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Daily Dose of Hope May 27, 2026   Name of God:  Jehovah Sabaoth – The Lord of Hosts Scripture:  1 Samuel 1:11, 17:45, Psalm 24:9-10, 80:4, 19, Isaiah 6:5   Prayer:  Jehovah Sabaoth, Mighty Lord of Hosts, Please place a hedge of protection around me, my family, and my home. Dismantle the schemes of the enemy and let no weapon formed against me prosper. Grant me the courage to stand firm in my faith, knowing that Your heavenly forces are greater than any challenge I face.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  Today is the last day in our reading plan covering the names of God in the Old Testament.  I have found this to be a fascinating study.  There are so many different aspects to God's character and we've gotten a glimpse into that by going deeper into the divine names.  I would love to hear your feedback.   Just an order of business:  You will have the rest of this week to study on your own and then on June 1, we will start our next reading plan, 1 & 2 Kings.    Today, we are focusing on the name Jehovah Sabaoth, which means the Lord of Hosts.  We are familiar with the word Jehovah, or Lord.  The word Sabaoth has several different meanings, all with a military connotation: ·       A group of fighting men or an army (1 Samuel 17:45; Isaiah 13:4). ·       Sometimes sabaoth refers to the hosts of heaven (Psalm 148:2; 1 Kings 22:19), picturing God as Lord of the multitudes of angels, which are numbered as "a thousand thousands" and "ten thousand times ten thousand" (Daniel 7:10). ·       Sabaoth also is used to describe the innumerable stars in the night sky (Psalm 33:6; 103:20, 21). The important thing about this name is that whether it refers to armies, angels, or stars, Jehovah Sabaoth, the Lord of Hosts, rules over all things both on earth and in heaven.  Jehovah Sabaoth is the commander of the armies of heaven. The Lord is in charge and He and His angel armies are fighting on our behalf.   The first mention of Jehovah Sabaoth is in 1 Samuel 1:3, when Elkanah, the father of Samuel, goes to worship "the Lord of Hosts" in Shiloh. Later, in 1 Samuel 17:45, David boldly declares to Goliath, You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts. David wasn't trusting in his strength—he knew Jehovah Sabaoth was with him.   This name appears over 270 times in the Bible, often during times of war and struggle. When Israel faced powerful enemies, prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah reminded them that the Lord of Hosts was their protector. Jehovah Sabaoth is the God who fights for His people.  Jehovah Sabaoth goes to battle for us, YOU and ME, when our backs are against the wall – when we are overwhelmed, when we are outnumbered, or when we are oppressed.  Keep in mind this does not just refer to physical battles but spiritual battles.    I will close today with Ephesians 6:12, For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Daily Dose of Hope May 22, 2026   Name of God: Jehovah Shammah – The Lord Is There Scripture:  Ezekiel 48   Prayer:  Jehovah-Shammah, thank you for being the One who goes with me. Thank you for the hope I have that you will not fail or forsake me. Thank you for the strength I find in your presence today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently on a reading plan covering the names of God in the Old Testament.  As we have talked about, names held huge significance in the ancient world.  They reflected identity, purpose, and character.  It was the same for God's names.  Each name really reflects a different aspect of God's character.  We will discuss sixteen names of God and today is our thirteenth.  Just to remind you, on June 1, we will start our next reading plan, 1 & 2 Kings.   Today's name for God is Jehovah Shammah, which means the Lord is There.  As we know, Jehovah means God.  Shammah means there, as in a specific location. The root of Shammah is similar to the root of the Hebrew word for tabernacle, dwell, abide. Jehovah Shammah is the name of God that promises His presence   In the Old Testament, the Temple was built as a place for God to dwell. But the Israelites were deep into worshipping other gods and oppressing the poor.  They broke covenant with God many times.  And God, in his grace, gave them numerous opportunities to repent from their rebellion, but they stubbornly refused. Thus, God withdrew His presence not only from the temple, but also from the city of Jerusalem. God lifted his hand of protection.  He allowed his people to be taken into exile and he allowed the city to be destroyed.   But God also promised the nation would be restored and His presence would return to Jerusalem.  We can see this in Ezekiel's prophecy in our reading today.  God is planning for when He will return to Jerusalem.  Ezekiel 48:35, The distance around the entire city will be 6 miles. And from that day the name of the city will be 'The Lord is There.  Jehovah-Shammah is the name of God that means I am the Lord who is there and is symbolic of Jerusalem. This name promises His presence. God wants us to experience His presence every moment of every day.   Prophesy was fulfilled when God's presence returned to the temple.  But we know, sitting on the other side of the cross, that God's presence became fully realized in the person of Jesus.  God's presence was restored to Jerusalem in the form of a tiny baby brought to the temple to be offered back to God by his parents, Joseph and Mary.  How extraordinary!    So a quick review:  God's presence went from being in the Temple to being found in the person of Jesus. Then, after Pentecost, God's presence was to be found in the Holy Spirit.  God's presence was poured out on all believers!   And that is where we are now.  Through the power of the Holy Spirit, God's presence is actually found in us.  The same power that raised Jesus from the dead resides in us.  Jehovah Shammah.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki            

Daily Dose of Hope May 21, 2026   Name of God: Jehovah Tsidkenu – The Lord Our Righteousness Scripture: Jeremiah 23:6, 33:16, 1 Corinthians 1:30, 2 Corinthians 5:21   Prayer:  Jehovah Tsidkenu, You are my righteousness. I know I could never earn Your love, yet You have freely given it to me. Thank You for covering me in Christ's righteousness and making me new. Help me to walk in confidence, knowing that I am fully accepted by You. In Jesus' name, Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently on a reading plan covering the names of God in the Old Testament.  Today, we are covering our twelfth name of God out of sixteen, so we really only have a few more.  On June 1, we will start a new reading plan on 1 and 2 Kings.  Hope you will stay with us!   Today's name of God on which we are focusing is Jehovah Tsidkenu, which means the Lord is our Righteousness.    We see this name in the book of Jeremiah.  The southern kingdom of Judah was in decline and moving closer to exile when the prophet Jeremiah spoke these words in Jeremiah 23:6, 'The days are coming' when the Lord will raise up for David a 'righteous branch'. He will reign as king; ruling wisely, accomplishing justice and righteousness in the land. In the days of this king Judah will be saved and Israel will dwell securely. They will know this king as 'The Lord is our righteousness' [Jehovah Tsidkenu].  In the middle of great despair and darkness there was a promise of hope and light for the nation.  We know that hope to be Jesus Christ, the promised messiah.   The prophecy of Jeremiah aligned with God's promise to David in 2 Samuel 7 that he would establish his throne forever. The coming king, from David's line, would be 'a righteous branch'. Righteousness would be the chief characteristic of this coming kingdom but this would not come from the citizens themselves.    Let's talk a bit about righteousness. First, righteousness is an attribute of God. God always does what is right, just, proper, and consistent with all His other attributes. When we say that God is righteous, that means that there is no wrong, dishonesty, or unfairness in Him. He is the perfectly righteous one and his righteousness is an everlasting righteousness.    While humans seek to be righteous, there has never been a human being that could live up to God's righteousness at all.  Think of Abraham, Moses, David, Peter, and Paul.  They were all Godly men who followed God closely, but they messed up.  They were sinful and the Bible doesn't hide that.  But God is always pure, always righteous.  And Jesus, because he was God, was the only human who exhibited perfect righteousness.  He was the only righteous king.    Because we are sinful and broken, Jesus offers us his righteousness.  If we believe in Jesus as Savior and repent of our sins, then Scripture says he "imputes" his righteousness onto us.  Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:21, God made him who had no sin to be sin[ for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.  Because of Jesus, we can receive his righteousness and be fully accepted by God.   What does this mean for us today, right now?  Many of us struggle with guilt, shame, or the pressure to "be better." But Jehovah Tsidkenu is our righteousness.  If we know Jesus, then we don't have to worry about our past flaws and failures, nor do we need to try to be "good" in our own strength. Jesus took our sin so that we could stand blameless before God.  This means you don't have to live in fear of not measuring up. You are already loved, already forgiven, and already made new in Christ. Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

Daily Dose of Hope May 20, 2026   Name of God:  Jehovah Shalom – The Lord Is Peace Scripture:  Judges 6:11-24   Prayer:  I come before you today, laying down my anxieties, my fears, and the heavy burdens of the day. Lord, you know the exact situations and unseen battles that are causing turmoil in my heart. Right now, I invite Your presence into my mind, my body, and my home. Forgive me for the times I have allowed the noise and chaos of this world to distract me from Your unwavering faithfulness. I ask that You quiet my spirit and replace my restless thoughts with the perfect peace that passes all human understanding. Guard my heart and mind. Remind me that you are in control and help me to surrender my need to figure everything out on my own. In Jesus' Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently in a study on the names of God in the Old Testament.  Remember, names held a great deal of significance in the ancient world, indicating aspects of someone's identity, character, and purpose.  Certainly, it is the same with God.  God has many different names, all of which demonstrate one aspect of His character.  Today, we are focusing on Jehovah Shalom, which means the Lord is Peace.   The title Jehovah Shalom occurs only once in the Bible, in Judges 6.24, Then Gideon built an altar there to the Lord and called it, The Lord Is Peace [Jehovah Shalom].   As we know, the name Jehovah means God or Lord, while the term shalom refers to soundness, completeness, harmony and the absence of strife. It is best described by our English word, peace.   Judges is such a hard book to read.  The boundaries and guardrails that God put in place were ignored and things were violent and chaotic.  The time of the Judges was a 350 year period in Isreal's history when people did what was right in their own eyes.  That never works out well.  We are too selfish.  Our inner compass fails us.  We need direction, specifically God's direction.    During this time, God's people were worshiping other gods and sinning against the Lord and other people.  When things got really, really bad, God would lift his hand of protection and the people would be conquered by a foreign power.  That foreign power would oppress Israel and make things absolutely unbearable.  Then, the Jewish people would cry out to the Lord and He would send a judge.  The purpose of the judge was to save the people and defeat the foreign power.  Once the foreign power was defeated, Israel had peace.  They remembered God.  And this lasted as long as the judge was alive, but after the judge died, the whole cycle began again.  At this particular juncture, Israel was oppressed by the Midianites, who left them hiding in caves, without food, livestock, or working tools. Hungry and terrified, they cried out to God for help. He reminded them that their disobedience caused their troubles, but He also sent them a judge, Gideon. Although the Lord commissioned Gideon to save Israel, he felt weak and incapable. Because of his lack of confidence and fear, Gideon asked for a sign. Witnessing the food he prepared for the angel miraculously consumed by fire, Gideon was filled with even greater fear.  He had seen the Angel of the Lord face to face!  The immediate divine response was this, Peace be to you. Do not fear, you shall not die. As a result of these words, Gideon's heart was filled with confidence and courage. He experienced peace in the truest sense. Building an altar to the Lord, he called it Jehovah Shalom or the Lord is Peace. His encounter with the God of Peace had taught him that he was not alone. We live in a world in which peace is often elusive.  There is war, conflict, and division.  We are plagued by depression, grief, anger, or anxiety.  We are all Gideon hiding from the Midianites.  The truth is that the only way to experience true peace is through God.  Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, offers us a peace that passes understanding.  Even in the midst of the most difficult of circumstances, we can experience an inner peace that defies worldly explanation.  Jesus' presence = peace.  Spend some time praying to Jehovah Shalom today.  Where are you lacking confidence?  Where do you need peace? Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope May 19, 2026   Name of God:  Jehovah Nissi – The Lord Is My Banner Scripture:  Exodus 17:8-16, Isaiah 11:10-12, Psalm 20:5-7, John 12:32   Prayer:  Holy God, I come before You today acknowledging You as Jehovah Nissi, the Lord my Banner. When the battles of life surround me and the enemy's tactics seem overwhelming, I do not have to fight in my own strength. I look to You as my defender and my source of strength.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently in a study on the names of God in the Old Testament.  As we have mentioned, in the ancient world, names held a great deal of significance, indicating aspects of someone's character and purpose.  Certainly, it is the same with God.  God has many different names, all of which demonstrate one aspect of His character.  Today, we are focusing on Jehovah Nissi.   Jehovah Nissi (or more accurately YHWH Nissi) means the Lord is my Banner.  Nissi comes from the Hebrew word Nes (nês), meaning something lifted up as a standard or banner.  A standard is a flag or rallying point during battle, while a banner was usually set on top of a mountain to show people where to assemble and it flew over the warriors as they fought.   In Exodus 17:8-16, we find an excellent portrayal of Jehovah Nissi fighting for His people; it's also the only place in Scripture specifically referencing the name Jehovah Nissi. The Amalekites, an enemy of Israel, came to fight at Rephidim. Joshua gathered some men while Moses stood on top of the hill with the Lord's staff along with his brother, Aaron, and friend, Hur. Moses held the staff over the men fighting below. "While Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed, but whenever he put his hand down, Amalek prevailed."  So Aaron and Hur helped by supporting Moses' arms so the staff wouldn't lower, and Joshua and his men defeated the Amalekites.   In Exodus 17:15-16, Scripture reads, "And Moses built an altar and named it, The Lord Is My Banner." He said, "Indeed, my hand is lifted up toward the Lord's throne." Moses knew that God was the one who ensured their victory and he wanted to make sure everyone else did too. Jehovah Nissi was the source of this victory, while using Moses, Joshua, Aaron, Hur and the staff. Elsewhere in the Bible His "banner" is an illustration of His protection and salvation.  Just as banners and flags today identify nations and groups and those who belong to them, God's banner identifies those who belong to Him.  Here are a few illustrations: Psalm 60:4, "You have raised a banner to . . . save us and help us with your right hand, that those you love may be delivered." Psalm 20:5 "We will rejoice in your salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners!" Isaiah 11:10,12, Speaking of the Messiah who was to come, Isaiah prophesied, "In that day there shall be a Root of Jesse, who shall stand as a banner to the people...He will set up a banner for the nations."   What significance does this divine name, Jehovah Nissi, have for Christ-followers?  First, it points to how God does not leave us to fight our battles in our own strength.  I'm often praying to God to fight my battles for me, because so often, we simply have no control.  But God does.  Second, I think we learn to remember and celebrate the way God has led us and the victories He has provided. Moses built an altar.  I don't think we need to build something physical but we do need to remember what God has done for us.  Remembering God's faithfulness in the past builds our own faith and trust in the present. Take a moment and pray to Jehovah Nissi.  What battles do you need God to fight for you right now?  What battles has He fought for you the past?  Have you celebrated those victories? Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

