Podcasts about main points

What is holiness? To be holy is to be consecrated, set apart, and dedicated to God. For some, this seems daunting. We can be intimidated by the word holy or the knowledge that God wants us to be holy. After all, we know our failings and shortcomings all too well.Main Points:1. But we must see that holiness is a good thing. Everything God calls us to pursue is for our good. Holiness is not outward actions and behaviors achieved in our strength. Becoming holy is a pursuit entered through the grace of God and developed with the strength and power of the Holy Spirit. In other words, you cannot become holy apart from God's help. He does not call us to become something without enabling us to do it.2. How can we get back on the track of pursuing holiness? To pursue holiness we actively seek and strive for a life that is set apart for God. It's a lifestyle characterized by moral purity, righteousness, and devotion to Him. It involves aligning our thoughts, attitudes, actions, and lifestyles with the principles and teachings of God's Word.3. Pursuing holiness involves separating ourselves from sinful behaviors, attitudes, and influences. It means turning away from anything that contradicts God's character and choosing to live a life that honors Him. Today's Scripture Verses:Hebrews 12:14 - “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.”2 Corinthians 7:1 - “Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”1 Peter 1:14-15 - “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16 for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

If you fully understand the gospel and what Jesus has done for us, you comprehend that He was not just executed 2,000 years ago by the Romans. You recognize that He willingly laid down his life as a sacrifice for our sins. Jesus died for us. He took our place. With his death on the cross, He paid the penalty for our sins, so we would not have to.Main Points:1. If God were not just, there would be no demand for his Son to suffer and die. And if God were not loving, there would be no willingness for his Son to suffer and die. But God is both just and loving. His love is willing to meet the demands of his justice.2. There are no small sins. Here's why: because God is not small. The seriousness of the insult rises with the dignity of the one insulted. The Creator of the universe is infinitely worthy of respect, admiration, and loyalty.3. Since God is just, he does not sweep these sins under the rug of the universe. He feels a holy wrath against them. They deserve to be punished, and he has made this clear: “For the wages of sin is death.” (Romans 6:23). To not punish us would be unjust. But here's what is truly amazing…Jesus accepts God's wrath on our behalf. Jesus doesn't cancel God's wrath, he absorbs it. He diverts is from us to himself. Today's Scripture Verses:Romans 5:6-8 - “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”2 Corinthians 5:21 - “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”1 Peter 2:24 - “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

One of the needs many people possess is joy. While joy is a fruit of the spirit and a benefit to the lives of believers, it seems to be lacking in our lives. As I look around I see so many who are discouraged. They feel beaten down by the pressures of life. Some Christians have fallen into a place of negativity and criticism toward others. Their general disposition is not one that radiates with God's joy.Main Points:1. The scripture is saying not only can we have joy, but we can also be full of joy. Imagine that! Imagine your life being full of joy. Imagine people noticing how joyful you are. Imagine how blessed you would be and how much your joy would encourage and uplift others.2. This joy is received only received one way. We must be in God's presence. Could this be the reason many Christians have no joy? Is it because they do not spend time in God's presence? It is because they are not going to the source of joy, God himself?3. In God's presence, the things that would steal our joy seem to fade way. There is a fullness and completeness we receive by being in God's presence. There is satisfaction and contentment that is obtained when we spend time with God.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 16:11 - “…In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”Nehemiah 8:10 - “…the joy of the Lord is your strength.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Looking at the night sky with the radiance of the moon and stars, David understood what it all revealed. He said, “The heavens declare the glory of God.” The brightness and the brilliance of the skies tell us about the beauty and the majesty of God. Only someone so powerful and so creative could design what we see each night.Main Points:1. Regardless of where we live on earth, the voice of God speaks to us through nature, revealing His existence, power, and glory.2. Because of this general revelation, we cannot say God has hidden from us. He reveals His existence every day. 3. With this revelation, we have a choice of what to do with it. Seeing the beauty, majesty, and power of God, how will we respond? Many respond with indifference, but I pray you'll see the power of God and respond by acknowledging His greatness.Today's Scripture Verses:Isaiah 40:26 - “Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name.”Psalm 19:1-4 - “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.”Romans 1:20 - “For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”Psalm 147:4 - “He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Being humans, we like to be independent. We want to go our own way. We'll drive lost, trying to figure out how to get to a destination, refusing to stop and ask for directions. Sadly, many journey through life, never arriving at the destination they hoped to see. Our eternity is too important. We can't hope to arrive there someday. We can't rely on our own instincts to get us to Heaven. I've heard people say, “I'm trying to be a good person. I think I'll be alright in the end.”Main Points:1. Since Heaven is a city built by God, we must let Him inform us as to how we can get there. Thankfully, in His Word, He has made it clear. In the Bible, we are informed there is only one road to Heaven, not many roads, and certainly not just any road of our choosing. 2. Where you are wanting to go, there is only one way to get there. Salvation and forgiveness of our sins is only found in Jesus. It's only through Jesus that we have access to the Father. It's only through Jesus that we find the doorway to Heaven.3. The Bible doesn't leave us with vague, unclear directions. The path is marked out for us and its crystal clear. There is only one road to Heaven. It is found through faith in Jesus Christ, as we make Him our Savior and Lord. Today's Scripture Verses:Acts 4:12 - "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”1 John 5:13 - “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Memories are important, especially when it comes to remembering what God has done for us. If you are like me, you tend to have selective memory. When facing a hardship or a difficult season, I'm laser-focused on what I am going through at the moment. It can be hard to remember God's past faithfulness.Main Points:1. As you look back over your life and your journey as a follower of Jesus, I'm confident you can see evidence of God's faithfulness. There were time when God protected you, provided for you, healed you, and encouraged you. There were times when God gave you strength, wisdom, peace, guidance, and joy. 2. I want to invite you to take a walk down memory lane. Perhaps even grab a piece of paper and a pen to write down the memories you have of God's faithfulness. 3. Over the course of your life people come and go. You met people years ago that now you have forgotten. But God is not someone who comes and goes. God is constant. He is faithful. He has promised to be with us always, even to the end of the age. He does not want to be forgotten. Because of His faithfulness, He is worthy of your praise and worship.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 77:11-12 - "I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds.”Psalm 103:2-5 - “Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.”Psalm 78:10-11 - “They did not keep God's covenant and refused to live by his law. They forgot what he had done, the wonders he had shown them.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

