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This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body and refocus your mind to experience the reality of God's presence. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  Acts 17:25 NIV “…He himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.” Acts 17:28 NIV “For in him we live and move and have our being.” Psalm 25:6-7 ESV 6 Remember your mercy, O LORD, and your steadfast love, for they have been from of old. 7 Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for the sake of your goodness, O LORD! Psalm 25:11 ESV “For your name's sake, O LORD, pardon my guilt, for it is great.” Psalm 25:18 ESV “Consider my affliction and my trouble, and forgive all my sins.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body and refocus your mind to experience the reality of God's presence. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  Acts 17:25 NIV “…He himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.” Acts 17:28 NIV “For in him we live and move and have our being.” Psalm 25:6-7 ESV 6 Remember your mercy, O LORD, and your steadfast love, for they have been from of old. 7 Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for the sake of your goodness, O LORD! Psalm 25:11 ESV “For your name's sake, O LORD, pardon my guilt, for it is great.” Psalm 25:18 ESV “Consider my affliction and my trouble, and forgive all my sins.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.

Called to HOLINESS #2 We must seek a level of holiness that brings the Glory of God into our lives. Discuss what is Holiness: Holiness is not: Being perfect, never sinning, never being tempted to sin its: To be different Set apart To fulfill His purpose To live our lives in a way that reflects God's glory John 1:14(Amp) – And the word (Christ) became flesh (human, incarnate) and tabernacled (fixed His tent of flesh, lived awhile) among us; and we [actually] saw His glory (His honour, His majesty), such glory as an only begotten son receives from his father, full of grace (favour, loving-kindness) and truth.   Ephesians 1:4 (NIV) - For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love    Glory of God is prioritizing His honor, beauty, and magnificence above all else in your life. It involves aligning your actions, words, and thoughts with His will and purpose, ultimately reflecting His character and demonstrating His love and power to the world. It means choosing to glorify Goid in all you do, rather than seeking personal glory or recognition. This might involve saying no to opportunities that would bring you praise but not glorify God.   John 5:44 - How is it possible for you to believe [how can you learn to believe], you who [are content to seek and] receive praise and honor and glory from one another, and yet do not seek the praise and honor and glory which come from Him Who alone is God? This is a Crossroad scripture - Start good, end bad   Galatians 3:2-3 - “I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard? 3 Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?   For so many Christians: They display a spirituality to impress man – compromising your values and principles to fit in with the ungodly. Seeking honor and recognition from others – wanting validation from man. Living to appear righteous As long as you are being patted, recognized, praised and fussed about and the honor and glory is flowing then… you are a happy Christian. Can one honestly say you are walking near to God when your motivation is the praise of man?   Here's a clear sign: We know we are relating correctly to God when our hunger for His glory makes us forsake the praise of man. Greek for Glory is “Doxa”:  Glory is: to please – to be of a good reputation – to give honor – full of grace – love – kindness and truth Hebrew for Glory is “Kavod”.  To show much splendor [prag, praal]. “A life of Holiness” is seeking to please God and seek His Glory.    John 5:44 – how is it possible for you to believe, when you thrive on being recognized and praised by one another. Jesus said it – Luke 16:15 -“He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God's sight. Who are you really trying to impress? When we truly desire a life of holiness – seeking God, no one will have to tell us to be humble, to convince us of our old natures – Colossians 3:2-7 - 2 Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. 3 For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 And when Christ, who is your[a] life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory. 5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don't be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. 6 Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. 7 You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world.   Holiness comes from seeking His Glory - here's the promise:   If you take time to meet with God, you will meet Him Jeremiah 29:13 (Amp) - “Then you will seek me, enquire for, and require me (as a vital necessity) and find me when you search for me with all your heart.” Psalm 27:8(Amp) – you have said, seek my face (enquire for and require my presence as your vital need) my heart says to you your face (your presence) Lord will I seek. As you touch Him, something will come alive in you.  Your life will become significant. You'll become effective in all you do and say. People will be drawn to Jesus because of you. We are talking about “Called to Holiness”. The sad thing is many Christians have NO higher goal, NO greater aspiration than to live a normal in-effective, fairly boring Christian life. 1 Corinthians 3:3 – Paul rebuked the church in Corinth because they walked “LIKE mere man”. (A holy life is a set apart life) He asks – where is the holiness – difference?. Listen – God has so much more for us than just becoming better people. Romans 8:11 – He wants to flood our lives with the same power that raised Christ from the dead. If we are going to be Holy, we must break away from desiring just an average life. We must seek a level of Holiness that brings the Glory of God into our lives. Jonathan Edwards – 18th century revivalist: ”Grace is but glory begun, and glory is but grace perfected.” The means to holiness is grace.  Holiness is a product of grace. You may be thinking, I'll never achieve this teaching in my condition.  Then you have only heard half the message. Grace is in the heart of all Gods' truth.  Truth without grace is only half-true. John 1:17 - Grace and truth are in JESUS. For while the law was given through Moses, grace (unearned, undeserved favor and spiritual blessing) and truth came through Jesus Christ. What God's truth demands, His grace will provide. Romans 6:22 – But now since you have been set free from sin and have become the slaves of God, you have your present reward in Holiness and its end is eternal life. “Holiness is a lifestyle” Seeking to walk close to the Glory of God.  Holiness is doing all within one's power to become more like Jesus. 2 Corinthians 3:18(Amp) – And all of us, as with unveiled face [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from on degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit.  

Finding Jesus in Unexpected Places // The Human Womb Isaiah 7:14 (NIV)“Therefore, the Lord himself shall give you a sign: Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. (God with us)” Isaiah 9:6-7 (NIV)“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.” Colossians 2:9 (NIV)“For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form.” Colossians 1:15-22 (NIV)“The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation.” Isaiah 40:12,15 (NLT)“Who else has held the oceans in his hand? Who has measured off the heavens with his fingers? Who else knows the weight of the earth or has weighed the mountains and hills on a scale? … For all the nations of the world are but a drop in the bucket. They are nothing more than dust on the scales. He picks up the whole earth as though it were a grain of sand.” John 1:1-4 (NLT)“In the beginning, the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone.”     Luke 1:30-39 (NIV)“But the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacobʼs descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.' ‘How will this be,' Mary asked the angel, ‘since I am a virgin?' The angel answered, ‘The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.' ‘I am the Lordʼs servant,” Mary answered. ‘May your word to me be fulfilled.' Then the angel left her. At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea.” Luke 1:41-42 (NIV)“When Elizabeth heard Maryʼs greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!'” Luke 1:44-45 (NIV)“As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” Hebrews 4:15-16 (AMP)“For we do not have a High Priest who is unable to sympathize and understand our weaknesses and temptations, but One who has been tempted [knowing exactly how it feels to be human] in every respect as we are, yet without [committing any] sin. Therefore let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God's gracious favor] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment].”  John 1:14 (NIV)The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14 (MSG)“The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son.” John 1:9-11 (NIV)“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.” 

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body and refocus your mind to experience the reality of God's presence. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Acts 17:25 NIV “...He himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.” Acts 17:28 NIV “For in him we live and move and have our being.” Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV 8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. 9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body and refocus your mind to experience the reality of God's presence. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Acts 17:25 NIV “...He himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.” Acts 17:28 NIV “For in him we live and move and have our being.” Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV 8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. 9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.

Luke 6:31 NIV Do to others as you would have them do to you.Proverbs 11:24 - 25 NIV One person gives freely, yet gains even more; anotherwithholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoeverrefreshes others will be refreshed.Turn your Need into Seed.1 Kings 17:7-16 Eventually the brook dried up because of the drought. Then GODspoke to him: “Get up and go to Zarephath in Sidon and live there. I've instructeda woman who lives there, a widow, to feed you.” 10-11 So he got up and went toZarephath. As he came to the entrance of the village he met a woman, a widow,gathering firewood. He asked her, “Please, would you bring me a little water in ajug? I need a drink.” As she went to get it, he called out, “And while you're at it,would you bring me something to eat?” 12 She said, “I swear, as surely as yourGOD lives, I don't have so much as a biscuit. I have a handful of flour in a jar and alittle oil in a bottle; you found me scratching together just enough firewood tomake a last meal for my son and me. After we eat it, we'll die.” 13-14 Elijah saidto her, “Don't worry about a thing. Go ahead and do what you've said. But firstmake a small biscuit for me and bring it back here. Then go ahead and make ameal from what's left for you and your son. This is the word of the GOD of Israel:‘The jar of flour will not run out and the bottle of oil will not become empty beforeGOD sends rain on the land and ends this drought.'” 15-16 And she went right offand did it, did just as Elijah asked. And it turned out as he said—daily food for herand her family. The jar of meal didn't run out and the bottle of oil didn't becomeempty: GOD's promise fulfilled to the letter, exactly as Elijah had delivered it!God asks for what you are holding, not what you are missing.Your need is not just something to survive, it's something to sow.Proverbs 18: 20-21 NIV From the fruit of their mouth a person's stomach is filled;with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied. The tongue has the power of lifeand death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.If You want to change the satisfaction of your life, change the declaration ofyour lips.Luke 6:45b NIV For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.Trust God's timing - Don't give up!Galatians 6:9 So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time wewill reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up.

Text: Luke 19:1-10; various;Theme: Our mission is HIS mission. As we get closer to Easter weekend, we want to make sure we're serious about being ALL IN when it comes to bringing people to Jesus. And by the way, it's ok if you're friends are a little messy.Memory Verse: Luke 19:10 (NIV) “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”Message Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49410285

In this episode, we explore Hebrews 13:5, which reminds us to keep our lives free from the love of money and to find contentment in God's unwavering presence. We discuss how challenging it can be to feel secure and content during turbulent times, especially when unexpected financial pressures arise. Drawing from the experiences of early Christians facing persecution, we reflect on the importance of trusting in God's promises and how His presence brings power, provision, and peace. We'll also look at Old Testament examples that illustrate God’s faithfulness, and share practical steps for deepening our relationship with Him during difficult seasons. Learn how to overcome feelings of doubt and anxiety by focusing on the truths of God’s character and past faithfulness. Join the Conversation:We want to hear from you! How do you cultivate contentment in your life? What strategies help you remember God’s faithfulness during tough times? Share your thoughts and experiences with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. Let’s encourage each other as we navigate our faith journeys together!

Immeasurably More// Faith Under Fire// March 30, 2025Ephesians 6:10-20 (NIV)“Finally, BE STRONG in the Lord and in the strength of HIS MIGHT. Put on the full armor of God so we can take our stand against the devil's schemes because our battle is not against flesh and blood but against rulers and against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (NIV)“For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does…On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”Isaiah 59:14-17 (NIV)“So, justice is driven back, and righteousness stands at a distance; truth has stumbled in the streets, honesty cannot enter. Truth is nowhere to be found, and whoever shuns evil becomes a prey. The Lord looked and was displeased that there was no justice. He saw that there was no one, he was appalled that there was no one to intervene, so his own arm achieved salvation for him, and his own righteousness sustained him. He put on righteousness as his breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on his head; he put on the garments of vengeance and wrapped himself in zeal as in a cloak.” The armor is about confidence in God's ability to hold all those elements of the armor true and together.  The Helmet is His Salvation Isaiah 12:2 (NIV)“Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.” Ephesians 2:8 (NIV)“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”   The Breastplate is His RighteousnessPhilippians 3:8-9 (NIV)“What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.” The Belt is His TruthPsalm 33:4 (KJV)“For the word of the LORD is right, and all His work is done in truth.” Ephesians 4:14 (NIV)“Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.” The Sword of the Spirit is His WordHebrews 4:12 (NIV) “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”  The Shoes are His Gospel of PeaceIsaiah 52:7 (NIV)“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!” The gospel is meant to be peace with God and peace with one another. The Shield of FaithFaith is deliberate confidence in the character of God.Faith is not about my ability to believe but it's about His ability to BE.His unfailing character and person.  Faith is not about my ability to believe but it's about His ability to BE.  John 14:26,27 (NIV)“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you…Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”  

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalms 90:12 NIV “ For the average man you've got about 4000 weeks of life.”- Dr Jerry Rabalais, U of L professor of school of medicine 29,000 days. 4,000 weeks. 960 months. That's the average for the man that lives to be 80 years old. We're not guaranteed tomorrow, but most men will live to be at or around 80 years old. What purpose are you living for and how do you reach a life of fulfillment and number of our days from a biblical perspective? On this week show, university of Louisville medical professor, Dr. Jerry Rabalais talks with Kurt and Chad about how to live with purpose and longevity in mind. More than just how's your blood pressure, what are the things that contribute to a man living a long and fulfilling life? Topics include: -How impactful loneliness is in a person longevity -The relationship between longevity and close relationships -A 30 year Harvard study that can be summed up in 3 words. (It's something that Jesus taught 2000 years ago.)

The Beatitudes, Pt. 6 | March 23, 2025Pastor Wes Morris Matthew 5:8 (NIV) Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.Katharos: clean, clear, and free from contamination.Purity: Undivided devotion√ EXTERNAL PRESSURESI John 2:16 (NIV) For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.√ INTERNAL STRUGGLES√ SMALL COMPROMISESSong of Solomon 2:15 (NLT) Catch all the foxes, those little foxes, before they ruin the vineyard of love, for the grapevines are blossoming!√ SPIRITUAL WARFAREI Peter 5:8 (NLT) Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.A PASSION FOR PURITYI. DON'T CONCEAL IT, CONFESS IT.Proverbs 28:13 (NLT) People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.You are only as strong as you are honest. II. DON'T JUST FIGHT IT, FLEE FROM IT.II Timothy 2:20-22 (NIV) In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.I Corinthians 6:18 (NIV) Run from sexual sin! No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does.III. IF YOU FALL, KEEP GETTING BACK UP. Isaiah 1:18 (NIV) The Lord says, “Now, let's settle the matter. You are stained red with sin, but I will wash you as clean as snow. Although your stains are deep red, you will be as white as wool.Proverbs 24:16 (NLT) The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again.

The ethical* /[gedragsnorme] effect By Pastor George Lehman   Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make a man a more clever devil. C.S. Lewis Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.  - Aristotle The revelation must become the application. Ethical =Relating to beliefs about what is moral or principles of right and wrong. A positive or negative impact on decisions we make (our behavior values) Unethical = unprincipled, dishonorable, corrupt James 2:14-26 (NIV) – 14 What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? 15 Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.  18 But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.”  Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. 19 You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. 20 You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? 21 Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. 23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God's friend. 24 You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone. 25 In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? 26 As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead. We regularly, in the news, hear reports of some or other effect - the effect of global warming, the effect on the world economy and the effect of poverty. The church faces its own effect that can be called the “ethical effect” (principles of right and wrong) or……as James puts it, “A faith without fruit”. As the world watches, too many Christians profess one thing but practice another. A counterfeit faith produces no genuine fruit. The result is, the church has little influence on the world today, even while we are proclaiming our faith. While so many places and in so many ways, the church is losing its voice as the culture suffers from this ethical effect. An integrity or credibility crisis is running rampant in every aspect of society. The ethical effect has touched government, politics, business, law, sports and yes, unfortunately, religion. The ethical effect has brought down high-profile individuals in every professional field. Our world needs people whose lives match their lips and whose walk matches their talk. As we journey with James through this section of verses, we come to what is called a contentious subject. From time to time over the past twenty centuries this debate has flared up. James 2:14-26 is like a boxing ring where the so-called learned have put James and Paul in the ring. Paul with the emphasis on FAITH! James with the emphasis on WORKS! In this corner we have the apostle Paul wearing the GRACE trunks. His claim: Ephesians 2:8 (NIV) – For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God In the other corner we have James wearing the WORKS trunks. James 2:18 (NIV) – But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.”  Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. Make no mistake about it, the Bible plainly teaches that our eternal salvation rests entirely on God's grace through our faith in the finished work of Christ. Salvation is a free gift of God to everyone who will receive it. The bible also says that true, saving faith will always result in good works. NB! After all, how could the living Christ come live in our life and not make any difference in the way you think, act and speak. This whole debate hinges on the failure of some to make a clear distinction between… The REQUIREMENT for true salvation and The RESULT of true salvation. Good work is never a requirement for salvation but they are certainly the result. People who have passed from death to life; from darkness to light. Whose sins have been forgiven; who have become a new creation in Christ. They can't help but see the world differently and respond accordingly. With passion, enthusiasm, a fire to purity and proclaim the Gospel! In the FAITH versus WORKS debate… People tend to gravitate toward the extremes. Some over-emphasize the faith aspect while completely neglecting the fact that it should result in good works. Faith not works school of thought: You pray a simpler sinner's prayer - have no change of lifestyle. Develop no real desire to pray - hardly ready your bible. Exhibit zero desire for spiritual things yet still saved because you ‘believed'. It's called easy Christianity. Faith or works: Their understanding is if you have faith, that's fine with them or if you do good works in your community, that's also fine. They trust faith or works will get them to this perfect place. The ones who believe in a works salvation somehow think there's a way to earn our way into eternal life. James revealed to us the code we need to understand the relationship of faith and works. Paul and James complement, NOT contradict each other. Here it is: Salvation is not about faith and works.  It's about a FAITH that WORKS. If you can grasp this simple sentence, you will understand the heart of the issue.   The church today desperately needs to rediscover a faith that works. Christianity is a faith that demands a response not just a nod of the head. A faith that bears fruit. After all, a faith that has no fruit is a false faith. To have an ethical effect on the world we need to live out a faith that works. Jeremiah 17:10 (NIV) – “I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve.”  

What is it like to raise children in the middle of a war? In this special episode, Karen sits down with Kimmie Saado, an American mom raising her five kids in Israel, to hear about the realities of life during conflict. From sirens and safe rooms to worshiping through fear, Kimmie shares how faith has anchored her family in uncertain times. Listen in as she encourages moms to raise up the next generation of Daniels—children who stand firm in faith, no matter the circumstances.Episode Recap:1:26- Kimmie is an American mom raising five kids in Israel3:03- How Kimmie and Sahar met and challenges of cross-cultural dating/engagement7:50- What it's like to lead a Bible tour company in Israel13:20- Karen and Kimmie's favorite places in Israel15:45- what has it been like to raise children in a conflict zone?19:39- how Kimmie's son led their family in worship during moments of fear.22:30- how faith-filled habits help equip our kids and others to stand firm in faith.24:31- what does it mean to be a “Daniel”?28:15- what Kimmie and Sahar are doing in the States this year30:00- how Americans can pray and support the Jewish people right now37:30- we have made God so small and our problems so bigScripture for Reflection: 2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV)“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”Questions for Discussion:Kimmie shared a vivid story about responding to a bombing by shouting a Bible verse and also, how her son responded to bombing sirens with worship. How do you model turning to your faith in scary times? Do your kids get to witness that? What does it mean to raise a "Daniel" in today's world? How can we instill resilience and faith in our children?Kimmie and her husband took intentional steps to prepare for challenges before those challenges arrived. How can we spiritually equip our families before trials come?Kimmie spoke about finding peace in God's presence, even in uncertainty. What are some practical ways we can cultivate that kind of faith in our own lives?Resources:Last chance to register for the Soar Conference! Don't procrastinate another day: https://subsplash.com/birdsonawire-ga/lb/ev/+j2j9wpqCheck out Kimmie and Sahar's company: Israel Bible Tours: https://www.israelbibletours.com/

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body, refocus your mind, and to re-imagine and re-narrate your life to a truer reality. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Psalm 73:21-24 NIV 21 When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered, 22 I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before you. 23 Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. 24 You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. 2 Corinthians 4:17 NIV “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” Philippians 3:20-21 NIV “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located. 

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body, refocus your mind, and to re-imagine and re-narrate your life to a truer reality. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Psalm 73:21-24 NIV 21 When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered, 22 I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before you. 23 Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. 24 You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. 2 Corinthians 4:17 NIV “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” Philippians 3:20-21 NIV “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located. 

This Sunday, we will reflect on the importance of family and legacy and recall the wise words from Matthew 6:21 (NIV): "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." It is important not to forget the true treasures that make our lives richer—our families and the values we pass down. Let us invest our hearts in what truly matters. If you are new to Community Church, WELCOME! We would love to get to know you. Please fill in the following form and we look forward to connecting with you: https://bit.ly/cc-new-connect You can find all timely and relevant links from this service on https://bit.ly/cc-links You can also find out more about us at https://communitychurch.hk/ ================ This Week's Scripture: // Deuteronomy 6:4–7 // Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

Pastor Jon Verwey Cleansed by the blood of the Lamb 02/09/25 I will set my face against any Israelite or any foreigner residing among them who eats blood, and I will cut them off from the people. — Leviticus 17:10 (NIV) For the life of a creature is in the blood… — Leviticus 17:11a (NIV)  […]

Welcome to the podcast! In this episode, I discuss the vital importance of forgiveness in achieving true freedom and liberation. Forgiving others not only heals our hearts but also releases us from the burdens of anger and resentment, allowing us to reclaim our peace and strength.  It frees us from the enemy and allows to so grow closer to God for his Plan and Provision to be received. Join Me as I explore how embracing forgiveness can lead to profound personal transformation, helping us break free from the chains that hold us back. My hope today is that this helps you release the strongholds that might be upon you so that you may enter a space of freedom through God's works.

Christmas Eve – No More Darkness  Isaiah 8:21-22 (NIV)“Distressed and hungry, they will roam through the land; when they are famished, they will become enraged and, looking upward, will curse their king and their God. Then they will look toward the earth and see only distress and darkness and fearful gloom, and they will be thrust into utter darkness.” Isaiah 9:2,6 (NIV)“The people walking in darknesshave seen a great light;on those living in the land of deep darknessa light has dawned…For to us a child is born,to us a son is given.” Luke 2:8-10 (NIV)“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”  The Light of Christ:  1.Reveals the Truth about God and Salvation.  John 12:46 (NIV)“I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.” John 18:37 (NIV)“The reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth.” John 14:6 (NIV)“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 8:32 (NLT)“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 2.Seeks and Saves the Lost.   Luke 19:10 (NIV)“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Matthew 20:28 (NIV)“The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”   3.Illuminates Your Path and Guides Your Steps.  John 8:12 (NLT)“I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness.”  4.Brings Healing in Your Life.  Luke 4:18 (NIV)“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisonersand recovery of sight for the blind,to set the oppressed free.” Psalm 147:3 (NIV)“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” John 1:4-5 (NIV)“In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” 

Pastor Angela shares a message on biblical remembrance. Deuteronomy 4:9 NIV Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Judges 2:10 NIV And all that generation also were gathered to their fathers. And there arose another generation after them who did not know the Lord or the work that he had done for Israel.  1 Corinthians 1:5-7 NIV For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge—God thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. 1 Corinthians 10:11 NLT These things happened to them as examples for us. They were written down to warn us who live at the end of the age.  Deuteronomy 4:9 NIV Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. To forget a person is to lose touch with the story of the relationship and all it meant in the past and should still mean now. - Christopher J. H. Wright “To be without a story is to live without any sort of script that might help us to know who we are and what we're about. We flail and meander. We frantically try on roles and identities to see if they fit… to see yourself in the story is to have a name, a backstory, a project - all of which serve as rails to run on, something stable and given we can count on.” - James K. A. Smith Romans 12:1-2 NIV Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Christmas at Bay Chapel Pt. 2 | December 8, 2024Pastor Wes Morris Philippians 4:4-9 (NIV) Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.√ The battle for peace begins in our minds. Philippians 4:8 (NIV) Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.Isaiah 26:3 (NLT) You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!Proverbs 3:5 (NIV) Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding... √ Peace isn't the absence of problems, it's the presence of Jesus. Philippians 4:9 (NIV) And the God of peace will be with you.Psalm 23:4 (GNT) Even if I go through the deepest darkness, I will not be afraid, Lord, for you are with me. Your shepherd's rod and staff protect me.John 14:27 (NLT) I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid. THE PROMISE OF PEACE I. WALK IN THE WAYS OF GOD. Philippians 4:8 (NIV) Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice.Proverbs 16:7 (NLT) When people's lives please the Lord, even their enemies are at peace with them.II. SUBMIT TO THE WILL OF GOD.Isaiah 9:6 (NIV) For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Sar: Lord, chief, general, the one in charge.Shalom: Rest, tranquility, wholeness, contentment.  I Peter 5:6-7 (NLT) So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.III. OPERATE IN THE POWER OF GOD.Psalm 46:1-2 (NLT) God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea.Psalm 29:11 (GNT) The Lord gives strength to his people and blesses them with peace.Next Steps: Click here to join the Advent reading plan.

*DISCLAIMER* This episode includes adult content and is not intended for young ears. Story of Healing from Sexual Betrayal in Marriage: An Interview with Bonny Burns Luke 8:17 (NIV) "For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open." Questions We Discuss: Will you share your journey with us? Will you teach us what we may not be aware of for people who struggle with pornography addiction? What are lies or myths women are tempted to believe when they have been sexually betrayed? Bonny Burns is an APSATS certified partner coach (Association of Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialists, apsats.org.) She has been writing and researching God's design of sexual intimacy since 2012 on the blog OysterBed7.com and has been speaking about godly sexual intimacy on the popular podcast, forchristianwives.com. She can also be found at strongwives.com. Strong Wives Website Sex Chats for Christian Wives Podcast Bonny Burns' Website Bonny Burns on Facebook Book with Bonny as your Coach Thank You to Our Sponsors: Chick-fil-A East Peoria and The Savvy Sauce Charities (and donate online here)   Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.” Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.” John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.” Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.” Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“ Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“ Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

Have you ever experienced a season when God felt distant, while your heart was aching to hear from him? Friends, you are not alone. Today, Stasi Eldredge is joined by Karen Christakis and Amber Sales – from the Wild at Heart Women's Team – for an honest and encouraging conversation about what his silence might mean, why it happens, and how it might actually be a sign of His good and deeper work in you. Join us as we share from the scriptures and our own experiences of what we've learned living through silent seasons about our own hearts and the heart of our faithful God.…..SHOW NOTES:…..REGISTER for Ablaze: Setting Hearts on Fire for Jesus – wildatheart.org/ablazeAblaze is an exclusive six-week online journey, beginning Tuesday, January 14, 2025For more information and to register, visit wildatheart.org/ablazeVERSES: Psalm 27:14 (NIV) — Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.Job 30:20 (NIV) — I cry out to you, God, but you do not answer; I stand up, but you merely look at me.Psalm 28:1 (NIV) — To you, Lord, I call; you are my Rock, do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you remain silent, I will be like those who go down to the pit.Psalm 83:1 (NIV) — O God, do not remain silent; do not turn a deaf ear, do not stand aloof, O God.Psalm 22:1–2 (NIV) — My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest.Psalm 42:1–2 (NIV) — As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?Exodus 20:3 (NIV) — You shall have no other gods before me.Genesis 1:1–2 (NIV) — In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.Psalm 19:1 (NIV) — The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.Romans 1:20 (NIV) — For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.Ephesians 1:18 (NIV) — 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, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people,Isaiah 49:15 (NIV) — Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!…..RESOURCES:Big Idea Inspiration from Mark Comer Teachings: The Dark Night of the Soul – Naming Your Stage of Apprenticeship E6  https://wahe.art/4eE4WE1Pause App:  https://www.pauseapp.com/Quote: from A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis – “God has not been trying an experiment on my faith or love in order to find out their quality. He knew it already. It was I who didn't.”  …..Don't Miss Out on the Next Episode – Subscribe for FreeSubscribe using your favorite podcast app:Spotify Podcasts – https://spoti.fi/42SsOipApple Podcasts – https://apple.co/42E0oZ1 Google Podcasts – http://wahe.art/3M81kxLAmazon Music & Audible – https://amzn.to/3M9u6hJ

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body, refocus your mind, and to re-imagine and re-narrate your life to a truer reality. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Philippians 3:11-14 NIV 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. 12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6 NIV “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:13 NIV “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body, refocus your mind, and to re-imagine and re-narrate your life to a truer reality. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Philippians 3:11-14 NIV 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. 12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6 NIV “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:13 NIV “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.

Welcome to "Love is the Only Thing," a transformative podcast where Ben dives deep into the heart of what it means to love through trials, triumphs, and everything in between.  Ben explores the profound wisdom found in scripture, reminding us that love isn't just important—it's the only thing that truly counts. Join us as we unpack the complexities of loving well in a world often divided by conflict and strife. Discover how to forgive, support one another, and live harmoniously, all while understanding the importance of sharing each other's burdens. Whether you're seeking to deepen your faith or find practical ways to embody love in your relationships, this podcast is for you. Tune in and learn how to make love your guiding principle—because love truly is the only thing that matters.   Sermon notes: Love isn't the main thing, it's the only thing. ...The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. ‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬  “For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another.”‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭NLT‬‬ “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!” ‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭NLT‬‬ “Owe nothing to anyone—except for your obligation to love one another. If you love your neighbor, you will fulfill the requirements of God's law.”‭‭Romans‬ ‭13‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬ “Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭14‬ ‭NLT‬‬ “Don't just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. When God's people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you. Don't curse them; pray that God will bless them. Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with each other. Don't be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don't think you know it all! Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.” Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭9‬-‭10‬, ‭13‬-‭21‬ ‭NLT‬‬ “Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Share each other's burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important.” Galatians‬ ‭6‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭NLT‬ “I am not overstating it when I say that the man who caused all the trouble hurt all of you more than he hurt me. Most of you opposed him, and that was punishment enough. Now, however, it is time to forgive and comfort him. Otherwise he may be overcome by discouragement. So I urge you now to reaffirm your love for him.” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬-‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬ “Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭32‬ ‭NLT‬‬  

244. Stories Series: Medical Marvels with Carolyn Henricks   2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (NIV) "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."   Carolyn Henricks is married to Gary, mother to four married adult children, and grandmother to ten. She retired from her career as Pediatric Quality Coordinator at OSF St. Francis and now spends time volunteering in various capacities.   Questions We Discuss:   What was it that drew you to a saving faith in Jesus Christ? What medical complications did your third son walk through? Do you have any wisdom to share first about parenting adult children?   Thank You to Our Sponsor: Leman Property Management Company   Connect with The Savvy Sauce through Our Website   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)   Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”  

A great leader is contagiously forward-thinking with a fresh vision despite the history of hard times. Nehemiah had a humble boldness, and because of that, he could ask others to partner with him. He did so because courage is not the absence of fear but moving ahead despite fear. A great leader is contagiously forward-thinking with a fresh vision despite the history of hard times. Nehemiah had a humble boldness, and because of that, he could ask others to partner with him. He did so because courage is not the absence of fear but moving ahead despite fear. "The king said to me, 'What is it you want?' Then I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king, 'If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so that I can rebuild it.'" (Nehemiah 2:4-5 NIV) For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Plug of the Day: God, Grace, & Faith“The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him;”‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭23‬ ‭NIV‬‬For more prayers, download the PrayerPlug mobile app --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/prayerplug/support

The Plug of the Day : Fire & Desire“May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.”‭‭Psalms‬ ‭20‬:‭4‬ ‭NIV‬‬For more prayers, download the PrayerPlug mobile app

Stasi invites friend, speaker, and teacher Cherie Snyder into the studio to explore the precious truth that we are all welcomed into God's family—a family that transcends time and space. The Bible is an endless treasure of wisdom and invitation, constantly revealing fresh truths based on our current journey. Through its rich stories, the Bible invites us to be part of the personal connection its authors had with Jesus and each other. We are part of His Story, rescued from isolation into secure connection to God's heart and an eternal global family.…..SHOW NOTES:…..VERSES: Romans 8:29  (NIV) — For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.2 Timothy 1:5  (NIV) — I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.1 Peter 5:13  (NIV) — She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you her greetings, and so does my son Mark.Matthew 16:23  (NIV) — Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.Mark 16:8  (NIV) — Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid.1 Corinthians 9:27  (NIV) — No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.Genesis 3:19  (NIV) — By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.Ezekiel 39:29  (NLT) — And I will never again turn my face from them, for I will pour out my Spirit upon the people of Israel. I, the Sovereign Lord, have spoken!  Matthew 9:36–38  (NIV) — When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.Philippians 1:8  (NIV) — God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.1 Thessalonians 2:7-8  (NIV) — Instead, we were like young children[a] among you. Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.John 2:24  (NIV) — But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people.…..RESOURCES:Beautiful Outlaw: Experiencing the Playful, Disruptive, Extravagant Personality of Jesus by John Eldredge https://amzn.to/4dFyf8ACaptivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul by John and Stasi Eldredgehttps://wahe.art/3L9tLMcTodd Pierce (horse ministry)  RidingHighMinistries.org…..Don't Miss Out on the Next Episode – Subscribe for FreeSubscribe using your favorite podcast app:Spotify Podcasts – https://spoti.fi/42SsOipApple Podcasts – https://apple.co/42E0oZ1 Google Podcasts – http://wahe.art/3M81kxLAmazon Music & Audible – https://amzn.to/3M9u6hJ

The Plug of the Day: Released & Increased“Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them. Then he gave them to the disciples to distribute to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.”‭‭Luke‬ ‭9‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬For more prayers, download the PrayerPlug mobile app. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/prayerplug/support

242. Stories Series: He Gives and Takes Away with Joyce Hodel   Philippians 1:21 (NIV) "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain."   Questions and Topics We Discuss: What are some of your highlights of raising children and parenting? Will you share how life unexpectedly and drastically changed on July 3rd, 2009? How has God sustained you through this loss?   Other Episode Mentioned  on The Savvy Sauce: 82 Traveling with Your Family with Katie Mueller   Thank You to Our Sponsor: Leman Property Management Company   Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website   Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)   Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body, refocus your mind, and to re-imagine and re-narrate your life to a truer reality. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Job 33:4 NIV “The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” Acts 17:25 NIV “…He himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.” Acts 17:28 NIV “For in him we live and move and have our being.” Philippians 1:1-2 NIV “Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God's holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi…. 2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6 NIV “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body, refocus your mind, and to re-imagine and re-narrate your life to a truer reality. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Job 33:4 NIV “The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” Acts 17:25 NIV “…He himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.” Acts 17:28 NIV “For in him we live and move and have our being.” Philippians 1:1-2 NIV “Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God's holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi…. 2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6 NIV “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.

Faith is not the absence of fear, it's the presence of trust in the midst of fear. Faith in God doesn't eliminate fear, it overrides fear; this can be seen when God is speaking to Joshua as he is trying to lead the Israelite people. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NIV) For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In moments of darkness when you feel lost, desperate, and overwhelmed, Jesus stands by your side, offering light, hope, and healing. As you embrace the light and experience transformation in your life, you'll be empowered to extend that same healing and hope to others with Jesus by your side. “As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. Jesus did not let him, but said, ‘Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.' So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.” (Mark 5:18-20 NIV) For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In Part 2 of the Radical Discipleship series, Stasi teaches the power of worship and fasting. Worship is not just an act but a posture of the heart, a response to God's goodness and love as his Beloved. Fasting strengthens our dependence on and alignment with God, enabling us to access breakthrough and intimacy. Friends, this podcast offers deep encouragement by helping us understand how these practices transform our hearts and lives into deeper communion with God as we journey toward making Jesus our everything.…..SHOW NOTES:…..VERSES: Psalm 100:1–2 (NLT) — Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth! Worship the Lord with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy.Psalm 150:6 (NLT) — Let everything that breathes sing praises to the Lord! Praise the Lord!Hebrews 13:15 (NIV) — Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.John 4:23 (NIV) — Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.Exodus 20:3 (NIV) — You shall have no other gods before me.Exodus 23:25–26 (NIV) — 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.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.Deuteronomy 11:13–15 (NIV) — So if you faithfully obey the commands I am giving you today—to love the Lord your God and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul— 14 then I will send rain on your land in its season, both autumn and spring rains, so that you may gather in your grain, new wine and olive oil. 15 I will provide grass in the fields for your cattle, and you will eat and be satisfied.Acts 13:2–3 (NIV) — 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.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.Acts 16:25–26 (NIV) — About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone's chains came loose.Psalm 43:4 (NIV) — Then I will go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the lyre, O God, my God.Psalm 47:1 (NIV) — Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy.Psalm 95:1 (NIV) — Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.Colossians 3:16 (NIV) — Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.Jeremiah 32:39–40 (NIV) — I will give them singleness of heart and action, so that they will always fear me and that all will then go well for them and for their children after them. I will make an everlasting covenant with them: I will never stop doing good to them, and I will inspire them to fear me, so that they will never turn away from me.1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV) — So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.Luke 10:38–42 (NIV) — 38 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” 41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”Mark 14 (NIV) — (3) While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.John 4:23–24 (NIV) — Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”Philippians 3:3 (NIV) — For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh—Song of Song 8:5 (NLT) — Who is this sweeping in from the desert, leaning on her lover?Mark 3:17–21 (NKJV) — (here, verses 20–21) So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”…..RESOURCES:Part 1 – Radical Discipleship: Prayer and Scripture  https://wahe.art/3XD0hNwThe Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence  https://amzn.to/3AR2cFjThe Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible by Michael S. Heiser https://amzn.to/3Xuvv9q Shaping History Through Prayer and Fasting by Derek Prince https://amzn.to/3z8j2Pp John Mark Comer Teachings Podcast: Offering/Fasting E1 https://spoti.fi/4gelzYUAwaken Network Podcast: This Kind...  https://spoti.fi/3Zc9xcKBridgetown Church Podcast – Unforced rhythms of Grace: Fasting  https://wahe.art/3TgNEVM…..Don't Miss Out on the Next Episode – Subscribe for FreeSubscribe using your favorite podcast app:Spotify Podcasts – https://spoti.fi/42SsOipApple Podcasts – https://apple.co/42E0oZ1 Google Podcasts – http://wahe.art/3M81kxLAmazon Music & Audible – https://amzn.to/3M9u6hJ

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body, refocus your mind, and to re-imagine and re-narrate your life to a truer reality. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Psalm 46:10 (NIV)  “He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God.'” The verb in the ancient Hebrew (that this was originally written in) for “be still” can also be translated as, “let go; relax; let drop.” We can let go of our tension and self-guarding in our body when we remember to “know” what it means that God is God. Psalm 100:3 (NIV)  “Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his.” Psalm 100:5 NIV “For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to relax your body, refocus your mind, and to re-imagine and re-narrate your life to a truer reality. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Psalm 46:10 (NIV)  “He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God.'” The verb in the ancient Hebrew (that this was originally written in) for “be still” can also be translated as, “let go; relax; let drop.” We can let go of our tension and self-guarding in our body when we remember to “know” what it means that God is God. Psalm 100:3 (NIV)  “Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his.” Psalm 100:5 NIV “For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.

Want to impress God or want to truly amaze Jesus? Then, be humbled, surrender, and recognize the authority of God's word. “When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, ‘I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel.' Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well.” (Luke 7: 9-10 NIV) For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

The Centurion Soldier mentioned in Luke 7 wasn't a flawless religious figure, yet he profoundly understood true authority and leadership. He recognized the extraordinary power within Jesus because both leaders grasped the importance of valuing individuals regardless of their position in society. “So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: ‘Lord, don't trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed.'” (Luke 7:6-7 NIV) For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Ephesians 4:1 (NIV): As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.   Why we carry the name? Romans 5:7-8 (TPT) Now, would anyone dare to die for the sake of a wicked person? We can all understand if someone was willing to die for a truly noble person. But Christ proved God's passionate love for us by dying in our place while we were still lost and ungodly! How do we carry the name?   Romans 12:9–13 (NIV): Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.   Love has 2 sides 2 Timothy 4:3–5 (NIV): For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 5 But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry [calling]. 1 Peter 2:9 (TPT) But you are God's chosen treasure —priests who are kings, a spiritual “nation” set apart as God's devoted ones. He called you out of darkness to experience his marvelous light, and now he claims you as his very own. Romans 12:11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Romans 12:12 (NIV): Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Live people centric   Romans 12:13 (NIV): Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Ps 133:1-3 (NLT) How wonderful and pleasant it is when people live together in unity! For unity is as precious as the anointing oil that was poured over Aaron's head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. And there the Lord has commanded his blessing, even life everlasting.

Today's episode is the first of a three-part series on Radical Discipleship, in which Stasi shares practices of grace that root us in the love of God. In Part One, Stasi invites us to align with God through prayer and marinating our hearts in the Scriptures. She explores Wild at Heart's Daily Prayer as an example of a guided prayer to start each day. Aligning with God through prayer is both a sacred privilege and a necessary honor. The beauty of it lies in the fact that it's a two-way conversation—God deeply desires to hear from us, and He also longs for us to hear from Him. As we quiet ourselves in His presence, we are able to receive more of Him and take hold of everything He has accomplished for us. Friends, these daily practices aren't about obligation; they're about rooting ourselves deeply in the Truth so that we are able to follow hard, stand strong, and partner with Him in bringing His Kingdom.…..SHOW NOTES:…..VERSES: Proverbs 3:5 (NLT) — Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.Psalm 91 — In its entiretyPsalm 23:1 (NLT) — The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.James 1:5 (NIV) —  If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV) — No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.John 17:21 (NIV) — I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.1 Peter 5:7 (NIV) — Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.Song of Song 8:5 (NLT) — Who is this sweeping in from the desert, leaning on her lover?Romans 8:34 (NIV) — Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.1 John 2:1 (NLT) — My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who is truly righteous.Hebrews 7:25 (NLT) — Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.Psalm 19:7–11 (NIV) — The instructions of the Lord are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. (8) The commandments of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight for living. (9) Reverence for the Lord is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the Lord are true; each one is fair. (10) They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb. (11) They are a warning to your servant, a great reward for those who obey them.John 3:16 (NLT) — For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.1 John 1:9 (NLT) — But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.Psalm 62:5–6 (NLT) — Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken.Isaiah 40:31 (NIV) — But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.Romans 15:13 (NLT) — I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.Romans 15:4 (NIV) — For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV) — Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.2 Corinthians 4:16–18 (NIV) — Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. (17) For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. (18) So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.Ephesians 1:18–19 (NIV) —  pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. …Hebrews 11:1 (NLT) — Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.1 Peter 1:3–4 (NIV) — Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade.Revelation 21:4–5 (NLT) — He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” And the one sitting on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new!” Philipians 1:6 (NIV) — …that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.…..RESOURCES:Wild at Heart App: https://wildatheart.org/appWild at Heart Prayers: https://wildatheart.org/prayDaily Prayer: https://wahe.art/4e1NSIgSt Patrick's Breastplate: https://wahe.art/3Xo4DrvMoving Mountains: Praying with Passion, Confidence, and Authority by John Eldredge  https://amzn.to/4dDPesS…..Don't Miss Out on the Next Episode – Subscribe for FreeSubscribe using your favorite podcast app:Spotify Podcasts – https://spoti.fi/42SsOipApple Podcasts – https://apple.co/42E0oZ1 Google Podcasts – http://wahe.art/3M81kxLAmazon Music & Audible – https://amzn.to/3M9u6hJ

IN THIS FAMILY: SAVED People SERVE People. Ephesians 2:10 NIV For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. John 13:1, 3-17 It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand." "No," said Peter, "you shall never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me." Then, Lord," Simon Peter replied, "not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!" Jesus answered, "A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you." For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean. When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. Jesus is separating the difference between KNOWING something and DOING something. Mark 10:45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” How is your heart to serve? John 13:4 so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. Traits Of A Servants Heart 1. Has a WILLINGNESS to get INVOLVED. 2. He went LOW to LIFT UP. 3. Has a willingness to GET MESSY to make a DIFFERENCE. Philippians 2:6-9 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, God doesn't want something FROM YOU, but he wants something FOR YOU. John 13:17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. Saved people, serve people and SERVED people become SAVED people.

Closer, Pt. 4 | August 25, 2024Pastor Wes Morris John 1:1-14 (NIV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God...The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. ✓ Truth: God's standard.John 17:17 (TLB) Make them pure and holy through teaching them your words of truth.✓ Grace: God's favor.✓ Without truth, we become worldly.    Without grace, we become judgmental. ✓ Truth without grace is mean.   Grace without truth is meaningless. ✓ Grace invites us to be free so the truth can set us free. Ephesians 2:8 (NIV) For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God... THE BALANCE OF GRACE AND TRUTH John 8:9-11 (NIV) At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”“No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”I. WALK IN HUMILITY.John 8:6 (TLB) They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger.Philippians 2:3 (ESV) Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.II. SPEAK THE TRUTH IN LOVE.Ephesians 4:15 (TLB) We will lovingly follow the truth at all times—speaking truly, dealing truly, living truly—and so become more and more in every way like Christ who is the Head of his body, the Church.

The Plug of the Day: Powerful Promises “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”‭‭Romans‬ ‭15‬:‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬For daily prayers, download the PrayerPlug Mobile app --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/prayerplug/support

Are you raising confident kids? Today Karen encourages moms to take a step back so our kids can step up. She and Emily discuss the pitfalls of doing things for our kids and the reasons we often fall into that trap. They also talk about the difference between nurturing and enabling and share the critical connection between kids who take ownership and confident kids! Episode Recap:6:40 Why is there a whole chapter on confidence in this book? 8:32 Where are moms missing the mark when it comes to raising confident kids?12:56 What role do chores play in confidence? 14:04 Small, practical ways you can allow your children to grow in confidenceScripture for Reflection:Galatians 6:5 (NIV): "For each one should carry their own load."Questions for Discussion:Can you identify any specific behaviors or actions where you might be enabling your child rather than nurturing their independence? What changes could you make to shift from enabling to nurturing?Reflect on a recent situation where you stepped back and allowed your child to handle something on their own. How did it go, and what did you learn from the experience?How do you incorporate chores into your child's routine? How have you seen chores impact your child's sense of responsibility and confidence?What are some small, practical steps you can take to help your child grow in confidence? How can you implement these steps in your daily routine?Resources:- Pre-order Karen's all-new Survival Guide to Motherhood today! Orders ship July 30th: https://amzn.to/3Vr7LlD- Connect with Birds on a Wire Moms on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsonawiremoms  and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdsonawiremoms

Now, I think Ken Burns is a well intended man and an emotional liberal. Liberals are stuck on two emotions: caring and fairness. Everything is run through that lens. Ken Burns warned of a political orange man binary, while stating that binaries do not exist in nature. I believe he is well intended but I am struck to my heart at a recent speech he made. Burns cannot himself consume the words he says. What does God's Word say? John 9:39-41, NIV“For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.” Some Pharisees who were with him heard him say this and asked, “What? Are we blind too?” Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.Episode 1,627 Links:Ken Burns: “Be curious, not cool. Insecurity makes liars of us all.”Ken Burns warns about Trump during his commencement speech at Brandeis University.Megyn Kelly calls out Bill Maher's lie that cops died on January 6th4Patriots https://4Patriots.com/Todd 3-Month Survival Food kits are back in stock plus get 9 FREE gifts with your order  Alan's Soaps https://alanssoaps.com/TODD Use coupon code ‘TODD' to save an additional 10% off the bundle price.  Bioptimizers https://bioptimizers.com/todd Use promo code TODD for 10% off your order. Sharpen your edge and reach your potential with Mushroom Breakthrough by Bioptimizers.     Bonefrog   https://bonefrogcoffee.com/todd Use code TODD at checkout to receive 10% off your first purchase and 15% on subscriptions.  Bulwark Capital  Bulwark Capital Management (bulwarkcapitalmgmt.com) Join Zach for his LIVE “Inflation” Webinar this Thursday 3:30 pacific time.  Sign up today! EdenPURE https://edenpuredeals.com This week only!  Get Buy One Get One free pricing on the Thunderstorm Air Purifier with code TODDBOGO. GreenHaven Interactive Digital Marketing https://greenhaveninteractive.com Your Worldclass Website Will Get Found on Google!  Liver Health https://getliverhelp.com/todd Order today and get your FREE bottle of Blood Sugar Formula and free bonus gift. Native Path Krill https://nativepathkrill.com/todd For a limited time get Native Path Antarctic Krill Oil for as little as $23 per bottle.   Renue Healthcare https://renuewellcation.com Register today for your Wellcation with Todd Herman June 7-11, 2024.  See site for details