Podcasts about niv ephesians

Matthew 18:6 (NIV)Ephesians 6:4 (Voice, TPT)Proverbs 22:6 (NIV, Message, Voice, AMP, TPT)Proverbs 20:7 (AMP, TPT)Proverbs 23:24 (AMP, TPT)

"Persistent Prayer"Luke 18:1-8Kyle Van DykeJune 1, 2025NEW KIDS SPACE NOW OPEN!We have expanded with 3x more space for the babies, kids, and youth in your family. https://www.instagram.com/oasischurchva/reel/C8FqHIipr3u/How should Christians think about politics? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak82aD16r04Learn about this year's Kingdom Builder's project: https://www.oasischurch.online/kingdom-buildersOUR NEW VISION STATEMENT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0WFhtL7h3ISERMON NOTES:- Persistent Prayer- Luke 18:1-8 (NIV)- 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NIV)- Romans 12:12 (NIV)- Matthew 7:7 (NIV)- Ephesians 6:18 (NIV)- Colossians 4:2 (NIV)- Verse 1 - The Why- Why do we lose heart in prayer?    1. Prayer is hard work.    2. We are directed away from genuine prayer.    3. We are not always convinced of the reality of the power of prayer.- Verse 2 and 3 - The Characters- The Judge    Unjust    No fear of God    No regard for people- The widow:    Powerless    Persistent    Bold- Verse 4 and 5 - The Appeal- Persistence in prayer reflects faith, not frustration.- “How many times we ask of God and have not because we do not wait long enough at the door? We knock a time or two at the gate of Mercy and as no friendly messenger opens the door, we go our ways. Too many prayers are like boys' runaway knocks—given and then the giver is away before the door can be opened.” (Spurgeon)- Verse 6 and 7 - The Contrast- God:    Attentive    Powerful    Just- Jesus uses the formula of “How Much More”.- Verse 8 - The Warning- Jesus ties persistence in prayer to genuine faith.- When we persist in prayer we become petitioners of righteousness, not merely shoppers of blessings.Oasis Church exists to Worship God, Equip the believers, and Reach the lost.We are led by Pastor Nate Clarke and are located in Henrico north of Richmond, VA.STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/oasischurchva/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OasisChurchRVA/Website: https://oasischurch.onlineOasis Church exists to Worship God, Equip the believers, and Reach the lost.We are led by Pastor Nate Clarke and are located in Richmond, VA.Stay Connected:Website: https://oasischurch.online Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oasischurchva/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OasisChurchRVA/

Bible Reading: Ephesians 3:14-21Mariah was glad to finally be back home. Her mom had wanted to get her and her twin brothers away from the house while a landscaper was working in their backyard, and they had spent the whole day just trying to kill time.She was helping her little brother out of their van when she heard her mom let out a shriek. She scooped Reggie into her arms and took off for the backyard."Are you okay?" Mariah ran to her mom's side. She was pretty sure she saw tears in her mom's eyes. "What happened? Did you get stung?" She could hear a bee buzzing.Mom shook her head. "Nothing bad happened. I'm just…I'm really surprised at what I see. Everything is so beautiful."Mariah looked out at the yard as her brother squirmed out of her arms. There were flowers everywhere, and there were tiny stones on the ground, making paths that the twins seemed excited to try out. Everything did look really nice."I can't believe they did all this," Mom said. "We didn't have a lot of money to spend, but they seemed to figure out a way to make my dreams come true anyway.""You're crying." Mariah looked up at her mom."I'm happy," Mom said. "If I have tears, it's because I didn't know I could have a yard this beautiful."Mariah smiled. "Pastor John was talking about something like this on Sunday. He said God does more than we ask Him to do, surprising us with the way He works and all that He accomplishes."Mom nodded. "God did more than we could ever imagine when He sent His own Son to save us by dying for our sins, and He blesses us in other ways that go beyond anything we could even think to ask for. The team we had working out here did a good job of showing us what that can look like.""I'm happy the yard is everything you wanted it to be." Mariah wrapped her arms around her mom. They had been through some tough times together, and she really wanted her mom to be happy. "And I'm glad God loves us and promises to do great things for us too."–Emily AckerHow About You?Have you ever been surprised by a gift someone gave you? Has someone ever done something so special for you that you just couldn't believe it? That's the way God blesses His children. When He promised us a Savior, He fulfilled that promise by sending us His own Son, Jesus. He is working in your life and promises to do big things for you--more than you could ever imagine.Today's Key Verse:Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us. (NIV) (Ephesians 3:20)Today's Key Thought:God surprises us with more

Bible Reading: Psalm 133"You chose last time!" yelled Jill."I did not!" said Kelsey. "You did!" "I guess I remember better than you." Jill stomped over to the back porch and sat down. She and Kelsey were cousins, but they didn't always get along very well.Jill's brother Theo came out and sat down next to her. "What's going on?" he asked. "Another argument?""Kelsey is so bossy," said Jill. "She never wants to do what I want to do." She frowned as she glanced at Kelsey, who was walking toward the swing set. Just then a line of wild geese, honking loudly, flew high overhead."I wonder what their problem is. They sound terrible!" said Theo. "Maybe one of them wanted to be the boss and butted its way to the front of the line.""Don't they take turns being the leader?" asked Jill."They're supposed to," said Theo. "But maybe one of them was counting the number of times he had been the leader and decided he wasn't getting his fair share of turns. So he tried to make them do things his way, and now all the other geese are honking at him." He grinned at his sister. "Silly goose." They watched as the long line of geese separated into four lines, then merged into two. The honking became a bit quieter, and finally the two lines formed into one long V. "I wonder which one got them to stop honking and work together peacefully," said Theo. "It takes a real leader to get others to work well together. And it's not about always doing things your way, but putting others before yourself. That's the kind of leader Jesus was. Even though He's King over everything, He became a servant and died for our sins--because that's the only way we could have peace with God." Jill looked over to where Kelsey was swinging. That's what I want to be--a leader, she thought. Not a silly goose.She jumped up and walked over to the swing set. "Okay, Kelsey," she said. "You can decide this time." She smiled at her cousin. "Let's stop honking at each other." –Lois A. WitmerHow About You?Do you always want others to do things your way? Do you try to take charge by fighting and forcing everybody else to do what you want? That's not the kind of leader Jesus was. He put others ahead of Himself by sacrificing His life to bring us peace, and He wants us to live in peace with each other. Help others live in peace by doing what's best for everyone, not just yourself. That's the mark of a true leader. Today's Key Verse:Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:3)Today's Key Thought:Learn to get along with others

Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:32-5Wyatt called to Mom as he raced down the stairs and toward the back door. "I'm heading out to my garden to weed." Wyatt had his own garden in the backyard and was looking forward to caring for his plants.Mom stuck her head out of the kitchen. "Can you take William with you, please? He's been wanting to go outside all day."Wyatt sighed. Taking William with him would make tending his garden go much slower with all the questions he would ask. Wyatt was tempted to complain, but thought better of it. Mom needed to take care of baby Rose since she was teething and feeling miserable. Besides, William could be cute sometimes. "William," Wyatt said, "do you want to come with me to the garden?""Yes!" William shrieked with delight. "Will you help me put on my shoes? Why do we have to go to the garden? What are we going to do there?"Wyatt sighed but smiled as he kneeled down to buckle William's sandals. "We need to go to the garden to pull weeds and care for the plants." William paused a moment, but soon thought of more questions. "How do we care for plants? Why do we pull weeds?" Wyatt continued to answer William's questions as they headed outside. "We care for the plants by checking to see what they need. They may need water or extra support. If we don't pull the weeds, the plants won't have room to grow." He knew there would be many more questions before the day was done. Mom and Dad had told him that asking questions was how William learned and that answering them kindly and carefully helped him grow and showed him God's love. The kind of love Jesus shows us, Wyatt thought. Love that is always patient as He helps us learn and grow.While William paused to chase a butterfly, Wyatt realized something. Showing patience and kindness to William wasn't that different from taking care of his plants. He decided he would keep tending William and do what was needed to help him grow.–Myrical Barton How About You?Do you get impatient when younger kids ask lots of questions? Does it annoy you when friends or classmates don't understand something? Remember that Jesus is patient and loving toward you and that you show His love to others by treating them the same way. Be patient with others and do all you can to help them grow.Today's Key Verse:Be patient, bearing with one another in love. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:2)Today's Key Thought:Be patient and help others grow

Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:10-17"What are you doing, Thomas?" William stared at his little brother in shock. "Mom, come quick!"Mom came running into the room. "Who got hurt?" she asked, then frowned. "Thomas, why in the world are you standing on a Bible?" Thomas grinned. "We learned about it in Sunday school today. The Bible is God's Word, and we're supposed to stand on it!" He thrust his hand into the air. William began to laugh. "Thomas, you're not supposed to actually stand on the Bible. That's just a fancy way to talk."Now Mom laughed. "You mean a figure of speech?" "Yeah, that," William agreed, eyeing the Bible. "We aren't supposed to stand on the Bible, we're supposed to read it." "Then why do we sing about standing on it?" Thomas stepped onto the floor, looking confused. "Standing on the Bible means standing firm in its truth." Mom picked up the Bible and flipped to Ephesians 6. "Sometimes people explain ideas using things we're familiar with to help us understand. The armor of God is a good example. Is the armor of God actual armor that you need to buckle and fasten?"Thomas shook his head. "No, but that would be cool. I could be like a knight!""Ephesians 6:10 tells us to be strong in the Lord," continued Mom. "The devil tries to get us to doubt God's goodness and His promises in the Bible and give in to sinful temptations. Standing firm means remembering that God is so good that He sent His Son to die on the cross for our sins and that Jesus gives us the strength to resist temptation. It means trusting that Jesus's sacrifice saves us from sin completely and being confident in God's endless love for us. As we learn what the Bible says about Jesus and embrace its truth, it helps us stand firm against the devil's tricks.""So, instead of standing on the Bible, we want the Bible inside us?" asked Thomas.William frowned. "What? You don't eat the Bible either!" "Memorizing means the verses are stuck inside my brain," Thomas explained. "So, if the Bible is stuck inside my brain, then I can stand on its truth!" Thomas threw his fist into the air again, making both Mom and William laugh. –Kimberly BrokishHow About You?Are you standing firm in the truth of God's Word? Satan is very tricky, and he wants all of us to sin and doubt God. But the Bible tells us the truth about God's goodness and His love for us. It tells us how we have the power to resist sin through Jesus. By reading God's Word, memorizing it, and learning about it with others, we can equip ourselves to stand firm against the devil's lies by remembering the strength we have in Jesus. Today's Key Verse:Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground. (NIV) (Ephesians 6:13)Today's Key Thought:Stand firm in God's Word

What does "Dominion" really mean? The dictionary defines it as "sovereignty or control" but as Christians what does that mean for us? Well, God gave dominion to us as Christians to not walk around this Earth with our tail tucked between our legs, but to enforce our God given dominion in everything we do. We don't have to settle, we don't need to shy away from it, God gave us his authority to walk things out in heaven and on Earth, and that is exactly what this series from pastor Chris is all about, teaching us all about our Dominion in Christ! Welcome to Relevant Church Live, the online campus of Relevant Church located in Daytona Beach, Florida. We pray that through this service you find your place, reveal your purpose, and unlock your potential! We pray this message blesses you and gives you the strength you need to do and be all that God has called you to do and be! Leave a comment below letting us know how this message impacted you today, we'd love to chat with you! #RelevantChurch #Dominion #Power #Authority #PastorChrisSarno #OnlineChurch #RelevantChurchDaytonaBeach #Church #ChurchOnline #RelevantChurchFlorida -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ways to Give: Text to Give: Text your amount to 386-968-1103 Online Giving: Visit our website http://www.relevantfl.org/giving to give via debit, credit, or ACH Mail It In: Send gift Via USPS to 920 Beville Rd. Daytona Beach, FL 32114 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Stay Connected: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @RelevantChurch Relevant Church Website: https://www.relevantfl.org/ Relevant Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevant_fl/ Relevant Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RelevantFL Relevant Church TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relevant_fl?_t=8mNFjdYMYoh&_r=1 Relevant Church App: https://apps.apple.com/app/id1615804850?fbclid=IwAR3aHqo_6kr8Tzd_JK6xihjfJkVk6j7-iqITDj1u1wFicDLn6g6C29gL3LY Rkidz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rkidzfl Relevant Youth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevantflyouth/ Relevant Church Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6nUtPIkecEehfstUWWPIVU?si=QBMEtu85SyuU3FxRM1X7lg&nd=1 Pastor Chris Sarno's Website: https://www.chrissarno.tv/ Chris Sarno App: http://www.chrissarno.tv/app -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Scripture References: Isaiah 45:2-3 (KJV) Luke 10:19 (TPT) Romans 12:1-2 (KJV) Matthew 28:18 (NIV) Romans 5:17 (TPT) Mark 16:17-18 (TPT) Colossians 2:15 (NIV) Ephesians 2:6 (NIV) Proverbs 18:21 (KJV) James 4:7 (KJV) 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunday, February 16th 2025 Pastor Chris Sarno Relevant Church Dominion | Week 3 | Sunday, February 16th 2025 | Pastor Chris Sarno | Relevant Church

What does "Dominion" really mean? The dictionary defines it as "sovereignty or control" but as Christians what does that mean for us? Well, God gave dominion to us as Christians to not walk around this Earth with our tail tucked between our legs, but to enforce our God given dominion in everything we do. We don't have to settle, we don't need to shy away from it, God gave us his authority to walk things out in heaven and on Earth, and that is exactly what this series from pastor Chris is all about, teaching us all about our Dominion in Christ! Welcome to Relevant Church Live, the online campus of Relevant Church located in Daytona Beach, Florida. We pray that through this service you find your place, reveal your purpose, and unlock your potential! We pray this message blesses you and gives you the strength you need to do and be all that God has called you to do and be! Leave a comment below letting us know how this message impacted you today, we'd love to chat with you! #RelevantChurch #Dominion #Power #Authority #PastorChrisSarno #OnlineChurch #RelevantChurchDaytonaBeach #Church #ChurchOnline #RelevantChurchFlorida -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ways to Give: Text to Give: Text your amount to 386-968-1103 Online Giving: Visit our website http://www.relevantfl.org/giving to give via debit, credit, or ACH Mail It In: Send gift Via USPS to 920 Beville Rd. Daytona Beach, FL 32114 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Stay Connected: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @RelevantChurch Relevant Church Website: https://www.relevantfl.org/ Relevant Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevant_fl/ Relevant Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RelevantFL Relevant Church TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relevant_fl?_t=8mNFjdYMYoh&_r=1 Relevant Church App: https://apps.apple.com/app/id1615804850?fbclid=IwAR3aHqo_6kr8Tzd_JK6xihjfJkVk6j7-iqITDj1u1wFicDLn6g6C29gL3LY Rkidz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rkidzfl Relevant Youth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevantflyouth/ Relevant Church Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6nUtPIkecEehfstUWWPIVU?si=QBMEtu85SyuU3FxRM1X7lg&nd=1 Pastor Chris Sarno's Website: https://www.chrissarno.tv/ Chris Sarno App: http://www.chrissarno.tv/app -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Scripture References: Deuteronomy 8:16-18 (KJV) 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV) James 4:7 (KJV) Isaiah 41:10 (KJV) 1 John 4:18 (KJV) Psalms 34:4 (NIV) Joshua 1:9 (KJV) Romans 8:15 (KJV) Luke 18:1-8 (TPT) Philippians 4:6-7 (KJV) 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV) Hebrews 11:1 (NIV) Ephesians 6:16 (KJV) 2 Corinthians 5:7 (KJV) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunday, February 9th 2025 Pastor Chris Sarno Relevant Church Fear Is A Spirit | Dominion | Pastor Chris Sarno Dominion | Week 2 | Sunday, February 9th 2025 | Pastor Chris Sarno | Relevant Church

Bible Reading: Matthew 20:1-16; Ephesians 2:8-9"How was the pizza party?" Mom asked as Addy climbed into the car and buckled her seatbelt. Addy wasn't sure how to answer. She had chosen to give up her lunch recess five days in a row to help pick up litter, pull weeds from the cracked pavement, and spread new wood chips under the monkey bars. Being on the clean-up crew was hard work, but she didn't mind. The playground was looking so much better, and Ms. Chambers, the custodian, had promised the crew a pizza party as a reward."It was good and bad, I guess," Addy said. "Good because I got my favorite--pepperoni with extra cheese. Bad because Henry was there." "Henry was on the clean-up crew?" Mom's face looked surprised in the rearview mirror. Addy nodded. "But he was late every day and mostly just goofed around. Henry didn't work nearly as hard as the rest of us. I don't understand why he got to come to the party." "That reminds me of a story Jesus told about some workers who were hired to clear a field," Mom said. "Some of them started at nine in the morning, some at noon, some at three, and some at five. When the workday was over, the owner of the field paid everyone a full day's wage.""That's not fair!" Addy burst out. "The people who started later shouldn't have gotten the same pay as the ones who worked all day.""It might not seem fair, but instead of comparing the workers, maybe we can think about how generous the owner of the field was to all of them."Addy was quiet for a minute. She thought about how Ms. Chambers was always patient and kind to everyone--even the kids who made the biggest messes in the lunchroom. "Ms. Chambers is kind of like the owner of the field, isn't she? She kept her promise to all of us--even Henry, who did the least work of all.""Yes, Addy, and the owner of the field is like Jesus, who gives grace and keeps His promises to all of us who trust in Him. The way He works is sometimes hard for us to understand, but we can be grateful that He is always good." –Susie CrosbyHow About You?Do you sometimes feel frustrated when someone who didn't work as hard as you gets the same prize or payment? Sometimes things don't seem fair, but the good news is that God is generous and kind to everyone. None of us could earn the reward of eternal life with Him, but because Jesus died on the cross for our sins and rose again, we are all invited to the party in heaven forever. Today's Key Verse:For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. (NIV) (Ephesians 2:8-9)Today's Key Thought:God offers grace to everyone

(Bilingual) このメッセージではロド牧師が「神様にあって強くあれ」について以下の３つのポイントから話します。In this message Ps Rod talks about "Be Strong in the Lord" in these 3 points: エペソ 6:10 NIV / Ephesians 6:10イザヤ 7:9b 新改訳2017 / Isaiah 7:9b NIVルカ 23:34a ERV / Luke 23:34a NIVコロサイ 2:13-15 ERV / Colossians 2:13-15 ERVマタイ 16:17-18 JCB / Matthew 16:17-18 NIVルカ 22:31-32 JCB / Luke 22:31-32 JCBマタイ 12:20-21 ERV / Matthew 12:20-21 NKJVマルコ 2:17 JCB / Mark 2:17 Good News使徒 1:8 JCB / Acts 1:8 NKJV1コリント 15:10a JCB / 1 Corinthians 15:10a NKJVローマ 10:17 JCB / Romans 10:17 NKJVイザヤ 7:9b 新改訳2017 / Isaiah 7:9b NIVヨエル 3:10 新改訳 2017 / Joel 3:10c NKJVローマ 4:20 新改訳 2017 / Romans 4:20 NIV1.イエス：「真のサムライ」Jesus : “The Most True Samurai”2.私たちは初めから強いわけではないWe Don't Start Strong3.神様に触れられることで、私たちは強くなるThe Master's Touch On Us Makes Us Strong4.神様のことばが私たちエオ強く支えるHis Word Holds Us Strong5.私の信仰の告白が私を支え続けるMy Confession of Faith Holds Me in PlaceConnect with us:Web: mylifehouse.comInstagram: instagram.com/lifehouseglobal/Facebook: facebook.com/lifehouseglobalVideo Messages: ビデオメッセージ: youtube.com/LifehouseTokyoOther Podcasts:Want to listen to our messages in other languages?Lifehouse Messages (English): https://lifehousemessages.captivate.fm/listenLifehouse Hong Kong (Cantonese & English): https://lifehousehongkong.captivate.fm/listen

go to www.TheSecondAdam.com  “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” — Ephesians 1:3 (NIV) Ephesians 1:3 reveals an incredible truth: God has already blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ. These blessings are not theoretical or distant—they are real and available. But how do we activate them and experience their transformative power in our lives? Let's explore this through a biblical lens. 1. Understand What Spiritual Blessings Are The phrase "spiritual blessings" encompasses all the divine riches God has poured out through Christ. These include: Salvation: The forgiveness of sins and eternal life. (Ephesians 1:7) Adoption: Being welcomed into God's family as His children. (Ephesians 1:5) The Holy Spirit: Our guide, comforter, and seal of God's promises. (Ephesians 1:13-14) Peace, Joy, and Wisdom: Fruits of living in alignment with God's Word. Spiritual blessings are not material wealth or worldly success; they are deeper, eternal treasures that align us with God's purpose. 2. Activate Spiritual Blessings Through Faith Faith is the key that unlocks God's promises. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us, “Without faith, it is impossible to please God.” Believe: Trust that God's blessings are already yours in Christ. You don't need to earn them—they are a gift of grace. Receive: Open your heart and mind to accept what God has already given. Action Step: Spend time meditating on Ephesians 1. Personalize the promises by declaring, “I am blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” 3. Seek Intimacy with Christ Spiritual blessings are “in Christ.” This means they flow from your relationship with Him. Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit” (John 15:5). Pray Consistently: Prayer is your direct connection to God. Read Scripture: God's Word reveals His will and deepens your relationship with Him. Worship: Praise God for who He is and what He has done. Action Step: Dedicate daily time to connect with Jesus through prayer, Bible reading, and worship. 4. Walk in Obedience Obedience to God's Word positions you to fully experience His blessings. James 1:22 says, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” Surrender: Give every area of your life to God, trusting His plan is better than your own. Act on God's Promises: Faith without works is dead (James 2:17). Step out in faith, trusting that God will meet you. Action Step: Identify one area of your life where you need to align more closely with God's Word and take steps to obey Him today. 5. Activate Blessings Through Praise and Thanksgiving Ephesians 1:3 begins with praise: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ...” Gratitude is a powerful activator of God's blessings. Praise for the Past: Thank God for the blessings you've already received. Praise for the Present: Worship Him for His presence in your life now. Praise for the Future: Express faith in the blessings yet to be revealed. Action Step: Start a gratitude journal. Write down three blessings each day and thank God for them. 6. Rely on the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit is the seal and guarantee of our inheritance in Christ (Ephesians 1:13-14). He empowers, teaches, and reminds us of God's promises. Listen: Spend time in silence, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to you. Follow: When prompted by the Spirit, act in faith. Trust: Depend on the Spirit to guide you into truth and help you activate your blessings. Action Step: Pray daily for the Holy Spirit to fill you and lead you. Conclusion: Step Into Your Inheritance Ephesians 1:3 declares that you are already blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ. Activating these blessings requires faith, intimacy with God, obedience, praise, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. As you align your thoughts, words, and actions with God's promises, you'll begin to experience the fullness of His blessings in your life. God's blessings are not just for the future—they are for now. Today is the day to step into your spiritual inheritance. Trust Him, praise Him, and walk boldly in the blessings He has already provided. Reflection Questions: What spiritual blessings are you most grateful for today? In what area of your life do you need to trust God more to activate His promises? How can you deepen your relationship with Christ to experience His blessings more fully? Take time to reflect and ask God to help you walk in the fullness of what He has already given you.

Bible Reading: Philippians 2:13-16"Whenever I get home from school, all I want is food that's cool," chanted Marina, making up the rhyme as she opened the freezer and took out an ice cream bar. She grinned at her brother Archer.Archer rolled his eyes and made up a rhyme of his own. "I think your rhyme is kind of sad--your poetry is really bad." Marina laughed and went outside to where her mother was working in the garden. "Hello, Mother with a thumb that's green. You have the best vegetables I've seen."Mom smiled. "Still working on that poem you need for school?" "I'm trying, but all I can think of are silly things," said Marina.When Dad arrived home, Marina greeted him with another one of her rhymes. "Dad, your work day is finally done. Now it's time to have some fun!""Oh, Marina, I think your poems are getting worse," said Archer. "How about this? Mom, that chicken pasta looks so yummy. I want to put it in my tummy!"Dad laughed and joined in. "My family's always such a delight. It's a joy to be with them each night." As he sat down at the table, he said, "Actually, I know of a very special poem. It's mentioned in the Bible--in Ephesians 2:10.""That was our verse at church last week!" exclaimed Marina. "It says, 'For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.' But that doesn't rhyme like a poem, and it doesn't say anything about a poem.""The word handiwork comes from the Greek word poiema--that's the word we get our English word poem from," Dad explained. "So to say we are God's handiwork is like saying we are His poem.""I like that," said Marina with a grin.Dad smiled. "And just like a poem can bring joy to people through its words, you can bring joy to people through your good works--the good things you do for others that show them the love of Jesus. God created us to do these things and gave us the Holy Spirit to guide us in doing them. We are His poems that tell the story of the great things He has done for us." Marina's eyes lit up. "God is our Creator, and He made us for something greater!" – Lyndel F. WalkerHow About You?Do you have a favorite poem? If you're a Christian, remember that you are God's poem, created to love Him and bless others. God created you with unique gifts and passions, and He gave you the Holy Spirit to help you do the good things He calls you to do. When you love and help other people, you're pointing them toward your Author--Jesus Christ.Today's Key Verse:For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (NIV) (Ephesians 2:10)Today's Key Thought:Christians are God's poems

Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 16:6-13; John 3:16-17TAP! TAP! TAP! Two hammers thudded on the walnut shells. Ben and his dad were stripping the thick outer shells from nuts they had gathered in the woods. "Ugh!" exclaimed Ben, looking at the stains on his gloves. "It was fun picking these up, but they sure are messy!""Sure are," said Dad. "But just think how good Grandma's black walnut cake will taste when she uses these. It will be worth all the effort."As they continued working, Ben talked about school. "Did I tell you about the new kid in my class, Dad? His name is Collin, and he's weird!""Why do you say that?" asked Dad. "He always talks too loud, and he thinks he's such a tough guy," replied Ben. "I just don't like him."Dad worked in silence for a while. Then he picked up another walnut and held it out. "Maybe Collin is like this nut.""Yeah--a tough nut to crack!" said Ben."You don't know him very well yet, do you?" said Dad. He tapped the nut with his hammer. "Walnuts grow with this soft, spongy covering, and after we take that off, there's still a hard shell, so we can't see the good nutmeat on the inside. Collin may be like that. He may be quite different from who you think he is."Ben frowned. "You mean he may just be putting on a tough act?""It's important to try and see others as God sees them," Dad said. "God loves each and every one of us, and He knows exactly what our hearts look like. When people are afraid or insecure, they sometimes act tough to hide their feelings." Dad finished removing the outer shell from the nut. "Have you ever done that?" "I don't know," said Ben. "Maybe." Dad nodded. "Well, with God's help, maybe you could get past Collin's outer shell. When you see him as someone God loves--someone Jesus died on the cross to save--it will help you be more patient and understanding as you get to know him. Then see what God does in both of you."Ben considered how he could get to know Collin better. "He was watching us play soccer at recess," Ben said. "Maybe he'd want to join us."–Judith K. BoogaartHow About You?Do you have trouble liking someone because of how they act? It's possible they act that way to hide their fear or insecurity from others. Trust God to help you see that person the way He does. Remember that He loves them just like He loves you. He knows what's in each person's heart, and He can work through your love and kindness to change hearts and lives.Today's Key Verse:Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:2)Today's Key Thought:Look at others with love

Each week Pastor Chris will be bringing you a powerful word on whatever topic he is covering in the church but with a specific focus! PC dives into the word and brings you lots of scriptures about whatever topic it is to get you more biblical knowledge and understanding about what God is saying to you through his word! Welcome to Chris Sarno TV, an online campus of Relevant Church located in Daytona Beach, Florida. We pray that through this service you find your place, reveal your purpose, and unlock your potential! We pray this message blesses you and gives you the strength you need to do and be all that God has called you to do and be! Leave a comment below letting us know how this message impacted you today, we'd love to chat with you! #RelevantChurch #ChrisSarnoTV #PastorChrisSarno #OnlineChurch #ChurchOnline #RelevantChurchDaytonaBeach #Midweek #MDWK -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ways to Give: Text to Give: Text your amount to 386-968-1103 Online Giving: Visit our website http://www.relevantfl.org/giving to give via debit, credit, or ACH Mail It In: Send gift Via USPS to 920 Beville Rd. Daytona Beach, FL 32114 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Stay Connected: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @RelevantChurch Relevant Church Website: https://www.relevantfl.org/ Relevant Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevant_fl/ Relevant Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RelevantFL Relevant Church TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relevant_fl?_t=8mNFjdYMYoh&_r=1 Relevant Church App: https://apps.apple.com/app/id1615804850?fbclid=IwAR3aHqo_6kr8Tzd_JK6xihjfJkVk6j7-iqITDj1u1wFicDLn6g6C29gL3LY Rkidz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rkidzfl Relevant Youth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevantflyouth/ Relevant Church Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6nUtPIkecEehfstUWWPIVU?si=QBMEtu85SyuU3FxRM1X7lg&nd=1 Pastor Chris Sarno's Website: https://www.chrissarno.tv/ Chris Sarno App: http://www.chrissarno.tv/app -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Scripture References: Proverbs 3:9-10 (TPT) Genesis 1:26-27 (KJV) John 15:5 (KJV) Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) Philippians 1:6 (NIV) Ephesians 3:20 (NIV) 2 Peter 1:3 (NIV) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wednesday, October 9th 2024 Pastor Chris Sarno Relevant Church Full Of Potential | Chris Sarno TV

Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:26-32Willa was so upset at her sister Margot. All week long she'd been using Willa's things without asking, and today she had taken one of Willa's best shirts and worn it to school. As she walked into the house, Willa felt like her temper was about to explode. She slammed her backpack down on a kitchen chair, and it tumbled to the floor. Willa let out an exasperated scream."Willa, please sit down and cool off," Mom said. She poured two glasses of lemonade and sat down next to her. "Did I ever tell you about the summer my friend Carolee and I rented a small cottage by the lake for a week?" Mom asked.Willa sniffed. "No, but that sounds like it would be fun."Mom nodded. "It was great--until we decided to bake cookies one day. I opened the oven of the old gas stove while Carolee lit a match. It didn't light right away, but then, all of a sudden…WHOOSH! A bright yellow flash lit up the whole oven.""Were you hurt?" asked Willa, wide-eyed."We both had deep burns." Mom rolled up her sleeve and pointed at a pink scar on her forearm. "We learned later that the oven hadn't been used for a long time, and little by little, dirt had clogged the gas line. When the gas forced its way through, it came with a rush and caused an explosion." Mom sipped her lemonade. "Do you know why I told you this story?"Willa studied her fingernails. "Because my temper exploded?" Mom nodded. "Anger we allow to build up in our lives will eventually cause an explosion. But when we recognize our emotions and surrender them to Jesus, He will help us deal with our anger. He always forgives us when we act out of anger and will help us forgive others."Willa sighed. "But Margot makes me so mad sometimes!""I know. I'm not saying you should never feel upset with anyone, because that's impossible. Just remember that Jesus understands how you feel. He loves you and wants to help you work things out."Willa didn't want her anger to explode again. "Do you think you can help me talk to Margot and fix it?" She looked up and saw a smile on her mom's face. –Nance E. KeyesHow About You?Have you lost your temper before? Do you let your angry feelings build until you feel like you're going to burst? When you feel upset, pray right away. Share your angry feelings with Jesus, and trust Him to give you peace and self-control. With His help, you can learn to work out conflicts in a forgiving, loving manner. If your anger feels overwhelming, ask an adult for help too.Today's Key Verse:"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:26 )Today's Key Thought:Give your difficult feelings to God

Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:26-32Willa was so upset at her sister Margot. All week long she'd been using Willa's things without asking, and today she had taken one of Willa's best shirts and worn it to school. As she walked into the house, Willa felt like her temper was about to explode. She slammed her backpack down on a kitchen chair, and it tumbled to the floor. Willa let out an exasperated scream."Willa, please sit down and cool off," Mom said. She poured two glasses of lemonade and sat down next to her. "Did I ever tell you about the summer my friend Carolee and I rented a small cottage by the lake for a week?" Mom asked.Willa sniffed. "No, but that sounds like it would be fun."Mom nodded. "It was great--until we decided to bake cookies one day. I opened the oven of the old gas stove while Carolee lit a match. It didn't light right away, but then, all of a sudden…WHOOSH! A bright yellow flash lit up the whole oven.""Were you hurt?" asked Willa, wide-eyed."We both had deep burns." Mom rolled up her sleeve and pointed at a pink scar on her forearm. "We learned later that the oven hadn't been used for a long time, and little by little, dirt had clogged the gas line. When the gas forced its way through, it came with a rush and caused an explosion." Mom sipped her lemonade. "Do you know why I told you this story?"Willa studied her fingernails. "Because my temper exploded?" Mom nodded. "Anger we allow to build up in our lives will eventually cause an explosion. But when we recognize our emotions and surrender them to Jesus, He will help us deal with our anger. He always forgives us when we act out of anger and will help us forgive others."Willa sighed. "But Margot makes me so mad sometimes!""I know. I'm not saying you should never feel upset with anyone, because that's impossible. Just remember that Jesus understands how you feel. He loves you and wants to help you work things out."Willa didn't want her anger to explode again. "Do you think you can help me talk to Margot and fix it?" She looked up and saw a smile on her mom's face. –Nance E. KeyesHow About You?Have you lost your temper before? Do you let your angry feelings build until you feel like you're going to burst? When you feel upset, pray right away. Share your angry feelings with Jesus, and trust Him to give you peace and self-control. With His help, you can learn to work out conflicts in a forgiving, loving manner. If your anger feels overwhelming, ask an adult for help too.Today's Key Verse:"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:26 )Today's Key Thought:Give your difficult feelings to God

God has freely given us the blessing to walk in, but do we know what that truly means? There are so many things included in the blessing from God including protection, a great life, favor, and so many other things. But, we need to learn how to walk out into this blessing each and every day, and that is exactly what this series from Pastor Chris Sarno is all about. This series is specifically designed to unlock the spiritual truths you need to learn about accessing the blessing! Welcome to Relevant Church Live, the online campus of Relevant Church located in Daytona Beach, Florida. We pray that through this service you find your place, reveal your purpose, and unlock your potential! We pray this message blesses you and gives you the strength you need to do and be all that God has called you to do and be! Leave a comment below letting us know how this message impacted you today, we'd love to chat with you! #RelevantChurch #TheBlessing #Blessed #PastorChrisSarno #OnlineChurch #RelevantChurchDaytonaBeach #Church #ChurchOnline #RelevantChurchFlorida -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ways to Give: Text to Give: Text your amount to 386-968-1103 Online Giving: Visit our website http://www.relevantfl.org/giving to give via debit, credit, or ACH Mail It In: Send gift Via USPS to 920 Beville Rd. Daytona Beach, FL 32114 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Stay Connected: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @RelevantChurch Relevant Church Website: https://www.relevantfl.org/ Relevant Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevant_fl/ Relevant Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RelevantFL Relevant Church TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relevant_fl?_t=8mNFjdYMYoh&_r=1 Relevant Church App: https://apps.apple.com/app/id1615804850?fbclid=IwAR3aHqo_6kr8Tzd_JK6xihjfJkVk6j7-iqITDj1u1wFicDLn6g6C29gL3LY Rkidz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rkidzfl Relevant Youth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevantflyouth/ Relevant Church Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6nUtPIkecEehfstUWWPIVU?si=QBMEtu85SyuU3FxRM1X7lg&nd=1 Pastor Chris Sarno's Website: https://www.chrissarno.tv/ Chris Sarno App: http://www.chrissarno.tv/app -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Scripture References: Malachi 3:10 (NIV) Ephesians 2:8-10 (TPT) Hebrews 1:14 (NIV) John 14:13-14 (NIV) Philippians 4:19 (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NIV) Psalms 91:10-11 (NIV) Isaiah 54:17 (NIV) Revelations 3:8 (NIV) 1 Corinthians 16:9 (NIV) John 15:11 (NIV) Philippians 4:4-7 (TPT) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunday, September 22nd 2024 Pastor Chris Sarno Relevant Church What To Expect In The Blessing | The Blessing | Pastor Chris Sarno The Blessing | Week 3 | September 22nd, 2024 | Pastor Chris Sarno | Relevant Church

What happens when it feels like there are more barriers than breakthroughs? Pastor Wade is back continuing our "Victory in Advance" sermon season with another amazing message about the importance of how we push through our barriers and the impact it will have on us and those around us. We pray this message encourages you to keep pushing forward with the help of the Holy Spirit!   Scripture references: Acts 12:1-11 (NIV) Ephesians 6:10-13 (NIV)   Connect With Us: To learn more about Victory Church and to get connected, visit us at https://victory.church/   Worship Gathering Times: To see locations & worship gathering times, visit https://victory.church/locations/   Prayer: We believe in praying big prayers to a big God and expecting big results. If you're in need of prayer, our team would be honored to pray with you. You can reach us for prayer at https://victory.church/prayer   Giving: At Victory, we steward God's resources well and with radical generosity. If you'd like to give toward the mission of Victory Church, visit https://victory.church/give/   Follow Us: OKC Campus: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victorychurchokc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victorychurchok   Edmond Campus: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoryedmond/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victory.churchEDM   Grapevine (Texas) Campus: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victorychurchgrapevine/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089341962919

/> ### MESSAGE NOTESWalking The Way | Prayer | Week 11 | July 21, 2024Teacher: David Nunn/>  Luke 24:50-53   When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. Then they worshipped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.       /> Acts 1:24-25  Then they prayed, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs."  /> Acts 4:29-30   “Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”        >/ Acts 1:14  They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.  >/ Acts 2:46-47      Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.           >/ Acts 4:32-34   All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God's grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them.  NIV>/ Ephesians 4:3 says, “Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, through the bond of peace.”>/ Acts 13:2-3 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them."              >/ Acts 14:23 "Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.">/ Acts 21:5  All the disciples and their wives and children accompanied us out of the city, and there on the beach we knelt to pray.             >/ Attitude of Prayer>/ 1.              Desire of and acceptance of God's will.>/ 2.              Stillness>/ 3.              Expectancy>/ Psalm 138:7-8  "Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me. The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever."

On today's SOLO episode, I talk about a very serious topic: Healthy S*xuality. We discuss what God's original plan is, how the enemy is always trying to ruin it, how we can avoid that temptation, and also find healing and redemption for our past! PLUS: Sharing my story about S*x Before Marriage What the Bible says about S*x Boundaries in Dating Purity Culture The seriousness of this topic P*rnography, M*sturbation, and s*x outside marriage How to find freedom from this struggle AND MORE! I hope this helps you and blesses you!

Bible Reading: Isaiah 53:5-6; 64:6; Ephesians 2:8-9After placing dishes full of fragrant food on the table, Sunita sat down and sighed. "What's wrong, my love?" Mummy asked after they thanked God for their meal."Last week I made a plan to do a good deed every day. Or at least not a bad one. I wrote myself a note to remind me," Sunita explained. "That's nice, but why do you look gloomy?" Mummy asked."Because it's the end of the day, and I haven't done a good deed. And I got mad at my friends playing cricket today. I yelled at Anaya and said that I was leaving if I didn't get a turn as the wicketkeeper." Sunita's chin trembled. "I couldn't keep my plan for even one week!"Mummy scooped a serving of chicken tikka masala onto Sunita's plate. Then she took her daughter's hands in her own. "Sunita, remember last summer when you gave your life to Jesus?"Sunita nodded. "Yes, I wanted to be right with God, so I confessed that I'm a sinner and asked Jesus to forgive me. Because He died for me. But why do you ask?""Why did Jesus die for you, my dear?" Mummy asked."Because somebody had to pay for my sins. Jesus died in my place so I can have eternal life.""That's right, Sunita! We can't keep our own standards, as you have seen. And we certainly can't keep God's standards. That's why we need Jesus. We cannot pay for our wrongs by doing good deeds or by avoiding bad ones. The only way we can have a relationship with God is to receive the gift of forgiveness through His Son."Sunita took a bite of food and smiled. "So, even if I miss a day of good deeds, or get angry at my friends, I'll still have God's forgiveness?""Yes, once we have trusted in Jesus for forgiveness, we don't lose it," Mummy assured her. "We will still do wrong things, but He will always forgive our wrongs, and He'll also help us do good things that show others His love. But our good deeds don't to anything to make us right with God--Jesus did that for us.""I'll write another note," Sunita announced. "It will remind me to do good deeds--but to remember that Jesus did the best one of all." –Allison Wilson LeeHow About You?Do you wonder if you've done enough good works to please God or fear you have too many sins for Him to forgive? Forgiveness and eternal life come only through Jesus, who died to take the punishment for all our sins. We can't earn forgiveness by doing nice things or avoiding bad choices. Knowing God is a gift that becomes ours when we accept it by trusting in Jesus. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)Today's Key Verse:For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. (NIV) (Ephesians 2:8)Today's Key Thought:Forgiveness comes only through Jesus

Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:29; James 3:2-10"I don't want to see you again until you give me my mitt back!" shouted Adrian. "Don't ever come in my room again!" He slammed the door as his brother left the room."What's all this yelling about?" asked Mom, coming down the hall. "Adrian says I stole his baseball mitt, but I didn't," replied Sawyer angrily. "He's a liar." Mom rapped on Adrian's closed door. "Adrian, come out here. I want both of you to follow me." She led them to the back porch. There, on a bench, lay Adrian's mitt. The boys immediately began yelling, each accusing the other of leaving the mitt there.Mom held up her hands, and the boys got quiet. "Both of you, follow me." This time she headed for the kitchen. She took an egg from the refrigerator and placed it on the counter beside an empty bowl. "Sawyer, crack this egg into the bowl." The boys gave her a puzzled look, but Sawyer obeyed. "Now, Adrian," said Mom, "put that egg back into the shell again--just the way it was."Adrian frowned. "You know I can't do that. You can't fix a broken egg.""Like Humpty Dumpty, right?" said Mom. "Our words are a lot like eggs sitting on a wall--once they've fallen and broken apart, we can't put them back. You both said some ugly things to each other, and taking words back is as impossible as mending an egg. The Bible says the tongue can be like a fire, causing a lot of damage when out of control." Adrian crossed his arms. "Sometimes the words just come out when I get mad. How am I supposed to keep the egg from cracking?"Mom walked the egg shell over to the compost bucket and dropped it in. "God gives believers a Helper--the Holy Spirit. Through Him we have the power to do difficult things, like tame our tongues. We can trust Him to help us when we are struggling to love others."The boys stood and looked at each other for a minute. "I'm sorry for what I said," Sawyer finally mumbled."Me too," replied Adrian. "That sounds like a great start," said Mom. "I'm going to pray that God will help us all love each other the way Jesus loves us. Now, who wants scrambled eggs?" –Dean A. FowlerHow About You?Are you careful about the words you speak, or do they sometimes get away from you before you think? It's good to say you're sorry when that happens, but it doesn't totally undo the damage the words may have done. That's why it's important to trust God to help you speak in a kind, loving way. He will help you control what you say so your words reflect the love of Jesus.Today's Key Verse:Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:29)Today's Key Thought:Think before you speak

Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:32; 5:1-2; Titus 2:11-14"See my picture!" Little Tatiana proudly showed Eden a page of scribbled lines. Red, blue, green, and yellow streaks crisscrossed the picture of balloons.Eden laughed. "Mom's never going to put that up on the fridge. It's a mess! You don't stay in the lines."Tatiana's lips puckered, and big tear drops crept down her cheeks. "Mommy!" she wailed and ran to find her mother.Eden sighed as she took an orange crayon from the box and began to carefully color the stained glass window in a picture of a church. Now Mom's gonna chew me out for telling Tatiana the truth, she thought. Does she really think her pictures are good enough to put up next to mine? Eden looked at her picture carefully and chose another crayon to use. It was nearly finished when Mom walked into the room, holding Tatiana's hand."I came to see some pictures," said Mom. "Let me see what you colored today, Tatiana." The little girl found her picture and handed it to her mother. She beamed when Mom complimented her on the colors she had chosen.Then Mom looked at Eden's picture. "This is very nicely done. You stayed in the lines as you colored, and like you told Tatiana, a picture is prettier when you stay inside the lines." Eden smiled and nodded as Mom continued looking at the picture. "You know, I'm so glad that when I struggle to color inside the lines in life, Jesus gives me grace.""What do you mean?" Eden asked."If living a perfect life is like coloring inside the lines, I mess up a lot! But Jesus always forgives me and is helping me become more like Him. He lived a perfect life because I couldn't and died for my sins, and He helps me show love and grace to others so they can see that my life-picture is beautiful because of Him."Eden was quiet for a moment, thinking about her mother's words and the grace she had received from Jesus too. "I shouldn't have been so tough on Tatiana's coloring," Eden whispered."What can you do about it?" asked Mom.Eden smiled at her little sister. "I'm sorry, Tatiana. Would you like me to help you color another picture?" Tatiana nodded happily. –Lucinda J. RollingsHow About You?What does your life-picture look like? Is it beautifully colored in with love, kindness, and patience? Or is it scribbled over with selfishness and the harsh way you judge or treat others? We all fail to color inside the lines of our life-pictures sometimes, but Jesus gives us grace. He erases our mistakes and helps us love others the way He does. Trust Him to make your life a beautiful work of art that draws others to Him.Today's Key Verse:Walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us. (NIV) (Ephesians 5:2 )Today's Key Thought:Show love and grace to others

Bible Reading: Psalm 103:8-12"School was rotten today," Kevin said."Rotten? Why?" Dad asked. "Was there broccoli in your hot lunch again?" "No." Kevin grimaced. "But I do hate broccoli. School was rotten because my teacher, Mr. Harper, got arrested for drugs. A bunch of parents are trying to get him fired."Dad was stunned. "Kevin, are you sure? I've known Ron Harper for years. Is he still in jail?"Kevin shook his head. "No, it happened fifteen years ago, when he was in college." "Then why are people talking about this now?" Dad asked. "Someone found out about it online, so now everyone's mad. I never liked Mr. Harper anyway. He gives tons of homework and quizzes. But the worst thing is, he always says, 'Don't use drugs, not ever, not even once.'" "Maybe that's because he cares about you and knows from experience that drugs can destroy your life," said Dad. "You know, Kevin, it's easy to believe bad things about someone you don't like." Kevin shrugged. "Some kids are transferring out of his class. Can I transfer too?" "I want to hear about this from Mr. Harper himself. I'll see if he can meet me for coffee. Until then, you aren't to gossip about this with anyone, understand? You know the Bible warns against gossip." "Even if it's true?" "Especially if it's true," said Dad. That evening, Kevin's dad called him for dinner. "Kevin, before we eat, let's talk. Mr. Harper told me that it's true he was arrested for drugs in college. He spent many months in jail and paid a big fine, and he deeply regrets doing what he did. He also told your school principal about his arrest before he was hired as a teacher." Dad sighed heavily. "Kevin, don't forget that as Christians, our sins have been buried in the deepest sea of God's forgiveness, and--""I know," said Kevin. "If Jesus can forgive us, we can forgive Mr. Harper.""Absolutely. Forgiveness doesn't always mean we trust people to be in certain positions, but in Mr. Harper's case, I can see he's changed, and I trust him to be a good teacher."Kevin nodded, then looked toward the stove. "Well, I'm starving. What's for dinner?""Broccoli," said Dad. Kevin frowned, but Dad smiled. "Just kidding. I made spaghetti." –Teresa AmbordHow About You?Have you heard gossip about someone you didn't like? It can be tempting to believe bad things about somebody else, even without proof. But even if it is true, remember that the only person who ever lived a perfect life without mistakes was Jesus. He forgave us, and we can show the same forgiveness to others.Today's Key Verse:Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:32)Today's Key Thought:As Jesus forgives, so must we

Bible Reading: Romans 6:1-11Jaxon hadn't meant to break the window. The ball had slipped out of his hand, and now he stood in front of a mess. If only there was some way to hide it, Jaxon thought.But there wasn't. He couldn't fix it. He'd broken his bedroom window, and his parents were going to find out. They were probably going to ground him.Jaxon sighed. "It's my own fault. I shouldn't have been playing ball in the house."Instead of trying to hide things, Jaxon went downstairs. "Dad?" Jaxon said.Dad turned toward him. "Yes?"Jaxon looked at his feet. "I broke my window."Dad got up. "How did that happen?""I hit it with a ball," Jaxon mumbled. "I'm sorry."They went upstairs to look at the damage, and Jaxon waited for his dad to tell him what his punishment was going to be. "I'm sorry," Jaxon said again. "I know I shouldn't have been playing with the ball in here."Dad nodded slowly. "You did know it's against the rules to play ball in the house, right?"Jaxon nodded. "I guess I thought I could get away with it if no one saw me."Dad sighed. "I need to talk to your mom," he said.Jaxon waited for his parents and was surprised by how calm they looked when they came into his room."We decided to give you grace this time," Mom said."Grace?" Jaxon asked."Yes," said Mom. "We're not giving you what you deserve for breaking the rules. We've decided to give you grace instead." She smiled. "Just like how Jesus gives us grace all the time. He died to take the punishment we deserve for our sins so we could be saved and enjoy life with Him. Whenever we do something wrong, He offers us grace and forgiveness.""Right," Dad said. "But the Bible says that those saved by grace shouldn't go on sinning. We're trusting that there will be no more ball playing in the house.""There won't be," Jaxon quickly agreed.Mom hugged him. "We forgive you and we love you.""We do," Dad said.Jaxon smiled. Grace felt pretty amazing. –Bethany AckerHow About You?Has anyone ever given you grace when you didn't deserve it? How did it feel? Have you received God's grace by trusting Jesus to forgive your sins? His gift of grace covers all your wrongs. Instead of getting the punishment you deserve--eternal separation from God--He forgives you and gives you eternal life with Him. Trust in Him so you can enjoy His grace every day. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)Today's Key Verse:For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. (NIV) (Ephesians 2:8)Today's Key Thought:Grace is a great gift

At church today we embark on a journey to uncover the rich, multifaceted nature of peace as presented in the Scriptures, and we're going to do that by: * examining its various manifestations in the Old and New Testament * exploring three of its dimensions, namely relational, societal and personal * and confronting the challenge of a lived experiential peace in our daily lives Bible References:

Bible Reading: Psalm 119:103; Proverbs 12:18; Colossians 4:6"My turn!" Junior shouted as he laid the next block. He and his brother were playing a tower-building game, and the tower was getting high. Carefully, he laid down the next piece and held his breath as the tower wobbled, wobbled--then, thankfully, stopped. "Okay. Your turn, Max." Max concentrated hard as he gently placed the next wooden log on top of the tower. The tower teetered and wobbled, but this time it didn't stop. With a loud crash, all the pieces of the tower came tumbling down. Junior threw up his hands. "No! C'mon, Max! I was trying to get a record. I should have just done this by myself. You're no help at all." Max opened his mouth to respond, but then got up and went to his room with his head down. Later that night, Mom knocked on Junior's door. "Do you have any idea why Max seems a little down tonight?" she asked.Junior shrugged. "I don't know." Mom raised an eyebrow. "Really?" Junior sighed. "I did get a little mad at him after he made our tower fall down. It was supposed to be a world record!" Mom nodded. "I understand that you got frustrated, but Max told me you said he's no help at all. That's not a nice thing to say." Junior looked down. "I guess not. I'm sorry." Mom looked thoughtful. "You know, what happened to your tower reminds me of our words. The words we say can either build others up or knock them down. Just like you were doing with your tower, we need to be careful that the words we say build others up with love and encouragement, the way Jesus encourages us with His words to us in the Bible." Junior nodded. "That makes sense. I think I need to tell Max something." He left his room and knocked on Max's door. "Max? Can I come in?" Max shrugged. "Sure." "I'm sorry for what I said earlier. Do you want to build a tower with me again?" Max smiled. "Really?" Junior grinned. "Yup." And this time, he would also be building with his words. – Chukwuka UgobiHow About You?Do your words build up? Or do they tear down? Our words have an impact on others, so we have to be careful what we say. The Bible tells us to build each other up with words that encourage others and point them to Jesus. He builds us up with words of love, hope, and forgiveness in the Bible, and He will help you build others up with your words.Today's Key Verse:Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:29)Today's Key Thought:Build each other up

Bible Reading: James 3:1-12Kaylee threw down her phone and fell back on her bed. I can't believe Emma isn't inviting me to her party. I thought we were friends! Just then Mom walked into her room. "Kaylee, please make your bed and take your laundry basket to the laundry room." Kaylee groaned. "I don't feel like doing it right now, Mom. You're on the way to the laundry room, so why don't you take it yourself.""Kaylee! Do not talk to me like that. We each have chores we have to do. One of yours is to make your bed and pick up your room.""I'll do it later," Kaylee said.Mom frowned at her. "Kaylee," she said in a warning tone.Kaylee got up and started to smooth out her sheets. "I'm not sure why I talked back to you. I guess I felt angry because Emma just told me I wasn't invited to her party." She sighed as she fluffed her pillow. "Emma's attitude sometimes changes for no reason, and she can really hurt my feelings. One minute she's talking about all the fun we had at youth group, and the next she's telling me I'm not invited to her party. It's like her words turn instantly rude!" She looked at her mom. "But then I just did the same thing to you, didn't I? What makes us change like that?" "Sometimes feeling disappointed or mad can make us want to hurt others," replied Mom. "We need to watch what we say when we feel upset or hurt. And if we do sin with our words, we should ask for forgiveness right away--from both God and the person we hurt." Mom put an arm around Kaylee. "Remember that Jesus loves you, me, and Emma all the same. He forgives us when we hurt others with our words, and He'll also help us speak in a loving way, even when we feel upset."Kaylee nodded. "I'm sorry, Mom. I guess I was upset at Emma and took it out on you." She sighed. "I was really looking forward to Emma's party. Now what am I supposed to do?""Well," said Mom, "Jesus forgives us when we hurt others, and He also helps us forgive others when they hurt us."-Christine CollierHow About You?What kind of words come out of your mouth? Does it change depending on how you feel? Are you more likely to say rude or mean words when you feel disappointed or upset? When we say hurtful words in response to feeling hurt ourselves, it only makes things worse. If you've hurt someone with your words, ask them to forgive you, and ask Jesus for forgiveness too. Then trust Him to help you show His love to others through your words all the time.Today's Key Verse:Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:29)Today's Key Thought:Watch your words

Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1-2, 8-10"You and Dad are coming to my band concert tonight, right?" Zane asked at breakfast one day. "I've been practicing so much, I think I know our pieces backwards! And I get to play a special number with a smaller group--a brass ensemble.""We'll be there," Mom assured him. "We wouldn't miss it.""Can I go too?" asked Matilda eagerly. Mom assured her that she could go along.When it was time to get ready for the concert that evening, Zane was a bit nervous. "The timing on some of our pieces is kinda tricky," he said. "What if I mess up?""Just watch your conductor carefully and you'll do fine," said Dad.Zane nodded. "Mr. Liu stopped us in the middle of a piece the other day. Torin, one of the drummers, was really going at it, and he wasn't watching Mr. Liu at all. He played half a line before he realized nobody else was playing. Everybody laughed, even Mr. Liu, but then he gave us all a lecture on how important it is to follow his leading." He paused, then added, "I really like him. He's a good band leader.""Mine is too," said Matilda."You don't have a band leader," said Zane. "You're not in a band.""Am too!" said Matilda. "I'm a Christian, so I'm in God's band of believers." She looked accusingly at her brother. "You forgot!""Good for you, Matilda," said Dad. "You remembered, and I know you want to follow your leader too. Who is that leader?""Jesus!" Matilda answered."That's right," said Dad. "He's the very best leader of all.""What happens if I don't follow Him?" asked Matilda."Well," said Dad, "Zane's band has to follow their leader to play a beautiful song for other people to hear, and it's the same with Christians too. As we follow Jesus's example and let Him lead us in sharing His love with others, our lives become a beautiful song that helps others hear about Him and what He did to save us. There may be times when we mess up or play out of tune--times when we sin and do things that are selfish and wrong--but all we have to do is confess our sin, and Jesus will forgive us and help us find our place again."-Hazel W. MarettHow About You?Are you following Jesus? Are you letting Him guide you in how to live your life? If you're a Christian, you're a member of His band of believers--the church--and He is your leader. As you learn more about Him in the Bible, trust Him to lead you in loving others the way He does. There will be times when you mess up and do things that are wrong, but Jesus will forgive you and help you do better. Follow Jesus and trust Him to make your life a beautiful song that points others to Him.Today's Key Verse:Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us. (NIV) (Ephesians 5:1-2 )Today's Key Thought:Follow Jesus

Bible Reading: Psalms 138:8; 139:1-6"I wish I was good at sports," complained Quinn. "I was playing kickball with the neighbor kids and totally missed the ball when it was my turn to kick…twice! I'm so uncoordinated. I think God messed up when he made me."Mom sat down beside Quinn on the porch swing. "Honey, God never makes mistakes, and you know your value isn't based on how well you can kick a ball--it's based on God creating you in His image and Jesus dying to forgive your sins and make you God's child. But I know it can be frustrating when we feel like we aren't as smart, attractive, or athletic as our friends."Quinn sighed. "I don't have to be good at everything. I just want to have a little bit of athletic talent--like being able to dribble a basketball without it hitting my foot.""You are good at a lot of other things though," Mom said. "You really have a gift for understanding scientific concepts. You can explain body systems with such great detail and accuracy. I don't know many ten-year-olds who can draw a diagram of the heart from memory!""I just like learning about that stuff, Mom!" said Quinn. "None of my friends really care about that anyhow.""Maybe not yet, anyway," replied Mom. "I'm reading a book about Gladys Aylward, an English missionary to China in the 1930s and 1940s. When she was a teenager working as a maid, she wondered why she was so short--less than five feet tall--and had black hair and dark eyes when it seemed like everyone around her was taller with blond hair and blue eyes. However, when God called Gladys to be a missionary to China years later, she realized her looks helped her fit in with the people she would be ministering to. God had made her perfectly suited to spread the good news to the Chinese people at that time. Remember, Quinn, that God has made you perfectly suited for the plan He has for your life too.""Wow, that's a neat story, Mom," said Quinn. "So instead of wishing I was different, maybe I should start looking for ways God can use me just like I am."Mom smiled. "Exactly!"-Kendra AngleHow About You?Do you wish you were taller or better at sports or smarter in school? God created you and loves you just the way you are, and He has made you with exactly the skills and talents you need for the plans He has for you. Look for the things you are good at and see how God will use you for His purposes!Today's Key Verse:For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (NIV) (Ephesians 2:10)Today's Key Thought:You are God's handiwork

Don't look one way in the church and look another way outside of the church. Don't live a lie! Each word should be a gift.Ephesians 4:20-24 (NIV) Ephesians 4:25-32 (MSG

Biblical Talks  In this episode of Biblical Talks, we discuss Mark 10:13-16 New International Version. If you are thinking, “What is simply simple about this passage?” Well, in this passage people were bringing children to Jesus. Because they wanted Him to lay His hands on them. Now the disciples reprimanded the people for bringing the children to Jesus. But when Jesus saw this, He was angry with the disciples.  In Mark 10:14-15, Jesus says, "14...“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”  The beauty of this passage is that we all can come to Jesus of Nazareth. And that's why it is Simply Simple.  Now, here are a couple questions for you. Have you read the above-mentioned passage? If so, what are your thoughts? If you haven't, no worries, we've got you covered.  Either way, come go with us in your bible or bible app to Mark 10:13-16 New International Version.  Also, go ahead and use the player at the top of this blog post or subscribe and listen via your preferred podcast platform to follow along.  Then get encouraged by joining Lady V and me in this Biblical Talk — Simply Simple.  Scriptures Referenced in Episode Discussion  Mark 10:13-16 NIV Ephesians 2:8-9 Psalm 149:4 Psalm 25:9 1 Peter 5:6-7 John 3:16-17 Romans 10:9-10 Numbers 6:24-26  Receive your Free Gift of Salvation – The Gospel of Jesus Christ  Explanation  If you are reading this, it is not by chance. This is your time to receive the Gift of Salvation through Christ Jesus.  Now, you may be wondering, "Why do I need that?" Oh, I'm so glad you asked. The Bible says, that because  Adam ate fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil -- he released sin into the world.  And ultimately, Adam's sin brought death and death spread to everyone.  No doubt, you may be thinking, "Of course, everyone is going to die." But, my question to you is "Where will you spend eternity?" Because there is life after death. In fact, when you die you go to one of two places -- heaven or hell.  Also, it is important to understand that, Adam's sin also brought an eternity in hell. But for those who choose not to receive the free gift of eternal life. Thus, you must make that choice before you take your last breath.  Romans 5:17 New Living Translation says,  “For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God's wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ.”  To sum it all up, Romans 6:23 New Living Translation says,  “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.”  So, if you are reading this, don't let another day go by without receiving this life-changing gift.  Scripture   Romans 10:8-10 New Living Translation says,  “8 …“The message is very close at hand; it is on your lips and in your heart.” And that message is the very message about faith that we preach:  9 If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.  10 For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.”  Salvation Prayer  Lord Jesus, I am a sinner, and I am sorry for my sins. I ask You to forgive me. I want to follow You, Jesus. I believe in my heart that God raised you from the dead. By faith, I receive You, Jesus Christ, and your gift of grace. Come into my heart, into my life, and be my Lord and Savior.  Listen to We R S.H.E.Talks Podcast  Use the web player above this blog post to listen or subscribe and listen via your favorite podcast platform.   Bible Study Resources  Holy Bible [NLT,

The #1 Reason You’re Not Growing 1 Peter 1:23 For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. (NIV) 1 John 3:9 No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. (NIV) Galatians 5:16–23 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (NIV) 9 Characteristics Of The Fruit Of The Spirit 1. Love: 2. Joy: 3. Peace: 4. Patience: 5. Kindness: 6. Goodness: Luke 6:27 “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, (NIV) Titus 2:14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. (NIV) Romans 12:21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (NIV) Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (NIV) 7. Faithfulness 1 Corinthians 4:2 Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. (ESV) Revelation 2:10 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown. (NIV) Matthew 25:21 The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together”. (NLT) 8. Gentleness  Matthew 11:29 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. (NIV) Ephesians 4:2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 10:1 By the humility and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am “timid” when face to face with you, but “bold” toward you when away! (NIV) Philippians 4:5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. (NIV) Titus 3:2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone (NIV) 9. Self-Control 2 Timothy 1:7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. (ESV) Titus 2:11–12 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, (NIV) 1 Peter 4:7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. (ESV) John 15:1-10 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. 9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. (NIV) 1 Peter 1:14 So you must live as God’s obedient children. Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn’t know any better then. (NLT) 9 Ways To Remain So Your Fruit Grows 1. Remain in the word John 15:7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. (NIV) 2. Remain in prayer Colossians 4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. (NIV) 3. Remain in church Hebrews 10:25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. (NLT) 4. Remain in small groups 5. Remain in serving 1 Peter 4:10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. (NIV) 6. Remain in generosity 1 Corinthians 16:2 On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. (NIV) 7. Remain in the love of God John 15:9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. (NIV) 8. Remain in the pruning process John 15:1-2 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. (NIV) 9. Remain in obedience John 15:10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. (NIV)

Bible Reading: John 9:1-7Seth crept into the dark room. He switched on the lamp and waved his arms back and forth above the crib. Leah didn't notice him. She was blind."Hi, baby," he whispered. She turned her tiny head toward the sound of his voice. He patted her hand through the bars. "What are you doing in here?" asked Mom, coming in from the hallway."I'm trying to make Leah see me," Seth said.Mom spread a quilt on the floor. "I'm not sure she'll ever be able to see you, Seth. But she can hear your voice and feel your touch."Seth sighed. "Why did God give her eyes that don't work?" Mom lifted Leah out of her crib and laid her on the quilt beside Seth. "We don't always understand the ways of the Lord, but we know that He can use the bad things that happen to us for good." "Blind eyes aren't good," said Seth."The Bible tells a story about a man born blind like Leah," said Mom. "People questioned Jesus about that man's eyes too." Leah gripped Seth's finger as Mom continued. "Jesus said the man was born blind so the world could see the great love and awesome power of God." Mom stroked Leah's cheek. "Then Jesus healed the man and he was no longer blind." "Is Jesus going to heal Leah?" asked Seth."I pray for that every day," said Mom. "As we wait for His answer, we can pray that Leah will hear God's voice and that He will give her special eyes to see Him with her heart.""I don't need eyes in my heart because my other eyes can see, right, Mom?""Everyone needs heart-eyes," said Mom. "We are all blind like Leah until we listen to God's voice and turn to Jesus.""My Sunday school teacher says the Bible is God's voice," said Seth."She's right," said Mom. "God's Word tells us why we need Jesus to save us from sin. When God opens our eyes to its truth, we can see His great love for us."Seth jumped up and bolted from the room. He returned with his Bible and plopped onto the quilt. "I think Leah will like the rainbow story."Leah turned her face toward Seth as he read God's Word. -Trine GrilloHow About You?Are you able to see with the eyes of your heart? Seeing with your heart-eyes is more important that seeing with your physical eyes, because that's the only way to see God's great love for you. The Bible is God's Word, and it tells us who God is and what He did to save us. As you read and listen to His Word, trust God to open the eyes of your heart and help you hear His voice.Today's Key Verse:I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you. (NIV) (Ephesians 1:18)Today's Key Thought:Listen to God's voice

“Honor your father and mother.” “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” (NIV) Ephesians 6:2, 3

Morning Service April 16, 2023       Guest Speaker:  WVBC Area Minister Rev. Evan Arkell Sermon:            God Wants to Show You His Mercy (1 Peter 1)   Today's Scriptures (Primary Text):  1 Peter 1:3-8 (NIV)   Supporting Texts: 2 Corinthians 12:6-10 (NIV) John 3:3-6 (NIV) John 14:1-3 (NIV) John 20:24-29 (NIV) Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV)   If you feel led to support our ministry, you can find us on our website at www.highlawnbaptistchurch.org or through Tithely.  (Click here to give online, or you can download the app for Apple or Android. Note: please use the "green" app).  Create an account and search for "Highlawn Baptist Church" in "Saint Albans, WV".  Thank you!   FIND US ON YOUTUBE!  Sunday Morning sermons (as well as this sermon) can be found by searching for "Highlawn Baptist" on YouTube, or by clicking here.   Live Streams of Sunday morning services can also be found on YouTube at about 11:00 AM, every Sunday.  Subscribe and "ring the bell" for our YouTube page to be alerted when the live stream starts!  We've now added live streams of our Wednesday evening "Journey Through the Bible" lessons! Join us at 7:00 to walk through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation.   As with this podcast - Subscribe, Like, and Share our YouTube channel to help us get the message of the Good News out to a world in need of hope!   Love God - Share His Word - Love Others - Spread the Gospel “Know Christ and Make Christ Known” Highlawn Baptist Church (www.HighlawnBaptistChurch.org)

Spiritual WarfareEphesians 6:10-18 (NIV)“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 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. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.”The normal Christian life The Christian life is a life of spiritual warfare. "There is no neutral ground in the universe. Every square inch, every split second is claimed by God and counterclaimed by Satan." - C.S. Lewis Ephesians 6:10 (NIV)“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” People are a distraction of the real enemy. Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) Ephesians 6:11 (NIV)“Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.”  “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood”3. Satan has plans and strategies to carry out His plan.June 4, 2023 // Pastor Jason KingMathew 4:1-11 (NIV)“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting fortydays and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, ‘If you are the Son of God,tell these stones to become bread.'Jesus answered, ‘It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. ‘If you are the Son of God,' he said, ‘throw yourself down. For it is written:‘He will command his angels concerning you,and they will lift you up in their hands,so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'Jesus answered him, ‘It is also written: Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. ‘All this I will give you,' he said, ‘if you will bow down and worship me.'Jesus said to him, ‘Away from me, Satan! For it is written: Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.”James 4:7 (ESV)“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”Isaiah 14:13,14 (NIV)“You said in your heart,‘I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throneabove the stars of God;I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon.I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.'”John 10:10 (NKJV)“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”4. You have everything you need for this battle.Ephesians 6:11 (NIV)“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.”

Many people come to God expecting a quick miracle that will make everything better. What the Bible actually emphasizes is "building," which is a long-term view of life. Those whose lives collapse almost always have ignored building the emotional aspect of their spiritual lives—they were not willing to dig down deep. Building or rebuilding our emotional lives will allow us to grow our character as we walk with God and develop our strength from the inside out. Check out this excerpt from chapter six of our new book, He's Not Who You Think He Is: Dropping Your Assumptions and Discovering God for Yourself⁠, which is available now on Amazon! Luke 6:47–49 NIV Ephesians 3:16–19 NIV Proverbs 15:4 NLT 2 Chronicles 6:29–31 NIV Proverbs 18:24 NIV Psalm 15:1–2 NIV Proverbs 26:24 NIV Psalm 36:1–2 NIV Psalm 51:6 NLT Hebrews 3:12–13 NIV Hebrews 5:11–14 NIV 1 Corinthians 12:18–21 NIV

Bible Reading: Acts 1:8; Ephesians 4:11-13"Looks good, guys." Matías stood back and surveyed the side of the shed he and his younger brothers, Luis and Vincent, were painting. Matías was in charge of the project. He'd helped his dad paint their house before, so he was showing his brothers how it should be done. "Be sure to brush the paint out nice and smooth," said Matías.As they worked, the boys started talking about their friend Nathan who lived nearby. "Nathan asked me about our church and what we believe," said Vincent. "I didn't really know what to say. I was afraid I might not answer right, so I gave him my Sunday school teacher's email address.""Maybe we should ask Pastor Garcia to talk to him," said Matías."Yeah," agreed Luis. "It's the pastor's job to tell people about Jesus."Soon Mom came out with a tray of cookies and lemonade. "Matías," she said as the boys sat down to enjoy their snack, "since you're the only one who's painted before and know how to do it, why didn't Dad tell you to paint the shed alone?""All alone!" Matías shook his head. "This job is way too big for one person." "Dad figured Matías could teach Vincent and me to paint," Luis said. "Aren't we doing okay?""Oh, you're doing fine," Mom assured him. "But I overheard you say that it's the pastor's job to tell people about Jesus. He should do that, of course, but that job is also way too big for one person.""But we're not trained to do that like Pastor Garcia is," Vincent protested."No, and it's good to get all the training you can. Pastors and teachers and other Christians can help equip you to share your faith with others--just like Matías showed the two of you how to paint the shed. Learn from them, but don't wait for them to do all the work.""So you're saying we should answer some of Nathan's questions ourselves?" asked Matías."That's right," Mom said. "It's good to refer him to mature Christians, but you should also talk to him about Jesus yourselves. God put pastors, teachers, and other mature Christians in your life so you can learn from them, but He'll also help you learn from experience--from simply doing it." -Tom VandenBergHow About You?Do you realize it's not just your pastor's job to tell people about Jesus? If you know Jesus as your Savior, it's your job too! Do you think you're too young and unprepared to do that? God has put people in your life to help you. Listen carefully when your pastor, Sunday school teacher, or other Christians explain Scripture and teach you how you can share your faith with others. Then trust Jesus to help you tell others what He's done for you.Today's Key Verse:Christ himself gave…pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:11-12)Today's Key Thought:Learn to share your faith

Bible Reading: Lamentations 3:22-23; 1 John 1:7-9Olivia stared around her new bedroom in dismay. Not only were the moving boxes from their old house scattered and stacked messily around the room, but the walls were also covered in pencil drawings from the previous owner's children. Doodles, words, and plain old scribbles adorned the white walls all around her new room.Mom always told her, "If you want something, work hard for it!" So Olivia found a washcloth in one of the moving boxes, soaked it with water, and set to work on her walls. If she worked hard, she could have it clean by supper!After what felt like hours of vigorous scrubbing, Olivia sat back to examine her work. It was too much. "Mom!" she called out in frustration.Mom poked her head in. "Olivia, did you call me? And do you want tacos or hamburgers for dinner? Dad's picking it up." "Mom," Olivia said in exhaustion, "I've been scrubbing this wall as hard as I can! And I only got a tiny bit of the pencil off. It's too much work!"Mom came in and sat down on the floor beside Olivia to give her a hug. "Oh, you worked so hard! But Olivia, we're going to paint over these walls. We're going to the hardware store next week to pick out a new color for your walls, and we'll cover up all those pencil markings.""Thank goodness." Olivia sighed in relief. "There's no way I could get it all off!"Mom looked thoughtful. "Liv, that's just like what Jesus does for us. We come to Him with all kinds of sin, and He doesn't tell us we have to scrub it all off. Instead, He removes our sin and covers us with His righteousness!""I don't think I could get rid of my sin on my own," Olivia admitted, thinking about all the work she'd put into scrubbing her walls. "Nobody could," Mom said. "But Jesus gives us a fresh start every day. Even when we sin and go against God, He wants to forgive us and help us start over.""That would be like getting a new coat of paint every day!" Olivia laughed. "Yes, please! Oh, and tacos would be great." She grinned at her mom and started unpacking her boxes. -Sydney AppersonHow About You?Are you trying to scrub away the sin in your life? Trying to get rid of your sins by yourself can be exhausting, and it won't work anyway. You can't clean away the wrong things you've done, but Jesus can. He wants to give you a fresh start. Because of His death on the cross and His resurrection, those who trust in Him are covered in His righteousness, or goodness, and He offers us forgiveness whenever we sin. He renews us with new strength every day. Today's Key Verse:In him [Jesus] We have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace. (NIV) (Ephesians 1:7)Today's Key Thought:Jesus renews us every day

Theme – "The Wicked Shall Cease From Troubling" Scripture reference - Job 3:17 ESV "There the wicked cease from troubling; And there the weary are at rest."Intro and Outro Song - "We Give Thanks To Thee" by Marlene Jenkins CooperClosing Song - "The Wicked Shall Cease From Troubling" Jesse DixonI do not own the rights to the song.Scriptures mentioned in the podcast - Zechariah 8:17 Genesis 19:24 ESV, Zechariah 8:17 NIV Ephesians 6:12, ESV, II Corinthians 4:4, Psalm 5:4, Revelation 21:856 Characteristics of Wicked Peoplehttps://christianpublishinghouse.co/2020/03/11/the-character-of-the-wicked-persons-in-the-bible/

Christianity in its purest form is about loving one another deeply from the heart. Time and togetherness are huge components of building relationships, and the past three years of the pandemic have affected that. We need to evaluate how the pandemic has influenced the way we build relationships if we are going to move forward toward God's destiny for us and our friends. Watch this One Quick Thought to learn how to create a culture of friendship in which we build each other up in love. References: 1 Peter 1:22 NIV Ephesians 4:14-15 NIV What We Learned About Relationships During the Pandemic ► https://time.com/6076596/relationship-lessons-during-covid-19/ The impact of coronavirus on mental health and relationships ► https://today.yougov.com/topics/society/articles-reports/2021/04/01/personality-study-mental-health-relationships

Pastor tells us Be Supernatural infused! "We have explosive power".Revelation 12:12 (NIV)Ephesians 6:10-18 (TPT)

Sometimes our plans in life can be misdirected and net us emptiness. When we decide to live selfishly and aren't open to where God is leading us, we effectively put God “in a box” by limiting ourselves from the vast potential for light and goodness He wants to bring to our lives. Each of our guests this week had life experiences that required them to let go of their ideas of what their lives were supposed to look like so that they could grow into the plans that God had for them. Jesse Bradley admits he never thought he'd ever be a pastor. His goals were professional sports, and he achieved that success. But when his body had an allergic reaction to some medication he was taking, he had to make a shift and found God transforming him for new pursuits and new passions. Tovares and Safa Grey have—in a very short time—helped many young people navigate the world of dating and relationships. They understand that many young people feel the pressure of being in a relationship. They feel the key to staying open to what will unfold in our lives is letting go so that we don't put God in a box. This place of compromise is a scary place—a mental battleground—but it holds tremendous potential for God's goodness to manifest itself in our lives.   Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned: Jesus Calling Podcast Jesus Calling Jesus Always Jesus Listens Past interview: Nate Pyle Upcoming interview: Tamera Mowry-Housley PFR   Thank you to our sponsor, Samaritan's Purse!   Jesse Bradley Grace Community Church University of Minnesota  Golden Gophers  Dartmouth College C.S. Lewis Psalm 63:8 NIV Psalm 62:8 NIV Isaiah 41:10 NIV Every Group www.jessebradley.org    Tovares and Safa Grey Godly Dating 101 Proverbs 5 NIV Ephesians 5:25 NIV www.godlydating101.com   Interview Quotes: “The inside story is the real story and the full story. And sometimes you're the only one who knows it and God knows the inside story as well. And the outside looked like success, but the inside for me, there was emptiness.” - Jesse Bradley “Pain has been a big part of my transformation.” - Jesse Bradley “You want a godly marriage, you want a healthy marriage. But there are some people who desire a marriage because everyone else on their timeline is married.” - Tovares Grey “My advice to other young people who are dating today, don't limit God to your idea of who you think you should be with.” - Safa Grey “[God's] concerned about every single aspect of our lives. He wants us to talk to Him. He wants us to have a relationship.” - Safa Grey “At the end of the day, everything points back to God, and so we have to date with that intention in mind.” - Safa Grey ________________________ Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel! Audio Episodes:     https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7  Bonus Podcasts:     https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw  Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer:  https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C  Peace for Everyday Life:     https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj  Peace in Uncertain Times:     https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u  What's Good?     https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj  Enneagram:     https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY  ________________________  Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website  

He has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. (NIV) Ephesians 1:3

Bible Reading: Colossians 3:13; James 4:11-12"Mom, what are we having for dinner?" Clara tapped her pencil against the table. Mom turned around from stirring the big pot on the stove. "Venison and veggie stew. Do you need any help with your homework?" "I can't focus," Clara said with a groan. She scowled. "I keep thinking about what Emerson said to me."Mom sighed and headed over to the table. "Clara, your brother apologized and received a punishment--days ago. Why are you stewing over this?" "Huh? Stewing?" asked Clara. "We haven't even eaten the stew!" Mom laughed. "No, it's a homonym. Like what you're working on in school." She tapped Clara's paper. "Like a dog's bark and a tree's bark? Stew has more than one meaning. Sometimes, it can mean you're thinking about something with agitation or resentment--you're dwelling on it.""Kind of like our food stew has been in the pot for hours?" asked Clara. "And I've been dwelling on what Emerson said for days?"Mom nodded. "Here's a question for you, Clara. What has your stewing done for you?" "I guess it's made me more upset…and a little distracted," Clara admitted thoughtfully. "When we choose to focus on forgiveness and allow God to be the Judge, it softens our hearts and gives us freedom." Mom drew a heart on Clara's paper. "Even if the person who did something wrong doesn't deserve it?" Clara asked. Mom looked into Clara's eyes. "We didn't deserve Jesus's forgiveness, and yet He died on the cross for us. When I start dwelling on what someone did, I talk with Jesus and think about what He did for us. I remember the kindness and compassion He has for me and the person who hurt me. And that allows me to forgive."Clara sighed. "It's hard sometimes, but you're right. I'm making 'ew stew' in my mind and heart, and I would rather be brewing something yummy." "Like coffee?" Mom winked. "Oooh, yes, with extra sweet creamer!" Clara giggled. "Kindness and forgiveness coffee."Mom handed Clara an empty coffee cup. "Yum! I'll take some of that, please!"-Savannah ColemanHow About You?Have you ever had a hard time forgiving someone? When we find ourselves in this situation, we can remember the forgiveness God shows us through His Son, Jesus. Forgiveness means releasing your desire for revenge and giving it over to Jesus, the good Judge who will one day take care of every wrong. If you have asked Him to be your Savior, you have His power to help you forgive.* *If someone has hurt you and you're not sure how to stay safe and show forgiveness, talk to a trusted adult.Today's Key Verse:Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:32)Today's Key Thought:Forgive others as Christ forgave you

Bible Reading: Proverbs 16:24; 18:21; Ephesians 4:29Kerri and her family sat at the dining room table, playing their favorite word game. It was Kerri's turn to make a word out of the letters she had on her board. She examined her letters carefully, determined to win. Her family was very competitive.Kerri grinned as she spelled out the word quotient with her letters."Way to go, sis," Kerri's brother Austin said."That was a good group of letters, but I think I can beat that," Dad said as he spelled the word zoological with his letters.The game continued on for nearly an hour until Kerri's mom finally won with the word flamboyant."Great game!" Dad said as he gave everyone a high-five. "Now let's go into the living room for our devotions."Kerri and Austin sat on the floor. Snowflake, their white kitten, curled up on Kerri's lap, and Kerri quietly stroked her fur."Our devotion tonight just happens to be on words and how we speak to others," Dad said. He opened his Bible and began to read. "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." He looked at Kerri and Austin. "Tell me--how did Mom win the word game we played tonight?""She used the letters she got to build words, and her letters and words scored the most points," Austin replied. "Did she do that all by herself?" Dad asked.Kerri shook her head. "We all built words off letters that were already on the board, so the letters and words we put down helped her build her own words to win the game.""Right," said Dad. "That's similar to what this verse is telling us to do in our lives. Our words should build others up so that everyone benefits from them. They should reflect the love of Jesus, who was willing to sacrifice Himself for our benefit." He smiled at the kids. "Both of you used words in a way that benefited others tonight--not just the words you put on the board, but the ones that came out of your mouths too."Mom nodded. "I'm proud of the way you both played tonight--competitively but with kind words." -Lisa FullerHow About You?Do the words you say build others up? Are they beneficial and encouraging for those who hear them? Or are they often said out of anger with the intent to hurt someone? As Christians, it's important for the words we say to reflect the love of Jesus. Let your words build others up by conveying the patience, kindness, and forgiveness He shows us. Today's Key Verse:Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:29)Today's Key Thought:Build others up with your words

Bible Reading: Romans 5:1; Colossians 4:5-6; 1 Peter 3:15Amy chatted with her friend Sara as Amy's dad drove them to a youth banquet at church. It was a dress-up event, and both girls had new outfits for the occasion. "I'm so glad you could come with me tonight," Amy told Sara. "You look so nice.""Thanks--and thanks for inviting me," said Sara. "I've never been to an event at a church before. How come you go all the time?""Well, I go to worship God and learn more about Him." Amy paused, then added, "I'm a Christian--I've trusted Jesus to save me, and I love Him.""What do you mean--you trusted Him to save you? Save you from what?" asked Sara."From sin. We're all sinners--we've all done wrong things," Amy explained. "But Jesus took the punishment for our sins by dying on the cross." Their conversation was interrupted when they arrived at church. The girls waved goodbye to Dad and turned to go up the church steps.Amy glanced down at her feet and froze. "Sara," she gasped, "I forgot my shoes! I've got my old bedroom slippers on! Why didn't you tell me?""I never noticed," Sara said. She laughed as she looked at Amy's bare toes sticking out of fuzzy animal slippers. "They do look pretty funny with that outfit.""I'm not going in there like this!" said Amy. She introduced Sara to a friend, then made a quick phone call to her mom and waited at the church door for Dad to bring her good shoes."I thought you were wearing just the right shoes," Dad said when he arrived.Amy held up the slippers. "You like these silly things?" Dad laughed. "Oh, I didn't notice those, but I did notice that you were ready with an answer when Sara questioned you about your faith in Jesus. The Bible calls that having your feet 'fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.' In other words, we should always be ready to tell others about the peace and hope we have in Jesus. That's so much more important than wearing dressy shoes with your new outfit."Dad gave Amy a hug. "Have fun tonight," he said. "We'll be praying for you and for Sara.""Thanks, Dad," said Amy. "And thanks for bringing my shoes too." -Hazel W. MarettHow About You?Are you ready at any time to share your faith with others? That may mean talking to someone about Jesus. It may mean explaining what you believe or why you do--or don't do--certain things. Always be prepared to let others know you belong to Jesus and have His peace in your heart--and that they can have it too.Today's Key Verse:Stand firm…with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. (NIV) (Ephesians 6:14-15)Today's Key Thought:Be ready to share your faith

We all have a spirit inside of us – the spirit of flesh – but God has sent another Spirit to battle against it. In this message, Chase Gardner teaches about the Holy Spirit and how we can be in a relationship with Him. But we can't just sense the Holy Spirit, we have to surrender to Him and that will truly set us free. Message Notes:God can do more than we can imagine in our lives even when we fail and feel defeated.In the past, God would sometimes place His people inside of His presence; but now, God places His presence inside of His people. There is a battle going on inside of us between the Spirit and the flesh. Romans 8:5-9, 12-14 (NIV) The most important thing you can do the moment you start following Christ is to cultivate a relationship with the Spirit. Who is the Spirit of God? The Holy Spirit is a person. How do we cultivate a relationship with the Holy Spirit?1) Welcome Him. Genesis 6:3 (NIV) Ephesians 4:30 (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:19 (NIV) Hebrews 10:29 (ESV) The Spirit hates sharing your heart with something else. When God moves in, other things have to move out. The Spirit doesn't remove things from your life. He just defeats them. 2) Commune with Him.When you stop being indifferent to the Holy Spirit, you'll start being different due to the Holy Spirit. 3) Walk with Him. Amos 3:3 (NLT) It's not sensing but surrendering to the Spirit that makes all the difference. “I will welcome the Spirit and follow His lead.”---If you'd like to download your Battle Cry Card, click here: https://bit.ly/3apiJmWFor more information about our Hope Where You Are campaign, visit https://gethope.net/hwya/If you're new to Hope or looking to get connected, click here: https://gethope.net/next/ If you've just made a decision for Christ, please respond here: https://bit.ly/3aWvIZN To support this ministry financially to help us continue to love people where they are and encourage them to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ, click here: https://gethope.net/give/ Subscribe to receive our latest messages: https://bit.ly/2XBbBxq Stay Connected with Hope:Website: https://gethope.net/Hope Community Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gethopecommunitychurchHope Community Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get_hope/ Hope Community Church Twitter: https://twitter.com/get_hopeHope Community Church YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/HopeCommunityChurch

Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:12-13"Cal, you've worn that WWJD bracelet for years and years, haven't you?" Everly asked her older brother, eyeing his bracelet with distaste."I got it the first year I went to camp," Cal replied. "It used to be blue with 'WWJD' spelled out in white letters. They told us that whenever we saw those letters we should ask ourselves, 'What would Jesus do?'" "Well, if Jesus had that bracelet, I think He'd take it off," Everly said. "You know the whole WWJD trend is pretty much over now. Mom said when she was a kid they used to see those letters on all kinds of stuff. But you don't see them much anymore--if ever." "I guess that's true," said Cal. "But wearing this has helped me. Sometimes just when I was getting ready to do something wrong, I'd see the bracelet and think, No, Jesus wouldn't do that." "That's good, but times change," said Everly. "I think it's time to get rid of that old thing."Cal twisted the bracelet around his wrist. "These letters have always been a good reminder to do the right thing. But…" He grinned at his sister as he pulled off the old, faded bracelet. "There! Does that make you feel better?" "Yes. Only…" Everly hesitated. "If it helped you so much, maybe you should keep wearing it after all."Cal shook his head. "I really don't need to wear it anymore.""Think so?" Everly laughed. "Well, if you start getting into trouble with it off, don't blame me!"Cal smiled. "I won't, because I have something better to wear now--in fact, it's something I've had ever since I first trusted in Jesus at camp all those years ago. The bracelet just helped me remember. When I trusted Jesus as my Savior, He made me a new person, and He gave me the Holy Spirit, who is making me more like Him. Pastor Tim talked about the Bible verse that says to 'put on the new self,' remember? He said that means living in a way that reflects who I am in Jesus. I don't need a bracelet to do what's right because I have God's Spirit living inside of me."Everly grinned. "I agree. The new self is much better than the old bracelet!" -Dalan DeckerHow About You?Have you ever seen the letters WWJD printed on something? Those letters stand for "What would Jesus do?" It used to be trendy to have them on bracelets and other items, but like all trends, that one has faded away. However, if you know Jesus, you don't need a bracelet or anything else to help you act like Him because you have His Spirit inside you! Put on your new self and live in a way that reflects Him. Today's Key Verse:Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:24)Today's Key Thought:Live in a way that reflects Jesus