Daily Dose of Hope May 18, 2026   Name of God: Jehovah Rapha – The Lord Who Heals, Scripture: Exodus 15:26, Psalm 103:2-3, 147:3, Jeremiah 30:17, Isaiah 53:5, Matthew 8:16-17   Prayer:  Jehovah Rapha, You are my Healer. I bring before You my pain, my fears, and my brokenness. Touch every part of me that needs restoration—my body, my mind, and my spirit. Fill me with Your peace, strength, and hope. I trust in Your promise to heal and restore me, today and always. Amen   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope!  Happy Monday!  The Daily Dose is the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We have been walking through the Old Testament names of God.  I don't know about you, but I have been finding this really fascinating.  We learn so much from the divine names, as they each illustrate some aspect of God's character.   The name we are discussing today is Jehovah Rapha.  Jehovah, which we discussed last week, can be translated in English as Lord. Rapha means to heal, to make complete or to make whole. The two combined together means, the God who heals. God is the Great Physician, and He can heal emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. He may not bring healing in the way that is expected but will always bring healing in the way that is needed.  The Hebrew word rapha shows up 67 times throughout the Old Testament.   We see this in our first Scripture for today.  Exodus 15:26 says, If you listen carefully to the Lord your God and do what is right in His eyes, if you pay attention to His commands and keep all His decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am [Jehovah Rapha], the Lord who heals you. The Israelites were thirsty and were grumbling to Moses.  The water was bitter.  So, God told Moses to throw a specific piece of wood in the water to make it fit to drink.  And he did.  God revealed to His people that He is the One who will protect them and heal them if they would their trust in Him and obey.    As you follow the idea of rapha throughout the Old Testament, you see three distinct areas God healed: Physical (see Genesis 20:17; 2 Kings 20:8; Psalm 103:2-5; Jeremiah 30:17) Emotional (see Psalm 147:3) Spiritual (see Psalm 41:4; Jeremiah 3:22) If you take a look at the rest of today's Scripture reading, see if you can identify what kind of healing God is doing.  All of this healing, however, was leading up to the point where that same God, Jehovah Rapha, took on flesh and demonstrated His great love for His people.  In Jesus, we find a God who loves to heal.  Think about the words of the prophet Isaiah, in talking about the coming Messiah, he said this: But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and by his stripes we are healed (Isaiah 53:5). The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor; He has sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound … (Isaiah 61:1). And Jesus did just that, didn't he?  He walked closely with the poor, he healed the sick and lame, he healed hearts, and he provided freedom.  Jesus was Jehovah Rapha.  What kind of healing do you need today?  Spend some time and pray to the Lord who heals, Jehovah Rapha.  Cry out to Him by name and ask for whatever you need. Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

Daily Dose of Hope May 15, 2026   Name of God:  Jehovah Jireh – The Lord Will Provide Scripture:  Genesis 22:8, Romans 8:32, Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:25-34   Prayer:  Lord, You are Jehovah Jireh, my Provider. I come to You in Jesus' name, acknowledging that You know every need I have today, even before I ask.  Jehovah Jireh, I confess that I sometimes fear when I cannot see the way, but I choose to trust in Your faithfulness. I ask that You provide for me—not just for my wants, but for all my needs, according to Your glorious riches. Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently walking through the names of God in the Old Testament.  Remember, names in the ancient world held much significance, indicating both character traits and purpose.  The same was true for God's names.  Each divine name gives us a glimpse at an aspect of God's character. Today's divine name is Jehovah Jireh.  In Hebrew, the word Jireh means to see or to provide.  Jehovah means YHWH in English.  Thus, Jehovah Jireh is the God who provides.  But this isn't a passive providing.  Jehovah Jireh is active, He sees and acts, all in the right timing. We see this in our first Scripture for today, Genesis 22:8.  Abraham was about to sacrifice his son in obedience to God, but God steps in and provides a ram caught in a thicket.  Thus, Abraham names that place YHWH Jireh (Jehovah Jireh), saying "On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided."    In Matthew 6 (the Sermon of the Mount), Jesus tells us not to worry.  He mentions how Jehovah Jireh provides for the birds of the air.  "Are you not much more valuable than they?" God is a God who provides for his creation, including us.  Sometimes, God doesn't give us what we think we need.  But He provides us with His presence, His love, and His strength.  Please know that whatever challenge and hardship you are facing, Jehovah Jireh sees you and is actively working to provide for you in ways you might not be able to see.  He will provide, in His way, in His time.  The question is – can we trust Him to do it? Blessings, Pastor Vicki        

Daily Dose of Hope May 14, 2026   Name of God:  Adonai – The Lord and Master Scripture:  Genesis 15:2, Exodus 4:10-12, Psalm 8:9, Isaiah 6:1, Daniel 9:3, Joshua 5:14   Prayer:  Adonai, Lord of my life, I turn to You before the demands of the day take over. Guide my steps, break the chains of anxiety, and lead me in Your truth. Shelter me in the shadow of Your wings and be my strength when I am weak. You are my faithful King and Keeper of my soul.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently walking through the names of God in the Old Testament.  Remember, names in the ancient world held much significance, indicating both character traits and purpose.  The same was true for God's names.  Each divine name gives us a glimpse at an aspect of God's character.   Today, we are focusing on El Adonai.  Adonai is a Hebrew word that translates into English as Lord or Master or Owner.  The term was actually used in the Old Testament when addressing humans who were master or lord over them.  David calls Saul "my lord the king" in 1 Samuel, referring to King Saul there as his adonai. The Philistines are said to have five lords (adonai) in Judges 3. And Sarah refers to her husband Abraham as her adonai in Genesis 18.     But God is also called Adonai.  It is considered the highest title used by God's people in the Old Testament. Devout Jews would often use Adonai instead of YHWH as a sign of respect and reverence. Adonai is used more than four hundred times in the Old Testament.   God is our Lord and Master.  He has all power and authority.  He rules and has absolute sovereignty over creation.    In Genesis 15, Abram refers to God as Adonai, Master and Lord, when he states that he has no heir.  Moses calls God Adonai, Master and Lord, when he complains that he wasn't eloquent enough to address the people.  God's response is actually somewhat humorous.  He basically says, "But I'm the creator.  I'm the one who created the mouths on human beings.  I will give you what you need to say."  Adonai illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over everything and everyone.   How might this name be meaningful for us?  ·      God is our Master.  God created us so that we will need him as Lord and Master.  There is a God-sized hole in each of us.  We will keep seeking purpose until we find our purpose in Him. ·      God is a good Master.  Unlike some of the things we serve in this world, God is a good, kind, loving Master.  ·      Jesus served God as Master.  Jesus acknowledged God as Adonai.  It is because Jesus knew God as Lord and Master that he submitted to death on a cross.  He yielded His will to the Father.  He also showed his disciples what it looks like to be totally surrendered to God as Adonai.    We don't like to think of having a Master.  It might feel restrictive.  It would be if our Master were anyone else but God.  But Adonai is the one we can trust.  It's into His hands that we place our lives.  In fact, there are no better hands in which to place our lives.  He is Lord over everything and over us.  That brings me a great deal of comfort.  What about you?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Daily Dose of Hope May 13, 2026   Name of God: Qanna – Jealous Scripture: Exodus 34:14, Deuteronomy 4:24, 5:9, 6:15   Prayer:  El Qanna, You are a jealous God who loves me completely. Forgive me for the times I have placed other things before You. Help me to love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Thank You for pursuing me with Your perfect love. In Jesus' name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently in a study on the names of God in the Old Testament.  Each divine name illustrates a particular aspect of God's character and being.  The more we learn about God's names, the more we learn about God's character.   Today, we are focusing on El Qanna, which means Jealous God.  This is used five times in Scripture, all in the first few books of the Old Testament.  We may often misunderstand this name of God, because we see jealousy in its negative state, as it typically is seen as a sin in our fallen world.  But when we consider that God is a jealous God, we have to remember that all things belong to God and there is nothing that is not already his.  That means his desire for something is not rooted in covetousness, but rather the desire for relationship.  The God of the whole universe desires a relationship with His creation and is jealous for them.    It might be helpful to consider the covenant that God made with his people through Moses.  On Mt. Sinai, God didn't just give the Law to His people, he created a deep, abiding covenant, or contract, with His people.  The people had agreed to adhere to the terms of the covenant.  In some ways, it was like they were married to the Lord.  They were to be faithful to the Lord.  And when they were not, God became angry.  They weren't living up to their end of the covenant.    If you think about jealousy in the terms of a marriage relationship, it makes a bit more sense.  If you saw your spouse flirting with someone else, you wouldn't just shrug and say, "Whatever." You'd feel a protective instinct, a righteous anger at the threat that that person could be about to damage something sacred. Your reaction would not be selfishness; it would be devotion.  It's an appropriate passion for an exclusive covenant love.   We are to have no other gods before us because to do so would be to break the terms of our marriage covenant with God.  As Creator, Provider, and Deliverer, he deserves to be worshiped and loved with everything we have.  He loves us with a perfect love.  When we cheat on Him, God as a totally Holy God deserves to be jealous.  His jealousy comes from the truth that He loves us so much.  He wants relationship with us.   We often picture God as distant, calmly observing us from afar.  But El Qanna reveals something different.  God cares intensely about His relationship with you.  It's not a casual thing to Him. You matter profoundly to the God who made you. God's jealousy means you're worth fighting for. You're the beloved He pursues with holy passion. And when you drift toward things that will harm you, He doesn't just shrug and say, "whatever."  He fights for your heart and does everything He can to bring you back to Him.   In all of the verses this name is used, the Scripture is referring to idolatry.  You should have no idols before me.  Of course, worship of idols could be prostrating oneself before a pillar or metal statue.  In our world, it's more likely to be putting something else before God, like a relationship, our job, our money, an addiction, etc.  What kinds of things do you put before God?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki        

