according to Scripture. Spirituality assumes regeneration, as one cannot be spiritual without being born again to new life through God the Holy Spirit (John 3:3; 1 Pet 1:3, 23). This new spiritual birth—or regeneration—occurs at the moment of faith in Christ, when one believes in Jesus as Savior (John 3:15-16; 6:40; 20:31; Acts 4:12; 16:31). Once they are born again, their spiritual life will advance in proportion to their intake of Scripture and their willingness to apply it as the Holy Spirit directs. Since we cannot live what we do not know, it's necessary to learn God's Word in order to live His will. A Christian who consistently studies and applies God's Word will reach spiritual maturity more quickly than one who studies little. Christians who are ignorant of God's Word, or unwilling to obey it, will default to human viewpoint thinking, emotion, or experience as the rule for life. Consequently, immature Christians may define spirituality by non-biblical terms or by their feelings at any given moment. This humanistic and emotional metric will inevitably lead to uncertainty, instability, and inconsistency in their walk with the Lord due to incorrect thoughts and vacillating emotions. God wants our thinking to be properly calibrated according to His Word (Psa 1:2-3; 2 Tim 2:15; 3:16-17; 1 Pet 2:2), and to live by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:6), which eventually yields fruit (Gal 5:22-23) and a stable Christian life (Psa 119:165; Isa 26:3; Phil 4:6-7; Col 3:16; 2 Tim 1:7). But time is a key ingredient for the Christian to reach spiritual maturity. Charles Ryrie states: "Christian maturity is the growth which the Holy Spirit produces over a period of time in the believer. To be sure, the same amount of time is not required for each individual, but some time is necessary for all. It is not the time itself which is determinative of maturity; rather it is the progress made and growth achieved which is all-important."[1]      As the Christian learns and lives God's Word by faith and yields to the Spirit's guiding, there will be a gradual transformation of character that will be seen in one's thoughts, values, words, and actions as they pertain to family, friends, work, finances, and social life. Wendell Johnston states: "People who are spiritual do certain things as well as refrain from some things. They will express love to God without reservation and will love others in the body of Christ. They will even show love and graciousness to their enemies (Rom 12:9, 20–21). Spiritual people seek to live according to the principles set forth in Scripture and desire to study the Word of God and put into practice what it says (2 Tim 2:15; 3:14–17; Heb 4:12; 5:11–14; 1 Pet 2:2). They will seek to worship God individually and with other believers (Heb 10:22–25). Spirituality will be expressed by proper conduct in the home (Eph 5:22–6:4; 1 Pet 3:3–7), and people who are spiritual will lead Christlike lives in society and will respect civil authority (1 Pet 2:13–17). They will live godly lives even in a hostile environment (1 Pet 3:13–17)."[2]      Furthermore, there is always opposition to spiritual growth, for we live in a fallen world and are confronted with many obstacles and distractions that seek to push or pull us away from God. Though constant distractions are all around us, we move forward by “destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor 10:5). Bringing our thoughts into captivity means focusing our minds on God and His Word (Psa 1:1-2; Isa 26:3; Prov 3:5-6; Col 3:1-2), and not allowing our thoughts to be bogged down and trapped with the cares of this world (Matt 6:25-34). This requires discipline. Spiritual Discipline      Spiritual maturity is the product of a disciplined life that is consciously and intentionally surrendered to God on a moment-by-moment basis. Discipline is doing what we ought to do, whether we want to do it or not, because it's right. Christian discipline is living as God wants us to live, as obedient-to-the-Word believers who walk by faith and not feelings. The proper Christian life glorifies the Lord, edifies others, and creates in us a personal sense of destiny that is connected with the God who called us into service. As we advance in our walk with the Lord, spiritual maturity is an important target, and this requires discipline of mind and will.      Paul, when writing to his young friend, Timothy, says, “discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness” (1 Tim 4:7). Paul does not deny the benefit of bodily discipline, but, when compared to godly discipline, says it “is only of little profit” (1 Tim 4:8a). Godliness translates the Greek noun eusebeia (εὐσέβεια) which denotes devotion to God and a life that is pleasing to Him. It means we are concerned with what the Lord thinks about us and we consciously choose to live as He directs. According to Robert B. Thieme, Jr., “Godliness is the virtuous manner of life that results from devotion to God—the lifestyle of the Christian growing in grace, relying upon divine power, applying divine viewpoint to circumstances, and thereby fulfilling God's will and plan (2 Tim 3:5; Tit 1:1; 2 Pet 1:3; 3:11).”[3]      Paul prioritizes godliness, declaring it “is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Tim 4:8b). The word discipline in 1 Timothy 4:7 translates the Greek verb gumnazō (γυμνάζω), which we bring into the English as gymnasium. In secular use, it referred to how athletes trained in the ancient world, buffeting their bodies to improve their physique that they might have a chance at winning in a sport. However, in the New Testament, the word was used of training one's mental and spiritual abilities. The focus is on inward development of mind and character rather than the outward enhancement of the body. And the discipline is to be ongoing (present tense), carried out by each believer (active voice), and executed as a directive by the Lord (imperative mood). For Paul, godliness does not happen accidentally, but is connected with “the teaching that promotes godliness” (1 Tim 6:3), and “the knowledge of the truth which leads to godliness” (Tit 1:1). It is learned and lived on a daily basis.      