Podcasts about Mishael

 Gospel Daily with Josh Weidmann Prayer Personalizes God's Power, Part 2 Series: Daniel: Devoted Scripture: Daniel 2:1-18 Episode: 1285 In Daniel 2:1-18, King Nebuchadnezzar has a troubling dream and demands that his wise men not only interpret it but also reveal the dream itself, threatening death if they fail. The king's decree causes panic, as no one can fulfill his request. When Daniel learns of the situation, he responds with wisdom and discretion, asking for time to seek God's revelation. Daniel gathers his friends—Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah—to join him in urgent prayer for mercy so they might be spared along with the other wise men. Key themes include the power of prayer, God as the revealer of mysteries, and faith under pressure.

 Gospel Daily with Josh Weidmann Prayer Personalizes God's Power, Part 1 Series: Daniel: Devoted Scripture: Daniel 2:1-18 Episode: 1284 In Daniel 2:1-18, King Nebuchadnezzar has a troubling dream and demands that his wise men not only interpret it but also reveal the dream itself, threatening death if they fail. The king's decree causes panic, as no one can fulfill his request. When Daniel learns of the situation, he responds with wisdom and discretion, asking for time to seek God's revelation. Daniel gathers his friends—Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah—to join him in urgent prayer for mercy so they might be spared along with the other wise men. Key themes include the power of prayer, God as the revealer of mysteries, and faith under pressure.

“Then Daniel went to his house and informed his friends, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, about the matter. So that they might request compassion from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that Daniel and his friends would not be destroyed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon" (Daniel 2:17-18). Over the years, having a group of friends I know will actually pray when I ask for help, who have supported me, encouraged me, corrected me, and poured life into me in the name of Jesus—has blessed me beyond measure. Those are the kind of friends I beg God to give my children.  The kind who will do anything to get them to Jesus. ~ Brooke McGlothlin Are you concerned about the influence of friends in your child's life? If so, this episode of Everyday Prayers with Million Praying Moms is for you. Tune in now to listen to today's entire devotion and start your day off praying God's Word for your family! LINKS: Get the podcast devotion & prayer in written form! Support the ministry with your $5 monthly gift through Patreon. Visit Today's Show Notes Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

2025 June 15 | This week, Pastor Evan starts a new sermon series Exiles where we will look at the stories of Daniel and Esther and discover how God's people can remain faithful to his Word, develop wisdom and perseverance, and rely on his providence—even when he seems absent. He begins in Daniel 1:1-21, preaching on how God is steadfast and preserves us in a changing cultural landscape and one that is often hostile to Christianity. Daniel 1:1-21 Daniel Taken to Babylon 1 In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. 2 And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with some of the vessels of the house of God. And he brought them to the land of Shinar, to the house of his god, and placed the vessels in the treasury of his god. 3 Then the king commanded Ashpenaz, his chief eunuch, to bring some of the people of Israel, both of the royal family[a] and of the nobility, 4 youths without blemish, of good appearance and skillful in all wisdom, endowed with knowledge, understanding learning, and competent to stand in the king's palace, and to teach them the literature and language of the Chaldeans. 5 The king assigned them a daily portion of the food that the king ate, and of the wine that he drank. They were to be educated for three years, and at the end of that time they were to stand before the king. 6 Among these were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah of the tribe of Judah. 7 And the chief of the eunuchs gave them names: Daniel he called Belteshazzar, Hananiah he called Shadrach, Mishael he called Meshach, and Azariah he called Abednego. Daniel's Faithfulness 8 But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself. 9 And God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs, 10 and the chief of the eunuchs said to Daniel, “I fear my lord the king, who assigned your food and your drink; for why should he see that you were in worse condition than the youths who are of your own age? So you would endanger my head with the king.” 11 Then Daniel said to the steward whom the chief of the eunuchs had assigned over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, 12 “Test your servants for ten days; let us be given vegetables to eat and water to drink. 13 Then let our appearance and the appearance of the youths who eat the king's food be observed by you, and deal with your servants according to what you see.” 14 So he listened to them in this matter, and tested them for ten days. 15 At the end of ten days it was seen that they were better in appearance and fatter in flesh than all the youths who ate the king's food. 16 So the steward took away their food and the wine they were to drink, and gave them vegetables. 17 As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. 18 At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. 19 And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. 20 And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. 21 And Daniel was there until the first year of King Cyrus.

Garth Heckman The David Alliance TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com      3 Then the king instructed Ashpenaz, the master of his eunuchs, to bring some of the children of Israel and some of the king's descendants and some of the nobles, 4 young men in whom there was no blemish, but good-looking, gifted in all wisdom, possessing knowledge and quick to understand, who had ability to serve in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the language and literature of the Chaldeans.   NOTE…  They took the best of the best… not dummies. THATS WHY I WOULD BE SAFE… THATS A JOKE They would entertain them, feed them the best, meet their every need and put them with others who were also captured… take the best and the brightest, give them elite instructors, privileged education, New network and friends, New authorities over them, re-naming them… wearing them down. Many probably thought… … I deserve this …everyone is doing it … God has forgotten me … I will go back to God later … This is so much better than my previous life NOW IN A CULTURE THAT SERVED BAAL AND ASHERAH.   THE GOD OF MONEY and POWER AND SEX   - THEY ARE TEENAGERS!!!!   This sounds a lot like our universities.. take the best and the brightest, give them elite instructors, privileged education, New network and friends, New authorities over them, re-naming them…    V. 6 But even out of the best of Judah, only 4 boys are mentioned. Only four stood the test.    Remember… 3 Then the king instructed Ashpenaz, the master of his eunuchs, to bring some of the children of Israel and some of the king's descendants and some of the nobles, 4 young men in whom there was no blemish, but good-looking, gifted in all wisdom, possessing knowledge and quick to understand, who had ability to serve in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the language and literature of the Chaldeans.   The others must have caved. V.6 Now from among those of the sons of Judah were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah who stood out   Train them for 3 years. Give them a royal role for service.   NOTE: The Assyrian nation dominated by fear and intimidation. They would skin their enemies alive and wall paper their houses with their skin…   BUT THE BABYLONIANS… They were far more subtle… Change your surroundings Change your diet - the best to eat Change your friends Change your role - you are important Change your name - identity Change your education - mindset FEED THE FLESHLY DESIRES FOR  3 YEARS   Be careful for the enemy prowls…. Seeking whom he may devour…. Prowling is sneaky… and then WHAM. You are dinner. Are you allowing satan to pull your strings subtly? 

05/18/2025 Paul Bang   Nehemiah 8:1-12   English Standard Version     8 And all the people gathered as one man into the square before the Water Gate. And they told Ezra the scribe to bring the Book of the Law of Moses that the Lord had commanded Israel. 2 So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, both men and women and all who could understand what they heard, on the first day of the seventh month. 3 And he read from it facing the square before the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of the men and the women and those who could understand. And the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law. 4 And Ezra the scribe stood on a wooden platform that they had made for the purpose. And beside him stood Mattithiah, Shema, Anaiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah on his right hand, and Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchijah, Hashum, Hashbaddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam on his left hand. 5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was above all the people, and as he opened it all the people stood. 6 And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God, and all the people answered, “Amen, Amen,” lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground. 7 Also Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, the Levites, helped the people to understand the Law, while the people remained in their places. 8 They read from the book, from the Law of God, clearly, and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading. 9 And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law. 10 Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” 11 So the Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be quiet, for this day is holy; do not be grieved.” 12 And all the people went their way to eat and drink and to send portions and to make great rejoicing, because they had understood the words that were declared to them.

In Daniel 1 God delivers His people into Nebuchadnezzar's hands, leading to their seventy year exile in Babylon. It's a strange place for God to deliver His people, especially since God's sovereign work is always aimed towards the redemption of His people. Why then would God lead His people into exile in a godless, idolatrous, corrupt, and evil nation? It's there that Daniel and three of his closest friends - Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah demonstrate that it's possible to live in Babylon, serve in the king's court, and yet belong to Yahweh, alone. Today, every Christian, no matter where they find themselves, are living in exile. And we, too, can live inside foreign empires, serve in various spaces, and still belong to God, alone. But how? What does this kind of faithfulness look like and require of us? Daniel shows us the way.

Daniel Taken to Babylon Dan 1:1  In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it. Dan 1:2  And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the treasure house of his god. Dan 1:3  And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes; Dan 1:4  Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. Dan 1:5  And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king. Dan 1:6  Now among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: Dan 1:7  Unto whom the prince of the eunuchs gave names: for he gave unto Daniel the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego. Daniel's Faithfulness Dan 1:8  But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. Dan 1:9  Now God had brought Daniel into favour and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs. Dan 1:10  And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? then shall ye make meendanger my head to the king. Dan 1:11  Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,

SCRIPTURE: Daniel 2 SHOW NOTES: We invite you to visit our ministry website, Discover God's Truth, to find more resources to support your spiritual journey.Daniel was a man of fervent prayer. He was taken captive to Babylon and served there for over 60 years. In this first historical episode, he learns that the king had a dream and wants to know both the dream and its interpretation. The wise men of the court cannot reveal this information to the king. The Chaldeans answered the king and said, “There is not a man on earth who can meet the king's demand, for no great and powerful king has asked such a thing of any magician or enchanter or Chaldean. The thing that the king asks is difficult, and no one can show it to the king except the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh.” Daniel 2:10-11Daniel learns of the king's harsh order—kill all the wise men—and requests time to find a solution to the king's dilemma. He returns to his house, calls his friends—Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah—and asks them to join him in prayer. "He urged them to plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that he and his friends might not be executed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon." Daniel 2:18 They asked for God's compassion to manifest through a revelation of the king's dream and its interpretation to Daniel. God revealed the secret mystery to Daniel. He believed this vision was an answer to their fervent prayers. “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belong wisdom and might. He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding; he reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with him. To you, O God of my fathers, I give thanks and praise, for you have given me wisdom and might, and have now made known to me what we asked of you, for you have made known to us the king's matter.” Daniel 2:20-23SONG: Perfect Wisdom of Our God - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSnzYnOe6kI

“True Wisdom and Power” Daniel 2:1-24 May 4, 2025 Pastor John Choi  Sermon Application [file]   ----more---- Daniel 2:9b Therefore tell me the dream, and I shall know that you can show me its interpretation.” 10 The Chaldeans answered the king and said, “There is not a man on earth who can meet the king's demand, for no great and powerful king has asked such a thing of any magician or enchanter or Chaldean. 11 The thing that the king asks is difficult, and no one can show it to the king except the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh.” 12 Because of this the king was angry and very furious, and commanded that all the wise men of Babylon be destroyed. 13 So the decree went out, and the wise men were about to be killed; and they sought Daniel and his companions, to kill them. 14 Then Daniel replied with prudence and discretion to Arioch, the captain of the king's guard, who had gone out to kill the wise men of Babylon. 15 He declared to Arioch, the king's captain, “Why is the decree of the king so urgent?” Then Arioch made the matter known to Daniel. 16 And Daniel went in and requested the king to appoint him a time, that he might show the interpretation to the king. 17 Then Daniel went to his house and made the matter known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions, 18 and told them to seek mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that Daniel and his companions might not be destroyed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. 19 Then the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision of the night. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven. 20 Daniel answered and said: “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belong wisdom and might. 21 He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding; 22 he reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with him. 23 To you, O God of my fathers, I give thanks and praise, for you have given me wisdom and might, and have now made known to me what we asked of you, for you have made known to us the king's matter.”      True wisdom and power belong to God, and He reveals them to us for His glory and our good.            I.  The Search for Wisdom and Power (1-16)           II.  The Source of Wisdom and Power (17-20)            III.  Wisdom and Power shown (21-24)

***CORRECTED TRANSCRIPT*** Welcome to a special edition of Perek Shira. In the introduction to Perek Shira , it says about David Hamelech, that when he finished sefer Tehilim , זחה דעתו עליו/ He became a little proud, and said, Hashem, is there any creature in the world that says more songs than I do? At that moment, a frog appeared, and told David, אל תזוח דעתך עליך , Don't be proud, I say more songs than you do. I'm involved in a great Mitzvah. On the edge of the river, there is a certain creature, and when he's hungry, he eats me, and that's the Mitzvah that I do. That's the basic message of Chazal. Very strange. What exactly is going on over here? The frog is greater than David Hamelech? What does that mean? The Zohar HaKadosh, in Pinchas 232B cites this story as well, but with a different response from the frog, which is, " David, don't be proud. I do more than you, because I was Moser Nefesh on the command of my Creator. When it came to the plague of frogs, I jumped into the ovens, and I was Moser Nefesh ." The frog actually does sing all day, it's croaks all day. It could be that in the merit of his Mesirut Nefesh, he's the ultimate singer. The Mabit , in his commentary, brings this down as well. The Zohar says at that moment, David Hamelech said this song in Tehilim 131,1 lה' לא גבה לבי, לא רמו עיני, My heart is not arrogant, my eyes are not lifted up . So let us understand, what is this great song of the frog? The sefer Imrei Emet on Parashat Vaera brings down from the Tanna D'veh Eliyahu , that the Hebrew word for frog צפרדע Sefardea , is a contraction of two words, ציפור, a bird , that has דעה , that has understanding . It's Bird because the frog is always flying around, but what is his דעת ? The Imrei Emet says that the ultimate level of Da'at , the highest level of intellect, is when a person is Moser Nefesh , when he jumps into the fire. Avraham Avinu was the one that recognized his Creator, and he was the first one to jump into the fire. What does that mean? The Meshech Chochma in Shemot 35,30 explains something fascinating. The chief architect of the Mishkan was Betzalel Ben Ouri, Ben Chur. And what happens to him? Hashem filled him with all knowledge in the world. Why was he zocheh to that? Says the Meshech Chochma, Mesirut Nefesh . When a person jumps into a fiery furnace, it is the ultimate shutting off of one's brain- not thinking, just trusting Hashem. Hashem says it's right, so I'm doing it. Chur was Moser Nefesh at the Chet HaEgel . He made a protest and they killed him. This is not something philosophical. Philosophically, would you say, For this one second, I'm giving up my whole life and all the things that I could do ? No . The Chasid Yaavetz says that in the times of the Spanish Inquisition, those that were tainted by philosophy did not withstand the test and became Moranos. The simpler people jumped in, because with too much philosophy, you're not going to do it. But, says the Meshech Chochma , that is the ultimate Da'at . The ultimate level of understanding is knowing, I don't understand, I'm going to dive in and do what God says . That's why Chur had a great-grandson, Betzalel , who was so full of wisdom. So, ציפור דעה, the message of the frog is, he jumps in and he is Moser Nefesh , and that's the greatest Shira . Furthermore, the sefer Shem M'Shimon quotes from a sefer Baalei Chayim by Rav Klonimus, that says that the frog did something earlier in history that caused it to merit to be the first creature in the plagues, after the blood. When Nimrod threw Avraham into the fiery furnace, the frogs jumped in and squirted water to try to cool down the fire to save Avraham. Additionally, when Chananiah, Mishael and Azariah questioned whether they should jump into the fiery furnace, they said, " If the frogs did it, surely we should do it." So the frogs are the messengers of Moser Nefesh . The chiddush here is that the song of creation is not necessarily the outward , loud song. Mesirut Nefesh, even in privacy, creates a great song. The Midrash tells us that there were two approaches (Bereshit 71,5) The approach of לאה was called פלח הודיה. She took the unit of praise, and out of her came Yehuda who praised, David Hamelech who praised, and Daniel…all of her children were praisers. Rachel, on the other hand, took the unit of being quiet. She didn't say when the signs were given over to Leah. Her child, Binyamin his stone is ישפה ,. יש פה He could have revealed the sale of Yosef, but he didn't. Esther, who comes from Shaul, and Shaul…They're quiet, undercover people. Whose Mesirut Nefesh is greater? Interestingly, when it comes to the splitting of the sea, Nachshon, who comes from Yehuda jumps in and splits the sea. But behind the scenes we know, that it says, the sea saw something and ran . What did it see? It saw the bones of Yosef. It says, the sea ran away because he ran away, and the sea split. So who split the sea? Nachshon, yes, on the outside. But behind the scenes, the quiet, self-control, Mesirut Nefesh of Yosef did it. As the Rambam in Yad Hazaka , in the laws of Yesodeh HaTorah , chapter 5, Halacha 10, says, that when a person does a sin in public, it's called Chillul Hashem B'Rabim. And he says, But קול הפורש מעבירה, someone that stays away from a sin, and does it, not out of fear, not for honor, but only because God said so, like Yosef HaSaddik, that controlled himself from the wife of his master, this is a kiddush Hashem. So there are two types of Kiddush Hashem. There's a Kiddush Hashem in public, and there's a Kiddush Hashem in private. The Mesirut Nefesh that doesn't make the big, loud noise, still does something. That's the message of the frog. Yes, there are great songs that we hear, but there are songs that we don't hear, of those people that just jump into the fiery furnace. There's a great story that is told over, of a man, Joe, who was a very successful Israeli, the son of Holocaust survivors. He rose from a childhood of poverty, in the mid-80s, and built up a huge, successful high-tech company. One day, his wife called, asking to pick up some meat on his way home from the office. He stopped at a trendy take-out place, to order what they called in, Israel Basar Lavan/white meat, which is code for חזיר, pork. As he stood in line, he began to feel uneasy. He began to remember a story he had heard from his parents. He always knew the story, but now it took on a heightened meaning. Joe's maternal grandfather was Rav Shraga Feivel of Hungary. Rav Shraga Feivel was captured by the Nazis, about a year before the war ended, and imprisoned as a slave in a slave labor camp. After a year, Rav Shraga Feivel was about to be freed. The war was over, and the Allied forces were going from camp to camp, liberating the prisoners. They could already see the smoke of the Allied forces marching their way. Freedom was mere hours away. At that moment, the head SS officer gathered the Jewish prisoners together and announced, The war has ended. In a few hours, you'll be free. All but you, he said, pointing to Rav Shraga Feivel. You must pass one more test. You must eat this piece of pig's meat. Only then will you be allowed to go free. Refuse it, and I'll shoot you in the head right here and now. The tension was so thick, you could cut it with a knife. Rav Shraga Feivel had been meticulous all through his days at the camp, not to eat unkosher meat. He didn't even eat soup, which might contain meat. Rav Shraga Feivel proclaimed, I will not eat chazir-flesh /I will not eat pork. A shot rang out, and Rav Shraga Feivel soul was returned to its creator. And now, 40 years later, Rav Shraga Feivel's grandson stood thinking to himself, I'm waiting in line to pay money to eat that which my grandfather gave his life not to consume? All he had to do was eat that one small piece of pork, and he'd be set free! He'd be allowed to return to his family, yet he wouldn't do it. I have everything. I'm free to live with my family. I have anything I want, yet I'm about to purchase this meat?Either my grandfather was crazy, or I'm crazy. And I cannot believe that he was crazy, thought Joe, as he got off the line and went to buy dinner elsewhere. When he got home, he spoke to his wife about his feelings and the emptiness he had been experiencing. They both had to acknowledge that despite all their material prosperity, a certain spiritual emptiness gnawed at him. They were missing something, but never knew exactly what. They spoke for a long time about values and what is important in life. They decided to attend an Arachim seminar. Joe was enthralled by the seminar. It penetrated the murky mysteriousness of God, Torah, and Judaism. It rocked his world and shook his soul. Who was that Joe? That Joe was well known as Yossi Wallis. He eventually became the CEO of the Arachim organization and built it to a huge movement of Baaleh Teshuva. Tens of thousands of Jews have already come back. We ask ourselves, what did this man, Rav Shraga Feivel, accomplish by dying and not living the rest of his life for that moment of Kiddush Hashem, shutting off his brain? He got a grandson full of Da'at and Chochma . And that's the Song of the Frog. *If you're interested in learning more about Yossi Wallis, there's a book written about him written by Rav Nacan Seltzer called Incredible , a bestseller by Artscroll. Have a wonderful day.

We continue our project of reading ALL of God's word for our listeners. The book of Daniel is a favorite because of its amazing stories and prophetic visions, but it is also rich in detail and historical context. It opens circa 605 BC, timestamped as "the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah." Jehoiakim, born as Eliakim, was the second-born son of the great reformer Josiah, who died in a rash attempt to prevent Pharoah Neco from passing through his kingdom to attack the Assyrians. The people of Judah (apparently) bypassed Jehoiakim for his younger brother, Jehoahaz (Jehovah his sustainer), who reigned only three months, and then Pharaoh Neco took Jehoahaz captive to Egypt and placed Josiah's older brother, Eliakim (God will establish), on the throne, but renaming him Jehoiakim (Jehovah will establish). Jehoiakim would reign for eleven years. Confused? It only gets worse. But ... it is extremely important to "get" the historical details here if you want to understand the Bible as the historical book it claims to be. Life in this vale of tears is not neat, but it does follow interesting patterns at all levels of resolution. Two more kings of Judah will follow, Jehoiachin (son of Jehoiakim) and Zedekiah (born Mattaniah, the youngest son of Josiah, renamed by Nebuchadnezzar). Length of reigns? 3 months (Jehoiachin) and 11 years (Zedekiah). See the pattern? What does it mean? If you have ideas, please let us know! Jenny and I have learned that there are no mistakes or haphazard elements in God's word. Another interesting element of the timestamp is that the third year of Jehoiakim is the first year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign over Bablyon. He was apparently attacking Egypt when his father, Nabopolassar, died. He probably stopped - on his way back to Babylon to be crowned king - to ravage Jerusalem and take Daniel and the other members of the royal family and nobility of Judah captive to Babylon. This means that Daniel and his friends were only in the second year of their three year course of studies to be "wise men" of the Chaldeans when they interpret the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter two! When we recognize this, these verses in chapter one takes on new meaning and significance: As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. Daniel 1:17–20 (ESV) God is indeed faithful to bless His people when they remain faithful to Him. "Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says YHWH of hosts." As usual, here is a good summary of the Book of Daniel that we highly recommend: https://youtu.be/9cSC9uobtPM?si=7DfciDVCCpbmkb62 May the Lord add richly to your knowledge of Him as you study!

We continue our project of reading ALL of God's word for our listeners. The book of Daniel is a favorite because of its amazing stories and prophetic visions, but it is also rich in detail and historical context. It opens circa 605 BC, timestamped as "the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah." Jehoiakim, born as Eliakim, was the second-born son of the great reformer Josiah, who died in a rash attempt to prevent Pharoah Neco from passing through his kingdom to attack the Assyrians. The people of Judah (apparently) bypassed Jehoiakim for his younger brother, Jehoahaz (Jehovah his sustainer), who reigned only three months, and then Pharaoh Neco took Jehoahaz captive to Egypt and placed Josiah's older brother, Eliakim (God will establish), on the throne, but renaming him Jehoiakim (Jehovah will establish). Jehoiakim would reign for eleven years. Confused? It only gets worse. But ... it is extremely important to "get" the historical details here if you want to understand the Bible as the historical book it claims to be. Life in this vale of tears is not neat, but it does follow interesting patterns at all levels of resolution. Two more kings of Judah will follow, Jehoiachin (son of Jehoiakim) and Zedekiah (born Mattaniah, the youngest son of Josiah, renamed by Nebuchadnezzar). Length of reigns? 3 months (Jehoiachin) and 11 years (Zedekiah). See the pattern? What does it mean? If you have ideas, please let us know! Jenny and I have learned that there are no mistakes or haphazard elements in God's word. Another interesting element of the timestamp is that the third year of Jehoiakim is the first year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign over Bablyon. He was apparently attacking Egypt when his father, Nabopolassar, died. He probably stopped - on his way back to Babylon to be crowned king - to ravage Jerusalem and take Daniel and the other members of the royal family and nobility of Judah captive to Babylon. This means that Daniel and his friends were only in the second year of their three year course of studies to be "wise men" of the Chaldeans when they interpret the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter two! When we recognize this, these verses in chapter one takes on new meaning and significance: As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. Daniel 1:17–20 (ESV) God is indeed faithful to bless His people when they remain faithful to Him. "Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says YHWH of hosts." As usual, here is a good summary of the Book of Daniel that we highly recommend: https://youtu.be/9cSC9uobtPM?si=7DfciDVCCpbmkb62 May the Lord add richly to your knowledge of Him as you study!

“Faithful in Exile, (Part 2)” Daniel 1:15-21   April 6, 2025 Pastor John Choi  Sermon Application [file]   ----more---- Daniel 1:15 At the end of ten days it was seen that they were better in appearance and fatter in flesh than all the youths who ate the king's food. 16 So the steward took away their food and the wine they were to drink, and gave them vegetables. 17 As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. 18 At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. 19 And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. 20 And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. 21 And Daniel was there until the first year of King Cyrus.     God's purpose for the Church is to be His witness through engaging with the world so that the worship of Jesus may increase.           I.  The Church as Witness  II.  Our Engagement with the World III.  The Increase of Worship

Rabbi Mishael Zion comes from a Haggadah-filled home: he is co-author of A Night to Remember: The Haggadah of Contemporary Voices (2007) and The Israeli Haggadah (2024), together with his father Noam Zion, who is the author of A Different Night: The Family Participation Haggadah (Hartman, 1997). Mishael was ordained by Yeshivat Chovevei Torah in New York, has served as co-Director and rabbi of the Bronfman Fellowships, and founded the Mandel Program for Leadership in Jewish Culture for Israeli Arts, Culture and Media leaders. He is also leader of the Klausner Minyan in Talpiot, Jerusalem, the neighborhood he was born in and in where his wife Elana, and their four daughters, live.

We continue our project of reading ALL of God's word for our listeners. The book of Daniel is a favorite because of its amazing stories and prophetic visions, but it is also rich in detail and historical context. It opens circa 605 BC, timestamped as "the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah." Jehoiakim, born as Eliakim, was the second-born son of the great reformer Josiah, who died in a rash attempt to prevent Pharoah Neco from passing through his kingdom to attack the Assyrians. The people of Judah (apparently) bypassed Jehoiakim for his younger brother, Jehoahaz (Jehovah his sustainer), who reigned only three months, and then Pharaoh Neco took Jehoahaz captive to Egypt and placed Josiah's older brother, Eliakim (God will establish), on the throne, but renaming him Jehoiakim (Jehovah will establish). Jehoiakim would reign for eleven years. Confused? It only gets worse. But ... it is extremely important to "get" the historical details here if you want to understand the Bible as the historical book it claims to be. Life in this vale of tears is not neat, but it does follow interesting patterns at all levels of resolution. Two more kings of Judah will follow, Jehoiachin (son of Jehoiakim) and Zedekiah (born Mattaniah, the youngest son of Josiah, renamed by Nebuchadnezzar). Length of reigns? 3 months (Jehoiachin) and 11 years (Zedekiah). See the pattern? What does it mean? If you have ideas, please let us know! Jenny and I have learned that there are no mistakes or haphazard elements in God's word. Another interesting element of the timestamp is that the third year of Jehoiakim is the first year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign over Bablyon. He was apparently attacking Egypt when his father, Nabopolassar, died. He probably stopped - on his way back to Babylon to be crowned king - to ravage Jerusalem and take Daniel and the other members of the royal family and nobility of Judah captive to Babylon. This means that Daniel and his friends were only in the second year of their three year course of studies to be "wise men" of the Chaldeans when they interpret the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter two! When we recognize this, these verses in chapter one takes on new meaning and significance: As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. Daniel 1:17–20 (ESV) God is indeed faithful to bless His people when they remain faithful to Him. "Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says YHWH of hosts." As usual, here is a good summary of the Book of Daniel that we highly recommend: https://youtu.be/9cSC9uobtPM?si=7DfciDVCCpbmkb62 May the Lord add richly to your knowledge of Him as you study!

We continue our project of reading ALL of God's word for our listeners. The book of Daniel is a favorite because of its amazing stories and prophetic visions, but it is also rich in detail and historical context. It opens circa 605 BC, timestamped as "the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah." Jehoiakim, born as Eliakim, was the second-born son of the great reformer Josiah, who died in a rash attempt to prevent Pharoah Neco from passing through his kingdom to attack the Assyrians. The people of Judah (apparently) bypassed Jehoiakim for his younger brother, Jehoahaz (Jehovah his sustainer), who reigned only three months, and then Pharaoh Neco took Jehoahaz captive to Egypt and placed Josiah's older brother, Eliakim (God will establish), on the throne, but renaming him Jehoiakim (Jehovah will establish). Jehoiakim would reign for eleven years. Confused? It only gets worse. But ... it is extremely important to "get" the historical details here if you want to understand the Bible as the historical book it claims to be. Life in this vale of tears is not neat, but it does follow interesting patterns at all levels of resolution. Two more kings of Judah will follow, Jehoiachin (son of Jehoiakim) and Zedekiah (born Mattaniah, the youngest son of Josiah, renamed by Nebuchadnezzar). Length of reigns? 3 months (Jehoiachin) and 11 years (Zedekiah). See the pattern? What does it mean? If you have ideas, please let us know! Jenny and I have learned that there are no mistakes or haphazard elements in God's word. Another interesting element of the timestamp is that the third year of Jehoiakim is the first year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign over Bablyon. He was apparently attacking Egypt when his father, Nabopolassar, died. He probably stopped - on his way back to Babylon to be crowned king - to ravage Jerusalem and take Daniel and the other members of the royal family and nobility of Judah captive to Babylon. This means that Daniel and his friends were only in the second year of their three year course of studies to be "wise men" of the Chaldeans when they interpret the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter two! When we recognize this, these verses in chapter one takes on new meaning and significance: As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. Daniel 1:17–20 (ESV) God is indeed faithful to bless His people when they remain faithful to Him. "Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says YHWH of hosts." As usual, here is a good summary of the Book of Daniel that we highly recommend: https://youtu.be/9cSC9uobtPM?si=7DfciDVCCpbmkb62 May the Lord add richly to your knowledge of Him as you study!

“Faithful in Exile” Daniel 1:1-14 March 23, 2025 Pastor John Choi  Sermon Application [file]   ----more---- Daniel 1:1 In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. [2] And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with some of the vessels of the house of God. And he brought them to the land of Shinar, to the house of his god, and placed the vessels in the treasury of his god. [3] Then the king commanded Ashpenaz, his chief eunuch, to bring some of the people of Israel, both of the royal family and of the nobility, [4] youths without blemish, of good appearance and skillful in all wisdom, endowed with knowledge, understanding learning, and competent to stand in the king's palace, and to teach them the literature and language of the Chaldeans. [5] The king assigned them a daily portion of the food that the king ate, and of the wine that he drank. They were to be educated for three years, and at the end of that time they were to stand before the king. [6] Among these were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah of the tribe of Judah. [7] And the chief of the eunuchs gave them names: Daniel he called Belteshazzar, Hananiah he called Shadrach, Mishael he called Meshach, and Azariah he called Abednego. [8] But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself. [9] And God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs, [10] and the chief of the eunuchs said to Daniel, “I fear my lord the king, who assigned your food and your drink; for why should he see that you were in worse condition than the youths who are of your own age? So you would endanger my head with the king.” [11] Then Daniel said to the steward whom the chief of the eunuchs had assigned over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, [12] “Test your servants for ten days; let us be given vegetables to eat and water to drink. [13] Then let our appearance and the appearance of the youths who eat the king's food be observed by you, and deal with your servants according to what you see.” [14] So he listened to them in this matter, and tested them for ten days.  God's people in exile fulfill His kingdom purposes by devoting themselves to His kingship and resisting worldly deception.     I.  The Exilic Experience of God's People    II.  The Context of Babylonian Exile (1-2)   III.  The World's Methods of Deception (3-7)   IV.  The Believer's Response to Worldly Deception (8-14)

When Chanania, Mishael and Azaria were saved from the fiery furnace, it shed a bad light on the rest of the Jews, as the gentiles said, if their God is so great, how can the rest of the people be worshipping idols! God wanted to destroy the rest of the Jews because they were worshipping idols, but when God saw the actions of Chanania, Mishael and Azaria, his anger subsided. The sages try to fill in some missing details from the story. What happened to Chanania, Mishael and Azaria after they were saved, as they are not directly heard from again? Several options are brought by amoraim and their opinions match those of tannaim. Where was Daniel when Chanania, Mishael and Azaria were thrown into the fire? Several possibilities are offered. According to a braita, God, Daniel and Nevuchadnetzer each did not want Daniel to be there - each for their own reason. Two false prophets named Achav and Tzidkia were also thrown into a fire by Nevuchadnetzer, but were killed. What is the background story? According to the midrash, Yehoshua the High Priest was sent in with them, but was only singed and came out alive. Why was Yehoshua punished? In the book of Ruth, Ruth tells Naomi that Boaz gave her six grains of barley. Bar Kapara extrapolated this verse to mean that by giving her six grains, he was alluding to her that six sons would be born to her who were each blessed with six blessings - David, the Messiah, Daniel, Chanania, Mishael and Azaria. Verses are brought to show how each was blessed in six ways. There is a debate, however, about Chanania, Mishael and Azaria's lineage and whether or not they were from the tribe of Judah. Yishayahu prophesizes to Chizkiyahu that his descendants will be taken to Babylonia and will become sarisim. The Gemara understands this to be referring to Daniel, Chanania, Mishael and Azaria. What is the meaning of the word sarisim in this context? Rav and Rabbi Chanina disagree. Does it mean they were eunuchs? Or does it mean they were cut off from worshipping idols? The Gemara raises two difficulties against Rav, that they were eunuchs, and one difficulty against Rabbi Chanina, that they were cut off from worshipping idols. The difficulties are brought from verses in Daniel and Yeshayahu but are resolved. Why was the book of Ezra, which much of it was said and written by Nechemia, not called Nechemia? Two suggestions are brought.

If you dream about a white horse (thanks to Zechariah's prophecy), that's a good thing (alluding to God's anger abating). Also, more on Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. With imports to Babylonia from Alexandria, possibly to the exclusion of breeding Egyptian hogs... Plus, Daniel and Nebuchadnezzar's idol. Plus, sexual immorality that is rejected by Nebuchadnezzar, no less. Plus, the experience of another three in the fiery furnace: Yehoshua, the high priest, Achav, and Tzidkiyahu (with a mini-study on Yehoshua, the high priest and a complicated interweaving of verses from many texts). Also, what traits are to be expected in the messiah? What about Bar Koziva who became Bar Kochba? After all, he said: I am the messiah! (What was his leadership? Could he have been the messiah? A false messiah?) Plus, the fortitude to withstand distraction, laughter, and the need for the bathroom, among other factors, when standing in the non-Jewish king's court. Plus, the way Jews are particularly geared to the messiah and redemption in historical periods of travail.

When Chanania, Mishael and Azaria were saved from the fiery furnace, it shed a bad light on the rest of the Jews, as the gentiles said, if their God is so great, how can the rest of the people be worshipping idols! God wanted to destroy the rest of the Jews because they were worshipping idols, but when God saw the actions of Chanania, Mishael and Azaria, his anger subsided. The sages try to fill in some missing details from the story. What happened to Chanania, Mishael and Azaria after they were saved, as they are not directly heard from again? Several options are brought by amoraim and their opinions match those of tannaim. Where was Daniel when Chanania, Mishael and Azaria were thrown into the fire? Several possibilities are offered. According to a braita, God, Daniel and Nevuchadnetzer each did not want Daniel to be there - each for their own reason. Two false prophets named Achav and Tzidkia were also thrown into a fire by Nevuchadnetzer, but were killed. What is the background story? According to the midrash, Yehoshua the High Priest was sent in with them, but was only singed and came out alive. Why was Yehoshua punished? In the book of Ruth, Ruth tells Naomi that Boaz gave her six grains of barley. Bar Kapara extrapolated this verse to mean that by giving her six grains, he was alluding to her that six sons would be born to her who were each blessed with six blessings - David, the Messiah, Daniel, Chanania, Mishael and Azaria. Verses are brought to show how each was blessed in six ways. There is a debate, however, about Chanania, Mishael and Azaria's lineage and whether or not they were from the tribe of Judah. Yishayahu prophesizes to Chizkiyahu that his descendants will be taken to Babylonia and will become sarisim. The Gemara understands this to be referring to Daniel, Chanania, Mishael and Azaria. What is the meaning of the word sarisim in this context? Rav and Rabbi Chanina disagree. Does it mean they were eunuchs? Or does it mean they were cut off from worshipping idols? The Gemara raises two difficulties against Rav, that they were eunuchs, and one difficulty against Rabbi Chanina, that they were cut off from worshipping idols. The difficulties are brought from verses in Daniel and Yeshayahu but are resolved. Why was the book of Ezra, which much of it was said and written by Nechemia, not called Nechemia? Two suggestions are brought.

Today's daf is sponsored by Yarden and Guy in honor of Leah Zelda Shechter's birthday! What happens to someone who doesn't teach Torah to others? What happens to someone who does? Rava, Ravina and Rav Ashi brought three more verses to prove the resurrection of the dead. Rabbi Elazar brought a statement relating to the resurrection of the dead. From there, the Gemara brings several statements from Rabbi Elazar about different topics, including the value of de'ah, leaving bread of the table in case a poor person shows up, and being humble. A braita from the school of Eliyahu teaches that when the dead are resurrected, they will not die again. The Gemara brings the verses in Ezekiel where Ezekiel brings the bones back to life. Can this be brought as a source for the resurrection of the dead or to prove that when they are brought back to life, they will not live forever? Various interpretations are brought to explain whether he really resurrected the dead (or was it just a parable) and if he did, whether they lived for a few moments or went on to lead full lives. Another question is who were the people who Ezekiel resurrected? Several suggestions are brought, and the last interpretation leads into the story of Chanania, Mishael, and Azarya.

We continue our project of reading ALL of God's word for our listeners. The book of Daniel is a favorite because of its amazing stories and prophetic visions, but it is also rich in detail and historical context. It opens circa 605 BC, timestamped as "the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah." Jehoiakim, born as Eliakim, was the second-born son of the great reformer Josiah, who died in a rash attempt to prevent Pharoah Neco from passing through his kingdom to attack the Assyrians. The people of Judah (apparently) bypassed Jehoiakim for his younger brother, Jehoahaz (Jehovah his sustainer), who reigned only three months, and then Pharaoh Neco took Jehoahaz captive to Egypt and placed Josiah's older brother, Eliakim (God will establish), on the throne, but renaming him Jehoiakim (Jehovah will establish). Jehoiakim would reign for eleven years. Confused? It only gets worse. But ... it is extremely important to "get" the historical details here if you want to understand the Bible as the historical book it claims to be. Life in this vale of tears is not neat, but it does follow interesting patterns at all levels of resolution. Two more kings of Judah will follow, Jehoiachin (son of Jehoiakim) and Zedekiah (born Mattaniah, the youngest son of Josiah, renamed by Nebuchadnezzar). Length of reigns? 3 months (Jehoiachin) and 11 years (Zedekiah). See the pattern? What does it mean? If you have ideas, please let us know! Jenny and I have learned that there are no mistakes or haphazard elements in God's word. Another interesting element of the timestamp is that the third year of Jehoiakim is the first year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign over Bablyon. He was apparently attacking Egypt when his father, Nabopolassar, died. He probably stopped - on his way back to Babylon to be crowned king - to ravage Jerusalem and take Daniel and the other members of the royal family and nobility of Judah captive to Babylon. This means that Daniel and his friends were only in the second year of their three year course of studies to be "wise men" of the Chaldeans when they interpret the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter two! When we recognize this, these verses in chapter one takes on new meaning and significance: As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. Daniel 1:17–20 (ESV) God is indeed faithful to bless His people when they remain faithful to Him. "Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says YHWH of hosts." As usual, here is a good summary of the Book of Daniel that we highly recommend: https://youtu.be/9cSC9uobtPM?si=7DfciDVCCpbmkb62 May the Lord add richly to your knowledge of Him as you study!

Today's daf is sponsored by Yarden and Guy in honor of Leah Zelda Shechter's birthday! What happens to someone who doesn't teach Torah to others? What happens to someone who does? Rava, Ravina and Rav Ashi brought three more verses to prove the resurrection of the dead. Rabbi Elazar brought a statement relating to the resurrection of the dead. From there, the Gemara brings several statements from Rabbi Elazar about different topics, including the value of de'ah, leaving bread of the table in case a poor person shows up, and being humble. A braita from the school of Eliyahu teaches that when the dead are resurrected, they will not die again. The Gemara brings the verses in Ezekiel where Ezekiel brings the bones back to life. Can this be brought as a source for the resurrection of the dead or to prove that when they are brought back to life, they will not live forever? Various interpretations are brought to explain whether he really resurrected the dead (or was it just a parable) and if he did, whether they lived for a few moments or went on to lead full lives. Another question is who were the people who Ezekiel resurrected? Several suggestions are brought, and the last interpretation leads into the story of Chanania, Mishael, and Azarya.

We continue our project of reading ALL of God's word for our listeners. The book of Daniel is a favorite because of its amazing stories and prophetic visions, but it is also rich in detail and historical context. It opens circa 605 BC, timestamped as "the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah." Jehoiakim, born as Eliakim, was the second-born son of the great reformer Josiah, who died in a rash attempt to prevent Pharoah Neco from passing through his kingdom to attack the Assyrians. The people of Judah (apparently) bypassed Jehoiakim for his younger brother, Jehoahaz (Jehovah his sustainer), who reigned only three months, and then Pharaoh Neco took Jehoahaz captive to Egypt and placed Josiah's older brother, Eliakim (God will establish), on the throne, but renaming him Jehoiakim (Jehovah will establish). Jehoiakim would reign for eleven years. Confused? It only gets worse. But ... it is extremely important to "get" the historical details here if you want to understand the Bible as the historical book it claims to be. Life in this vale of tears is not neat, but it does follow interesting patterns at all levels of resolution. Two more kings of Judah will follow, Jehoiachin (son of Jehoiakim) and Zedekiah (born Mattaniah, the youngest son of Josiah, renamed by Nebuchadnezzar). Length of reigns? 3 months (Jehoiachin) and 11 years (Zedekiah). See the pattern? What does it mean? If you have ideas, please let us know! Jenny and I have learned that there are no mistakes or haphazard elements in God's word. Another interesting element of the timestamp is that the third year of Jehoiakim is the first year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign over Bablyon. He was apparently attacking Egypt when his father, Nabopolassar, died. He probably stopped - on his way back to Babylon to be crowned king - to ravage Jerusalem and take Daniel and the other members of the royal family and nobility of Judah captive to Babylon. This means that Daniel and his friends were only in the second year of their three year course of studies to be "wise men" of the Chaldeans when they interpret the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter two! When we recognize this, these verses in chapter one takes on new meaning and significance: As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. Daniel 1:17–20 (ESV) God is indeed faithful to bless His people when they remain faithful to Him. "Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says YHWH of hosts." As usual, here is a good summary of the Book of Daniel that we highly recommend: https://youtu.be/9cSC9uobtPM?si=7DfciDVCCpbmkb62 May the Lord add richly to your knowledge of Him as you study!

We continue our project of reading ALL of God's word for our listeners. The book of Daniel is a favorite because of its amazing stories and prophetic visions, but it is also rich in detail and historical context. It opens circa 605 BC, timestamped as "the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah." Jehoiakim, born as Eliakim, was the second-born son of the great reformer Josiah, who died in a rash attempt to prevent Pharoah Neco from passing through his kingdom to attack the Assyrians. The people of Judah (apparently) bypassed Jehoiakim for his younger brother, Jehoahaz (Jehovah his sustainer), who reigned only three months, and then Pharaoh Neco took Jehoahaz captive to Egypt and placed Josiah's older brother, Eliakim (God will establish), on the throne, but renaming him Jehoiakim (Jehovah will establish). Jehoiakim would reign for eleven years. Confused? It only gets worse. But ... it is extremely important to "get" the historical details here if you want to understand the Bible as the historical book it claims to be. Life in this vale of tears is not neat, but it does follow interesting patterns at all levels of resolution. Two more kings of Judah will follow, Jehoiachin (son of Jehoiakim) and Zedekiah (born Mattaniah, the youngest son of Josiah, renamed by Nebuchadnezzar). Length of reigns? 3 months (Jehoiachin) and 11 years (Zedekiah). See the pattern? What does it mean? If you have ideas, please let us know! Jenny and I have learned that there are no mistakes or haphazard elements in God's word. Another interesting element of the timestamp is that the third year of Jehoiakim is the first year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign over Bablyon. He was apparently attacking Egypt when his father, Nabopolassar, died. He probably stopped - on his way back to Babylon to be crowned king - to ravage Jerusalem and take Daniel and the other members of the royal family and nobility of Judah captive to Babylon. This means that Daniel and his friends were only in the second year of their three year course of studies to be "wise men" of the Chaldeans when they interpret the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter two! When we recognize this, these verses in chapter one takes on new meaning and significance: As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. Daniel 1:17–20 (ESV) God is indeed faithful to bless His people when they remain faithful to Him. "Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says YHWH of hosts." As usual, here is a good summary of the Book of Daniel that we highly recommend: https://youtu.be/9cSC9uobtPM?si=7DfciDVCCpbmkb62 May the Lord add richly to your knowledge of Him as you study!

Pastor John Bornschein and Dr. Steve Ford examine the Bold Faith of Daniel and his friends, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah from Daniel 1:10-21. Support the showProduced by Calvary Fellowship Fountain Valley church. Learn more at www.CalvaryFountain.com

We continue our project of reading ALL of God's word for our listeners. The book of Daniel is a favorite because of its amazing stories and prophetic visions, but it is also rich in detail and historical context. It opens circa 605 BC, timestamped as "the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah." Jehoiakim, born as Eliakim, was the second-born son of the great reformer Josiah, who died in a rash attempt to prevent Pharoah Neco from passing through his kingdom to attack the Assyrians. The people of Judah (apparently) bypassed Jehoiakim for his younger brother, Jehoahaz (Jehovah his sustainer), who reigned only three months, and then Pharaoh Neco took Jehoahaz captive to Egypt and placed Josiah's older brother, Eliakim (God will establish), on the throne, but renaming him Jehoiakim (Jehovah will establish). Jehoiakim would reign for eleven years. Confused? It only gets worse. But ... it is extremely important to "get" the historical details here if you want to understand the Bible as the historical book it claims to be. Life in this vale of tears is not neat, but it does follow interesting patterns at all levels of resolution. Two more kings of Judah will follow, Jehoiachin (son of Jehoiakim) and Zedekiah (born Mattaniah, the youngest son of Josiah, renamed by Nebuchadnezzar). Length of reigns? 3 months (Jehoiachin) and 11 years (Zedekiah). See the pattern? What does it mean? If you have ideas, please let us know! Jenny and I have learned that there are no mistakes or haphazard elements in God's word. Another interesting element of the timestamp is that the third year of Jehoiakim is the first year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign over Bablyon. He was apparently attacking Egypt when his father, Nabopolassar, died. He probably stopped - on his way back to Babylon to be crowned king - to ravage Jerusalem and take Daniel and the other members of the royal family and nobility of Judah captive to Babylon. This means that Daniel and his friends were only in the second year of their three year course of studies to be "wise men" of the Chaldeans when they interpret the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter two! When we recognize this, these verses in chapter one takes on new meaning and significance: As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. Daniel 1:17–20 (ESV) God is indeed faithful to bless His people when they remain faithful to Him. "Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says YHWH of hosts." As usual, here is a good summary of the Book of Daniel that we highly recommend: https://youtu.be/9cSC9uobtPM?si=7DfciDVCCpbmkb62 May the Lord add richly to your knowledge of Him as you study!

We continue our project of reading ALL of God's word for our listeners. The book of Daniel is a favorite because of its amazing stories and prophetic visions, but it is also rich in detail and historical context. It opens circa 605 BC, timestamped as "the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah." Jehoiakim, born as Eliakim, was the second-born son of the great reformer Josiah, who died in a rash attempt to prevent Pharoah Neco from passing through his kingdom to attack the Assyrians. The people of Judah (apparently) bypassed Jehoiakim for his younger brother, Jehoahaz (Jehovah his sustainer), who reigned only three months, and then Pharaoh Neco took Jehoahaz captive to Egypt and placed Josiah's older brother, Eliakim (God will establish), on the throne, but renaming him Jehoiakim (Jehovah will establish). Jehoiakim would reign for eleven years. Confused? It only gets worse. But ... it is extremely important to "get" the historical details here if you want to understand the Bible as the historical book it claims to be. Life in this vale of tears is not neat, but it does follow interesting patterns at all levels of resolution. Two more kings of Judah will follow, Jehoiachin (son of Jehoiakim) and Zedekiah (born Mattaniah, the youngest son of Josiah, renamed by Nebuchadnezzar). Length of reigns? 3 months (Jehoiachin) and 11 years (Zedekiah). See the pattern? What does it mean? If you have ideas, please let us know! Jenny and I have learned that there are no mistakes or haphazard elements in God's word. Another interesting element of the timestamp is that the third year of Jehoiakim is the first year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign over Bablyon. He was apparently attacking Egypt when his father, Nabopolassar, died. He probably stopped - on his way back to Babylon to be crowned king - to ravage Jerusalem and take Daniel and the other members of the royal family and nobility of Judah captive to Babylon. This means that Daniel and his friends were only in the second year of their three year course of studies to be "wise men" of the Chaldeans when they interpret the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter two! When we recognize this, these verses in chapter one takes on new meaning and significance: As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. Daniel 1:17–20 (ESV) God is indeed faithful to bless His people when they remain faithful to Him. "Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says YHWH of hosts." As usual, here is a good summary of the Book of Daniel that we highly recommend: https://youtu.be/9cSC9uobtPM?si=7DfciDVCCpbmkb62 May the Lord add richly to your knowledge of Him as you study!

We continue our project of reading ALL of God's word for our listeners. The book of Daniel is a favorite because of its amazing stories and prophetic visions, but it is also rich in detail and historical context. It opens circa 605 BC, timestamped as "the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah." Jehoiakim, born as Eliakim, was the second-born son of the great reformer Josiah, who died in a rash attempt to prevent Pharoah Neco from passing through his kingdom to attack the Assyrians. The people of Judah (apparently) bypassed Jehoiakim for his younger brother, Jehoahaz (Jehovah his sustainer), who reigned only three months, and then Pharaoh Neco took Jehoahaz captive to Egypt and placed Josiah's older brother, Eliakim (God will establish), on the throne, but renaming him Jehoiakim (Jehovah will establish). Jehoiakim would reign for eleven years. Confused? It only gets worse. But ... it is extremely important to "get" the historical details here if you want to understand the Bible as the historical book it claims to be. Life in this vale of tears is not neat, but it does follow interesting patterns at all levels of resolution. Two more kings of Judah will follow, Jehoiachin (son of Jehoiakim) and Zedekiah (born Mattaniah, the youngest son of Josiah, renamed by Nebuchadnezzar). Length of reigns? 3 months (Jehoiachin) and 11 years (Zedekiah). See the pattern? What does it mean? If you have ideas, please let us know! Jenny and I have learned that there are no mistakes or haphazard elements in God's word. Another interesting element of the timestamp is that the third year of Jehoiakim is the first year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign over Bablyon. He was apparently attacking Egypt when his father, Nabopolassar, died. He probably stopped - on his way back to Babylon to be crowned king - to ravage Jerusalem and take Daniel and the other members of the royal family and nobility of Judah captive to Babylon. This means that Daniel and his friends were only in the second year of their three year course of studies to be "wise men" of the Chaldeans when they interpret the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter two! When we recognize this, these verses in chapter one takes on new meaning and significance: As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. Daniel 1:17–20 (ESV) God is indeed faithful to bless His people when they remain faithful to Him. "Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says YHWH of hosts." As usual, here is a good summary of the Book of Daniel that we highly recommend: https://youtu.be/9cSC9uobtPM?si=7DfciDVCCpbmkb62 May the Lord add richly to your knowledge of Him as you study!

2 Now in the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadnezzar dreamed dreams; and his spirit was troubled and his sleep left him. 2 So the king said to call the magicians and the conjurers and the sorcerers and the ⌊astrologers⌋ to tell to the king his dreams. And they came in and they stood ⌊before⌋ the king. 3 And the king said to them, “⌊I have had a dream⌋ and my spirit is anxious to know the dream.” 4 And the ⌊astrologers⌋ said to the king in Aramaic, “O king, live forever! Tell the dream to your servants and we will reveal the explanation.” 5 The king answered and said to the ⌊astrologers⌋, “The command from me is firm: if you do not make known to me the dream and its explanation, then you will be broken into pieces and your houses will be laid in ruins. 6 But if you tell me the dream and its explanation, you will receive gifts and rewards and great honor from me. Therefore, tell me the dream and its explanation.” 7 They answered once more and said, “Let the king tell the dream to his servants and we will make the explanation known.” 8 The king answered and said, “⌊Certainly⌋ I know that ⌊you are trying to gain time⌋ ⌊because⌋ you have seen ⌊that this matter is firmly decreed by me⌋, 9 for if you do not make the dream known to me, ⌊your verdict is fixed⌋, and you have conspired to say a lying and deceitful word to me until the ⌊circumstances⌋ will change. Therefore, tell me the dream, and I will know that you can tell me its explanation.” 10 The ⌊astrologers⌋ answered the king and said, “There is not a man on earth that is able to reveal the word of the king; ⌊in fact⌋, no great and powerful king has ever asked a thing like this of any magician or conjurer or ⌊astrologer⌋. 11 And the thing that the king is asking is too difficult and ⌊there is no one who⌋ can reveal it to the king except the gods ⌊whose dwelling is not with mortals⌋.” 12 Because of this the king became angry, and he became very much enraged, and he said that all the wise men of Babylon are to be destroyed. 13 And the decree was issued, and the wise men ⌊were on the verge of being executed⌋, and they searched for Daniel and his companions to be executed. 14 Then Daniel responded prudently and discretely to Arioch, the commander of the imperial guard of the king, who had gone out to execute the wise men of Babylon. 15 ⌊He asked⌋ and said to Arioch, the royal official of the king, “⌊Why⌋ is the decree from the king so severe?” Then Arioch explained the matter to Daniel. 16 And Daniel went in and requested from the king that he would give him time, and ⌊he would tell the king⌋ the explanation. 17 Then Daniel went to his home, and he made the matter known to Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, his companions, 18 and told them to seek mercy ⌊from the God of heaven⌋ concerning this mystery, so that Daniel and his companions, along with the remainder of the wise men of Babylon, would not be killed. 19 Then in a vision of the night the mystery was revealed to Daniel; then Daniel blessed the God of heaven. 20 Daniel ⌊said⌋: “Let his name, the name of God, be blessed ⌊throughout the ages⌋, for the wisdom and the power ⌊are his⌋. 21 And he changes the times and the seasons, and he deposes kings and he sets up kings; he gives wisdom to wise men and knowledge to men who know understanding. 22 He reveals the deep and the hidden things; he knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with him. 23 To you, O God of my ancestors, I give thanks and I give praises, for the wisdom and the power you gave to me, and now you have made known to me what we have asked from you, for you have made known to us the matter of the king.” Daniel Praises God and Interprets the King's Dream24 ⌊Therefore⌋ Daniel went to Arioch, whom the king had appointed to destroy the wise men of Babylon; he went and thus he said to him: “You must not destroy the wise men of Babylon; take me in before the king and I will give the explanation to the king.” 25 Then Arioch ⌊quickly⌋ brought Daniel in before the king and thus he said to him: “I have found a man among ⌊the exiles⌋ of Judah who ⌊can relate⌋ the explanation to the king.” 26 ⌊The king then asked⌋ and said to Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, “Are you able to make known to me the dream that I have seen and its explanation?” 27 Daniel answered the king and said, “The mystery that the king asks, no wise men, conjurers, magicians, or diviners are able to make known to the king. 28 But there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and he has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what it is that will be at the end of days. This is your dream and the visions of your head on your bed. 29 “As for you, king, your thoughts on your bed ⌊turned to⌋ what it was that would be ⌊in the future⌋, and the revealer of mysteries has made known to you what that would be. 30 And as for me, it is not because of wisdom that is in me more than ⌊any other living person⌋ that this mystery is revealed to me, but ⌊in order that⌋ the explanation may be made known to the king and you will ⌊understand⌋ the thoughts of your ⌊mind⌋. 31 “You, O king, were looking and, look, there was one great statue. This statue was huge and its brilliance extraordinary, standing there before you, and its appearance was frightening. 32 The head of this statue was of fine gold, its chest and its arms of silver, its belly and its thighs of bronze, 33 its legs of iron, its feet, part of them of iron and part of them of clay. 34 You were looking on ⌊until⌋ a stone was chiseled out—that not by hands—and it struck the statue on its feet of iron and clay, and it broke them in pieces. 35 Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver and the gold ⌊all at once⌋ broke into pieces and they became like chaff from the summer threshing floor, and the wind carried them away and any trace of them could not be found. But the stone that struck the statue became a great mountain and it filled the whole earth. 36 “This was the dream, and now we will tell its interpretation to the king. 37 You, O king, the king of kings, to whom the God of heaven has given the kingdom, the power and the might and the glory, 38 and also ⌊human beings wherever they dwell⌋, the animals of the field and the birds of heaven—he has given into your hand and made you ruler over all of them—you are the head of gold. 39 And after you another kingdom inferior to yours will arise, and another third kingdom of bronze that will rule over the whole earth. 40 And a fourth kingdom will be strong as iron, and ⌊just as⌋ iron crushes and smashes ⌊everything⌋, and as iron shatters all of these other metals, so it will crush and it will shatter these nations. 41 ⌊And just as⌋ you saw the feet and the toes, ⌊partly potter's clay⌋ and ⌊partly iron⌋, it will be a divided kingdom; and ⌊some hardness⌋ of the iron will be in it, ⌊just as⌋ you have seen the iron mixed with the wet clay. 42 And as the toes of the feet were partly iron and partly clay, so part of the kingdom will be strong ⌊and partly brittle⌋. 43 And in that you saw the iron was mixed with wet clay, so ⌊they will mix in marriage⌋ and they will not cling ⌊to one another⌋, just as iron does not mix with clay. 44 And ⌊in the day of those kings⌋, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will ⌊never⌋ be destroyed, and the kingdom will not be left for another nation, and it will bring an end to all these kingdoms, but it will stand ⌊forever⌋. 45 ⌊Inasmuch as⌋ you saw that a stone from the mountain was chiseled out but not by hands, and that it crushed the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver and the gold, thereby the great God made known to the king what will be ⌊in the future⌋, and the dream is certain and its explanation trustworthy.” The King's Response to Daniel and His God46 Then the king, Nebuchadnezzar, fell on his face and he paid homage to Daniel; and he commanded them to offer a grain offering and incense offering to him. 47 The king answered Daniel and said, “⌊Truly⌋ your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings, and he reveals mysteries, for you are able to reveal this mystery.” 48 Then the king promoted Daniel and gave him many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon and the chief prefect over all the wise men of Babylon. 49 And Daniel made a request from the king, and he appointed Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego over the affairs of the province of Babylon, while Daniel remained in the court of the king. W. Hall Harris III et al., eds., The Lexham English Bible (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2012), Da 2:1–49.

We continue our project of reading ALL of God's word for our listeners. The book of Daniel is a favorite because of its amazing stories and prophetic visions, but it is also rich in detail and historical context. It opens circa 605 BC, timestamped as "the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah." Jehoiakim, born as Eliakim, was the second-born son of the great reformer Josiah, who died in a rash attempt to prevent Pharoah Neco from passing through his kingdom to attack the Assyrians. The people of Judah (apparently) bypassed Jehoiakim for his younger brother, Jehoahaz (Jehovah his sustainer), who reigned only three months, and then Pharaoh Neco took Jehoahaz captive to Egypt and placed Josiah's older brother, Eliakim (God will establish), on the throne, but renaming him Jehoiakim (Jehovah will establish). Jehoiakim would reign for eleven years. Confused? It only gets worse. But ... it is extremely important to "get" the historical details here if you want to understand the Bible as the historical book it claims to be. Life in this vale of tears is not neat, but it does follow interesting patterns at all levels of resolution. Two more kings of Judah will follow, Jehoiachin (son of Jehoiakim) and Zedekiah (born Mattaniah, the youngest son of Josiah, renamed by Nebuchadnezzar). Length of reigns? 3 months (Jehoiachin) and 11 years (Zedekiah). See the pattern? What does it mean? If you have ideas, please let us know! Jenny and I have learned that there are no mistakes or haphazard elements in God's word. Another interesting element of the timestamp is that the third year of Jehoiakim is the first year of Nebuchadnezzar's reign over Bablyon. He was apparently attacking Egypt when his father, Nabopolassar, died. He probably stopped - on his way back to Babylon to be crowned king - to ravage Jerusalem and take Daniel and the other members of the royal family and nobility of Judah captive to Babylon. This means that Daniel and his friends were only in the second year of their three year course of studies to be "wise men" of the Chaldeans when they interpret the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in chapter two! When we recognize this, these verses in chapter one takes on new meaning and significance: As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. Daniel 1:17–20 (ESV) God is indeed faithful to bless His people when they remain faithful to Him. "Return unto me, and I will return unto you, says YHWH of hosts." As usual, here is a good summary of the Book of Daniel that we highly recommend: https://youtu.be/9cSC9uobtPM?si=7DfciDVCCpbmkb62 May the Lord add richly to your knowledge of Him as you study!

Daniel Taken to Babylon1 In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. 2 And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with some of the vessels of the house of God. And he brought them to the land of Shinar, to the house of his god, and placed the vessels in the treasury of his god. 3 Then the king commanded Ashpenaz, his chief eunuch, to bring some of the people of Israel, both of the royal family and of the nobility, 4 youths without blemish, of good appearance and skillful in all wisdom, endowed with knowledge, understanding learning, and competent to stand in the king's palace, and to teach them the literature and language of the Chaldeans. 5 The king assigned them a daily portion of the food that the king ate, and of the wine that he drank. They were to be educated for three years, and at the end of that time they were to stand before the king. 6 Among these were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah of the tribe of Judah. 7 And the chief of the eunuchs gave them names: Daniel he called Belteshazzar, Hananiah he called Shadrach, Mishael he called Meshach, and Azariah he called Abednego. Daniel's Faithfulness8 But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself. 9 And God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs, 10 and the chief of the eunuchs said to Daniel, “I fear my lord the king, who assigned your food and your drink; for why should he see that you were in worse condition than the youths who are of your own age? So you would endanger my head with the king.” 11 Then Daniel said to the steward whom the chief of the eunuchs had assigned over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, 12 “Test your servants for ten days; let us be given vegetables to eat and water to drink. 13 Then let our appearance and the appearance of the youths who eat the king's food be observed by you, and deal with your servants according to what you see.” 14 So he listened to them in this matter, and tested them for ten days. 15 At the end of ten days it was seen that they were better in appearance and fatter in flesh than all the youths who ate the king's food. 16 So the steward took away their food and the wine they were to drink, and gave them vegetables. 17 As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. 18 At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. 19 And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. 20 And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. 21 And Daniel was there until the first year of King Cyrus. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Da 1:1–21.

Istrouma Baptist Church (BR) Jan 12, 2025 ========== January 12 - Daniel Welcome! We're glad you've joined us today for our Sunday morning worship service! For more information about Istrouma, go to istrouma.org or contact us at info@istrouma.org. We glorify God by making disciples of all nations. ========== Connection Card https://istrouma.org/myinfo January 12, 2025 - Tim Keith "Staying Faithful in an Unfaithful World" ‭‭Daniel‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭21‬‬ In the third year of the reign of King Jehoiakim  of Judah, King Nebuchadnezzar , of Babylon came to Jerusalem and laid siege to it. The Lord handed King Jehoiakim of Judah over to him, along with some of the vessels from the house of God.  Nebuchadnezzar carried them to the land of Babylon, , to the house of his god,  and put the vessels in the treasury of his god. The king ordered Ashpenaz, his chief eunuch, to bring some of the Israelites from the royal family  and from the nobility #— # young men without any physical defect, good-looking, suitable for instruction in all wisdom,  knowledgeable, perceptive, and capable of serving in the king's palace.  He was to teach them the Chaldean language  and literature. The king assigned them daily provisions from the royal food and from the wine that he drank.  They were to be trained for three years, and at the end of that time they were to attend the king. , Among them, from the Judahites, were Daniel,  Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. The chief eunuch gave them names; he gave the name Belteshazzar to Daniel, Shadrach to Hananiah, Meshach to Mishael, and Abednego to Azariah.  Daniel determined that he would not defile himself with the king's food  or with the wine he drank. So he asked permission from the chief eunuch not to defile himself.  God had granted Daniel kindness and compassion from the chief eunuch,  yet he said to Daniel, “I fear my Lord the king, who assigned your food and drink. What if he sees your faces looking thinner than the other young men your age? You would endanger my life  with the king.” So Daniel said to the guard whom the chief eunuch had assigned to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, “Please test your servants for ten days. Let us be given vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then examine our appearance and the appearance of the young men who are eating the king's food, and deal with your servants based on what you see.” He agreed with them about this and tested them for ten days. At the end of ten days they looked better and healthier  than all the young men who were eating the king's food.  So the guard continued to remove their food and the wine they were to drink and gave them vegetables. God gave these four young men knowledge and understanding  in every kind of literature and wisdom. Daniel also understood visions and dreams  of every kind. At the end of the time that the king had said to present them, the chief eunuch presented them to Nebuchadnezzar. The king interviewed them, and among all of them, no one was found equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah.  So they began to attend the king. In every matter of wisdom and understanding that the king consulted them about, he found them ten times , better than all the magicians and mediums  in his entire kingdom. Daniel remained there until the first year of King Cyrus. Determine to Honor God Do What You've Determined ‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭22‬-‭25‬‬ But  be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. Because if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like someone looking at his own face  in a mirror. For he looks at himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of person he was. But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom and perseveres in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer who works #— #this person will be blessed in what he does. Worship Guide Poll Please let us know your thoughts http://poll-maker.com/poll5375483x6A57440a-161 Want to receive weekly announcements in your inbox each week? https://istrouma.org/email Give Online Text ISTROUMA IBC to 73256 or go to: https://istrouma.org/give Our Website https://istrouma.org

Istrouma Baptist Church (ASC) Jan 12, 2025 ========== January 12 - Daniel Welcome! We're glad you've joined us today for our Sunday morning worship service! For more information about Istrouma, go to istrouma.org or contact us at info@istrouma.org. We glorify God by making disciples of all nations. ========== Connection Card https://istrouma.org/myinfo "A Case Study in Faithfulness" Daniel 1:1-7 1. God is present and active in and over world history. 2. God is present and active in and over personal history. 3. God is and will be present and active in your life today and tomorrow. ‭‭Daniel‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭7‬‬ In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with some of the vessels of the house of God. And he brought them to the land of Shinar, to the house of his god, and placed the vessels in the treasury of his god. Then the king commanded Ashpenaz, his chief eunuch, to bring some of the people of Israel, both of the royal family and of the nobility, youths without blemish, of good appearance and skillful in all wisdom, endowed with knowledge, understanding learning, and competent to stand in the king's palace, and to teach them the literature and language of the Chaldeans. The king assigned them a daily portion of the food that the king ate, and of the wine that he drank. They were to be educated for three years, and at the end of that time they were to stand before the king. Among these were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah of the tribe of Judah. And the chief of the eunuchs gave them names: Daniel he called Belteshazzar, Hananiah he called Shadrach, Mishael he called Meshach, and Azariah he called Abednego.

Istrouma en Español Jan 12 – 14, 2025 ========== 12 de Enero, 2025 Decisiones que Definen tu Fe Daniel 1.1-21 ========== ‭‭Daniel‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭21‬‬ En el año tercero del reinado de Joacim rey de Judá, vino Nabucodonosor rey de Babilonia a Jerusalén, y la sitió. Y el Señor entregó en sus manos a Joacim rey de Judá, y parte de los utensilios de la casa de Dios; y los trajo a tierra de Sinar, a la casa de su dios, y colocó los utensilios en la casa del tesoro de su dios. Y dijo el rey a Aspenaz, jefe de sus eunucos, que trajese de los hijos de Israel, del linaje real de los príncipes, muchachos en quienes no hubiese tacha alguna, de buen parecer, enseñados en toda sabiduría, sabios en ciencia y de buen entendimiento, e idóneos para estar en el palacio del rey; y que les enseñase las letras y la lengua de los caldeos. Y les señaló el rey ración para cada día, de la provisión de la comida del rey, y del vino que él bebía; y que los criase tres años, para que al fin de ellos se presentasen delante del rey. Entre estos estaban Daniel, Ananías, Misael y Azarías, de los hijos de Judá. A estos el jefe de los eunucos puso nombres: puso a Daniel, Beltsasar; a Ananías, Sadrac; a Misael, Mesac; y a Azarías, Abed-nego. Y Daniel propuso en su corazón no contaminarse con la porción de la comida del rey, ni con el vino que él bebía; pidió, por tanto, al jefe de los eunucos que no se le obligase a contaminarse. Y puso Dios a Daniel en gracia y en buena voluntad con el jefe de los eunucos; y dijo el jefe de los eunucos a Daniel: Temo a mi señor el rey, que señaló vuestra comida y vuestra bebida; pues luego que él vea vuestros rostros más pálidos que los de los muchachos que son semejantes a vosotros, condenaréis para con el rey mi cabeza. Entonces dijo Daniel a Melsar, que estaba puesto por el jefe de los eunucos sobre Daniel, Ananías, Misael y Azarías: Te ruego que hagas la prueba con tus siervos por diez días, y nos den legumbres a comer, y agua a beber. Compara luego nuestros rostros con los rostros de los muchachos que comen de la ración de la comida del rey, y haz después con tus siervos según veas. Consintió, pues, con ellos en esto, y probó con ellos diez días. Y al cabo de los diez días pareció el rostro de ellos mejor y más robusto que el de los otros muchachos que comían de la porción de la comida del rey. Así, pues, Melsar se llevaba la porción de la comida de ellos y el vino que habían de beber, y les daba legumbres. A estos cuatro muchachos Dios les dio conocimiento e inteligencia en todas las letras y ciencias; y Daniel tuvo entendimiento en toda visión y sueños. Pasados, pues, los días al fin de los cuales había dicho el rey que los trajesen, el jefe de los eunucos los trajo delante de Nabucodonosor. Y el rey habló con ellos, y no fueron hallados entre todos ellos otros como Daniel, Ananías, Misael y Azarías; así, pues, estuvieron delante del rey. En todo asunto de sabiduría e inteligencia que el rey les consultó, los halló diez veces mejores que todos los magos y astrólogos que había en todo su reino. Y continuó Daniel hasta el año primero del rey Ciro. 1. "Decidió ser fiel por encima de su posición" (Daniel 1:8) No permitió que el privilegio de la mesa del rey comprometiera su relación con el Rey de reyes. 2️. "Defendió su identidad por encima de la presión" (Daniel 1:12-13) Su lealtad a Dios no dependía de su entorno, sino de su convicción. 3️. "Depositó su confianza en Dios por encima de las circunstancias" (Daniel 1:17) Sabía que Dios respalda a los que son fieles, incluso en medio de sistemas opresivos. ‭‭Daniel‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭21‬‬ In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with some of the vessels of the house of God. And he brought them to the land of Shinar, to the house of his god, and placed the vessels in the treasury of his god. Then the king commanded Ashpenaz, his chief eunuch, to bring some of the people of Israel, both of the royal family and of the nobility, youths without blemish, of good appearance and skillful in all wisdom, endowed with knowledge, understanding learning, and competent to stand in the king's palace, and to teach them the literature and language of the Chaldeans. The king assigned them a daily portion of the food that the king ate, and of the wine that he drank. They were to be educated for three years, and at the end of that time they were to stand before the king. Among these were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah of the tribe of Judah. And the chief of the eunuchs gave them names: Daniel he called Belteshazzar, Hananiah he called Shadrach, Mishael he called Meshach, and Azariah he called Abednego. But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself. And God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs, and the chief of the eunuchs said to Daniel, “I fear my Lord the king, who assigned your food and your drink; for why should he see that you were in worse condition than the youths who are of your own age? So you would endanger my head with the king.” Then Daniel said to the steward whom the chief of the eunuchs had assigned over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, “Test your servants for ten days; let us be given vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then let our appearance and the appearance of the youths who eat the king's food be observed by you, and deal with your servants according to what you see.” So he listened to them in this matter, and tested them for ten days. At the end of ten days it was seen that they were better in appearance and fatter in flesh than all the youths who ate the king's food. So the steward took away their food and the wine they were to drink, and gave them vegetables. As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. And Daniel was there until the first year of King Cyrus. 1. "He decided to be faithful above his position" (Daniel 1:8) He did not allow the privilege of the king's table to compromise his relationship with the King of kings. 2️. "He defended his identity above the pressure" (Daniel 1:12-13) His loyalty to God did not depend on his surroundings, but on his conviction. 3️. "He placed his trust in God above the circumstances" (Daniel 1:17) He knew that God supports those who are faithful, even in the midst of oppressive systems. [Image] https://imageproxy.youversionapi.com/640x640/https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/mushroom-event-images-prod/117574509-1705700493680.jpg [Image] https://imageproxy.youversionapi.com/640x640/https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/mushroom-event-images-prod/117574509-1697561260831.jpg Regístrate ¡Si es la primera vez que asistes te invitamos a que te registres utilizando el siguiente link! https://istrouma.org/nuevo Nuestro Facebook Link de nuestro facebook donde nuestros servicios estarán en vivo ¡Acompáñanos! https://www.facebook.com/IBCespanol/ Visita nuestra pagina oficial: ¡Te esperamos! https://istrouma.org/espanol

I greet you in Jesus' precious Name! It is Wednesday morning, the 4th of December, 2024, and this is your friend, Angus Buchan, with a thought for today. We start in the Book of Daniel 1:7:”…he gave Daniel the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abed-Nego.” Then we go to John 1:42: “Now when Jesus looked at him, He said, “You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas” (which is translated, A Stone).”Lastly we go to the Book of Acts 13:9:”Then Saul, who also is called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit…” - the power in a name. Now when the Name of Jesus is spoken there is either a riot or a revival. You know people have died for that Name, they have been burnt alive; they have been fed to the lions; they have been disowned by their families. Yes, it's the Name above every other name on earth or in heaven. At the very mention of that Name blind eyes are opened, deaf ears unstopped, the dead have been raised, sins have been forgiven and brand new life is born.2 Corinthians 5:17 says:”Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” We need to be very careful when we choose a name for our newborn baby because that name has tremendous significance. Today folks, when you go out, mention the Name of Jesus. When people ask you: ”Who do you believe in?” Don't say, ”I believe in God.” Because that is generic, God is whoever you presume him to be, he might be the trees that you are worshipping. When you say the Name Jesus, that's when there is power in the Name. Oh, I love that Name so much. Treat that Name with the utmost care.God bless you and have a wonderful day,Goodbye.

Daniel 2 : 17-23 17 Then Daniel returned to his house and explained the matter to his friends Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. 18 He urged them to plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that he and his friends might not be executed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. 19 During the night the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven 20 and said: “Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever;    wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons;    he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise    and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things;    he knows what lies in darkness,    and light dwells with him. I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors:    You have given me wisdom and power, you have made known to me what we asked of you, you have made known to us the dream of the king.” The Word of Lord. This is SASSY, I pray the release of the kingdom of God into your life. Connect with Pastor Yasmin O'Lugudor: Instagram: [@yasmin_o_lugudor] ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/yasmin_o_lugudor/⁠⁠ Youtube: [Yasmin O'Lugudor]  ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFMhc2-gpHvmDVUVE_bA_QA⁠⁠ Email: ⁠sassy@yasminolugudor.com⁠ Produced By The Christ Creatives: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the_christ_creatives/⁠

View the Bulletin for Wednesday, November 20, 2024Worship Service: 2:00 p.m.Bible Study: 2:30 p.m. — The Book of HebrewsAll are welcome, bring a friend, neighbor or relativeVisit our YouTube channel — Click the red “subscribe” box, and then click on the “bell” next to that box to receive Live Streaming notifications. You must be logged into YouTube to activate these features.Archive of AUDIO “Readings & Sermons”Archive of VIDEO “Complete Service”Archive of BULLETINSDaniel 1:1-21In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with some of the vessels of the house of God. And he brought them to the land of Shinar, to the house of his god, and placed the vessels in the treasury of his god. Then the king commanded Ashpenaz, his chief eunuch, to bring some of the people of Israel, both of the royal family and of the nobility, youths without blemish, of good appearance and skillful in all wisdom, endowed with knowledge, understanding learning, and competent to stand in the king's palace, and to teach them the literature and language of the Chaldeans. The king assigned them a daily portion of the food that the king ate, and of the wine that he drank. They were to be educated for three years, and at the end of that time they were to stand before the king. Among these were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah of the tribe of Judah. And the chief of the eunuchs gave them names: Daniel he called Belteshazzar, Hananiah he called Shadrach, Mishael he called Meshach, and Azariah he called Abednego.But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself. And God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs, and the chief of the eunuchs said to Daniel, “I fear my lord the king, who assigned your food and your drink; for why should he see that you were in worse condition than the youths who are of your own age? So you would endanger my head with the king.” Then Daniel said to the steward whom the chief of the eunuchs had assigned over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, “Test your servants for ten days; let us be given vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then let our appearance and the appearance of the youths who eat the king's food be observed by you, and deal with your servants according to what you see.” So he listened to them in this matter, and tested them for ten days. At the end of ten days it was seen that they were better in appearance and fatter in flesh than all the youths who ate the king's food. So the steward took away their food and the wine they were to drink, and gave them vegetables.As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. And Daniel was there until the first year of King Cyrus.Matthew 28:1-20Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.”While they were going, behold, some of the guard went into the city and told the chief priests all that had taken place. And when they had assembled with the elders and taken counsel, they gave a sufficient sum of money to the soldiers and said, “Tell people, ‘His disciples came by night and stole him away while we were asleep.' And if this comes to the governor's ears, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” So they took the money and did as they were directed. And this story has been spread among the Jews to this day.Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”The Lord's Prayer - The Second PetitionWhat is the Second Petition?Thy kingdom come.What does this mean?The kingdom of God certainly comes by itself without our prayer, but we pray in this petition that it may come to us also.How does God's kingdom come?God's kingdom comes when our heavenly Father gives us His Holy Spirit, so that by His grace we believe His holy Word and lead godly lives here in time and there in eternity.

And all the people gathered as one man into the square before the Water Gate. And they told Ezra the scribe to bring the Book of the Law of Moses that the Lord had commanded Israel. 2 So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, both men and women and all who could understand what they heard, on the first day of the seventh month. 3 And he read from it facing the square before the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of the men and the women and those who could understand. And the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law. 4 And Ezra the scribe stood on a wooden platform that they had made for the purpose. And beside him stood Mattithiah, Shema, Anaiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah on his right hand, and Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchijah, Hashum, Hashbaddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam on his left hand. 5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was above all the people, and as he opened it all the people stood.6 And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God, and all the people answered, “Amen, Amen,” lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground.7 Also Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, the Levites,[a]helped the people to understand the Law, while the people remained in their places. 8 They read from the book, from the Law of God, clearly,[b] and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading. 9 And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law.10 Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” 11 So the Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be quiet, for this day is holy; do not be grieved.” 12 And all the people went their way to eat and drink and to send portions and to make great rejoicing, because they had understood the words that were declared to them.

Mishael Morgan, an Emmy award-winning actress, is renowned for her trailblazing roles on The Young and the Restless, and a blend of resilience, faith, and a relentless pursuit of growth marks her journey in the entertainment industry. Reflecting on her career, Morgan acknowledges the uncertainty and challenges she faced, such as the writer's strike and leaving a successful soap opera. However, she emphasizes her support from the universe in her decisions to explore new opportunities. Her transition from acting to executive producing has deepened her appreciation for storytelling and fueled her desire to have more control over her creative projects while also creating spaces for diverse voices, particularly for Black women in Hollywood. Ultimately, Morgan views her career as a continuous journey of rediscovery, driven by her passion for acting and storytelling and a commitment to authenticity, self-reflection, and personal growth.   Key takeaways: - Childhood experiences shape personal development and coping mechanisms - Authenticity fosters genuine connections and repels those not in alignment - Following true passion leads to personal fulfillment despite challenges - Self-reflection and self-compassion are crucial for balance and growth - Prioritizing what feels right and finding harmony in life is essential - Investing in personal growth involves understanding harmony over balance - Preparation during slow periods leads to future success and career balance Stay connected with Mishael online: Website Instagram Stay connected with us online: MakiniSmith.com Legacy Leavers Media Facebook Instagram Threads Youtube LinkedIn Books Send feedback/questions to info@awalkinmystilettos.com Submit guest suggestions HERE Make a donation to keep the show going!   Podcast music produced by: defnottyrell This episode is brought to you by Herbal Face Food. Since early 2022, Makini has taken her skin back with this natural skincare routine. It's: Vegan Cruelty-free Synthetic Fragrance-free Paraben free Organic/Wildcrafted Handmade GMP free Ethically Sourced It heals melasma, psoriasis, and acne scars, treats deep wrinkles, and clears up eczema on Makini's face. Use promo code "Makini30" for 30% off ALL PLANT facial products.

Send us a textHananiah, Mishael and Azariah were faced with a challenge: bend the knee or die.  They chose to obey God and forfeit their lives.  What does that look like for us today? Join Tiana as she takes us through a few stories in Scripture about not compromising.Scriptures:Acts 8Psalm 139Support the showTo learn more visit: www.madetoconquerpodcast.comTune into my other podcast: www.TheWarriorsRising.com

Dominion: The PlanIf we were going to condense the Book of Daniel down to one word, the word would be dominion. It is about who controls the events of this world and who is sovereign in your life.Within Christianity many would claim that God has dominion in their life, but what is the purpose of that dominion? How do we react when events in our life don't go as we think they should? This week we'll look at the contrast between King Hezekiah and Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah's approach to God's dominion.Let us know your thoughts by reaching out and joining the conversation with your questions and comments using the information below:Text/Voicemail: 407-965-1607Email: podcast@wholelife.church#ThisIsWholeLifeBOOK MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Daniel by Desmond Ford: https://this-is-whole-life.captivate.fm/daniel-by-desmond-fordGet Connected with WholeLife! Reach out and let us know how we can serve you: http://wholelife.church/connectSUBSCRIBE NOW to our weekly companion podcast, Speaking of Grace, to listen to the message this episode is based on and where our pastors and guest speakers invite you into a lifelong friendship with God. Never miss another message or series again! Take it with you in the car, at home, on your phone, on your smartwatch, and in your earbuds, wherever life takes you!This Is WholeLife features Pastors Ken Wetmore and Melanie Bockmann, with Digital Content Creator Lucas Moraes, and Communication Director Randy Magray as the host. It is available everywhere you listen to podcasts! If you've enjoyed this episode, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts or your favorite platform and share it with your family, friends, and social media, where you will find us at the following links! X, Facebook, Instagram, and now on YouTube! Thank you for listening! To learn more about our podcasts at WholeLife Church, visit the Podcasts page on our website.NEXT WEEK: 10/26/24 - Dominion: Nebuchadnezzar's DreamTo learn more about WholeLife Church, visit our website: www.WholeLife.ChurchFind out what's happening at WholeLife Church by...

Today's Scripture passages are Jeremiah 12 - 13:14 | Daniel 3 | Acts 4:1-22.Read by Christina Edmondson.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode at ivpress.com.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

Send us a textAs the gates of Yom Kippur draw to a close, Rabbi Bernath calls us to embrace the profound and unwavering strength of the “Even If” mindset—a faith, love, and joy that endure beyond ideal conditions. Drawing on the story of Chananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, who faced the Babylonian furnace with unyielding courage, Rabbi Bernath parallels this with modern-day heroes who embody this same resilient spirit. Through stories of extraordinary bravery, he challenges us to live a life defined not by the conditional “If,” but by a steadfast “Even If”—an approach that can transform our relationships, our happiness, and our spiritual commitments as we enter the new year.Key Takeaways:Faith Beyond Conditions: Chananiah, Mishael, and Azariah exemplify an “Even If” faith that does not depend on favorable outcomes. We are called to cultivate a similarly unshakeable commitment to our values, regardless of life's challenges.Modern Heroes of “Even If”: The recent heroes of Israel, like Oz Davidian, displayed an extraordinary resolve, acting courageously even when circumstances seemed impossible. Their stories inspire us to consider what kind of faith we hold in the face of adversity.The ‘If' vs. ‘Even If' Mindset: The conditional “If” mindset limits us, while the “Even If” mindset liberates us to embrace life's imperfections and challenges with resilience. Whether in our relationships, faith, or personal happiness, “Even If” invites us to live fully and meaningfully.Applying ‘Even If' to Mitzvot and Life: Rabbi Bernath encourages each of us to commit to a new mitzvah, not when it's convenient, but even if it seems difficult. By taking on mitzvot and acts of kindness with an “Even If” spirit, we forge a deeper connection to G-d and our community.A Call to Wake Up Even More: Just as Yom Kippur is a time of awakening, Rabbi Bernath invites us to go further, to “wake up even more.” As we enter the new year, this heightened awareness will help us transform not only our lives but also the world around us.Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah stood strong together and relied on one another. You are not alone; everyone is fighting a battle. We can rely on one another for strength. 

Fr. Mike shares one of his favorite Bible verses, and guides us through the story of Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah as they are thrown into the fiery furnace. He also emphasizes the significance of their Hebrew names, and how powerful name changes are in Scripture. Today's readings are Jeremiah 22, Daniel 3, and Proverbs 15:29-33. 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.

In this Bible Story, we were introduced to Daniel and his friends Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. The three young men are specially chosen out of the Judaen captives to sit under the king as wise men. King Nebuchadnezzar attempts to indoctrinate them into Babylonian ways, however they prove that following the Lord proves to be more useful for human flourishing. This story is inspired by Daniel 1:1-16. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Daniel 1:8 from the King James Version.Episode 162: The kingdoms of Israel and Judah had fallen and the men of nobility were taken captive. Among these handsome and well educated men were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. These four feared God and though they were brought into the King's court to be influenced, God used them to skillfully influence the King and his men instead.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.