Daily Dose of Hope May 12, 2026   Name of God: El Olam – The Everlasting God Scripture: Genesis 21:33: Isaiah 40:28, 26:4, Jeremiah 10:10, Psalm 90:1-2   Prayer:  El Olam, Thank You that You are the God of eternity. When my heart fears change, remind me that Your love never ends. When I grow tired, lift me into Your everlasting strength. Anchor my life in Your promises and help me live today in light of eternity. Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently in a study on the names of God in the Old Testament.  Names in ancient times were very significant and the various names of God are incredibly significant.  Each divine name illustrates a particular aspect of God's character and being.  The more we learn about God's names, the more we learn about God's character.   The name of God that we are focusing on today is El Olam.  The Hebrew word Olam means eternity, forever, everlasting, unending. Thus, when the Scripture speaks of God as El Olam, it is referring to him as the Everlasting God.  It is reminding us that God stands outside of time. He is not bound by beginnings or endings, by clocks or calendars. He is the God who was, who is, and who is to come.  For us, who live in a world where things are temporary with many changes, El Olam is like an anchor.  He is the one who never changes, whose promises are sure and strong throughout all time, and whose love is eternal.   In Genesis 21:33, Abraham called on the name of the Lord, the Everlasting God (El Olam), after planting a tree in Beersheba as a reminder of God's enduring covenant.  In Isaiah 40, some of my very favorite Scripture, the prophet calls God the everlasting one.  He is the one who does not grow tired and weary, and He is the one who no one can comprehend. In Psalm 90, we read that God was everlasting to everlasting before even the earth was created.  When Scripture uses Olam, it's not just talking about "a very long time." It is talking about foreverness — there is absolutely no end.  That is hard for us to wrap our brains around! What does that mean for us? Olam means God's mercy never runs out. Olam means His Word is eternally true. Olam means His kingdom cannot be shaken. For believers, Olam is not just about God's eternal nature. It is also about the eternal life He offers us in Jesus. Our lives don't end when our earthly bodies die.  Our life is woven into God's eternal plan. His promises don't have an expiration date and  His love never grows old.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope May 11, 2026   Name of God: El Elyon – The Most High God Scripture: Genesis 14:18-20, Psalm 7:17, 52:2, 78:35, Daniel 4   Prayer:  Exalted El Elyon, we worship you as One who has the final say. When You speak, demons tremble and the earth quakes. Your voice drowns out and silences every other voice that is raised.  You are the final authority for all things, for all time. What You say is so. You say what You mean and You mean what You say. Your word is fixed. It stands firm in the heavens. We can and we will take you at your Word.  Thank you, El Elyon. Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently in a study on the names of God in the Old Testament.  As we have mentioned, in the ancient world, names held a great deal of significance, indicating aspects of someone's character and purpose.  Certainly, it is the same with God.  God has many different names, all of which demonstrate one aspect of His character.    Today, we are discussing El Elyon, which means most high God.  The Hebrew, Elyon, occurs thirty-one times in the Old Testament. The equivalent Aramaic word, Hilay, occurs ten times, all in the book of Daniel.   El Elyon is how God refers to himself after Abram rescues his nephew Lot from the pagan kings who have taken him from Sodom.  Abram ends up pledging allegiance to El Elyon, most high God, and refusing to take any spoils of war.    By now, we have learned that the word El is Hebrew for God.  Elyon is Most High.  El Elyon indicated that God is not just mighty, but Almighty. He is sovereign over all things and can control all things. This name for God also takes into account God's transcendence. When we say that the God of the Bible is transcendent, we mean that He is high and lifted up far above our human comprehension.  God exists above, independent of, and surpasses the limits of any kind of material creation, time, or human comprehension.  El Elyon is the supernatural Creator, who is separate and above all His creation.  Thus, it goes without saying that no idol, god, or created being should be worshiped or exalted over the Lord because He is superior in every way.   We find this name of God in the Psalms quite a bit.  Here are just a few examples:   ·      Psalm 7:17, I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High (El Elyon). ·      Psalm 21:7, For the king trusts in the LORD; through the unfailing love of the Most High (El Elyon) he will not be shaken. ·      Psalm 46:4, There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High (El Elyon) dwells. ·      Psalm 47:2, How awesome is the Lord Most High (El Elyon), the great King over all the earth! ·      Psalm 57:2, I cry out to God Most High (El Elyon), to God, who fulfills his purpose for me.   Though we live on the other side of the cross, this name still holds significant meaning for us.  Nothing can hold importance above God in our hearts. He must be the God Most High over anything we may put before him. The gods of this age aren't metal statues. It's not that simple. Our gods come in the form of finances, jobs, family, or success. Is El Elyon above everything else in your life?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

What Does It Mean to Pass Your Faith On to the Next Generation?   Pastor Julie Hamilton opens the Legacy Series with a question that's both personal and urgent: Are we just living in the present — enjoying what God is doing right now — or are we intentionally preparing for what comes next? Using Psalm 78:1–7, she frames the church as an extended family, walks through the different roles that make a healthy family function, and introduces the concept of the maintainer — someone who invests in the health, stability, and future of the family by preserving its values and preparing others to carry them forward. The challenge isn't for a specific age group. A 28-year-old can spiritually grandparent a 6-year-old. A 16-year-old can mentor a 45-year-old new believer. In the family of God, roles are determined by stage, not age. She closes with a personal story — a job description she wrote as a new mom over twenty years ago, and the very different one she wrote recently — and a direct challenge for every listener: write your job description in the family of God. Not a title. Your function. Your contribution. Because faith was never meant to stop with you. This is Week 1 of the Legacy Series at New Hope Church. Keywords Psalm 78:1-7 spiritual parenting legacy faith mentoring next generation maintaining the church stage not age Julie Hamilton New Hope Church family of God discipleship Christian identity  

This sermon was delivered by Pastor Cory Klein at New Hope Church of Oxford on May 10, 2026. The text of Scripture is John 1:29-34.

Daily Dose of Hope May 8, 2026   Name of God: El Shaddai – Lord God Almighty Scripture: Genesis 17:1-2, 28:3, 35:11, 43:14, 49:25, Psalm 91:1   Prayer: El Shaddai, God Almighty, I come before you today, recognizing that you are the Lord of more than enough. When I am weak, I lean on your strength. When I feel like I have nothing, I trust in your amazing abundance.  Lord, I bring my impossibilities to you, knowing that nothing is too hard for you; you make a way in the most difficult of situations. Break through my doubt and fear and fill me with your perfect peace that surpasses all understanding.  I thank You for being my provider, my protector, and my refuge. In the powerful name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently in a study on the names of God in the Old Testament.  As we have mentioned, in the ancient world, names held a great deal of significance, indicating aspects of someone's character and purpose.  Certainly, it is the same with God.  God has many different names, all of which demonstrate one aspect of His character.  Today, we are focusing on El Shaddai.  This name for God is found seven times in the Old Testament.   In our Genesis Scripture today, God introduces himself to Abram as El Shaddai.  God personally met with Abraham and brought him a new revelation of himself.  He is El Shaddai.  Our translations use the English name God Almighty for the Hebrew El Shaddai.  El Shaddai goes on to tell Abraham he would be the father of a many nations and that Sarah would bear a son.  God changed both of their names, promised them a certain piece of land, then commanded a sign of his covenant, which we know as the sign of circumcision.  God has waited a long time to bring this revelation to Abraham, so long that both Abraham and Sarah were past the age of childbearing.  Romans 4:19-21 describes Abraham, "and without becoming weak in faith he contemplated his own body, now as good as dead since he was about a hundred years old and the deadness of Sarah's womb."  Later on in Genesis 17, it says that after El Shaddai spoke to Abraham, he had all the males in his household circumcised.  Even Abraham at age 99 was circumcised!  God Almighty asked and Abraham obeyed.   We've talked about how the word El, in Hebrew, means God. Shaddai's translation is a bit trickier. There is much debate on how it should translate into our English language. Like many things found within Scripture there is deeper meaning here. Shaddai in Hebrew has many sounds and meanings within this one word, so let's dig a little deeper: ·      Shadu is a word in Akkadian language that Abram spoke and it means mountain.  Thus, it would mean the God of the mountain. ·      Saday is a Hebrew noun that means a cultivated field or a wild place where animals abound.  Thus, it would mean a God who is the creator of life. ·      Shad is a Hebrew noun which means breasts or relating to fertility.  Thus, it means a God who nourishes or multiplies. ·      Day, at the end of word, means sufficient, enough, or abundance.   And while we may translate El Shaddai as Almighty God in English, it really just isn't sufficient.  El Shaddai is the God of the mountain who is Creator, who makes life out of nothing, multiplies it, and provides all we need and more in His great abundance.  He is a God faithful to his promises.  I hope you get a feel for the richness of the word.   Part of our Scripture reading for today was also Psalm 91, a beautiful psalm of protection.  And it reads something like this: He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High God, El Elyon, will abide in the shadow of the Almighty, El Shaddai.  To abide is an old word that means to remain in, to rest in.  Thus, we call on El Shaddai when our life circumstances seem horrible or impossible and we need to lean into Him and remain in Him.  In doing so, we receive his strength, his abundance, and his faithfulness.  Out of his bounty, El Shaddai will pour into us and our life.   Has there ever been a time in your life in which circumstances seemed impossible? Has there been a time in which you needed to be nourished back to life and reminded that we have a God who keeps His promises and wants you to be a part of them?  Pray to El Shaddai today.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki        

Daily Dose of Hope May 7, 2026   Name of God: Elohim – The Mighty Creator Scripture: Genesis 1:1, 1:26-27, Psalm 90:2, Ecc. 12:14   Prayer:  Almighty Father, Elohim, Mighty Creator, Thank You for speaking light into my darkness, order into my chaos, and my life into being. I submit again to you and welcome your creative work in me and through me for Your glory.  It's in your name I pray, Amen   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are now doing a 16-day reading plan that goes through the Old Testament names of God.  We mentioned this yesterday but it's worth repeating - names in ancient times were believed to reveal a person's character. As we study God's name, we study His character and His ways.    Today is day two of that plan and the name we are covering is Elohim.  Elohim is the name for God as Creator. Elohim is the plural form of El. El was a word borrowed from the Canaanites and is one of the oldest designations for divinity in the world. In the original Hebrew of the Old Testament, El means mighty or strong and is used for any reference to gods, including the one true God.  He is the God of gods, the highest of all. Elohim occurs 32 times in the first chapter of Genesis and more than 2,500 times in the Old Testament.   That actually leads us to our first two Scriptures for today from Genesis 1. I'll insert this Hebrew name as I read: "In the beginning Elohim created the heavens and the earth.  Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of Elohim was hovering over the waters.  And Elohim said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light.  Elohim saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness.  Elohim called the light 'day,' and the darkness he called 'night.'"  Elohim created the heavens and the earth. The power of his voice formed substance from nothing, brought order to chaos, and exploded light into the vast darkness. It was Elohim who created man and woman in his own image and breathed into them the breath of life as we read in Genesis 1:26-27. As we will discover in this reading plan, a Biblical author is not choosing a name for God willy-nilly.  There is purpose in the name they choose.  With Elohim, this name communicates God's royal majesty over all creation and nations.  Thus, in Genesis 1, the creation of the world and humanity is attributed to Elohim, the mighty creator.  But in Genesis 2, God is referred to as YHWH, God's sacred name, which we talked about yesterday.  The Scripture that uses Elohim is making a specific point.  Look at another Scripture from our reading, Psalm 90:2, Before the mountains were born or you brough forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting, you are God (or Elohim). One other example is Isaiah 45:18 when the prophet writes, The One who made the heavens and the earth, He is God (Elohim). Paul reminds us that while many other so-called elohim (false gods) want our attention and worship and attempt to pull us away from our mighty creator, we are subject to the one Elohim and one Elohim only.  We are subject to the Elohim who created us, sustains us, and sent us Jesus Christ.   He created the universe and yet He is intimately personal to you. He personally, intricately made you. Let's close by meditating on another word from Psalm 139:14-15, "For You formed my inward parts; You knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are Your works; my soul knows it very well."  May you be reminded today that the God of all created you with a purpose.  You were not accident, you were wanted and desired, and Elohim is still active and creating new things in YOU! Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

This sermon was delivered by Aaron Jerome at New Hope Church of Oxford on May 3, 2026. The text of Scripture is First John 3:1-18.

Daily Dose of Hope May 1, 2026   Scripture: 2 Timothy 2   Prayer:  Lord Jesus, You are Lord of all.  How often we forget that.  There are times we even put ourselves in your place.  Forgive us, Lord.  Help us to remember that you are God and we are not.  Help us simply live the way you have called us, serve the way you have called us, and love the way you have called us.  We know that we fall short over and over again.  We need you.  All the time, we need you.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We have been journeying through Paul's letters and we have made great progress.  We are now in our final pastoral letter, 2 Timothy.   Today's reading is 2 Timothy 2.  Besides the outside persecution that the church in Ephesus was experiencing, Paul also addresses another serious issue: in-fighting.  There were quarrels and fights within the Ephesian church, literally translated "word battles", that threatened to unravel the young church.  The church members were battling over doctrinal viewpoints and had formed factions.   Paul encourages Timothy to plead with the Ephesian believers to basically remember who and whose they are, to remember what was most important, and to explain how arguments within the church have the potential to damage the Kingdom.   How often have modern day churches been unraveled over word battles?  It's amazing to me how easily distracted we get.  We forget who we represent and get pulled into doctrinal arguments that really don't matter that much.  We read books, we listen to podcasts, and we think we know a lot.  Others think they know a lot too and we get pulled into debates that really aren't that important.  It's then that it's helpful to remember Paul's admonition in this chapter which is basically, "Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David—that is my gospel." Succinct, clear, confident. And we remember again that the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ is not a bunch of words or slick interpretations but is about resurrection—the powerful and loving act of God—remaking our world into the place he always intended it to be. We major in the minors as some people say.  Are you currently engaged in any word battles with other believers?  It's time to put them to rest.    Blessings, Pastor Vicki   May 6 – YHWH, The Self-Existent One – Ex 3:14-15, 6:2-3 • Ps 83:18 • Is 42:8 May 7 – Elohim – The Mighty Creator – Gen 1:1, 1:26-27 • Ps 90:2 • Ecc 12:14 May 8 – El Shaddai – Lord God Almighty – Gen 17:1-2, 28:3, 35:11, 43:14, 49:25 • Ps 91:1 May 11 – El Elyon – The Most High God – Gen 14:18-20 • Ps 7:17, 52:2, 78:35 • Dan 4 May 12 – El Olam – The Everlasting God – Gen 21:33 • Is 40:28, 26:4 • Jer 10:10 • Ps 90:1-2  