The disciplined Christian develops over time, as biblical thinking leads to righteous acts, and righteous acts develop into godly habits, and godly habits produce godly character. Spiritual disciplines bring us to the place of spiritual maturity, which is God's desire for us (Heb 6:1). The writer to the Hebrews references mature believers, saying, “solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil” (Heb 5:14). Maturity translates the Greek adjective teleios (τέλειος) which denotes one who has attained a level of spiritual growth, which is witnessed in the daily application God's Word (Heb 4:1-2). Mature Christians are what they are because of practice and training. The word “practice” translates the Greek noun hexis (ἕξις), which, according to Louw-Nida, refers to “a repeated activity—practice, doing again and again, doing repeatedly.”[4] And the word “trained” translates the Greek verb gumnazō (γυμνάζω), which, according to Louw-Nida,  means “to experience vigorous training and control…to train, to undergo discipline.”[5] The advancing Christian eventually reaches a place of maturity when he/she is able “to discern good and evil” (Heb 5:14c). Thomas Constable states, “A person becomes a mature Christian, not only by gaining information, though that is foundational, but by using that information to make decisions that are in harmony with God's will.”[6] According to Arnold Fruchtenbaum: "A mature believer is one who is of full age spiritually. The Greek word for full-grown men is “goal.” A mature believer has attained the goal of his spiritual life because he did apply what he knew and was, therefore, open to learning more. Spiritual maturity is a result of careful exercise: for full-grown men, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern good and evil. A mature believer has the ability to make responsible decisions. The obligation of verse 14 is for all believers to make proper use of what they know…Usage of the Word causes believers to progress from immaturity to maturity; a lack of usage means regressing from maturity to immaturity."[7] Warren Wiersbe adds: "As we grow in the Word, we learn to use it in daily life. As we apply the Word, we exercise our “spiritual senses” and develop spiritual discernment. It is a characteristic of little children that they lack discernment. A baby will put anything into its mouth. An immature believer will listen to any preacher on the radio or television and not be able to identify whether or not he is true to the Scriptures. Just as our physical bodies have senses without which we could not function, so our inner “spiritual man” has “spiritual senses.”…As we feed on the Word of God and apply it in daily life, our inner “spiritual senses” get their exercise and become strong and keen. Paul called this process exercising ourselves unto godliness (1 Tim 4:7–8)."[8]      As growing Christians, we understand that God's Word is the standard for right thinking and conduct (orthodoxy and orthopraxy), and learning and living His Word by faith is the key to spiritual advance. As a growing Christian I want to be wise in the ways of God and His Word. But this requires commitment and many choices throughout my life. I realize the wise are wise by choice and never by chance. That is, no one is accidentally wise. This is also true for being just, loving, gracious, kind, and merciful, for these and other godly virtues are the product of many good choices over years of practice.      The successful Christian life starts with positive volition. Jesus said, “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself” (John 7:17). The word “willing” translates the Greek verb thelō (θέλω), which, according to Louw & Nida, means “to desire to have or experience something—to desire, to want, to wish.”[9] To be “willing” to know and do God's will is the starting place for our advance to spiritual maturity. Our next step is to dig into God's Word and learn it. Jeremiah expressed positive volition when he said, “Your words were found and I ate them, and Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart” (Jer 15:16a). A psalmist wrote, “How sweet are Your words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Psa 119:103), and “The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces” (Psa 119:72). Peter wrote, “like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation” (1 Pet 2:2). Learning God's Word serves as the basis for right living (Rom 12:1-2). Once we learn it, we must walk in it, which means applying it to our lives (Jam 1:22), and this by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:6). Ezra is a good example of a believer who learned and lived God's Word, as it is written, “Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the LORD and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel” (Ezra 7:10). When it states that Ezra had “set his heart,” it meant he had positive volition and was determined to learn and live God's Word. This is the proper order. When a Christian has a right will (orthothely), and operates with right thinking (orthodoxy), it establishes the basis for right behavior (orthopraxy). Positive volition, divine viewpoint thinking, and the walk of faith are what the Lord desires for us. When these are present, maturity will be achieved, it's just a matter of testing and time. Dr. Steven R. Cook     [1] Charles C. Ryrie, Dr. Ryrie's Articles (Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2010), 91. [2] Wendell G. Johnston, “Spirituality,” The Theological Wordbook, 334–335. [3] Robert B. Thieme, Jr. “Godliness”, Thieme's Bible Doctrine Dictionary, (Houston, TX., R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible Ministries, 2022), 111. [4] Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains (New York: United Bible Societies, 1996), 511. [5] Ibid., 466. [6] Tom Constable, Tom Constable's Expository Notes on the Bible (Galaxie Software, 2003), Heb 5:14. [7] Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, The Messianic Jewish Epistles: Hebrews, James, First Peter, Second Peter, Jude, 1st ed. (Tustin, CA: Ariel Ministries, 2005), 70. [8] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 295. [9] Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains, 287.

