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Walking by the Spirit and abiding in Christ aren't identical phrases, but they describe the same Spirit-empowered life from two complementary angles. Turn to John 15 with Keith Waggoner as he concludes the Summer Series and breaks down how these concepts relate and bring about the growth God desires in every believer.
Marriage, Sex & Adultery: Why God's Design Leads to Life God's command, "You shall not commit adultery," isn't about taking something away—it's about protecting something sacred. In this message from the Thou Shalt Live series, we explore God's design for marriage, sexual purity, and covenant relationships. Discover why faithfulness matters, how to guard your heart from temptation, and why no failure is beyond God's grace. Whether you're married, single, healing from betrayal, or simply seeking biblical wisdom, this message offers practical truth and lasting hope.
Sometimes, a child needs a little help from his mom or dad. Whether it’s trying to tie his shoe, or trying to climb a tree, sometimes he just can quite make it on his own. Well, whether we admit or not, we often need help from our Heavenly Father. When we try to live a righteous life, but still have a sin nature, that’s when we need to rely on our God. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us see how to call on God and accept His help in our daily walk. Experience the Harvest Crusade on July 11 when you watch online! — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sometimes, a child needs a little help from his mom or dad. Whether it’s trying to tie his shoe, or trying to climb a tree, sometimes he just can quite make it on his own. Well, whether we admit or not, we often need help from our Heavenly Father. When we try to live a righteous life, but still have a sin nature, that’s when we need to rely on our God. And today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us see how to call on God and accept His help in our daily walk. Experience the Harvest Crusade on July 11 when you watch online! — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How to Live the Life God Designed for You: 10 Life-Changing Lessons from Colossians 3 Have you ever wondered... Am I really living the life God created me to live? If you've been praying for clarity about God's purpose, seeking His direction, or longing to become the woman He created you to be, this episode is for you. While spending time with God in Colossians 3, I found myself writing down ten life-changing truths that every Christian woman needs to remember. These aren't just good ideas—they're biblical principles that will help you grow in faith, lead with confidence, and influence others for Christ. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, distracted by the world, or unsure of your next step, these lessons will help refocus your heart on what matters most. In this episode, you'll discover: Why setting your mind on eternal things changes everything How to overcome worldly distractions and live with purpose What it really means to find your identity in Christ How to develop Christlike character in everyday life The importance of spiritual growth and lifelong learning Why forgiveness, humility, kindness, and patience are marks of strong Christian leadership How God wants to use your story to influence and encourage others What it means to represent Jesus in your home, workplace, church, and community Practical ways to become the woman God designed you to be Ten biblical truths from Colossians 3 that can transform the way you live and lead Scripture Colossians 3:1-17 (NLT) Mentioned in this episode FREE LEAD Framework Download my free LEAD Framework and discover four biblical shifts that will help you gain clarity, grow confidence, and increase your Christ-centered influence.
Intro: Theme/Topic (What's the problem, the question, etc.) Yesterday, our country turned 250 years old! And I want you to think about what the Declaration of Independence actually was — because before it was a statement of ideals, it was a legal declaration. It was a formal pronouncement that changed…
The Holy Spirit is God, One with the Father and the Son. He dwells within us, convicting, guiding, and empowering us to live the Jesus-shaped life. Only through developing an intimate relationship with Him can we experience the life that God has for us and for those around us.Check out thisisfoundry.com for more information about Foundry Church!Follow @thisisfoundry on social media for updates.Join us for part 9 of learning more about the Holy Spirit!
In this message from June 28th, 2026, Robby Gallaty looks at God's promises and how we can claim them in our lives today. Speaker: Robby Gallaty
Lead Pastor Ben Wallis
Humble and Kind: The Life God Desires Rev. Amanda Stratton Micah 6:6-8
I want to speak especially to young pastors and church leaders: if you desire to serve God, give Him everything you have, don't hold anything back. God hasn't called you into a position of prominence, but has given you the responsibility of service. I want to challenge you, God is saying something very important: He wants you, He wants your life, your time, your family, your money; this is the calling upon your life, God wants everything. How much did God give for you? He gave His only Son so that you would be set free. Give your life back in return. 'My Everything' used by kind permission of Vinesong. For more information on the Ministry of David Hathaway https://www.eurovision.org.uk
The Life God Blesses // Psalm 1Series - Psalm 1Speaker - Gordon HallNeed Prayer? - Click HereSunday's • 10am • Clovis North High School/Granite Ridge.For the latest on what's happening at church, visit rvcfresno.com or @RVCFresno on Facebook and Instagram.
We continue our series exploring the Trinity. This week, we unpack the importance of understanding God the Spirit
Do you ever feel like you're constantly waiting for the next season of life? As a working Christian mom, it's easy to believe that peace, joy, and contentment are waiting somewhere in the future—when life slows down, when the stress eases, or when circumstances change. But what if God is inviting you to experience His presence right where you are today? In this episode of Faith Led Working Moms, we're talking about the importance of being present in the season God has given you. You'll discover why it's so easy to focus on what's next, how that mindset can keep us from seeing God's faithfulness in our everyday lives, and practical encouragement to help you embrace the present moment. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, distracted, anxious about the future, or simply rushing through your days, this episode will encourage you to slow down, notice God's provision, and find peace in the life you're living right now. In this episode, you'll learn: Why many Christian moms struggle to be present in their current season How focusing on the future can rob you of today's joy What Scripture teaches about living one day at a time How to recognize God's faithfulness in ordinary moments Practical encouragement for finding peace and contentment as a working Christian mom Scripture Mentioned: Psalm 118:24
We are here to show people the real love of Jesus Omega Church - San Antonio, TX __ Stay Connected Omega Church Website: https://omegachurch.com/ Omega Church Instagram: / omegachurch Omega Church Facebook: / omegachurchsa Omega Church Youtube: / @omegachurchbiblical
What if God's definition of blessing looks completely opposite from yours? Pastor Wayne reveals how Jesus flips worldly success on its head in the Beatitudes, showing that the blessed life begins with being "poor in spirit"—completely dependent on Christ rather than self-sufficient. Through surrender, mercy, and peacemaking, the Kingdom forms within us, transforming not just our hearts but our relationships. Even when the world resists Kingdom living, our reward remains secure in Christ's unshakeable Kingdom. Ready to discover true blessing through surrender? Don't miss this foundation-setting message that redefines everything!
ScriptureTranscriptMusic:Way Maker - Integrity MusicPrayer to the Holy Spirit - Francesca LaRosaRevive Us Again - Selah
What if God never intended for you to live empty, exhausted, and running on fumes? What if the Holy Spirit wants to fill you so completely that what fills you is greater than what faces you? In the book of Acts, Luke uses six different words to describe the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Each word reveals a unique dimension of all that the Holy Spirit brings to our lives.The Holy Spirit wants to:· Immerse you in God's presence.· Give you divine power to fulfill your assignment.· Completely saturate you with His presence that is greater than your problems· Help you live in the overflow, not on fumes· Wrap you in the Father's embrace· Equip you to live the life God always intended.
DOING LIFE: Daily Devotions For Finding Peace in Stressful Times
The fingerprints of the Creator are literally EVERYWHERE. You just have to look.
Are you feeling a little lost, or unsure what comes next? We'll he—lp you discover God's plan
Thanks for joining us! We'd love to give you more information about who we are and how to get plugged in here at Hillside. Fill this page out on our website: https://hmcworship.com/im-new/Find this week's bulletin, sermon notes, and reflection questions right here: https://hmcworship.com/wp-content/uploads/4_26_26-Bulletin.docx.pdfFollow along in the YouVersion Bible App: http://bible.com/events/49597985
Are insecurity and self-doubt keeping you from fully stepping into the life God has for you? So often, insecurity fuels patterns like people-pleasing, fear of rejection, and even codependency—but it doesn't have to define you. In this meaningful conversation, we're diving into God's remedy for insecurity and how to break free from the lies that keep you stuck. Join us Monday at 7:30 PM EST and get ready to live in freedom as God intended! God has timeless truths to help you navigate life and live in freedom as He intended. Join us LIVE on Mondays at 7:30 PM ET where we answer your questions on how to Conquer Codependency God's Way. Do you have a question you would like Aliene to address? We've got you! Just leave your question in the comments below or email questions@treasuredministries.com Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment if this episode resonates with you! For more information/resources check out the links below: ⇨ Visit the Treasured Ministries Website: https://treasuredministries.com/ ⇨ Sign up for our FREE newsletter and get inspiration for your faith journey https://treasuredministries.activehos... ⇨ Donate: https://treasuredministries.com/donate/ ⇨Sign up for retreat https://treasuredministries.com/retreat/ _____________________ Treasured Ministries provides discipleship, biblical resources, and community for women so they can exchange codependency for God dependency and thrive. For more information visit https://treasuredministries.com ______________________ Aliene Thompson is the president of Treasured Ministries International, the creator of the Nourish Bible Study Method, and the founder of the Treasured Tribe, an online Christian community for women. Her popular series on YouTube, "Conquering Codependency God's Way", helps women worldwide move from codependency to God dependency so they can live in freedom as God intended. #codependence #conqueringcodependency
In this episode, we continue our walk through the Baptist Catechism with Question 16: Did our first parents continue in the estate wherein they were created? Before diving in, we briefly review our last two episodes — God's works of providence (Q14) and the Covenant of Life God established with Adam (Q15). From there, we get into the Fall itself, examining what Scripture says about the freedom of the will, God's foreknowledge, and why God is never the author of sin. We then walk through what humanity lost in Adam's fall — a darkened mind, holiness, freedom, rest, and communion with God — and close with practical application for believers today. Scriptures Referenced: Isaiah 48:8 • Deuteronomy 32:4 • James 1:13–14 • Ecclesiastes 7:29 • Ephesians 4:18 • John 8:34 • Isaiah 57:21 • Genesis 3:8 • 1 Corinthians 10:12 • Psalm 62:9 Related Episodes: Episode 662: Baptist Catechism Q14 — God's Works of Providence Episode 674: Baptist Catechism Q15 — The Covenant of Life
Stepping into a new season of life can feel overwhelming, uncertain, and even intimidating—but Jeremiah 1:4-8 reminds us that God calls and equips us long before we feel ready. When you're entering a season of change, it’s easy to focus on your limitations, asking “Am I enough?” or “Do I have what it takes?” Yet God’s response is clear: don’t let your “I’m only…” define you—His calling is greater than your doubts. Growth rarely comes with a clear roadmap. Instead of giving us all the answers upfront, God invites us to trust Him one step at a time. Whether you're graduating, starting something new, or simply navigating an unexpected transition, your role isn’t to have everything figured out—it’s to be available and obedient where you are. As you release control and surrender your plans, you’ll begin to see that God’s purpose unfolds in the process, not all at once. Highlights Seasons of change often bring both excitement and fear Feeling unqualified is normal—but not a disqualifier God calls you before you feel ready or capable Your “I’m only…” mindset can limit what God wants to do through you You don’t need the full plan—just the next step of obedience God equips you with everything needed for your calling Trusting God’s timing leads to clarity and growth Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: When You’re Entering a Season of Change By Hannah Benson Bible Reading:“Now the word of the Lord came to me, saying, ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.’ Then I said, ‘Ah, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.’ But the Lord said to me, ‘Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the Lord’” (Jeremiah 1:4-8 ESV). I remember when I graduated from high school. I was homeschooled my entire life, so when it was time for me to graduate, we joined a bunch of other homeschooling families and their high school seniors so we could walk across the stage and receive our diplomas from our parents. I don’t know how to describe that moment. I was leaving my childhood behind. Stepping into adulthood. And yet, on the other hand, almost nothing would change. Instead of going to college, I would get a job. But I still planned to live at home. Yet I still felt this sense of apprehensive excitement. What did the future hold? I had so many dreams for the future. I knew God had called me to write for Him, but what would that look like? What about the passion burning within me since I was a little girl—to somehow be involved in the film industry, making movies for Jesus? Can you relate? Whether you’re graduating this year or simply stepping into a new season, change can be both scary and exciting. As a new graduate, I felt in some ways like the prophet Jeremiah when God called him. Inadequate. I’m pretty sure I used the “I’m only a youth” line—or something similar—as I prayed in the years leading up to my high-school graduation. We can all feel small at times. People thought that when I graduated, I had my life figured out. Or more figured out than most. I knew God wanted me to write books and that I wasn’t going to college—at least at that point. While I couldn’t deny the feeling that writing books was only a portion of what God wanted me to do, I didn’t know what else He wanted me to do. The truth is, from the time I was young, I wanted to change the world for Jesus—but I didn’t know how. I felt so small. How could I reach the world for Jesus from home? Over time, God showed me that I didn’t need to figure out the “how” but to surrender it to Him. More important than me knowing the “where,” “when,” “why,” and “how” of it all, God wanted my heart to be available and for me to serve Him where He had me. I’d always sensed travel of some kind might be in my future, but working regularly from home didn’t feel like it could leave a significant impact on the world. I didn’t figure it out overnight. I would still say I don’t have it “all figured out.” Do we ever? From the time I graduated until now, God has given me a fuller idea of what He wants me to pursue in this season, but it took time. And I’m sure He will continue to show me what He wants me to do. I’ve found that when we stop fighting God to hold on to a life we imagine for ourselves, God opens our hands to receive the life He has planned for us. In case you thought Jeremiah was the only one, look at the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19 (ESV): “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” If God calls us to go somewhere, we go. But even if He calls us to stay, loving God, loving others, and sharing His Word starts exactly where we are. Intersecting Faith & Life: God doesn’t want us to be afraid. Like Jeremiah, we too are called by God. He knew us before we were formed in the womb (Ps. 139:13-16). He consecrated us and appointed us for His plan (2 Timothy 1:9, Ephesians 2:10). He has a purpose for our lives! We also may argue with God and say, “I am only [fill-in-the-blank].” But God often doesn’t call whom the world expects (1 Corinthians 1:26-29). “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8 ESV). He gave Samson strength (Judges 16). He gave Moses words (Exodus 4:10-12). He gives us exactly what we need for the task He has placed before us. When we say, “I am only [fill-in-the-blank],” we are looking at what’s in front of us. But we often forget that while we can’t always see the full picture, God can. God’s “all sufficiency” (2 Corinthians 9:8) isn’t dependent on where we live, our age, or any of our circumstances. We are merely called to be obedient and allow the Lord to use us where we are. What is the “only” you are worried about today? Give it to Jesus. “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me” (2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV). Allow that to soak in. His grace is sufficient to equip us for every good work that He has called us to. You don’t need to have the next ten years figured out; you just need to trust that the God Who holds your future is with you in this one. Pray with me: Dear Lord, thank You for calling me and knowing me since before I was born. Forgive me for the times I let my "only" excuses stop me from trusting You. I trust that Your grace is sufficient for the season I am in right now. Wherever I am, help me to be obedient to Your call and trust Your timing. In Jesus’s Name, Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In this episode of 2 Minute Disciple, host Nick Oyler leads a contemplative devotional through Matthew 6:14–18 — Jesus' striking teachings on forgiveness and fasting and what they reveal about the hidden life. Both practices share a common thread: they are meant to be genuine, inward, and unperformed.
Thank you for listening. Take a look at the sermon notes of this message on the church website: https://www.gatewayfranklin.com/sermonsTo find out more about Gateway Franklin Church, visit us at gatewayfranklin.com or join us online each week at gatewayfranklin.online.
I share how to break free from fear, unhealthy patterns, and limiting beliefs to step into healing, purpose, and spiritual freedom. Drawing from Every Kind of Free, this episode explores faith, identity, personal growth, and trusting God with your next chapter.Every Kind of Free is NOW AVAILABLE!Kindle: https://amzn.to/4b1Q2ZNPaperback: https://amzn.to/4bACRz7Hardcover: https://amzn.to/4bJ8xm7 Audible: https://amzn.to/3OeBCgb
DOING LIFE: Daily Devotions For Finding Peace in Stressful Times
Everytime you feel unimportant, god might just use you.
If you keep having the same conflict with different people, it's not just them, it might be your beliefs. Your past experiences shape how you see trust, failure, loyalty, and those beliefs are either building or breaking your relationships. God wants to help you upgrade your lens so you stop repeating old patterns and start walking in relational wisdom. Stick around—this might be the conversation that finally explains why some relationships drain you… and how to stop letting them. Podcast Episode 2078: There's a Battle Over Relationships in Your Life - God Wants to Help You | don't miss this! Listen to more episodes of the Lance Wallnau Show at lancewallnau.com/podcast
Send us Fan MailWe challenge the quiet norm of “sucky sex” in marriage and lay out why God designs sex for intimacy, connection, and real enjoyment without shame. We share our own healing journey from trauma, body insecurity, and bad beliefs to a healthier sex life built on safety, communication, and mutual pleasure.nn• why many married couples settle for frustration and distancen• God's design for sex: procreation, intimacy and enjoymentn• renewing the mind after sexual abuse, shame and negative beliefsn• body confidence through pregnancy changes, cancer and surgery recoveryn• facing trauma triggers and retraining the body to experience safe touchn• rejecting duty-only sex and choosing mutual pleasure and curiosityn• communication that gathers “intel” without ego or judgmentn• why sexlessness fuels disconnection, resentment and temptationn• practical tools: talk outside the bedroom, build emotional intimacy daily, remove shame, protect boundaries and create healthy rhythmsnnWe want to hear from you on this one. Comment where your relationship is and questions that you might have. We'll do our best to get to those at some point.nSend us an email. If you're a social media person, tag us, let us know.GET THE BETTER MARRIAGE BOOTCAMP HERE:Better Marriage Bootcamp (kenandtabatha.com)Better Marriage 90-Day Devotional:90 Day Better Marriage Devotional - Ken and Tabatha (square.site)DOWNLOAD THE FAMILY MEETING OUTLINE HERE ⬇️https://www.kenandtabatha.com/pl/2148103888
Have you encountered a personal moment when you felt God's guidance through your uncertainty? During times of hardships have you struggled with trusting that your future hope is secure in heaven? In our heartfelt conversation, special guest Tamara Hester Battaglia, shares her "God is Writing Your Story in the Moments of Life" God story which inspired her to write her devotional book "Written in Heaven", a book that Kathie Lee Gifford describes as a virtual kaleidoscope of humanity and showcases 40 powerful stories of unwavering faith and triumph from today's leading female voices in Christian music, ministry, film, and literature, including Roma Downey, Karen Kingsbury, Priscilla Shirer, Sheila Walsh, and Lisa Robertson. Tamara is an author and has over two decades of experiences as a flight attendant traveling the world sharing Jesus. She is from Pasadena, Texas and currently resides in Franklin, Tennessee with her husband, Joe. She enjoys precious moments with her husband, children and four grandchildren. Tamara also shares her personal story included in her book about her infertility disappointments and diagnosis of incompetent cervix and how God provided her with one miracle after another. Enjoy listening to Tamara's inspiring God glorifying story.
Have you encountered a personal moment when you felt God's guidance through your uncertainty? During times of hardships have you struggled with trusting that your future hope is secure in heaven? In our heartfelt conversation, special guest Tamara Hester Battaglia, shares her "God is Writing Your Story in the Moments of Life" God story which inspired her to write her devotional book "Written in Heaven", a book that Kathie Lee Gifford describes as a virtual kaleidoscope of humanity and showcases 40 powerful stories of unwavering faith and triumph from today's leading female voices in Christian music, ministry, film, and literature, including Roma Downey, Karen Kingsbury, Priscilla Shirer, Sheila Walsh, and Lisa Robertson. Tamara is an author and has over two decades of experiences as a flight attendant traveling the world sharing Jesus. She is from Pasadena, Texas and currently resides in Franklin, Tennessee with her husband, Joe. She enjoys precious moments with her husband, children and four grandchildren. Tamara also shares her personal story included in her book about... Be sure to catch the full episode on April 1st!
Pastor Endean teaches that a biblical worldview is essential, since all thoughts and actions flow from one's view of reality. He contrasts a God-centered, scriptural worldview with humanistic and pantheistic ideas that reject divine truth and lead to moral confusion, illustrating this with the harmful outcomes of Paul Ehrlich's population theories. He emphasizes that truth is absolute and grounded in God's revelation, urging believers to reject relativism, renew their minds through Scripture, and guard against worldly thinking while living with Christ-centered wisdom and readiness to defend their faith.
God did not intend for us to live and just survive; He provided life for us to overcome and thrive! To go beyond surviving and be able to thrive, we must know what the Word of God says and live by it and let it shape our thinking. The Word of God opens each of us up to relationship with God, and relationship helps us line up to how He thinks. He will intervene and bless us even when it looks impossible, because He is the God of the impossible! We have to keep seeking God through His Word, which is living and active and powerful! Jesus reconciles us with God, and we become one with God! God's Word say we have the mind of Christ, and that means that we can think like Jesus! God's Word says we will do greater things than Jesus did, so we can call things that are not yet and make them happen, because we are powerful in God and He wants to give us victory! *Suzanne Osinska gave her testimony of her encounter with God at Healing Rooms, and how God healed her of excruciating pain from a herniated disc in her back. Praise the Lord!
Friendship is not optional in the Christian life—it’s essential. Lauren Fletcher highlights how God designs relationships to encourage, support, and help us grow in Christ. By sharing our struggles, confessing sin, and offering genuine care, we reflect God’s love to one another. True friendships sharpen us, lift us up in times of need, and create a community where His love is experienced and expressed. Highlights Encouragement: Friends help us persevere and remind us of God’s truth (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Spiritual Growth: “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend” (Proverbs 27:17). Support in Hardship: Care packages, prayer, and practical help show Christ’s love in action. Confession & Healing: Sharing struggles removes shame and brings healing (James 5:16; Galatians 6:1-2). Together We Thrive: Ecclesiastes reminds us that life is better lived with others; multiple relationships strengthen resilience (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12). Love in Action: By loving friends authentically, God’s love is manifested in us. Intersecting Faith & Life God did not intend for us to walk through life alone. Whether it’s encouragement in a hard season, spiritual accountability, or practical support, friends reflect His heart and make the Christian journey sustainable and joyful. Cultivating and investing in these relationships honors God and enriches our daily walk. This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: We Need Each Other By Lauren Fletcher Bible Reading: “Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.” - 1 John 4:11-12 I have been blessed with many close friends. It wasn’t always that way, though. There was a time when I didn’t share much about myself with others. I hid the “not pretty” part of my life in a figurative coat closet, with the bad memories boxed up on the top shelf. There were things I had learned that you do not talk about. All of this changed when I started a new season of small groups at church. Within safe spaces, I learned I could share my life with others and be fully accepted. This surprised me. I realized the closet had to be opened, and the memories, one by one, taken off the shelf, boxes opened, and shared with others. What I learned was that friendship is a blessing and absolutely essential to the Christian life. In friendship, we encourage each other and help each other grow. I have a friend with a gift for encouragement. I call her sometimes for a “pep talk.” She has a great way of encouraging me in the Lord and reminding me of the truth. I can come with my difficult circumstances and prayer requests and leave with a sense of hope. I am so grateful to her. In 1 Thessalonians, it says, “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). It is so important to encourage each other because life can get difficult. We need each other’s help to keep going. As friends, we also help each other grow. In Proverbs, it says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend” (Proverbs 27:17). We make each other better in Christ. We help each other in times of need. As I joined a women’s group at my church, I saw this firsthand. Meeting around the fire, I’d hear women share their stories and what they were going through. Each person was met with support and love. Sometimes, we’d support each other through care packages, times of prayer, or even meal trains. This showed me how to love others in their hard seasons, how to be there for them. 1 John 4:11-12 says, “Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us.” As we put our love into action, we show each other the love of Christ. We confess our sins to each other. I remember in college, I was struggling with sin. At some point, I confessed this sin to a friend of mine, who listened, supported me, and compassionately shared helpful scripture with me. What happened was I no longer felt alone in things or hidden in shame. In Galatians 6, Paul says, “Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:1-2). What I found in sharing these hard things with friends is that we begin to fight this battle together—I am no longer by myself in it. It also removes the shame that I feel, which causes me to hide sin. Coming into the light, my friends have been waiting and ready to help. In James, it says, “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results” (James 5:16). When we stop hiding our sin from each other and from God, He can heal us. Intersecting Faith & Life: As I’ve continued to learn about friendship, I've found that friends help pick each other up. In Ecclesiastes, it says, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). The writer continues, “A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12). I pray that you find these things to be true in your friendships as well. God did not create us to be alone or to walk out this life by ourselves. I pray that God will bring you the right people at the right time and strengthen the relationships you already have. Lord, thank You for friendship. Thank You that you intended for us to walk through life with others. Thank You for the good plans You have for our lives (Jeremiah 29:11). I pray that You would bless my life with abundant relationships that reflect Your heart. Show me how to be a good friend. In Jesus’s name, Amen. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Ever looked at the social media posts of a friend and think, “Wow, they live a pretty good life.” Someone has pointed out we should never compare someone else’s highlight reel, to our blooper reel. We live out our blooper reel everyday, don’t we? We see the flubs, the fumbles, the gaffes, and the goofs up close. But today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out that God sees beyond the blooper, to the future. Today, a good example of how God can rewrite our story. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever looked at the social media posts of a friend and think, “Wow, they live a pretty good life.” Someone has pointed out we should never compare someone else’s highlight reel, to our blooper reel. We live out our blooper reel everyday, don’t we? We see the flubs, the fumbles, the gaffes, and the goofs up close. But today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out that God sees beyond the blooper, to the future. Today, a good example of how God can rewrite our story. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pastor Randy Bradley
Standing firm in your faith isn’t always applauded — sometimes it costs you deeply. In this episode, we talk about the pain of facing opposition from those closest to us and the tension between defending our beliefs and guarding our hearts. When family members mock or reject our faith, the temptation is to respond with anger, silence, or distance. But the gospel calls us to something higher: compassion instead of offense, prayer instead of retaliation, and trust instead of control. The truth? No one is too far gone for God’s reach — not your skeptical friend, not your resistant sibling, not even the person who hurt you most. What We Discuss Why opposition from family hurts differently The danger of treating loved ones like arguments to win How bitterness quietly builds walls Why salvation isn’t powered by persuasion What Epistle to the Romans 5 teaches about God’s initiating love How to pray effectively for those who reject your faith This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: No One Is Too Far Gone for God’s Reach By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading:“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” - Romans 5:8, NASB My convictions were just too strong to stay silent on that Facebook post. I knew it was a controversial topic, but I didn’t think my own family would turn on me and lash out because of my beliefs. As a Christian, there are times when I need to stand up for what is right, and just like countless times before, I was left to stand alone to be ridiculed for my faith in God and His Holy Word… I just didn’t think my own brother would be the one to hurt me the most with his callous words. Often, the wounds cut deeper when it is those closest to us who wield the sword at us. In that moment, instead of finding the comfort and understanding of my family, the harsh reality that my brother was a lost soul began to set in. I wanted to become angry and lash back, but my heart was much too heavy at the thought that he would spend eternity in hell. When we meet opposition regarding sharing our faith, it is very easy to become offended at those who mock or push back; perhaps our first instinct is to turn our backs on them or set it in our heart to never discuss the Lord around them ever again. Instead of bitterness or offense towards those who might not agree with our beliefs, we should have compassion on them because, at one time, before Christ saved us, we too were enemies of God and lost. Even if our unsaved friends and family hurt us, these situations should truly drive us to our knees to pray for our lost loved ones. We have to ask the Lord to help us keep our hearts from resentment or offense that would drive a wedge between us or even tempt us to burn a bridge. The Lord is so faithful to fill us up with love for the unlovable. We, too, were the unlovable ones, but God lavished His love upon the cross. Romans 5 is a powerful chapter in the book of Romans, and in verse 8, we are reminded of God’s great love for us: “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8, NASB) Intersecting Faith & Life: God loved us so much that He gave His only Son to die for sinners. Not only should this truth cause us to rejoice in the gift of our own salvation, but it should fill our hearts with so much hope that God’s mercy is available to those whom we love. We have to rest in the Lord’s sovereignty and remember that His ways are higher; No amount of persuasive, articulate words of man’s wisdom can save them - the power of salvation is found in the gospel We have to be careful not to look at our lost loved ones as an argument to win, but a soul that the Lord is more than able to save and rescue from sin and death. If we personally cannot reach them with our words of truth, we can pray that the Lord may bring someone else who could share the gospel with them. Do you long for your family and friends to know God as you do? Does it often feel impossible to get through to them regarding the things of God? Do not lose heart, and continue to pray for their eyes to be opened. Ask the Lord to begin to prepare their heart to receive His grace to believe that Jesus is the only way to true forgiveness and eternal life. God loves them so much because He created them. Let us have hope that those who seem unreachable can be reached by God Almighty. His grace draws sinners to repentance, and if you are a believer, you are living proof of that. No one is too far gone for His arm to rescue! Further Reading: 1 John 4:9-10 Ephesians 1:6-8 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Hello and welcome to the Faith First Podcast where we bring you messages and conversations of just how to walk your faith out in this world. I'm Jonathan Gouthier, your host and a Pastor here at First Church in Torrington CT and in this episode, I am joined by our Lead Pastor Steve Darr to talk about Life and how it is God's Sacred Gift.In this episode, you'll discover:Why is life so sacred to God?How is life diminished in our society today?What do we say to those that hold to a transgender ideology?Why must we seek to be reconciled back to God? And what does that mean?The value of human life is not determined by societal norms or personal opinions, it is established by our Creator. From conception to eternity, every person is fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God.We try to provide some very practical ways to step out in your faith and we pray it is beneficial to you who are listening. If you are new to the Faith First Podcast, I ask you to hit the subscribe button to be notified when our next episode will launch. Until next time, view each person as being made in the image of God faith first.
Philippians 2:5 (NIV) “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:”Rely is the PROVING ground for trust in a marriage—and thePREREQUISITE for commitment in dating.Someone else CANNOT complete you. ONLY Jesus can.Colossians 2:8–10 (NLT) “Don't let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ. For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.”The more you turn to Jesus to meet your DEEPEST NEEDS, the more capable you'll be to meet your spouse's ACTUAL NEEDS.Genesis 2:18 (NIV) “The Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.'”DATING:Be careful not to RUSH too quickly to RELY on someone before you KNOW and TRUST them.If you don't HEAL from your past, it's really hard to have HEALTH in your future.How do you know, while dating, if you can rely on someone in marriage?Watch carefully the other person's RECIPROCITY (GIVE/TAKE).What you experience in dating is the CEILING for marriage.Matthew 19:5 (NIV) “‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.'”“Woman without her man is nothing.”“Woman, without her, man is nothing.”“Woman without her man, is nothing.”MARRIED:DISTANCE between spouses is where SATAN likes to set up shop.In your marriage, you will always make BETTER decisions TOGETHER than you do apart.Proverbs 15:22 (NIV) “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”Romans 12:4-5 Just as there are many parts to our bodies, so it is with Christ's body. We are all parts of it, and it takes every one of us to make it complete, for we each have different work to do. So we belong to each other, and each needs all the others.You cannot live the LIFE God wants for you if you live it INDEPENDENT of others.Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NLT) “A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”
Nathan Harrison teaches on February 15, 2026.
Episode Timeline:0:00 - Intro0:28 - The Redemptive Power of Conversation2:54 - Redefining Trauma in Modern Culture3:17 - Advertisement4:16 - Redefining Trauma (Continued)8:57 - The Partner's Perspective: Getting Unstuck13:36 - Practical Tools: The Three Circles of Self-Care17:10 - The Human Need to Be "Seen"24:13 - Post-Traumatic Growth: A Spiritual Journey29:16 - Processing vs. Resolving Trauma33:37 - Conclusion: Finding Transformation in the Valley To learn more about the Sex, God, & Chaos team, click the link below:www.sexgodchaos.comLooking for help? Book an appointment with LifeWorks Counseling today:www.lifeworks.msYou can purchase your copy of Sex, God, & Chaos here:www.amazon.comLink for our sponsor, Hope Quest:https://hopequestgroup.orgLink for our sponsor, The Samson Society:https://www.samsonsociety.com/
Life constantly tempts us to measure contentment by what we lack—but Scripture tells a different story. This Christian devotional explores how God is more than enough, even in a culture driven by comparison, accumulation, and the constant pursuit of “more.” Rooted in Psalm 4:7, this devotion invites believers to rediscover joy, peace, and lasting satisfaction found not in possessions, but in a secure relationship with God. Highlights Contentment grows when we focus on what God provides, not what we lack God’s joy surpasses material abundance and worldly success Gratitude reshapes our perspective in seasons of comparison True security comes from God, not possessions or financial stability Spiritual blessings in Christ are eternal and unshakeable God’s promises bring peace even in uncertain circumstances When we have God, we truly have more than enough Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: More Than Enough By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading:“You have put gladness in my heart,More than when their grain and new wine abound.” (Psalm 4:7 NASB) I remember the day we were driving home from a store, and my teenage daughter was complaining to me about all that she didn’t have—a new car like the one being driven by her 16-year-old friend who just got her driver’s license, expansive homes her friends lived in with more rooms than their families needed, the latest electronic gadgets, brand-name clothing, the highest-priced handbags. Weary of constantly being reminded of what we didn’t have that her friends’ families did, I finally blew! “Do you realize what we do have?” I snapped. “You have a roof over your head, and these days, that should be enough!” Apparently, my words struck a chord with her. Her face fell, and she sadly told me of another one of her friends who was losing her home due to her parents’ job loss. Immediately, my tone softened as I realized my daughter had already been convicted by her own words. We prayed for the family that was losing their hom,e and then I silently prayed for wisdom to turn that topic into a teaching moment. “You know, Sweetie,” I told her softly, as I continued to drive, “a lot of people around us are losing their homes. That’s why it’s important for us to not only think about what we have and be grateful for it, but to focus on what we have that we will never lose.” She looked at me, puzzled, for a moment. And then she got it. We immediately began to recount all that we have that can never be taken from us: The love we have for each other in our family The memories we’ve had in our three-bedroom condo (and the small two-bedroom home we owned prior to that) The unconditional love of God (Romans 5:8) The gift of our salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9) A promised mansion in Eternity (John 14:2-3) I realized that day that my daughter is not the only one who often wishes she had more. It’s easy for me, at times, to look at what others have and be envious. It’s natural for me to sometimes wish I had a little more money to indulge in my desires. But so often I forget all I do have…and that it is more than enough. So often, we go through life looking at what others have and wondering when our ship will come in. Then we remember we have a God who owns the cattle on a thousand hills (Psalm 50:10), a God who has gone to prepare a place for us and who will come again and receive us to Himself so that where He is, we will be—forever (John 14:3). In Psalm 4, David begins his song by asking God for relief from his distress. But then he must have remembered what he had, because he finished his song with a perspective of joy: “You have put joy in my heart,More than when their grain and new wine are abundant.In peace I will both lie down and sleep,For You alone, Lord, have me dwell in safety” (verses 7-8). In The Message translation, verse 7 reads: “I have God’s more-than-enough, more joy in one ordinary day than they get in all their shopping sprees.” That sounds like a song I should be singing every day that I begin to forget my blessings and start longing for more. Intersecting Faith & Life: God is our true source of security in an insecure world…and He is the Only One who satisfies in a culture where we can never seem to get enough. When we have Him—along with His promises for provision, protection, and peace—we have “more than enough.” Can you draw strength from knowing that you have God’s more-than-enough, even if at times it doesn’t look like quite enough? Thank Him today for all that you have, as well as for the blessings that you don’t yet see. The Bible says if we belong to Christ, God has blessed us in the heavenly realm with every spiritual blessing in Christ (Ephesians 1:3). And if we “share in His sufferings” we are “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17). Joint heirs with God! Think about that. We are heirs of all that is His. Now that’s an inheritance. That’s a future. And that is more than enough. Further Reading:Ephesians 1:3-14 For a daily awareness of all you have in your relationship with Christ, see Cindi’s book, The New Loneliness Devotional: 50 Days to a Closer Connection with God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Being Financially Fatigued is what happens when you been grinding with no strategy. You're tired, not because you lazy, but because you been carrying money stress the wrong way. In the Market and in Life GOD never intended for you to struggle nonstop just to survive. Even HE rested on the Seventh Day. When you Overtrade, Overwork and Overreact you drain your spirit and your account. That is what happens when you move without structure patience and obedience. Horizon Trust - Keep More. Retire BIGGER