In fact, your story is one of your greatest ministry tools. I meet people who feel they have nothing to offer the Lord. In their minds, they feel incapable of serving in some ministry. Yet, every one of us has a story. It's a God story. It's a story of how we met Jesus, the circumstances of your salvation, and how Jesus has changed your life.Main Points:1. If you have never sat down and written out your spiritual testimony in chronological order when you do, you'll be amazed at how God has been working in your life.  No testimony is boring.  Your story is unique and fascinating, and whenever you tell it, it will be relevant, and potentially life-changing for the listener.2. Your story is simply an account of how God has changed your life.  If Jesus is your Lord and Savior, then surely He has done miraculous things for you.  People are looking for evidence that God exists and that He is personally involved in people's lives.  You can't make God appear on the spot to prove His existence, but you can certainly point straight to Him by talking about how He has worked in your life.3. It's true the Holy Spirit moves us and leads us in our conversations about Christ.  But it's our responsibility to use what the Lord gives us in the best possible way.  We prepare for important meetings – we need to prepare to give an account of our faith as well.Today's Scripture Verses:“And with great power, the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all.” (Acts 4:33 ESV)Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

What is Jesus doing today? He is building His church. We hear stories about churches closing and increasing statistics of people who won't belong to a church community, yet you and I need to be assured of one great truth: Jesus will build His church.Main Points:1.  Recently, I've been hearing this phrase more and more. “I love Jesus, but I don't love the church.” I'm also hearing a lot of people say, “You know, you don't have to go to church to go to Heaven, you just have to believe in Jesus.  If this is your sentiment, let me give you something to consider. The church has a divine creation.  Some say, “The church was man's idea.”  No, that's not biblical.  The church was God's idea.2. Let me ask an important question. How can we love Jesus, and not love what He loves? If we have placed our faith in Jesus, how can we not be a part of what He is doing on the earth? How can we not join together with other Christ-followers to fulfill Jesus's mission? 3. If you are a believer in Jesus, recommit to being a part of His church. Let's love what Jesus loves and let's be a part of the church He is building.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 16:18 - “…I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”Ephesians 5:25 - “…Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”Acts 20:28 Jesus “bought the church with His own blood,”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Perhaps the lack of silence is due to our inability to find stillness and solitude. Yet, in my experience, it's in the silence that we can hear the voice of God. Sometimes we expect God to show up and speak up in loud and dramatic ways. He certainly can do that, but in my life, I've heard God speak mostly in the quiet times. Main Points:1.  Isn't life loud? It seems everywhere we go there is noise. Every store and restaurant has music playing. Throughout the day, we have the sound of people and traffic. Our phones constantly alert us of text messages, emails, and notifications. We don't have much silence in our lives. 2. Have you heard the whisper of God? Are you enjoying God in the silence? If life has become loud and noisy, and if you are overwhelmed and distracted, you might not be hearing the voice of God.3. In today's culture there is always somewhere to go and something to do. I encourage you today to make time to get quiet with God and listen for His whisper. This whisper is a reminder of God's constant presence, calling us to listen and be attuned to His guidance.Today's Scripture Verses:1 Kings 19:11-12 - “The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.”Psalm 46:10 - “Be still, and know that I am God.”Psalm 37:7 - “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Physical hunger is not your only craving. You also possess a spiritual hunger. This appetite also cries out to be fed. Both types of hunger were created by God. Physical hunger can only be satisfied by food. Spiritual hunger can only be satisfied by God.Main Points:1.  You have a longing in your soul for God. Many feel the yearning but do not recognize that it is spiritual in nature. They feel a sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction with life. So many people are thinking, “There must be something more to life. What am I missing?”2. In an attempt to satisfy their hunger, they go on a search. Attempts are made to gratify this spiritual emptiness with temporary, earthly things, only to be left with greater hunger.3. So, let me give you the good news. Only Jesus can satisfy our spiritual hunger. Why? Because God designed us in such a way. Only God can fill the void in our souls. A relationship with Jesus is so nourishing and so satisfying that we will wonder why we neglected Him for so long. We will wonder why we bought into the deception of this world it could offer what we needed.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 107:9 - “For He satisfies the longing soul, And fills the hungry soul with goodness.”Matthew 5:6 - “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