Learning God's ways is unlearning the world. amenpodcast.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

Learning God's ways is unlearning the world. amenpodcast.com

If our approach to prayer never goes beyond the words we speak, we are missing out on the most significant aspect of prayer. The Highest Priority for Every Human Being Is Hearing the Voice of God. Our Journey with Jesus is a Journey of Learning God's Voice.   —— If you want to support what God is doing through Cityline, click here: https://app.securegive.com/Cityline/main/donate/category   Want to learn more about Cityline and how to get involved? Click here: https://citylineonline.org   Are you in need of prayer or someone to talk with? Click here: https://citylineonline.org/prayer   —— Follow us on socials! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/citylineonline/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/citylineonline/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCumM40GFhmHumITXmh8MV0g Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cityline-church/id1308579363?mt=2 Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0pHyJ5pxtry1tIMlD9ZBPd?si=e01fc4636d5543e1  

Learning God's Word!

     As a Christian, it is possible to have correct thinking (orthodoxy) and not live by it. James wrote, “To one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin” (Jam 4:17). There are times when believers know God's Word, but because of negative volition, do not apply it. Solomon, a true believer, is a good example of this. God called Solomon “My son” (2 Sam 7:14), heard his prayer (2 Ch 1:8-10), made him king over Israel (2 Ch 1:11), granted him “wisdom and knowledge” (2 Ch 1:12), used him to write three books of the Bible (Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon), directed him to build the temple in Jerusalem over a period of seven years (1 Ki 6:38), made him ruler of Israel for forty years (1 Ki 11:42), and we are told that “Solomon loved the LORD and walked in the statutes of his father David” (1 Ki 3:3a). These are all signs of a true believer. However, according to Scripture, Solomon disobeyed God's command for the king of Israel, which stated, “He shall not multiply wives for himself” (Deut 17:17a). Despite this directive, Solomon practiced polygamy, having “seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines, and his wives turned his heart away” (1 Ki 11:3).[1] Solomon's disobedience was not a singular event but extended over many years, persisting until the end of his days. By the conclusion of his life, Solomon had forsaken his wisdom, as “his wives turned his heart away after other gods” (1 Kings 11:4a). Because Solomon consented to their corrupting pagan influence, he was “not wholly devoted to the LORD his God” (1 Ki 11:4b). Because he had negative volition, “Solomon did what was evil in the sight of the LORD” (1 Ki 11:6). Idolatry is evil business. It is the sin of substitution in which people devote themselves to worship something or someone in the place of God. It is foremost a sin of a covetous heart that leads people to desire more than what God provides, and to trust something or someone lesser than God to satisfy their wants and needs. Solomon's evil practices demonstrate that a true believer—who cannot forfeit his salvation—can completely turn away from the Lord and commit himself to a life of sin. After Solomon turned away from the Lord and worshipped idols, Scripture reveals God severely disciplined him for his sin (1 Ki 11:11-43). As Christians, we should not be like our brother Solomon, who corrupted his ways and pursued idolatry, knowing that God will discipline us severely if we commit egregious sin (Heb 12:6).      Biblically speaking, it is possible for believers to commit any sin an unbeliever can commit. For example, Aaron led the Israelites to worship an idol (Ex 32:1-6). Gideon made an ephod which became an object of worship in Israel (Judg 8:27). Samson slept with prostitutes (Jud 16:1-4). David had an affair with Bathsheba and had Uriah, her husband, murdered (2 Sam 11:1-21). Peter tried to prevent Jesus from going to the cross (Matt 16:21-23), and later denied the Lord three times (Matt 26:34-35; 69-75). Christians at Corinth engaged in quarrels (1 Cor 1:11), jealousy and strife (1 Cor 3:1-3), fornication (1 Cor 5:1-2), disputing in public courts (1 Cor 6:1-8), behaved selfishly (1 Cor 11:17-20), got drunk in church (1 Cor 11:21), and misused their spiritual gifts (1 Cor 14:1-40). The church at Ephesus is said to have left its first love, Christ (Rev 2:1-7). The church at Pergamum tolerated false teaching and engaged in immorality (Rev 2:12-17). The church at Thyatira was led by a wicked woman named Jezebel who enticed them into sexual immorality (Rev 2:18-29). The church at Sardis was rebuked for lacking good works (Rev 3:1-6). The church at Laodicea was rebuked for being lukewarm and spiritually impoverished (Rev 3:14-22). The apostle John twice bowed down and worshipped an angel (Rev 19:10; 22:8-9).      