Podcasts about lord not

"Where your treasure is, there also will your heart be." Matthew 6:21 Join John and Victor in the Lenten journey on the 7 Deadly Sins this week as they discuss the sin of Greed. Our possessions, time, and talents are gifts from the Lord and how often we allow our attachments to these things to control us and rob us of our joy and living a life of freedom with the Lord. Hoard not the things of the world, but virtue, prayer, time with Him. How do we combat greed? Charity. Generosity. Seeing everything as a gift. "The greedy man is really not rich, but poor. He does not control his money but is controlled by it. He does not possess his wealth but is possessed by it. He may have many things, yet for him he has all too little." ~ St. Anthony of Padua Scripture passages to pray with: -1 Timothy 6:10 -Matthew 6:19-21 -Luke 12:16-34 In this episode: -Letting go of fear and grasping for possessions and turning in trust to the Lord -Not letting our possessions possess us -"Everything is disappointing except the Redemptive Love of our Lord." ~ Archbishop Fulton Sheen -No one can serve two masters...you cannot serve God and money (Matthew 6:24) BECOME A PARTNER IN THE PEW! www.donorbox.org/pew START A MEN'S GROUP IN YOUR PARISH! www.justaguyinthepew.com JOIN US IN ITALY! rb.gy/ue800 DOWNLOADS Get a copy of my new eBook, “12 Ways Guys Can Get Closer to Jesus”! JUSTAGUYINTHEPEW.COM/EBOOK

Good morning, Five Minute Families. This is our first devotional in 2024. As many are doing, we are taking this time to reflect back on last year and look forward to the new one. In years past, we have made different suggestions for families to have intentional discussions surrounding the newness concept. Last year we discussed standards, goals, resolutions, and new opportunities. The year before we discussed possibilities and planning by beginning with the end in mind, and in our first year with the Five Minute Family we suggested coming up with a family word of the year. Personally for our own family, some of these ideas worked better than others through the years, depending on the ages and needs of our children at the time. As I was driving to be with family this holiday, I heard a podcast by Mel Robbins. She explained six questions to ask yourself as you step into the new year. The first three are focused on reviewing the past year, and the next three steps are focused on the coming year. To give that concept the Five Minute Family spin (with a bonus), let's discuss the first three past-year reflective questions she poses.First, what were your family highlights from last year? Remembering the good and lovely things that happened are important, even if the year had many sad or difficult moments. 1 Corinthians 11:2 encourages us to remember the wonderful gifts from our Lord: “Now I praise you because you remember me in everything.” Just as Mel Robbins encouraged, don't only rely on your own memory, pull out the camera roll and calendar to give you and your loved ones a fuller picture of the year. Second question: What were your hardest moments this year as a family? Psalm 56:8 points out that God has put our tears in a bottle. As one author put it “Our sorrows matter to God.” Reflecting on those hard times allows us to remember how they affected us and is important, especially when you get to question number three.What did you learn about yourselves this past year? There may be a bit more self-focus on this question as you discuss this as a family, but try to keep in mind the family identity you are cultivating and how the individual's changes impact the family identity as well as how the family identity may have been fundamentally altered. What does that mean moving forward as a Christ-centered family? 1 Peter 4:10 puts it this way, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another.”In May 2021 we discussed the “stop start continue” concept as it could be applied to the marital relationship. Mel Robbins used that concept as her second set of three questions - the forward-looking questions. Here, we want to prompt your thoughts to get your minds focused as a family on what you can collectively do.First up in the moving forward category, what do you need to STOP doing as a family? Acts 3:19-20a states, “Therefore, repent and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped out, that seasons of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord…” Not all of the actions you think of may be sinful, but there are actions you need to stop as a family because they may not be the most edifying. Sinful actions such a complaining or gossiping need to go, of course, but what about the actions of always calling out what someone else is doing wrong? I know I am guilty of that. As mom, it is my job to correct and instruct my children, but are there some situations in which I need to hold my tongue and let them see the need for a change in their behavior themselves?Second in the moving forward category is, what do you need to continue doing? Are you already intentional AT LEAST five strategic moments a day to stay connected as a family? If you are reading God's word daily, that's another thing to keep continuing doing. Do you already build one another up with your words and actions?And, finally, in the moving forward, almost resolution-esque category, what do you...