Daily Dose of Hope April 30, 2026   Scripture: 2 Timothy 1   Prayer:  Almighty God, We come before you with awe and humility.  Help us remember all you have done for us.  We are nothing without you.  We need you desperately, Lord.  Help us gather our scattered thoughts today as we focus on you.  In these next few moments of silence, help us remember that we belong to you.  Help us lay our worries and cares on the throne of your grace...We pray this in the powerful name of Jesus, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We have been journeying through Paul's letters and we have made great progress.  Today, we are actually beginning our final pastoral letter, 2 Timothy.   Today's reading is 2 Timothy 1.  In this second letter to Timothy (and his final New Testament letter), Paul again wants to encourage Timothy, who has now been ministering to the churches at Ephesus for four years.  Paul is writing this letter from a dank Roman prison cell and he knows that his death is imminent.  Paul also seems to know that Timothy's ministry will only get harder once Paul dies, as the persecution is now severe and the challenges for the young churches are many.    Knowing the context in which this book was written helps us better understand it.  Paul wants Timothy to continue his ministry without fear and there was much to fear.  Paul mentions just a few of his challenges: abandonment by friends, persecution and imprisonment, physical pain and suffering.  Paul knew that Timothy may eventually face similar trials.  But living fearlessly in the midst of hardship requires more than some encouraging words of advice.  The only way Timothy (and us for that matter) can survive in such difficult times is through the power of God which lives within us.   Remember, if you have said yes to Jesus, the Spirit of the Living God dwells within you.  On our own, even on our best day, we aren't that powerful but God always is.  Paul reminds Timothy that it is the Holy Spirit within him that provides the power, love, and self-discipline needed to persevere in the faith and to live abundant and joy-filled lives in the middle of puzzling and difficult times.  I don't know about you but this was a message I needed to hear today.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

Daily Dose of Hope April 29, 2026   Scripture: Titus 3   Prayer:  Abba Father, We come to you today in awe of your love for us.  Thank you, Lord, for your sacrifice.  Thank you for sitting high and looking low.  We give you all the glory and praise, Lord Jesus.  Help us to be less selfish and more like you.  On our own, we mess it up.  We need you, Jesus.  We need you minute by minute.  Guide our thoughts today, Lord.  Guide our words and guide our actions.  May we look more like you today, Lord, than we did yesterday.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We have been journeying through Paul's letters and we have made great progress.  We are currently finishing up the book of Titus.   Our reading for today is Titus 3.  In this chapter, we see that Paul didn't want the Cretans to cause a scene and stir up political discontent.  What was most important was the spread of the Gospel.  Creating political conflict would not help the cause of the young church and Paul wanted to be sure they understood that.  Again, they were not to get involved in quarrels and arguments that simply weren't that important.  They needed to show the world that there was something different about them: humility, gentleness, and kindness.  Rather than get involved in political messes, they should get involved in doing good in their community.  It simply wasn't about them and their personal preferences; it was about reaching people for Jesus.   How much more could we all do for the Kingdom if we worried less about personal preferences and politics and focused more on spreading the Good News of Jesus?  Wow!  We get so distracted with things we have very little control over.  Again, don't major in the minors.  Keep laser focus on what truly matters – Jesus.   I wrote this list of questions for myself but thought I would share: -How much time do I spend thinking about politics and conflict rather than Jesus Christ and sharing the Gospel? -How often do I get frustrated or angry over politics and things I can't control instead of focusing on loving others and things I can control? -Do people know me for what I'm against or for what I am for? -Am I viewed as someone who is humble, gentle, and kind?  If not, then why not? -Is Jesus central to my thoughts?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope April 28, 2026   Scripture: Titus 2   Prayer:  Lord, Oh, how we need you. Cleanse my heart, cleanse my speech, cleanse my actions. I want the world to see that I belong to you and you alone. More of you, Jesus, and less of me. In Your Name, Amen   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We have been journeying through Paul's letters and we have made great progress.  We are currently in the book of Titus. Our reading for today is Titus 2.  In this chapter, Paul gives very specific instructions to young and old as to how to behave and conduct themselves as followers of Christ. As opposed to the false teachers in chapter one, Paul wants Titus to teach sound doctrine, which includes that behavior should be consistent with belief; there are certain virtues that Christians should live up to. Doing otherwise damages their witness in the community. Titus himself, as the leader, must also be an example of living a blameless, virtuous life.  Unfortunately, we have all seen the consequences when a Christian leader fails to live righteously and it almost always has terrible ramifications for the Kingdom.  Bottom line:  There should be a direct link between theology and ethics. If we truly believe that God has been revealed and salvation has come, that those who believe are freed and cleansed from sin because of the blood of Christ, and that receiving Christ makes us new creations, THEN we should act accordingly. We are no longer slaves to the mess of the world. We have the ability to change, to act differently, to behave in a way that demonstrates the Spirit within us. Our behavior, our ethics, our speech should all testify to who and whose we are. How are you doing in this right now?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Daily Dose of Hope April 27, 2026   Scripture: Titus 1   Prayer:  Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, That my thoughts may all be holy. Act in me, O Holy Spirit, That my work, too, may be holy. Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, That I love but what is holy. Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, To defend all that is holy. Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, That I always may be holy.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We have been journeying through Paul's letters and we have made great progress.  Today, we are starting pastoral letter #12 out of 13.  Our reading for today is Titus 1.  This is a letter from Paul to his dear friend, Titus.  Paul had left Titus on the island of Crete to organize the church there and carry on the work that was started.  One of his main tasks was to appoint elders or overseers for the local churches; this means basically choose some pastors.  There were specific characteristics for the pastors that Paul outlines in this chapter, including being blameless, being faithful to a single wife, and not being prone to anger or drunkenness.  These are consistent with the lists for elders in Paul's other letters as well. This first chapter highlights that the false teachers have made it to Crete as well.  The circumcision group refers to Jewish Christians who are vehemently promoting the idea that to be a Christian, one must be a Jew first, which includes becoming circumcised.  Paul wants this group silenced.  They are teaching against the Gospel, which clearly states that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone.  All that is required for salvation is faith; anyone who adds to this is a false teacher.  Think about the world we live in.  False teachers are everywhere.  They may not be promoting circumcision as a prerequisite for salvation but other ideas that are equally damaging.  How important it is for us to grow our roots down deep into God's Word so that we won't be swayed by the many ideas out there, the many voices that are vying for our attention.  One voice matters-Jesus. Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

Are you performing holiness — or actually living it? Most of us have felt the gap between who we appear to be and who we actually are. Pastor Vicki Harrison opens Matthew 23:23-28 and takes a hard, honest look at what Jesus had to say to the people who had perfected the outward appearance while something entirely different lived underneath. Jesus called them whitewashed tombs. But he said it as grief, not contempt. Because the people who should have been pointing others toward God were doing the opposite. This message ends with a challenge that takes real courage: ask someone you trust where they see inconsistency between who you say you are and how you actually live. Then listen. Don't defend. Just listen.

Daily Dose of Hope April 22, 2026   Scripture: 1 Timothy 4   Prayer:  Father God, hear our prayer this morning.  We are awed by your power and strength.  We are amazed by your love.  Thank you, Lord, for the many ways you show in our lives to teach us and care for us.  Help us gather our scattered thoughts right now and focus on you.  In these next few moments of silence, help us (help me) be still and know that you are God...Come Holy Spirit, and help us walk through this Scripture in a way that honors you.  Show up and help us discover whatever it is you want us to learn.  This is your Word and we want to hear from you.  In Your powerful name, Amen.   Welcome back, everyone, to the Daily Dose of Hope, a devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  As most of you know, we are well into Paul's letters at this point.  In fact, we are in the middle of our eleventh letter, 1 Timothy.  We are moving right along.   Today's Scripture reading is 1 Timothy 4.  Paul makes some interesting and powerful statements in the beginning of the chapter about those who would leave the faith. He very astutely points out that just because someone initially commits to the faith doesn't mean they will stick with it. When things get tough, when false teachers rear their ugly head, when it is no longer convenient, then they may turn away. Paul seems to make the point that this is not an if but a when. This simply means their initial confession was not sincere. While I don't want to spend a lot of time on this topic, I think we often find this in modern faith circles. Just because someone has said the words of a sinner's prayer does not mean they actually know Jesus or understand what they have said. Something to think about for sure and speaks to the absolute necessity of discipling and nurturing new believers.   In the middle of the chapter, Paul is speaking directly to Timothy. He must have been a timid young man. Paul wants him to take authority and not allow people to dismiss him because he was younger. He needed to guide and lead the church both in his words and preaching but also in his lifestyle. Even as a younger man, Paul encourages him to lead by example.   While we give lip service to including young people in the leadership of the church, the reality is that we don't do it enough. We have lots of reasons for this (I've found myself giving excuses too). But God doesn't call the equipped, he equips the called. If God calls one of our teenagers or young adults to be a leader, then we need to embrace them, nurture them, and give them the space to lead. While I don't think we have that many young people who subscribe to the Daily Dose, but whoever is out there, please listen closely: You are called and God will empower you to lead!  Want to serve in leadership at New Hope? Come and talk to me directly.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Embrace a Spirit-led invitation to mission and mercy as Mission Sunday celebrates New Hope Church's partnership with Compassion, showing how through one sponsor at a time, children receive miracles of hope and transformation.

Daily Dose of Hope April 9, 2026   Scripture: Philippians 4   Prayer:  Holy God, You are a God of order and a God of purpose.  The world may seem chaotic, but you are not.  You have ordered your world with perfection.  Help us trust you.  Lord, fill us with your perfect peace.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We have been walking through Paul's letters and today we finish the letter to the Philippians.   Today's reading is Philippians 4.  Philippians 4 is one of my all-time favorite chapters in the Bible!  Why?  Because in the midst of living in a society that strives to be happy and fails, Paul shares with us the keys to true joy.  We are going to just focus on v. 4-8 today but be sure to read through the whole chapter.  It's truly a beautiful end to his letter to the Philippians.   Philippians 4:4 is a great verse to memorize.  Paul writes, Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!  Have joy in God.  Be joyful in the Lord always.  What's interesting to me about this letter that Paul uses some form of the word joy fourteen times in these four short chapters.  He is serious about joy.  And he isn't at some resort somewhere drinking good wine and eating steak.  Not at all, he is in a Roman prison cell.   Paul is in a dank, dark, poorly ventilated Roman prison cell.  Keep in mind, Roman prison cells were designed to strip a prisoner of dignity.  They were filthy, often crowded.  Unlike today, there was no such thing as being condemned to serve a sentence in prison.  Although people could spend a lot of time in prison, it was time in which they were awaiting trial to then be given their real punishment, which could very well be death.    Paul, at the time he wrote this letter, has probably been in prison for about four years.  He had no idea what was going to happen to him.  He had been charged with inciting riots among the Jewish communities in different cities and he was simply waiting to hear whether or not he would be put to death.    And yet, Paul writes to rejoice in the Lord always.  To the world, this wouldn't make any sense.  What makes sense to the world?  Well, seeking happiness.  Happiness is based on your happenings.  When your happenings, your circumstances, are going really well, when you feel really good, when things are going your way, then you are happy.  But joy is something else entirely.  Our world doesn't really understand joy.  Joy is not a feeling or an emotion.  Joy is not dependent on circumstances or whether things are going our way.  No, joy is a fruit of the Spirit, it's the manifestation of God in the midst of ALL circumstances.  It's an orientation that declares every day is a gift from God.   But Paul goes on in verses 5-7,  Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. When tragedy hits, when we are in the midst of despair but when we know that God is near, then it creates space for a different response than anxiety.  Rather than constant worry and anxiety, we can move to prayer and petition.  So now this is beginning to make a little more sense.  When we are gentle and know the Lord is near, we seek God in prayer.  This isn't a formula by any means but Paul is saying that one generally follows the other… Choose to REJOICE --- Be gentle/be like Jesus --- Know God is near ---- Seek God in prayer. This in turn, will lead to less anxiety and more thanksgiving.  Why?  Because gratitude does something to our heart.  When we are thankful, we are reminded of God's faithfulness.  We are reminded of all the times God has shown up and taken care of us. I recently read that there are two kinds of people:  Those who are currently facing hard circumstances and those who will soon be facing hard circumstances.  Think of what Jesus said in John 16:33, In this world you will have trouble, but take heart because I have overcome the world.  This is the reality.  When, not if, we face trouble, we have 2 choices:  anxiety or rejoicing.    Anxiety is generally how the world responses.  Sometimes, it's how we respond to.  But it is the world's go-to response.  It leads to more distress, more seeking escape in things like food, alcohol, drugs, sex, shopping, anything that will bring pleasure, no matter how short-lived.   God is calling us to respond differently:  by rejoicing.  Rejoicing reminds us who God is, who we are, and that we are not alone.  REJOICING leads to peace.  Anxiety leads to inner conflict and misery.    Let's end this part of our discussion with verse 8, Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.  I would encourage you to memorize this verse.  This is about changing our thought life.  It's a method/strategy for dealing with worry and anxiety.  So often, we get in a loop.  We play the tape over and over again in our head.  What if this happens?  Why did that happen?  What will I do if this occurs?    I'm wondering if Paul, in his Roman prison cell, sometimes fell prey to this kind of thinking.  It's like he is telling us, "look, you think you can't rejoice but you can.  Stop thinking about the bad stuff and start thinking about that which is true, that which is noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or worthy of praise."    This means turning off the news.  It means turning off Facebook.  It means removing the external sources of negativity from your life as much as possible.  Focus on what is worthy of praise.  What things in your life are worthy of praise?     Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

On Easter Sunday at New Hope Church, Pastor Vicki Harrison reminded us that the resurrection is not just a past event to celebrate once a year. Jesus is alive, the stone has been rolled away, and that living hope still brings forgiveness, freedom, and new life today.

Daily Dose of Hope March 30, 2026   Scripture: Ephesians 2   Prayer:  Lord, Let us start by thanking you for a new day.  You are the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, the one who was, and is, and is to come.  You are all powerful and all knowing.  We give thanks for your love and wisdom.  We give thanks for your presence.  Help us, Lord, gather our scattered thoughts.  Help us set aside distractions and listen to what you have for us today.  In these next few moments of silence, hear our prayers...Jesus, we love you.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are journeying through Paul's letters, reading them in chronological order.  Just a reminder, there are thirteen letters and we are currently on our seventh!    Our reading for today is Ephesians 2.  Central to our belief as Christians is that Jesus was not only resurrected but also exalted to a high place. In fact, he sits at the right hand of the Father right now. The amazing thing is that we as believers receive new life in Christ AND we also are exalted with him in the heavenly realms. Today's Scripture states that the purpose of this is that we can be shown the incomparable riches of his grace.   Think about that for a moment. The Message translation says it a different way: Once God has us where he wants us, he will have all the time in the world to "shower grace and kindness upon us." We get to know and experience Jesus' amazing love for us right now. We are exalted with him and he continues to shower us with grace and love. Wow.   But there is more. Our salvation is totally and completely based on faith and nothing else. We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus alone. There is nothing else needed to be saved. At the time Paul wrote this, there were plenty of people who said that circumcision and following the law were also necessary to be saved. Paul has made it clear that NOTHING else is needed-we are saved by the amazing grace of Jesus and all we have to do is have faith. God knows us well and he did this so that we couldn't brag about our salvation because it was totally his doing and not ours. Again, wow.   But there is still more. We are also God's handiwork. Other translations say "masterpiece." We are created by God to do good things that God designed us specifically to do. If you needed a Scripture to illustrate the phrase "God don't make no junk," this could be it. You are God's masterpiece. He lovingly designed you. You are not a random experiment. He had YOU in mind when he made you. Your gifts and talents were also not random but were given to you by God to do good things for his world. You are a masterpiece and you have a purpose. Let that sink in.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Daily Dose of Hope March 27, 2026   Scripture: Ephesians 1   Prayer:  Holy God, Thank you for this day and thank you for the ways you provide and care for us.  We rejoice in your powerful and mighty name.  As we read through the Scripture today and reflect on what it means for us, help us hear a new word from you.  Help us set aside the distractions of the day and really listen for your voice.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are working our way through Paul's New Testament letters, in chronological order.  Yesterday, we finished the book of Romans and today we begin our seventh pastoral letter, the book of Ephesians.   Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus is quite extraordinary!  The prose is both beautiful and powerful.  It speaks to who we are in Jesus, new life in Christ, and what we must now do about it.    The church at Ephesus, in modern-day Turkey, was established on Paul's second missionary journey.  On his third missionary journey, Paul spent 2-3 years in the city. He addressed false doctrines and pagan practices.  In his letter to the church of Ephesus, written roughly ten years later, Paul commends the Ephesian church on their faith and love. They have done well and we see that expressed in this letter.    There is a lot to say about this first chapter, but I want to focus on the middle portion. Paul states how he has heard of their faith and love, and he gives thanks for them and their dedication to Jesus.  He lifts them in prayer, specifically that they will know God even more and will be given supernatural wisdom and revelation.  While he is pleased with their spiritual maturity, he is still praying for them, that they continue to grow in holiness.  Paul wants them to truly have the knowledge of God, which can't be gained by study but only through God himself.    As I reread this, I couldn't help but think about how we are never done growing spiritually.  We never get to the point in our walk in which we can say, "That's it, I've made it, no more study, prayer, or service needed for me!"  If we aren't dead, we aren't done.  God isn't done with any of us yet.    One more thing I want to mention. Paul speaks of believers being marked by a seal.  In the ancient world, a seal was the personal sign of an owner who was sending something very important. It also indicated that what was received was genuine, in that it was truly from the person who it said it was from. The Jews thought of circumcision as a seal ,in that circumcision indicated they belonged to the one true God. In today's Scripture, the apostle Paul is saying that we as Christians are also marked with a seal, the seal of the Holy Spirit, which guarantees to whom we belong and that what we believe in true and genuine. In Christ, you are marked with the most important seal in the world! If you have said yes to Jesus, then the Holy Spirit has marked you. You are claimed. You can be assured that you are a child of God.    Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Daily Dose of Hope March 26, 2026   Scripture: Romans 16   Prayer:  Holy God, We start by praising your name.  You are a good God, a mighty God, and a wise God.  Work in our lives.  Speak to us.  We need you, Lord.  Over and over again, we need you.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, hear our prayers...In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are working our way through Paul's New Testament letters, in chronological order.  Today, we are finishing the book of Romans and tomorrow we begin the book of Ephesians.   Our reading for today is Romans 16.  The final chapter of Romans has this beautiful section of greetings to the people that Paul has worked with and encountered in his ministry.  I love how this was obviously a letter for regular people.  This was not a letter intended for religious scholars.  Rather, Paul sent it to people he cared about in an effort to help them in their own lives and ministries.   Another interesting note is that out of twenty-six people who are listed as special workers in ministry, nine are women.  This is especially impressive because Rome was a male-dominated society and women had little, if any, social and legal standing.  But in the church, things were different.  There is also a variety when it comes to the names: some of Jewish, some are Latin, and many are Greek.  While I'm sure the early church had its issues, it appears to be a diverse mix of men and women, from different cultural and religious backgrounds.  Essentially, it was a great picture of the Kingdom of God.   God's Kingdom is universal, with people from all races, cultures, and stations in life.  In God's Kingdom, men and women serve alongside each other.  It's a place in which every single human life has value and no one is better than another.  God's values are actively at work: love, justice, mercy, righteousness, hope, and freedom for the oppressed.  Somewhere in the history of the church, it got off track.  The church became less Kingdom-focused and more about growing the institution.  It began to resemble the culture around it.  Certain people were excluded, corruption crept in, sin invaded.  It's hard to read a church history text because it seems so far from the church Paul was trying to establish.   Paul also warns his dear friends about avoiding division and those who seek to create it.  He actually says to stay away from people who create conflict in the church.  Wow.  That's handy guidance.  Be aware, be vigilant, listen to the Holy Spirit, and don't be deceived by the evil one.    As much as the church has gone through, we know that the powers of Satan and the powers of men cannot defeat it.  I think of Jesus' words in Matthew 16 when he tells Peter that it's on that rock, his confession of Jesus' Lordship, that Jesus will build his church and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. The church has and will prevail, despite all our brokenness and sin.  God's mercies are new every single day!  As a church, we can pray and strive to be a better picture of God's Kingdom.  In fact, my on-going prayer for New Hope is that we will become a multiplying congregation-multicultural, multiracial, and multigenerational.  I pray that we will be the kind of place where people from all walks of life find a place of belonging, a place to be nurtured and loved.  I hope you will join me in this prayer.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

Daily Dose of Hope March 20, 2026   Scripture: Romans 12   Prayer:  Heavenly Father, We come to you today praising your holy name.  You are a good God!  Thank you for caring for us, for walking alongside us, but  most of all thank you for Jesus, who died our death, so that we can walk hand in hand with you.  Help us live like resurrection people in the way of Jesus.  We don't want to get stuck in our religion.  We want to live transformed lives in Jesus.  How we need you, Lord.  We are stubborn people.  Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently working our way through Paul's letters.  We are now in the book of Romans.  Don't forget to let me know what you are learning.  Offer feedback – let me know about your big takeaways.   Today, we read through Romans 12.  Just so you know, Romans 12 is some of my very favorite New Testament Scripture!  It is incredibly powerful.  Paul is saying that because of this amazing gift of salvation, those who receive it should be truly committed to God.  Christ-followers should dedicate their whole life in service to Jesus Christ, become living sacrifices.    This would have had significant meaning to Paul's audience, as the sacrificial system was still alive and well.  But unlike the Old Testament sacrifices, Christ-followers voluntarily offer their living bodies, every part of their existence, to the work of Jesus in the world.  They make Jesus not simply their savior but also their Lord.  Doing this is the kind of worship that God finds right and pleasing.  We might call this surrendering everything to King Jesus.   This clearly separates us from the surrounding culture.  Living for Jesus rather than ourselves or things of this world is unusual.  People notice.  Paul urges the Romans to not fit so well into their culture but experience life change as Jesus transforms their thinking.  Faith isn't just about the heart and emotions but also about the mind.  God wants to change our way of thinking so that we better reflect Jesus.  Do we fit into our culture?  Be honest with yourself.  Do your neighbors, coworkers, and other acquaintances know that you belong to Jesus?  Is your thinking more influenced by Scripture and the things of God or the national news, politics, and social media?  How easy it is to simply blend right into the culture around us. Paul's words to the Romans certainly ring true for us today.   Paul addresses several other concepts here too.  He talks about spiritual gifts.  Similar to the Corinthians, there is evidence the Romans also were arguing about which gifts were better.  Paul makes it clear that all the gifts are critical.  Plus, all believers belong to each other.  The church cannot function without everyone and their various gifts.  No one should be conceited – just keep in mind that by itself, your gift just isn't that great.   Finally, there is Paul's closing to the chapter.  I just love this.  He is talking about how to demonstrate love to other people.  If we all simply took this to heart, what a different place our community would be!  Paul emphasizes the Proverbs here, stating, "If your enemy is hungry, feed him;   if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."  Let's be real, the church hasn't been so good at this.  What would we as Jesus' church look like, what would we need to change, if we focused on not becoming overcome with evil but overcoming evil with good?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki            

Daily Dose of Hope March 19, 2026   Scripture: Romans 11   Prayer:   Almighty God, we start by pausing before you.  Help us set aside the distractions of the morning or the day and focus on you.  In these next few moments of silence, help us gather our scattered thoughts and think only of you...Help us be still and know you are God.  God, we rejoice that we can freely read your Word and we are grateful that you speak through it to us. It's truly a miracle.  Holy Spirit, we also invite you to join us as we seek to grow deeper in relationship with you.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently working our way through Paul's letters.  We are now in our sixth pastoral letter, the book of Romans.  Don't forget to let me know what you are learning.  Offer feedback – let me know about your big takeaways.   Today, our reading is Romans 11.  Paul is stating that because Israel rejected the Gospel, the Gentiles had the opportunity to receive it.  Interestingly, Paul says that the salvation of the Gentiles was meant to instill a desire in the Jews for the same amazing gift.  But that didn't necessarily happen.  At the same time, the Gentiles really didn't do anything to make the Jews jealous of this gift.  Think about it, Gentile Christians throughout the centuries have had the opportunity to share the love and grace of Jesus Christ with Jews, to demonstrate the abundant life that comes by walking closely with Jesus.  While that may have happened occasionally, more often we see Jews treated with persecution, oppression, and violence.    Do you have any Jews in your sphere of influence or circle of friends?  What are their thoughts of Jesus?  Spend some time right now praying for their salvation and how God might be calling you to share the story of Jesus with them.   There are two other things I want to mention from the chapter.  The first is this idea of being grafted in.  Paul compares Israel to the natural branches of an olive tree and the Gentile believers as the branches of a wild olive tree.  Some of the natural branches, the Jews, have broken off, but the wild branches, the Gentiles have been grafted in.  Because of this, the Gentiles are now can receive God's promises and receive salvation.  We are part of God's Kingdom, his family.   While the Gentiles have been grafted in, that doesn't mean that God is done with Israel.  Paul is making a point that God's purposes won't be complete until Israel is grafted back into God's people.  All people, Jews and Gentiles, were intended to share in the promises of Abraham and his seed.  This is all part of God's full redemptive plan.    The last thing I wanted to mention was the doxology at the end of the chapter.  When I first read the chapter, it seemed out of place. But upon further reflection, it makes sense.  Paul is overcome by God's mercy and grace.  He begins the doxology with a groan or sigh.  Think about it - Paul has just gotten done discussing God's plan of salvation for all people and how this demonstrates God's goodness, mercy, and incredible wisdom.  Paul is finding all of this so incredibly powerful and needs to stop his letter to simply write some words of worship before he moves on.  He is overwhelmed with gratitude to God and worship seemed the most appropriate response.   When was the last time you were overwhelmed with gratitude or thanksgiving to God for what he has done?  What is your response?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Daily Dose of Hope March 18, 2026   Scripture: Romans 10   Prayer:   Almighty God, We thank you for a new day and we praise your perfect name.  We are grateful that your mercies are new every single morning.  Help us see you in this day.  Help us recognize your voice.  Lord, help us reflect you today in our words.  Help us reflect you in our behavior.  Help us remember who and whose we are.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently working our way through Paul's letters chronologically.  We are now in our sixth pastoral letter, the book of Romans.   Today's reading is Romans 10.  Romans 10 is packed with substance.  There are two things that strike me in this chapter.  First is Paul's discussion about the heart.  He is making an argument that the law is not what makes someone righteous, but their belief in Jesus.  He is speaking of a new circumcision, essentially, a circumcision of the heart.  It isn't about what we do or what is done to us (in the case of a baby boy being circumcised), it is about our heart.  Do we believe in Jesus?  Do we love Jesus?  Have we made a commitment in our heart to Jesus Christ?    Keep in mind this was a total 180 degrees from what the Jews knew and believed.  I think sometimes we are pretty hard on the Jews.  Why don't they just believe?  Well, this was really different from everything they had been taught about being right with God.  Paul seems to get this struggle and it frames his arguments with Hebrew people.  He is anguished that they don't believe.  While it is a huge shift, he knows how much better life is when Christ is at the center.  As we can all imagine, the law (works) is a terrible thing to build your life around because you are never good enough.  On the other hand, with Jesus, he has declared us good enough because of his saving work on the cross, not because of anything we have done or haven't done.  This totally levels the playing field, as Paul expresses in verse 12.  It doesn't matter if one is Jew or Greek for all who call on the name of the Lord will be saved.  This is great news, everyone!   The other piece that made an impression on me this morning was Paul's emphasis on sharing the good news.  Starting with verse 14, he writes, How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"  And that is still the case today, isn't it?  How can anyone know if they have never heard?  I think we make the assumption that most people around us, like neighbors, coworkers, golf buddies, and gym friends, know about Jesus.  Often, people have a vague idea about Jesus or even an incorrect view of Jesus.  Yet, they must know and profess Jesus to be saved.  I've also learned that some people, especially younger ones, truly have no idea what it means to believe in Jesus Christ.    Friends, the harvest is tremendous but the workers are few.  How can they believe if they have not heard?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Daily Dose of Hope March 17, 2026   Scripture: Romans 9   Prayer:   King Jesus, We come to you today with praise and lifting your name high.  You are a Lord of love, mercy, and forgiveness.  Thank you so much for allowing us to experience those things in you.  Also, Lord, thank you for showing us a new way of doing life.  The ways of this world are empty and temporal but your ways are eternal and fulfilling.  Help us be bold in our faith, staying strong in the midst of whatever challenges we face.  Help us live like the people you have called us to be.  We love you.  Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently working our way through Paul's letters chronologically.  We are now in our sixth pastoral letter, the book of Romans.   Today's reading is Romans 9.  One thing that is evident to me in the beginning is Paul's anguish for his people.  He is heart-broken for his Jewish brothers and sisters who have rejected Jesus.  I kind of picture him on his hands and knees praying for softened hearts.  And then I thought about how we should probably all be doing that.  How many people do I know, do you know, who don't have a saving relationship with Jesus?  Why aren't we on our hands and knees praying for their hearts to be softened and more open to the Gospel?  And how many of our brothers and sisters in the church are focusing on the wrong thing – religion instead of Jesus?  This also drives me to prayer.  Just a thought.   One other aspect of this chapter that kind of hit me is Paul's warning.  It appears that he is warning Christians to be careful.  Afterall, the Jews began to think that their connection was God was simply a right.  That they would be accepted because of their Jewish blood.  I can't help but think this is a warning to all of us – don't get too comfortable.  None of us have a right to be here.  We have a relationship with God and we have salvation because of what Jesus Christ has done for us.  We did nothing to earn it and we don't deserve it.  I worry that at times, in the church, we might fall into the same trap that the Jews fell into, thinking we are superior or have some kind of right to be here because we have "been in church" so long.  In doing so, there is the possibility, just maybe, that we might look down our nose at others and not extend grace and mercy like we are called to do.  Paul's warning is real, my friends.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Why do we feel so lonely in the most connected generation in history? Pastor and leadership mentor Keith Spurgin joins The Missional Life Podcast to discuss his new book Unknown: Finding Connection in a Disconnected World. Through personal stories, biblical insights, and leadership lessons, Keith reveals how isolation quietly undermines marriages, ministries, and spiritual health. Discover how vulnerability, trust, and authentic relationships unlock the kind of community God designed us for. This episode will help you move from surface-level connections to life-giving relationships rooted in Christ. ❤️About the GuestKeith Spurgin is a pastor, bestselling author, and founder of New Hope Church in North Dallas. He also leads the Global Leadership Network Growth Resourcing Group, equipping leaders across North America, Europe, and Africa. Through his writing and leadership coaching, Keith helps believers and ministry leaders build healthier relationships, stronger teams, and deeper spiritual lives.Reasons to ListenUnderstanding Modern Loneliness: Keith reveals why people feel more isolated than ever despite constant digital connection and how believers can rediscover meaningful relationships.Leadership and Vulnerability: Learn how leaders can build trusted inner circles that prevent isolation and strengthen both ministry and personal life.Practical Steps for Real Connection: Discover actionable ways to build trust, deepen friendships, and create authentic community that reflects the heart of Christ.Big TakeawaysConnection Reflects God's Design: Humans are created in the image of a relational God, meaning authentic relationships are essential to spiritual health.Technology Isn't True Connection: Digital communication may create interaction, but it cannot replace genuine face-to-face relationships and vulnerability.Isolation Fuels Spiritual Struggles: When people withdraw from community after being hurt, the pain often deepens instead of healing.Trust Must Be Built Over Time: Healthy relationships grow through consistent vulnerability, honesty, and intentional effort.Everyone Needs an Inner Circle: Just as Jesus had a close group of trusted disciples, believers need a small group of people who truly know and support them.Missional ChallengesTake the First Step: Reach out to someone this week for coffee or a conversation and intentionally invest in building a deeper relationship.Practice Honest Vulnerability: Share something meaningful about your life with a trusted friend and invite them to share their journey as well.Build Your Inner Circle: Identify two or three people who could become trusted spiritual friends and begin intentionally strengthening those relationships.Chapters00:00 Introduction to The Missional Life Podcast01:00 Keith Spurgin's Personal Wake-Up Call04:30 When Success Creates Disconnection07:00 The Inspiration Behind Unknown11:00 Why Real Relationships Are Hard Work14:00 Performance vs. Presence in Leadership17:00 Cultural Perspectives on Community19:00 Loneliness and Spiritual Life23:00 Isolation vs. Stepping Into the Light30:00 Being Surrounded vs. Being Known35:00 Why Leaders Need an Inner Circle40:00 Vulnerability vs. Oversharing46:00 Practical Steps for Overcoming Loneliness49:00 Final Thoughts and Rapid-Fire QuestionsGuest Website & Social MediaWebsite: https://keithspurgin.netInstagram: @keithspurginTwitter/X: @keithspurginLinkedIn: Keith Spurgin#themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #Jesus #ChristianLeadership #FaithInAction #ChristianPodcast #AuthenticFaith #ChristianCommunity #KingdomLeadership #MissionalLiving______________________________________________________________________________________________>>>CLICK HERE to get your FREE 31 DAY MISSIONAL DEVOTIONALand to learn more about 'The Missional Life' ministry

Daily Dose of Hope March 16, 2026   Scripture: Romans 8   Prayer:   Almighty God, We come before you this morning with awe and humility.  Help us remember all you have done for us.  We are nothing without you.  We need you desperately, Lord.  Help us gather our scattered thoughts today as we focus on you.  In these next few moments of silence, help us remember that we belong to you.  Help us lay our worries and cares on the throne of your grace...We pray this in the powerful name of Jesus, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently working our way through Paul's letters chronologically.  We are now in our sixth pastoral letter, the book of Romans.   Today's reading is Romans 8.  There is so much substance in this one chapter.  Overall, Paul is telling us to live by the Spirit and he is encouraging us because no matter what, God's love prevails.  I'm going to touch on a few of the main points.    The first part of the chapter details how we need to live according to the Spirit.  Yes, we are human beings, so we have a sinful nature, but that doesn't mean we have to live according to that sinful nature.  Paul says that once we accept Jesus, the Holy Spirit indwells us, meaning the Spirit can guide us, convict us, and direct us.  In fact, we are only living in true freedom if we are allowing the Spirit to guide us.  Being led by the sinful nature is just another form of bondage and that leads to death.  When we live by the Spirit, we know that we are children of God, we have the assurance of salvation and new life in Christ.    In the next part of the chapter, Paul focuses on our present sufferings.  Keep in mind, the church at the time was enduring tremendous persecution.  It wasn't easy following Jesus in the Roman world.  But Paul says these sufferings are nothing compared to the future glory that they will experience.  These present hardships will not last.  Eternity with Jesus, on the other hand, will last forever.  He is encouraging them to stay the course, hold on, because it will get so much better.  In fact, he says something quite extraordinary:  All of these difficulties and challenges will actually be used by God in some way to bring him glory, to extend the purposes of his Kingdom.   That doesn't mean they won't be painful or really, really hard, but God won't let anything go to waste.   One part that I just love is when Paul speaks about all creation groaning for all things to be made right again.  Ever since the fall, God has been putting things in place to make things right, to basically reverse the effects of the fall.  Not only do we as human beings look forward to when death, suffering, and pain, are no longer part of our world, but so does all of creation.  I can't help thinking about that line in the praise song, So Will I, when Hillsong sings, "If the rocks cry out in reverence, so will I."  Y'all, even the rocks are yearning for God to make things right again, once and for all.    Paul also speaks about how the Spirit intercedes for us.  I love this.  When things are really, really bad, when we don't have words or don't have the strength to say the words, we can trust that the Spirit of the living God is interceding for us at the throne of grace with words we can't understand.    Have there been times in your life in which you just didn't have the ability to pray?  Maybe you were incapacitated or so distressed that the words couldn't come out.  I know I've had times in which all I can do is cry out, "Jesus!"  And I know, I trust, that the Holy Spirit understands and is working on my behalf.  How cool is that?  What a mighty God we serve.   But I can't finish this devotional without talking about the last part of the chapter.  Paul gives us this beautiful picture of God's love and how nothing at all can ever separate us from it.  I use this Scripture quite often in funerals, especially when the person has died under difficult circumstances.  I find it so hopeful that if that individual believed in Jesus, that nothing can separate them from God's love.  It very clearly says that death cannot separate from God's love, even difficult, painful deaths like drug overdoses and suicide.    Blessings, Pastor Vicki          

Daily Dose of Hope March 13, 2026   Scripture: Romans 7   Prayer:   Almighty God, We are in awe of you.  You are all-powerful and all-knowing.  You are the one who was, and is, and is to come.  We give you all the glory and praise.  We rejoice that you, the one who created all things, also cares so deeply for us.  We are overwhelmed by your love and grace, which you offer freely even when we mess up.  Thank you so much, Lord.  As we think about our day to come, help us set aside our scattered thoughts and focus on you...Oh Lord, how we need you.  We pray this in your powerful name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently working our way through Paul's letters chronologically.  We are now in our sixth pastoral letter, the book of Romans.   Today's reading is Romans 7.  This chapter describes our relationship to the law.  The law demonstrates how sinful we truly are.  We continually fail to follow the law, God's people throughout history have continually failed to follow the law, despite their best attempts.  The law exposes how vulnerable we all are to sin; it is like holding up a mirror.  It shows us our frailties and brokenness.  Paul mentions coveting.  The law tells him not to covet but that just makes him want to covet.    Keep in mind, this does not mean the law is bad.  It just shows how weak we happen to be.  On our own (that is, without Jesus), we will continue to mess up and do those things that we really don't want to do.  But in Jesus, we are new people.  We have the Holy Spirit living within us. That doesn't mean we won't mess up – we are still human.  But (and Paul will address this more in the next chapter) we have the ability to resist temptation and live for Jesus.  Again, none of this is because of us but because of who lives in us.    How often have we done something that we know is wrong even though we didn't want to?  That's our sinful nature.  Paul says that he does what he hates and doesn't do what he knows is right.  This is a problem we all face!  None of us are immune.  But as we grow in our walk with Jesus, I'm hoping we begin to resist that nature and lean into what we know is right.    What has been your experience with this?  How do you struggle with sin?  And how have you seen your thoughts and behavior change as you have grown in your Christian walk?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki          

Daily Dose of Hope March 12, 2026   Scripture: Romans 6   Prayer:   Almighty God and Risen Lord, King of Kings and Lord of Lords, We come before you today with praise and a sense of awe.  You are amazing.  You offer new life.  And yet, we still struggle to keep focus on you.  Help us gather our scattered and distracted thoughts.  Help us take a moment of silence and remember who you are...Holy Spirit, speak to us today.  We want to hear your voice.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently working our way through Paul's letters chronologically.  We are now in our sixth pastoral letter, the book of Romans.   Today's reading is Romans 6.  In this chapter, Paul discusses why we should no longer sin once we have become believers of Jesus.  In the previous chapters, he has talked about how we are no longer under the law.  That's true.  We are saved and our sins are forgiven.  That's also true.  But that doesn't mean we should start acting like fools.  Rather, the standard is higher.   Paul also considers sin to be an enslaving power.  I'm not sure we really think about it that way.  I typically think of sin as brokenness or a separation between myself and God.  But Paul sees it as something much deeper – it's a power that is actually fighting for control of all creation.    Humans are enslaved to sin.  And slaves don't typically have any control over their bodies.  They are forced into labor, they are punished at will, and they can be assaulted without any kind of recourse.  To be enslaved is to have every part of you controlled by another.  If humans are enslaved to sin, then the only thing that has mastery over this slavery is Jesus Christ's death and resurrection.    Paul explains that when someone accepts Jesus, they experience a spiritual death to sin.  They then also experience a rebirth.  They become new people in Jesus.  As new people in Jesus, we are no longer slaves to sin, as our old selves were crucified.  Sin is no longer our master.  It no longer has the same hold on us.  That being said, we still have a daily choice to make.  We are still human and sin is still tempting.  But we make a choice to live righteously.    Think about your own temptations.  What daily choices do you make because you now live for Jesus?  How have your own daily choices changed as you have grown in your walk with Jesus Christ?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope March 11, 2026   Scripture: Romans 5   Prayer:   Holy God, How amazing it is that we can come before you today.  You are God of all things, Lord of everything, and yet you care about each of us.  We give you glory and praise.  We thank you most of all for Jesus, who made it possible for us to walk hand in hand with a holy God.  Help us see today's Scripture through fresh eyes.  Keep teaching us, Lord.  Continue to reveal yourself to us.  We are open and grateful.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently working our way through Paul's letters chronologically.  We are now in our sixth pastoral letter, the book of Romans.   Today's reading is Romans 5.  In this chapter, Paul explores the origin of sin in a unique way.  He speaks of Adam, through which sin entered the world.  If you are familiar with the study of the spread of disease (called epidemiology), then you have probably heard of patient zero.  Patient zero is the first person who brings a specific disease into an area.  To find this person, the epidemiologists trace the outbreak through all sorts of people, interviewing, contact tracing, digging, and digging some more to find out where the disease began.   Adam was patient zero for sin.  It was through Adam that sin came into play.  After that, all humans were "infected" with sin.  There was no way not to be infected. The world was no longer a lovely, perfect place like the Garden of Eden.  The world was now broken, filled with hardship, disease, and death.    But if Adam brought us sin and death, Jesus brings us life.  Jesus died for us while we were still sinners.  Through Jesus, we can be reconciled to a holy God.  We can do life, walking hand in hand with God–no walls, no barriers, and no shame.  Jesus has removed anything preventing us from accessing God.  You see, when he died on the cross, the blood of Jesus atoned for the sins of all humanity for all time.  He cleansed us from sin and gave us his righteousness.   What is righteousness?  That's a word that Paul uses an awful lot.  Righteousness is the quality of being morally right, virtuous, and just.  Jesus is totally righteous and we aren't!  But through the cross, in the act of cleansing us from sin, Jesus imputed (gave) his righteousness to us.  We are made righteous by Jesus.  Now, God doesn't see our messed up, broken lives–he sees that which Jesus has freely gifted us.  In Jesus, we are saved and made righteous.  And as Jesus continues to work within us, let's hope that the righteousness of Jesus really takes root in a different way.  As we seek to grow closer to Jesus, may the righteousness, the virtuousness, the justice, and the love of Christ grow within us and make us better reflections of him.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki                

Daily Dose of Hope March 10, 2026   Scripture: Romans 4   Prayer:  Almighty Father, You always know what is best for us.  Thank you for that.  We are sorry for the ways that we resist.  Help us to want what you want for us.  Help us to want to be patient, to want to be kind, to want to be obedient.  Conform our will, Lord, In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently working our way through Paul's letters chronologically.  Just for review, we have read Galatians, I and II Thessalonians, I and II Corinthians, and now we are in Romans.    Today's reading is Romans 4.  This is an interesting chapter.  Paul clearly wants his Jewish listeners to know that justification by faith is not a new concept, but there is actually a precedent in the Old Testament.  Likewise, he wants his Gentile listeners to know that they have a rich spiritual heritage when they believe in Jesus, as the Old Testament attests to this salvation.  Paul highlights Abraham and David, two great men of faith, to demonstrate that even under the old covenant, people were saved by faith rather than by works.   Paul discusses Abraham's faith. Abraham believed, against all hope and even though it was a crazy thought, that he would become a father in his old age and even become the father of many nations.  Sarah was something like 100 years old.  This was not a reasonable thing to believe!  Despite some mishaps along the way (think Hagar and Ishmael), Abraham had faith that God would do what God said he would do.  It was Abraham's faith, rather than his adherence to the law (works), that God credited him as righteous.    It is also our faith, specifically our faith in Jesus Christ and belief that he died for our sins and was resurrected, that God credits us as righteous.  To be righteous means to be in right standing with God.  Let's be clear.  We are not righteous at all on our own merit.  Rather, because of Jesus, we are credited as righteous.  We essentially get to hang on Jesus' righteousness coattails, and I am so very glad for it!   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Daily Dose of Hope March 9, 2026   Scripture:  Romans 3   Prayer:  Everlasting Father, We thank you that you are a God of hope.  You are a God who keeps his promises.  You are a God who always has our best interest in mind.  Forgive us for those times that we want things to go the way we want things to go.  Fill us with your wisdom and discernment.  Help us try to think about things from a more eternal perspective.  How difficult that is for us!  Lord, we submit to you our lives, our families, our jobs, our burdens, our physical bodies.  We give them to you and we trust you.  In Your Name, Amen. Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading.  My prayer for each of you is that as we move through this season of Lent, you will make plenty of time to read, interpret, and pray over the Scripture.  What is God teaching you through Paul's letters?  We have now reached Romans, which I think is fascinating but one of the most difficult of Paul's letters to understand.  I would love to hear your thoughts.  What is God teaching you?  What are you gleaning?   Today's reading is Romans 3.  Paul continues to discuss the sinfulness of human beings.  No one is righteous, no matter one's religious upbringing (Jew vs. non-Jew), occupation, or station in life; every single person is a sinner.  It sounds a bit hopeless but Paul is leading up to something very important.  Yes, all people are sinners and all people fall short of God's standard BUT we can be saved through the gift of grace that comes with believing in Jesus Christ.  It's pretty incredible really.  We are all a broken mess.  We are born inclined to sin and this sinfulness creates a barrier between God and us.  But Jesus' sacrifice on the cross atoned for our sins.    What in the world does that mean?  When Jesus died on the cross, our sins and the sins of all humanity died up there with him.  If you think back to the Old Testament sacrificial system, the priests would sacrifice animals to atone for the sins of the people and the community.  And the people could not sacrifice their sick and lame animals, only the strong, healthy ones.  They needed to feel the sacrifice.  And then, the animal's blood was shed to demonstrate that sin has consequences.  It wasn't pretty at all but it wasn't supposed to be.  Now, Jesus is the final, perfect sacrifice.  It was his blood that was shed to atone for the sins of all people, for all time.    Let's go just a little deeper here.  As God himself, Jesus was holy and totally without sin.  He gave his life to be the sacrifice to end all sacrifices.  His death on the cross created a bridge between God and us.  No more barrier.  If we have said yes to Jesus, then when God looks at us, he doesn't see our sinfulness but rather Jesus' sacrifice.  The blood of Jesus essentially covers us or atones for us.   Now, because of Jesus' sacrifice, we are free to walk hand in hand with a holy God.  And we did nothing to earn this or deserve it.  As Paul writes, it was a gift of grace.  Grace is God's unmerited, amazing love that is freely given to all those who believe.    How have you experienced God's grace?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Daily Dose of Hope March 6, 2026   Scripture:  Romans 2   Prayer:  Holy God, We come before you today rejoicing in your powerful name.  Thank you for who you are and all you do.  Thank you for loving us.  Help us gather our scattered thoughts, help us set aside distractions, and truly focus on you right now.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, we want to hear your voice...In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently journeying through Paul's letters.  We are now in our sixth pastoral letter, the book of Romans.   Today's reading is Romans 2.  Through the end of chapter one and most of chapter two, Paul points out the sinfulness of humanity and the righteousness of God.  Whether Jew or Gentile, each person will have a day of reckoning, in which they will stand before God.    But then, Paul's words take a turn as they are directed specifically at Jewish listeners.  He doesn't mince words.  The Jewish audience may think they are better than the Gentiles because of circumcision and the law, but truly actions speak louder than words.  What good is the law if they don't obey it?  Paul accuses the Jews of judging the Gentiles for not doing things "right" but really they should be judging themselves.  Their faith was superficial and all about outward appearances, so they look good in front of other human beings, not God.   What God values is the work of the Spirit in our hearts.  What's going on in your heart right now?  Unfortunately, it is too easy for us to make faith about a list of things that make us look good to others: attending church regularly, serving and volunteering, being part of a small group or Bible study, making moral choices, being a good person, you get the idea.  But if our heart isn't right with God, all those good things are worthless.  What God values is the work of the Spirit in our hearts.  And God knows what's there – he can see through us right to the core.    When God looks at your heart, what does he find?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Daily Dose of Hope March 5, 2026   Scripture:  Romans 1   Prayer:  Almighty God, Thank you for a new day and a new chance to give you glory and praise.  You are an amazing God.  How incredible it is that you, who created everything, know my name.  You know every hair on my head.  While I am so grateful for your love and care, it is sometimes difficult for me to adequately wrap my brain around your expansive love and mercy.  Help me be a better reflection of you, Lord.  Help me see others through your eyes.  Help me be merciful, kind, and good.  Lord, I know I fall short.  So often.  But I want to do better.  In these next few moments of silence, Jesus, hear my prayer...  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently journeying through Paul's letters.  We just finished our fourth letter (2 Corinthians) and today we are beginning Romans. Today's reading is Romans 1.  Romans is probably one of the most impactful books of the Bible.  Much of our Christian doctrine is rooted in this book.  My own experience in Romans is that sometimes I need to read a chapter more than once to understand its meaning.  Don't be discouraged if that is the case for you too.  Pray that the Holy Spirit will guide your reading and reveal what God wants you to know in each chapter.  Romans is written in the form a letter.  Paul starts by identifying himself: he is a servant of Christ, an apostle, and one who is set apart for the Gospel.  He is writing to a church in Rome that he did not establish and has not yet visited.  He wants to be clear from the beginning who he is and what he believes.  He is clear that the purpose of his writing is Jesus.  Really, it's all about Jesus Christ, and we will see that theme woven throughout the entirety of Romans.  It's certainly a good reminder for us–it is simply all about Jesus. We get quite distracted but Jesus is what matters. In the middle of the chapter, Paul is clear about his purpose - sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. Take a look at some of the statements that Paul makes: -I am obligated to both Greeks and non-Greeks, to those who are wise and foolish. -I am eager to preach the Gospel to those in Rome. -I am not ashamed of the Gospel. Paul knows who and whose he is and that defines every other aspect of his life.  He is a person sent to share the Good News to all people, he is looking forward to preaching Jesus to the people of Rome, and he is totally unashamed, unembarrassed, and ready to be a minister of the Gospel.  What are your thoughts about this?  We live in a time and culture in which people are hesitant to share their faith, worried about people's reactions, and content to just leave things be.  Paul was anything but content.  He felt obligated, eager, and totally unashamed!  Spend some time in prayer asking God to speak to you, specifically what God wants you to learn from Paul and our new study of Romans.  Ask God to open your heart and mind to new concepts and challenges. Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope February 23, 2026   Scripture: 2 Corinthians 6   Prayer: Abba Father, We come to you today in awe of your love for us.  Thank you, Lord, for your sacrifice.  Thank you for sitting high and looking low.  We give you all the glory and praise, Lord Jesus.  Help us to be less selfish and more like you.  On our own, we mess it up.  We need you, Jesus.  We need you minute by minute.  Guide our thoughts today, Lord.  Guide our words and guide our actions.  May we look more like you today, Lord, than we did yesterday.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently journeying through Paul's pastoral letters chronologically.  We are now in the middle of 2 Corinthians.   Today's reading is 2 Corinthians 6.  Paul wants the Corinthians to know that there are boundaries surrounding the behaviors of the covenant community. As we have discussed in previous chapters, most of Corinth consisted of individuals who worshipped multiple gods; idolatry and sexual immorality were a part of the pagan existence. Now, people are coming to know Jesus and entering the Corinthian church.  This requires a huge shift in thinking about what is acceptable. Paul continues to teach that while they have freedom in Christ, that is not an excuse for behavior that displeases God. They are called to holiness.   It is from that place that Paul tells the Corinthian believers not to be yoked with unbelievers. A yoke refers to the wooden crosspiece that was fastened over the necks of two oxen and attached to a plow or cart that they are to pull. When one animal is yoked to another, generally the stronger animal can help make up for the inadequacies of the weaker animal. Think about Jesus' words in Matthew 11:28-30, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." When we are yoked together with Jesus, he helps lighten our load and provides rest for our souls.   But Paul is saying not to be yoked with those who are not Christ-followers. As in the reference from Matthew, being yoked with someone suggests a close, almost intimate relationship. Do not yoke yourself with someone whose values, attitudes, and behaviors are fundamentally different from your own. Paul is referencing marriage but also other relationships. Do not bind yourself to people who have a worldview that is opposed to your own.   I want to be clear; Paul is not saying that Christians aren't to associate with unbelievers.  Frequently, Paul encourages believers to eat with those who don't yet believe and build relationships with those who need to know the hope of Christ. But having an unbelieving friend or acquaintance is totally different from an unbelieving spouse, business partner, or bestie. Set your boundaries.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope February 20, 2026   Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5   Prayer:  Almighty God, As we move into our Friday, we pray that today will be a day that we see glimpses of your glory.  We need you, we yearn for you.  Lord, help us set aside our distractions and settle our scattered thoughts so we can focus on you and you alone.  In the next few moments of silence, Lord, hear our prayers... In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We have been journeying through Paul's New Testament letters.  I don't know about you, but its been great to learn more about Paul's relationship with his churches.  There is so much substance here.  Currently, we are in 2 Corinthians.   Today's reading is 2 Corinthians 5.  In the first ten verses of the chapter, Paul is tackling the difficult topic of what happens to us when we die. In Paul's culture (as in ours), there was fascination but also fear regarding the end of physical life. This piece of Scripture discusses the future resurrection and transformation of believers and the certainty of being with Jesus after death. We can be assured of this based on God placing the Spirit within us (Paul calls it a deposit). The Holy Spirit offers us assurance of salvation and that this earthly life is not the end.   Now, let's take a moment and talk about verse 17, one of my favorite verses of Scripture. Paul starts with the statement, "Therefore..." because the previous statement pointed out that Christ is no longer viewed from a human perspective, as he is God. Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior and his life, death, and resurrection form this radical, fundamental breakthrough for all creation. Because of this, things are different. God's Kingdom has been inaugurated and a new way of doing life is here. So, if someone is in Christ, meaning they have accepted Jesus and are united with a life-giving Savior, then this new way of living and being has started. They are no longer the same person. They are being transformed from the inside out by the power of the Spirit of God. The old person, the "pre-Jesus" life, is in the past. They now do life differently - new attitudes, new behaviors, new ways of thinking-focused on the ways of Jesus rather than the ways of the world   I want to add that becoming a new person is a choice. Others call it a process. It's both really. Becoming the person that God created us to be in Jesus Christ is not going to simply happen by accident. We participate in the process. The Holy Spirit works in us and we cooperate with God in the transformation. What has your "becoming a new creation" process looked like? None of us have arrived either. What are the places in your life in which God may be still calling you to change to look more like Jesus?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope February 18, 2026   Scripture: 2 Corinthians 3   Prayer:  Holy God, We are weary.  We are tired.  We need you.  You are great and mighty.  You are merciful and loving.  How we need that right now!  Lord, speak to us today.  We need to hear your voice.  We pray that your voice will be louder and clearer than all the other voices that crowd our thoughts.  Lord, in these next few moments of silence, please speak to us...  God, we give you all the glory.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  Happy Ash Wednesday.  If you live in the greater Brandon, Florida, area, I invite you to attend the New Hope Church Ash Wednesday service at 6:30pm in Logan Hall.  There will be meaningful worship, a brief message, and the imposition of ashes.   For our devotional, we are currently journeying through Paul's letters.  We have just started our fifth pastoral letter, 2 Corinthians.  Today, we are taking a look at chapter 3.  In the beginning of the chapter, Paul is explaining why he doesn't need letters of recommendation. Apparently, this was a common practice to provide letters that verified the authenticity of an apostle or leader. Paul mentions providing them in some of his other epistles but does not feel the need to have them for the church at Corinth. After all, he founded the Corinthian church so they should be well aware of his gifts and skills as an apostle. This whole discussion gives us a bigger picture of what Paul is dealing with-people are challenging his credentials and leadership. This must have been very distressing for Paul, who put so much love and self-sacrifice into his churches.   Paul then moves on to a discussion about boldness and spiritual blindness. He can be bold because there is no veil separating him from God. Remember, Moses had to pull a veil over his face when he went to speak with God to protect himself and the Israelites from God's powerful glory. It also reminds me of another veil-the curtain that separated the priest from the holiest of holies in the temple, where God's presence dwelt. Under the Old Covenant, there were many veils which served to protect people from God's power and glory. While it was for their protection, it was also a physical and spiritual separation.   Paul makes the point that even then, while the veil was technically gone, the Jews still behaved as if it was there; they experienced a spiritual blindness of sorts. But in Christ, there is freedom. There doesn't have to be separation from God or blind adherence to the Old Covenant. Christ introduced a new way of doing life, where the veil is gone, and we can now contemplate God's glory. In fact, through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can day by day be transformed into his likeness.   Verse 18 really resonates with me today. "...we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory..." This is sanctification. The more we grow in our walk with Jesus, the more we experience his grace and look more and more like him.   A question: do you look more like Jesus today than you did five years ago? Why or why not? What do you want to look like five years from now?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope February 17, 2026   Scripture: 2 Corinthians 2   Prayer: Lord God Almighty, You have given us everything.  Not only did you create the world, but you created us.  Everything we have is a gift from you.  Forgive us for when we begin to think that things are "ours."  Soften our hearts.  Help us become more generous.  Lord, I give you my whole self.  I want to offer myself as a living sacrifice; may I be pleasing in your sight.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We are currently journeying through Paul's letters.  We have just started our fifth pastoral letter, 2 Corinthians. Today, we are taking a look at chapter 2.  In this chapter, Paul explains the reason he delayed his return to Corinth from Macedonia. His first visit had ended poorly. An influential man in Corinth had challenged Paul's apostolic authority.  This man said Paul had no credibility from Jesus.  So Paul left. He knew that if he returned as originally scheduled, it would create another difficult visit.  Paul really wanted to protect the church but he also needed to deal with this conflict. He sent a letter instead. This also created discord in the church.  Not only were they upset with the tone of the letter but they were upset that Timothy rather than Paul delivered it.  But Paul stayed away until he saw how things placed out.  Eventually, the church sided with Paul. They decide that the man who opposed Paul committed a grave sin. The church punished him, and he repented.  Some scholars suggest the term used here might be better interpreted as saying the church "reprimanded" the man. Paul urges them to end the punishment, to forgive and comfort the man, and to reaffirm their love for him. Paul insists that forgiveness must happen in each direction in order to keep them from being tricked by Satan.  Let's think about this – how might the enemy use unforgiveness to gain a foothold in our churches? Paul also wants to assure the church of his deep love for them and their dependence on one another. He isn't the kind of leader who lords authority over them. Rather, they belong to each other. He is their coworker in the movement of the Gospel. Are you aware that as the body of Jesus Christ, we all belong to God but we also belong to each other? Our work in the Lord is dependent on one another. We need one another. We are not independent contractors for Jesus out there on our own trying to share the Good News. Rather, we are all in this together, helping and supporting each other, praying for one another, and encouraging each other in our work. Blessings, Pastor Vicki        

