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Not everyone Can be Helped Pastor George Lehman None of us are hopeless – Unless we choose not to change. (we just keep going around the same mountain) “Making a wrong decision is understandable. Refusing to search continually for learning is not” - Phil Cosby We must be learning from our failures. This sermon is about dealing with the cause more than the symptoms. If you saw a huge hole in the road and you knew bikers where heading towards it and it could injure those approaching, would you ignore it or go out of your way to put up the danger warning sign? Some people will still drive into hole. In this world, you'll meet all kinds of people with many different problems, but not everyone can be helped, or wants to be helped. In 25 years of full ministry, my greatest desires to help everyone, to see people fulfilling their God given purpose and growing into God's awesome plan for their life. But - I have learned the hard way that I cannot help every person who attends our church or those who come to me for assistance. I know God can but hear me out!!! These are the kinds of people that are so entrenched in certain behaviours and habit patterns that one cannot help them to advance to the next level - unless they make the necessary faith shift in their attitude and behaviour. They just wont change! Those who do not take responsibility for themselves. The first step toward self-improvement is to remove all excuses for being uncommitted or not doing your best. “He that is good for making EXCUSES is seldom good for anything else” 1 Corinthians 9:27 (NIV) – No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others; I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.  (So many Christians live a disqualified life) Those that continually blame and point fingers at other people for their failures will never go to the next level. People can complain about their spouses, their children, their church, their jobs, their past, where they grew up etc., (If you want a reason not to serve God as you should, you will probably find one.) The devil has a thick manual on excuses. I have learned that within every challenge is this incredible seed of a God ordained opportunity for success, which requires faith to overcome problems. 2 Peter 1:3-4 (NIV) – 3His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. Those who do not have a heart to seek God. We all know Jeremiah 29:11 but verse 13 says: You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Isaiah 55:6 (NIV) – Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.  (If you feel God is not near – guess who moved!!! God is not playing hide and seek with us. We hide when we stop to seek.) The Bible teaches us that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”  - Proverbs 9:10. Those who do not respect God enough to seek Him in prayer and study His word, so they can make wise decisions in life - They are violating Scripture and cannot be helped either by me or any other leader or brother/sister. God said to Joshua: I'll be with you, but you have to do your part. Joshua 1:8-9 (NIV) – “8Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”  Those who do not obey what God requires for you to have success have decided to have a relationship with God on their own terms. Those who insist on having a negative outlook on life. There are some people who refuse to exercise faith in God or think positively, as the Word of God commands us to: (They would rather have their pity party, carry their grudges and hurts.) Philippians 4:8 (Msg) – Summing it all up friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious- the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies. This is because some have a natural inclination to expect the worst in life, so they are never disappointed by anyone or anything! (They set themselves up for failure) This is a weird way some folks attempt to shield their emotions from the pain of disappointment; it is a very common practice with many people. Jesus often told people that they would receive according to how they believed (for example Proverbs 23:7 teaches that “as a person thinks in their heart, so they will be.” (Stop being self-defeating!) One cannot empower a person who refuses to think God's thoughts about themselves and about life. Those who refuse to have a vision for their future. Proverbs 29:18 (KJV) – Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keeps the law, happy is he. There are so many very able, talented, anointed and gifted people, that I have met who live their lives without any strategic plan or vision, to fulfil the very thing God has blessed them with to make a difference in His Kingdom We were not just saved from something; we were saved to something. Those who are successful have a compelling vision that drives them daily and that feeds their souls even more than the desire to satisfy their own needs! Inside of every believer is a God-given kingdom vision for their future. If a person refuses to tap into that as their guiding light—and value that vision as their barometer for success—then my continual pep talks, sermons and motivation will not do the trick either! Those whose primary agenda is individualistic and not kingdom oriented. There are many Christians whose only agenda in life is to advance their own agenda. They don't want to work with a team or flow in the context of a local church. They want others to pour their life into them, but they are rarely ever willing to pour back into the church and serve in the Kingdom of God. I have learned that those who only want to use the church or God to advance their own agenda (even if it is ministry related) have greatly limited their own lives. Thus, I back away from these people until they change. This is because we are all called to seek first God's kingdom, in which we need to die to ourselves our own agenda's, comforts and conveniences, and sacrifice and invest our time for the good of the Body of Christ. Those who lack transparency, humility and integrity. The Bible teaches us to walk in the light as He is in the light (1 John 1:7). It also teaches us to confess our faults to one another and pray for one another that we may be healed (James 5:16). Those that do not admit their faults and confess their sins cannot have the kind of relationship with God that He intended for them to have, Also, you cannot have a relationship with a mentor or a fellow Christian who want to help you with your personal growth. It is important for any leader and any member to live a transparent life with integrity with one another Those who want to progress in their spiritual lives have to learn to practice the spiritual discipline of confession of sin Proverbs 28:13(LB) – A man who refuses to admit his mistakes can never be successful. But if he confesses and forsakes them, he gets another chance. I do not believe there is anyone who willingly does not want to change and become better in their walk with God. What did you hear in this message that needs to change in your life? Lamentation 3:40 (Amp) – Let us test and examine our ways and let us return to the Lord.

TDA  The David Alliance TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com Garth Heckman        Romans 5 1 Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God (so things should be good now… we got peace - Right?) because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. 2 Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory. 3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.     In 1983, Australia hosted its ultramarathon, a 573.7 mile foot race from Sydney to Melbourne. This is a race that takes days to run, and professionals from all over the world came to participate. Shortly before the race began, a 61-year-old farmer named Cliff Young, wearing overalls and goulashes over his boots, walked up to the registration table and requested a number to enter the race. The people at the registration table thought it was a joke—that somebody was setting them up—so they laughed. But Cliff Young said, "No, I'd really like to run." So they gave him a number and pinned it on his old overalls. Cliff Young walked over to the start of the race. All the other professional runners, who were decked out in all their running regalia, looked at him like he was crazy. The crowd snickered. They laughed even more when the gun went off and the race began, because all those professional runners had sculpted bodies and beautiful strides, but not Cliff Young. He didn't even run like a runner. Cliff Young ran with an awkward, goofy-looking shuffle. All through the crowd people were laughing, and finally, someone called out, "Get that old fool off the track!" Five days, 14 hours, and four minutes later, at 1:25 in the morning, Cliff Young shuffled across the finish line of the 573.7 mile ultramarathon. He had won the race. And he didn't win by a matter of minutes or even an hour or two. The second place runner was nine hours and 56 minutes behind him. Cliff Young had set a new world record for the ultramarathon. The press mobbed him wondering what kind of special running shoes he must have had, and they rummaged through his backpack wondering what he'd survived on—he'd lived primarily on pumpkin seeds and water—and then they discovered the secret to his success: - HE NEVER STOPPED RUNNING! Cliff Young had shuffled his way to victory without ever sleeping. The other runners would run for 18 hours straight, and then stop and sleep for three or four hours. He endured running five days, 14 hours, and four minutes at the age of 61.   Perseverance "And the perpetual impulse forward always falls back again     to gather new strength.  The fall is brutal, but we set out again." Albert Camus 1954   Query successful Try again without extensions  Here are some verses about perseverance in the Bible: Matthew 10:22 (NIV): "You will be hated by everyone because of my name, but the one who perseveres to the end will be saved.” They will ask: WHY WOULD YOU PERSEVERE FOR CHRIST? - THEY WILL BE MAD, ASHAMED, CONVICTED   2 Corinthians 12:10 (NIV): "Therefore, I am content with weaknesses, with insults, with hardships, with persecutions, and with difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” PAUL STATES THESE HARDSHIPS BRING WEAKNESS AND THEN GOD TAKES OVER… LIFEGUARD WAITING TILL THE GUY GOES UNDER A 3RD TIME - JUST WAITING FOR THE FIGHT TO GET OUT OF HIM.   Hebrews 12:11 (NIV): "No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it's always painful. But afterward, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace.” HARVEST - Perseverance while going through it seems like a lot of manure… the harvest is worth it.   James 1:2-4 (NIV): "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of various kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." TRIALS OF VARIOUS KINDS - GK GREATLY DIVERSE GROWING IN INTENSITY. I.E. HOW MUCH GREATER IS YOUR MARRIAGE GOING THROUGH THE TRIALS IN TODAYS WORLD THEN IN 1920? 

 Advent // The Love of God  John 3:16 (NIV)“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.” For God so loved you, He gave His one and only Son.   1.     To remove your wrong views about Him.  Exodus 34:5-7 (NIV)“Then the Lord came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed His name, the Lord. And He passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.” John 18:37 (NIV)“The reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth.” John 1:18 (NIV)“No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is Himself God and…. has made Him known.” John 14:9 (NIV)“Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.” Hebrews 1:3 (NIV)“The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word.”  2.     To show you what His love is really like.  1 John 4:9-10 (NIV)“This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love…. that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”  Ephesians 3:18 (NIV)(I want you) “...to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ.” Exodus 34:5-7 (NIV)“The Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.” 

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

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

 Parables // Prayer // The Key to Living an Overcoming Life  Luke 18:1-8 (NLT)“One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up. ‘There was a judge in a certain city,' he said, ‘who neither feared God nor cared about people.' A widow of that city came to him repeatedly, saying, ‘Give me justice in this dispute with my enemy.' The judge ignored her for a while, but finally he said to himself, ‘I don't fear God or care about people, but this woman is driving me crazy. I'm going to see that she gets justice, because she is wearing me out with her constant requests!'Then the Lord said, ‘Learn a lesson from this unjust judge. Even he rendered a just decision in the end. So don't you think God will surely give justice to his chosen people who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will grant justice to them quickly! But when the Son of Man returns, how many will he find on the earth who have faith?'” Prayer: The Key to Living an Overcoming Life 1.     God uses prayer to guide you in confusing times. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)“Trust in the Lord with all your heart    and lean not on your own understanding;in all your ways submit to him,    and he will make your paths straight.” 2.     Prayer helps you overcome the temptations that come in the midst of difficulties. 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.”  3.     Prayer will steady you in trouble. Joshua 1:9 (NIV)“Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”Matthew 28:20 (ESV)“I am with you always, to the end of the age.” 2 Thessalonians 3:3 (ESV)“But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.” Philippians 4:13 (NKJV) “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” 4.     Prayer keeps you focused on God's character.  Hebrews 6:10 (NLT)“For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do.” Philippians 4:19 (NIV)“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NIV)“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:10 (NIV)“Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.”     Matthew 6:31-33 (NIV)“do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” 

Is loving the world a bad thing? Aren't we supposed to love people and God's creation? John tells us that loving the world is the same as not knowing God, therefore, how do we know God and also approach this world we live in?  1 John 2:15-17 (NIV)No matter what a person may say or think… the person who loves the world does not know God. The TestDo you love the world? The Truths The world is dying… The world in powerless… The world is sinful… The TrapsLust of the fleshLust of the eyesPride of lifeWhatever we Love, + what we Follow = becomes our god. The TrustYou can prove you know God by answering: Am I loving the world? Need Prayer?

On Sunday, June 23, 2024, VLC gathered in person and also broadcasted online via YouTube. Brook Fonceca shared a message about when Jesus replied to the people listening to his messages by sharing a metaphor with them. Their unwillingness to receive his message and miracles was like someone having unhealthy eyes. The inability to see what God is doing through Jesus is a darkness to their soul. From this, we see that we can change our perception of the world by having an open heart, responsive to God's leading. An openhearted perception leads to an openhanded perspective where we can interact with the world with God's heart, loving freely and fully, and reflecting the light of Christ. Developing and maintaining an openhearted perception and an openhanded perspective comes down to simple practices of devotion, like “Taking in the Good” and “The Miracle Morning,” among other things like nature walks, reading, meditation, and journaling. Luke 11:33-36 (NIV)“No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light. Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are healthy, your whole body also is full of light. But when they are unhealthy, your body also is full of darkness. See to it, then, that the light within you is not darkness. Therefore, if your whole body is full of light, and no part of it dark, it will be just as full of light as when a lamp shines its light on you.”https://bit.ly/Luke11_33-36NIV

By Rev Charlie Lacey |  1 John 5: 1-15  1 John 5: 1-15 (NIV) No matter what we experience in life, we can have total confidence in the Good News of Jesus. He died for our sins and rose to new and everlasting life. The wonderful news of the Gospel is that we share in His victory over death. Jesus is God's testimony in person, and we can trust him completely. To find out more information about Lee Strobel please visit the website https://leestrobel.com/https://leestrobel.com/

Do you know God promises to never leave you? Angie looks at God's calling on Joshua's life, the declaration He makes to never forget or abandon him, and how that promise is ours as well. Joshua 1:5 (NIV)“No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.”  https://livesteadyon.com/Email Angie at: steadyonpodcast@gmail.comFacebook @livesteadyonInstagram @angiebaughman421 Grab freebies and subscribe to the weekly Steady On newsletter at: https://livesteadyon.com/live-steady-on-newsletter/ You can download a blank study sheet here: https://livesteadyon.com/sbs-blank-study-sheet/ Interested in the Step By Step Bible study method? Download the FREE masterclass here: https://livesteadyon.com/live-steady-on-stepbystepmasterclass/  Logos Softwarehttps://www.logos.com/ Enduring Word Commentaryhttps://enduringword.com/ WordHippohttps://www.wordhippo.com/ BibleGatewayhttps://www.biblegateway.com/ Blue Letter Biblehttps://www.blueletterbible.org/ Donald K. Campbell, “Joshua,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 325, 328.Harris, R. Laird, Gleason L. Archer Jr., and Bruce K. Waltke, eds. Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament. Chicago: Moody Press, 1999. Jakes, T.D., Distinctively Similar, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D04QFjqJ8r8&t=571s Spurgeon, Charles Haddon The New Park Street Pulpit, Volumes 1-6 and The Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit, Volumes 7-63 (Pasadena, Texas: Pilgrim Publications, 1990) Bruce K. Waltke, “Joshua,” in New Bible Commentary: 21st Century Edition, ed. D. A. Carson et al., 4th ed. (Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994), 237.  Theme music:Glimmer by Andy Ellison 

On Sunday, April 14, 2024, VLC gathered in person and also broadcast online via YouTube. Pastor Baldemar Serrato shared a message about storing up treasures in heaven. He shared three simple points. • Generosity Encouraged: Sowing Cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:6-7) Giving special offerings with a joyful heart. • How to Build Treasures in Heaven: Sowing for the Spirit (Galatians 6:7-10) Giving our lives as an offering to the Lord, following the Holy Spirit's guidance • Sowing in the Missionary Field (Philippians 4:10-20) Partnering with missionaries by giving generously so that they can serve others in need in places we can't easily reach. We have the opportunity to love God by loving one another through giving to meet others' needs. This kind of service is honored by the Lord and remembered for us in heaven as a credit for the Lord's blessings. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV)No acumulen para sí tesoros en la tierra, donde la polilla y el óxido destruyen, y donde los ladrones se meten a robar. Más bien, acumulen para sí tesoros en el cielo, donde ni la polilla ni el óxido carcomen, ni los ladrones se meten a robar. Porque donde esté tu tesoro, allí estará también tu corazón.Mateo 6:19-21 (NVI)https://bit.ly/Matthew6_19-21NIVhttps://bit.ly/Mateo6_19-21NVI

By Rev Charlie Lacey |  Acts 12: 1-24  Acts 12: 1-24 (NIV) No evil person – no evil plan – no evil situation, can ever derail God's plans. The good news remains good news, no matter what's happening in the world or in our lives. 

In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said,“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:‘Prepare the way of the Lord;make his paths straight.'”Now John wore a garment of camel's hair and a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. Then Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region about the Jordan were going out to him, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins.Mathew 3:1-6 (ESV)They answered him, “He wore a garment of hair, with a belt of leather about his waist.” And he said, “It is Elijah the Tishbite.”2 Kings 1:8Life on the fringes“in the wilderness”A new story, a new song‘baptised by him' //  ‘confessing sins'A prophetic life‘the kingdom is at hand”What made JTB stand out?The Nazirite Vow – set apart for GodSpeak to the people of Israel and say to them, When either a man or a woman makes a special vow, the vow of a Nazirite, to separate himself to the Lord, he shall separate himself from wine and strong drink. He shall drink no vinegar made from wine or strong drink and shall not drink any juice of grapes or eat grapes, fresh or dried…. All the days of his vow of separation, no razor shall touch his head. Until the time is completed for which he separates himself to the Lord, he shall be holy. He shall let the locks of hair of his head grow long….All the days that he separates himself to the Lord he shall not go near a dead body.Numbers 6:2-3, 5-6 (NIV)No grapes or grape products: a vow of sobrietyNo cutting of the hair: a vow of primitivismNo dead bodies: a vow of purityExamples: Samuel, Samson (a bad example), even Paul took the vow for a timeTo live a prophetic life of difference:1/ Jesus, be my comfort2/ Jesus, I give you my image3/ Jesus, set me apart

RUN FOR YOUR LIFE (TEMPTATION Week 3) Sunday, October 8th 2023 John 8:31-32 (NIV) To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 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. Matthew 26:41 (NIV) “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 1 Corinthians 10:12-13 (NIV) So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! 13 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. HOW DO WE RUN FROM TEMPTATION TO FIND FREEDOM? MOVE THE LINE Psalm 16:6-9 (NIV) Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure. 6 The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. 7 I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. 8 I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. MAGNIFY THE COST PLAN YOUR ESCAPE James 4:7-8 (NKJV) Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 1:12 (ESV) God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

“Our suffering is light and temporary and is producing for us an eternal glory that is greater than anything we can imagine.” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭17‬ ‭GW‬‬. “His anger lasts only a moment. His favor lasts a lifetime. Weeping may last for the night, but there is a song of joy in the morning.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭30‬:‭5‬ ‭GW‬‬ “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭8‬ ‭GW‬‬ “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬ “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬ No matter what you are going through, you have to remain steadfast, trusting and believing God's Word is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. Reflections: Trust His strategy not your own. stand still and know God still cares for you.

Sermon Notes Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭37‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven." Judge = krinó. It means to pronounce someone as good or evil (like in a court of law). Remember: "Context is king" Loving my enemies means: 1) Lending to them without expecting repayment (Luke 6:27) 2) Blessing them instead of cursing them (Luke 6:28) 3) Returning their curses with prayers (Luke 6:28) 4) Doing to them as you want them to do to you (Luke 6:31) 5) Being merciful to them, as God is merciful to you (Luke 6:36) 6) Not judging them (Luke 6:37) 7) Not condemning them (Luke 6:37) 8) Forgiving them (Luke 6:37) This kind of "love" is what sets the follower of Christ apart from those who do not follow Christ. Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭36‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful." Jesus' assumption is that I already do these things for my loved ones. He is encouraging us to go ahead and do it for everyone. Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭38‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭39‬-‭40‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ He also told them this parable: "Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit? The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher." The goal is to be more like Jesus Christ. Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭41‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?" Both planks and specs are from the same thing. Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭42‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,' when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." The alternative to judgment is assistance in love. Before you assist: first deal with your own stuff. "…first take the plank out of your eye". Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭43‬-‭44 ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers." ‭‭Before you assist: Earn the right to be close. "…then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye". Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭45 ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬ "A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. Ask yourself: Is there any plank I need to deal with that I am ignoring? Is there anyone I need to show mercy to rather than condemnation and judgment? Is there anyone I need to seek forgiveness from for judging them in the past? Is there anyone with a "spec in their eye", that I am close to, that God is calling me to help them "clean out their eye"?

Sermon Notes Luke 6:46 NIV Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say? Luke 6:49 NIV But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete. When was the last time you heard from God and did what He said? Luke 5:33 NIV (The Pharisees and their sect) said to him, "John's disciples often fast and pray, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours go on eating and drinking." Luke 5:34 NIV Jesus answered, "Can you make the friends of the bridegroom fast while he is with them?" Luke 5:35 NIV "But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; in those days they will fast." Fasting is where we deprive ourselves of something we need in order to chase something we need even more. Prayer is the ongoing conversation with God our Father where we both talk and listen for The Holy Spirit's leading in our lives. Luke 5:36 NIV He told them this parable: "No one tears a piece out of a new garment to patch an old one. Otherwise, they will have torn the new garment, and the patch from the new will not match the old." Luke 5:37 NIV "And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the new wine will burst the skins; the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined." Luke 5:38-39 NIV "No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins. And no one after drinking old wine wants the new, for they say, 'The old is better.'" Jesus is letting them know the final and official interpretation of God's law is here, and His name is Jesus. Luke 6:1 NIV One Sabbath, Jesus was going through the grainfields, and his disciples began to pick some heads of grain, rub them in their hands and eat the kernels. Luke 6:2 NIV Some of the Pharisees asked, "Why are you doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?" Luke 6:3-4 NIV Jesus answered them, "Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? He entered the house of God, and taking the consecrated bread, he ate what is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions." Luke 6:5 NIV Then Jesus said to them, "The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath." Luke 6:6 NIV On another Sabbath, he went into the synagogue and was teaching, and a man was there whose right hand was shriveled. Luke 6:7 NIV The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal on the Sabbath. Luke 6:8 NIV But Jesus knew what they were thinking and said to the man with the shriveled hand, "Get up and stand in front of everyone." So he got up and stood there. Luke 6:9 NIV Then Jesus said to them, "I ask you, which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?" Luke 6:10 NIV He looked around at them all, and then said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." He did so, and his hand was completely restored. The original purpose of the Sabbath was to heal and restore the human body and mind. Luke 6:11 NIV But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law were furious and began to discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus. "There must be a quiet place where all is in order, a place from which comes the energy that overcomes turbulence and is not intimidated by it." – Gordon MacDonald, Ordering Your Private World Which of your circles is overdeveloped, and which are underdeveloped? What is getting squeezed because of that? What is God calling you to do about it?

Merry Christmas my friend!I didn't record a new episode for Christmas. In fact, I hope you don't even hear this today. But just in case you're driving or working out and need something to listen to, here's one of my favorite episodes ever, because the best Christmas present I could give you would be to teach you how to find hope no matter what you're going through. So here's Hope Surgery, with a little Christmas music thrown in. It's time for some hope surgery!Life can be very difficult, and sometimes it seems like we're all alone and without hope in a dark world. But here's a few minutes about the self-brain surgery technique that will help you find hope and see the light again!Scriptures mentioned in this episodeHabakkuk 1:2 “How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen?”Isaiah 30:18 (NIV)18 Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you;therefore he will rise up to show you compassion.For the Lord is a God of justice.Blessed are all who wait for him!Habakkuk 2:3 “Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.”2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.Isaiah 1:19 IF you are willing and obedient, (THEN) you will eat the best from the landDeuteronomy 28:1 IF you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, (THEN) the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth.Daniel 10 (NIV)2 At that time I, Daniel, mourned for three weeks. 3 I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips; and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over.4 On the twenty-fourth day of the first month, as I was standing on the bank of the great river, the Tigris, 5 I looked up and there before me was a man dressed in linen, with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist. 6 His body was like topaz, his face like lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of burnished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude.7 I, Daniel, was the only one who saw the vision; those who were with me did not see it, but such terror overwhelmed them that they fled and hid themselves. 8 So I was left alone, gazing at this great vision; I had no strength left, my face turned deathly pale and I was helpless. 9 Then I heard him speaking, and as I listened to him, I fell into a deep sleep, my face to the ground.10 A hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees. 11 He said, “Daniel, you who are highly esteemed, consider carefully the words I am about to speak to you, and stand up, for I have now been sent to you.” And when he said this to me, I stood up trembling.12 Then he continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. 13 But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. 14 Now I have come to explain to you what will happen to your people in the future, for the vision concerns a time yet to come.”Romans 4:18 Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed.Hosea 12:6Therefore, return to your God, Observe kindness and justice,And wait for your God continually.Psalm 27:14Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage;Yes, wait for the LordPsalm 33:20, 21 NIV “We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.”Psalm 33:3, 4 NLT “Sing a new song of praise to him; play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy. For the word of the Lord holds true, and we can trust everything he does.”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.”Psalm 27:14 ESV “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!”Psalm 46:1-3 CSB “God is our refuge and strength, a helper who is always found in times of trouble. Therefore we will not be afraid, though the earth trembles and the mountains topple into the depths of the seas, though its water roars and foams and the mountains quake with its turmoil. Selah”Psalm 121:1,2 NIV “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” (Listener did this- look for help!)Romans 8:37 NIV “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” We will conquer the gap with self-brain surgery of doing, seeking, praying, trusting, pressing in, looking for help. Hope-tox doesn't inject itself.John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”Ephesians 3:“14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”John to Know, James to Grow bible studyBooks mentioned in this episode Almost Everything: Notes on Hope by Anne LamottI've Seen the End of You by Dr. Lee WarrenTommy Walker's song, Wait on the Lord!(Music shared on The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast is authorized under BMI license #61063253 and ASCAP license #400010513 )Self-Brain Surgery with Dr. Lee Warren is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit drleewarren.substack.com/subscribe

The Story of Christmas in Four Phrases 1.      God with us.Matthew 1:23 (NIV)“the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”[which means “God with us”]. Isaiah 7:14 (NIV)“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”2.      God for us. Luke 19:10 (ESV)“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Titus 2:14 (NIV)“[Jesus] gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.” John 3:16-17 (ESV)“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” John 10:18 (NIV)“No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again…”  3.      God in us.2 Corinthians 1:22 (NIV)“[God] set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.” Colossians 1:27 (NIV)“God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” 1 Corinthians 6:19 (NIV)“…your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?” 4.     Us with God.Revelation 21:1-4 (ESV)“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God... And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying,  Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”Revelation 22:20 (ESV)“Surely I am coming soon.”

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, ________ Ephesians 3:30 ESV Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us. Ephesians 3:30 ESV   “Don't be afraid!” David said. “I intend to show kindness to you because of my promise to your father, Jonathan. I will give you all the property that once belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will eat here with me at the king's table!”2 Samuel 9:7 NLT   Mephibosheth bowed respectfully and exclaimed, “Who is your servant, that you should show such kindness to a dead dog like me?” 2 Samuel 9:8 NLT   But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God's Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God's children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Romans 8:13-17 NLT   Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, “Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 1:4-5 NLT   The gift of choice is God's greatest gift to us because this separates Christianity from being a religion to a relationship.   So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him.” Luke 11:13 NLT   You will not fully understand God's goodness and live a dynamic life here on earth without a relationship with Holy Spirit. Comfort “If you love me, obey my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn't looking for him and doesn't recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.  John 14:15-17 NLT   But one who prophesies strengthens others, encourages them, and comforts them. 1 Corinthians 14:3 NLT   Conviction And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God's righteousness, and of the coming judgment. The world's sin is that it refuses to believe in me. Righteousness is available because I go to the Father, and you will see me no more. John 16:8-10 NLT       Counsel When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future.  John 16:13 NLT   If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you.  James 1:5 NLT   Yet you do not have because you do not ask. James 4:2 NKJV Fellowship May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. 2 Corinthians 13:14 NLT   Gifts   And God confirmed the message by giving signs and wonders and various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit whenever he chose. Hebrews 2:4 NLT   Fruit   For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. Ephesians 5:9 NLT   "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one Another." John 13:34-35 NIV   No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us. 1 John 4:12 NLT   Revealed Mysteries That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God's deep secrets. No one can know a person's thoughts except that person's own spirit, and no one can know God's thoughts except God's own Spirit. And we have received God's Spirit (not the world's spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us. 1 Corinthians 2:9-12 NLT   Prayer Help And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don't know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. Romans 8:26 NLT     Power   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 15:13 NLT Liberty   For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 NLT   Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away—all who have been called by the Lord our God.” Acts 2:38-39 NLT   Repent Be water Baptized Receive the Holy Spirit          

Text: Various Theme: What would your everyday budget look like if you let God help organize your plan? This week we'll look at some key principles to help us do exactly that! Key Verse: Matthew 6:24 (NIV) “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” Message Notes: https://my.bible.com/en-GB/events/48982813

John 8:2 NIV At dawn he appeared again in the temple courts, where all the people gathered around him, and he sat down to TEACH them. John 8:3 NIV The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman CAUGHT in adultery. They MADE HER stand before the group John 8:4 NIV and they said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. John 8:5 NIV In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” Leviticus 20:10 NIV “‘If a man commits adultery with another man's wife—with the wife of his neighbor—both the adulterer and the adulteress are to be put to death. John 8:6 NIV They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. John 8:7 NIV When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” John 8:8 NIV again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. John 8:9 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. John 8:10 NIV Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” John 8:11 NIV “No one, sir,” Jesus went on to say “then neither do I condemn you go now and leave your life of sin.” Titus 2:11&12 ESV For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age. John 8:12 NIV When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

"People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." -1 Samuel 16:7c (NIV) No matter what the setting, we as humans seem to try and stretch and twist God's way to suit our desires. The Pharisees in Jesus' time and Legalism today made and make it about behaviors. They say that if you simply don't do certain things then you're right with God. Never mind what your inner spiritual and thought life look like. Other's say that the Way of Jesus is outdated and not applicable for today. Never mind what the interpersonal consequences might be. Jesus was clear, however. He said to love the LORD with all of your heart and mind. The behaviors will flow naturally from that place of devotion.

Text: Matthew 6:24; various Theme: After looking at why we get into debt, this week we'll look for God's wisdom on how to get…and stay…out of debt. Key Verse: Matthew 6:24 (NIV) “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.” Message Notes: https://my.bible.com/en-GB/events/48953635

--- Sermon delivered at Pilgrim Baptist Church on Sunday, June 19, 2022 at 6-15 pm. -----This sermon looks in the various problems with the NIV bible.--Most notably this sermon will address the removal of the word- doctrine.--We will also note the verses that have weakened and many times removed the doctrine of the deity of Christ.--The NIV is not a bible version, but a bible perversion.--A must listen to sermon regarding Bible issues.---- -- -- -- ----Jimmy Fortunato is the Pastor of Pilgrim Baptist Church located at 229 W. Jere Whitson Rd. Cookeville, TN 38501.--Pilgrim Baptist Church is a bible-believing, independent Baptist church that takes a strong stance on the authority of the King James Bible and the absolute necessity of public evangelism for true New Testament churches.--For more information about Pilgrim Baptist Church visit--- https---pilgrimbaptist.church---Stay Connected with Pilgrim Baptist Church on Social Media---- Facebook- https---www.facebook.com-PilgrimBaptistCookeville--- Instagram- https---www.instagram.com-pilgrimbaptistcookeville---- Twitter- https---twitter.com-pbc-cookeville--- Sermon Audio- https---www.sermonaudio.com-solo-pilgrimbaptist--Donate To Pilgrim Baptist Church---- https---pilgrimbaptist.church-giving--- https---www.paypal.com-paypalme-pilgrimbaptist

MYR2B MINISTRIES THE POWER OF GOD'S WHISPER TITLE: TIME TO ROAR EPISODE: 22-174 VERSE: The letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. 2 CORINTHIANS 3:6, NIV ✔️ - No one has to tell a lion to roar. ✔️ - Because He tells us to, but because it's our nature. ✔️ - The letter can't accomplish that, but the Spirit can. ✔️ - His Spirit gives us the life we need in order to really live. TAKEAWAY: But if we can repeatedly and single-mindedly focus on God - if we can develop a Godward gaze and depend on His life within us - our inner nature will be powerfully transformed. And we will experience the Spirit who gives life. PRAYER: Holy Spirit, plant Your words in me like seeds that spring to life. Let my inner nature flourish. Let Your deepest thoughts become my deepest thoughts. Live strong within me, and let me rest in Your efforts. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/myr2b/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/myr2b/support

If, Wait, Then: The Surgery of Hope Life can be very difficult, and sometimes it seems like we're all alone and without hope in a dark world. But here's a few minutes about the self-brain surgery technique that will help you find hope and see the light again! Scriptures mentioned in this episode Habakkuk 1:2 “How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen?” Isaiah 30:18 (NIV) 18 Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! Habakkuk 2:3 “Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV 14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Isaiah 1:19 IF you are willing and obedient, (THEN) you will eat the best from the land Deuteronomy 28:1 IF you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, (THEN) the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. Daniel 10 (NIV) 2 At that time I, Daniel, mourned for three weeks. 3 I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips; and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over. 4 On the twenty-fourth day of the first month, as I was standing on the bank of the great river, the Tigris, 5 I looked up and there before me was a man dressed in linen, with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist. 6 His body was like topaz, his face like lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of burnished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude. 7 I, Daniel, was the only one who saw the vision; those who were with me did not see it, but such terror overwhelmed them that they fled and hid themselves. 8 So I was left alone, gazing at this great vision; I had no strength left, my face turned deathly pale and I was helpless. 9 Then I heard him speaking, and as I listened to him, I fell into a deep sleep, my face to the ground. 10 A hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees. 11 He said, “Daniel, you who are highly esteemed, consider carefully the words I am about to speak to you, and stand up, for I have now been sent to you.” And when he said this to me, I stood up trembling. 12 Then he continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. 13 But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. 14 Now I have come to explain to you what will happen to your people in the future, for the vision concerns a time yet to come.” Romans 4:18 Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed. Hosea 12:6 Therefore, return to your God, Observe kindness and justice, And wait for your God continually. Psalm 27:14 Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord Psalm 33:20, 21 NIV “We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.” Psalm 33:3, 4 NLT “Sing a new song of praise to him; play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy. For the word of the Lord holds true, and we can trust everything he does.” 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.” Psalm 27:14 ESV “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” Psalm 46:1-3 CSB “God is our refuge and strength, a helper who is always found in times of trouble. Therefore we will not be afraid, though the earth trembles and the mountains topple into the depths of the seas, though its water roars and foams and the mountains quake with its turmoil. Selah” Psalm 121:1,2 NIV “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” (Listener did this- look for help!) Romans 8:37 NIV “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” We will conquer the gap with self-brain surgery of doing, seeking, praying, trusting, pressing in, looking for help. Hope-tox doesn't inject itself. John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Ephesians 3: “14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” Books mentioned in this episode  Almost Everything: Notes on Hope by Anne Lamott I've Seen the End of You by Dr. Lee Warren Check out the prayer wall! Subscribe to my weekly letter!  Consider supporting the podcast! Patrons get bonus episodes, transcripts, free books, and more! Tommy Walker's song, Wait on the Lord! Tommy Walker's song, All About Your Glory

Dictionary definition of FAMILY - A group consisting of parents and children living together in a household. A group of people related to one another by blood or marriage. “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” - Matthew 7:24 - 27 (NIV) 1.) Jesus promises serious difficulties in all of our lives. 2.) Jesus promises total security and success to the who obey His Word! 3.) Jesus promises failure to every person and family that neglects His Word. Why would people build on the sand? a.) Because it's quicker and easier b.) Because it's more popular c.) Because it conforms to you (comfortable) “But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” - Joshua 24:15 (NIV) “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?' or ‘What shall we drink?' or ‘What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.” - Matthew 6:24 - 32 (NIV)

Sermon Notes John 11:1-3 NIV "Now, a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary, and her sister Martha. (This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one 5who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair.) So the sisters sent word to Jesus, 'Lord, the one you love is sick.'" John 11:41-42 NIV "So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, 'Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me.'" John 11:43-44a NIV "When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, 'Lazarus, come out!' The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen and a cloth around his face." John 11:44b NIV "Jesus said to them, 'Take off the grave clothes and let him go.'" It takes a community to strip us of our grave clothes. Philippians 2:1-3 NIV "Therefore, if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves." Romans 12:9-10 NIV "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves." Romans 14:13 NIV "Therefore, let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister." "When other people judge, criticize, and condemn us, we can plunge into cesspools of false guilt. Swiss psychologist Paul Tournier said false guilt “comes as a result of judgments and suggestions of men.” A twenty-one-year-old college student described his struggle with false guilt this way: “My dad acts like judge, jury, and executioner when I do something wrong. He makes me feel utterly worthless.” False guilt causes us to sink in defeat rather than rise up and move out of the tomb." – Steven W. Smith, The Lazarus Life Romans 8:1-2 NIV "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death." Learn to recognize the voice of your enemy vs. the voice of your Heavenly Father. Romans 8:5 NIV "Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires." Romans 8:6 NIV "The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace." Romans 8:7-8 NIV "The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God." Romans 8:9-11 NIV "You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you." Romans 8:28-30 NIV "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 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. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified." Romans 8:31-32 NIV "What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?" Romans 8:33-34 NIV "Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 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." Romans 8:35-36 NIV "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: 'For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.'" Romans 8:37 NIV "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." Romans 8:38-39 NIV "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." The end game of God’s love for us is more worship. John 11:2 NIV "(This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair.)" John 12:1-3 NIV "Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume."

Sermon Notes - May 1, 2022Acts: The Church - Introduction - Jon Furman Acts 2:2 (NLT)Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability. Acts 2:5-6 (NLT)At that time there were devout Jews from every nation living in Jerusalem. When they heard the loud noise, everyone came running, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers. Acts 2:37-39 (NLT)Peter's words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away—all who have been called by the Lord our God.” “This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away—all who have been called by the Lord our God.” Acts 2:42 (NLT)All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Supper), and to prayer. Acts 8:1&4 (NLT)A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusalem; and all the believers except the apostles were scattered through the regions of Judea and Samaria… But the believers who were scattered preached the Good News about Jesus wherever they went. Acts 8:29-31 (NLT)The Holy Spirit said to Philip, “Go over and walk along beside the carriage.” Philip ran over and heard the man reading from the prophet Isaiah. Philip asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” The man replied, “How can I, unless someone instructs me?” And he urged Philip to come up into the carriage and sit with him. Acts 8:35-37 (NLT)So beginning with this same Scripture, Philip told him the Good News about Jesus. As they rode along, they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “Look! There's some water! Why can't I be baptized?” Deuteronomy 23:1 (NIV)“No one who has been emasculated by crushing or cutting may enter into the assembly of the Lord.” Acts 8:38-40 (NLT)He ordered the carriage to stop, and they went down into the water, and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away. The eunuch never saw him again but went on his way rejoicing. Meanwhile, Philip found himself farther north at the town of Azotus. He preached the Good News there and in every town along the way until he came to Caesarea. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT)This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! Action I: Baptism Action II: Service

If, Wait, Then: The Surgery of Hope (Originally played in March of 2021, I'm bringing this to you today since it's perfect for Action April, and because I can't stop sneezing!) Life can be very difficult, and sometimes it seems like we're all alone and without hope in a dark world. But here's a few minutes about the self-brain surgery technique that will help you find hope and see the light again! Scriptures mentioned in this episode Habakkuk 1:2 “How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen?” Isaiah 30:18 (NIV) 18 Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! Habakkuk 2:3 “Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV 14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Isaiah 1:19 IF you are willing and obedient, (THEN) you will eat the best from the land Deuteronomy 28:1 IF you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, (THEN) the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. Daniel 10 (NIV) 2 At that time I, Daniel, mourned for three weeks. 3 I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips; and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over. 4 On the twenty-fourth day of the first month, as I was standing on the bank of the great river, the Tigris, 5 I looked up and there before me was a man dressed in linen, with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist. 6 His body was like topaz, his face like lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of burnished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude. 7 I, Daniel, was the only one who saw the vision; those who were with me did not see it, but such terror overwhelmed them that they fled and hid themselves. 8 So I was left alone, gazing at this great vision; I had no strength left, my face turned deathly pale and I was helpless. 9 Then I heard him speaking, and as I listened to him, I fell into a deep sleep, my face to the ground. 10 A hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees. 11 He said, “Daniel, you who are highly esteemed, consider carefully the words I am about to speak to you, and stand up, for I have now been sent to you.” And when he said this to me, I stood up trembling. 12 Then he continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. 13 But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. 14 Now I have come to explain to you what will happen to your people in the future, for the vision concerns a time yet to come.” Romans 4:18 Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed. Hosea 12:6 Therefore, return to your God, Observe kindness and justice, And wait for your God continually. Psalm 27:14 Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord Psalm 33:20, 21 NIV “We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.” Psalm 33:3, 4 NLT “Sing a new song of praise to him; play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy. For the word of the Lord holds true, and we can trust everything he does.” 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.” Psalm 27:14 ESV “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” Psalm 46:1-3 CSB “God is our refuge and strength, a helper who is always found in times of trouble. Therefore we will not be afraid, though the earth trembles and the mountains topple into the depths of the seas, though its water roars and foams and the mountains quake with its turmoil. Selah” Psalm 121:1,2 NIV “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” (Listener did this- look for help!) Romans 8:37 NIV “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” We will conquer the gap with self-brain surgery of doing, seeking, praying, trusting, pressing in, looking for help. Hope-tox doesn't inject itself. John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Ephesians 3: “14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” Books mentioned in this episode  Almost Everything: Notes on Hope by Anne Lamott I've Seen the End of You by Dr. Lee Warren Check out the prayer wall! Consider supporting the podcast! Patrons get bonus episodes, transcripts, free books, and more! Tommy Walker's song, Wait on the Lord!

The Good News For and Through the Church The Good News in 4 Phrases  1. God with us. Matthew 1:23 (NIV)“‘The virgin will conceive and give birth to a Son, and they will call Him Immanuel' (which means ‘God with us').” Isaiah 14:7 (NIV)“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a Son, and will call Him Immanuel.” John 1:14 (ESV)“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” Hebrews 1:3 (ESV)“He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of His nature, and He upholds the universe by the word of His power.” John 3:16-17 (ESV)“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him.” “He who was the Son of God became the Son of man, that we who are sons of men have the promise that we can become sons of God.”- Pastor David Cook 2. God for us.  Luke 19:10 (ESV)“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Titus 2:14 (NIV)“(Jesus) gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good.” 1 Timothy 1:15 (ESV)“The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.” John 10:18 (NIV)“No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of My own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again.” 3. God in us. 2 Corinthians 1:22 (NIV)“(God) set His seal of ownership on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.” Colossians 1:26-27 (NIV)“The mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord's people. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” 1 Corinthians 6:19 (NIV)“Your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God…” 4. Us with God.  Revelation 21:1-4 (ESV)“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 22:20 (ESV)“Surely I am coming soon.” 

How can believers use the hope of Heaven to defeat the fear of death? In this Sunday message, bestselling author and speaker Lee Strobel reveals the secret to overcoming your greatest fears. Get real encouragement today! This Giving Tuesday, do big things and invest in transformed lives. If you believe in the work of evangelism that Harvest Ministries is doing, give today here or just go to harvest.org/support. Notes “My heart pounds in my chest; the terror of death assaults me.”  David in Psalm 55:4 (NLT) “…[God] has planted eternity in the human heart….”  Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NLT) “…[Jesus] set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.”  Hebrews 2:15 (NLT) “Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” John 14:1-3 (NLT) “God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.” 1 John 5:11 (NIV) “…Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?...Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:55,57 (NIV) “…No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT) Luis Palau's message to Christians: “Go for it!” “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6: 23 (NLT) Luis Palau's message to others: “Don't be stupid!” --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners. Support the show: https://harvest.org/support See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can believers use the hope of Heaven to defeat the fear of death? In this Sunday message, bestselling author and speaker Lee Strobel reveals the secret to overcoming your greatest fears. Get real encouragement today! This Giving Tuesday, do big things and invest in transformed lives. If you believe in the work of evangelism that Harvest Ministries is doing, give today here or just go to harvest.org/support. Notes “My heart pounds in my chest; the terror of death assaults me.”  David in Psalm 55:4 (NLT) “…[God] has planted eternity in the human heart….”  Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NLT) “…[Jesus] set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.”  Hebrews 2:15 (NLT) “Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” John 14:1-3 (NLT) “God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.” 1 John 5:11 (NIV) “…Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?...Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:55,57 (NIV) “…No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT) Luis Palau's message to Christians: “Go for it!” “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6: 23 (NLT) Luis Palau's message to others: “Don't be stupid!” --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners. Support the show: https://harvest.org/support See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Host Chae Cole talks about the importance of discipline. He suggest that discipline or the lack there of can affect the level of success that we experience. Being a successful employee, business owner, student, friend, and spouse all take discipline. To be successful, we have to master the art of being disciplined and showing extreme focus on achieving our goals. Listen to this episode to be inspired to be more disciplined. Scripture: Hebrews 12:11 NIV - No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Host: Chae Cole Intro/Closing Beat: Maurice Meyers IG: @mrdiggs23 Instagram: @Coletherapy Website: https://www.coletherapy.com Email: therapycole@gmail.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Another episode of The Pieces Podcast is here to enjoy! On this podcast we hope to facilitate opportunities to convene and learn more about God through music lead devotionals. Let's get excited to enjoy our love for music and Christ in one place. On today's podcast, we'll get into what anchor scriptures are, our next dissected song, and step into the listening room! Sign up to receive our exclusive “Pieces Made Whole II” Playlist! Anchor Scripture: An anchor scripture is that one scripture that holds a lot of power. It's a reminder that no matter how we might drift off or lose ourselves in the process of LIFE, it'll always help us recenter and remind us of the character and presence of God in our life. Special Shout-out to Izaiah D. for today's anchor scripture! Hebrews 12:11 NIV - “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Today's featured song: New Season x Israel Houghton Listen here: The Pieces Podcast Official Playlist - Apple Music or Spotify The lyrics say, “It's a new season, it's a new day A fresh anointing is flowing my way It's a season of power and prosperity It's a new season coming to me” We'll learn about God's Fatherly discipline, what to do when entering a new season of life, and the latest additions to The Listening Room. Tune into today's episode for the full breakdown. The Listening Room: Check out the songs featured on today's episode! Listen here: The Pieces Podcast The Listening Room - Apple Music or Spotify Subscribe, Comment, & download this podcast on your favorite listening platform. Email us at thepiecespodcast@gmail.com.  Follow us on Instagram @thepiecespodcast, Twitter @thepiecespod, and check out our website - www.thepiecespodcast.com!  Thanks for listening!

If, Wait, Then: The Surgery of Hope Life can be very difficult, and sometimes it seems like we're all alone and without hope in a dark world. But here's a few minutes about the self-brain surgery technique that will help you find hope and see the light again! Scriptures mentioned in this episode Habakkuk 1:2 “How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen?” Isaiah 30:18 (NIV) 18 Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! Habakkuk 2:3 “Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV 14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Isaiah 1:19 IF you are willing and obedient, (THEN) you will eat the best from the land Deuteronomy 28:1 IF you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, (THEN) the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. Daniel 10 (NIV) 2 At that time I, Daniel, mourned for three weeks. 3 I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips; and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over. 4 On the twenty-fourth day of the first month, as I was standing on the bank of the great river, the Tigris, 5 I looked up and there before me was a man dressed in linen, with a belt of fine gold from Uphaz around his waist. 6 His body was like topaz, his face like lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of burnished bronze, and his voice like the sound of a multitude. 7 I, Daniel, was the only one who saw the vision; those who were with me did not see it, but such terror overwhelmed them that they fled and hid themselves. 8 So I was left alone, gazing at this great vision; I had no strength left, my face turned deathly pale and I was helpless. 9 Then I heard him speaking, and as I listened to him, I fell into a deep sleep, my face to the ground. 10 A hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees. 11 He said, “Daniel, you who are highly esteemed, consider carefully the words I am about to speak to you, and stand up, for I have now been sent to you.” And when he said this to me, I stood up trembling. 12 Then he continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. 13 But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. 14 Now I have come to explain to you what will happen to your people in the future, for the vision concerns a time yet to come.” Romans 4:18 Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed. Hosea 12:6 Therefore, return to your God, Observe kindness and justice, And wait for your God continually. Psalm 27:14 Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord Psalm 33:20, 21 NIV “We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.” Psalm 33:3, 4 NLT “Sing a new song of praise to him; play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy. For the word of the Lord holds true, and we can trust everything he does.” 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.” Psalm 27:14 ESV “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” Psalm 46:1-3 CSB “God is our refuge and strength, a helper who is always found in times of trouble. Therefore we will not be afraid, though the earth trembles and the mountains topple into the depths of the seas, though its water roars and foams and the mountains quake with its turmoil. Selah” Psalm 121:1,2 NIV “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” (Listener did this- look for help!) Romans 8:37 NIV “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” We will conquer the gap with self-brain surgery of doing, seeking, praying, trusting, pressing in, looking for help. Hope-tox doesn’t inject itself. John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Ephesians 3: “14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” Books mentioned in this episode  Almost Everything: Notes on Hope by Anne Lamott I've Seen the End of You by Dr. Lee Warren Check out the prayer wall! Consider supporting the podcast! Patrons get bonus episodes, transcripts, free books, and more! Tommy Walker's song, Wait on the Lord!

Luke 18:18-25 The rich young rule parable ended and the scripture go on to say that they that heard it said among themselves "who then can be saved?" In other words within all those people who heard him I would assume some were rich. Again I want to stress the fact it is not a sin to be rich or wealthy; as long as you don't let it become your God whereas you hoard it, you love it and worship it to the point you are not willing to reach out to help your fellow man, not your fellow rich man; but your fellow man, help all human kind. That's part of the reason why God bless you with that wealth is to see if you will manage it wisely and help your fellow man. As with the Rich Young ruler God was visiting his heart to see if he was willing to allow God to pry those riches from his heart to serve God, followed by the outward expression of giving it to the needy and we know the story ended with the young ruler being very sorrowful. I'm sure he spent many years building this wealth but you see the Rich Command is you don't hoard this wealth but share it, because otherwise it can become your God. I think it's better said in (Luke 16:13) in the NIV: "No one can serve two masters either you will hate the one and love the other or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other, you cannot serve both God and money." If you had need of prayer we'd love to pray with you, contact us at: heavensprayerlink.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/heavensprayerlink/support

“The Amalekites came and attacked the Israelites at Rephidim. Moses said to Joshua, ‘Choose some of our men and go out to fight the Amalekites. Tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hands.’” Exodus 17:8-9 (NIV)   “So Joshua fought the Amalekites as Moses had ordered, and Moses, Aaron and Hur went to the top of the hill. As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword.” Exodus 17:10-13 (NIV)   “Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Write this on a scroll as something to be remembered and make sure that Joshua hears it, because I will completely blot out the name of Amalek from under heaven.’ Moses built an altar and called it The Lord is my Banner. He said, ‘Because hands were lifted up against the throne of the Lord, the Lord will be at war against the Amalekites from generation to generation.’” Exodus 17:14-16 (NIV)   No matter what battle you face,   The battle belongs to the Lord.   “But you have raised a banner for those who fear you – a rallying point in the face of attack.” Psalm 60:4 (NLT)   The battle is fought on your knees.   “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes you will be able to stand your ground. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV)

It's time for our first minisode of The Pieces Podcast! On this podcast we hope to facilitate opportunities to convene and learn more about God through music lead devotionals. Let's get excited to enjoy our love for music and Christ in one place. On today's podcast, we'll get an alternative take on scripture and music for difficult times. When your faith is tested and you don't know what to do....CHOOSE TO TRUST HIM. For this special bonus playlist, we'll share with you key scriptures and songs to turn to when you need a reminder.  Our Scripture playlist includes:  -Joshua 1:5 NIV - “No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.” -Psalm 32:8 NIV - “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” -Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV - “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him,  and he will make your paths straight.” -Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV - “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” -John 13:7 NIV - “Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” -Isaiah 30:41 NIV - “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” -Jeremiah 29:11 NIV - “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Listen here: The Press Play and Trust Playlist - Apple Music or Spotify Note from the curator: Listen in order and be prepared for smooth transitions.  Subscribe, Comment, & download this podcast on your favorite listening platform.

Text: various Theme: For most of our lives, we are fed lies when it comes to money and possessions. Jesus, however, speaks the truth about our stuff. In fact, it may surprise you, but Jesus talked a lot about money issues. In order to find real freedom in our finances, we have to listen to the One who tells us the truth. Key Verse: Matthew 6:24 (NIV) “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.”

SCRIPTURAL FOCUS: Romans 8:26 (NASB); Psalm 34:18 (ESV); Jeremiah 17:14 (NIV) No pain is alike, yet all of us at some point in our lives, will become very well acquainted with it and find ourselves on a precipice. No human being is exempt from the experience of pain and suffering. It varies in degree and severity, yet despite the spectrum of pain any one person is on, whether it is physical, emotional, financial or spiritual, we all need the same Savior to respond to our prayers. Are you feeling like you're close to the edge? Do you know that you can turn to God for rescue and relief? Host Minister Mignon Seals offers you this latest podcast, "The Precipice", to encourage you to turn to God and His Word when you're contending with circumstances that are overwhelming and beyond the scope of your control. Remain encouraged, make time to Selah every day and don't forget to join us next week to pray together. Connect with Selah Vie! and host Mignon Seals in the following places: We're pleased to inform you the Selah Vie! Christian Podcast & Blog is available on all major podcasting sites. You can listen now AND view a full transcript of this episode by going to http://www.justselah.com. Apple users can listen by clicking here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/selah-vie/id1512312597 GIVE US A SHOUT OR SHOUT ABOUT US! Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/justselahvie Instagram at: http://www.instagram.com/selahvie_life All content © 2020 Selah Vie! Christian Podcast & Blog - All Rights Reserved. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mignon-seals/message

Hebrews 12:11 NKJ “Now no [a]chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:11 NIV “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Knowing when your goals should be done is very important because if you are making goals and don’t know when you are wanting to have it accomplished then it means nothing until you know. Goals need a time frame to be accomplished and you must have the discipline to accomplish your goals. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/pink-millionaire/message

Do you feel trapped by a difficult problem? Perhaps you have a medical problem, a legal problem, or a relationship problem. Find hope in Psalm 91:2.Trapped Like a BirdWhen I walked into my living one morning last summer, I noticed my two cats behaving unusually.Standing on their hind legs, they had their front paws propped up on the cold metal rim of the wood stove door and were staring intently through the glass-plated door into the dim interior.Wondering what could possibly have them so enthralled, I joined them in peering into the stove. There, I saw a small bird fluttering in the ashes. Somehow the bird had fallen down the stove pipe and, because the chimney is so narrow, it was unable to fly back out. Despite its efforts to escape, it was hopelessly trapped. Moved with compassion for its plight, I set out on a mission to liberate it.After locking my cats in a separate room, I opened all the doors and windows in my living room to give the bird plenty of exit points. Then, I carefully unsealed the wood stove door. Hungry for fresh air and open skies, the little bird rocketed out of the stove and straight out the back door, a little dusty but otherwise unharmed.Sometimes in life, I feel like that bird—trapped by my problems with no discernible way out. Try as I might, I can’t untangle the trouble myself.  When those times come and I’m tempted to become discouraged, I like to remind myself that what seems impossible from my point of view is easily solvable from God’s perspective. He sees the doors that I can’t see, and He knows the perfect time to open them.How about you?Do you feel trapped by a difficult problem?Perhaps you have a medical problem, a legal problem, or a relationship problem that feels insurmountable. Perhaps you’ve turned to the left, and you’ve turned to the right, and there is no solution in sight.If so, find hope and comfort in the words of God found in Psalm 91:2: “Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name” (NIV)No matter how impossible your situation seems, God can make a way where there seems to be no way. While you wait for Him to rescue you, focus on loving Him and trusting Him. Hold fast to Him, and wait patiently for His deliverance. Just like the door eventually opened for my little bird, the door to freedom will open for you too.Read the full devotion at https://devotableapp.com/daily-devotion-psalm-91-2-trapped-by-a-difficult-problem/

Show Notes ~~~ Please be sure to listen at minute 21:54...I share some honest stuff that I don't want anyone to miss (also at the very end of the show notes below)   Psalm 33:16&18 (NIV) - No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength. - But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him, on those who hope in His unfailing love.   What's true for the prince is true for the pauper when it comes to Biblical truth.   God is not a respecter or persons. The Word of God offers this proof: Romans 2:11 (NIV) - For God does not show favoritism. Acts 10:34 (KJV) - Then Peter opened his mouth and said, "Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons."   God doesn't show partiality. He will not respect one person over another person - He just won't do that! So regarding our verses from Psalm 33, let me say once again that what is true for the prince is true for the pauper in God's kingdom.   Isaiah 54:17 tells us that no weapon formed against us will prosper...it doesn't say the weapons won't form against us, but it does promise those weapons will not prosper against us. Those are two very different things, for which I am so thankful! (The Amplified Bible phrases it like this - "no weapon formed against you will succeed.")   Isaiah 54:17 (NKJV) - "No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is from Me," says the LORD.   TRUTH BOMB: Do you fear the Lord?   What does "fear of the Lord" really mean? God tells us over and over again in His Word not to be afraid...and yet He also tells us we are to fear Him. How do these two fit together?  (see Deuteronomy 31:8 & Romans 8:28 & Isaiah 43:1 & 1 John 4:18) Fear of the Lord involves a sense of awe, magnifying God for who He truly is, revering Him, respecting Him, obeying Him and trusting Him, acknowledging that He is Sovereign. Proverbs 9:10 (AMP) - The (reverent) fear of the LORD (that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome) is the beginning and the preeminent part of wisdom (its starting point and its essence). And the knowledge of the Holy ONe is understanding and spiritual insight.   When we look at fear of the Lord as a way to honor, revere, esteem, glorify Him it turns our typical definition of fear on its head.   Here's a question for you: Does that definition of fear of the Lord sound like a good description of your walk with Jesus? (not your Wed. night Bible study or Sun. morning worship walk, but your every day walk)   There is a promised blessing in this verse that comes when we fear the Lord. Our fear of the Lord is our baseline for the promise to be true in our lives.   And that promise is..... The Lord's EYES are on YOU! Don't blow past this too quickly! Allow yourself a moment to grab hold of this promise. The Lord's eyes are on you! Imagine being at Buckingham Palace & the Queen of England having her eyes fixed solely on you. You're the focal point of her gaze. She is looking upon you with the highest favor & she does not take her eyes off of you. Every movement is noted and noticed. No way, no how someone could make a move against you because where her eyes lie are also where her Royal Guard is watching...one signal from her and they will handle a situation before it can become a situation. Now that is a small idea of what it means to have the Lord's eyes on you. This promise is a really big deal! And this promise is yours!   I know sometimes it is really hard to keep hoping. Sometimes we have to make the decision to just believe again, to hope against hope. I pray you can do that today. Don't live a hopeless life. Believe again - hope again. ANd gain the tremendous blessing this verse grants to you today.   NOW FOR SOMETHING PERSONAL... I am part of a conference for the new year, and I have 3 sessions in this online conference (there are over 80 total sessions by 50 speakers & it's all online). But I almost didn't complete the session called "Redeeming an Orphan Spirit". I have never in my life been under the kind of spiritual attack that took place as I worked on this topic. I almost didn't finish it - things have been very, very intense to say the least. I did end up completing the work and that conference session goes live on Friday, January 10th. This probably sounds "slimy & salesy" but I am saying this anyway (look, the couple of bucks I make on an affiliate ticket is not worth the spiritual attack I've dealt with so that's not why I am sharing about this session). If the enemy was working that hard to keep me from finishing this thing, then it is possibly because he has a fair number of God's children living more like orphans than like children of the Most High God...and I don't think he wants that to change. He cannot steal your salvation - you cannot be snatched from Jesus' hand, those are His words & they are 100% true - but he can work hard to keep you living far beneath the Lord's will for your life. So if that sounds like your life, please consider grabbing a ticket to the conference. It is call the "New Year, New Beginnings 2020 Conference for Moms" so many of the sessions are aimed at women...but if you are a dude, hey for the price of maybe one lunch out this week & a couple of Starbucks, you can grab a ticket and honestly, if you might be dealing with this sense of being an orphan, then that's worth the $25. But you can only get tickets through January 10th (that's Friday) and then you don't have access to this ever again. Here is the link - I sure hope you check it out because I am telling you what, based on what I have experienced as of late, satan does not want you to know about the orphan spirit. Let's not let him have the upper hand! Redeeming An Orphan Spirit conference session goes live Friday January 10th   Find me here:   Titus 2 Discipleship with Jan L. Burt membership site (Titus2DiscipleshipwithJanLBurt.com)        on Instagram ~ @titus2disciplejanburt        on Facebook ~ Titus 2 Discipleship with Jan L. Burt        sign up for my newsletter ~ God's Promises for You  

This episode is part of the Overcomer series. We originally recorded these teachings inside our Christian Book Academy Facebook group as live videos. However, we wanted to also encourage you in the writing, publishing and marketing of your books. Today's topic is: Victor not Victim Scriptures: “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” - 1 Corinthians‬ ‭15:57‬ ‭NIV‬‬ “No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.” - ‭‭Romans‬ ‭8:37‬ ‭NLT‬‬ “They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord. Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear; in the end, they will look in triumph on their foes.” - Psalms 112: 7-8 NIV We hope this episode encourages and inspires you in your writing. We recently wrote a new PDF called "8 Surprisingly Simple Writing Tips" that we want to share with you for free. Download it now here: http://www.trainingauthors.com/writingtips/ This series is sponsored by Christian Book Academy where we help you give birth to your books. We invite you to join our community of Kingdom Writers here: http://christianbookacademy.com

In this Lectio Divina episode, Erin guides us through Lectio Divina with Romans 8:37-39. Lectio Divina is a way of listening to Scripture with a prayerful Spirit. Sit back, create some space, and encounter God in Scripture! Romans 8:37-39 (NIV) “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. […]

LAZARUS COME FORTH!In our Twenty-Fifth Episode Jesus demonstrates His power over life and death, raising Lazarus from the grave, as we continue with “Life’s Meaning and Purpose: an in-depth study of the Gospel of John.”With so much that can and does go wrong in our world, it can be hard to see the silver lining. Bad news seems to dominate the airwaves, and even in moments of peace it feels more like the calm before the storm. It’s in these times that we need to be reminded of Paul’s words in his letter to the Romans where he writes, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (‭‭Romans‬ ‭8:38-39‬ ‭NIV‬‬) No matter what we face in this life, God’s love is with us in Christ. This is the very same love, and the very same God who, in our lesson for this week, raises Lazarus from the dead. If we believe Jesus is who He says He is, even if there is nothing else to hope for in this world, we have hope in Christ, and He is all we really need.

Practical Parenting Tools with Author and Speaker, Sue Heimer   Hebrews 12:11 (NIV) “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”    Sue Heimer is an author, Biblical Counselor, Bible teacher and international speaker. She is a sought after conference and retreat speaker inspiring thousands of women each year with her messages of hope. Sue recently authored When You Feel Like Screaming: Practical Helpfor Frustrated Moms, is the contributor to multiple books including What I Wish I Had Known, and is a regularly featured writer for Focus on the Family and Fithlife publications. Her greatest blessing and joy is being a wife to Curt, for over 30 years, and mom to four adult sons who, along with their spouses, continue to add grandchildren to their lives.    At The Savvy Sauce, we will only recommend resources we believe in! We also want you to be aware: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.    Sue Heimer's Book  Sue Heimer's website Connect with Sue on facebook @sueheimer   Thank You to Our Sponsor: Chick-fil-A East Peoria   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!   Also, check out our Patreon Page to find out how to gain access to additional podcasts and freebies!   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.”

Thank you for listening to another episode of After The Benediction with Laquon and Donovan. Today’s verse of the day is 1 John 4:12 NIV "No one has ever seen God, but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.”

“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.” Matthew 6:1 (NIV) “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:2-4 (NIV) …so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:4 (NIV) “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:5-6 (NIV) But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:6 (NIV) And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name…” Matthew 6:7-9 (NIV) “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.' Matthew 6:9-13 (NIV) For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV) “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:16-18 (NIV) “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV) For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21 (NIV) “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! Matthew 6:22-23 (NIV) “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. Matthew 6:24 (NIV)

Every one of us has been tempted into sin in our lives. We face it every single day. But God can deliver us from that temptation, we only have to surrender to His work. Adam Barnett continues our look at how the presence of God changes everything by looking at how God delivers us from temptation. I Am Tempted…But God Delivers Me But God... | Week 2 May 6, 2018 | Adam Barnett Transformation happens when we stop saying, “But I…” and we start saying, “But God.” 1 Corinthians 10:6 [NIV] Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did. “The only thing we learn from history is that we don’t learn from history.” — Fredrick Hegel 1 Corinthians 10:12 [NIV] So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! 1 Corinthians 10:13 [NIV] No temptation has overtaken you that is unusual for human beings. But God is faithful, and he will not allow you to be tempted beyond your strength. Instead, along with the temptation he will also provide a way out, so that you may be able to endure it. I am tempted, but God delivers me. 1 | God is not surprised by temptation. 2 | God allows us to be tempted. James 1:13-15 [NIV] When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Evil Desire → Temptation → Sin→ Habitual Sin → Death 3 | God helps us overcome temptation. Romans 7:18-24 [NIV] For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Romans 7:25 [NIV] Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!

To lead people into a new life of freedom in Jesus. It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1 (NIV) “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but not everything is constructive. 1 Corinthians 10:23-24 (NIV) No one should seek their own good, but the good of others. 1 Corinthians 10:23-24 (NIV) Before your freedom will ever be EXPERIENCED, it will be SPOKEN. The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21-22 (NIV) He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord. Proverbs 18:21-22 (NIV) “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. Luke 6:43-45 (NIV) A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. Luke 6:43-45 (NIV) For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” Luke 6:43-45 (NIV) To change what's coming out, you have to change what's going in. 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… Philippians 4:8  (NIV) 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. 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV) Give up your right to say whatever comes to your mind. When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. James 3:3-8 (NIV) Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. James 3:3-8 (NIV) Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one's life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. James 3:3-8 (NIV) All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. James 3:3-8 (NIV) Learn the language of Freedom. Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. James 3:13-17 (NIV) But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. James 3:13-17 (NIV) But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. James 3:13-17 (NIV) Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. James 3:13-17 (NIV) “Peace follows purity, and depends upon it. Those who are truly wise do what they can to preserve peace, that it may not be broken; and to make peace, that where it is lost it may be restored. In kingdoms, in families, in churches, in all societies, and in all interviews and transactions, heavenly wisdom makes men peaceable.” – Matthew Henry Become whole. “Not he who thinks well, or he who talks well, is in the sense of the scripture allowed to be wise, if he do not live and act well.” – Matthew Henry So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service… Ephesians 4:11-15 (NIV) …so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-15 (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. Ephesians 4:11-15 (NIV) Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. Ephesians 4:11-15 (NIV)

…Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” Acts 19:1-2 (NIV) Because we need a constant revelation of JESUS “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. John 16:12-14 (NIV) He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. John 16:12-14 (NIV) If we will change what we SEEK, it will change what we SEE. Because we need a guide into the things of GOD And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you 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 1:13-20 (NIV)   For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God's people, 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. Ephesians 1:13-20 (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, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. Ephesians 1:13-20 (NIV)   That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms… Ephesians 1:13-20 (NIV) Because we need help staying UNITED as the CHURCH They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Acts 2:42-47 (NIV) Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:42-47 (NIV) Because we need BOLDNESS to carry this message into the WORLD But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8 (NIV) Power = dunamis (DYNAMITE) Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It's only nine in the morning! Acts 2:14-17 (NIV) No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: “In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people.” Acts 2:14-17 (NIV) Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. Acts 2:41 (NIV) Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. John 14:12 (NIV) The Holy Spirit's POWER in your life is for the PEOPLE in your world.

1 Corinthians 2:9 NIV "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him."

THIS TITHE IS ALIVE! - In God We Trust, Part 2 09.18.16 Mat Cotner Hebrews 4:12-13 NLT For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. 13Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. In God We Trust Explained: AS SONS AND DAUGHTERS, WE ARE INVITED INTO PARTNERSHIP WITH OUR HEAVENLY FATHER IN HIS FAMILY BUSINESS. “IT’S ALIVE!” The Shocking Truth That Awakens Dead Tithing: 1. The Word Tithe In Hebrew Means: A Tenth Or 10% Leviticus 27:30 & 32 NIV A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD... Every tithe of the herd and flock, every tenth animal that passes under the shepherd’s rod, will be holy to the Lord. 2. It Belongs To The Lord Malachi 3:6-10(a) NIV “I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. “But you ask, ‘How are we to return?’ “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ “In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house...” 3. It Comes First Leviticus 27:26 NIV No one, however, may dedicate the firstborn of an animal, since the firstborn already belongs to the LORD – See Also Ex 13:12-15 Ex 22:29-30, Ex 23:19, Num 3:13, Num 8:16 4. It Is Holy To The Lord Leviticus 27:28 NIV But nothing that a person owns and devotes to the LORD — whether a human being or animal or family land — may be sold or redeemed; everything so devoted is most holy to the LORD. Old Testament vs. New Testament: Why So Much Controversy? Old Testament = You HAVE TO or you will be punished! Vs. New Testament = You GET TO and you will be rewarded! 2 Corinthians 9:7-8 NIV Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. What happens when we give God what is His setting it apart as first and holy? Malachi 3:10(b) NIV ...Test me in this,” says the LORD Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. The Umbrella of God: Where are you in regards to your giving?

Adam Barnett continues our series of Reset by discussing how are are to face temptation when it comes. Temptation Reset | Week 5 March 6, 2016 | Adam Barnett Romans 3:23 (NIV) For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, Romans 3:24 (NIV) and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. James 1:13 (NIV) When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone, 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV) No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. 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 stand up under it. James 1:14 (NIV) but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. James 1:15 (NIV) Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death 1 Peter 5:8 (NIV) Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. The progression of temptation: Evil Desire → Temptation → Sin → Habitual Sin → Death James 1:12 (NIV) Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. 2 Corinthians 4: 17-18 (NIV) For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever. So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.

NotesVerses{“Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.” Psalm 86:11 NIV}{“No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”...

This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NLT) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;  and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV) I have no one else like him, who will show genuine concern for your welfare. Philippians 2:20 (NIV) There is a big difference between genuine concern and needless anxiety.  What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31 (NIV)  He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Romans 8:32 (NIV) No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39 (NIV) Control what you can (YOU) and trust God with all the THINGS you can't.   “Worry is a down payment on a problem you may never even have.” – Joyce Myers  That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. Mark 4:35-39 (NIV) A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Mark 4:37 (NIV) Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don't you care if we drown?” Mark 4:38 (NIV) He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” Mark 4:39-40 (NIV) They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” Mark 4:41 (NIV) He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” Mark 4:39-40 (NIV) Jesus doesn't allow storms to test us… but to TEACH us. …When troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.  For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.  So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. James 1:2-4 (NLT) If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.  But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind.  James 1:5-6 (NLT) If you learn how to calm the waves within… you'll learn how to ride the waves without. He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” 11 The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Psalm 46:10-11 (NIV) The bravest thing you can do in the storm… is worship the one who controls the wind. 

Acts 9:10 NIV In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord,” he answered. Acts 9:11 NIV The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. Romans 3:23 NIV for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God Acts 9:12 NIV In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.” Acts 9:13 NIV “Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. Acts 9:14 NIV And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.” Acts 9:15 NIV But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. Matthew 8:4 NIV Then Jesus said to him, “See that you don't tell anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.” John 4:16 NIV He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” John 8:11 NIV “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” Mark 16:15 NIV He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God Acts 9:15 NIV But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. Col 3:1-3 NIV Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.

Title:  MARKED   (Acts 20:24) (NLT) But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.   (Hebrews 12:1-2) (NIV) Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.   Reasons we don't run:   1.  Fear of Harm   (2 Timothy 1:7) (NLT) For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.   2. Identity Crisis   (Jeremiah 31:3) (MSG)  “I've never quit loving you and never will. Expect love, love, and more love!   (Ephesians 3:18) (NLT) And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is.   SIX KEYS TO RUN THE RACE   1. Prepare   (1 Corinthians 9:25) (NLT)  All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.   2. Perceive   (1 Corinthians 9:25) (NLT)  All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.   3. Purpose   (1 Corinthians 9:26) (NLT)  Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air.   When people lose their WHY they lose their WAY.   4. Proceed    (1 Corinthians 9:24) (NLT)  Don't you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win!   5. Pursue   (1 Corinthians 9:24) (NLT)  Don't you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win!   (Philippians 3:14) (NLT) I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.   6. Persist   (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.   (2 Timothy 4:7) (NIV) I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.   "In order to run our race and finish our course, we need to understand that God has an appointed time that is usually different to our due date." –Christine Caine   Vows of Mother Teresa   God, I yield myself fully to you. I embrace your calling on my life. I will do your bidding without delay. I will refuse you nothing. I will endure all hardships. When I don't feel your presence, I will still be faithful. I will seek to love you as you have never been loved before. Here am I; send me.  

(Luke 2:9-11) (NIV) 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. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.Title: You (John 8:12) (NLT) Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”(Acts 26:17-18) (NLT) Yes, I am sending you to the Gentiles to open their eyes, so they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God's people, who are set apart by faith in me.  The Law, The Love, The Light. 1.  The law reveals our guilt. (John 8:1-3) (NLT) Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them. As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd.(John 8:4-5) (NLT) “Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery.  The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?” Until we see ourselves as sinners we will not see our need for a Savior. 2. His love reveals His grace.(John 8:6)(NLT) 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.(John 8:7)(NLT) They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!”(John 8:9)(NLT) When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman.(John 8:10)(NLT) Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn't even one of them condemn you?”(John 8:11)(NIV) “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared.  The language of the dark speaks death, the language of the light speaks life.  (Luke 8:11)(NIV) “Go now and leave your life of sin.”3.  The Light reveals our hope.(Luke 8:12) (NIV) When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Jasmine Doster discusses the 3 Dangers of Worshiping Money. I once heard someone say another word for worship is what your eyes are behold, what do you have your eyes on? Are they on Christ or are they on Money? What is more important to you? What is your real value system? You make time for what is most important to you. Key Scriptures: Luke 16:13 (NIV) "No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money." 1 Timothy 6:9 ASV But they that are minded to be rich fall into a temptation and a snare and many foolish and hurtful lusts, such as drown men in destruction and perdition.

Today we are diving into our last message in our series, “THE ANCHOR” (The HOPE we have because of Jesus…)  We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure…Hebrews 6:19 (NIV) Hope = Confident expectation based on something solid “My  hope is built on nothing less… than Jesus' blood and righteousness.” Maybe today you walked in, HOPELESS… If that's you today, look around you, stop and ask someone to share their story.    Recap:  What is HOPE? / Where does HOPE come from? / HOPE for my future Our number one prayer for you is this… that you latch onto this HOPE we have in Jesus.  HOPE that keeps us standing, when the entire world is shaken…HOPE that never fails.  Because of this HOPE… we are anchored, secure… 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 (NIV) Transition:  Today we will look at our final thought on HOPE… What some call, THE BLESED HOPE…The ultimate hope that there really is something beyond this life.   (Pray) Story/Illustration: Transition:  You see, the hope we have is not solely to get through this life… but it's hope NOW that there is another level of HOPE… Heaven. With as much HOPE as we have now, we still face things… hard times, difficulties, obstacles. (My Season of ministry… “Why can't I find balance?” “Because this isn't home.”) We will have seasons of pain/suffering/frustration… and we learned a couple weeks ago that that is part of God's process of producing HOPE in us. 3 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope… Romans 5:2-4 (ESV) The ultimate HOPE we have is that this life is NOT all there is… there is an eternity of JOY and PEACE that awaits us!   11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ… Titus 2:11-13 (NIV) (Eternal life) We have to change our focus… from just finding hope in this life, to living our life in light of our eternal hope…(Peoples efforts to find hope HERE)  Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. 14 For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.                                    1 Thessalonians 4:13-15 (NIV) The HOPE of Jesus is what has caused “Death to lose it's Sting”…(1 cor. 15:55) 6 As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.  2 Timothy 4:6-8 (NLT) At the end of your life… and everyday… THIS is the goal (James… your life is but a vapor) Heaven is a reality we need to live in… But there are a lot of misconceptions of Heave; Clouds, robes, halos Never ending church service (singing forever) Celestial retirement home So unreal… Transition:  But what does the bible say about Heaven? Heaven is a REAL place Revelation 21… talks all about the city of Heaven, New Jerusalem.   1400 miles in every direction / walls 200 ft. thick of solid jasper / 12 gates made from a single pearl / transparent streets of gold… amazing! My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. John 14:2-3 (NIV) Heaven is a RIGHT place Think about every wrong with this life… your life… And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God's dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Revelation 21:3-5 (NIV) No pain, disappointment, insecurity, loss of innocence, worry, fear, bills, sickness... Heaven is a RELATIONAL place A place where you will see your loved ones who walked with Jesus… (Those who didn't?) For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:17-18 (NIV) Heaven is a REWARDING place “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. Revelation 22:12 (NKJV) Transition:  That's great that we have that to look forward to, but how do we have ETERNAL HOPE… Now? Remove Your Doubt I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6 (NLT) Replace Your Anxiety 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. 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV) Refocus Your Energy When we truly understand heaven… we will live different. Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV) Big Idea: Hope is not some elusive idea or feeling that we are always chasing... Hope is not some cliche that hangs on our walls... Hope is real... tangible... available. Challenge:  If we will commit to these 4 areas... Not only will we find supernatural levels of HOPE in our lives, but God will use us to carry that HOPE into our world... Where are you this morning? Salvation?

Today we are diving into our last message in our series, “THE ANCHOR” (The HOPE we have because of Jesus…)    We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure…Hebrews 6:19 (NIV)   Hope = Confident expectation based on something solid   “My  hope is built on nothing less… than Jesus' blood and righteousness.”   Maybe today you walked in, HOPELESS… If that's you today, look around you, stop and ask someone to share their story.     Recap:  What is HOPE? / Where does HOPE come from? / HOPE for my future   Our number one prayer for you is this… that you latch onto this HOPE we have in Jesus.  HOPE that keeps us standing, when the entire world is shaken…HOPE that never fails.  Because of this HOPE… we are anchored, secure… 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 (NIV) Transition:  Today we will look at our final thought on HOPE… What some call, THE BLESED HOPE…The ultimate hope that there really is something beyond this life.   (Pray)   Story/Illustration:   Transition:  You see, the hope we have is not solely to get through this life… but it's hope NOW that there is another level of HOPE… Heaven.   With as much HOPE as we have now, we still face things… hard times, difficulties, obstacles.   (My Season of ministry… “Why can't I find balance?” “Because this isn't home.”)   We will have seasons of pain/suffering/frustration… and we learned a couple weeks ago that that is part of God's process of producing HOPE in us.   3 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope… Romans 5:2-4 (ESV) The ultimate HOPE we have is that this life is NOT all there is… there is an eternity of JOY and PEACE that awaits us!  11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ… Titus 2:11-13 (NIV) (Eternal life)   We have to change our focus… from just finding hope in this life, to living our life in light of our eternal hope…(Peoples efforts to find hope HERE)  Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. 14 For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.                                    1 Thessalonians 4:13-15 (NIV) The HOPE of Jesus is what has caused “Death to lose it's Sting”…(1 cor. 15:55) 6 As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.  2 Timothy 4:6-8 (NLT) At the end of your life… and everyday… THIS is the goal (James… your life is but a vapor)   Heaven is a reality we need to live in… But there are a lot of misconceptions of Heave; §  Clouds, robes, halos §  Never ending church service (singing forever) §  Celestial retirement home §  So unreal…   Transition:  But what does the bible say about Heaven?   1.    Heaven is a REAL place   Revelation 21… talks all about the city of Heaven, New Jerusalem.    1400 miles in every direction / walls 200 ft. thick of solid jasper / 12 gates made from a single pearl / transparent streets of gold… amazing! My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. John 14:2-3 (NIV) 2.    Heaven is a RIGHT place   Think about every wrong with this life… your life… And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God's dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Revelation 21:3-5 (NIV) No pain, disappointment, insecurity, loss of innocence, worry, fear, bills, sickness... 3.    Heaven is a RELATIONAL place   A place where you will see your loved ones who walked with Jesus… (Those who didn't?)   For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:17-18 (NIV)   4.    Heaven is a REWARDING place “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. Revelation 22:12 (NKJV) Transition:  That's great that we have that to look forward to, but how do we have ETERNAL HOPE… Now? 1.    Remove Your Doubt I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6 (NLT) 2.    Replace Your Anxiety 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. 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV) 3.    Refocus Your Energy   When we truly understand heaven… we will live different. Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV) Big Idea: Hope is not some elusive idea or feeling that we are always chasing... Hope is not some cliche that hangs on our walls...   Hope is real... tangible... available.   Challenge:  If we will commit to these 4 areas... Not only will we find supernatural levels of HOPE in our lives, but God will use us to carry that HOPE into our world...   Where are you this morning?   Salvation?