Here's a cry of faith that many can identify with! As usual David speaks about his enemies and struggles and distresses he is going through, and yet at the same time he is reminded of the GOODNESS and TENDER MERCIES and KINDNESS of the LORD and how though God can remember ALL HIS GOODNESS in the past, David asks the LORD NOT to REMEMBER his SINS, TRANSGRESSIONS, and INIQUITIES! Sometimes it is our enemy who causes the problem, but sometimes its ourselves and sin in our lives. Thank God that He PARDONS our SINS and DELIVERS US from ALL KINDS OF SITUATIONS in life! To watch the video from today's service, just click on this link! The post Psalm 25 – A Prayer for Deliverance and Forgiveness! appeared first on Living Rock Church.

A. GENERAL TEACHING ON ABORTION 1. The Scriptures imply that life begins at conception. Ps. 139:13-16 Thine eyes have seen my unformed substance; and in the book they were all written, the days that were ordained for me, when as yet there was not one of them. Jer. 1:5 Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I have appointed you a prophet to the nations. 2. The Scriptures indicate that all children are a gift from the Lord (Not just those that are “wanted” or physically perfect). Ps.127:3 Behold, children are a gift of the Lord; the fruit of the womb is a reward. Exod. 4:11 And the Lord said to him, “Who has made man's mouth? Or who makes him dumb or deaf, or seeing or blind? Is it not I, the Lord? 3. In light of the above statements a biblical conclusion is that abortion is murder. James. 2:11 …(if you) commit murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. B. SPECIFIC TEACHING ON ABORTION The Hebrew word translated “miscarriage” in this verse usually refers in the Old Testament to a live birth. Thus, there was a fine for a premature live birth, but the death penalty was invoked for “further injury”, which was the death of the prematurely-born baby. Ex. 21:22-25 And if men struggle with each other and strike a woman with child so that she has a miscarriage, yet there is no further injury, he shall surely be fined…. But if there is any further injury, then you shall appoint as a penalty, life for life. THE CONTEXT - BEING A USEFUL VESSEL 2 Timothy 2:14–21 14 Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers. 15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. 16 But avoid irreverent babble, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness, 17 and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, 18 who have swerved from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already happened. They are upsetting the faith of some. 19 But God's firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.” 20 Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. 21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work. THE TEXT – BEING A SERVANT OF THE LORD 2 Timothy 2:22–26 (ESV) — 22 So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 23 Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. 24 And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, 25 correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.

How can I be so sure? Because God's word says it.Isaiah 34:16 Search and read the scroll of the LORD: Not one of these will go missing, not one will lack her mate, because He has ordered it by His mouth, and He will gather them by His Spirit“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD.” – Proverbs 18:22“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” – Mark 11:24“Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” – Genesis 2:18“A wife of noble character is her husband's crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.” – Proverbs 12:4To work with me one on one: https://forms.gle/sJgn1GM13eADa6jK7

Shalom fam. Part of the standard being raised by Almighty God (in the name of Jesus Christ in spirit, truth, and love) is actually Holy Spirit Fire and his armor of Light glory to Jesus Christ!  For it is written, "Isaiah 59:19 KJV: So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him. (biblehub.com), see this scripture found in Song of Solomon 8 via the lens of revelation via Holy Spirit regarding Jesus the Groom & the Bride of Christ glory to Jesus...the mystery of oneness! For it is written: John 17:21 that all of them may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I am in You. May they also be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me. (biblehub.com) Remember: Ephesians 4:1 As a prisoner in the Lord, then, I urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received: (biblehub.com); Ephesians 4:2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, (biblehub.com); Ephesians 4:3 and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (biblehub.com) **Remember Holy Spirit confirming the covenant of Peace from our homebase given in 2020 of Isaiah 54, Matthew 24 along with Ephesians 6 concerning the gospel of peace and also the counsel found in Ezra, Haggai, Amos and many other places regarding our future in Christ Jesus for this end time generation on earth as in heaven for such a time as this and beyond? :D Remember Holy Spirit emphasizing the correlation found in scripture between his covenant of holy matrimony and his peace covenant! Regarding the bride of Christ, remember the betrothal we see in Hosea 2 cross referenced with many other scriptures speaks to the unity by faith concerning Jesus and the Bride of Christ...the mystery of oneness, it is written Ephesians 4:4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; (biblehub.com) Recall the prayer of Jesus, recall the prophecies of the Bride in Hosea 2 and other places in scripture, see even with the examples below that speak to a clinging of sorts by faith, love, and Holy Spirit power! In the context of holy matrimony, a "clinging" takes place as written in Genesis: Genesis 2:24 For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh. (biblehub.com).  Paul begins for us the conversation of this profound mystery concerning Jesus Christ and the Bride of Christ as written: Ephesians 5:31 "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh." (biblehub.com); Ephesians 5:32 This mystery is profound, but I am speaking about Christ and the church. (biblehub.com). Look at Holy Spirit bringing to our remembrance our discovery of the rare word Harmos glory to Jesus used in Hebrews 4:12?!? :D G719 - harmos - Strong's Greek Lexicon (nkjv) (blueletterbible.org) recall its meaning and context which speaks of betrothal, marriage which led us to G718 ἁρμόζω - Strong's Greek Lexicon (studybible.info) Harmozo another rare word in scripture! The bride in Song of Solomon is referring to this mystery of oneness in Christ with regard to holy matrimony, spiritual warfare *remember the revelation of the word Eirene and its context regarding the peace covenant, marriage covenant, and gospel of peace seen in Isaiah 54:5, Ephesians 6, Song of Solomon, and part of the new thing Yahweh is doing regarding his daughters of faith seed of Sarah we've discussed in times past and the prophecy in Jeremiah 31 as written: Jeremiah 31:22 How long will you wander, O faithless daughter? For the LORD has created a new thing in the land--a woman will shelter a man." (biblehub.com); 1 Peter 3:6 just as Sarah obeyed Abraham and called him lord. And you are her children if you do what is right and refuse to give way to fear. (biblehub.com)-remember faith by love in Galatians as written Galatians 5:6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. All that matters is faith, expressed through love. (biblehub.com); love covers a multitude of sins and casts out fear in the name of Jesus! :D 1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment. The one who fears has not been perfected in love. (biblehub.com) and so much glory to Jesus remember Holy Spirit giving us 616 and confirmation of the promise regarding kingdom marriage that He has been in the process of "perfecting" his ordained kingdom marriages that shall spring forth in due time and season all glory to Jesus Christ! Please refer to Strong's #616 - ἀποκυέω - Old & New Testament Greek Lexical Dictionary - StudyLight.org He has caused us by his grace to abide in his love, grace, rest, and peace concerning his Word of promise! "perfectivize" you see in this word speaks to safe delivery of his promise concerning marriage promise given all the other scriptures cross referenced with the above most notably in Isaiah and James for example where it is written: Isaiah 66:9 Shall I bring a baby to the point of birth and not deliver it?" says the LORD. "Or will I who deliver close the womb?" says your God. (biblehub.com); James 1:18 Parallel: Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. (biblehub.com) along with Isaiah 46:10 I declare the end from the beginning, and ancient times from what is still to come. I say, 'My purpose will stand, and all My good pleasure I will accomplish.' (biblehub.com) and Jeremiah 1:12 "You have observed correctly," said the LORD, "for I am watching over My word to accomplish it." (biblehub.com); Isaiah 43:13 Even from eternity I am He, and none can deliver out of My hand. When I act, who can reverse it?" (biblehub.com); Mark 10:9 Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." (biblehub.com) which is a distinction being made for such a time as this Yahweh's joining versus the traditions of man concerning marriage: natural marriage of flesh we see with Zipporah offering insight via the living word of God as written: Exodus 4:25 But Zipporah took a flint knife, cut off her son's foreskin, and touched it to Moses' feet. "Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me," she said. (biblehub.com) versus a joining of holy matrimony we see in Genesis 2, Hosea 2, Song of Solomon 8, Zechariah 4:6 So he said to me, "This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the LORD of Hosts. (biblehub.com)   and Isaiah as written: Isaiah 34:16 Search and read the scroll of the LORD: Not one of these will go missing, not one will lack her mate, because He has ordered it by His mouth, and He will gather them by His Spirit. (biblehub.com). In the context of the bride of Christ regarding the peace covenant, marriage covenant, gospel of peace, and spiritual warfare please refer back to: G1515 - eirēnē - Strong's Greek Lexicon (kjv) (blueletterbible.org) Jesus our Groom is the Prince of Peace and the Lord of Host of Heavens Armies Isaiah 54:5, Ephesians 6, Song of Solomon 8, and Jeremiah 31:22 glory to Jesus! So, praise God, regarding these ordained supernatural kingdom marriages working as one by faith expressed through love as prescribed in Galatians (Freedom in Christ) Galatians 5:6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. All that matters is faith, expressed through love. (biblehub.com) shall be sent out two by two as established by scripture ( Isaiah 54:9 "For to Me this is like the days of Noah, when I swore that