Podcasts about main points

Have you ever encountered someone who simply wouldn't listen to wise advice? Or what about you? Have you ever refused to listen to words of wisdom?  The Bible calls this decision "foolish."Main Points:1. The Bible teaches us that a foolish person is the one who leaves God out. In fact, Psalm 14:1 - “The fool has said in his heart, there is no God.” According to the Scripture, the fool either doesn't believe in God, or they don't consider God and his ways. They leave God out. The fool doesn't follow Godly wisdom or advice. The fool leaves God out of their planning and goes their own way.2. Charles Stanley wrote, “Wisdom is the capacity to see things from God's perspective and respond according to scriptural principles.”3. I believe that to gain wisdom, we must have humility. As long as we think we know better, we'll neglect Godly wisdom, whether it comes from Scripture or a trusted friend. When we humble ourselves, we are declaring that God knows better. We are acknowledging our weaknesses and our limitations. We are trusting God to lead us to make the right decisions.Today's Scripture Verses:Proverbs 12:15 - “The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.” Proverbs 28:26 - “Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.”Proverbs 14:12  - “There is a way that seems right to a person, but its end is the way to death.”1 Corinthians 3:19 - “The wisdom of this world is foolishness with 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

Today, you and I will face things that will threaten our faith, especially our faith in God's protection. You might be worried about your marriage, the decisions your children are making, the future of your career, the economy, or even your physical safety. You might be worried about your retirement account, the increase in crime in your neighborhood, or an upcoming medical test. There are so many things that threaten our faith in God's protection.Main Points:1. First, remembering God's past protection inspires us to believe God will protect us in the present and future. Remembering what God has already done inspires confidence in God's future faithfulness. 2. Second, David knows the power of verbalizing his faith. He worships out loud. In Psalm 27:6, David says, “I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord.” By writing down this Psalm, he is declaring what he believes about God. In doing both of these things, he is encouraging his own soul in the Lord.3. You and I can do this today. No matter what you are facing, put your faith in God and in His power to protect you. Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 27:1-2 - “The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked came against me To eat up my flesh, My enemies and foes, They stumbled and fell. Though an army may encamp against me, My heart shall not fear; Though war may rise against me, In this I will be confident.”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 presence of God is an amazing thing. To think that God is with us is incredible. God is omnipresent. He is always with us. In fact, He promised to never leave us or forsake us. But if that is true, why don't we experience more peace? The answer is that we are not always aware of God's presence.Main Points:1. J. Oswald Sanders - “Peace is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of God.”2. Most often, we are more aware of our fears, anxieties, problems, and struggles. These present difficulties occupy our thoughts and emotions. We can let them take over. But when we are consumed with fear, worry, and anxiety, we are less consumed with thoughts about God. So, the issue is not about God's location. The issue is with our awareness of His presence.3. So, let me ask you: How aware are you today of God's presence? Are your thoughts focused on the Lord? Have you spent time with him today? Have you read His Word and allowed it to speak to your soul? Have you made time to worship and pray? Spending time with God is the most important thing you will do today. Today's Scripture Verses:Philippians 4:6-7 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.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

Remember this: our hope in God isn't just a wish or a dream, but a sure confidence that what God says will happen. Every other hope will disappoint. Every other hope will come up short. God is the one who never fails, he never leaves us, and he never forsakes us.Main Points:1. Today, I ask you to let the Word of God penetrate the dark place in your soul. Let the light of God's truth illuminate your situation. If you feel hopelessness, despair, discouragement, or depression, receive this Word from the Lord.2. Just because you can't see him, it doesn't mean God is not at work in your life. Just because you don't recognize it at the moment, it doesn't mean there is no way out. Just because you don't feel him, it doesn't mean the Lord is not with you. 3. Discouragement, despair, and hopelessness are not God's will for your life. Let his truth fill your heart and mind. Meditate on His Word. Let God restore your hope.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 34:17-19 - “The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. The righteous person faces many troubles, but the Lord comes to the rescue each time.”Psalm 113:4-5 - “For the Lord is high above the nations; his glory is higher than the heavens. Who can be compared with the Lord our God, who is enthroned on high?”Matthew 19:26 - “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”1 John 4:16 - “ We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them.”Psalm 25:3 - “No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame”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'm fascinated with the idea that we are to love God with all of our minds. The Bible sees the mind as a place of our thoughts, judgment, and intention.  Our minds allow us to be rational, weigh evidence, make decisions about right and wrong, and to develop opinions.  Our minds allow us to worship, praise God, love, repent, and trust.Main Points:1. Why is it important to consider loving God with our minds?  Because during a typical day, we constantly use our minds to make decisions.  How many thoughts pass through your mind every day?  Several studies have shown that we think around 6,000 thoughts per day. Our mind is a huge part of who we are. 2. Loving God with our minds is critical because our minds are connected to our emotions and our actions.3. God gives us the power to change how we think, so through even our thoughts, we are loving and honoring God. Today's Scripture Verses:Mark 12:29-30 - “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.'”2 Corinthians 10:5 – “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” Colossians 3:2 - “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”Romans 12:2  - “Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”Colossians 1:9 - “So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and 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

Know this: God always has a next step for us. Until we see Jesus in glory, God is not finished with us. This work of ongoing spiritual growth and development is called sanctification.Main Points:1. The basic meaning of "sanctify" is to set apart to God, for His use. This work of “setting us apart” is the ongoing spiritual growth that makes you and me more like Jesus.2. Sanctification is the work of God in our lives to call us away from sin, ungodliness, and worldliness, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, enable us to live holy and righteous lives that reflect Christ.3. Salvation is a momentary act, bringing us from spiritual death to life. It is exclusively God's work. Sanctification is an ongoing process; it is dependent on God's ongoing work in our lives, but it also requires our continuous fight against sin.Today's Scripture Verses:1 Thessalonians 4:3 - “It is God's will that you should be sanctified.”Romans 8:29 - (God is) “conforming us to the image of His Son.”  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— not by works, so that no one can boast.”1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 - “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.”Philippians 1:6, “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Jesus Christ.”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