Beyond these particular instances of sin, Christians are instructed, “do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts, and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness” (Rom 6:12-13a), “flee sexual immorality” (1 Cor 6:18), “he who steals must steal no longer” (Eph 4:28), “let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth” (Eph 4:29), “do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God” (Eph 4:30), “Do not quench the Spirit” (1 Th 5:19), put aside “anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth” (Col 3:8), “abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul” (1 Pet 2:11), “make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler” (1 Pet 4:15), “do not love the world nor the things in the world” (1 John 2:15), and “little children, guard yourselves from idols” (1 John 5:21). These commands would be pointless if it were not possible for Christians to commit all these sins. It is never the will of God that we sin (1 John 2:1), but if we sin, and “there is no man who does not sin” (1 Ki 8:46), it is God's will that we confess our sins (1 John 1:9), accept responsibility for our actions, and get back to learning God's Word (2 Tim 2:15; 1 Pet 2:2; 2 Pet 3:18), living by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38), and pursuing holiness (1 Pet 1:15-16), and righteousness (1 Tim 6:11; 2 Tim 2:22). Consequences for Sin      It is difficult for some to understand, but when Christians sin, we are not in danger of condemnation (Rom 8:1; 35-39), we do not forfeit the free gift of eternal life (John 10:28; Rom 3:24; 6:23), and we do not cease to possess the righteousness of God that was given to us at the moment of faith in Christ (Rom 5:17; Phil 3:9). When Christians sin, we are walking in darkness and have broken fellowship with God (1 John 1:5-6), and stifled the work of the Holy Spirit who dwells within us (Eph 4:30; 1 Th 5:19). If we continue in sin, or leave our sin unconfessed, we are in real danger of divine discipline from God (Psa 32:3-4; Heb 12:6; 1 John 5:16-17; cf. Dan 4:37). Even though David was forgiven for his sin with Bathsheba (2 Sam 12:13), he still faced earthly consequences that impacted him and his family (2 Sam 12:10-14). Serious sin, and ongoing sin, can eventuate in divine discipline to the point of physical death (1 John 5:16; cf., Lev 10:1-2; Acts 5:3-5; 1 Cor 11:30), as well as the loss of eternal rewards (1 Cor 3:10-15; 2 John 1:8). These are serious punishments by the Lord which impact a  believer in time and eternity; however, the sinning saint is not in danger of losing salvation.[2] A Better Way      As Christians, God calls us to “pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart” (2 Tim 2:22; cf. 1 Tim 6:11), to “present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God” (Rom 6:13b), and to “present your members as slaves to righteousness” (Rom 6:19a). Addressing the Christians at Ephesus, Paul wrote, “you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light, for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth, trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord” (Eph 5:8-10). Peter also wrote, “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness” (1 Pet 2:24a). Righteous living—that's what God desires from us. He wants our thoughts, words, and actions to align with His righteous character and written Word as it applies to us as Christians. But this requires positive volition and a commitment to the Lord (Rom 12:1-2), to learn His Word (2 Tim 3:16-17; 1 Peter 2:2) and live His Word by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38).      For us as Christians, God has done everything for us to live spiritually successful lives (i.e., giving a new nature, the Holy Spirit, and divine revelation). But God does not force us to live spiritually, as we must choose to live out the new life. And, like Solomon, we are always in danger of being corrupted by others (1 Cor 15:33), by Satan's world-system (1 John 2:15-16), and our fleshly natures within (Rom 13:14; Col 3:9; Gal 5:16-17; 1 John 1:8). To be faithful to the Lord to the end of our days (as God directs), one needs thinking that is properly calibrated according to Scripture (Rom 12:1-2). God has already blessed us with everything we need to live spiritually (Eph 1:3), but it's up to us to lay hold of what He's provided and to advance to spiritual maturity.      