That sense of powerlessness is something we all experience. The truth is, apart from Christ, we are powerless. In and of ourselves, we cannot be who God wants us to be? Apart from Christ, we are weak, without strength, and unable to move forward.Main Points:1.  Have you ever felt powerless? Like your batteries were on empty? Like you couldn't go on? Did you feel as if you didn't have the strength you needed or the ability to face a challenge? Maybe you felt you had reached your limit and that you simply couldn't take the stress anymore. Perhaps you felt powerless to change, to stop, to grow, to adapt, or to become what God desires of your life.2. Oh, how we need the Lord in our lives. Oh, how you and I need Jesus. It's in Him we find our strength. It's in Him we become strong. It's only through His power that you and I can be an overcomer.3. Every relationship we have exists because we intentionally invested in the other person. The same is true with Christ. Commit to daily investing time with Jesus. It's through our knowledge of Him that we gain the power we need.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Peter 1:3 - “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.”Romans 8:11 - “The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Welcome to episode 196 of Grasp the Bible. In this episode, we continue our study in the Book of Psalms, covering chapter 49, a Psalm of Wisdom. Today, we will cover:- The wisdom shared in this psalm is universal, proverbial, and problematic.- The wisdom shared demonstrates that humanity has a problem, they have been ransomed by God for a price they can't pay.- The wisdom shared shows the negative, meaning it is folly to be confident in mans ability to save themselves.- True wisdom is faithful confidence in the Lord, who paid our ransom.Key takeaways:· The Main Point of this Psalm is to show “The Fatal Folly of Foolish Confidence.”· Christ followers can walk in the “Firm Foundation of Faithful Confidence.”Quotable:· “Why would the psalmist phrase it as ransom if no one can pay it?”· “The only one holding us ransom can also pay our ransom”· “The only one who can pay an eternal punishment is the one who is eternal.”· “The only one who can make us right is the one who is right.”Application:· You can only walk in Faithful confidence if you have faithful confidence.· Because of Christ:o We can now be confident in our righteousness.o We can now confidently enter Holy places.· Now we can walk in “Blessed Assurance.”Connect with us:Web site: https://springbaptist.orgFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/SBCKleinCampus (Klein Campus)https://www.facebook.com/SpringBaptist (Spring Campus)Need us to pray for you? Submit your prayer request to: https://springbaptist.org/prayer/If you haven't already done so, please leave us a rating and review in your podcast provider.

Note: The first minute of this sermon was not recorded. Main Point. Caring for the members of God's household. Driving Question. How do we care for God's household? 1. Words of care (1–2) 1 Jn 3:14–15. 14 Exodus 22:22-24. Deuteronomy 10:18. 2. Widows cared for (3–16) Three marks of the true widow. 1. True widows are without family care (4–5, 8). 2. True widows are godly (5, 9–10). 3. True widows are of a certain age (9). Takeaways. The church is now a family and we care for our own. The church is to care for widows and this pleases God. The church is to be filled with families willing to care for their parents. The church is to be filled with godly women. Widows, you are loved by God and your church.

Our financial health is not the only thing that requires an investment, our spiritual growth requires one too. No, not a financial investment, though God may ask that of us, an investment of time, effort, passion, and heart. God will ask for an investment of sacrifice, faithfulness, and commitment.  He will ask us to invest in the lives of others with love, support, and encouragement. God will speak to us about investing deeper into our own discipleship with Christ.Main Points:1. Let me ask you, “What investment are you making in your own spiritual growth?” Don't rush past this question. Take a minute and think about it. What investment are you making in your own spiritual growth? To get a return, you have to make an investment.2. Growth does not happen automatically. In fact, when something is not healthy we often say it has “stunted growth,” meaning something is hindering and prohibiting healthy growth.3. What can you do today to begin investing in your spiritual growth? How can you begin pursuing a closer relationship with Jesus? What steps of faith can you take? Where do you need more investment?Today's Scripture Verses:Mark 10:28-31 - “Peter spoke up, “We have left everything to follow you!”  “Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—along with persecutions—and in the age to come eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”Deuteronomy 4:29 - “But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.”James 4:8 - “Come close to God, and God will come close to you.”Psalm 37:4 - “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Prayer is an adventure in trust. We put our needs into the hands of an almighty God, who has the power to meet our needs according to His will. What will God do? We don't know, but we do know that what God does is right. His answer and His actions may not make sense to our finite minds and limited understanding, but the will and purpose of God are always correct.Main Points:1. When we have a need, it's normal to be anxious, to worry, and to wonder what will happen. This is our human response to uncertainty. Yet, when we pray we choose to trust. When we pray we choose to believe God. 2. What an adventure it is to wait on God and see what He will do. The waiting is not always pleasant, but the longer we serve Jesus, the more confidence we have in the waiting. We know God is up to something. We don't see it yet, but we are confident testimony of His faithfulness is coming soon.3. Faith in God is a choice. It's a decision to believe and to trust that He is working all things for your good, according to His purpose.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Corinthians 4:18 - “So we don't look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.” Hebrews 11:1 - “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”Mark 9:21-24 - “Jesus asked the boy's father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” “‘If you can'?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”Proverbs 3:5 - “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

As Christians, the Bible describes us as children of God. As children, we are learning how to walk in Christ. We sometimes stumble and fall. God, with his grace and mercy, is patient and helps us get up and get going again. Yet, sometimes other believers aren't as gracious.Main Points:1. Sadly, sometimes the fallen are shunned, excluded, and look down upon. Sometimes the fallen Christian is gossiped about and criticized.2 The fallen one needs restoration. The goal is always to restore the believer who has been overcome by sin. They are not to be ignored. They are not to be excused. They are not to be destroyed. The goal is always restoration. 3. If you know a fellow believer who is struggling or who has fallen. With gentleness and humility reach out to them in an effort to restore them to the faith and the path of righteousness. While you are doing so, remember that any of us are capable of falling.Today's Scripture Verses:Galatians 6:1 - “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.”Galatians 6:2 - "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”John 13-34-45 - “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

That is what we live for: to experience the glory of God, to reflect it, to bring it to the world around us, not for our own sake but for the praise of His glory and honor.Main Points:1. The glory of God refers to his beauty, majesty, purity, and power. It speaks of the greatness and wonder of God. 2. In His love for us, God created us to experience himself. He created us to experience his glory. We get to experience God's beauty, power, love, and mercy.3. Not only do we experience His glory, but we were also created to reflect it. Like the moon reflects the light and radiance of the son, we are to reflect the glory of God to others around us. People should see and notice there is something different about our lives.Today's Scripture Verses:Isaiah 43:7 - “Bring all who claim me as their God, for I have made them for my glory. It was I who created them.”2 Corinthians 4:6 - “For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ.”Ephesians 2:8-9 - “For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”Matthew 5:16 - “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Main Point. Faithful pastors are essential for the spiritual health of the church. Driving Question. What is God's pastor to be? 1. He must be an example (v. 12) 2. He must be wholeheartedly devoted (vv. 13–14) 3. He must be ever watchful (vv. 15–16) Application. 1. Identify and point out the spiritual growth in your brothers and sisters. 2. Examine yourself. Takeaways. The pastor is to be different in all areas of life. The pastor must be in proximity and accessible. The pastor must live a life that is aligned with his teaching. The pastor must be wholly devoted. The pastor must bring a Christ centered, God-glorifying focus to the church. The congregation must be wholly willing to consider the word taught and the life lived by their pastors.