It's always better to listen to the caution of the Holy Spirit and to guard our hearts against pride. If we do not live in humility before the Lord. God himself will humble us, and it is not pleasant.Main Points:1. What is Humility?  Humility is an accurate estimation of our self-importance in relation to God and others.  Humility is having a right view of yourself because you have a right view of God.2. Humility is not thinking too highly of yourself. It's also not thinking too low of yourself. It's having an accurate estimation of our self-importance in relation to God and others.3. So, how do we humble ourselves? We focus on the greatness of God. In my life, I cannot be prideful, and God be great. It can't happen at the same time. Either I think God is great or I think I am great. It's having a right view of yourself because you have a right view of God.Today's Scripture Verses:James 4:10 - “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”Luke 14:11 - “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”“Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.” (Romans 12:3)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 my life, I have discovered that when it comes to the choices of fear and faith, it's not always one or the other. Life produces fear, it's an emotion we feel, but with God's help, I can choose faith anyway. Though I may feel fear, I choose to trust God. Main Points:1. As Christians, we acknowledge that fear is a choice. We can also make another choice. It's the decision to live by faith. 2. Having faith doesn't diminish the reality of what we are facing, it doesn't deny it or sweep it under the rug. Faith is not pretending the hard times aren't there. Faith is choosing to believe that God is with us in our battle and that the ultimate outcome is in His hands. He is involved in every detail of our lives.3. Faith brings God into the equation. As I face my fears, I remember what the Bible says about God's character and his power. God is both loving and strong. He is compassionate and powerful.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 23:4 - “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.”Psalm 86:15 - “But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.”Ephesians 3:20 - “God…is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us.”Psalm 56:3 - “When I am afraid, I put my trust in 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

Mark 3:20-35 Big Idea: Misunderstanding Jesus puts you outside His true family, but trusting Him brings you in. Main Points:

There is a very common type of fear identified in the Bible that is not talked about much. It is the fear of man. It's a fear of people and it can include intimidation, peer pressure, social anxiety, isolation, and insecurity. The fear of man can lead us to make choices that aren't right for us or avoid making decisions at all. Main Points:1. When we are filled with the fear of man we are no longer focused on God, his presence, and his power in our lives. The fear of man leads us to a place of bondage and enslavement. We become slaves to our fears and unable to move forward.2. The fear of man asks: What do people think of me? Will they accept me? What if I'm rejected? What if they don't like what I'm doing? How can I face something like that?3. The will of God for your life is peace and rest. God's will is for you to live with confidence in your Heavenly Father's love. When we fear others we live for their approval. As believers, we are to live for the approval of God.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 29:25 - “The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.”Hebrews 13:6 - “So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”Galatians 1:10 - “For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.”Psalm 27:1 - “The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?”Proverbs 14:27 - “The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death.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

Meet Michael Waldman, who saw Bruce Springsteen around 50 times in 1974 and 1975. Yes, you read that right. Michael joins Jeff in the cafe to discuss his early memories of seeing Bruce in concert over 50 years ago and how a chance listening to '4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy)' one day in college changed his life forever.

I discovered that Jesus could offer me something that nothing or no one else could offer.  He could quench my spiritual thirst.  He offered me a relationship.  He offered me purpose for my life.  As I began to sincerely follow him, my life was filled with contentment.  I realized that Jesus could satisfy the thirst and the longing that I had inside.Main Points:1. You and I have experienced physical thirst. But we have another kind of thirst. It's spiritual thirst, and yes everyone experiences it, sometimes without realizing it. Inside all of us there is a thirst that nothing in this world can satisfy.  There is a thirst within us that only God can fill.  2. All of us have tried to satisfy our thirst. If a person is thirsty, they are going to search for water.  It's the same way with our spiritual thirst.  We are all looking for a way to quench our thirst.  We search for meaning and purpose through a person, through possessions, or by pursuing pleasure…only to find that our souls are still parched. 3. We experience this living water when we put our faith in Jesus as our Savior and Lord. It's only then that we can experience the satisfaction of our thirst being quenched.Today's Scripture Verses:John 6:35 - Jesus says, “He who believes in me will never thirst.” John 7:37-38 - : “‘If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within 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

According to the Joshua Project, there are still 7,415 unreached people groups around the world. An unreached or least-reached people is a people group among which there is no indigenous community of believing Christians with adequate numbers and resources to evangelize this people group without outside assistance.Main Points:1. Why should we care? Why should this be a priority for the church? Because we are compelled by our Savior to reach them. We have been given this mission. This is what matters to God.2. There must be within the body of Christ an urgency to take the gospel to the ends of the earth. The gospel must be urgent to us because it is urgent to God. Can I ask you, “Is the work of missions and evangelism urgent for you?”3. What if every Christian took the Great Commission seriously? What if every Christian prayed for the lost, for our missionaries, and the unreached? What if every Christian gave financially each month to ensure that everyone around the world had access to the gospel message? What if every Christian took steps of faith to witness for Christ?Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 28:19-20 - “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”2 Peter 3:9 - (God does not want) “anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”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

From generation to generation, the Word of God endures. It is timeless in its relevance. It speaks to the hearts of men, women, teenagers, boys, and girls. Seasons come and go, but the Scripture is still powerful in its application to the human condition.Main Points:1. The Word of God we have is precious. God has spoken and we have it in print and in digital form. It cannot and will not be destroyed. The Word of God is eternal because God is eternal. 2. God was the primary author of the Bible; He was the One who inspired the writers to speak truths.  He was the initiator.  God was the source, the writers were the recipients.3. We can approach the Word of God today with confidence in its accuracy, relevance, and its power to endure. It is the eternal Word of God.Today's Scripture Verses:Isaiah 40:8 - “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.”Matthew 24:35 - “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”1 Peter 1:25 - “but the word of the Lord endures forever.” And this is the word that was preached to you.”Psalm 119:89 says, “Your word, Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.”2 Peter 1:21 - “For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”2 Timothy 3:16 - “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness…”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

Offense is a growth opportunity. How will you respond when another Christian hurts you? Will you become offended and bitter? Will you ignore them and refuse to talk with them? Will you leave the church in an attempt to find a better one?  Or, will you allow the experience to become a tool that helps you grow spiritually? Main Points:1. Every Christian is in process. We are not who we used to be, but we are not yet what we will be in Christ. We are learning and we are growing, but we are not yet perfect. Sometimes we make mistakes, we react, we get frustrated, and we say things we shouldn't.2. We can't use our imperfections as an excuse. We have to own our behavior, ask God for forgiveness, ask others for their forgiveness and seek to reconcile. The mistakes then become an opportunity for our spiritual growth.3. No one is immune to the challenges that come from relationships, even those among believers. We will all face them. Yet, there is so much growth that can occur in our character as we continue to love, pray, forgive, and sometimes confront.Today's Scripture Verses:Luke 6:28 - “bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”  Ephesians 4:32 - “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”Proverbs 19:11 - “A person's wisdom yields patience; it is to one's glory to overlook an offense.”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

Everyone says Gen Z is walking away from church. But growing research tells a very different story. Today's teenagers are spiritually curious, surprisingly open, and eager for authentic relationships. The question is: are we ready to reach them?

Character is never built in a classroom. Character is built in the circumstances of life.  God builds character in our lives by allowing us to experience situations where we are tempted to do the exact opposite of the character quality. Character development always involves a choice. When we make the right choice, our character grows more like Christ.  Main Points:1. We don't know why tragic circumstances happen in our lives. We don't know why accidents happen. We don't know why people receive bad news from the doctor. Life and its difficulties comes to us all. Live long enough and you will experience suffering.2. God will use every circumstance of our lives to help us be more like Jesus. If you think back over your life you'll realize that you have grown through the things you suffered. 3. Christ-like character is the goal of the Christian life.  To settle for anything less is to miss the point of spiritual growth.Today's Scripture Verses:Isaiah 43:2 - “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.”Hebrews 5:8  - “Even though Jesus was God's Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered.”Romans 8:28 - “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”Romans 8:29 - “For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son.”Ephesians 4:13 - We are to “become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”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

Do you ever wonder what God is up to? When there is a path forward that seems to be logical, rational, and reasonable, yet God takes another path? What is God' doing? Where is He taking us? These are questions we all ask. But here is a better question for  us to consider: Will we trust God's plan? Will we trust our lives to a sovereign God who sees and knows all things?Main Points:1.Our decision to trust God comes down to our belief in his goodness. If you truly believe God is good, that his is loving, and that what he does is always right, you are more likely to trust him.2. The longer you serve God, the more you realize that God's ways don't always make sense to us. He knows and sees what what we do not. If you are waiting for God to make sense to you, it's not likely you will trust Him. This is a faith journey. Will you believe? Will you put your complete trust in him? 3. Whatever you are facing today remember that God knows and that He has a plan. Decide to trust Him. Let His plan for your life unfold. Today's Scripture Verses:Mark 4:37-38 - “A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped.  Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don't you care if we drown?”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 we live out our faith in public, it naturally produces questions in the minds of unbelievers. We'll likely hear questions such as: Why are you a Christian? What do you believe about God? Do you believe the Bible is the Word of God? Why did Jesus die on the cross? Where is God in this messed up world? Why do you go to church on Sundays?Main Points:1. We need to reject the cultural pressure to keep our beliefs to ourselves. This is the strategy of Satan, to intimidate believers into keeping their mouths shut and not speaking up for our savior. Remember, we have good news! Good news is to be shared with others.2. Over the years, I've heard Christian say they don't share their faith because they don't feel prepared to answer these questions. This is exactly why the Apostle Peter says we are to “get ready.” We can prepare ourselves by thinking though how we would share our testimony. Write down why you believe in Jesus. Discuss with a friend or family member how you would answer basic questions.3. We must pray and ask God to use us. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill your heart and mind with the words to say. Trust that He will enable you to speak beyond your natural ability. Believe that God will use your words to speak to the hearts of the listener. Today's Scripture Verses:1 Peter 3:15 - "“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”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 if Jesus walked through the doors today and told us He was returning exactly one year from now? How would that change everything about the way we live? This powerful message from 1 Peter 4:1-11 challenges us to examine whether we're truly living like the end is near or just going through the motions of faith while our hearts remain tethered to temporary things. The passage confronts us with uncomfortable questions about idolatry in our modern lives, reminding us that anything elevated above God, whether it's sports, relationships, approval, or even our own families, can become an idol that steals our worship. Peter urges believers to arm themselves with Christ's attitude toward suffering and to be anxious to do God's will rather than chase our own desires. The text reveals ten diagnostic questions to identify idols in our lives, from what dominates our thoughts to what we defend excessively. But this isn't just about what we avoid; it's about what we pursue. People who live like the end is near are earnest and disciplined in prayer, show deep unconditional love that covers a multitude of sins, and actively use their spiritual gifts to serve others. The challenge isn't to live in fear, but to live with purpose, knowing that opposition will come when we choose to follow Jesus faithfully, yet pressing forward anyway because eternity is what truly matters.**Sermon Notes:****Title:** Living Like the End is Near **Speaker:** Jesse **Text:** 1 Peter 4:1-11 (NLT)**Detailed Notes:**1. **Introduction:**  - Jesse expresses gratitude for the opportunity to lead a student takeover and highlights how student ministry serves as a bridge from kids' ministry to adult services.  - The series has been based on 1 Peter, focusing on the call to live in light of the living hope through Jesus.  2. **Theme of 1 Peter:**  - The book emphasizes living in response to the living hope given through Jesus.  - Christians should live with an awareness that this world is temporary.3. **Passage Overview:**  - Jesse reads 1 Peter 4:1-11, highlighting the call to arm ourselves with Christ's attitude, be prepared to suffer, resist sin, and live for the will of God.4. **Main Points:**  - **Arm Yourself with the Attitude of Christ:**   - Be ready to suffer as Christ did and cease following your sinful desires.   - Prioritize living for God's will over worldly pursuits and pleasures.  - **Understanding Idolatry:**   - Anything elevated above God can become an idol (e.g., power, pleasure, money).   - Evaluate priorities to ensure they are aligned with God's will.  - **Expect Opposition:**   - Faithful following of Jesus will likely lead to slander or rejection by former friends or worldly influences.   - Opposition is a normal part of sincerely following Christ.  - **Stay Eternally Focused:**   - Be earnest and disciplined in prayer.   - Show deep love to others, practicing hospitality and using spiritual gifts for service.    - **Utilize God's Gifts:**   - Recognize and actively use the spiritual gifts God has bestowed for the benefit of others and God's glory.5. **Concluding Story:**  - Jesse shares an experience of witnessing baptisms and the heartfelt reminder that choosing to follow Jesus is the most significant decision in life.  - Encourages living every day with the urgency that the end is near.**Practical Applications:**- **Evaluate Priorities:** - List and rank your current priorities. Align them with God's will, ensuring that none take precedence over your relationship with Him.- **Identify Idols:** - Reflect on what you might be elevating above God in your life. Commit to submitting these areas to Him.- **Face Opposition with Grace:** - Prepare for slander or rejection by grounding your identity in Christ. Maintain love and grace towards those who oppose you.- **Enhance Prayer Life:** - Set a daily routine for earnest and disciplined prayer, focusing on God's guidance and interceding for others.- **Use Your Gifts:** - Identify your spiritual gifts and find ways to serve in your church community or local area, contributing to God's work.**Discussion Questions:**1. **Idolatry Reflection:**  - What are some potential idols in your life that can interfere with your relationship with God? How can you ensure that God remains your top priority?2. **Handling Opposition:**  - How have you experienced opposition when trying to live out your faith? What strategies have you found effective in maintaining faithfulness to Christ in these situations?3. **Prayer and Urgency:**  - How does the idea of living like the end is near change your approach to prayer and interaction with others?4. **Gifts and Service:**  - What gifts has God given you? How can you begin or continue to use them to serve others and glorify God within your church and community?By focusing on these elements, individuals can be encouraged to align their lives more closely with biblical teachings, fully utilizing their spiritual gifts, and living with an eternal perspective.

As we read the four Gospels, we see Jesus modeling prayer and teaching His disciples to pray, but did you know that Jesus gave us only one prayer request? Yes, Jesus himself asks us to pray for something.Main Points:1. As Jesus speaks about the lost, those who have not put their faith in God, he uses the metaphor of a field of crops that are ripe and ready to be harvested. He said the harvest is plentiful. There are many who would come into the kingdom of God, yet there is one obstacle. The workers are few. Jesus warned us that opportunities to meet human need and bring people into His kingdom may be wasted because of a shortage of laborers.2. It's here that Jesus gives us his prayer request. Since the harvest belongs to the Lord, we are to pray to Him and ask him to send more workers into his harvest field.3. There is an urgency in the heart of Jesus. As he sees the need, he knows that time is of the essence. A harvest will not always be ready. Eventually, a missed harvest will spoil, its fruit will rot. There is a need for laborers and the need is now.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 9:37-38 - “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”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

When we see all God has created, simply by speaking a word, we recognize his existence, his majesty, and his power. I believe there is a natural curiosity in our hearts that cannot be completely satisfied by anything else but a belief in the existence of God.Main Points:1. Listen again to those powerful words: “The heavens proclaim the glory of God.”  David looked to the heavens – not the spiritual heaven where God is enthroned, but the heavens of the blue sky and the night sky – and he clearly saw the glory of God declared.2. I think you have I have experienced what David saw and felt. When you see the serenity of a sunrise or the beauty of a sunset, when we see a sky filled with millions of stars, when we see the radiance of the sun and moon, and when we think of the multitude of galaxies God has created, it all reveals the glory of God.3. The word glory here means that which gives the honor to God - his wisdom, power, skill, faithfulness, benevolence, as seen in the starry worlds above us, and even the silent, movements by day and by night. The idea is, that these convey to the mind a true impression of the greatness and majesty of God. Everyone with physical eyesight can see the glory of God.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 19:1-2 - “The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known.”Psalm 8:1,3-4 - “O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! Your glory is higher than the heavens. When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—the moon and the stars you set in place—what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?”Romans 1:20 - “For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing 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

This week Pastor Rob speaks how speaking the truth is worth the conflict.   Main Points & Scripture: Galatians 2:4-6 Galatians 2:11-13 POINT: The Truth Matters More Than Your Truth And Both Are Not True! POINT: What you believe, what you say & what you accept will influence others to do the same POINT: Strongly held beliefs can turn into Wrongly held beliefs if not rooted in the truth of the scriptures Galatians 2:20 POINT: Anyone need a fresh start today?   *This episode was recorded on 11/16/25

In this message, Pastor Andrew begins a vital new series that will carry us all the way to Christmas: Growing in Knowing. This first message — “The God You Know” — lays the foundation for what may be one of the most important studies our church has walked through. In Colossians 1:9–10, Paul prays that believers would be “filled with the knowledge of His will… increasing in the knowledge of God.” That prayer reveals a stunning truth: it is possible to believe in God, attend church, and even serve — and still not truly know Him. In this message, Pastor Andrew confronts one of the greatest crises of the modern church:

Welcome to 30 Tips in 30 Days! Over the entire month of November, I will be releasing a short, bite sized episode of Fearless Presentations every morning covering things that are absolutely essential to being a better presenter. Whether you've been speaking professionally for years and years or are looking to just start your public speaking journey, applying just these 30 tips I cover here will instantly and easily make you improve as a speaker. Getting the audience to remember much from a presentation (especially a really long presentation) is incredibly hard. Giving audiences a huge list of points to remember and hone in on is even more-so fighting a losing battle. Limiting yourself to 5 or fewer points ensures that people can reliably remember everything, aren't overwhelmed, and each point has a proper amount of substance to it. Show Notes: 101 Public Speaking Tips For Delivering Your Best Speech(https://www.fearlesspresentations.com/101-public-speaking-tips-for-delivering-your-best-speech/)

Romans 7 presents us with one of the most raw and vulnerable passages in all of Scripture, where we encounter the apostle Paul wrestling with a tension that every believer knows intimately: the struggle between who we are in Christ and the sin that still clings to our flesh. This passage doesn't offer us a polished, perfect Christianity—instead, it invites us into the messy reality of spiritual transformation. We discover that being saved doesn't make us perfect; it makes us forgiven. The profound truth here is that we are no longer 'in the flesh' but we are still 'of the flesh'—we've been freed from sin's dominion, yet we still battle its presence. Paul's honest confession 'I do not understand my own actions' resonates deeply because it mirrors our own experience. We find ourselves doing the very things we hate and failing to do the good we desire. This isn't a sign that our salvation is invalid; rather, it's evidence of the spiritual war raging within every Christ-follower. The beauty emerges when Paul asks not 'what will deliver me?' but 'who will deliver me?'—pointing us away from self-help solutions toward the only One who can truly save us. The answer comes thundering through: 'Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord,' followed immediately by the liberating declaration of Romans 8:1—'There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.' We're reminded that our Father stands with arms wide open, not waiting to condemn us for our failures, but inviting us to run to Him with every struggle, every sin, every moment of weakness.### Detailed Sermon Notes**Introduction:**- Pastor Will introduces himself and shares his recent mission trip to Malawi and South Africa. He emphasizes the gratitude for the church's support, which enables partnerships and gospel sharing in extremely impoverished regions.**Scripture Focus (Romans 7:13-25):**- **Struggle with Sin:** - Paul's honesty about his battle with sin highlights a universal Christian experience. - Believers are of the flesh yet in Christ, creating a tension of living according to the Spirit while wrestling with sinful nature. - Paul's question, "Why do I do what I don't want to do?" resonates with many believers.**Life as a Journey:**- **Analogy of the River:** - Life's path before Christ is like flowing downstream. Conversion is the turning point, representing the choice to paddle upstream against worldly currents.**Personal Story:**- Will shares a story of his son breaking a TV and promptly confessing, illustrating how God desires us to come to Him after we fail, instead of trying to fix things on our own.**Main Points:**- **Human Nature vs. Divine Calling:** - Despite being saved, Christians have an ongoing struggle with sin due to their fleshly nature. - Quoting John MacArthur, Will explains that believers are not "in" the flesh but "of" it, highlighting the continuous internal conflict.**Closing Message:**- Only Jesus, not human efforts, can deliver from sin's power.- Encourages transparency within the church, fostering a community where individuals can confess struggles without judgment.### Practical Applications1. **Embrace Transparency:**  - Cultivate authentic relationships within the church by admitting and discussing personal struggles.2. **Run to God:**  - Develop a habit of confessing sins to God promptly and seeking His strength to overcome, rather than relying on self-improvement techniques.3. **Rely on Grace:**  - Focus on understanding and relying on God's grace through Christ, rather than attempting to achieve righteousness through personal effort.4. **Scripture Engagement:**  - Regularly read and meditate on Scripture to reinforce the truth of God's grace and the ongoing internal battle with sin.### Discussion Questions1. **Personal Reflection:**  - Describe a time when you felt like Paul, struggling between your desires and your actions. How did you handle it?2. **The Role of Grace:**  - How can embracing God's grace daily help you in your struggle against sin?3. **Community Support:**  - In what ways can you contribute to making the church a more open and accepting environment for vulnerability and authenticity?4. **Prayerful Dependence:**  - What steps can you take to run to God and seek His help whenever you face temptation or failure? 

When we recognize how great God's love is for us, the only response is to love him in return. No one has done for us what God has done. No one has given to us what God has given. Jesus laid down his life as a sacrifice for our sins so that we could have forgiveness and eternal life. It is the greatest demonstration of love the world has ever seen.Main Points:1. Loving God is our great motivation to serve. It is not a drudgery to serve God. It is not a burden or an obligation. It is not a problem to serve Him. If Jesus would go to the cross for us, we should willingly and lovingly serve Him in return.2. Having been changed by the love of God, we love him in return. This love compels us to follow, surrender, serve, and obey.3. Join me in asking God to help us to love Him more. I believe this prayer honors the Lord. He will give us a greater capacity to love and it will become the motivation for all we do.Today's Scripture Verses:Romans 5:8 - “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”John 14:15 - “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”2 Corinthians 5:14 - “For the love of Christ compels us…”Matthew 22:37 - “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your 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

What Jesus did for us on the cross was a complete work. It is a finished work. While Jesus hung on the cross he said these words, “It is finished.” There is nothing more to do. He obeyed his Father completely. Our debt of sin is paid in full. Main Points:1. How foolish it would be to continue to try and pay for something that has already been paid for, yet that's what many people do with their salvation. Jesus has paid their debt in full with his sacrificial death on the cross, yet they continue to try to pay for their salvation.2. What Jesus had come to do was completed. The justice of a righteous and a holy God was satisfied. The penalty for sin had been given. The price had been paid in full.3. There is nothing we can do to add to our salvation. But it's here that many of us struggle. Surely there must be something for me to do to be saved. But there is not. Not good deeds, not cleaning up your life, not baptism, not religious activity. There is nothing we can do to add to our salvation. Our debt is paid in full.Today's Scripture Verses:Colossians 2:13-14 - “You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross.”Revelation 13:8 Jesus…”the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.”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

Which physical posture of prayer is the right one for you?  I would say, none of them! Rather than the external posture, the Bible emphasizes the posture of the heart. Whether you are standing, sitting, or lying down, the important thing is that your heart is bowed in submission to the lordship of Christ. Main Points:1. True prayer is characterized by the posture of the heart, not the physical posture of the person praying.2. So, what is the right posture of our hearts as we come to God in prayer. I believe it must include three things: reverence, humility, and gratitude.3. As you pray today, it may be that you'll sense God leading you to a particular posture of prayer. Maybe you'll kneel, stand, or even lift your hands. Whichever posture of prayer you choose, don't forget about the posture of your heart.Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 3:14 - “For this reason, I kneel before the Father.” Psalm 95:6 - “Come, let us worship and bow down, Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.”Hebrews 12:28 - “Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe.”John 14:13 - “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.”1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”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 want to assure you today that no matter what you are experiencing or what you feel, God's face is turned towards you. He does know what you feel and He cares.Main Points:1. Perhaps you feel down today, thinking all your hope is gone, that even God has abandoned you. Yes, you may feel those things, but that doesn't mean your feelings are true. The God of Heaven knows what you are feeling. He understands the pressure you are feeling. Most of all, He is there. He cares and He is with you.2. In your loneliness, stand on this great truth from Scripture. God is with you. In fact, he has promised to always be with you.3. What is it that lifts our spirits when we are lonely? What encourages our hearts? I believe the answer is found in worship. When we worship Jesus we experience a change in perspective. Our focus is no longer on our loneliness, the absence of friends and family, and what we do not have. Our focus now is solely upon Jesus, his comforting presence, his love for us, and his promise to always be with us.Today's Scripture Verses:Genesis 2:18 - “The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone.”Hebrews 13:5 - “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”Isaiah 43:2 - “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” Psalm 27:10 - "Even if my father and mother abandon me, the LORD will hold me close.” Proverbs 18:24 - “There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”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 started this episode talking about how the world calculates self-worth, but the truth is, you can't calculate your self-worth. It's already been determined. Your self-worth was set by Jesus. You are so valuable Jesus laid down his life for you. Paul said, “I live by faith in the Son of God who loves me and gave himself for me.”Main Points:1. Don't buy into the lies that your value is determined by your performance. Don't accept the labels others put on your life. Don't let the rejection you have received from others keep you from receiving acceptance from Jesus.2. The opinion of others makes no difference in your self-worth.  Because who you are, with Jesus, matters more than what other people tell you about yourself.  Because you are made in His image, He is the one who determines your self-worth. 3. Rest in this truth: Your life has value. God has established your worth.Today's Scripture Verses:Galatians 2:20 - “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for 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

In a world of mistrust, God can be trusted. He can be counted upon. He keeps his promises, he fulfills his word, and he does what he says he will do. God is worthy of your trust, your faith, and your confidence.Main Points:1. The Bible teaches us that God is faithful. This means God is always reliable, all of the time.  He does not fail or forget.  He always keeps his word.  His character is consistent and He never changes.2. Think about the implications of this wonderful truth. If God never changes, his love never changes. His grace never changes. His forgiveness never changes. His power and his presence never change. His ability never changes.3. If you are struggling to trust God, be assured of his character. There is no one like God. He does not change. He will be faithful in your life. Today's Scripture Verses:Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today, and forever.”Psalm 119:89-90 - “Forever, O Lord, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens. Your faithfulness endures to all generations.”Malachi 3:6, "I the Lord do not change." James 1:17 - “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”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 love the words of Jesus. I've discovered that most people do, even non-believers. You can even purchase Bibles that only have the words of Jesus printed. It's been said that no one speaks like Jesus and I would agree. His words have power and they have life. These truths are encouraging, uplifting, inspiring, and challenging. They changed people's lives in the first century, and they are still changing lives today.  But you would have to agree that as much as we love the words of Jesus, we also recognize that Jesus said some hard things, some very hard things.Main Points:1. Today, as Christians, we view the cross as a symbol of forgiveness, grace, and love. But in Jesus' day, the cross represented nothing but torturous death. The Romans forced convicted criminals to carry their own crosses to the place of crucifixion.2. For the followers of Jesus, taking up our cross means “dying to self.” It's a call to absolute surrender. It means choosing Jesus above all things. It means putting him first and dying to our desires, ambitions, and worldly pleasures. Jesus said if we “lose our life, we will find it.” The reward for choosing Christ over everything else is matchless.3. We carry our cross and die to ourselves because Jesus alone is worthy. Today's Scripture Verses:Luke 9:23 - “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.”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 children of God are peacemakers.  A peacemaker is someone who intentionally works to help people reconcile with God and others.  Anyone who does the hard work of peacemaking will be blessed by God.Main Points:1. The word “peace” in Matthew 5:9 combines two Greek words.  Together they mean to bring about wholeness, to bring all the essential parts together in wholeness.2. Peace-making requires God's power.  Real and lasting peace is impossible to create without God's help.  You can't make what you don't have.  The only way to have inner peace is to make peace with God through faith in Jesus Christ.3. Peacemaking is such hard work that it's easier to say…. “I'm staying out it.”  We try and fail and get discouraged, so we give up.  But through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can all work to be peacemakers, and in doing so we are a reflection of God's character.  Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 5:9 - “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”Romans 5:1 - “Having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through the Lord Jesus Christ.”2 Corinthians chapter 5:18 -  “God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”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

God desires his church to be in tune with himself and with one another. Nothing interrupts the work of God and discredits the church like disunity. A church that is not in unity with God and one another is dysfunctional and ineffective. Disunity prohibits our message from being a beautiful sound to the community. But when a church comes together in unity, our message is compelling and contagious.Main Points:1. The goal is not unity in everything. Being humans, it's normal to have differing ideas and opinions. We won't always see eye to eye, and that's not a bad thing.2. The goal, as Paul tells us in Ephesians 4 is to make every effort to keep the “unity of the Spirit.”  When a group of believers comes together in unity around the scripture, the work of the Spirit, and the great commission, that church will have an impact for Christ.3. Let's unite around the purpose of God, the mission of the church, the inerrancy of scripture, the power of the Holy Spirit, and a prevailing love for one another. If we can commit to this kind of unity, we will be in tune with one another and together we will make beautiful music for the world to hear. Today's Scripture Verses:1 Corinthians 1:10 - “I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.”Ephesians 4:2-3 - “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”Psalm 133:1  - “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!”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 want you to acknowledge an important truth today. God's purpose for your life is greater than your ability to accomplish it. You need a power greater than your own. You can't fulfill God's purpose without God. You don't have enough strength, wisdom, creativity, or resources to do God's will all by yourself.Main Points:1. If you are a Christ-follower, it's likely you already know God wants to use your life. As you serve him, he has tasks for you to accomplish. Your life has a purpose. As you use the gifts, talents, abilities, time, and resources God has given you, your life is on mission for God.2. The God who calls us is the God who equips us. The God who gives us purpose also gives us power.3. We gain access to this power by praying and asking God to fill us with His Holy Spirit and then stepping out in faith and trusting God to use us with his power. God's power is activated when we are using the gifts God has given us.  Today's Scripture Verses:Acts 1:8 - “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”Ephesians 3:20 - “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,”2 Peter 1:3 - “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness.”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'd love to hear from you. What are your thoughts and questions?In this enlightening conversation, Attorney Blake Harris discusses the intricacies of offshore trusts and their advantages over domestic trusts. He shares his journey into the world of international asset protection, emphasizing the importance of understanding the differences between offshore and domestic trusts. Harris addresses common misconceptions about offshore trusts, highlighting their legitimacy and the regulatory frameworks that govern them. He also outlines who should consider setting up an offshore trust and the benefits of doing so, particularly for individuals with significant assets. The discussion further delves into the complexities involved in managing offshore trusts, including reporting requirements and the importance of choosing the right jurisdiction, with a focus on the Cook Islands as a preferred location for asset protection. Harris concludes by addressing the ethical considerations surrounding asset protection planning, advocating for proactive measures to secure one's financial future.Main Points:Offshore trusts provide greater asset protection than domestic trusts.The Cook Islands is a leading jurisdiction for offshore trusts.Understanding the complexities of offshore trusts is crucial for effective asset protection.Clients should consider offshore trusts if they have significant assets to protect.The cost of setting up an offshore trust can be justified by the long-term benefits.Networking and relationships are vital in the offshore trust industry.Regulatory frameworks in offshore jurisdictions can be more robust than in the U.S.Ethics in asset protection planning emphasize the importance of being proactive.Reporting requirements for offshore trusts are manageable with proper guidance.Education and awareness are key to dispelling myths about offshore trusts.Main Points:https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-harris-08a106b/Tiktok & instagram-@blakeharrislawblake@blakeharrislaw.comhttps://blakeharrislaw.com/

We are not God. We are not little gods, but we were created to be like God in character and lifestyle. Our lives should reflect the glory of God to others. When we do this, we are healthy and whole. The Bible describes this as holiness.Main Points:1. Our sin has distorted the image of God within us, and now we can't see ourselves as God sees us. We ascribe to labels the world places on us. We struggle with discovering our true identity.2. It is essential that you hear this message way down deep in your soul. Regardless of the circumstances of your conception, you were created by God. You were created for a purpose. Your life has meaning and value.3. To live the life God created and designed you to live, you must embrace the truth that you were created in the image of God. Your life is not an accident, a mistake, or an afterthought. Your life is important, and you are here today because of the will of God. Today's Scripture Verses:Genesis 1:26-27 - “Then God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us. They will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals on the earth, and the small animals that scurry along the ground.”  So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”Psalm 139:13-14 - “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.”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, prayer is always a whisper away. Prayer is communication with God, and we can live each minute of the day in a constant, flowing conversation with God. You don't need a special appointment to talk with God. You can do so, anywhere, and at any time. Main Points:1. There is significant value in making a specific time for prayer. In fact, I think that if we are not intentional about a time and a place for prayer, it's likely we won't be consistent in our prayer life.2. When you think of God's goodness and his blessings, you can have a spontaneous moment of praise and gratitude towards God. When you see a prayer request posted on Facebook, you can pause and bring that need to the Lord.3. What a blessing it is for you and me to have such access to God. It's truly amazing. The God of the universe, the God who has such power that He spoke and the world came into existence, this God gives you an audience. This God welcomes you into His presence. This God loves you and wants to hear from you. Today's Scripture Verses:1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”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

You and I are going to struggle with our humanity.  Surrender doesn't seem like a good idea to any of us. It feels like we are giving up and losing control, but when we surrender to God, we lose things we don't need to gain the things we really do.Main Points:1. Everything you need is on the other side of surrendering your life to God.2. Everything you need God can provide. Yet, often the provision doesn't come until we surrender to God. 3. God's plan is not about depriving us of good things. He delights to give His children good gifts. He also desires, above all else, for us to follow him and delight in him.  Sometimes God will make us sacrifice something we want to secure our hearts for the greatest good: Himself. Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 26:39 - “Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, 'My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”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 we have a proper heart for worship, we'll see that worship is not for us. Worship is for God. We worship for an audience of ONE!  He is the audience; we are not. As our hearts are directed in praise, adoration, gratitude, and love for God, in return, we experience joy.Main Points:1. Worship is the response of all that we are to all that God is.  To worship is to declare God's worth.2. While worshipping together with a group of believers is both biblical and important, we should recognize that worship is not something only to be done on Sundays in a church building. Worship is a lifestyle. As recipients of God's grace and mercy, we want to give him worship and praise every day and throughout the day.3. Do you have a heart for worship? Let me encourage you to include worship in your daily spiritual disciplines. Let it be a part of your daily time with the Lord. As you worship and honor the Lord, he is glorified, and you will be blessed.Today's Scripture Verses:Revelation 4:11 – “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.”Psalm 95:6 - Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!”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 believe God wants us to catch a vision of the importance of the church in our lives and community, and the church's role in fulfilling the mission of Jesus in our world.  God is at work in this world, and he has chosen to use the church as his agent.Main Points:1. The church, as a collection of people with hurts, hang-ups, hiccups, and habits, provides us an opportunity to learn and to grow. We learn to love those who are difficult to love. We learn to bear with one another. We learn to pray, to serve, to encourage, to develop patience, and yes, to forgive.2. The church provides a community for us so that we do not practice our faith alone. It's very difficult to grow spiritually all by yourself. You need other believers in your life, and they need you. Remember this: Friction is what sharpens an axe.3. The church provides my family the opportunity to worship with others, to hear God's Word taught and explained, to be encouraged, and to make a difference. While far from perfect, we are better together.Today's Scripture Verses:Genesis 2:18 - “It is not good for man to be alone.”Matthew 16:18 - “I will build my church, and the gates of hell will not overcome it.” 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'll spend the rest of our lives trying to understand God's love, but the best way to get started is to experience it. His love will change your life.Main Points:1. The world tells us that love is a feeling, something that comes and goes. Many marriages have ended because couples claim that they have “fallen out of love.” Some people say they don't feel God's love. Our feelings are fickle; they come and they go, but the truth remains: We are deeply loved by God, and that will never change.2. God's love is holy. His love is built upon his holiness and could not exist apart from it.3.  Here's what we know is true: God cannot overlook sin.  He will never contradict his own nature.  In his love, he doesn't overlook our sin; his love compelled him to provide for us a solution to our sin problem.Today's Scripture Verses:1 John 4:7-8 – “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.  Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”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 you and I know intuitively that rest is important for us. Not only is it important, but rest is also vital. Without rest, we are not at our best. Rest sharpens our soul, our mind, our body, and our spirit.Main Points:1. So, if God doesn't get tired, and he never needs to sleep, why did He rest? I believe God rested to set an example for us. Rest would not only be a physical necessity for us, but also a spiritual one.2. We need to see that rest is a gift from God. It's a blessing to receive, yet it seems so few of us take it seriously. 3. Like all spiritual disciplines, they are only done when we are intentional. You and I can do this. It's God's will for us to rest. As we do, we will find ourselves refreshed and renewed and more capable of doing what God has called us to do. You'll do more with rest than you will without it.Today's Scripture Verses:Genesis 2:2 - “By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work.”Isaiah 40:28 - “Do you not know?  Have you not heard?  The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary.”  Psalm 121:4 - (God) “will neither slumber nor sleep.”Psalm 127:2 - “It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.”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

Fear of the Lord is deep respect, awe, and reverence for God.  We give God the glory, honor, reverence, gratitude, and praise, he deserves.  God holds this preeminent position in our hearts and lives.  We regard his desires over and above our own.Main Points:1. We should fear or respect the Lord as one who has authority over us. It is a recognition that we are accountable to Him.  He is so great, He is so holy, He is so righteous, how can I not humble myself before him? How could I ever think that I know better than God? 2. The fear of the Lord causes us to repent of our pride and our selfishness. It brings us to a place of humility before the Lord.  It is a recognition of his holiness and greatness.3. Without the fear of the Lord, we make decisions based on our human understanding. But when we live with the fear of the Lord, we make decisions based upon His approval. We live with the knowledge that the Creator of the universe is intimately involved in our lives. He sees, knows, and evaluates all of our choices, and we will one day stand before him.Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 2:4 - “But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead.”Proverbs 19:10 - “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”  Proverbs 14:26 - “He who fears the Lord has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge” Proverbs 14:27 - “The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death” 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

An interruption can be God's tool to help us become more patient, more loving, and more understanding. It can be God's way of guiding our steps and pointing us in the right direction. Divine interruptions can be God's hand of protection in our lives when we are starting to move in the wrong direction. God's interruptions are always for a reason.Main Points:1. As you read the Gospels, you can't help but notice that Jesus was interrupted just about every day. There was always someone reaching out to him for healing, deliverance, provision, or simply a question. But then we see Jesus embracing the interruptions and serving those he came in contact with. For Jesus, the interruptions did not stop his ministry; the interruptions were his ministry.2. Divine interruptions remind us that our knowledge and perspective are very limited. We cannot see and know as much as God. So, we surrender to his plan, recognizing we serve a God who has all knowledge, and he knows what is best for us. So, if interruptions are God's plan for us, we must embrace them.3. Have you been interrupted lately? Has God closed a door that you were prepared to walk through? Trust that it is no accident. God has promised to direct your steps. His plans are always the best.Today's Scripture Verses:Proverbs 19:21 - “Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.”Proverbs 16:9 - “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”Romans 8:28 - “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”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