The successful Christian life starts with positive volition. Jesus said, “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself” (John 7:17). The word “willing” translates the Greek verb thelō (θέλω), which means “to desire to have or experience something.”[3]To be “willing” to know and do God's will is the starting place for our advance to spiritual maturity. Our next step is to dig into God's Word and learn it. Jeremiah expressed positive volition when he said, “Your words were found and I ate them, and Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart” (Jer 15:16a). A psalmist wrote, “How sweet are Your words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Psa 119:103), and “The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces” (Psa 119:72). Peter wrote, “like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation” (1 Pet 2:2). Learning God's Word serves as the basis for right living (Rom 12:1-2). But once we learn it, we must walk in it, which means applying it to our life, and this by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:6). Ezra is a good example of a believer who learned and lived God's Word, as it is written, “Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the LORD and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel” (Ezra 7:10). This is the proper order. When a Christian has a right will (orthothely), and operates with right thinking (orthodoxy), it establishes the basis for right behavior (orthopraxy). Positive volition, divine viewpoint thinking, and the walk of faith is what the Lord wants.      As God's people, let us constantly learn His Word (Psa 1:2-3; Ezra 7:10; 2 Tim 2:15; 1 Pet 2:2), recalibrate our thinking to align with Scripture (Rom 12:1-2), discipline our minds (2 Cor 10:5), live by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:6), confess our sins as needed (1 John 1:9), be filled with the Spirit (Eph 5:18), walk in the Spirit (Gal 5:16), submit ourselves to the Lord (Jam 4:7), do good (Gal 6:10), serve others (Phil 2:3-4), rejoice always (1 Th 5:16), pray without ceasing (1 Th 5:17), be thankful in everything (1 Th 5:18), maintain fellowship with other Christians (Heb 10:25), share our wealth to promote Christian ministry (1 Tim 6:17-19), and advance to spiritual maturity (Heb 6:1). If we do this, we'll glorify the Lord, bless others, and live righteously as God's expects.      Lordship Salvation proponents typically emphasize that genuine faith naturally leads to good works and obedience to God. They argue that while believers are capable of sinning, a pattern of unrepentant sin and disobedience raises doubts about the authenticity of one's faith. Therefore, although believers may struggle with sin, true believers are expected to ultimately repent and return to God, rather than persisting in a lifestyle of sin. This means that all true believers will persevere in good works until the very end to ensure their entrance into heaven. The biblical examples provided in this article illustrate how severely a true believer can sin. Additionally, the example of Solomon demonstrates that a genuine believer can commit egregious sins, such as polygamy and idolatry, and continue in that sin until the end of his days. Though sinning saints should fear God's discipline, such believers should not fear the dangers of hell, as they are truly saved and that is never a threat to them. Dr. Steven R. Cook     [1] Scripture also reveals King David had eight wives: Michal (1 Sam 18:27), Abigail (1 Sam 25:39-42), Ahinoam (1 Sam 25:43), Bathsheba (2 Sam 12:24), Maacah, Haggith, Abital and Eglah (2 Sam 3:2-5), and “David took more concubines and wives from Jerusalem” (2 Sam 5:13). As far as I can tell, David married only women within the Israelite community, and these did not tempt him into idolatry. [2] Even when the prodigal son lived in the world (Luke 15:11-13), and though he lived like an unbeliever, he never ceased to be a son (Luke 15:14-16), and when he came to his senses and returned home (Luke 15:17-19), his father recognized him as his son and welcomed him back (Luke 15:20-24). A child of God is always a child of God, even if we fall into worldly living. [3] Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains (New York: United Bible Societies, 1996), 287.

In Psalm 71, we have a man in his middle years looking back, looking around, and looking forward. He is musing over some of his life lessons of faith and wisdom, seeking to finish strong. This is a good exercise for all of us whatever age we are! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1141/29

March 20, 2024 Wednesday night teaching from Rose Colón at Lighthouse on the Rock Fellowship in Dry Ridge, KY. Website: www.lighthouseontherockky.org Facebook: https://facebook.com/lotrchurch

March 13, 2024 Wednesday night teaching from Rose Colón at Lighthouse on the Rock Fellowship in Dry Ridge, KY. Website: www.lighthouseontherockky.org Facebook: https://facebook.com/lotrchurch

John 8 on State of the Union?; Warring against Christ's way; "Devil"; Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil; vs Tree of Life; Man's dominion; Manipulating knowledge; Making poor choices; Holy Spirit enlightenment; Followers of Moses; Fascism; State of the Union = Bondage; Corvee; "Legal title"; Christ's criticism of government; "I am"; Burning bushes; Avoiding speculation; Hearing God's instructions; Doing God's word; God doesn't owe you; Accusing of own faults; Providing for whole truth; "Fascism" defined; Demonic deception; Modern Israel vs God's Israel; Israel/Hamas conflict; Historic Judea; Passports and allegiance; Israelites and Canaanites; Oppression; "Internationals"; History alteration; Biblical alteration; Seeking His kingdom and righteousness; Learning God's will; Rom 16:17; 2 Pe 2:18; 1 Cor 1:10 No division; Leaving judgment to God; Death of a loved one; Allowing others liberty; 1 Cor 11:18; Don't censor; Gal 5:13-21 inheritors of the kingdom; 1 Cor 3:3-9; Public religion of Social Security?; Income Tax on labor; US Constitution; Deut 17; Appetites for benefits; First Civil War troops mission; Repentance; Siding with righteousness; The "way" of Abraham, Moses and Christ; Democracy vs Republic; Free assemblies; Desiring a ruler?; Defending the rich; 14th Amendment; "personhood"; Corporations; Tending to the living with righteousness; Law of nations; Excise tax; Waiving your rights; Sureties for debt; Debt to Jesus?; "Tens, hundreds and thousands"; Decrying the constitution; Titular authority; Landed Americans; Gold/Silver/Gun confiscation; Slothfulness; Militia; Campaign financing; Walking according to Holy Spirit; Christ's "weightier matters"; Cleptocrats; Taxation due to covetousness; No excuses; Monitoring your minister; Knowing everyone in your free assembly; Public education; Law of Nature; Freewill offerings; A New Rome; Turning your back on God; Returning every man to his family and possessions; President = Caesar; "Apotheos"; "Free" benefits?; Have conversations; Gather with others; Empowering the people; Bringing light into the room; Love requires sacrifice; Sharing/charity; Reassemble God's kingdom.

February 28, 2024 Wednesday night teaching from Rose Colón at Lighthouse on the Rock Fellowship in Dry Ridge, KY. Website: www.lighthouseontherockky.org Facebook: https://facebook.com/lotrchurch

February 21, 2024 Wednesday night teaching from Rose Colón at Lighthouse on the Rock Fellowship in Dry Ridge, KY. Website: www.lighthouseontherockky.org Facebook: https://facebook.com/lotrchurch

For many, the deep theological education that one receives at a seminary has felt unattainable due to geographical and time constraints. Dr. John Schwandt is helping to bridge this gap with Redemption Seminary, a fully online self-paced program that allows people at all stages of life to dive deep into the Bible with the pairing of 1:1 live mentorship and rich courses. Join us as we chat with him about the value of theological education for everyone – not just pastors! 

January 21, 2024 Pastor Vince Bissey Grace Point Church in Surprise, AZ Scripture referenced: Micah 3:1-12 Grace Point Church is all about pursuing Jesus and His grace, period. We would love nothing more than to introduce you to the gospel and a life lived deeply with God and others. To support our ministry and help us continue to reach people in Surprise, Arizona, and around the world, click here: https://www.gracepointaz.com/give STAY CONNECTED Website: https://www.gracepointaz.com Grace Point Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gracepointaz Grace Point Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracepoint

Donation link: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64 Or go to www.frponprayer.com and use the Donations tab. Appreciating God for who He is and what He has done is a critical characteristic of the child of God. Even the term "child of God" carries the weight of being needy and humble. Humility born of gratitude: Squarely gives God the glory due Him and moves our souls to rest in our trust in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It is suitable for our soul to be thankful as we throw ourselves onto the mercies of Holy God. He is Holy, compassionate, and acts in mercies. "Care and grief do us good and no hurt when they set us a-praying, and engage us, not only to speak to God, but to cry to Him, as those that are in earnest." Matthew Henry "But Thou, O LORD, art a shield about me, My glory, and the One who lifts my head. 4 I was crying to the LORD with my voice, And He answered me from His holy mountain. Selah. 5 I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the LORD sustains me. 6 I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people Who have set themselves against me round about." Psalm 3:3-6 Stop with me for a few minutes and consider how sweet it is to cry out earnestly to God and rest like a child in His faithfulness. Sometimes, I would have kept beloved friends and my babies escape from care, grief, and troubles. God is merciful, though, to show me the abundant satisfaction that comes when forced to draw near Him amid distress. I would be a most terrible friend, especially Dad if I shielded my beloved from those care, grief, and troubles designed by God to humble and force them to draw close to Him. Learning God is our shield through what He takes us through is the most potent satisfaction to our souls. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheyne Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard www.frponprayer.com freerangeprayer@gmail.com Facebook - Free Range Preacher Ministries Instagram: freerangeministries All our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition. For access to the Voice Over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.com Our podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 Instagram Season 006 Episode 008

Talking to God doesn't have to be formal prayer or proper, fancy language. We can just talk, ask for direction or say thank you. We can also spend quiet time listening for the response or the inner guidance we need. Learning God's language of serendipity and coincidence, of receiving answers and solutions in different and unexpected ways is central to a mature spiritual life. ----- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Please follow me on Insight Timer!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Rate, Review & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts. If you like this podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Support Spiritual Psi-Kology on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Healing Trauma, my new 10 session course is available now!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Renee's book, workbook and guided audio series "Allies & Demons: Working With Spirit For Power And Healing." is now available on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon,  Kindle and Audible⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Awaken the wisdom of your authentic self with these 15 transformative processes of Spiritual PsI-Kology. -- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click for a FREE Download⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: Ch. 1 and 1st Inner Journey of Allies & Demons. Spiritual Psi-Kology combines the ancient healing and wisdom traditions of Shamanism and Buddhist philosophy with the best of Western psychology to create a powerful medicine for the mind, body and spirit. If you'd like to learn more about how Spiritual Psi-Kology might be helpful in your life, get details about my Mentorship program, or set up a FREE 30 minute consultation, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ReneeMcKenna.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Check out my ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ channel. Follow me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ . --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/spiritualpsikology/message

Good or bad circumstances do not move a mature believer because his focus stays the same. His faith is not shaken. Learning God's Word is how you grow your faith and develop a relaxed mental attitude. “So faith comes from hearing and hearing by the Word of God” (Rom 10:17). Regardless of your circumstances, you can be content if you grow spiritually and depend on the Lord who strengthens you. “For I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am…I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Phil 4:11-13). The contentment in your soul gives you the capacity for life, the capacity for love and the capacity for happiness.  Click for Full Transcript: https://rhem.pub/overcoming-circumstances-61f9c5

Even in the darkest places, you can still look up. God will never abandon the work of his hands. He promises to fulfill his purpose for you.