Jesus left the glory of Heaven to come to earth and take on humanity. He came with one purpose which was to satisfy the justice of God. Jesus would come and die for us. He would become our substitute. We wouldn't have to die for our sins because Jesus would die for us. He would shed his own lifeblood on the cross as payment for our sins.Main Points:1. Sin must be atoned for by death. Why? Because sin violates the righteous laws of God. God cannot wink at sin. He cannot overlook it. Sin must be accounted for and justice must be served. 2. In the Old Testament, God set up a system of animal sacrifices to atone for sin. It was a temporary solution until Jesus, the Messiah, would come. 3. The New Testament book of Hebrews teaches us that through the coming of Jesus, God put away the old system of animal sacrifices. Why? Because the final perfect lamb of God has come that takes away the sins of the world.Today's Scripture Verses:Hebrews 9:22 - “…without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.”John 1:29 - "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.”1 John 1:7 - “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.”Ephesians 2:13 - “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.”Revelation 1:5 - “…To him who loves us, and washed us from our sins by his blood.”Romans 10:13 - “Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

All through the Scripture, we see that our God is a God of comfort! The comfort of God is available to us when we are experiencing different kinds of loss and grief.Main Points:1. It's okay to grieve. It's okay to mourn. God created us with the ability to express these emotions. I've ministered to Christians who felt they weren't supposed to mourn or that if they were grieving they were failing God. It's okay to grieve. It's okay to weep. God wants you to experience his comfort during your time of mourning.2. I have found that God draws especially close to me in the tough times of life.  When my heart is breaking, I find God's presence near me.3. If you are mourning, if you are grieving, lean into Jesus. Press into him through prayer and worship. Meditate on the Word of God. Reach out to a friend who can join you in your mourning.  At this moment, I believe you'll experience the blessing of God's comfort.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 5:4 - “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”Psalm 23:4 - “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”Psalm 119:50 - “My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.”Psalm 34:18 - “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”Quick Links:Subscribe to The 5 Minute Discipleship NewsletterDonate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

We discover that God cares about the heart. God wants us to love Him, value Him, and esteem Him above all things. When we serve the Lord out of sincere hearts, wanting to please Him, and wanting to give Him the glory, he rewards us only a loving Heavenly Father can.Main Points:1. In Jesus' great Sermon on the Mount he speaks to the heart of what we do for God, not just what we do for God. We learn that it's not just the act of serving God that pleases the Lord, but our motives matter to Him as well.2. I believe this is one of the things that distinguishes Christianity from every other world religion. You see every world religion is about what you do. It's about your work. Salvation is earned by your diligence to hard work and keeping rules. 3. In Christianity, it's not that Jesus doesn't care what we do, but he is more interested in those intentions that are hidden from human eyes. He's after our hearts. Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 6:1 - “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.”Matthew 5:16 - “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”Psalm 26:2 - “Test me, Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Welcome to Day 2594 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2589 – Wisdom Nuggets – Old Testament Orientation – Staying Loyal to God: Poetry, Theodicy, Salvation, and Afterlife – Psalm 119:9-16 Putnam Church Message – 03/23/2025 Sermon Series: Old Testament Orientation Message 11: Staying Loyal to God: Poetry, Theodicy, Salvation, Afterlife   Last week, we continued our Old Testament Orientation series and explored the Books of Wisdom: Knowing God and Being Loyal to Him. These books are my favorite genre in the Old Testament. We explored from an ancient Israelite worldview. This week, we will investigate the concept of Staying Loyal to God as we consider Poetry, Theodicy (understanding the ways of God), Salvation, and Afterlife. These concepts allow us to view the Old Testament from an Ancient Israelite worldview. Opening Prayer Heavenly Father, Creator of all things, we humbly gather in Your presence today to open our hearts and minds to the richness of Your Word. God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, You have spoken to us through stories, poems, wisdom, and prophecy, all revealing Your character and guiding us into deeper loyalty toward You. Help us today, O Lord, to understand the poetry that reflects our deepest feelings, to wrestle honestly with God's ways with questions of suffering and justice, to grasp the nature of Salvation as You have revealed it through Your faithful servants, and to trust in Your promises regarding life beyond death. Enlighten us by Your Spirit. We humbly come before You to dive deeply into Your timeless truths. Speak to us clearly, gracious God, and mold our lives according to Your Word. In Your Holy Name, we pray, Amen. Introduction Today, we gather to explore poetry, theodicy (the ways of God), what is Salvation, and the afterlife from the eyes and hearts of our ancient Israelite brothers and sisters. More than 50% of the Old Testament is written in Hebrew poetry, and yet it does not reveal itself in that manner using our English translations. Imagine yourselves living in a time when poetry was the primary language of your heart's deepest cries,/ when wrestling with God's justice was your constant reality,/ when Salvation hinged on loyalty rather than ritual,/ and when the afterlife was a shadowy unknown./ Let us journey through these truths, with Psalm 119:9-16 as our anchor. Psalm 119:9-16 (NLT) “How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. I have tried hard to find you—don't let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. I praise you, O Lord; teach me your decrees. I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us. I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches. I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word.” Main Points with Object Lessons, Stories, and Illustrations Poetry: Speaking Honestly to God Ancient Israelites used poetry as a heartfelt dialogue with Yahweh, full of honesty and passion. Like David in Psalm 69, their words weren't always polite but always genuine. ...

We are being transformed, not just improved, not just reformed. The scripture says we are being transformed. We are being made new. We are being transformed into his image. In lifestyle and character, we are to be in the image of Jesus. This is why Ephesians 5:1 says we are to “imitate God in everything we do because we are his dear children.”Main Points:1. Without realizing it, every day, we who believe in Jesus are leaving an impression of Him on others. Not with brushes and paint, but with attitudes, actions, and relationships.2. All of us are being transformed. We are not yet complete. We are not like Jesus in every area of our lives. We are in process. We are not who we used to be and we are not yet who we are going to be.3. If we want to be like Jesus, we must spend time with Him. How else can we discover what He is like? In what other way could we learn his character? There is no other way.  Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 5:1-2 - “Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 - “We all . . . are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”John 15:4 - “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

You can outlive your life.  Today you are writing the chapters that will be told of you, long after you are gone.  There will be a service for you one day, in which eulogies, memories, and stories will be told.  The life you live today determines what story lives on.Main Points:1. Over the years I have met a lot of Christians who started well.  You could say they're on fire for God.  They love God.  They want to learn, they want to grow, and they want to be used by God.  But somewhere along the line as years go by they get distracted or they get sidelined or they get tripped up by somebody else.  Some people do not finish life well, the way God intended for them to.2. I have one story I want told.  If there is anything of my life that remains, I want it to be that Loren Hicks was faithful.  He was faithful to his God, he was faithful to his family, he was faithful to his friends, and he was faithful to his calling.  I started well, but I want to finish well.3. I want to stand before Jesus Christ one day and hear him say, “You did it!  You did a good job!  Well done good and faithful servant.”  I don't want to just start well, and just to grow a little bit spiritually.  I want you to hear God say, “Good job!  Well done!  You finished the race that I put you on earth to do.”   Today's Scripture Verses:Deuteronomy 34:10-12 - “Since then, no prophet has risen in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face, who did all those signs and wonders the Lord sent him to do in Egypt—to Pharaoh and to all his officials and to his whole land. For no one has ever shown the mighty power or performed the awesome deeds that Moses did in the sight of all Israel.”Hebrews 11:24-26 - “By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh's daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Join Rabbi Joey Rosenfeld as he guides us through the world and major works of Kabbalah, Hasidic masters, and Jewish philosophy, shedding light on the inner life of the soul. To learn more, visit InwardTorah.org

Main Point. The whole Church is to train for godliness with hope in the living God. Driving Question. What does our spiritual training entail? 1. Train in the words of faith (6) Applications: Godly ministers who teach: feed others with the word, and feed themselves on the word. In what particular ways is the word nourishing you these days? 2. Train for godliness (7–9) How do you train yourself for spiritual growth? Recognize that God says you should give conscious attention to your spiritual growth (this is important). Regather for Lord's Day worship with your brothers and sisters (nourishment and communion with saints). Run alongside others (communion with saints). Read the Bible (know and learn about God). Respond with obedience and good works (practice his character). Regular prayer in communion with God (talk with God). Remember your efforts don't justify you before God (trust in Christ). 3. Train with hope set on the Living God (10) Takeaways. Confession and repentance. Christ is our righteousness. Consider the corporate application (v.6). Condition the heart for godliness.

Are you preparing for your next season? I believe God has a preferred future for your life. He's not finished with you and wants to use your life for His purpose. Too many people have settled with a belief they have reached their potential or that there's nothing more God wants to do through their lives. Main Points:1. Let me encourage you with this truth: Everyone has a next step to take. No matter how long you have served Christ, He still has a next step for you. It might be a step of faith or a step of obedience but know that you have another step to take.2. We must prepare ourselves today for what God has for us tomorrow. We can't wait until opportunities arrive to get prepared. We must prepare now. God may withhold opportunities because we are simply not ready.3. In a spiritual sense, God has a new season for you. His work in our lives is never static. By His Holy Spirit, God is always moving us forward. We must prepare today for what God wants to do in our lives tomorrow.Today's Scripture Verses:Joshua 3:5 - “Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you." Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Have you ever felt the temptation to take revenge? Your work colleague takes the credit for a project you have worked so hard on. Your so-called friend betrays your confidence and spreads lies about you. Your spouse has been unfaithful. Someone has attacked you, mistreated you, ignored you, or socially rejected you. Main Points:1. Revenge is the desire or urge to get even with somebody.  To punish or cause harm as an act of retaliation.  2. The idea of revenge is only an illusion.  You can never “get even” with anyone.  It is impossible to balance the scales of hurt.  The only possible way to come out on top is to respond to hurt with a godly attitude and trust that God will settle the account.  3. The people of God do not retaliate.  The people of God do not seek vengeance.  We do not take revenge into our own hands.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 5:44 – “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”  Romans 12:19-21 - “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary:  “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.  In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”  Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

What does it mean to be bold? The dictionary defines the word bold as “a characteristic of confidence and courage.” I believe God is calling for you and me to live our faith out loud with confidence and courage. How else will the world around us know the difference Jesus has made in our lives?Main Points:1. Pastor and Author Craig Groeschel wrote, “Sometimes we function as ‘Christian Atheists.' We believe in God, we just live as though he does not exist.”2. We've been told by our culture that faith is a private matter, it's inappropriate and rude to share it with anyone else. This, of course, is Satan's strategy to intimidate believers into silence and ineffectiveness for Christ. If our enemy can cause us to be afraid of what others will think of us, we'll keep our voices quiet and our influence will be minimized.3. We cannot be ashamed, timid, or afraid. The gospel is the “good news” of Jesus Christ. God intends for us to live out our faith in a public way. We can do this in kind, gentle, and respectful ways and still have a bold testimony for Christ.Today's Scripture Verses:Proverbs 28:1 - “The wicked flee when no one pursues, But the righteous are bold as a lion.”Romans 1:16 - “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…”Luke 9:26 - “Whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The question Jesus asks in Matthew 5:6 is….”Do we possess a craving hunger and thirst for God's righteous life?  The promise? “If we do, we will be filled.”Main Points:1. Because of our lack of hunger, it may be difficult for us to understand this particular beatitude. We rarely hunger and thirst after anything, so we miss the urgency of these words.2. If you and I want righteousness, we can have it. If you want a closer relationship with God, you can have it. Jesus provides the way. If you want to do God's will, you can. If you want to grow spiritually, you can. You have to hunger for it.3. How do we maintain a hunger for the righteousness of God? We make knowing God our number one goal in life.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 5:6 - “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”James 4:8 - “Come near to God and he will come near to you.”Psalm 107:9 - “For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Grace is God's undeserved kindness. The doctrine of grace is that God treats us better than we deserve to be treated. Grace is "the love and mercy given to us by God because God desires us to have it, not because of anything we have done to earn it.”  Grace comes from the Greek Word “charis” literally meaning “gift, kindness, generosity.”Main Points:1. God's Word teaches us that we are all sinners. We are all in need of God's grace. Jesus came, and by his death on the cross, paid the penalty for our sins. Salvation doesn't happen automatically because God is good. Because God is good, there is now a path to salvation, but it must be received. We receive grace by placing our faith in Jesus Christ, and Jesus Christ alone.2. Eternal life is not a reward for good people; it's God's gift to forgiven people.  When Jesus died on the cross he was lifted up to carry the sins of the world.  Your sin and mine.  His death satisfied sin's requirements.  Whatever you think you owe God, Jesus paid it.  3. To receive God's amazing grace, we must recognize we are lost. We must agree with God that we are sinners in need of His salvation. This is where we offer God our confession and repentance. Through faith, we believe in Jesus, and by grace we are saved. It's only here that those who are lost are found. Those who are blind now can see. God's grace is truly amazing.Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 2:8-9 - “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”Romans 5:20 - “… But where sin increased, grace increased all the more.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Main Point. Some will be deceived and depart from the faith, but the faithful embrace God's goodness with thanksgiving. Driving Question. How must the church guard against deception? 1. Expect apostasy (v. 1) Application. Be prepared for some to deconvert and abandon the faith. 2. Expose deceitful teaching (vv. 2–3) Attributes of false teaching: Demonic (v. 1) Deceitful (v. 1) Distorted (v. 2–3) Applications: Be ready and remember: Satan attacks God's character and changes God's word. Always reject your own works as God rejects them. Self-denial cannot change your heart, nor your position before God. 3. Embrace God's goodness by the word and prayer (4–5) Responses. Repent from holding on to anything but Christ. Rest in the centrality of Christ's work. Remember the certainties and warnings of God's Scriptures. Recognize the difference between legalism and godliness. Receive Christ and all things with gratitude from God.

As we have journeyed through life, you and I have experienced the comfort God can give. We know what it is like to feel his presence. We know the comfort God can give to a weary soul. The Bible also teaches us that we should use the comfort God has given us, and comfort others. Main Points:1. As we study the scripture, we begin to realize God wants to use us as His agents of comfort to others. Since we have experience in facing life's challenges but have also received God's comfort, we should be ready, willing, and available to express this comfort to others.2. One of my convictions is that in the body of Christ, no one should struggle alone. We are to be there for one another. Sometimes comfort is not found in the words we say. Have ever thought, “I don't even know what to say?” Comfort is often not received in our words, but more so by our presence. I call this the ministry of presence. It's a ministry to just sit and be with those who are suffering or grieving. The simple act of holding someone's hand, a hug, and a prayer for God's peace can comfort a heart that is hurting.3. We bring comfort by sharing how God has sustained us through our hard times. Remind them of God's presence. Encourage them to know God will never leave them or forsake them. Comfort them with the comfort you have received from God. Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 34:18  - “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”2 Corinthians 1:3-5 - “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ."Romans 12:15 - “…mourn with those who mourn.” Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Why is it important to have a biblical or godly perspective?  Our perspective should be the same as the God we serve. We want to see and interpret things the way God does. This will only happen as we make the Bible the lens through which we see the world. You'll never see things the way God does until you see things through the lens of scripture.Main Points:1. It's common to hear people, in a moment of disagreement say, “I don't see it that way.” As Christ-followers, we need to ask the question, “How does God see it?” We then reframe our perspective to match how God sees things.2. Our perspective matters because it influences our beliefs, values, our lifestyle, our mindset, and our attitude.3. Determine that the Bible will be the lens through which you see and interpret the World. As you do, you'll begin to see things the way God does.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Corinthians 4:7-9 - “ But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”2 Corinthians 4:16-18 - “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

We can choose to respond to adversity with fear, anxiety, and worry. We can also choose to respond with praise and worship. You might say, “Yes, but Loren, praise doesn't change my circumstances.” It might not, but it certainly will change what is happening inside of you. Main Points:1. As we praise, we confess what we know is true about God. We choose to trust and to believe, rather than to fear and despair. 2. Praise and worship are like nothing else. While God is the object of our praise, He, in turn, fills us with his presence. Praise and worship glorify and honor God, but it also lifts our spirits, gives us joy, and reminds us that God is present.3. Fight your battles with praise. As you do, the presence of God will encourage and uplift your soul.Today's Scripture Verses:Acts 16:22-24 - “The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods. After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.”Acts 16:25 - “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.”Romans 12:12 - “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Jesus invites us all to come. Think of the amazing accessibility of Jesus. There has never been a higher king. No king has ever had more power and authority. Yet, this king is accessible. He is approachable. He invites us all to come. He welcomes us into his presence. Main Points:1.  Jesus, the King of Kings invites us to come to Him. The King who has authority and power over every earthly king, does not hide in a castle or a place. He does not isolate himself behind walls and gates. He does not limit his presence to a few people of nobility, aristocracy, or upper-class status.2. King Jesus has time for you. You don't have to make an appointment. He is never too busy. He will never be preoccupied. Jesus is ready and available to listen, to hear your prayer, to meet with you, and to provide for your needs.3. It's an amazing truth, isn't it? You have access to Jesus. You don't have to meet certain requirements. You don't have to get approved. You don't have to meet a list of pre-qualifications. You just have to come by faith. We gain access to Jesus, his grace, and his salvation, through faith.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 11:28 - “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”John 7:37 - “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink.”Romans 5:1-2 - “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.” Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

My prayer for you today is that you will let nothing move you. Remain steadfast. Stand firm in the truth. When others compromise their beliefs and when others crumble under the pressure to water down the truth, I pray you will remain strong for Christ.Main Points:1.  “Will we stand and will we remain unmoved in our faith, our beliefs, and our biblical convictions? 2. Just continue. Continue to preach the gospel. Continue to stand for truth and righteousness. Continue to pray and seek for the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Continue to believe in God to move in your generation. Just keep going in those things which you are convinced of.3. Continue in the truth you know and hold dear. Remember, times change, but God's Word remains the same.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Timothy 3:14 - “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it…”“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

One of the greatest challenges we face emotionally is how we will respond when we are hurt. With the offense, we have a choice. Will we respond with grace and forgiveness, or will we respond with harshness and cynicism? Will we be quick to overlook an offense or will we respond with the same hurt we experienced?Main Points:1. I'm sure you'll agree, that it's not always easy to respond in a Christ-honoring way. We feel pain, and it seems human to respond in the same way. We tend to match emotion with emotion, anger with anger, and insult with insult.2. You and I can refuse to allow ourselves to become bitter. I wish I could offer you an offense-free life and promise you that from now on you will no longer be hurt by others, but such promises cannot be made. I can promise you that the Holy Spirit will give you the power to forgive and move on.3. Unforgiveness is a burden.  I think we all know what it feels like.  But forgiveness is freedom.  Where there was once sorrow, heaviness, and bitterness, is now comfort and peace.  When we forgive, we are released from bondage.  Forgiveness is like God opening the prison door and allowing us to walk away and leave it all behind.Today's Scripture Verses:Proverbs 19:11 - “Sensible people control their temper; they earn respect by overlooking wrongs.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

When it comes to the church. I believe unity is our foundation. The whole church stands or falls on the strength of this foundation.  As long as there are people, there will be a wide variety of opinions. That's okay. It's not essential to have a unity of opinion in every matter. What is crucial is that we have unity around mission, vision, and purpose. We must have a strong biblical and doctrinal foundation. Main Points:1. When we have unity, we have bought into the mission and vision of the church. We are willing to forgo some personal preferences for the greater good. We trust God has spoken to our leadership and we are willing to follow and serve. 2. When a church has strong unity, believers sincerely love one another. They protect each other and support one another. 3. We can sometimes unknowingly fall prey to the enemy's trap to sow seeds of disunity. When we complain, gossip, and talk behind another believer's back we can be driving a wedge in the unity of our church, without even realizing it. Today's Scripture Verses:Romans 14:19 - “Let us, therefore, make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”Ephesians 4:3 - “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

As children of God, we desire the Lord's hand of guidance and protection to be upon our lives. Why? Because He can see what we cannot see. He knows what we do not know. He holds our purpose and our future in His hands.Main Points:1. I believe each day the Holy Spirit is active in our lives too. He is speaking, leading, guiding, and directing. Are we listening? Are our ears open to the voice of the Holy Spirit? Are we sensitive to His promptings?2. Start your day by spending time with God. Then, as you go throughout your day, watch for the direction of the Holy Spirit. Ask Him to lead you. Ask Him to guide your steps. Trust that He is with you walking step by step. 3. God is not absent, uninvolved, and uninterested in your life. He is an ever-present God.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 37:23-24 - “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.”Proverbs 16:9 - “A man's heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps.”Proverbs 27:1 - “…you don't know what the day will bring.”Romans 8:14 - “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

We stand on Jesus' promise that the gospel will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations. As we see this being fulfilled, we know the end is near and Jesus' return is soon.Main Points:1. There are still locations in our world where the gospel message is not being preached. There are places where there are no churches, no missionaries, no translations of the Bible in local languages, and no access to the salvation message.2. With the use of the ever-increasing tools of technology the message of Christ is spreading faster than ever before. My prayer is that a new generation of missionaries will hear the call of God and will take the gospel to people still waiting to hear.3. The gospel of Jesus Christ is good news. We cannot be silent. We cannot keep such good news to ourselves. We must tell others. We must let people know that Jesus saves. Let's determine that we will be a part of preaching the gospel locally and globally as a testimony to all.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 24:14 - “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”1 Thessalonians 1:8 - “The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere.” Matthew 28:19 - “Go and make disciples of all nations…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Our problem is not that we don't have enough time.  The problem is that we don't always use our time wisely.  We all have the same amount of time. When it comes to time every single one of us has the exact same amount.  We all get 168 hours each week.  The good news is the Bible has a lot to say about how we can honor God with our time.  The Bible teaches us how to manage our time in a way that pleases God.Main Points:1. I have learned it's important to do a time audit. Ask yourself, “How am I spending my time? Am I being wise with the use of my time? Am I losing time somewhere? Am I wasting time? It's good to analyze where our time is being spent.2. Then ask yourself the question… “Is this really how I want to spend my life?  Remember your time is your life.”  God is only giving you so much.  How are you going to use it?  3. Time is a gift.  Your life is a gift.  You and I are managers of the time God has given us.  Will you and I choose to use the most valuable resource God has given us for his glory and his purpose?Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 31:14-15 - “But I trust in you, O Lord; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in your hand…”Ephesians 5:15-16 - “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity…”Haggai 1:7 – “This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Give careful thought to your ways.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

What is Jesus doing today? He is building His church. We hear stories about churches closing and increasing statistics of people who won't belong to a church community, yet you and I need to be assured of one great truth: Jesus will build His church.Main Points:1.  Recently, I've been hearing this phrase more and more. “I love Jesus, but I don't love the church.” I'm also hearing a lot of people say, “You know, you don't have to go to church to go to Heaven, you just have to believe in Jesus.  If this is your sentiment, let me give you something to consider. The church has a divine creation.  Some say, “The church was man's idea.”  No, that's not biblical.  The church was God's idea.2. Let me ask an important question. How can we love Jesus, and not love what He loves? If we have placed our faith in Jesus, how can we not be a part of what He is doing on the earth? How can we not join together with other Christ-followers to fulfill Jesus's mission? 3. If you are a believer in Jesus, recommit to being a part of His church. Let's love what Jesus loves and let's be a part of the church He is building.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 16:18 - “…I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”Ephesians 5:25 - “…Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”Acts 20:28 Jesus “bought the church with His own blood,”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Perhaps the lack of silence is due to our inability to find stillness and solitude. Yet, in my experience, it's in the silence that we can hear the voice of God. Sometimes we expect God to show up and speak up in loud and dramatic ways. He certainly can do that, but in my life, I've heard God speak mostly in the quiet times. Main Points:1.  Isn't life loud? It seems everywhere we go there is noise. Every store and restaurant has music playing. Throughout the day, we have the sound of people and traffic. Our phones constantly alert us of text messages, emails, and notifications. We don't have much silence in our lives. 2. Have you heard the whisper of God? Are you enjoying God in the silence? If life has become loud and noisy, and if you are overwhelmed and distracted, you might not be hearing the voice of God.3. In today's culture there is always somewhere to go and something to do. I encourage you today to make time to get quiet with God and listen for His whisper. This whisper is a reminder of God's constant presence, calling us to listen and be attuned to His guidance.Today's Scripture Verses:1 Kings 19:11-12 - “The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.”Psalm 46:10 - “Be still, and know that I am God.”Psalm 37:7 - “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Physical hunger is not your only craving. You also possess a spiritual hunger. This appetite also cries out to be fed. Both types of hunger were created by God. Physical hunger can only be satisfied by food. Spiritual hunger can only be satisfied by God.Main Points:1.  You have a longing in your soul for God. Many feel the yearning but do not recognize that it is spiritual. They feel a sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction with life. So many people are thinking, “There must be something more to life. What am I missing?”2. In an attempt to satisfy their hunger, they go on a search. Attempts are made to gratify this spiritual emptiness with temporary, earthly things, only to be left with greater hunger.3. So, let me give you the good news. Only Jesus can satisfy our spiritual hunger. Why? Because God designed us in such a way. Only God can fill the void in our souls. A relationship with Jesus is so nourishing and so satisfying that we will wonder why we neglected Him for so long. We will wonder why we bought into the deception of this world it could offer what we needed.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 107:9 - “For He satisfies the longing soul, And fills the hungry soul with goodness.”Matthew 5:6 - “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

I think the whole episode is more interesting than just the Main Points! Here are the 5 Tips for Moving Forward with the Mission, 5 Markers of the Inferior Man, and everything else in between.Thank you for your support!Let's Work Together: Interest Form Website: https://www.iamtaylorchandler.com/Instagram: @iamtaylorchandler YouTube: @iamtaylorchandler

The condition of your heart determines the direction of your life.  This is the consistent teaching of the Scriptures – as our hearts go, so do our actions.Main Points:1. Satan uses all kinds of weapons to attack our hearts.  For me, these attacks often come in the form of some circumstance that leads to disappointment, discouragement, or even disillusionment.  2. Solomon's words are a warning. He says we are to “guard.”  He implies you are living in a combat zone.  You don't have to guard something unless it is under attack.  You don't guard and protect something unless it is in danger.3. In prayer, do a heart check. Is your heart healthy? Are you healthy spiritually? Spiritual vitality is found in a close relationship with Jesus Christ.Today's Scripture Verses:Proverbs 4:23 - “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Proverbs 17:19 - “As water reflects the face, so one's life reflects the heart.”Luke 6:45 - “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”Proverbs 4:20-22 – “My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words.  Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one's whole body.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Work out your salvation. Put your salvation to work. Let it be evident in every area of your life. Allow your salvation to transform your thinking, your attitude, your words, and your behavior. Let Christ be exalted in every area.Main Points:1. The forgiveness of our sins does not come through our own works and good deeds. In other words, we could never earn our salvation.2. Works do not save us, but they are the evidence of our salvation. We do not work to be saved. We work because we are saved.3. Having received such a powerful and gracious salvation from our heavenly father, we want to serve Him. We want to live the life of a believer he has called us to. We want to use our time, talents, and treasure to advance the kingdom of God.Today's Scripture Verses:Acts 16:30 - “What must I do to be saved?”Ephesians 2:8-9 - “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”Philippians 2:12-13 - “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”James 2:26 - “Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.” Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Our suffering can increase our testimony for Christ. Our hard times can elevate our witness. Our difficulties can give us a larger and more receptive audience to whom we can influence for Christ.Main Points:1. Suffering, as a tool for advancing the gospel? No, I think I'll pass. Yet, over and over again in Scripture, we see God redeeming suffering for His kingdom purposes.2. Paul's freedom and mobility were restricted, it was not a situation he would have chosen for himself. Yet, as he writes to the Philippians, Paul recognizes that his house arrest has advanced the gospel of Jesus Christ. He was allowed to have visitors to whom Paul boldly taught about Jesus.3. These examples reveal God's kingdom's purposes being accomplished through suffering. While none of us want to go through hard times, we ask that God would use them for His glory. We ask that He would make our witness clear and bold for Christ. We ask that others see our love for Jesus and that our suffering would present opportunities for people to hear the gospel message.   Today's Scripture Verses:Philippians 1:12 - “Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.”Acts 28:30-31 - “For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group