Daily Dose of Hope February 16, 2026   Scripture:  2 Corinthians 1   Prayer:  Dear Heavenly Father, We are so grateful that your mercies are new every single morning.  No matter what our week or weekend has been like, we can come to you today afresh and anew.  Lord, forgive us for our many failings.  We want to do better.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, hear our prayers...In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that goes along with the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We have been journeying through Paul's letters.  On Friday, we completed our fourth pastoral letter and today we begin our fifth, 2 Corinthians. While 2 Corinthians is the second letter we have that Paul wrote to Corinth, there are hints in the text about other letters (at least one); most likely got lost so we don't have access to them.  Paul established the church at Corinth on his second missionary journey and you can refresh your memory on that in Acts 18.  After he leaves Corinth, it doesn't take long for him to hear rumors that things are going south there.  That's when he writes I Corinthians.  Just to review, in I Corinthians, Paul provides a strong rebuke of the Corinthians about their worldly aspirations, their arrogance, and their shallow view of Christian leadership. This didn't serve to endear Paul to the influencers in the Corinthian church.  In fact, they got really mad.  Many in the church rejected his teachings and his authority.  Thus, Paul visited them personally in what he called his painful visit.  He references it in the very first verse of 2 Corinthians 2 (we will read I tomorrow).  He was addressing head-on the conflict and immorality in the church.  After that, he wrote a second letter, which I mentioned earlier, and Paul references that a few times in chapter 2.   Apparently, after the visit and letter, many of the Corinthians were repentant and felt terrible about what happened to Paul and the way he was treated.  2 Corinthians (likely his third letter) is Paul's response to those feelings.  He wants to reassure the people and restore his relationship with the church while also offering them wise counsel and not back down from previous statements. In today's Scripture, Paul is reminding the Corinthians of God's faithful promises. God has anointed us and put his seal on us. From antiquity to present times, a seal indicates ownership. Our bodies are not our own but belong to God. And God has put his Holy Spirit within our hearts as a deposit, or a guarantee, of what is to come. The promise is that we will be with Jesus at the resurrection and that we will continue to be made into his likeness in the meantime. How do we know that the Holy Spirit is living within us? How do we know that we belong to God? Think back to your own childhood. How did you know that you belonged to your earthly parents? Besides having the same name, there is an awareness and even a confidence that they are your parents and you are their child. This is obviously an imperfect example because while some earthly parents are responsible, protective, and loving, others are not. But we can know that God our Father is faithful, trustworthy, protective, and loving. Do you know that God is your Father?  And, do you know that the Holy Spirit is within you?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

We are more connected than ever, yet loneliness continues to rise. In this deeply honest conversation, Keith Spurgin shares why visibility is not the same as being known, how disconnection silently shapes our identity, and what it takes to move relationships from lifeless to vibrant.Keith opens up about his own journey from internal disconnection to meaningful connection, revealing the subtle ways we tolerate relational emptiness while our souls quietly starve. Together, we explore leadership, vulnerability, emotional health, and why relational fitness matters just as much as physical fitness.This episode is an invitation to slow down, tell the truth, and take the small courageous steps that lead to genuine connection.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Connection and Disconnection04:24 Understanding the Nature of Disconnection09:18 The Illusion of Digital Connection11:56 The Importance of Self-Leadership16:23 Signs of a Dying Relationship21:31 Tolerating Toxic Behaviors26:42 Personal Journey of Disconnection33:16 The Impact of Relational Health38:12 Creating Authentic Connections in Families and Churches42:40 Practical Steps to Build Connections45:59 Living a Truly Connected LifeEpisode TakeawaysWe are more technologically connected than ever, yet more relationally disconnectedReal relationships require risk, honesty, and vulnerabilityPeople admire accomplishments but connect through shared strugglesTolerating emotional neglect quietly erodes the soulPain often becomes the doorway to transformationThe quality of life is directly tied to the quality of relationshipsForgiveness is essential for healing and reconnectionAuthentic leadership creates space for authentic relationshipsAbout Keith SpurginKeith Spurgin is an author, international speaker, leadership coach, and President of Growth Resourcing Group, an organisation dedicated to helping leaders, pastors, and business owners lead with clarity, courage, and connection.He is the founder of New Hope Church in Wylie, Texas, and the author of Unknown: Finding Connection in a Disconnected World. Keith is passionate about long term relationship building, transformational leadership, and helping people experience meaningful connection in every area of life.Website: https://keithspurgin.netYour transformation begins the moment you decide to look within.Let this book walk with you.

Daily Dose of Hope February 11, 2026   Scripture:  I Corinthians 14   Prayer:   Almighty God, Thank you for a new day and a new chance to give you glory and praise.  You are an amazing God.  How incredible it is that you, who created everything, know my name.  You know every hair on my head.  While I am so grateful for your love and care, it is sometimes difficult for me to adequately wrap my brain around your expansive love and mercy.  Help me be a better reflection of you, Lord.  Help me see others through your eyes.  Help me be merciful, kind, and good.  Lord, I know I fall short.  So often.  But I want to do better.  In these next few moments of silence, Jesus, hear my prayer...  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are journeying through Paul's letter in the New Testament.  We are currently on our fourth pastoral letter, I Corinthians.   Our reading for today was I Corinthians 14.  This chapter is all about order in worship.  A lot of the text has to do with the speaking of tongues. I want to be clear that Paul is not against speaking in tongues.  However, he is clear that tongues benefit the speaker more than the listener. Prophecy, on the other hand, benefits the listeners. This is a passage often taken out of context. Yes, tongues are a gift of the Spirit and for many people, tongues provide an intimate way to communicate with God. But within the context of worship, tongues (spoken publicly) are appropriate only if there is an interpreter. According to Paul, the question to always ask is "Does this build up the body of Christ?"   Speaking of taking passages out of context, the second half of this chapter about good order in worship has been misused by many. Is Paul saying that women need to always be silent in church? No, he isn't, as he is supportive of women's participation in worship in other passages. Just a few chapters before this, in I Corinthians 11:5, Paul mentioned women praying and prophesying aloud in worship.   What does he mean in today's text? Keep in mind, this is a pastoral letter that is addressing a specific situation in a specific place. Corinth was a wild, out of control place. These women have grown up being influenced by this environment. Don't get me wrong, the Greek and Roman world was still highly patriarchal and women had little if any rights or privileges. But in the church, women were valued and had a certain degree of freedom. They could learn, speak, pray, and work alongside the men in many ways. Most likely, in this situation, there was confusion and disorder in the church worship and Paul needed to address it. The Greek word used in the text for speak actually is better translated "chattering." Most likely, these women were interrupting worship with their constant chattering. Maybe they were asking questions. Maybe they were talking amongst themselves. We really don't know.   This leads to an important point. We cannot pick certain Scripture verses and pull them out of their contexts, trying to force an application today. What's important is to look at what the whole Biblical narrative says about a certain topic. Does the whole Biblical narrative insist women be silent in worship OR do we see women lifted up by Jesus, involved in the ministry of the early church, and working as effective prophets, leaders, and teachers (often praised by Paul)? When one or two verses seem out of place, contradicting the rest of the Biblical narrative, then there is probably a deeper meaning behind them. The key is go deeper, study, learn the context and background, and try to discern the author's original intention.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

In which the Federals swing away from the railroad, out into the north Georgia countryside, and there are sharp fights at New Hope Church and Pickett's Mill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices