Podcasts about nasb

Call: Isaiah 41:10 Scripture: Zechariah 12:1-14 NASB

Susan was once asked, "If you have to choose a scripture that captures your 'worldview,' what would it be?"After a moment of thinking, she came back with Micah 6:8, a verse that has been on one of her handy scripture notecards for as long as she could remember.To finish out our "The Word Speaks" series, Susan talks about what it means to follow the steps laid out in Micah 6:8 - with some help from Brook Smith.For more information on SOZO House, click here: SOZO House - Rest. Heal. Renew.If you are interested in the hermeneutics (the in-depth interpretation) of Micah 6:8 that Brook read on this episode, we've posted it below for you!via CHATGptExcellent question! Let's take a close hermeneutical look at Micah 6:8, especially the word translated mercy or kindness.⸻ The Verse (NIV)“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.And what does the Lord require of you?To act justly and to love mercyand to walk humbly with your God.”⸻ Key Hebrew WordThe word translated “mercy” or “kindness” in this verse is חֶסֶד (ḥesed).    •    Root meaning: It doesn't translate neatly into one English word. It's a rich Hebrew concept encompassing steadfast love, covenant faithfulness, loyalty, mercy, loving-kindness, goodness.    •    Some translations use kindness (ESV, NASB), others mercy (KJV, NIV), and still others steadfast love (ESV footnote, RSV).⸻ Hermeneutical Layers    1.    Lexical Analysis    •    ḥesed implies not just a feeling of kindness but a covenant-committed love.    •    It is often used to describe God's faithful love toward Israel (e.g., Exodus 34:6–7, Psalm 136).    2.    Contextual Analysis    •    Micah contrasts outward ritual sacrifices (vv. 6–7) with the inward life God desires.    •    Instead of “buying off” God with burnt offerings, He requires His people to live out justice (mishpat), mercy (ḥesed), and humility (ṣanaʿ).    •    Here, ḥesed is about faithful, relational love toward others, reflecting God's own covenant love.    3.    Theological Analysis    •    This isn't just about doing kind deeds; it's about embodying God's steadfast mercy in relationships.    •    It emphasizes ethical living flowing from covenant identity: God has shown mercy → His people must live mercifully.⸻ SummaryIn Micah 6:8, the word “mercy/kindness” (ḥesed) is best understood as:“Faithful, covenantal love expressed through compassionate action toward others, reflecting God's own loyal love.”So it's not only “be nice” or “show pity,” but live with steadfast loyalty, mercy, and loving-kindness as a way of life.

“Therefore a lion from the forest will slay them, A wolf of the deserts will destroy them, A leopard is watching their cities. Everyone who goes out of them will be torn in pieces, Because their transgressions are many, Their apostasies are numerous.”Jeremiah 5:6 NASB

James 1:19-20 (NASB) 19 You know this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Now everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger; 20 for a man's anger does not bring about the righteousness of God. Theme: Growing in godly communication/speech is an integral part of every Christian's spiritual maturity. Three Keys to Godly Communication 1) Open your ears (1:19) 2) Control your tongue (1:19) 3) Control your emotions (1:19-20)

Call: Psalm 146 Offering: Acts 20:35- Scripture: Revelation 2:12-17 NASB

Hagar, with a child running away from her mistress, in an awful circumstance, not of her doing, heard the Angel of the Lord in Genesis 16, and believed Him. Alone, pregnant in a circumstance not of her choosing, Hagar believed the Lord and went back to the source of her troubles. Her attitude is revealed in her worship as she submitted to God, for she now knew:"Then she called the name of the LORD who spoke to her, 'Thou art a God who sees'; for she said, 'Have I even remained alive here after seeing Him?" Genesis 16:13Our So What?We are seen by El Roi, the God who sees. Even as Hagar called Him, the God who sees me!What a glory! How will knowing that we serve El Roi enhance our faith and our conversation with our Savior?Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen1 Timothy 1:17Brethren, let's pray for one another. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 151

Weekly Sermon, October 19th, 2025 Colossians 3:5-14 (NASB)

Episode 2.50Who Said It? The Quotation Debate in James 2:18–19What if a single pair of quotation marks changed how you understand faith and works?In this episode of Take 2 Theology, Zach and Michael unpack one of the most overlooked translation debates in the New Testament—who's actually speaking in James 2:18–19?Since the original Greek had no quotation marks, translators must decide how long the “someone will say” quotation runs. Does it end quickly (like in the ESV)? Continue through verse 19 (NASB)? Or include both verses (NIV, NRSV)? Each choice changes how we hear James's tone—rebuke, debate, or diatribe.Covered in this episode:– How Greek manuscripts handled quotations and voices– The short, medium, and long quotation theories– Why modern Bibles make different punctuation choices– What leading commentators (Moo, Davids, Blomberg) argue– How punctuation affects tone but not theologyIn the end, James's message stands: “Faith without works is dead.”But understanding how he said it might change how we hear him.Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/O_swkautrVsMerch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

Who is this King of Glory? The Builder and Architect of All Things."For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God." Hebrews 3:4"The LORD by wisdom founded the earth; By understanding He established the heavens." Proverbs 3:19"Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman keeps awake in vain. 2 It is vain for you to rise up early, To retire late, To eat the bread of painful labors; For He gives to His beloved even in his sleep." Psalm 127:1-2Our so What?The reasons there are architects and builders in the complexities in building a building to its intended purpose. (I do not understand either, but am amazed by all the planners and doers I know. Cause I can't do either. That's a freebie.)How are our prayers, our conversation, our close community with our God formed by knowing and trusting the Builder and Architect?Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen1 Timothy 1:17Brethren, let's pray for one another. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 150

Our Daily Portion Podcast is a daily podcast to help us stay in God's Word daily.  We follow the Daily Torah Portion schedule utilizing the NASB translation. The scripture is read, a nugget is shared, and prayer closes us out.  Go to pursuitfortruth.com for more information about WIT Ministries.

What does a life of Christian obedience look like? How can we take our faith seriously without being a Pharisee? Works vs faith?! Tune in!Article with charts about the various Bible translationsTatiana's NASB study BibleLeah's NIV study BibleReach out to Tati!Leah's Website

“Let Israel be glad in his Maker; Let the sons of Zion rejoice in their King. 3 Let them praise His name with dancing; Let them sing praises to Him with timbrel and lyre. 4 For the LORD takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the afflicted ones with salvation.”We are trained for war, but battle is scary. Today we see how exactly we are held and protected by our Father, Son and Holy Spirit in the day of battle. “The eternal God is a dwelling place, And underneath are the everlasting arms; And He drove out the enemy from before you, And said, ‘Destroy!'”Deuteronomy 33”27“My lovingkindness and my fortress, My stronghold and my deliverer; My shield and He in whom I take refuge; Who subdues my people under me.”Psalm 144:2Our so what?What is your response to His loving everlasting arms, and Him being our fortress, My stronghold and my deliverer; My shield and He in whom I take refuge?Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen1 Timothy 1:17Brethren, let's pray for one another. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 149

Our Daily Portion Podcast is a daily podcast to help us stay in God's Word daily.  We follow the Daily Torah Portion schedule utilizing the NASB translation. The scripture is read, a nugget is shared, and prayer closes us out.  Go to pursuitfortruth.com for more information about WIT Ministries.

No longer will I make the claim to catch up. The Lord has something else in mind, obviously. But we will crack on with our October Surprise and see what other surprises are in store!Today, we look at God, our Trainer. We know the battlefield terms are:"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, 4 for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. 5 We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ," 2 Corinthians 10:3-5We know Jesus is our example.And we know the Holy Spirit is our practical Trainer."But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. John 16:13Our So What?Our affections and the content of our communion with God change as we meditate on our mission and our Trainer. How?Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen1 Timothy 1:17Brethren, let's pray for one another. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 148

A man named Jack accidentally fell off the edge of a steep cliff. On the way down he was able to grab ahold of a branch, which temporarily stopped his fall. He looked down and to his horror discovered that there were hundreds of feet between him and the bottom of the canyon. He couldnt hang onto the branch forever, and there was no way for him to climb up the steep wall of the cliff. So Jack began yelling for help, hoping that someone passing by would hear him. HELP! HELP! Is anyone up there? HELP! He yelled for a long time, but no one heard him. He was about to give up when he heard a voice. Jack, Jack. Can you hear me? Yes, yes! I can hear you. Im down here! I can see you, Jack. Are you all right? Yes, but who are you, and where are you? I am the Lord, Jack. Im everywhere. The Lord? You mean, GOD? Thats Me. God, please help me! I promise if, youll get me down from here, Ill stop sinning. Ill be a really good person. Ill serve You for the rest of my life. Easy on the promises, Jack. Lets get you off from there, then we can talk. Now, heres what I want you to do. Listen carefully. Ill do anything, Lord. Just tell me what to do. Okay. Let go of the branch. What? I said, let go of the branch. Just trust Me. Let go. There was a long silence. Finally Jack yelled, HELP! HELP! IS ANYONE ELSE UP THERE? What is faith? Here is the way the Bible defines it: Faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see (Heb. 11:1; BSB). Abraham became known for that kind of faith, but it took a lifetime for him to get to the place of utter dependance upon God. I am not sure what Abrahams hopes and dreams were before he met God, but his home was in the City of Ur where Nanna, the Mesopotamian Moon god, was worshiped and his wife and family lived. Although childless, Abraham was prosperous, settled, and old. What he may or may not have known was that he was a descendant of Noah ten generations removed. When Abraham first heard God's calling, he was seventy-five years old, and his wife Sarah was sixty-five (see Gen. 12:4; 17:17). Despite their advanced age and the fact that they had no children, God gave Abraham a remarkable promise: I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed (Gen. 12:1-3). This was a profound and hopeful message, especially considering that Abrahams birth name was Abram, meaning Exalted Fathera title that must have felt ironic for a man with no children at seventy-five, and a wife (Sarai) ten years his junior. The name Abram brings to mind other individuals who have been given ironic or unfortunate names, such as the character mentioned in the following well-known song lyric: Well, my daddy left home when I was threeDidn't leave very much to my mom and meExcept this old guitar and an empty bottle of boozeNow I don't blame him 'cause he run and hidBut the meanest thing that my daddy ever didWas before he left, he went and named me Sue[1] God made three foundational promises to Abraham: first, He pledged to give him a land of his own; second, He vowed that Abraham would become the father of a vast multitude of descendants; and third, He assured that all nations would be blessed through him, signifying Gods plan of redemption. Trusting in these promises, Abraham left his home in Ur and journeyed to the land that God would reveal to him. The Promise (Gen. 17:1-9) Before we get to Genesis 17, I need to help you appreciate what Abraham (still Abram) was feeling and experiencing. When we come to Genesis 15, Abraham and Sarah are still childless about 10 years after they were promised a child! Abraham followed God out of obedience and brought his wife with him on the basis of a promise made by God that included many descendants, land, and a legacy that would bless multitudes in the future! At 85ish years old, God reassured Abraham (Abram), but what Gods reassurance was is up for debate based on the different ways Genesis 15:1 can be translated. Consider the ways NASB and the NKJV translated this verse: Do not fear, Abram, I am a shield to you; Your reward shall be very great. (NASB2020) Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward. (NKJV) So what is it? Based on Gods promise in Genesis 13:1-3 and how He will reiterate the promise later in Genesis 15, I think it is both. Here is one way you could paraphrase this verse: Because I am your reward, your reward will be great. Abraham was about ready to give up on believing the promise include a biological son, but then God swore on behalf of His own name that He would honor the promise He made to Abram and Sarah. God then entered into what is called a unilateral covenant of which He was obligated to honor that was not conditioned on anything that Abram did or did not do. God swore to Abraham (Abram), One who will come from your own body will be your heir (15:4b). What was Abrahams response? We are told in Genesis 15: Then he believed in the Lord; and He credited it to him as righteousness. Then about a year later, Sarah (still Sarai) developed a plan for her husband to get her maid, Hagar, pregnant; to have the heir God promised through her. After all, God said the promised heir would come from Abraham a year ago but did not seem to mention Sarai! So again, the forces of darkness were at work to prevent the Descendent promised to Adam and Eve, who would crush the head of the serpent from ever being born.[2] Hagar did get pregnant with Abrahams child, but all that did was bring more dysfunction into Abrahams home, among other problems. Abraham (still Abram) was 86 and Sarah (still Sarai) 76, with no child to show for the promise God made long ago. Now we come to the promise made yet again in Genesis 17, but this time it is 24 years since the couple left Ur and 13 years since the whole mess they create with Hagar and the birth of Ishmael. Before I go any further, let that settle in your heart and mind for a moment. For 24 years Abraham and Sarah waited, longed, hoped for the son that Almighty God promised them. Then 13 years later while Ishmael had reached the age of maturity and Abram resigned that there would be no heir by Ishmael, God appeared to Abraham (still Abram) and spoke yet again: I am God Almighty; Walk before Me, and be blameless. I will make My covenant between Me and you, and I will multiply you exceedingly (17:1-2). It is in this moment that God gave Abram the name Abraham which means father of a multitude. The blessing would not come through Ishmael, but through another son. So that there would be no room for confusion, God said to Abraham: As for your wife Sarai, you shall not call her by the name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. I will bless her, and indeed I will give you a son by her. Then I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples will come from her (17:1516). Abrahams response is understandable: Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed, and said in his heart, Will a child be born to a man a hundred years old? And will Sarah, who is ninety years old, give birth to a child? (v. 17). Nearly one year later, when Abraham was 100 years old and Sarah was 90 years old, she gave birth to Isaac, the son of promise (Gen. 21:1-8). The promise made to Adam and Eve, to Noah, and to Abraham would now come through Isaac. A promise that included land, descendants (a great multitude), and the blessing of the nations. Abraham received the promise when he was 75 and his wife past menopause which means to have a child together would have been a miracle at their respective ages, but for 90-year-old Sarah to carry the child of her 100-year-old husband was impossible! And that is the point, isnt it? There was nothing that Abraham or Sarah could do to make Gods promise possible, they could not make it happen sooner, they could not adjust Gods timing, all that they could do is trust and wait for God to do only what He could in His own timing. Their part in Gods promise was to trust, obey, and wait. The Promise of a Better Son (Gen. 22) We are not told how many years it was after Isaacs birth, but when we come to Genesis 22 we are told that God spoke to Abraham and said some of the most horrific words Abraham would ever hear: Then He said, Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you (Gen. 22:2). Things were different this time; Abraham was different this time, for he had known God for many years since he was first called out of his homeland. The Bible tells us that that Abraham, ...got up early in the morning and saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him and his son Isaac; and he split wood for the burnt offering, and set out and went to the place of which God had told him (v. 3). There were no arguments, no debate, no protest Abraham simply obeyed because He believed if he followed through with the sacrifice of his own son; God was big enough to raise him up from death to life. This is why when Abraham took Isaac up the mountain, he told the young men he brought with him: Then Abraham said to his young men, Stay here with the donkey, and I and the boy will go over there; and we will worship and return to you (v. 5). Although the exact number of years between Isaacs birth and Gods command for Abraham to sacrifice his son is not specified in the text, we can make a reasonable estimate based on several clues about Isaacs age. First, Isaac was old enough to walk alongside his father for the entire three-day journey while Abraham, advanced in years, rode a donkey. Second, Isaac had the strength to carry the wood for the burnt offering up the rugged slope of Mount Moriah after days of travel. Third, Isaac was old enough to make a critical observation: Isaac spoke to his father Abraham and said, My father! And he said, Here I am, my son. And he said, Look, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for the burnt offering? (v. 7). These details suggest that Isaac was not a small child; my guess is that he was at least 13 years old. There is something else you should be aware of about Abraham and Isaacs journey and what was said to the young men just before Abraham and Isaac made their way up Mt. Moriah: The journey would take 3 days to get to the place of Isaacs sacrifice. Most scholars believe that Mt. Moriah was the site where Jerusalem would eventually be built. On the third day, Abraham said to the young men, Stay here with the donkey, and I and the boy will go over there; and we will worship and return to you (v. 5). In other words, Abraham believed that there would be a resurrection after he slaughtered his son... ON THE THIRD DAY! So what happened? Did Abraham follow through with what God commanded? Abraham had seen too much to doubt Gods ability and character to do what He had promised. God promised a child through whom would come a great multitude and the nations would be blessed. Here is what happened: Then they came to the place of which God had told him; and Abraham built the altar there and arranged the wood, and bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. And Abraham reached out with his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son. But the angel of the Lord called to him from heaven and said, Abraham, Abraham! And he said, Here I am. He said, Do not reach out your hand against the boy, and do not do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me. Then Abraham raised his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a ram caught in the thicket by its horns; and Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering in the place of his son. Abraham would have followed through with killing his one and only son had God not stopped him because no longer did he put God in a box He was too big for any boxes because now He knew His God. What was Gods response? He simply reiterated His covenant promise: By Myself I have sworn, declares the Lord, because you have done this thing and have not withheld your son, your only son, indeed I will greatly bless you, and I will greatly multiply your seed as the stars of the heavens and as the sand, which is on the seashore; and your seed shall possess the gate of their enemies. And in your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice (Gen. 22:16-18). Why did God command Abraham to sacrifice his son, and why did He refer to the child as, your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac (v. 2)? The significance lies in the foreshadowing of a greater Son who would come from Isaacs lineageJesus Christ, Gods own Son. In other words, Isaacs story points forward to a future sacrifice on another mount known as Golgotha, God the Father would do what He prevented Abraham from doing: He would slaughter His only unique Son, whom He loved, for the sins of the multitudes to redeem a people for himself by the blood of the greater and more perfect Isaac! While the "lesser Isaac" was confused and unsure of the purpose for the wood he carried, the "greater Isaac," Jesus Christ, carried a wooden cross fully aware of why He was doing it and with unwavering commitment to die in our place as the Lamb of God. Where God provided a ram to spare Isaac, Jesus willingly became our substitute, submitting to the Father's will and taking on the penalty for our sins. Isaac had to be bound before being placed on the altar, but Jesus embraced the cross freely, allowing sinful men to bound Him to the cross on our behalf. Oh dear brothers and sisters, Jesus Christ is the true and better Isaac of whom the Scriptures testify: God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Cor. 5:21). [1] Johnny Cash,A Boy Named Sue,performed by Johnny Cash, written by Shel Silverstein, recorded at San Quentin State Prison, 24 Feb. 1969, released onAt San Quentin,Columbia Records, 1969. [2] Now Sarai, Abrams wife, had not borne him a child, but she had an Egyptian slave woman whose name was Hagar. So Sarai said to Abram, See now, the Lord has prevented me from bearing children. Please have relations with my slave woman; perhaps I will obtain children through her. And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai. (Gen. 16:12)

A man named Jack accidentally fell off the edge of a steep cliff. On the way down he was able to grab ahold of a branch, which temporarily stopped his fall. He looked down and to his horror discovered that there were hundreds of feet between him and the bottom of the canyon. He couldnt hang onto the branch forever, and there was no way for him to climb up the steep wall of the cliff. So Jack began yelling for help, hoping that someone passing by would hear him. HELP! HELP! Is anyone up there? HELP! He yelled for a long time, but no one heard him. He was about to give up when he heard a voice. Jack, Jack. Can you hear me? Yes, yes! I can hear you. Im down here! I can see you, Jack. Are you all right? Yes, but who are you, and where are you? I am the Lord, Jack. Im everywhere. The Lord? You mean, GOD? Thats Me. God, please help me! I promise if, youll get me down from here, Ill stop sinning. Ill be a really good person. Ill serve You for the rest of my life. Easy on the promises, Jack. Lets get you off from there, then we can talk. Now, heres what I want you to do. Listen carefully. Ill do anything, Lord. Just tell me what to do. Okay. Let go of the branch. What? I said, let go of the branch. Just trust Me. Let go. There was a long silence. Finally Jack yelled, HELP! HELP! IS ANYONE ELSE UP THERE? What is faith? Here is the way the Bible defines it: Faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see (Heb. 11:1; BSB). Abraham became known for that kind of faith, but it took a lifetime for him to get to the place of utter dependance upon God. I am not sure what Abrahams hopes and dreams were before he met God, but his home was in the City of Ur where Nanna, the Mesopotamian Moon god, was worshiped and his wife and family lived. Although childless, Abraham was prosperous, settled, and old. What he may or may not have known was that he was a descendant of Noah ten generations removed. When Abraham first heard God's calling, he was seventy-five years old, and his wife Sarah was sixty-five (see Gen. 12:4; 17:17). Despite their advanced age and the fact that they had no children, God gave Abraham a remarkable promise: I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed (Gen. 12:1-3). This was a profound and hopeful message, especially considering that Abrahams birth name was Abram, meaning Exalted Fathera title that must have felt ironic for a man with no children at seventy-five, and a wife (Sarai) ten years his junior. The name Abram brings to mind other individuals who have been given ironic or unfortunate names, such as the character mentioned in the following well-known song lyric: Well, my daddy left home when I was threeDidn't leave very much to my mom and meExcept this old guitar and an empty bottle of boozeNow I don't blame him 'cause he run and hidBut the meanest thing that my daddy ever didWas before he left, he went and named me Sue[1] God made three foundational promises to Abraham: first, He pledged to give him a land of his own; second, He vowed that Abraham would become the father of a vast multitude of descendants; and third, He assured that all nations would be blessed through him, signifying Gods plan of redemption. Trusting in these promises, Abraham left his home in Ur and journeyed to the land that God would reveal to him. The Promise (Gen. 17:1-9) Before we get to Genesis 17, I need to help you appreciate what Abraham (still Abram) was feeling and experiencing. When we come to Genesis 15, Abraham and Sarah are still childless about 10 years after they were promised a child! Abraham followed God out of obedience and brought his wife with him on the basis of a promise made by God that included many descendants, land, and a legacy that would bless multitudes in the future! At 85ish years old, God reassured Abraham (Abram), but what Gods reassurance was is up for debate based on the different ways Genesis 15:1 can be translated. Consider the ways NASB and the NKJV translated this verse: Do not fear, Abram, I am a shield to you; Your reward shall be very great. (NASB2020) Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward. (NKJV) So what is it? Based on Gods promise in Genesis 13:1-3 and how He will reiterate the promise later in Genesis 15, I think it is both. Here is one way you could paraphrase this verse: Because I am your reward, your reward will be great. Abraham was about ready to give up on believing the promise include a biological son, but then God swore on behalf of His own name that He would honor the promise He made to Abram and Sarah. God then entered into what is called a unilateral covenant of which He was obligated to honor that was not conditioned on anything that Abram did or did not do. God swore to Abraham (Abram), One who will come from your own body will be your heir (15:4b). What was Abrahams response? We are told in Genesis 15: Then he believed in the Lord; and He credited it to him as righteousness. Then about a year later, Sarah (still Sarai) developed a plan for her husband to get her maid, Hagar, pregnant; to have the heir God promised through her. After all, God said the promised heir would come from Abraham a year ago but did not seem to mention Sarai! So again, the forces of darkness were at work to prevent the Descendent promised to Adam and Eve, who would crush the head of the serpent from ever being born.[2] Hagar did get pregnant with Abrahams child, but all that did was bring more dysfunction into Abrahams home, among other problems. Abraham (still Abram) was 86 and Sarah (still Sarai) 76, with no child to show for the promise God made long ago. Now we come to the promise made yet again in Genesis 17, but this time it is 24 years since the couple left Ur and 13 years since the whole mess they create with Hagar and the birth of Ishmael. Before I go any further, let that settle in your heart and mind for a moment. For 24 years Abraham and Sarah waited, longed, hoped for the son that Almighty God promised them. Then 13 years later while Ishmael had reached the age of maturity and Abram resigned that there would be no heir by Ishmael, God appeared to Abraham (still Abram) and spoke yet again: I am God Almighty; Walk before Me, and be blameless. I will make My covenant between Me and you, and I will multiply you exceedingly (17:1-2). It is in this moment that God gave Abram the name Abraham which means father of a multitude. The blessing would not come through Ishmael, but through another son. So that there would be no room for confusion, God said to Abraham: As for your wife Sarai, you shall not call her by the name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. I will bless her, and indeed I will give you a son by her. Then I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples will come from her (17:1516). Abrahams response is understandable: Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed, and said in his heart, Will a child be born to a man a hundred years old? And will Sarah, who is ninety years old, give birth to a child? (v. 17). Nearly one year later, when Abraham was 100 years old and Sarah was 90 years old, she gave birth to Isaac, the son of promise (Gen. 21:1-8). The promise made to Adam and Eve, to Noah, and to Abraham would now come through Isaac. A promise that included land, descendants (a great multitude), and the blessing of the nations. Abraham received the promise when he was 75 and his wife past menopause which means to have a child together would have been a miracle at their respective ages, but for 90-year-old Sarah to carry the child of her 100-year-old husband was impossible! And that is the point, isnt it? There was nothing that Abraham or Sarah could do to make Gods promise possible, they could not make it happen sooner, they could not adjust Gods timing, all that they could do is trust and wait for God to do only what He could in His own timing. Their part in Gods promise was to trust, obey, and wait. The Promise of a Better Son (Gen. 22) We are not told how many years it was after Isaacs birth, but when we come to Genesis 22 we are told that God spoke to Abraham and said some of the most horrific words Abraham would ever hear: Then He said, Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you (Gen. 22:2). Things were different this time; Abraham was different this time, for he had known God for many years since he was first called out of his homeland. The Bible tells us that that Abraham, ...got up early in the morning and saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him and his son Isaac; and he split wood for the burnt offering, and set out and went to the place of which God had told him (v. 3). There were no arguments, no debate, no protest Abraham simply obeyed because He believed if he followed through with the sacrifice of his own son; God was big enough to raise him up from death to life. This is why when Abraham took Isaac up the mountain, he told the young men he brought with him: Then Abraham said to his young men, Stay here with the donkey, and I and the boy will go over there; and we will worship and return to you (v. 5). Although the exact number of years between Isaacs birth and Gods command for Abraham to sacrifice his son is not specified in the text, we can make a reasonable estimate based on several clues about Isaacs age. First, Isaac was old enough to walk alongside his father for the entire three-day journey while Abraham, advanced in years, rode a donkey. Second, Isaac had the strength to carry the wood for the burnt offering up the rugged slope of Mount Moriah after days of travel. Third, Isaac was old enough to make a critical observation: Isaac spoke to his father Abraham and said, My father! And he said, Here I am, my son. And he said, Look, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for the burnt offering? (v. 7). These details suggest that Isaac was not a small child; my guess is that he was at least 13 years old. There is something else you should be aware of about Abraham and Isaacs journey and what was said to the young men just before Abraham and Isaac made their way up Mt. Moriah: The journey would take 3 days to get to the place of Isaacs sacrifice. Most scholars believe that Mt. Moriah was the site where Jerusalem would eventually be built. On the third day, Abraham said to the young men, Stay here with the donkey, and I and the boy will go over there; and we will worship and return to you (v. 5). In other words, Abraham believed that there would be a resurrection after he slaughtered his son... ON THE THIRD DAY! So what happened? Did Abraham follow through with what God commanded? Abraham had seen too much to doubt Gods ability and character to do what He had promised. God promised a child through whom would come a great multitude and the nations would be blessed. Here is what happened: Then they came to the place of which God had told him; and Abraham built the altar there and arranged the wood, and bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. And Abraham reached out with his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son. But the angel of the Lord called to him from heaven and said, Abraham, Abraham! And he said, Here I am. He said, Do not reach out your hand against the boy, and do not do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me. Then Abraham raised his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a ram caught in the thicket by its horns; and Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering in the place of his son. Abraham would have followed through with killing his one and only son had God not stopped him because no longer did he put God in a box He was too big for any boxes because now He knew His God. What was Gods response? He simply reiterated His covenant promise: By Myself I have sworn, declares the Lord, because you have done this thing and have not withheld your son, your only son, indeed I will greatly bless you, and I will greatly multiply your seed as the stars of the heavens and as the sand, which is on the seashore; and your seed shall possess the gate of their enemies. And in your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice (Gen. 22:16-18). Why did God command Abraham to sacrifice his son, and why did He refer to the child as, your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac (v. 2)? The significance lies in the foreshadowing of a greater Son who would come from Isaacs lineageJesus Christ, Gods own Son. In other words, Isaacs story points forward to a future sacrifice on another mount known as Golgotha, God the Father would do what He prevented Abraham from doing: He would slaughter His only unique Son, whom He loved, for the sins of the multitudes to redeem a people for himself by the blood of the greater and more perfect Isaac! While the "lesser Isaac" was confused and unsure of the purpose for the wood he carried, the "greater Isaac," Jesus Christ, carried a wooden cross fully aware of why He was doing it and with unwavering commitment to die in our place as the Lamb of God. Where God provided a ram to spare Isaac, Jesus willingly became our substitute, submitting to the Father's will and taking on the penalty for our sins. Isaac had to be bound before being placed on the altar, but Jesus embraced the cross freely, allowing sinful men to bound Him to the cross on our behalf. Oh dear brothers and sisters, Jesus Christ is the true and better Isaac of whom the Scriptures testify: God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Cor. 5:21). [1] Johnny Cash,A Boy Named Sue,performed by Johnny Cash, written by Shel Silverstein, recorded at San Quentin State Prison, 24 Feb. 1969, released onAt San Quentin,Columbia Records, 1969. [2] Now Sarai, Abrams wife, had not borne him a child, but she had an Egyptian slave woman whose name was Hagar. So Sarai said to Abram, See now, the Lord has prevented me from bearing children. Please have relations with my slave woman; perhaps I will obtain children through her. And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai. (Gen. 16:12)

John 21:15-25 (NASB) 15 Now when they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Tend My lambs.” 16 He said to him again, a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Shepherd My sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” Peter was hurt because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?” And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Tend My sheep. 18 Truly, truly I tell you, when you were younger, you used to put on your belt and walk wherever you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands and someone else will put your belt on you, and bring you where you do not want to go.” 19 Now He said this, indicating by what kind of death he would glorify God. And when He had said this, He said to him, “Follow Me!” 20 Peter turned around and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them—the one who also had leaned back on His chest at the supper and said, “Lord, who is the one who is betraying You?” 21 So Peter, upon seeing him, said to Jesus, “Lord, and what about this man?” 22 Jesus said to him, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!” 23 Therefore this account went out among the brothers, that that disciple would not die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but only, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you?” 24 This is the disciple who is testifying about these things and wrote these things, and we know that his testimony is true. 25 But there are also many other things which Jesus did, which, if they were written in detail, I expect that even the world itself would not contain the books that would be written. I. Fulfill you ministry (15-17) II. Be prepared to suffer (18-19) III. Mind your own business (20-25)  

Weekly Sermon, October 12th, 2025 Colossians 3:4-5 (NASB)

Growing up where I did, not England, France, or Germany, when I think majestic, I think of starry nights, mountain ranges, and most of all beautiful sunrises. So there's no more fitting picture for me than that of the majesty of our God, than just that of a sunrise. Imagine my joy to learn, not only is God:"I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life." John 8:12But He is also:"Because of the tender mercy of our God, With which the Sunrise from on high shall visit us" Luke 1:78Our so what?Imagine the most beautiful sunrise you can ever remember, or the next time you see the sunrise. Drink it in with this in mind, that the King of Glory, Jesus, is the Sunrise from on High. What a glory!"Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen"1 Timothy 1:17Brethren, let's pray for one another. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 147

Our Daily Portion Podcast is a daily podcast to help us stay in God's Word daily.  We follow the Daily Torah Portion schedule utilizing the NASB translation. The scripture is read, a nugget is shared, and prayer closes us out.  Go to pursuitfortruth.com for more information about WIT Ministries.

Unless the Lord has any more surprises for the Free Range Preacher, we should be on track to catch up, for real this time. First-timers and you, patient, faithful listeners, it is my blessing and wonder that you listen. We do pray the King of Glory separates His wheat from my chaff, and His word does not come back void as you listen.Who is this King of Glory? The Lord strong and mighty, trustworthy enough to be our only hope."Out of the depths I have cried to Thee, O LORD. 2 Lord, hear my voice! Let Thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. 3 If Thou, LORD, shouldst mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? 4 But there is forgiveness with Thee, That Thou mayest be feared. 5 I wait for the LORD, my soul does wait, And in His word do I hope. 6 My soul waits for the Lord More than the watchmen for the morning; Indeed, more than the watchmen for the morning. 7 O Israel, hope in the LORD; For with the LORD there is lovingkindness, And with Him is abundant redemption. 8 And He will redeem Israel From all his iniquities."Psalm 130:1-8Our So What?As you replace your name and the names of your beloved in verse 7 for Israel, we find all the fuel we need with which to fuel our hope."Hope in the LORD, for with LORD there is lovingkindness and with Him abundant redemption."17Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen1 Timothy 1:17Brethren, let's pray for one another. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 146

Our Daily Portion Podcast is a daily podcast to help us stay in God's Word daily.  We follow the Daily Torah Portion schedule utilizing the NASB translation. The scripture is read, a nugget is shared, and prayer closes us out.  Go to pursuitfortruth.com for more information about WIT Ministries.

Our Daily Portion Podcast is a daily podcast to help us stay in God's Word daily.  We follow the Daily Torah Portion schedule utilizing the NASB translation. The scripture is read, a nugget is shared, and prayer closes us out.  Go to pursuitfortruth.com for more information about WIT Ministries.

Our Daily Portion Podcast is a daily podcast to help us stay in God's Word daily.  We follow the Daily Torah Portion schedule utilizing the NASB translation. The scripture is read, a nugget is shared, and prayer closes us out.  Go to pursuitfortruth.com for more information about WIT Ministries.

Our words matter. In “Detoxing Words That Poison Your Soul", Pastor Carey Robinson from The Movement Church is visiting! Our words and thoughts carry tremendous power, and we live in a generation where everyone has a microphone but few have filters, which leads to careless speech that damages relationshipsIf you want to contribute to support the ministry of CONVO Church, you can give securely online at http://convochurch.com/give​​​​​Scripture References | ESVProverbs 18, verse 21 (NLV & MSG)Proverbs 27, verse 3 (NASB)Luke 6, verse 452 Corinthians 12, verse 92 Corinthians 5, verse 17James 1, verses 19-20Psalms 141, verse 3CONVO Church is led by Pastors Craig & Cara Dyson. We exist to lead people in becoming passionate Jesus followers bringing the love, grace, and truth of God into everyday convos, influencing every sphere of life. We are here to Inspire Purpose, Encourage Life, and Build Faith in you.

History has consistently shown that being aligned with the correct King makes all the difference. Just ask Gelimer and Martin Luther.David teaches us to install Yahweh Sabboath as our King."But as for Me, I have installed My King Upon Zion, My holy mountain." Psalm 2:6 and"Worship the LORD with reverence, And rejoice with trembling. 12 Do homage to the Son, lest He become angry, and you perish in the way, For His wrath may soon be kindled. How blessed are all who take refuge in Him!" Psalm 2:11Our So What?What are the affects and effects on our worship, confession, thanksgiving, and supplications when we align ourselves with:"Who is the King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, The LORD mighty in battle. 9 Lift up your heads, O gates, And lift them up, O ancient doors, That the King of glory may come in! 10 Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, He is the King of glory. Selah".Psalm 24:8-10Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen1 Timothy 1:17Brethren, let's pray for one another. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'CheyneeM'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 144

On a recent walk, I passed a little girl with her mom (going out and back). The first time, she was a few feet away as I walked between them. The child was apprehensive. On the way back, she was holding her mom's hand. She smiled at me, waved, and even told me a little story. (In Baby talk)Why the difference in demeanor? "For I am the LORD your God, who upholds your right hand, Who says to you, 'Do not fear, I will help you." Isaiah 41:13"The steps of a man are established by the LORD; And He delights in his way. 24 When he falls, he shall not be hurled headlong; Because the LORD is the One who holds his hand." Psalm 37:23-24"The LORD has disciplined me severely, But He has not given me over to death." Psalm 118:8Our So what?We have many fears, but God holds our hands, knowing that His goal for us is to be conformed to the image of His Son. When we are disciplined, what sincere communion flows from us?"Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen"1 Timothy 1:17Brethren, let's pray for one another. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 145

James 1:17-18 (NASB) 17 Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. 18 In the exercise of His will He gave us birth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures. Theme: God, who is the wonderful, wondrous Giver of physical and spiritual life, should receive continuous gratitude from us as His new creations. 1) Who God is >> His Wonderful Character (1:17) 2) What God does >> His Wondrous Works (1:18)

Weekly Sermon, Oct 5th, 2025 1 Corinthians 11:23-34 (NASB)

What a wonderful day, a friend shared a song her band is practicing, and it was a great blessing. We praise God with David in Psalm 34:Center to our praise in God's comfort.My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; The humble shall hear it and rejoice. 3 O magnify the LORD with me, And let us exalt His name together. 4 I sought the LORD, and He answered me, And delivered me from all my fears.Psalm 34:2-4Brethren, let's pray for one another. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 143

Episode 1: The WHATEVER ManWelcome to Forged By Faith!This is an extension of the Forged Father FM podcast, which I started because I want to share my journey with Christ. It's designed to weaponize men with the power of God and the truth of His Word, so they can live with conviction, lead with purpose, and forge a legacy that honors the King.In this first episode, I share the raw truth behind why I started this movement… not as a theologian or Bible scholar, but as a man who once lived as a convenient Christian. After years of drifting, God brought me back to full surrender, and now faith stands as the foundation of everything I build, lead, and live for.This episode breaks down the difference between being a “What If” man… controlled by fear, doubt, and uncertainty VS becoming a “Whatever” man… grounded in faith, fueled by conviction, and strengthened through Christ.Philippians 4:11–13 (NASB) reveals the blueprint:“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”If you're ready to stop living in fear and start walking in full faith, this message is your call to arms.Listen in, rise up, and start living Forged By Faith.For more details on how to get started with us inside Forged Father, go to the link below:theforgedfather.com 

A long life is a blessing. Psalm 128 assures us that we are blessed when we see our children's children.A long life is a double-edged sword as well, for we grow weary of our sins. If you have ever just been tired of yourself, and you're unsure how to express those feelings, Psalm 38 is a lesson in purging our sorrows to the Lord. Just a sample:I am benumbed and badly crushed; I groan because of the agitation of my heart. 9 Lord, all my desire is before Thee; And my sighing is not hidden from Thee. 10 My heart throbs, my strength fails me; And the light of my eyes, even that has gone from me.Psalm 38:8-10By the merciful, promise-keeping God of the impossible, we find comfort in our gain. "As for me, I shall behold Thy face in righteousness; I will be satisfied with Thy likeness when I awake." Psalm 17:15"Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we shall be. We know that, when He appears, we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him just as He is." 1 John 3:2-31 "Many are the sorrows of the wicked; But he who trusts in the LORD, lovingkindness shall surround him. 11 Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous ones, And shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart." Psalm 33:10-11"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; 8 in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing." 2 Timothy 4:7-8Our So What?We often feel like "the chief of sinners." (Present tense.) and at the same time, Paul could say: "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21What a comfort is our gain!Brethren, let's pray for one another. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 141

We begin with the reason my mom and our family need prayers. Thank you for praying.As is fitting for this moment, we look to David to see that God is the God of all comfort. He is our comfort even in our loss. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort; 4 who comforts us in all our affliction so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 5 For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ."2 Corinthians 1:3-5"But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve, as do the rest who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus."1 Thessalonians 4:13-14"But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, "DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP in victory. 55 "O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?" 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; 57 but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord."1 Corinthians 15:54-58Our So What?We take comfort in the fact that we will see all in Christ who have gone ahead. Brethren, let's pray for one another."What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 140

Biblical Talks  It's fascinating how history tends to repeat itself, especially when it's foretold in the Holy Bible. In this episode of Biblical Talks, SD and Lady V discuss Micah 7:1-7, highlighting themes like dishonesty, betrayal, murder, and all kinds of evil — issues that are strikingly present in our society today.   The good news is that there is hope because God loves us deeply and has given us all the ability to act from a place of love. This serves as a call to change — a journey of revelation and redemption. Imagine how much better our world could be if we all embraced this mindset.  With that in mind, have you read Micah 7:1-7?  If so -- what are your thoughts? If not, no worries, we've got you covered. In any case, join us with your Bible or Bible app.  Also, go ahead and use the player at the top of this blog post or subscribe and listen via your preferred podcast platform to follow along.  Then get encouraged by joining SD and Lady V in this Biblical Talk — A Call to Change: Revelation and Redemption.  Scriptures Referenced in Episode Discussion  Micah 1:2, 6:8, and 7:1-7 Matthew 22:36-39 Leviticus 19:18 John 3:16-17 Romans 10:9-10 Numbers 6:24-26  Receive your Free Gift of Salvation – The Gospel of Jesus Christ  Explanation  If you are reading this, it is not by chance. This is your time to receive the Gift of Salvation through Christ Jesus.  Now, you may be wondering, "Why do I need that?" Oh, I'm so glad you asked. The Bible says, that because  Adam ate fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil -- he released sin into the world.  And ultimately, Adam's sin brought death and death spread to everyone.  No doubt, you may be thinking, "Of course, everyone is going to die." But, my question to you is "Where will you spend eternity?" Because there is life after death. In fact, when you die you go to one of two places -- heaven or hell.  Also, it is important to understand that Adam's sin also brought an eternity in hell. But for those who choose not to receive the free gift of eternal life. Thus, you must make that choice before you take your last breath.  Romans 5:17 New Living Translation says,  “For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God's wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ.”  To sum it all up, Romans 6:23 New Living Translation says,  “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.”  So, if you are reading this, don't let another day go by without receiving this life-changing gift.  Scripture   Romans 10:8-10 New Living Translation says,  “8 …“The message is very close at hand; it is on your lips and in your heart.” And that message is the very message about faith that we preach:  9 If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.  10 For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.”  Salvation Prayer  Lord Jesus, I am a sinner, and I am sorry for my sins. I ask You to forgive me. I want to follow You, Jesus. I believe in my heart that God raised You from the dead. By faith, I ask You to be my Lord and Savior. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for your gift of grace and for eternity with You.  Listen to We R S.H.E.Talks Podcast  Use the web player above this blog post to listen or subscribe and listen via your favorite podcast platform.   Bible Study Resources  Holy Bible [NLT, NIV, ESV, NASB, NKJV, KJV]  Bible App by YouVersion  NLT Chronological Life Application Study Bible  Read the Bible Online – Bible Gateway  Read the Bible and Commentaries Online – Bible Hub  Read Living by the Book: The Art and Science of Readin...

Our Daily Portion Podcast is a daily podcast to help us stay in God's Word daily.  We follow the Daily Torah Portion schedule utilizing the NASB translation. The scripture is read, a nugget is shared, and prayer closes us out.  Go to pursuitfortruth.com for more information about WIT Ministries.

Radical Life // Week 3 // The Seeing, The Saying & The SalvationPastors JF & Ashley WilkersonLuke 19:10 NIV 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.Luke 19:1-4 NIV 1 Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. 3 He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd.4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.1. The Seeing - The Radical Way Jesus Embraces People Isaiah 43:1b NASB 1b…”I have called you by name; you are mine.”1. The Seeing - The Radical Way Jesus Embraces People 2. The Saying - The Radical Way Jesus Confronts Injustice Luke 19:5 NIV 5 When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” Luke 19:6-7 NIV 6 So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. 7 All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.”1. The Seeing - The Radical Way Jesus Embraces People 2. The Saying - The Radical Way Jesus Confronts Injustice 3. The Salvation - The Radical Way Jesus Brings Freedom Luke 19:8 NIV 8 But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” Luke 19:9-10 NIV 9 Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”Luke 19:9 NIV 9 Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham.”Psalm 23:6 NIV 6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.1. The Seeing - The Radical Way Jesus Embraces People 2. The Saying - The Radical Way Jesus Confronts Injustice 3. The Salvation - The Radical Way Jesus Brings Freedom

Welcome to the Free Range Preacher on Prayer podcast. APodcast principalPaddock Focusing on Who is this King of glory, as many facets of God as He has revealed Himself, as we can in October.Special thanks to Richard for making me smile again, this last few days, and especially with the intro.Been delayed a little because of two events, one sad, and the other just inconvenient, but we are back and committed to catching up.New or old, thanks for listening., Thank you for listening. Our goal is to have short, contemplative episodes every day in October. If you are new, we receive excellent reviews each October. If you are returning, we hope that once again we are clear, broadening, and deepening our relationship with our Creator, Savior, and Teacher. This year, we are looking at just who the King of glory is and who the Son of man is as well. Important matters, for our redemption and for our community, in the presence of the Holy God of the Universe.Prayer, from our need to salvation to our need of preserverance to our daily needs, you have called us to trust and look to Thee, may our faith grow, as we see you are the God of the impossible. Amen Who can be saved?"Then who can be saved?" 27 Looking upon them, Jesus *said, "With men it is impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God."Mark 10:26b-27Who can be trusted to keep His word?"And the LORD said to Moses, 'Is the LORD'S power limited? Now you shall see whether My word will come true for you or not."Numbers 11:23Who can be trusted to number our days to our good and His glory?"Then the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah, saying, 27 "Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me?"Jeremiah 32:26-27Who is the active creator, savior, and power over all creation. Behold, the LORD'S hand is not so short That it cannot save; Neither is His ear so dull That it cannot hear.Isaiah 59:1Our 'so what' will essentially be the same every day of October. Once we read the verse, we will be encouraged to consider:Is the verse we share new to you?And:.How might you translate or apply this self-revelation of God to our joy, worship, confession, gratitude, and intercession in conversation with Him?What joy, peace, worship, faith come from knowing the God of the Universe is not only on our side, but the God of the impossible who is able accomplish all we entrust to Him. "Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen"1 Timothy 1:17"What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 139

James 1:12-16 (NASB) 12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13 No one is to say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15 Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it has run its course, brings forth death. 16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers and sisters. Theme: To progress in the path to spiritual maturity, Christians must continually overcome temptations of the flesh. Intro – Believe God's Promises for Perseverance (1:12) Body – Helps for You to Overcome Temptations (1:13-15) 1) Know the Source of Temptations (1:13-14) 2) Know the Strength of Temptations (1:14-15) 3) Know the Sequence of Temptations (1:15) Conclusion – Don't be fooled (1:16)

Send us a textThe United States of America and the Western World in general have been engaged in a spiritual cold war for decades now. But Charlie Kirk's martyrdom is a shot heard around the world. Many people have woken up to the reality of spiritual warfare and finally want to engage. The apostle Paul said, "The weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses.2 Corinthians 10:4 NASB. It is high time that the Church learns to use the weapons at our disposal. This week, let's explore the weapon of worship.❤️ SHOW YOUR SUPPORT - LINKS BELOW...➡️ Email me: https://www.karlgessler.com/contact➡️ DONATE ➡️  Join our team!https://www.givesendgo.com/karlgesslerfamilybandhttps://www.patreon.com/karlgesslerhttps://cash.app/$KarlgesslerSocial Media➡️Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089357625739➡️Telegram - https://t.me/FaithoftheFathers➡️Truth Social - https://truthsocial.com/@UCLOvq6O4aIXLrkKxwXkq3uA#Bibleteaching #deliveranceministry #demons #Christianity #DiscipleshipSupport the show

  1:1 And that man was blameless and upright- Job will be described as blameless and upright in 1:1, 8; 2:3. The emphasis in this verse is not on the time Job lived nor where he lived but on his character. “Job's blameless is given precedent over the more external description of Job's family and wealth" (Clines, 9) His character both begins (vs. 1) and ends (vs. 4-5) this section. The word translated blameless is a pivotal word in the book (8:20; 9:20, 21, 22). The same root word appears in 12:4; 36:4; 37:16 and its feminine form appears in 27:5; 31:6. In 9:20 the word blameless (or guiltless in the NASB) is used in parallelism with the word righteous and an antonym for blameless is to declare guilty. In 9:22 blameless or guiltless is the opposite of the wicked. Blameless is not sinless. Job acknowledges “iniquities of my youth” in 13:26; 14:16-17. This root word for blameless is used of Noah (Gen. 6:9), Abraham (Gen. 17:1), and to describe the sacrificial animals in Ex. 12:5; 29:1; Lev. 1:3. In Ps. 19:13 blameless is defined as being kept back from great transgression.1:5 “With such an expression of Job's concern, his own still-future temptation would be foreshadowed" (Clines, 16). The very thing that Job feared his children would do, curse God in their hearts, is what the Satan says that Job will do if his blessings are taken away in 1:11; 2:5. It will also be what his wife encourages him to do in 2:9. The word translated curse is actually the Hebrew term for bless. We know that it means curse because of its connection with the word sinned in 1:5. Why was the term for bless used when curse is its meaning? While we can only speculate on the why it is possible that the thought of cursing God was so abhorrent that the scribes could not bring themselves to write these words and used bless as a euphemism for curse. (Alter, 12). The same phenomena appears where Naboth is accused of blessing (cursing) God and the king in I Kings 21:10, 13; Psalm 10:3. The weakness with this argument however is that there are places in the Old Testament that speak of cursing God and use the word generally rendered curse- Exodus 22:28; Lev. 24:14, 15, 23; Isa. 8:21. Each time the word bless is used we must examine whether it means bless or its opposite. (Seow, 254-255). 

Season Seven, October 2025, October 1: Who is the King of Glory? Breathlessly, Richard introduces us to October Surprise 2025, when we ask, "Who is this King of Glory?" And "Who is this Son of Man?” (Worth a listen for the introduction alone!)"Who is the King of glory? The LORD is strong and mighty, The LORD mighty in battle. 9 Lift up your heads, O gates, And lift them up, O ancient doors, That the King of glory may come in! 10 Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, He is the King of glory. Selah."Psalm 24:8-10"My brethren, do not hold your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism."James 2:1"With it we bless our Lord and Father; and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God."James 3:9"Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord. 6 And there are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons."1 Corinthians 12:4The King of Glory is Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit, as marvelously and mysteriously as that is. Our So What?We contemplate: Who has the King of Glory revealed himself to be Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and:How does that change my conversation with him? Brethren, let's pray for one another. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 136

Richard's intros are always a joy! Three weeks ago, at our Production Meeting, which our wives call our play date, we discussed the introduction, and I didn't receive it from him until September 30. Richard is. Pro!Our goal is to have short, contemplative episodes every day in October, with the end result of broadening and deepening our relationship with our Creator, Savior, and Teacher. Who is the King of glory, and who is the Son of man?One way we find out who the King of Glory is through His names in the BibleToday, Baal-perazim, Lord of the Breakthroughs.David asked, "should I go to war?", God says yes. After the victory, he says:"So David came to Baal-perazim, and defeated them there; and he said, "The LORD has broken through my enemies before me like the breakthrough of waters." "Therefore he named that place Baal-perazim."2 Samuel 5:20Our God is the God who accomplishes breakthroughs in our lives.Our So What?How has God given you breakthroughs in your walk and relationship with Him?How are His breakthroughs affective and effective in our prayer lives, for worship, confession, thanksgiving, and intercession?Brethren, let's pray for one another. "Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen"1 Timothy 1:17"What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 137

Weekly Sermon, Sept 28th, 2025 Colossians 3:1-3 (NASB)

James 1:12-16 (NASB) 12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13 No one is to say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15 Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it has run its course, brings forth death. 16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers and sisters. Theme: To progress in the path to spiritual maturity, Christians must continually overcome temptations of the flesh.  

Matthew Week 111   Genesis 2:18 NASB   18 Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him.”       Merriam Webster: one that helps; especially: a relatively unskilled worker who assists a skilled worker usually by manual labor.   Ex. The carpenter measured the wall while one of his helpers brought in the tools.       Psalm 10:14 CSB   But you yourself have seen trouble and grief,   observing it in order to take the matter into your hands.   The helpless one entrusts himself to you;   you are a helper of the fatherless.       Exodus 18:4 ESV   4 and the name of the other, Eliezer (for he said, “The God of my father was my help, and delivered me from the sword of Pharaoh”)       Deuteronomy 33:29 NASB   “Blessed are you, Israel; Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD, The shield of your help, And He who is the sword of your majesty! So your enemies will cringe before you, And you will trample on their high places.”       Matthew 19:10-12 ESV   10 The disciples said to him, “If such is the case of a man with his wife, it is better not to marry.” 11 But he said to them, “Not everyone can receive this saying, but only those to whom it is given. 12 For there are eunuchs who have been so from birth, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Let the one who is able to receive this receive it.”

Weekly Sermon, Sept 21st, 2025 Colossians 2:11-23 (NASB)

Jesus meets a woman at a well; this event gets right to the point. Our lives are much more than what we see physically, and the real existential threat is not to our earthly lives, but to our eternal souls. So critical is this truth that Jesus brings up what the woman would not say. "Go, call your husband, and come here." What unfolded next led the woman to the spiritual. "The woman *said to Him, "Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet." Verse 19 of John 4. The point of this conversation:"Jesus *said to her, "Woman, believe Me, an hour is coming when neither in this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, shall you worship the Father. 22 "You worship that which you do not know; we worship that which we know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23 "But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. 24 "God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." John 4:17-20Our So What?Praying for the physical is part of the call we have, but as we mature in our communion with Almighty God, our concerns will move our focus from the physical to the spiritual."What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Or go to www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 InstagramSeason 007Episode 075

Psalm 139:12 (NASB) says, " -but even in the darkness I cannot hide from you. To you, the night shines as bright as the day. Darkness and light are the same to you."When we feel alone in our darkest moments, it can be easy to forget that God is with you always, that He made you perfect and special — right down to the very thoughts you think.This week on our "The Word Speaks" series, Jenn Jett is back with Susan to dig into their shared favorite scripture - Psalm 139.

The second tool you need to be God-confident is to know how God sees you. God wants you to be confident in how he has gifted you and how he wants to use you. Let's begin by affirming what God has said about us: For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well (Psalm 139:13-14). I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand (John 10:28). Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror and said, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made”? Or “I am safe in the hand of Jesus—no one can snatch me out of his hand”? As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love (John 15:9). Have you ever declared: “I am the one Jesus loves”? God-confidence depends on being totally confident of who you are in Christ. But it doesn't come in one swoop—it comes through getting to know God better and better. You have been gifted to do something good for the Kingdom. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them (Ephesians 2:10 NASB). When you're willing to take the next steps where God is leading you, to do those good works he prepared for you, then you can be confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6). That is God-confidence!

804 A Demon Cannon Cause The Blind to See, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 10:19-21 with the Recenter With Christ app The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in  and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.  Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.  You can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tense or unrelaxing.  If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.   Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:   Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate,  deflate. Scripture for Meditation NET 19 Another sharp division took place among the Jewish people because of these words. 20 Many of them were saying, “He is possessed by a demon and has lost his mind! Why do you listen to him?” 21 Others said, “These are not the words of someone possessed by a demon. A demon cannot cause the blind to see, can it?” NASB 19 Dissension occurred again among the Jews because of these words. 20 Many of them were saying, “He has a demon and is insane. Why do you listen to Him?” 21 Others were saying, “These are not the words of one who is demon-possessed. A demon cannot open the eyes of those who are blind, can it?” Reflection on Scripture: When Jesus made audacious claims about his role and about his power, he was accused of being possessed by a demon. This was meant to be an accusation that would make his comments illegitimate. This was an attack on his divinity by accusing him of being part of the opposition. This was among the most extreme inaccuracies in the history of inaccuracies, to accuse God of being possessed by the Devil. This is not just a claim that was meant to be over the top, it was meant to discredit the true works of Jesus Christ. The logical and principled teachings of Jesus were compared to the confused evil theological ramblings of a demon.  Another thing that makes this so impactful is because evil does exist. Each of us must grapple with forces of evil acting in the world. We encounter ideas inspired by evil in public discourse and societal perspectives. It would be unsafe to assume that evil is metaphoric or that the devil doesn't really exist. It is oft repeated that the Devil tries to convince us he does not exist. But he does exist. Just as God inspires our minds with the still small voice of His spirit of peace, the enemy will whisper words of destruction, self hatred, temptation to sin and many other evil whisperings. The chatter of your mind that discourages you does not come from God. With that said it is not necessary we live in fear of that. It is a reality of the world that Satan has existed the whole time, even in moments when we feel the peace of God the devil has existed. When we feel the joys of love of family, or the joy in Grace, the feeling of victory in the Lord, the devil existed then too. When Jesus healed and performed miracles, the devil existed then too. We cannot turn down the level of the darkness, but we can look to the light and the darkness will vanish. The whisperings of the evil one are always a lie, just as they were in this scripture. Jesus is the source of true light and will always win in the long run. If we turn to the light, the darkness must flee and eventually be destroyed. Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life: This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?  FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod