Podcasts about midianites

Today's chapter in Numbers (31) tells us about the death of Balaam and of those who accepted his counsel that the only way to combat the Israelites – was not by force – but by seducing them into immorality.  They took his advice and put it into practice and it had worked!  But now God acted!Our chapter starts, “The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, ‘Avenge the people of Israel….” Leading Moses to say, ‘Arm men from among you for war, that they may go against Midian to execute the LORD's vengeance” [v.1-3] The result is the kings of Midian are slain “and they also killed Balaam the son of Beor with the sword”We then read that it was “on Balaam's advice” [v.16] that the Midianites had sent in women that “caused the people of Israel to act treacherously against the LORD … and so the plague came among the congregation …”   So Balaam is killed and all those immoral leaders as Moses acted to “execute the Lord's vengeance.”This “vengeance” is seen many times in the Old Testament both against Israel's enemies and against Israel itself when they themselves lapsed into immorality.   The same applies to spiritual Israel. that is, those who claim to follow Christ but whose way of life brings dishonour to Christ's name, just as unfaithfulness by natural Israel brought dishonour to the LORD's name.How easy it seems to be for both Jews and Christians to deceive themselves into thinking God will not deal with them when they slip into immoral ways of living.  Balaam of all people, who had had such contact with God, as we read in chapters 22 to 24 should have had a fear of God!  But ‘No'!Sadly the history of Christianity shows too many examples of similar failures. Look back at some blunt words of Paul we read last week in Galatians!  “Do not be deceived God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.  For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.   And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” [6 v7-9]Balaam sowed the seeds of his own destruction although he had had so much contact with the true God.  A lesson to us – what are we sowing?  What will we reap?

In Judges chapter 6, Gideon is found threshing wheat in a winepress because of the years of oppression at the hand of the Midianites. In this powerful message, Ps. Jurgen encourages us not to co-exist with idols and to find the warrior in the winepress. 

In this sermon, Pastor Dorrell explores Judges chapter 8, recounting Gideon's victory over the Midianites with just 300 men and the complex contradictions in his leadership. Despite triumphing in battle, Gideon's actions reveal the dangers of complacency, pride, and situational ethics. Pastor Dorrell emphasizes the importance of unwavering faith, dependence on God, and the consequences of withholding support. This message challenges us to remain vigilant, grateful, and aligned with God's purposes, even in times of success.Eastland is a Place to Belong Eastland Baptist Church is located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We are a welcoming and close-knit family community that loves to care for each other through the Church. We strongly believe in loving and supporting each other and our neighbors. Our members don't just attend our Church; they feel a strong sense of belonging. Join Us Find service times and our location at https://www.eastlandbaptist.org/join. Connect with Us Website: https://www.eastlandbaptist.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eastlandbaptisttulsa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eastlandbaptist To support the ministry of Eastland Baptist Church, tap here: https://www.eastlandbaptist.org/give.

Israel has just defeated Midian and they entire community is getting ready to cross the Jordan into the Promised Land and begin their military campaign against the inhabitants of the land. When the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manassah, see that the land of the Midianites is good for cattle, they ask if they can settle there. Moses wrongly assumes that they are trying to avoid going to war with their brothers, opting instead to settle outside of the Promised Land and break rank from the others. By the end of the conversation, they cut a deal with Moses, assuring him that they, too, will go to war with the rest of Israel before coming back to settle in the land. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In today's reading from Judges, Fr. Mike talk about Gideon's story, and points out how the people began to worship the object Gideon had created to glorify God, instead of worshipping the living God. In Ruth, he highlights the role of kinsman-redeemer and how Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of that role. Today's readings are Judges 6-8, Ruth 3, and Psalm 135. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

God is giving Moses final instructions to hand down to the Israelites because Moses is about to die at the Lord's hand. Our reading opens with instructions on three festivals which are to be held in the seventh month. This is followed by instructions on how one should consider the validity of vows made to the Lord under different conditions. Finally, God instructs Moses to go to war with Midianites as retribution for the Peor incident, when the women incited the men of Israel to sleep with them in worship to their fertility god, Baal. Turns out that was led by Balaam, the same Balaam who spoke oracles from the Lord against Moab. Balaam is slaughtered along with the Midianites, and after defeating Midian, Israel begins to divide the spoils of war. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In Judges chapter 6, Gideon is found threshing wheat in a winepress because of the years of oppression at the hand of the Midianites. In this powerful message, Ps. Jurgen uses this story to show us that we can easily settle for far less than God's best if we allow our circumstances and life experiences to shape & determine our belief systems.

Learn more & support the our work at www.arbelministries.com - - - In this episode of the podcast, we explore the powerful and often difficult themes of judgment, purification, and obedience found in Numbers 31. As we examine the Israelites' battle against the Midianites and the subsequent purification process, we wrestle with the harsh realities of divine justice and the complexity of God's commands. What can we learn from these challenging passages about holiness, purity, and the cost of disobedience? Join us as we reflect on the painful yet necessary process of spiritual purification, both for the Israelites and for us today. This thought-provoking episode invites us to engage deeply with Scripture, challenge our perceptions, and seek understanding in the midst of uncomfortable truths. - - - Intro/Outro Music "Raga Dance Of Music" by Aakash Gandhi - https://soundcloud.com/user-363764097/raga-dance-of-music | Creative Commons (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0) - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/

In this Bible Story, Gideon leads Israel's people into victory over the Midianites with only 300 men. Peace then reigns in the land for over forty years. This story is inspired by Judges 7-8. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Judges 7:7 from the King James Version.Episode 63: The once cowardly Gideon is now commander of a rather large Israelite army. So large in fact, that God refuses to use the whole army, lest they think it was their might that saved the day. Soon God had whittled down the army to a mere 300 men and with that 300 men we see a reminder that it is not by our might but by God's that rescue and salvation happen.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.This episode is sponsored by Medi-Share, an innovative health care solution for Christians to save money without sacrificing quality.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bible Story, Gideon, a cowardly and weak man, finds strength in God. He is filled with enough bravery to summon an army against the Midianite horde and go into battle. This story is inspired by Judges 6. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Judges 6:37 from the King James Version.Episode 62: Israel lived in peace for a time, worshiping God for his rescue of their lives but slowly the worship of idols again invaded their worship and as it did, so did the darkness of oppression. Midianites soon began pillaging and plaguing the Israelites, so much so that they needed to hide their food under tents and in wine presses. In one of these wine presses stood the man who God would use to save Israel, Gideon, a man who teaches us that God can use the weakest and most self-doubting person to accomplish His will and save His people.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a text“Because of the Midianites, the children of Israel made for themselves the dens, the caves, and the strongholds which are in the mountains. So it was, whenever Israel had sown, Midianites would come up; also Amalekites and the people of the East would come up against them. Then they would encamp against them and destroy the produce of the earth as far as Gaza, and leave no sustenance for Israel, neither sheep nor ox nor donkey. For they would come up with their livestock and their tents, coming in as numerous as locusts; both they and their camels were without number; and they would enter the land to destroy it. So Israel was greatly impoverished because of the Midianites, and the children of Israel cried out to the Lord” (Judges 6:2-6).“Thus Midian was subdued before the children of Israel, so that they lifted their heads no more. And the country was quiet for forty years in the days of Gideon” (Judges 8:28).Written and sent out from the morning prayer time of Tommy Hays each day.God bless you and may you have a great day!—Tommy Hays | Messiah Ministrieshttp://messiah-ministries.org

Trapped – Week #1 – March 23, 2025 Trapped in the Pit Judges 6:1-14 Nobody likes feeling trapped The Israelites did evil in the  Lord's sight. So the  Lord  handed them over to the Midianites for seven years.  2  The Midianites were so cruel that the Israelites made hiding places for themselves in the mountains, […]

In Numbers 31, God commands Moses to take vengeance on the Midianites for leading Israel into sin through the events recorded in Numbers 25 (when the Israelites engaged in idolatry and immorality with Midianite women). After this battle, God tells Moses that his death will follow, making this one of his final acts as Israel's leader. Key Events: 1.The Command to Go to War (vv. 1–6): God tells Moses to mobilize 1,000 men from each tribe—12,000 in total—for battle against Midian. Phinehas, the zealous priest, leads the spiritual aspect of the battle, carrying the holy articles and trumpets.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

Numbers 25 describes a significant event in Israel's history during their wilderness journey. It details how the Israelites, near the land of Moab, fell into idolatry and immorality, provoking God's anger and leading to severe judgment. The chapter also introduces Phinehas, a priest whose zeal for God's holiness played a key role in stopping a deadly plague. 1. The Sin of Israel (Numbers 25:1-3) “And Israel abode in Shittim, and the people began to commit whoredom with the daughters of Moab. And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat, and bowed down to their gods. And Israel joined himself unto Baal-peor: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel.” (Numbers 25:1-3, KJV) The Israelites were camped at Shittim, near Moab, before entering the Promised Land. While there, they engaged in sexual immorality with Moabite women, which led them to worship Baal-peor, a pagan god. Their idolatry and disobedience angered God, as they had broken their covenant with Him. 2. God's Judgment and the Plague (Numbers 25:4-9) “And the LORD said unto Moses, Take all the heads of the people, and hang them up before the LORD against the sun, that the fierce anger of the LORD may be turned away from Israel.” (Numbers 25:4) In response to Israel's sin, God commanded Moses to execute those who had participated in idolatry and immorality. A severe plague struck the nation as a divine punishment. While Israel mourned the destruction, an Israelite man named Zimri openly brought a Midianite woman named Cozbi into his tent in defiance of God's command. Phinehas, the grandson of Aaron, acted decisively by taking a spear and killing both Zimri and Cozbi, stopping the plague. His swift action demonstrated his commitment to God's holiness. The plague ended after this, but by then, 24,000 Israelites had already died. 3. Phinehas' Reward (Numbers 25:10-13) “Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, hath turned my wrath away from the children of Israel… Wherefore say, Behold, I give unto him my covenant of peace.” (Numbers 25:11-12) God commended Phinehas for his zeal and granted him a covenant of peace. This covenant ensured that his descendants would always serve as priests. His action symbolized Israel's return to righteousness by purging sin from the camp. 4. The Midianites Become Enemies (Numbers 25:14-18) “Vex the Midianites, and smite them: For they vex you with their wiles, wherewith they have beguiled you in the matter of Peor…” (Numbers 25:17-18) Zimri, the Israelite man, and Cozbi, the Midianite woman, were leaders in their communities. Because of their role in leading Israel into sin, God commanded Israel to attack the Midianites. This set the stage for later conflicts between Israel and Midian. Lessons from Numbers 25 The story highlights the dangers of compromise. Israel's downfall began with a small compromise—associating with pagan nations—which led to full idolatry and divine judgment. God's holiness and justice are emphasized, showing that He does not tolerate sin, especially when His people turn away from Him. The passage also illustrates the importance of zeal for righteousness. Phinehas demonstrated that taking a stand for God's truth can restore His favor. Lastly, the consequences of sin are evident, as seen in the severe plague that claimed 24,000 lives. Conclusion Numbers 25 is a warning against spiritual and moral compromise. It highlights how Israel fell into sin through idolatry and immorality, leading to divine judgment. However, it also shows that repentance and zeal for God's holiness can restore His favor. The legacy of Phinehas serves as an example of standing against unrighteousness in a world that constantly tempts God's people to stray.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

A Reformed Baptist Church in Chilliwack, B.C. Committed to preaching Christ and Him crucified. Host of the "Confessing the Faith" annual conference.Pastors Jim Butler and Cam Porter

Hosts Pastor Robert Baltodano and Pastor Lloyd Pulley Question Timestamps: Wendy, Facebook (2:48) - What happened to the spoils that God commanded the Israelites to take from the Midianites in Numbers 31? David, NY (4:21) - Is Revelation 9 a description of demonic activity being let loose on the Earth, or is it a description of something that has always been? Notta, Facebook (7:41) - What is the message I should be taking away from Judges 19-20 about the Levite and his concubine? Catherine, HI (11:27) - Where does it say in the Bible, that you are supposed to give your child back to the Lord after he grows up? Brian, email (13:36) - Why am I struggling with the same old sins? Will being baptized bring me closer to Christ and free me from my struggles with these sins? Jesse, email (16:56) - How can I deal with someone in my workplace that says they do not believe in God? Michael, Facebook (18:39) - Can you explain Isaiah 43:11? Carmen, YouTube (19:55) - How and why did the Catholic Church add purgatory to their beliefs? Stacey, email (24:57) - Can you suggest a good app for Bible studies for boys or kids aged ten and over? Also what books would you recommend for Bible study for this age group? Isaiah, YouTube (27:27) - What would you recommend for someone that has generalized anxiety disorder? Ally, NJ (36:54) - How can or does God empower you? Ronnie, FL (40:39) - Do we need to repent before we can have faith in the cross? Mike, Facebook (45:34) - What is your take on the Charismatic Catholic Church? Are they saved and do they preach the Bible? Anthony, NY (49:13) - Is sleep paralysis demonic? How soon will they build the third temple? Ask Your Question: 888-712-7434 Answers@bbtlive.org

THE BOOK OF RUTH| GOD'S RESTORATION PLAN| Faith in Famine| Decisions Shape Destinies|Session-6 2025| CHIMDI OHAHUNA We are thrilled to announce a profound new series in our study program for the year: THE BOOK OF RUTH . This remarkable Book poignantly reveals God's restoration agenda for every believer. Our journey beginsby diving deep into the reasons behind Elimelech's family's move from Bethlehem to Moab, a decision shaped by a time of famine in the house of bread itself—Bethlehem—a stark contrast to the plenty of Moab (Judges 6:3-4; Ruth 1:1-5). The forces represented by the Moabites, Amalekites, Midianites, and the children of the East stand as stark reminders of the battles we face today—those forces keen on destroying the seeds planted in our lives and robbing us of our harvest. When the food basket of Israel suffers, where do we find hope? The only answer is in God. In this enlightening episode, we will explore the transformative journey of living life in the Spirit, embracing a reality that transcends traditional religious devotion. Discover via this teaching the profound truth that our lives are intricately designed to embody God's perfect, acceptable, and good will, empowering us to reveal His divine purpose through every choice we make. Join us as we delve into how the blessings of living in the Spirit far exceed the confines of mere devotion. While the Old Testament contains written words, we, as New Testament believers, possess the Living Word—Jesus Christ—within us. This incredible relationship makes our lives easier and enables us to walk free from burdens, guiding us through every twist and turn of our existence. This teaching challenges the misleading notion that God is indifferent to the intricate details of our lives—any doctrine suggesting such is not only erroneous but fundamentally satanic. Instead, we will emphasize the necessity of seeking divine direction over human provision, drawing from the poignant example of Elimelech, who let fear guide him instead of faith and ultimately faced dire consequences in Moab. As New Creations in Christ, each one of us is blessed with the gentle guidance of the Holy Spirit, who leads us in alignment with God's perfect will. Discover how attuning ourselves to the Holy Spirit can radically transform our decision-making processes, arming us with confidence and clarity to navigate life's complexities. Are you ready to embrace a Spirit-led life? Join us for insightful teaching sessions that promise to inspire you to live out God's purpose in a world rife with attractions and distractions. We invite you to join this enriching journey and encourage you not to miss a single session of this podcast series. Subscribe to the GRACELIFECOMI PODCAST channel today and deepen your understanding of the Word of God. Grace to you! Jesus is Lord.

Pastor Cana opens to Judges 6:11-17, where God calls Gideon to save the Israelites from oppression under the Midianites. God does not need you to be brave, important, impressive, or strong. God only needs you to say yes to His calling. Come see God's calling in your life and the lives of others, regardless of qualification.

Can the simple act of watching cartoons with a child transform your life? Discover the profound ways faith adds depth to everyday moments, as we explore personal stories of growth and presence in our relationships with family and community. As we share insights from "Mighty Like Gideon," you'll learn the significance of being spiritually prepared to navigate the challenges that can arise, even within the walls of the church, and how embracing spiritual disciplines can lead to vivid transformations.Join us as we highlight the often-overlooked strength that comes from collective spiritual warfare. By drawing parallels to Gideon's biblical triumph over the Midianites, we argue that true success in spiritual battles lies not in solitary efforts but in unity and shared faith practices. This episode challenges prevailing cultural norms of individualism, underscoring the power of community in achieving victory over spiritual adversities. Kathy and I reveal how learning from the unity of forces of evil can inspire us to foster stronger connections within faith-driven groups.Key Takeaways:Harness the Power of Group Dynamics: Spiritual warfare is best confronted collectively, as it involves forces that operate in groups.Ephesians 6:12 is Key: This scripture reveals the importance of collective struggle in defeating dark powers, often overlooked by individuals.Gideon's Example: The story of Gideon exemplifies the effectiveness of group action and the necessity of unified faith to achieve divine victories.Individualism vs. Collectivism: The struggle of modern believers often stems from an overemphasis on individual faith at the expense of community.Leadership and Community: Embrace community leadership and collective faith to experience the full promise of more life and more faith.Looking for more? Join our More Faith More Life community: https://morefaithmorelife.comAbout the host: Steve Gray is the founding and senior pastor of Revive Church KC. He has been in the full time ministry for over 40 years and was launched into national and international recognition in the late 1990's as the leader of the historic Smithton Outpouring, and again in 2009 when he led the Kansas City Revival which was televised nationally on the Daystar television network. Steve is also a veteran musician, songwriter, recording artist and published author. His books include When The Kingdom Comes, Follow The Fire, My Absurd Religion, If You Only Knew, and Mighty Like Gideon.

Pastor Jeremy | BFBC-Glendive | Sunday 2 Thessalonians 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with you all. ● Calmness, quietness, tranquility ● Lack of fighting or war ● Well-being and fullness of life. John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27 (NLT) “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid. John 14:27 (MSG) I'm leaving you well and whole. That's my parting gift to you. Peace. I don't leave you the way you're used to being left—feeling abandoned, bereft. So don't be upset. Don't be distraught. John 14:27 (Amp C) Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.] Judges 6:24 - Gideon - The Lord is Peace ● Gideon was cowardly, unsettled, intimidated, and fearful before the presence of God showed up. ● After peace came...Gideon was still oppressed by the Midianites and his family still worshiping false gods...but he was no longer cowardly, unsettled, intimidated, or fearful. Peter ● John 13 Peter says he'll never deny Jesus ● John 18 Peter denies Jesus ● John 21:19 Peter is restored and told “follow me” ● Acts 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, etc. Peter not moved by crowds, the call, persecution, ignorance...he is no longer cowardly, unsettled, intimidated, or fearful. ● Gal 2 we see Peter has slipped back into a little bit of his old self and Paul calls him out.

Genesis 371 Jacob lived in the land where his father had stayed, the land of Canaan.2 This is the account of Jacob's family line. Joseph, a young man of seventeen, was tending the flocks with his brothers, the sons of Bilhah and the sons of Zilpah, his father's wives, and he brought their father a bad report about them.3 Now Israel loved Joseph more than any of his other sons, because he had been born to him in his old age; and he made an ornate robe for him. 4 When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him.5 Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more. 6 He said to them, “Listen to this dream I had: 7 We were binding sheaves of grain out in the field when suddenly my sheaf rose and stood upright, while your sheaves gathered around mine and bowed down to it.”8 His brothers said to him, “Do you intend to reign over us? Will you actually rule us?” And they hated him all the more because of his dream and what he had said.9 Then he had another dream, and he told it to his brothers. “Listen,” he said, “I had another dream, and this time the sun and moon and eleven stars were bowing down to me.”10 When he told his father as well as his brothers, his father rebuked him and said, “What is this dream you had? Will your mother and I and your brothers actually come and bow down to the ground before you?” 11 His brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the matter in mind.12 Now his brothers had gone to graze their father's flocks near Shechem, 13 and Israel said to Joseph, “As you know, your brothers are grazing the flocks near Shechem. Come, I am going to send you to them.” “Very well,” he replied.14 So he said to him, “Go and see if all is well with your brothers and with the flocks, and bring word back to me.” Then he sent him off from the Valley of Hebron. When Joseph arrived at Shechem, 15 a man found him wandering around in the fields and asked him, “What are you looking for?”16 He replied, “I'm looking for my brothers. Can you tell me where they are grazing their flocks?”17 “They have moved on from here,” the man answered. “I heard them say, ‘Let's go to Dothan.'” So Joseph went after his brothers and found them near Dothan. 18 But they saw him in the distance, and before he reached them, they plotted to kill him.19 “Here comes that dreamer!” they said to each other. 20 “Come now, let's kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns and say that a ferocious animal devoured him. Then we'll see what comes of his dreams.”21 When Reuben heard this, he tried to rescue him from their hands. “Let's not take his life,” he said. 22 “Don't shed any blood. Throw him into this cistern here in the wilderness, but don't lay a hand on him.” Reuben said this to rescue him from them and take him back to his father.23 So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe—the ornate robe he was wearing— 24 and they took him and threw him into the cistern. The cistern was empty; there was no water in it.25 As they sat down to eat their meal, they looked up and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. Their camels were loaded with spices, balm and myrrh, and they were on their way to take them down to Egypt.26 Judah said to his brothers, “What will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? 27 Come, let's sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him; after all, he is our brother, our own flesh and blood.” His brothers agreed.28 So when the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph up out of the cistern and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.29 When Reuben returned to the cistern and saw that Joseph was not there, he tore his clothes. 30 He went back to his brothers and said, “The boy isn't there! Where can I turn now?”31 Then they got Joseph's robe, slaughtered a goat and dipped the robe in the blood. 32 They took the ornate robe back to their father and said, “We found this. Examine it to see whether it is your son's robe.”33 He recognized it and said, “It is my son's robe! Some ferocious animal has devoured him. Joseph has surely been torn to pieces.”34 Then Jacob tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and mourned for his son many days. 35 All his sons and daughters came to comfort him, but he refused to be comforted. “No,” he said, “I will continue to mourn until I join my son in the grave.” So his father wept for him.36 Meanwhile, the Midianites sold Joseph in Egypt to Potiphar, one of Pharaoh's officials, the captain of the guard.

Still in the Nation Era, we dive into the time of the Judges, a period marked by a cycle of rebellion and deliverance. We explore the significance of the judges and their role as leaders and deliverers of the nation, empowered by God. The episode delves into the consequences of Israel's disobedience, their abandonment of God, and the worship of false gods. We also focus on the story of Gideon, a notable judge who experienced God's miraculous intervention in defeating the Midianites through just 300 men. Despite judges raised up by God to deliver the people, the cycle of rebellion and deliverance continues.Bible ReadingsJudges 1:27-36Judges 2:1-23Judges 7:1-23Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @biblelitTwitter: @bible_litFacebook: @biblelitEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgOur sessions use various translations including the ESV, BSB, CSB, NASB,...