the waters of Noah would never again cover the earth. So I have sworn that I will not be angry with you or rebuke you. (biblehub.com); Matthew 24:37 As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be at the coming of the Son of Man. (biblehub.com); Genesis 7:15 They came to Noah to enter the ark, two by two of every creature with the breath of life. (biblehub.com); Mark 6:7 Parallel: And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits; (biblehub.com) and mighty exploits will be part of their supernatural kingdom marriage ministry in Jesus Christ on earth for such a time as this and beyond for his glory, will, and kingdom come on earth as in heaven making ready a generation for the return of our Groom, Jesus Christ, end time prophecies regarding harvest, and the love, gentleness, power, humility, grace, wisdom, righteousness, counsel, knowledge, revelation of Jesus Christ Daniel references via prophecy in the book of Daniel for example! They as one in Jesus Christ will be living, flowing, and functioning in and from the life and spirit found by faith in love, grace, peace, compassion, and humility, righteousness and holiness found in Jesus Christ concerning the mystery of oneness Paul speaks of in Ephesians 4 glory to Jesus! Now concerning the gifts of healing as part of the mighty exploits glory to Jesus!!!! Notice gadal, H1431 - gāḏal - Strong's Hebrew Lexicon (kjv) (blueletterbible.org) in the context of twisting, binding together looking at (magnify) which brings to mind greater context looking at Ecclesiastes 4:12  Ecclesiastes 4:12 And though one may be overpowered, two can resist. Moreover, a cord of three strands is not quickly broken. (biblehub.com); Hosea 11Hosea 11:4 I led them with cords of kindness, with ropes of love; I lifted the yoke from their necks and bent down to feed them. (biblehub.com) Ephesians 4:3 and with diligence to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (biblehub.com) again segway into correlation and significance of covenant of peace, holy matrimony covenant, and spiritual warfare aformentioned glory to Jesus! :D Look at Matthew 18:18 glory to Jesus as a point of reference! Matthew 18:18 Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. (biblehub.com) See the mighty work of Jesus as he fastened himself to them to bring about healing, restoration, miracles, signs, and wonders for his glory and kingdom come on earth as in heaven; which, deals with a kindling; which, speaks to his armor of light and Holy Spirit Fire glory to Jesus! Luke 12:49 Parallel: I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled? (biblehub.com) G680 - haptomai - Strong's Greek Lexicon (nkjv) (blueletterbible.org) reveals to us glory to Jesus, both a fastening (clinging, joining) as well as kindling as in a kindling of FIRE!!!!!! :D LOL OHHHH GLORY TO JESUS!!! Check it out for yourselves with Holy Spirit people! :D Behold people: Matthew 8 (NKJV) - Then Jesus put out [His] (blueletterbible.org); Matthew 8 (NKJV) - So He touched her hand, (blueletterbible.org); Behold the powerful place of intercession he is leading us into glory to Jesus look people! Isaiah 53:4 Surely He took on our infirmities and carried our sorrows; yet we considered Him stricken by God, struck down and afflicted. (biblehub.com) didn't he say some of his will be delivers coming out of Obadiah 1:21, doesn't the word of God say as Christ is so are we in this world glory to Jesus. Doesn't the word say we will do what Jesus did and greater concerning his works, miracles, signs, and wonders which absolutely involve intercession by faith through love! Aren't we a royal priesthood under Jesus Christ the High Priest? Look at freedom in Christ coming out of Galatians 5 concerning faith and love people! Haven't we received a great commission and calling to set captives free, shine the light of Christ in spirt and truth!  Luke 4:18 "The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed, (biblehub.com); 1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. (biblehub.com)! Song of Solomon 8:6 Set me as a seal over your heart, as a seal upon your arm. For love is as strong as death, its jealousy as unrelenting as Sheol. Its sparks are fiery flames, the fiercest blaze of all. (biblehub.com) Song of Solomon 8:7 Mighty waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If a man were to give all the wealth of his house for love, his offer would be utterly scorned. (biblehub.com) 1 John 4:8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. (biblehub.com) Hebrews 12:29 "For our God is a consuming fire." (biblehub.com) Yahweh in the name of Jesus in spirit and truth shall cause us to live, behold, experience the life and spirit of John 14:12 on earth as in heaven as written: John 14:12 Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I am doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. (biblehub.com). Scriptural References: H5869 - ʿayin - Strong's Hebrew Lexicon (kjv) (blueletterbible.org) H1431 - gāḏal - Strong's Hebrew Lexicon (kjv) (blueletterbible.org) G680 - haptomai - Strong's Greek Lexicon (nkjv) (blueletterbible.org) *Healing plagues, severe afflictions, severe sufferings, debilitating diseases in Jesus name! :D Strong's Greek: 3148. μάστιξ (mastix) -- a whip, scourge (biblehub.com) Romans 13:12 The night is nearly over; the day has drawn near. So let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. (biblehub.com) Daniel 7:10 A river of fire was flowing, coming out from His presence. Thousands upon thousands attended Him, and myriads upon myriads stood before Him. The court was convened, and the books were opened. (biblehub.com) Luke 12:49 I have come to ignite a fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! (biblehub.com) Isaiah 4:4 when the Lord has washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion and cleansed the bloodstains from the heart of Jerusalem by a spirit of judgment and a spirit of fire. (biblehub.com) Revelation 11:3 And I will empower my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth." (biblehub.com) Revelation 11:4 These witnesses are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of the earth. (biblehub.com) Revelation 11:5 If anyone wants to harm them, fire proceeds from their mouths and devours their enemies. In this way, anyone who wants to harm them must be killed. (biblehub.com) Colossians 3:3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. (biblehub.com) Isaiah 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you go through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched; the flames will not set you ablaze. (biblehub.com) Amos 5:24 But let justice roll on like a river, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream. (biblehub.com) Isaiah 66:12 For this is what the LORD says: "I will extend peace to her like a river, and the wealth of nations like a flowing stream; you will nurse and be carried on her arm, and bounced upon her knees. (biblehub.com) Experienced technical interruptions while in prayer during this episode, my apologies we will try again! Praise & Worship in spirit & truth: Hallelujah!!!! :D Glory to Jesus!!!! Worthy | Live | Elevation Worship - YouTube

!! Trigger Warning: Eating Disorders Are Discussed !! Hey everyone! On this week's episode, Brooke and her amazing guest, Melina Laree, discuss how anyone can have "God-confidence;" that is, complete confidence in the One who created us so intricately and uniquely. So often, our bodies are idolized in our culture today, but in this episode, Brooke and Mel break down how we can look at ourselves in a way that glorifies and honors the Lord-- NOT the world. Worship isn't just singing songs at Church, it's how you live and serve God with your body in your day-to-day life. Mel's perspective on worshiping God with your body through spiritual health & physical health is so inspiring, and you will not regret giving this episode a listen!! "I hope that you were encouraged and inspired by our convo today, and if you enjoyed it, please subscribe/follow and leave a rating and/or review. It helps me out so much!" Love you guys, - Brooke things mentioned / socials: My Email- i.am.good.wbu.podcast@gmail.com IGWBU Podcast's Instagram- i.am.good.wbu.podcast Melina's Instagram: melinalaree Melina's TikTok: melinalaree Music Used- “Good Pace” by Thomas Gresen on SoundCloud (YOU SHOULD DEF GIVE HIM A FOLLOW ON SOUNDCLOUD/SPOTIFY !!)

by John Cortright For more information visit lhim.org Romans 12:11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 1. not lagging behind in diligence 2. fervent in spirit 3. serve the Lord Not lagging behind in diligence “Not lagging behind” = “Do not be slothful” (ESV), “not procrastinating” (NEV). This word is translated as “lazy” in Matthew Continue Reading

In these interesting days, how are you going with being content when things keep changing? Restrictions tighten and restrictions ease. We are unsure what tomorrow will look like. Memories and grief surfacing When the Coronavirus started impacting on Australia there was a few days where I struggled as grief surfaced from our daughter's cancer journey. The continual hand santising was the trigger, a familiar practice during her 15 months of receiving chemotherapy. And now when we are again on 'high alert' and restrictions are tightening, I am reminded of when we as a family were on 'high alert' or hypervigilant in relation to Victoria getting a high temperature (over 38 degrees) and having to go to hospital for at least three days. These emergency hospital visits happened many times and caused much anxiety and turmoil for each member of our family. Warning: unashamed promo - if you want to read more about this part of our story, and God's faithfulness throughout it, my book is available at wendyrobinson.com.au What does it take to be content? The current situation and memories of the past had me thinking about contentedness. How does one get to that state of contentedness regardless of what is going on in their lives or around them? The Apostle Paul seemed to have found that place, as he explains to the Philippians... But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:10-13 NKJV There is so much to meditate on in this passage of scripture. Let's not forget where Paul was when he wrote this letter - prison, with the exact location unknown. He himself was undergoing hardship, however he was still able to maintain his focus on Christ and on others. Keep focussed on the goal Paul was focussed on a goal, regardless of his circumstances. He explains this to Philippians earlier in his letter. I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:12-14 NLT Remember, Paul is in prison when he wrote this letter. Plenty of restrictions and unknowns in his life at that time! But he keeps his focus on Christ and his mission. John Maxwell says, This letter proves that even while the apostle Paul sat in a foul Roman prison, he never lost his passion, his sense of mission, his sense of direction, or his command of the situation. While Paul remained an inmate of Rome, he couldn’t plant new churches as he felt called to do. Instead, he sat in chains, attached to a Praetorian guard, awaiting a trial that he thought could end his life (1:21). Yet even in the midst of all of this, he never abandoned his role of leadership. NKJV Maxwell Leadership Bible Page 1470) Rejoice in the Lord Not only is Paul focussed on the mission despite the apparent hindrances, he is encouraging others to maintain their joy. Always be joyful in the Lord! I’ll say it again: Be joyful! Let everyone know how considerate you are. The Lord is near. Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. Then God’s peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 GW A supernatural joy that only comes from knowing the Lord and trusting that He is in control. Remember the scripture, Nehemiah 8:10 The joy of the Lord will be your strength. Nehemiah 8:10 NIV Why was Paul content? So how is it that Paul could experience that joy and continue to exhort others, in the midst of this trial? Perhaps it had something to do with his first meeting with Jesus, which we read about in Acts 9. During those days, Saul, full of angry threats and rage, wanted to murder the disciples of the Lord Jesus. So he went to ask the high priest and requested a letter of authorization he could take to the Jewish leaders in Damascus, requesting their cooperation in finding and arresting any who were followers of the Way. Saul wanted to capture all of the believers he found, both men and women, and drag them as prisoners back to Jerusalem. So he obtained the authorization and left for Damascus. Just outside the city, a brilliant light flashing from heaven suddenly exploded all around him. Falling to the ground, he heard a booming voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” The men accompanying Saul were stunned and speechless, for they heard a heavenly voice but could see no one. Saul replied, “Who are you, Lord?” “I am Jesus, the Victorious, the one you are persecuting. Now, get up and go into the city, where you will be told what you are to do.” Saul stood to his feet, and even though his eyes were open he could see nothing—he was blind. So the men had to take him by the hand and lead him into Damascus. For three days he didn’t eat or drink and couldn’t see a thing. Acts 9:1-9 TPT Well Jesus certainly got Saul's attention. One moment Saul was on a mission to persecute the followers of Jesus. Then suddenly he has an interaction with Jesus and finds himself completely blind and having to be led by the men with him. Saul was in a very vulnerable position, and yet that encounter with Jesus was so powerful, he did exactly what Jesus told him to do. God the Mastermind Around this same time Jesus was preparing the way for Saul, to become one of his 'chosen vessels'. This preparation involved a disciple, Ananais. For completeness, and because it is a wonderful example of how God brings restoration, purpose (and perhaps contentment?) into our lives, we will read Acts 9:10-19. Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.” Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.” And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized. So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus. Acts 9:10-19 NKJV Knowing Christ We know from the Bible that Saul, now Paul, went on to spread the Gospel throughout the known world at that time, experiencing many hardships including prison and shipwreck, but always staying focussed on the goal. Paul had met Jesus and experienced the power of forgiveness. He had been transformed by Jesus and knew His power and authority. Paul had been filled with the Holy Spirit and he knew what his mission was. These Christ centred experiences enabled Paul to be content, no matter what. He knew Jesus intimately and trusted Him completely. I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. Philippians 4:12-13 The Message So how about us? Are we content? Is our relationship with Jesus so intimate that we are content regardless of what is happening around us? This is a challenging question. And the answer probably involves a journey, some movement from where we are today, to a closer relationship with Jesus. How to do we do that? There are many ways, but perhaps the first step is talking to Jesus, asking Him to show you what your next step is. So why not ask Him now. To find out more visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

New research shows the majority of born-again Christians in America don't feel a responsibility to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others. How can this be, and how do we help restore the sense of urgency all Christians should have to evangelize? I'll talk it over with John Sorensen, president and CEO of Evangelism Explosion International. Plus: How do we make inroads with the gospel in a culture that has rejected the Lord? Not with more marketing techniques, but by returning to authentic Christianity. Rev. Melvin Tinker joins me to talk about it and his book, “A Lost God in a Lost World.” That’s all on Thursday's JANET MEFFERD TODAY.

Why is waiting for anything so hard? We struggle to wait in line at the grocery store, in traffic, in the fast food lane – just about everywhere! This morning, my hope is that we are encouraged by the Word of God to wait patiently and expectantly on the Lord…NOT on circumstances clearing up, NOT on trials disappearing, but intentionally and actively waiting on the Lord in the midst of these things. This morning, we will look at the benefits of waiting patiently, and we will also look at WHY it is so difficult to wait on the Lord consistently. Preached: March 29 2020

How will we win our friends, family, and neighbors for the Lord? Not by telling them what they need to do things differently in their lives or tell them what they are doing wrong, But by the doing what Jesus said to do, Love others as well as you love yourself! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thomas-perez/support

Achan compromised by: - Taking what was considered cursed into his house- Stealing what belongs to the Lord- Not giving to God and keeping what belongs to God with us for our own benefit.----more---- We tend to compromise not only in money, even in other type of giving: - Giving our time to the work of God, do not hold on to what belongs to God- Giving our talents to God's work, do not hold on to what belongs to God- Giving our children to the work of God, do not hold on to what belongs to God

"Mum, are you listening to me?" "Well, I do know you were talking about ......, but I might have missed some of what you said." To be honest, I probably missed quite a bit of what they said because when they came to speak to me I continued on with whatever I was doing and only half-listened to what they were saying to me! Too task focused. I apologise for my inattentiveness, but our child still has that sense that Mum doesn't always listen to me. Thankfully our Heavenly Father is not like that. He, in His majestically mysterious way, is available 24/7 for each one of us. In Jeremiah, the Lord says, Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. Jeremiah 29:12 NKJV God listening to us does not necessarily translate into Him doing what we ask. Just like as a parent we listen to our children's requests, but we don't always fulfill them as we often have a bigger picture in mind. Our Heavenly Father is the same. Our job is to stick with Him, wait and trust. But me, I'm not giving up. I'm sticking around to see what God will do. I'm waiting for God to make things right. I'm counting on God to listen to me. Micah 7:7 The Message Trust. Trust that His promises are true, despite what we see. How difficult that can be sometimes. We need to remind ourselves of the good things our God has done - starting with our salvation. This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. Through the LORD's mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness, "The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "Therefore I hope in Him!" The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him, It is good that one should hope and wait quietly For the salvation of the LORD. Lamentations 3:21-26 NKJV Wait patiently upon the LORD - Not always an easy thing to do. But as we go through trial after trial, hopefully we start to hone that skill of waiting patiently. As in each of those trials we see more and more of our God's faithfulness so our trust levels increase. We come to a place of knowing without a doubt that He listens to us because He loves us, and He has a plan for us. For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

“Let Every Thing That Hath Breath Praise the Lord” Not only is the book of Psalms the longest book of the Bible, but it also captures a wide range of human experience. There are songs of sorrow and pleading, gratitude and joy, and wisdom and trust. Studying the Psalms invites us to listen to music… Continue Reading

April 24, 2016 Seek and Read from the Book of the Lord: Judgment and Salvation Isaiah 34-35 Pastor Tony Felich  ----more---- Isaiah 34:8  For the LORD has a day of vengeance, a year of recompense for the cause of Zion. [9] And the streams of Edom shall be turned into pitch, and her soil into sulfur; her land shall become burning pitch. [10] Night and day it shall not be quenched; its smoke shall go up forever. From generation to generation it shall lie waste; none shall pass through it forever and ever. [11] But the hawk and the porcupine shall possess it, the owl and the raven shall dwell in it. He shall stretch the line of confusion over it, and the plumb line of emptiness. [12] Its nobles—there is no one there to call it a kingdom, and all its princes shall be nothing. [13] Thorns shall grow over its strongholds, nettles and thistles in its fortresses. It shall be the haunt of jackals, an abode for ostriches. [14] And wild animals shall meet with hyenas; the wild goat shall cry to his fellow; indeed, there the night bird settles and finds for herself a resting place. [15] There the owl nests and lays and hatches and gathers her young in her shadow; indeed, there the hawks are gathered, each one with her mate. [16] Seek and read from the book of the LORD: Not one of these shall be missing; none shall be without her mate. For the mouth of the LORD has commanded, and his Spirit has gathered them. [17] He has cast the lot for them; his hand has portioned it out to them with the line; they shall possess it forever; from generation to generation they shall dwell in it.             There is a high price to pay for rejecting or ignoring God’s Word and a high reward for believing and applying it.   God will judge the rebellious “nations” (34:1-15)   Do NOT ignore or reject God’s Word (34:16-17)   God will save His people (35:1-10)

Facing Fear: Financial Collapse Psalm 37 Trust the Lord Not the Alternatives Psalm 37:3 Trust the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.   Live Beyond Not Within   Trust Boosters

We are to bring EVERYTHING before the Lord - NOT just things we need help with. A true relationship involves every facet of our life!

The Bible is inspired AND preserved by the Lord - Not just in the originals. This lesson will speak to you and increase your faith in the Bible.