When trouble is on the horizon, it can be hard to trust in God's promises, and to believe He has a plan for us.The book of Judges in the Old Testament gives us an awesome example of trusting God in the story of Gideon.God called Gideon to lead Israel into battle with the Midianites, who had a sizable army of 135,000 men. Gideon gathered an army of 32,000 men to battle with the Midianites, but despite odds in favor of the enemy, God told Gideon there were too many men in his army. Through a selection process, God whittled the Israelite army down to just 300 men.Though Gideon was afraid, he trusted God to fulfill His promise. And God told Gideon they needed a smaller army so people would know God won the battle—and not some large army.The night of the battle, Gideon and his servant snuck into the camp of the enemy and overheard the telling of a dream. The two Midianites interpreted the dream to mean that Gideon's small army would wipe out their larger army.Reassured, Gideon returned to camp to begin the battle. The Midianites were so frightened, many of them began fighting and killing one another, thinking that Gideon's army was all around them.Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.”Gideon trusted God's plan, even when he didn't understand. Because of his faith, God helped Gideon and the Israelites to conquer the Midianites with an army a fraction of the size of the enemy's.Let's pray.Lord, you are mighty to save. Help us to trust you in every battle. We love you, and believe you have a plan for us. Give us courage to face the challenges in our lives, knowing you are here with us, and you have a good plan. In Jesus' name, amen.Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Gideon is a son of Joash from the tribe of Manasseh, one of Joseph's two sons. He is beating the grain in a wine press, hiding his efforts from his enemy. It is here an angel appears to Gideon. He responds to the angel by asking why the Lord has forsaken the Midianites, his people. This is a feeling many of us can resonate with. Whether in times of personal tragedy, financial ruin, torn apart families, a cancer diagnosis, or a desolation of one's community or country. We sense the absence of His presence. However, the great irony is that God has not forgotten or forsaken his people. In fact, he has come to save them and calls upon Gideon in this effort. Gideon says that he and his clan are not able. In reality, none of us who have been up for this task, but that's the point. Only God is able. The Midianites leave victorious because of their trust in the name of the Lord. In Gideon we can see that God meets us and can use us even when we don't recognize his calling, when we feel the least qualified, when we're uncertain despite his promises, when we're fearful of others, and when we doubt his resources.

“Blessed” is “Makarios” To be Supremely Blessed - fortunate - well off & happy Matthew 5:1-2When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a hill and sat down. His followers came to him, and he began to teach them, saying: “Saying” is “Lego” to properly relate words in a systematic way thru a preplanned discourse… Blessed are those who hunger & thirst for… Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see… Blessed are the peacemakers they'll be called the…” Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit…  Job 8:7 CEBAlthough your former state was ordinary, your future will be extraordinary. Judges 6:11-12 NIVThe angel of the Lord came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites. When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.” Judges 6:13 NIV“Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our ancestors told us about when they said, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up out of Egypt?' But now the Lord has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian.” Judges 6:14 NIVThe Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian's hand. Am I not sending you?” Matthew 7:24-25 NIV“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.  Matthew 7:26-27 NIV But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

“Blessed” is “Makarios” To be Supremely Blessed - fortunate - well off & happy Matthew 5:1-2When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a hill and sat down. His followers came to him, and he began to teach them, saying: “Saying” is “Lego” to properly relate words in a systematic way thru a preplanned discourse… Blessed are those who hunger & thirst for… Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see… Blessed are the peacemakers they'll be called the…” Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit…  Job 8:7 CEBAlthough your former state was ordinary, your future will be extraordinary. Judges 6:11-12 NIVThe angel of the Lord came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites. When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.” Judges 6:13 NIV“Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our ancestors told us about when they said, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up out of Egypt?' But now the Lord has abandoned us and given us into the hand of Midian.” Judges 6:14 NIVThe Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian's hand. Am I not sending you?” Matthew 7:24-25 NIV“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.  Matthew 7:26-27 NIV But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

Genesis 39 tells of the Midianites selling Joseph to Potiphar, who was the captain – or “chief” of Pharaoh's body guard. He was probably a eunuch and therefore although his wife had a high social status in Egyptian society, nevertheless some of her desires could not be met by her husband. Being an intelligent and diligent young man Joseph soon rose to chief servant in the household. He was also an attractive young man, who Potiphar's wife found most desirable. Joseph was a young man with great integrity, who realised that everything we do Is before the eyes of the LORD; and sin is firstly against Him (regardless of anyone else that might be affected) – Psalm 51:4. And so after frequently resisting her advances he wisely found a strategy to avoid being near her in the absence of others. Finally she trapped him; but Joseph fled after she had pulled his clothes off. Mrs Potiphar now felt scorned and determined to seek revenge. She kept his clothes to support her false story about Joseph's supposed attempts to seduce her. And when Potiphar came home he was enraged by her word which he chose to believe. Joseph was cast into a prison where the special prisoners of Pharaoh were kept. Verse 21 importantly tells us that Yahweh's care and providence were still with Joseph, as he rose to prominence and was given important roles in the prison. The LORD had a purpose in these events to teach Joseph patience and to ultimately bring him to a position of power in Egypt. Chapter 40 tells us how this was to happen. In the prison Joseph befriended the former chief baker and the previous chief butler of Pharaoh. They both had strange dreams on the same night. Joseph persuaded them to tell their dreams to him. The common thread in both dreams told of their fate in 3 more days – the butler would be restored to Pharaoh's service and the baker hung. Joseph asked that the butler remember him once his office had been restored. But, alas, he forgot until God caused Pharaoh to dream 2 puzzling dreams in one night. Pharaoh's dreams were centred around unusual events that focused on the number 7. But that will be discussed in tomorrow's readings in chapter 41 of our story. Psalm 44 is a Psalm in which the writer speaks of Yahweh's past dealings with His people; and what this had taught them. It outlines suffering followed by favour. In hardship the people of God learn more than they do in prosperity. They learnt to depend on their Sovereign and to place their trust in Him. Despite massive setbacks and intense persecution, where they felt that they were merely sheep awaiting slaughter, they found strength to overcome and, more than that, to in fact emerge triumphant. Verses 8-11 are quoted by the Apostle Paul in Romans 8 (which centres on our victory through our Lord Jesus Christ) – verses 35-37 is Paul's summary. Experience, says the Psalmist, is best understood through trials. It teaches us that in our weakened and downcast state we have been readied for rolling ourselves upon our God; who is mighty to help and save us. There is no other greater Helper to support us (though friends may be of great help also at times). The Psalm finished with a plea for our Almighty God to rise for our deliverance and that He should be praised and thanked for this. We can be assured of His care, compassion and loving kindness that compels Him to action on behalf of His children. cont reading here https://christadelphianvideo.org/thoughts-on-the-readings-for-january-24th-genesis-39-40-psalm-44-matthew-26/ Penned by Warwick Rosser and his team, produced by Christadelphianvideo.org

Hosts Pastor Robert Baltodano and Pastor Lloyd Pulley Question Timestamps: Rafael, NY (1:46) - Why doesn't Matthew 17:21 exist in some Bibles? Luis, CA (4:16) - Do you believe in the Rapture? Where does the Bible mention the Rapture? Nelsun, Facebook (8:19) - Why does John 1:1 refer to Jesus as “the Word?” Winston, FL (9:51) - When Moses commands the Israelites to kill the women and children of the Midianites, does that make him one of the most deplorable people? Ronny, TN (15:23) - When a baby passes away, are they always a baby in heaven? How do I answer the question of “why did my baby grandchild die?” Vicki, Facebook (20:44) - Is it wrong to attend Catholic Church regularly when you are born again? PookieEL777, YouTube (24:13) - Will the events of Zephaniah 3:14-20 happen in our lifetime? Jodie, Facebook (26:16) - Where does the Bible say that praying to saints is praying to demons? Maddy, NJ (33:31) - Can people be demon-possessed today? Riley, TX (36:22) - Are the 144,000 of Zion the set number of Christians that will make it into heaven? Was Judas possessed, even though he was filled with Christ? William, FL (43:09) - What did Jesus mean by “go into the secret room and pray?” What is different about going to the “upper room?” Is there relevance to the fact that the pigs killed themselves after Jesus sent the demons into them? Debbie, YouTube (49:58) - Can you explain Matthew 5:39? Maheet, NJ (54:22) - What is the point of the whole Bible? Ask Your Questions: 888-712-7434 Answers@bbtlive.org

This chapter highlights God's victory over the Midianites with 300 hundred Israelite men.

Recognizing the absence of a God named Yahweh outside of ancient Israel, this study addresses the related questions of Yahweh's origins and the biblical claim that there were Yahweh-worshipers other than the Israelite people. Beginning with the Hebrew Bible, with an exhaustive survey of ancient Near Eastern literature and inscriptions discovered by archaeology, and using anthropology to reconstruct religious practices and beliefs of ancient Edom and Midian, this study proposes an answer. Yahweh-worshiping Midianites of the Early Iron Age brought their deity along with metallurgy into ancient Palestine and the Israelite people. Join us as we talk with Robert Miller about his latest book, Yahweh: Origin of a Desert God (Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2021). Robert Miller, II, O.F.S., Ph.D., is Ordinary Professor of Old Testament and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at The Catholic University of America. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus(Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus(IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption(IVP Academic, 2020). He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Recognizing the absence of a God named Yahweh outside of ancient Israel, this study addresses the related questions of Yahweh's origins and the biblical claim that there were Yahweh-worshipers other than the Israelite people. Beginning with the Hebrew Bible, with an exhaustive survey of ancient Near Eastern literature and inscriptions discovered by archaeology, and using anthropology to reconstruct religious practices and beliefs of ancient Edom and Midian, this study proposes an answer. Yahweh-worshiping Midianites of the Early Iron Age brought their deity along with metallurgy into ancient Palestine and the Israelite people. Join us as we talk with Robert Miller about his latest book, Yahweh: Origin of a Desert God (Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2021). Robert Miller, II, O.F.S., Ph.D., is Ordinary Professor of Old Testament and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at The Catholic University of America. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus(Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus(IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption(IVP Academic, 2020). He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Recognizing the absence of a God named Yahweh outside of ancient Israel, this study addresses the related questions of Yahweh's origins and the biblical claim that there were Yahweh-worshipers other than the Israelite people. Beginning with the Hebrew Bible, with an exhaustive survey of ancient Near Eastern literature and inscriptions discovered by archaeology, and using anthropology to reconstruct religious practices and beliefs of ancient Edom and Midian, this study proposes an answer. Yahweh-worshiping Midianites of the Early Iron Age brought their deity along with metallurgy into ancient Palestine and the Israelite people. Join us as we talk with Robert Miller about his latest book, Yahweh: Origin of a Desert God (Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2021). Robert Miller, II, O.F.S., Ph.D., is Ordinary Professor of Old Testament and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at The Catholic University of America. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus(Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus(IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption(IVP Academic, 2020). He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/jewish-studies

Recognizing the absence of a God named Yahweh outside of ancient Israel, this study addresses the related questions of Yahweh's origins and the biblical claim that there were Yahweh-worshipers other than the Israelite people. Beginning with the Hebrew Bible, with an exhaustive survey of ancient Near Eastern literature and inscriptions discovered by archaeology, and using anthropology to reconstruct religious practices and beliefs of ancient Edom and Midian, this study proposes an answer. Yahweh-worshiping Midianites of the Early Iron Age brought their deity along with metallurgy into ancient Palestine and the Israelite people. Join us as we talk with Robert Miller about his latest book, Yahweh: Origin of a Desert God (Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2021). Robert Miller, II, O.F.S., Ph.D., is Ordinary Professor of Old Testament and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at The Catholic University of America. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus(Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus(IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption(IVP Academic, 2020). He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/middle-eastern-studies

Recognizing the absence of a God named Yahweh outside of ancient Israel, this study addresses the related questions of Yahweh's origins and the biblical claim that there were Yahweh-worshipers other than the Israelite people. Beginning with the Hebrew Bible, with an exhaustive survey of ancient Near Eastern literature and inscriptions discovered by archaeology, and using anthropology to reconstruct religious practices and beliefs of ancient Edom and Midian, this study proposes an answer. Yahweh-worshiping Midianites of the Early Iron Age brought their deity along with metallurgy into ancient Palestine and the Israelite people. Join us as we talk with Robert Miller about his latest book, Yahweh: Origin of a Desert God (Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2021). Robert Miller, II, O.F.S., Ph.D., is Ordinary Professor of Old Testament and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at The Catholic University of America. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus(Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus(IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption(IVP Academic, 2020). He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/archaeology

Recognizing the absence of a God named Yahweh outside of ancient Israel, this study addresses the related questions of Yahweh's origins and the biblical claim that there were Yahweh-worshipers other than the Israelite people. Beginning with the Hebrew Bible, with an exhaustive survey of ancient Near Eastern literature and inscriptions discovered by archaeology, and using anthropology to reconstruct religious practices and beliefs of ancient Edom and Midian, this study proposes an answer. Yahweh-worshiping Midianites of the Early Iron Age brought their deity along with metallurgy into ancient Palestine and the Israelite people. Join us as we talk with Robert Miller about his latest book, Yahweh: Origin of a Desert God (Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2021). Robert Miller, II, O.F.S., Ph.D., is Ordinary Professor of Old Testament and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at The Catholic University of America. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus(Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus(IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption(IVP Academic, 2020). He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recognizing the absence of a God named Yahweh outside of ancient Israel, this study addresses the related questions of Yahweh's origins and the biblical claim that there were Yahweh-worshipers other than the Israelite people. Beginning with the Hebrew Bible, with an exhaustive survey of ancient Near Eastern literature and inscriptions discovered by archaeology, and using anthropology to reconstruct religious practices and beliefs of ancient Edom and Midian, this study proposes an answer. Yahweh-worshiping Midianites of the Early Iron Age brought their deity along with metallurgy into ancient Palestine and the Israelite people. Join us as we talk with Robert Miller about his latest book, Yahweh: Origin of a Desert God (Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2021). Robert Miller, II, O.F.S., Ph.D., is Ordinary Professor of Old Testament and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at The Catholic University of America. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus(Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus(IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption(IVP Academic, 2020). He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Numbers 31:13-20,13 Moses and Eleazar the priest and all the chiefs of the congregation went to meet them outside the camp. 14 And Moses was angry with the officers of the army, the commanders of thousands and the commanders of hundreds, who had come from service in the war. 15 Moses said to them, “Have you let all the women live? 16 Behold, these, on Balaam's advice, caused the people of Israel to act treacherously against the Lord in the incident of Peor, and so the plague came among the congregation of the Lord. 17 Now therefore, kill every male among the little ones, and kill every woman who has known man by lying with him. 18 But all the young girls who have not known man by lying with him keep alive for yourselves. 19 Encamp outside the camp seven days. Whoever of you has killed any person and whoever has touched any slain, purify yourselves and your captives on the third day and on the seventh day. 20 You shall purify every garment, every article of skin, all work of goats' hair, and every article of wood.” “Kill every male among the little ones.” If I told you, that's a quote from Scripture, and asked, “Where's it from?” Some might say, that's Pharoah, when he orders the destruction of newborn Israelite boys in Egypt. Others might say, with Christmas fresh on our minds, that's Herod, when he orders the destruction of infant boys in Bethlehem.An angel had warned Joseph in a dream in Matthew 2:13:“Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.”Joseph obeys, and ironically Egypt becomes the place of safety, and the land of Israel becomes the Egypt where baby boys are slaughtered by a bloodthirsty Pharaoh, Matthew 2:16,“Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the [magi], became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under.”However, that ominous quote, “Kill every male among the little ones,” is not from Herod or Pharaoh; it's from Moses — verse 17 in Numbers 31.It's one thing to hear that from Herod, who obviously is a bad guy (one of the worst in all the Bible). But it's another to hear words like these from Moses, who is not only a good guy, God's guy, but who speaks on God's behalf. When Moses says this, he's not speaking for himself but for God. This is God's command: “kill every male among the little ones.” God said this, through his chain of command in Moses. So, how do we renounce the evil of Herod at that first Christmas, and yet honor Moses and God himself?This is a dark subject for the Sunday before Christmas. But isn't this what we teach our children? Advent is a season of waiting. And,“Where are we waiting? In a land of deep darkness.”But then we say, “What are we waiting for during Advent? For the light to shine on us.”The slaughter of infants is not holly-jolly. Numbers 31 is not all merry and bright. But this is actually the real setting for Christmas — a desperate, cursed, evil world in which surprising light dawns.Unfinished BusinessAt this point in the book of Numbers, a new generation has arisen. The previous generation has perished during forty years in the wilderness. Now, only Moses remains and he's about to die. But before he departs, he readies this new generation for the conquest to come.Which means Moses finishes well. Even after striking the rock twice and being barred from the promised land, Moses doesn't crumble into self-sabotage. He gathers himself. He finishes the race. He dies well, by preparing the next gen in these chapters: he will teach them the pattern for holy war as they conquer the land, and just principles for sharing the spoils. He still cares enough to get angry and speak words of rebuke, and then make thoughtful provision for the next leaders after he's gone, in chapter 32.And as we come to chapter 31, the main item of unfinished business for Moses, not to leave to the next generation of leaders, is Midian.So, what rays of Advent light might we see in this land of deep darkness on the Sunday before Christmas?1. God will destroy the enemies of his people. (chapter 31)If you are his, in Christ, God will destroy your enemies, our enemies. It's just a matter of time. The adversaries of God will not be left forever to wreak havoc on his people. In love for his people, he will see to the destruction of our enemies, whether in the end, or even in this life, if God chooses to have his final judgments break into the present. Which is what happens with Midian.Let's not forget what happened with the Midianites in chapters 22–25. They are not innocent. They see that Israel has defeated two nations east of the Jordan River. They are in dread of Israel, and so they send for a prophet named Balaam, to pay him to curse Israel. But God keeps Balaam from cursing them, and instead gives him words of blessing. So Balaam fails to derail Israel. But in chapter 25, some men from Israel, now living in such proximity to Midian, are drawn into idolatry and immorality with their new neighbors. God's judgment begins with his own people when 24,000 die of plague (about 4% of the men). Then, God had said at the end of chapter 25,Harass the Midianites and strike them down, for they have harassed you with their wiles, with which they beguiled you in the matter of Peor [where the idolatry happened] . . . . (25:17-18)So, now, chapter 31 addresses God's righteous vengeance on Midian. Look at verses 1–3:The Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Avenge the people of Israel on the Midianites. Afterward you shall be gathered to your people.” So Moses spoke to the people, saying, “Arm men from among you for the war, that they may go against Midian to execute the Lord's vengeance on Midian.This will be the last war campaign before Moses dies. But don't miss who's calling the shots. It's not Moses. God is the one who says, This will be it for you, Moses. And God says in chapter 25, “Harass the Midianites and strike them down.” And God says now, “Avenge the people of Israel on the Midianites.”So verse 7, “They warred against Midian, as the Lord commanded Moses.” This chapter turns on that phrase, “as the Lord commanded Moses” — in verses 7, 21, 31, 41, 47. In the word of verse 3, this is “the Lord's vengeance on Midian.”So Israel's warriors kill the Midianite men, and take the women and children captive, and bring them back to Moses. And Moses is angry with the officers. They have not completed the task. So he says in verses 15–18, which make us cringe the most:“Have you let all the women live? Behold, these, on Balaam's advice, caused the people of Israel to act treacherously against the Lord in the incident of Peor, and so the plague came among the congregation of the Lord. Now therefore, kill every male among the little ones, and kill every woman who has known man by lying with him. But all the young girls who have not known man by lying with him keep alive for yourselves.Verses 25–47, then, address how to divide up the spoils (and young girls): in two parts (for the warriors and the congregation), and then distribute 1/50 (of half) to the Levites and 1/500 (of the other half) to the priests. Finally, we learn in verses 48–54 that they have taken a count of Israel's warriors; none are missing; and according to the Exodus 30, the officers make atonement for having taken a count.Advent LightThere's a summary of chapter 31. Now we ask, How can this be? How can God — through Moses, but originating with God — order the destruction of these Midianites, including the infant boys?Christmas is helpful here. It doesn't answer every question, but it puts the destruction of the Midianites in some fresh light when we see it side by side with Herod's destruction of the boys:Herod, Rome's puppet king, is watching out for himself, seeking to preserve his own fragile power; Moses is the prophet of the living God who hears from him and speaks for God, not for himself, as God is the one who brings divine justice on the enemies of his people.When the magi don't return to report where to find the child, Herod is furious (with unrighteous anger); Moses, as God's prophet, burns with righteous, godly anger when God's people do not live up to their calling as God's people.Herod, in sin, from his wicked heart, orders the slaughter of infant boys in Bethlehem; his kingly order is horribly unjust, and profoundly evil. Moses, on the other hand, orders God's people, at God's initiative, to act as his instrument to destroy the Midianites because of their sin. Mark this: the Midianites are not innocent before God. He does them no wrong in judging them and ordering their destruction.The destruction of the Midianites is not the same as Herod's destruction of Bethlehem's boys. This is the Lord's vengeance, not Moses's, not Israel's. The question is not whether Midian is innocent; the question is why God doesn't destroy Israel as well.And Christmas has a clarifying word to speak into this unnerving episode in Numbers 31, and in the conquest of the land to come in the book of Joshua.Christmas is both the reason we cringe, and the resolution to this darkness. When Jesus came at Christmas, he split history in two. We cringe like we do today because we live on this side of Christmas. We've been influenced by the ethics of Jesus. And the grace and compassion and comfort brought by Christmas have made it possible for us, to our fault, to soft-pedal how dark and sinful and evil this world is — and what sinful people and nations like the Midianites, and us, justly deserve. Part of why we cringe at this is because we have such a shallow view of sin, beginning with our own. We should be cringing that we deserve the same.When we say we live in a land of deep darkness, what do you think we mean? Deep darkness — a world so evil that infants are slaughtered, whether wickedly in Egypt or Bethlehem or America, or justly by God Almighty before whom all stand guilty and he does no one wrong. And if he so chooses, the holy God can use imperfect Israel as his instrument to recompense the profound wickedness in Midian, and Canaan, even as he later will use wicked Babylon as his instrument of judgment against Israel.To be clear, with Christmas, with the coming of Christ, and the bringing in of the supra-national church age, God will never again commission his covenant people to execute his judgments on other's sins. After Christmas, God does not do it this way anymore. Now, his fullness of times has come.And when we get a glimpse in the book of Revelation, what do we see the church doing, as God's judgments fall? We are not administering them. We watch in awe, and rejoice, as Jesus takes care of business. In the end, God's people will observe his judgments, and praise him for them, and say Hallelujah, but we do not execute our enemies for God. We wait for him to execute his judgments for us.So, to be clear, if some imbalanced person tells you that God told him to kill someone, you tell him, I guarantee you that you are wrong. God did not say that. That's from your own head, or from Satan. You have profoundly misread the era. God's covenant with one particular nation-state in the previous era made that possible, while still unusual. But now Christmas has come. God does not work like that, not after Christmas. God will never call his new-covenant people to what he says through Moses here.So, #1, God will destroy the enemies of his people — and we, his church, will watch in awe and praise as Jesus does the work with the word of his power (Revelation 1:16; 2:16; 19:15, 21).2. God will not destroy his people who repent. (chapter 32)Now we come to chapter 32. Moses faces another threat — this time from within. In verses 1–5, the tribes of Gad and Rueben ask to settle down east of the Jordan River, outside the promised land. What in the world? Here we go again. This is a crisis moment. God's people come up to the edge of the promised land, and two tribes, Gad and Rueben, see that the land east of the Jordan looks good for livestock, and they have livestock. So, they ask, Can we stay here? In verses 6–15, Moses responds by remembering the Lord's anger. This has happened before, forty years ago. The people's faith failed, and God sent them back to the wilderness for forty years. So, Moses rebukes the leaders of Gad and Reuben. Verses 14–15: behold, you have risen in your fathers' place, a brood of sinful men, to increase still more the fierce anger of the Lord against Israel! For if you turn away from following him, he will again abandon them in the wilderness, and you will destroy all this people.So, the threat is destruction. Then, amazingly, in verses 16–27, the new generation of leaders in these two tribes respond with humility. They are not stubborn like their fathers. Their hearts are soft. They receive Moses's rebuke, and adjust their request, and the chapter ends in verses 28–42 with everyone happy: the warriors from Gad and Reuben will join the rest of the tribes in securing the promised land — in fact, they will lead the way, and Gad and Reuben (now joined by the half tribe of Manasseh) will expand the lands of Israel to the good pasturelands east of the Jordan. Win, win, win — but it started with a failure of faith. It started with sin. Yet Moses engaged, and God was gracious with his people, the two tribes listened and changed their tune, and responded humbly. And so God does not destroy Gad and Rueben and the whole nation.Two Words for UsEarlier we mentioned Moses finishing well. How admirable that Moses cares enough to speak the word of rebuke. He's old. God's told him he's about to die. He could just phone it in and say, Whatever, like King Hezekiah will do many centuries later. But Moses cares what will happen to God's people after he's gone. He cares enough to be angry. His anger over such a crazy request shows how much he cares.I wonder if when you hear of anger, you assume that's sin. Is Moses angry? That must be sin. Not so fast. Anger can be righteous or unrighteous, godly or sinful. In Ephesians 4:26, Paul says,“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.”Anger can be holy, righteous, and good. Anger is not necessarily sin, but soon leads to sin if you let it linger. Righteous anger is godly, to observe something that's not right, and to care about it. Not just say, Whatever. Righteous anger prompts to action; it summons Moses to say what needs to be said. It makes him bold to rebuke. And then Gad and Rueben respond with humility, alter their plan, and what emerges is better for the whole nation.When you feel a flare of anger, ask it questions. Anger, how are you trying to help me right now? What holy, patient, loving step do I need to take to address this perceived injustice in a way that is reasonable and wise? Am I seeing that right, and if so, what is God calling me to do?A second word for us here in chapter 32 is how our actions (and our presence and absence) affect the hearts of others. When Moses objects to Gad's and Rueben's initial request, he doesn't just say, “Shall your brothers go to the war while you sit here?” But he also talks about the effect on their hearts. He says your bowing out will “discourage the heart of the people.”Our world may look at this, and ignore timeless social dynamics like this, say, “Just let them choose where they want to live. What's the big deal? Let everyone choose for themselves.” But it's not that simple. Your decision to show up or stay home, to continue with the community or head for the pastureland affects other people. Which is really relevant in church life, and especially in smaller groupings like CGs and Life Groups. Don't overlook the power of your presence to encourage the hearts of others. And don't ignore the power of your absence to discourage the hearts of others.So, #1, God will destroy the enemies of his people. #2, God will not destroy his people who repent. But now what? Who is this God? Is he the God who destroys, or the God who does not destroy. How do we put chapter 31 and 32 together? Is this the same God?We finish with two texts from outside this passage. One I came across this week, reading through the Minor Prophets, as I do every December. I came to the end of Micah, and read these stunning wordings of grace to his people in the last three verses (7:18–20):Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of his inheritance? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in steadfast love. He will again have compassion on us; he will tread our iniquities underfoot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea. You will show faithfulness to Jacob and steadfast love to Abraham, as you have sworn to our fathers from the days of old.Then, back to back, next page, there's Nahum, and what's the first thing out of his mouth for Nineveh and the Assyrians (1:2)?The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord is avenging and wrathful; the Lord takes vengeance on his adversaries and keeps wrath for his enemies.So, who is this God? Is he the pardoning God of Micah or the avenging God of Nahum? Part of the answer here is in whom the prophets are addressing. Micah is talking to God's people, his “remnant,” his covenant people, sinners who have repented. To them, God shows compassion and steadfast love. However, Nahum is talking to the Assyrians, who are the adversaries and enemies of his people. To them, God is full of righteous wrath and vengeance. It all comes down to whether your sins are covered with his covenant people, or whether you remain unshielded as his adversary and enemy of God.So, we finish with a Christmas text, and final ray of Advent light.3. Jesus came to pardon his people and destroy the devil. (1 John 3:5, 8)I love 1 John 3:5 and 8, and especially during Advent, because here together John gives us two expressions of why Jesus came.Verse 5: Jesus “appeared in order to take away sins.” That is, he came to die in the place of his sinful people, that those who are in him, by faith, would have their sins covered, and their enemies destroyed, and live with Jesus in unending joy forever.Verse 8: “The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.” That is, Christmas is holy war. He came to ruin Satan, and destroy his works. And oh was the devil at work in ancient Egypt. And was he at work in Midian, and in Israel, and in Herod and Bethlehem.The God of Christmas is a pardoning God because Jesus takes away the sins of those who genuinely repent. And the God of Christmas is an avenging God, who will right every wrong in the end.This crooked and cursed and sinful world, this land of deep darkness, is the one into which Jesus came at Christmas. Which means the great joy of Christmas comes precisely in the midst of this age's pains and horrors, not by repressing, ignoring, or reframing them. Death and sin and destruction don't ruin Christmas; they are the reason for Christmas, and why Christmas is so precious. The darkness around us, and in us, is why the light of Christmas shines so bright. Ignore the darkness, or pretend it isn't there, and your Christmas light will be dull and faint. But acknowledge evil, own your own sin, recognize the size of your need, and the light of Christmas shines out in its true greatness.Christmas's brightness doesn't depend on all being merry and bright. It is brightness in the midst of much darkness, real merriment that comes after and in the midst of real tragedy.Why Jesus CameAs we come to the Table, we remember why Jesus appeared — that is, why he came at Christmas. He came, on the one hand, to war against and to destroy the works of the devil. And a day is coming when he will return and speak the word to enact eternal destruction to the enemies of his people — to our praise and applause.This Table celebrates his taking away the sins of his people. He bled and died, gave his body and blood, that we the guilty, who deserved destruction, might receive his compassion and love.

Judges 8 “Remaining Faithful To God's Calling” 1. Gideon's humility and diplomacy (v.1-3) 2. The pursuit of the Midianites (v.4-21) 3. Gideon's fame and mistake (v.22-35)

Judges 8:4-28 Following the awesome victory that God gave into the hands of Gideon His servant – 135,000 Midianites lay dead.  Not content with this victory over the host, Midian pursued the 15,000 that remained and slew them dead.  The two Midianite kings, Zebah and Zalmunna, were the last two enemies to be destroyed. This sermon is a plea from God for the same zeal to be enacted on behalf of His people toward sin.  We must deal thoroughly and decisively with sin in our lives until every last Midianite is slain.  Let us heed the command of God and go up to the fight in the grace and power of the Holy Spirit.  

Judges 6:34 – 8:32. God raises Israel's 5th judge to deliver them from the Midianites.   Website: https://www.papasbiblestories.com   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/papasbiblestories/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/papasbiblestories/   Email: papasbiblestories@gmail.com  If you would like to support this ministry, donation options can be found here: https://www.papasbiblestories.com/support/   Looking for an episode transcript? https://www.papasbiblestories.com/62   

Thank You for joining us today! We will be looking at the story and life of a military leader, judge, and prophet Gideon, also named Jerubbaal and Jerubbesheth, was called to be victorious over the Midianites and his story is recounted in Judges chapters 6 – 8. That's Right, Gideon, just like everyone of us had to decide to answer the Call of God that was on His Life… The Book of Judges gives us the history of Israel during the time of the government of the Judges, who were occasionally needed as deliverers. They were raised up by God to: • Administer justice for the people • Reform the religious practices • And to rescue Israel from their oppressors That Sounds like something we need today, Amen!   Share this broadcast with your friends and get ready to experience the unlimited power of God! Get connected with us and watch “Greater Glory” on the High Tower Ministries, Int. Facebook Page! Sundays at 9 AM and Wednesdays at 7 PM for inspiring messages that will raise your faith and grow you in the Word! Don't miss a message, Follow Us on Facebook: https://linktr.ee/hightowerministries Bookings/ Churches / Conferences: Bookings@HighTowerMinistry.org  FREE DOWNLOAD / Website: www.HighTowerMinistry.org   Unlocking Glory and the Unlocking Glory Study Guide are available on our website (signed copy with free shipping within the US). Also available on Amazon and Barnes and Nobles.    

One day Zechariah was serving God in the Temple, for his order was on duty that week. As was the custom of the priests, he was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and burn incense. (Luke 1:8–9 NLT) Zechariah the priest was a faithful man. He was faithful in what God set before him. His job as a priest included serving in the temple in Jerusalem twice a year. It would have been an important occasion to leave his little country parish, go to the big city of Jerusalem to the temple, and enter the holy of holies and offer a sacrifice on behalf of the people of God. This shows us that God often speaks to His people when they are busy doing their daily tasks. For example, when God called Moses to lead Israel out of Pharaoh's bondage, he was tending sheep. When God called David to run an errand that would result in the death of the mighty Goliath in the Valley of Elah, he, too, was tending sheep. When Elijah was looking for a successor to carry on his ministry, he found him plowing a field. And when God called Gideon to deliver Israel from the tyranny of the Midianites, he was threshing wheat. When Jesus called His disciples to change the world, they were mending their nets. They simply were doing what was set before them. Some of us envision a great ministry for the Lord. We might have said, “One day I would like to be a missionary and cross the ocean for Christ.” On the other hand, God might say, “Would you mind crossing the street first and talking to your neighbor?” The mission field is all around us. It's right outside our doors. God has given us spiritual gifts as Christians. When we come to Christ and ask God to empower us with the Holy Spirit, He gives gifts of the Spirit. Romans 12:6 tells us, “In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well” (NLT). The gifts of God don't come fully formed. As Paul wrote to Timothy, “This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you” (2 Timothy 1:6 NLT). We need to take the gift God has given us and start using it. And the way we become better at what God calls us to do is by doing it a lot. Each of us must take the gift that we have and develop it through use. You might say, “I don't know what I am good at.” Sometimes the best way to discover what you're good at is to first discover what you're not good at. Sometimes the process of elimination can be helpful. We can benefit from so-called failures by realizing that we're not gifted in those areas. We all have abilities that God has given us. And we need to use them. However, it's difficult to steer a car when the engine isn't running. And if we want to serve the Lord, we start by going out and doing something for Him. If we are faithful in the little things, then God will give us greater opportunities. — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Mountain E5 — Moses has a complicated identity. He's an Israelite, but he was raised in the house of Pharaoh. He was born in Egypt, but he flees to live in the wilderness with the Midianites. And there in the wilderness, he meets God on two separate occasions on Mount Sinai. The first time, God commissions Moses to deliver the Israelites from slavery. And the second time, while Moses is up on the mountain with God, the recently freed people down below are already breaking the covenant by worshiping a gold calf. Will Moses stand in the gap for the people in this moment of crisis? In this episode, Jon and Tim discuss Moses as a successful mountaintop intercessor, showing what can happen when a human trusts God on the cosmic mountain.View more resources on our website →Timestamps Chapter 1: Recap of the Mountain Theme So Far (0:00-13:37)Chapter 2: Moses' Identity and Commissioning on Mount Sinai (13:37-35:34)Chapter 3: Moses Rescues Israel and Intercedes for them on Mount Sinai (35:34-1:02:08)Official Episode TranscriptView this episode's official transcript.Referenced ResourcesCheck out Tim's library here.You can experience our entire library of resources in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS.Show Music“Sum Sum” by Ben Bada Boom“Garden Trees” by T.Check & Kofi AnonymousBibleProject theme song by TENTS Show CreditsProduction of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and also provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie.Powered and distributed by Simplecast.

Judges 6:1-33.  God raises Israel's 5th judge to deliver the Israelites from the Midianites.   Website: https://www.papasbiblestories.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/papasbiblestories/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/papasbiblestories/   Email: papasbiblestories@gmail.com  If you would like to support this ministry, donation options can be found here: https://www.papasbiblestories.com/support/  Looking for an episode transcript? https://www.papasbiblestories.com/61 

What are the areas where you're asking and begging God to reassure you? Like Gideon, we constantly need confidence in what the Lord has set out for us. But, following in Gideon's footsteps, we ought to gain this reassurance through intentional prayer and communion with God. Join Pastor Shannon Butler in Judges 6:36-7:25 to dive into the story of Gideon's army overcoming the Midianites and to examine God's great reassurance.Support the show

In this second installment of a two-part message, Ps. Mike digs deeper and explores the behavior and attitude of the children of Israel before God anoints Gideon to defeat the Midianites. We can learn from their attitude and posture how to position ourselves for breakthrough!

In this first installment of a two-part message, Ps. Mike explores the behavior and attitude of the children of Israel before God anoints Gideon to defeat the Midianites. We can learn from their attitude and posture how to position ourselves for breakthrough!

Join best-selling author and Bible teacher Nicki Koziarz for a special teaching episode on Gideon. In this episode, we dive into the story of Gideon in Judges 6:11-24. This is a passage where God meets Gideon in his fear and uncertainty, calling him to a purpose far greater than he ever imagined. Nicki shares how Gideon can teach us to find and remove the pieces in our peace, to experience "shalom" total complete peace. Some things we cover: Setting the Scene (v.11-12): Gideon's initial state: hiding in a winepress, threshing wheat, fearful of the Midianites. God's greeting: "The Lord is with you, mighty warrior!" — a powerful reminder of God's vision for Gideon that surpasses his own self-image. Gideon's Doubts and God's Patience (v.13-16): Gideon questions God's presence and actions, reflecting his insecurity and frustration. God's response is both reassuring and affirming, telling Gideon to "go in the strength you have." A discussion on how God often calls us despite our doubts and inabilities, equipping us for what He's called us to. The Sign of the Sacrifice (v.17-24): Gideon asks for a sign to confirm his calling, and God honors this by miraculously consuming Gideon's offering. The significance of the offering, and how it represents Gideon's need to lay down his doubts. Reflection on how God sometimes provides reassurance in unexpected ways, meeting us where we are.  Learning to trust God's vision of who we are rather than our own limited perspectives. Someimes He calls us to seasons that are seem to make no sense but they aren't senless. We can have encouragement to step out in faith, even when we feel inadequate, because God promises His presence. Embracing God's patience and kindness when we struggle with doubt and fear.  “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.” - Judges 6:12  In what areas of your life do you struggle to see yourself as God sees you? How can you start "going in the strength you have," as God told Gideon? What might it look like for you to lay down your doubts and trust God's presence in the midst of the battles of your life?    Something to think about: Gideon's story shows us that God doesn't always call the equipped, but He equips those He calls. As we reflect on this passage, keep your soul open to God's encouragement and step into the roles He's calling us to, knowing that His "shalom" peace is with us as we build an altar to alter our lives. 

God specializes in overcoming overwhelming odds. God transformed Gideon from a shy farmer into a mighty warrior, preparing him to lead a ragtag team of 300 Israelites in defending and liberating God's people from the Midianites, who were the dominant military force in the region then. Today, trust and embrace His power for strength and endurance even when journeying through unfamiliar seasons. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive