Podcasts about niv therefore

Today, Stasi is joined by Emily Wilson Hussem—author, speaker, YouTuber, wife, and mother—to discuss Emily's new book, Sincerely, Stoneheart. Emily pulls back the curtain on the enemy's relentless schemes to attack our hearts. Satan attempts to fill us with fear and discouragement to keep us from stepping into the fullness of who we truly are in Christ. We each hold a unique beauty that God placed within us, and when we root ourselves in God, we can step boldly into the life we are created for.…..SHOW NOTES:…..VERSES: Psalm 23:1 (NIV) – The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.Psalm 103:12 (NIV) – as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.Matthew 6:34 (NIV) – Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.2 Corinthians 2:11 (NIV) – in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.John 10:10 (NIV) – The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.John 8:32 (NIV) – Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.…..EMILY WILSON HUSSEMWebsite: https://emilywilsonministries.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/emilyywilsonnInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/emwilss/Book: Sincerely, Stoneheart: Unmask the Enemy's Lies, Find the Truth That Sets You Free   https://amzn.to/4kl4nDhMarcam: A live action, educational and entertaining kids show for children ages 2 - 6  https://marcamshow.com/Emily Wilson Hussem Bio:Emily Wilson Hussem is a speaker, author, wife, and mother who shares her witness of faith at conferences and events across the globe. She shares on the topics of femininity, faith, dating, motherhood, and relationships, and her books, videos, and talks continue to inspire and encourage women of all ages. Emily lives in Southern California with her husband, Daniël, and their three glorious children, Zion, Jedidiah, and Pearl. …..RESOURCESThe Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis  https://amzn.to/3FumB5gCaptivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul by John and Stasi Eldredge  https://wahe.art/3L9tLMc…..Don't Miss Out on the Next Episode – Subscribe for FreeSubscribe using your favorite podcast app:YouTube: https://wahe.art/4jFlAXuSpotify Podcasts – https://spoti.fi/42SsOipApple Podcasts – https://apple.co/42E0oZ1 Google Podcasts – http://wahe.art/3M81kxLAmazon Music & Audible – https://amzn.to/3M9u6hJ

Send us a textEpisode Title: How to Be Set Free from Our Human Nature

Flute 360 | Episode 322: “From Overwhelm to Focus – Doubling Down on What Truly Matters” (Part 4) After countless creative ideas and the constant challenge juggling everyday life, many modern flutists feel stuck—unable to bring their art to life and achieve both creative and financial fulfillment. In this empowering episode, Dr. Heidi Kay Begay shares her personal journey of cutting through the noise to focus on what truly matters. Whether you're juggling multiple projects, overwhelmed by endless ideas, or just unsure where to start, this episode is designed to guide you in transforming creative chaos into purposeful action. Main Points: Embracing Creativity Amid Overwhelm: Discover why having too many ideas is not a flaw—it's a sign of your vibrant creative spirit. Hear the story of my friend, and learn why a systematic approach is essential. Focusing in the Present: Understand the transformative power of “consume less, produce more.” Be inspired by the timeless wisdom of Matthew 6:34 (NIV): “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Prioritizing Projects and Saying “No”: Learn actionable techniques for choosing your top priority and saying “no” to distractions. Find out how focusing on one task at a time leads to real progress and fulfillment. Nourishing Your First Instrument — Yourself: Explore why taking care of your body is vital to sustaining creativity. Get practical advice on cutting down on stimulants and embracing whole foods. PICKS! -Book: John Doerr – “Measure What Matters” -Bonus Recipe: Spinach Wrap Ingredients: • 1/3 cup low-fat cottage cheese • A handful of organic spinach leaves • 2 small eggs Instructions: Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Spread the mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with Einstein Bros Everything Bagel Seasoning. Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Fill with your favorite ingredients like turkey meat, tomatoes, mustard, mushrooms, and cheese. Just for You! Learn More About the Coaching Bundle Ready to bring your creativity to life? Purchase my exclusive coaching bundle before 4/30/25 to save $200 (calls can be scheduled in the spring or summer). Join the Flute 360's Accelerator Program Here! The next session is Saturday, 04/26/25 from 11 AM CT to 1 PM CT. TIER 1 for $37 TIER 2 for $67 TIER 3 for $97 Follow Heidi! Follow Flute 360 via TikTok! Follow Flute 360 via Instagram! Follow Flute 360 via Twitter! Follow Flute 360 via LinkedIn! Follow Flute 360 via Facebook! Subscribe to the Flute 360's YouTube Channel! Join the Flute 360 Newsletter! Join the Flute 360 Family's Facebook Private Group!

April 6th 2025Sunday 937!“What you believe about God is the most important thing about you.” A.W. Tozer “What you believe about the Church impacts her influence and your life.” C.W. WeirActs 2:42-47 (NIV) They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 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, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.Here is what I know about a growing church…Church growth is realized spiritual impact.When more people are spiritually impacted, more spiritually impactful people are needed.More spiritual impact creates a need for more organization, more resources and more space. The biggest challenge of a growing Church is maintaining unity of purpose/mission. More people can = a splintering of purpose, which in turn minimizes impact. Or more people can = immeasurably more impact. How do we achieve the latter? Immeasurably More ImpactMaintain Personal HumilityPhilippians 2:1-4 (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, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.Immeasurably More ImpactMaintain Personal HumilityIntegrate Giftings1 Corinthians 12. Don't compete for attention. Find your place to serve. Stick the landing.Immeasurably More ImpactMaintain Personal HumilityIntegrate GiftingsUnity of MissionFresh Starts is about an ever-developing relationship with GodGreat Friends is the community shaping, caring, supporting element of the Body of ChristReal Purpose encapsulates that we were built for spiritual influence in every arena in which we work and live.Casting a Big Sail Join ServTeam. Serving fills a hole in you and it fills a hole in others. Pray. Give. “What you believe about the Church impacts her influence and your life.” Dr. C.W. Weir

Immeasurably More // New Identity Ephesians 4:17-32 (NIV)“So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed. That, however, is not the way of life you learned when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”  1.     In Christ, We Have a New Identity. Ephesians 4:22 (NIV)“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires.” Ephesians 4:24 (NIV)“And to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Colossians 3:9-10 (NIV)“…You have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.” Romans 13:12, 14 (NIV)“…Let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.”  Ephesians 4:1 (NIV)“…I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.”  Matthew 6:8 (ESV)“Do not be like them…” Romans 12:2 (NIV)"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” 2.    In Christ We Should be Honest and Not Lie.  Ephesians 4:25 (NIV)“Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” Christians Are to Have Righteous Anger, Not Unrighteous. Ephesians 4:26-27 (NIV)“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” Psalm 4:4 (ESV)“Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent.” Psalm 119:53 (ESV)“Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked, who forsake your law.” Mark 3:5 (ESV)“And he looked around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart…” Christians Are to Work, Be Generous, and Not Steal. Ephesians 4:28 (NIV)“Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” Christians are to Replace Corrupt Talk with Edifying Talk. Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Ephesians 4:30 (NIV)“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”     Christians are to Replace Bitterness and Rage with Kindness and Forgiveness. Ephesians 4:31-32 (NIV)“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Immeasurably More: The Book of Ephesians: Unified in love Ephesians 4:1-6 (NIV)“As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” Ephesians 4:2 (NIV)“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Ephesians 4:3 (NIV)“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:4-6 (NIV)“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” Seven essentials to hold true to keep unity:-       One Body-       One Spirit-       One Hope-       One Lord-       One Faith-       One Baptism-       One God and Father The Wesleyan ConfessionIn the essentials unity. In the non-essentials liberty. But in all things, charity/love. Philippians 2:1-8 (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, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness, And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death - even death on a cross! The desire of Jesus is that we would walk in love and unity and be his witnesses and his ambassadors can even begin to imagine!

Stretch your faith every day so you can fulfill God's Vision for your lifeThe Thought That "God Will Not Give Us More Than We Can Handle" Is Not True - He will not give us more than HE can handle"We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you… We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same...""Nothing of eternal significance happens apart from prayer."More vision = more prayerthese 3 can be on the screen at the same time:1. Write down one thing God is calling you to believe for (A God-Sized Vision).2. Find one Bible verse to anchor it—before you go to bed tonight.3. Commit to praying that verse over your life every day this week.VERSES:Isaiah 54:2-3 (NIV) - “Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes. For you will spread out to the right and to the left; your descendants will dispossess nations and settle in their desolate cities.Psalm 137:1 (NIV) – “By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion…”Habakkuk 2:2 (NIV) – “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.”1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT) - "…‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.'”Isaiah 54:1 (NIV) - “Sing, barren woman, you who never bore a child;burst into song, shout for joy,you who were never in labor;because more are the children of the desolate womanthan of her who has a husband,” says the Lord.So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10:17Matthew 7:24-25 (NIV) – “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.”Isaiah 55:11 (NIV) – “So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”John 3:6 (NKJV) – “That which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”

Stretch your faith every day so you can fulfill God's Vision for your lifeThe Thought That "God Will Not Give Us More Than We Can Handle" Is Not True - He will not give us more than HE can handle"We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you… We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same...""Nothing of eternal significance happens apart from prayer."More vision = more prayerthese 3 can be on the screen at the same time:1. Write down one thing God is calling you to believe for (A God-Sized Vision).2. Find one Bible verse to anchor it—before you go to bed tonight.3. Commit to praying that verse over your life every day this week.VERSES:Isaiah 54:2-3 (NIV) - “Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes. For you will spread out to the right and to the left; your descendants will dispossess nations and settle in their desolate cities.Psalm 137:1 (NIV) – “By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion…”Habakkuk 2:2 (NIV) – “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.”1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT) - "…‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.'”Isaiah 54:1 (NIV) - “Sing, barren woman, you who never bore a child;burst into song, shout for joy,you who were never in labor;because more are the children of the desolate womanthan of her who has a husband,” says the Lord.So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10:17Matthew 7:24-25 (NIV) – “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.”Isaiah 55:11 (NIV) – “So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”John 3:6 (NKJV) – “That which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”

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? 

Hebrews 12:1-3 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...

Hebrews 12:1-3 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...

SCANDALON  Circumstances do not make you what you are … they reveal what you are! It's our reaction that matters. James 1:19 (Amp) – Understand [this], my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry.   Slow to speak – if we get this right everything falls into place. Our response to scandalon determines our credibility.   So what is a scandalon? It's the Greek word for “offend”, [struikelblok, aanstoot te gee]. It refers to the part of the trap to which the bait is attached The word ‘offend' means: a trap or a snare – stumbling block. Explain a trap with the bait – It's not always visible. We are all more than likely to take the bait many times in our lives. Jesus said in: Luke 17:1 (NKJV) – “It is impossible that no offences should come.” Offence is a tool of the devil to bring people into captivity. If you give him a foothold it becomes a stronghold. Satan is not sitting in an armchair waiting for hell. Revelation 12:12 (NIV) – Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them!  But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you!  He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short.”   Paul warned – 2 Timothy 2:24-26 (note verse 26) 2 Timothy 2:24-26 (LB) – 24 God's people must not be quarrelsome; they must be gentle, patient teachers of those who are wrong. 25 Be humble when you are trying to teach those who are mixed up concerning the truth. For if you talk meekly and courteously to them, they are more likely, with God's help, to turn away from their wrong ideas and believe what is true.  26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from Satan's trap of slavery to sin, which he uses to catch them whenever he likes, and then they can begin doing the will of God. Because of hurts, bitterness, unforgiveness, quarrels, opposition, unresolved differences, carrying grudges. People fall into the trap/snare and are then held by the devil as a prisoner to do his will. The devil wants to destroy relationships in marriages, families and churches. If he succeeds, he achieves a great victory – Why? Unity goes Joy and Peace goes Vision goes – Purpose goes The very essence of our calling losses impact. People take the bait of offence so quickly without thinking of the consequences. LET IT GO! The worst part is most times people are unaware of their captivity. The saddest thing is to see a person so deceived. He believes he is right even though he is not. Pride causes you to view yourself as a victim. People think or say, “I was mistreated and misjudged, therefore I am perfectly justified in my Attitude Behaviour. Because you believe you are Innocent you hold back forgiveness. Notice verse 10 says “Many - not a few, not some” Matthew 24:10-13 (LB) – 10 and many of you shall fall back into sin and betray and hate each other. 11 And many false prophets will appear and lead many astray. 12 Sin will be rampant everywhere and will cool the love of many. 13 But those enduring to the end shall be saved. (Those who do it Gods way) I believe one of the great key ingredients that tests relationships is offence. Can I just say this: “We set ourselves up for offence” when we expect or require certain behaviours – from those whom we have relationships. Listen, the more we expect, the greater the “potential” offence. There are times we must give grace to others. Proverbs 18:19 (LB) – It is harder to win back the friendship of an offended brother than to capture a fortified city. His anger shuts you out like iron bars. Don't forget Jesus warned us that offence will come... Luke 17:1 (NKJV) - “It is impossible that no offences should come.” Did you know there are 4 stages of relationships? It's good to remember that: People judge us by our actions, not our intention, (“Example, Diet”) You can't get thin on your intentions “You can't build a reputation on what you are going to do.”                                                                                 -Henry Ford Relationships don't just happen; you and I must make them happen. Don't give offence and don't take it. 4 Stages Courtship / Fellowship Confrontation / Conflict – “Offence Zone” Growth / Maturity Multiplication #1 Courtship/ Fellowship (The Honeymoon stage) Like the engagement stage, we just except one another and love one another we willing to overlook anything we see in the other person. We put our best foot forward. #2 Confrontation/conflict The grass is greener on the other side because there's more manure there! David said: Psalm 55:12-14 (LB) – 12 It was not an enemy who taunted me—then I could have borne it; I could have hidden and escaped.  13 But it was you, a man like myself, my companion and my friend. 14 What fellowship we had, what wonderful discussions as we walked together to the Temple of the Lord on holy days.   Confrontation requires boldness not arrogance. Humility and peace seeking. Confrontation is an opportunity for forgiveness. The aim: To heal and restore the Relationship. Think about this: Any relationship within the family of God is going to be as good as you want it to be.   Romans 12:14-19 (LB) – 14 If someone mistreats you because you are a Christian, don't curse him; pray that God will bless him. 15 When others are happy, be happy with them. If they are sad, share their sorrow. 16 Work happily together. Don't try to act big. Don't try to get into the good graces of important people, but enjoy the company of ordinary folks. And don't think you know it all!  17 Never pay back evil for evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honest clear through. 18 Don't quarrel with anyone. Be at peace with everyone, just as much as possible.  19 Dear friends, never avenge yourselves. Leave that to God, for he has said that he will repay those who deserve it. Don't take the law into your own hands. You will either grow or go!   #3 Growth / Maturity This is when we do it God's way - not our own way Maturely loving one another in spite of our shortcomings. Proverbs 19:11... it is to one's glory to overlook an offence. Romans 15:1-2 (Amp) – We who are strong [in our convictions and of robust faith] ought to bear with the failings and the frailties and the tender scruples of the weak; [we ought to help carry the doubts and qualms of others] and not to please ourselves.  2 Let each one of us make it a practice to please (make happy) his neighbour for his good and for his true welfare, to edify him [to strengthen him and build him up spiritually].   #4 Multiplication Matthew 13:23 (Amp) –  As for what was sown on good soil, this is he who hears the Word and grasps and comprehends it; he indeed bears fruit and yields in one case a hundred times as much as was sown, in another sixty times as much, and in another thirty.   This is when relationships are now mature enough to move on. You can now encourage and be an example to others. And thereby develop other meaningful relationships. Never before in History as in the 21st Century: Has knowledge increased in the church at the rate it is. But with all this increased knowledge... We seem to experience: More divisions among believers and leaders. More hurts and bitterness and unforgiveness. More couldn't care-less attitudes toward relationships. We know it ALL but we don't live it ALL. 1 Corinthians 8:1 – Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up and encourages one to grow (to his full stature). If we keep the Love of God as our Motivation. In all we do or say, we will not fail. Love Never Fails.   1 Corinthians 13:5,8a (Amp) – 5Love is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride), it is not rude (un)mannerly) and does not act unbecomingly.  Love (God's love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way for it is not self-seeking, its not touchy or fretful or resentful, it takes no account of the evil done to it (it pays no attention to a suffered wrong). 8aLove Never Fails 1 Peter 4:8 (Amp) – Above all things have intense and unfailing love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins (forgives and disregards the offences of others).

This week we have an amazing message from our worship pastor, Janine Smith. She speaks about Who and How we Worship, following Ps Paula's message last week about What is Worship.Who do we worship sounds an obvious question, but is fundamental - we can't move on to how do we worship if we don't know who do we worship. It matters that we know who we worship. But it matters that we actually know who we worship! Without this knowledge, everything is futile. Our God is the God who made heaven and earth, the sky and the sea, all of us. He can heal us of our diseases, and we should be in awe of Him. He is not only a great God but a good Father. Only by having a personal relationship with God and walking closely with him can we be moved to real authentic worship. The more we know of God, the more we will want to worship Him. The more closely we walk with God, the more He reveals himself to us.The first mention of worship in the scriptures occurs in Genesis 22 where Abraham goes to sacrifice his son Isaac in obedience to God. Scripture tells us that Abraham went to worship God before taking the wood for the burnt offering and his son Isaac. Then God spared his son and provided a ram in the thicket. This was a test of Abraham's faith in God, of course at the time he did not know this.So when we ask ‘How do we Worship', the first answer is with obedience. Many of us may need to examine our lives and discover what we need to sacrifice however small in order to worship God. God answered Abraham by telling him his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky.From our hearts, we give an offering, this leads to worship. However, just an offering alone doesn't come from relationship with God, is not an act of your obedience to God and is just an offering which is empty religion. True worship comes from the heart, from a genuine authentic love of God and wanting to respond to who He is. What the offering is, or its size, God sees it as worship. Ps Janine related the story of Mary and the Alabaster jar of perfume (Luke 7:37). Maybe some of us have something to pour out on Jesus' feet?Whatever we offer, no matter how large or small, God sees it as worship. It moves the heart of God. It's not meaningless, it's not futile. Everything we do to magnify God is seen as worship and it moves him.PS Janine gives us three pointers· We worship with our obedience· We worship from our heart· Our worship is a weaponUsing the story of Gideon and the Midianites in Judges 7:18, Janine describes how our worship has a sound, which the enemy cannot abide. When we speak out scripture, it confuses the enemy. The sound of our worship disarms the enemy. Anything and everything that we do to magnify God creates the sound of worship.Janine closes this inspiring message with her favourite worship scripture from Romans 12:1 (NIV) “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship”.

Faith involves *consistency. By Pastor George Lehman   Consistency:  It's the jewel worth wearing; it's the anchor worth securing; it's the thread worth weaving; it's a battle worth winning.”   - Charles Swindoll *consistency = stability, to change you go forward not backwards, steadfast to the same principles Inconsistency – when your words and actions don't align. James 1:18-25 (NIV) – 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.  19 My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 for human anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.  22 Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. *Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does. *Do what it says = Like Putting a password in your computer but never pressing enter, it will never open the programs. True faith is characterized by Knowing Christ. Sowing consistency   True faith starts with knowing Christ as our Saviour. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV) – 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. Our best offer was… Ephesians 2:1-2 (NIV) – As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. You are not born a Christian - you must be born again. Then our true faith involves sowing consistency in our lives. This consistency manifests itself in our talk and our walk – our conversations and our conduct. This is when consistency begins to become a reality. If we are going to be a credible witness of Christ to the world… …we must not only genuinely know Him; we must also be consistent in living in a way that honours Him. Consistent in our talk. The mark of genuine Christianity is having one's conversations consistent with biblical standards and Christian beliefs. James encouraged the church to listen more than we speak. Let your life do the talking.   Proverbs 10:19 (NIV) – When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. Jesus gave us this warning: Matthew 12:36-37 (NIV) – 36 But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. 37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” Genuine Christian living demands that we be cautious in our conversations and that our words are consistent with God's word and character.   James admonishes us: James 1:21 (NIV) – Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Although God chooses us and calls us to Himself, there is something for us to do. We are to take off our old coats of sin and strip away all filth. You can't keep playing in the mud when God has taken you out of it. James was writing to believers like you and me who already know Christ. Knowing and representing Jesus, we need to be consistent in our conversations as well as our conduct. James never held back to make his point. That if we are going to show the world a credible Christ then… …we must know Christ and sow consistency in our lives. Consistent in our walk. This is some of James' most famous and most repeated words. “Be doers of the word and not hearers only.”   Then comes a promise: James 1:25b -“He who is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does”. My desire is that I would rather see people “DO” one sermon than hear a hundred of them. Consistency is in the DOING not just in the HEARING. Like: How did you learn to ride a bike ? By reading a manual Watching others ride Listening to instructions about keeping your balance No! You'll never learn to ride a bike until you get on it and do it over and over. James likened the one who only hears God's word, but does not do it to… “A man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away and immediately forgets what kind of a man he was.” His message is all too clear.  A mirror doesn't lie – it tells the truth. The Bible is like a mirror, when we look into it, we see ourselves as we really are in God's eyes. Not what we say we are or who others might think we are. Have you been looking in the mirror of the Bible lately?  Not just a passing glance. See yourself in: Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV) - 23 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.  24 See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting. James spoke of one who every day opens the Word and looks intently into it… The result is a “Blessed life in what he does”. E.g. We are not blessed in our stewardship and tithing by studying what the bible teaches us, but in doing it. He challenged us to: James 1:21 – Receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. James must have had Jesus' word in mind. Luke 11:28 (NLT) – Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.” When we humbly receive God's word in our hearts, it has a supernatural way of leading us to… “Be doers of the word and not hearers only”. True faith involves not just knowing Christ but also sowing consistency between what we read and hear and our conversations and our conduct Close: 2 Thessalonians 3:13 (Amp) – And as for you, brethren, do not become weary or lose heart in doing right [but continue in well doing without weakening].  

The Offering Of A Consecrated Life Romans 12:1 NIV “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” 1)Present Your Body As A Living Sacrifice 2)The Valuable Thing Given To Honor And Worship God 3)You Are Sacred 4)God Focused, Christ Centered, Spirit Led 5)It's Holy 6)It's Acceptable 7)It's Reasonable 8)It's Offering Time Pastor Dr. Naida M. Parson serves as Senior Pastor at New Antioch Christian Fellowship We are located at 2917 West Washington Las Vegas, NV 89107 Service time 9am Sundays To sow a seed in this ministry you can do so in our several ways Visit us at Newantioch.org (hit the donate tab) Cash app http://cash.app/$NEWACENTRAL Text giving : Text 'NEWACENTRAL' to 77977 Mail in : NACF 2917 West Washington Las Vegas, NV 89107 Social media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NACFCentral Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nacf_lasvegas/ Tik Tok : https://www.tiktok.com/@wearenewantioch

Connecting the Dots // The Second Most Important Thing to Do Matthew 22:34-40 (NIV) The Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: ‘Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?' Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Luke 10:29-37 (NIV)But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbor?' In reply Jesus said: ‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,' he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.' ‘Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?' The expert in the law replied, ‘The one who had mercy on him.'”  Choices we can make when given the opportunity to love others.  1.     Avoid them.  Luke 10:31 (NIV)“A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side.” 2.     We are curious but not concerned.  Luke 10:32 (NLT)  “A Temple assistant (Levite) walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side.”     3.      Treat others the way you would want them to treat you.  Matthew 7:12 (NIV)“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” Luke 10:33 (NLT)“Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion              for him.”  How can you grow in loving those around you?  Be mindful of the needs of others.  Luke 10:33 (NLT)“Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him.” 2.      Put yourself in their shoes.  Luke 10:33 (NIV)“…when he saw him, he took pity on him.” Galatians 6:2 (NIV)“Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” 3.     When you have an opportunity to show kindness, do it.  Luke 10:34-35 (NLT)“Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him. The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I'll pay you the next time I'm here.'” Galatians 6:10 (NIV)“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Proverbs 3:27 (NIV)“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.”

Description: As we step into a new year, Karen and Emily are here to help you start fresh. In this episode, they discuss practical tips for breaking bad habits, finding contentment in your current season, and making space for your own growth as a mom. If you're ready to embrace 2025 with renewed purpose and encouragement, you're in the right place.Episode Recap:2:30 - Jumping into the New Year, what are your New Year's resolutions? 9:02 - My childrens' bad moods put me in a bad mood! What can I do about this? 13:34 - How do I prioritize my spiritual growth with 3 under 3 in my home? 17:15 - How do I break the habit of having my 5 year old share the bed with us? 20:50 - I'm struggling with contentment because I want another child but my husband and I both feel like we can't afford another one, help! Scripture for Reflection:2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV): “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”Questions for Discussion:Does your child's behavior affect your own emotions? Practically speaking, how can you disconnect your emotions from your child's behavior?What strategies or tools have helped you find time for spiritual growth during a busy season of motherhood?Are there any bad habits you've developed when it comes to behavior or situations in your home (like the mom who was bed sharing longer than she wanted to)? What are they and are you ready to work to break them this year?Do you struggle with contentment? Maybe it's the size of your family or your financial situation…how can you practice contentment while trusting God with your family's future?Resources:Register for SOAR 2025 in the BOAW Moms app today [App Store] [Google Play]Grab a copy of Karen's devotional: Moments with God for Moms

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

https://youtu.be/X-LfDHd1IHk?si=sp2Mo2gUE8fVpVTm Behold I have Become A New Creation RECEIVING SOMETHING NEW AND HOW IT WAS BETTER THAN THE OLD We had a wonderful Christmas in 1995. I shall never forget it. It is probably that one Christmas that was better than all the rest… PIVOT TO – WE UNDERSTAND THAT NEW IS BETTER THAN OLD… DID ANYONE GIVE SOMETHING OLD ON CHRISTMAS? DID ANYONE OPEN UP AN OLD PAIR OF SHOES… SHIRT… AN OLD USED UP GIFT CARD? WE UNDERSTAND THAT NEW IS BETTER NOW PIVOT TO GOD… GOD FEELS THE SAME WAY ABOUT NEW… Gen 1:1 and 3. In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth…And God said, Let there be Light and there was Light. Now His easel was ready and Created everything new…and wonderful. Read Gen 1 “What do you notice here?” Does God create an OLD heaven and earth…? He speaks and creates a brand new world… life… purpose… Let's turn to the other creation story… an even better creation story… Therefore if any is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things are passed away, all things are become new. 2 Cor 5:17 Consider the NIV “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” HERE hits your present tense idea… Tie this back to Gen 1… but it is better… this is your story. …are become new. Present tense. Ever seeking newness. GOD CREATES NEW THINGS! GOD DOES NOT CREATE OLD THINGS. Father, we also should walk in the newness of life. Rom 6:4 We should serve in the newness of spirit. Rom 7:6 God is a spirit and those that worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. John 4:24 Life renewal comes with a newness, a freshness of the spirit. We value new things; not old things. Sure, antiques are wonderful, but they create museum pieces. God is always new; He is not ruled by days, hours, years nor even millennia. He wants to make things new for you every day, as well. He gives us a song in the night, in the middle of the trial… that is praise and thanksgiving. He brings a new song in our hearts for every day through the power of the Holy Ghost Every day new mercies are revealed unto us. GOD LOVES NEW… BUT DO WE PERHAPS TREAT HIM LIKE THAT SAME OLD GOD… GIVE HIM THE SAME OLD WORSHIP… SERVE HIM THE SAME OLD WAY… DEAD BORED OLD… PERHAPS WE NEED A RENEWAL… WE NEED A RENEWAL God loves us each and every day and He orchestrates great things for each of us according to our various needs. Yet, we are responsible for the newness in our lives, too. We walk in the newness. We refresh ourselves in the Holy Ghost through reading His Word and praising Him aloud for the things He is doing. Our praise team works very hard to bring exciting newness to our worship songs. They worship Christ before us, helping us to realize new ways to worship our King. We stand in honor to the Savior of our daily lives and we seek new ways to praise him; not because He requires it, but because we need to keep ourselves renewed in the Holy Ghost. God has asked men to praise Him in the dance and in clapping; in spiritual songs and active praise. When was the last time you said “Hallelujah” aloud in the presence of others? It should be frequent, because He is actively lifting our spirits and fulfilling our needs. If you try it: God will underscore it for you. He loves His children to do new things. Perform exploits! You may feel a little like a fish out of water; HE LOVES IT! New Worship The praise team works hard to bring vibrant songs to us, and to demonstrate through their own worship the ways we can offer up praises to the King. We stand in honor of the One who died for us and who is delivering and protecting us daily. He has told us He desires men to lift up holy hands to Him, to clap our hands in praise, to sing and dance before Him, but we may have allowed our spiritual praise to become stagnant, not fresh and almost unseen by others. Celebrate your life with joy and praise and freedom of movement. New Confidence Encourage yourselves in God. Lay down before God and all your losses,

Episode Summary: Our guest on this episode, Kathy Collard Miller, was raised by a very angry mother. The more Kathy tried to suppress her anger, the more it surfaced. Over time, Kathy found herself expressing her anger toward her husband and her daughter, and in her own words, abusing her daughter. Kathy shares her painful wounds in this episode, as well as the story of redemption and the beautiful sacred scars God has given her. Quotables from the episode: Sometimes when we talk about pain or wounds, that pain comes at the hand of another. Sometimes we have no explanation for why it happens (like a medical diagnosis), and sometimes we participate in choices that end up hurting us in the long run. Frequently our greatest areas of ministry come out of our greatest areas of pain. I have a unique story because not only was I wounded, but I wounded others in turn. As a child, I didn't know I had anger building up inside of me until in third grade I hit my best friend in the nose. To this day, I have no recollection what I was so angry about that would prompt me to be aggressive. As my friend ran away sobbing, I thought to myself, “See what happens when you get angry, Kathy? You'd better never get angry again!” Buried anger doesn't go anywhere except making a volcano. Also in the third grade, I was sexually harmed, although I didn't know that that was what it was called, but I thought it was my fault and that I should have prevented it. So the anger toward myself began to build. My mother was orphaned at the age of ten, resulting in her own anger issues toward me that built up inside of me. I didn't know it would be detrimental toward others later, but I've also found it to be something that God has used in amazing ways. I was never taught how to appropriately deal with my anger. As a little girl who tried to be perfect to prevent me from overreacting in anger, I then thought that God must be disappointed in me and that he was expecting me to be angry. Because of the messages I was taught when I was growing up, I pictured God in heaven with his arms crossed saying, “Kathy, when are you going to be perfect so I can love you?” After I became a Christian at 17, I married my husband, Larry. But all the anger that had built up in me started coming out toward him because his promise of being my perfect, Godly, prince charming didn't come true and left me totally disappointed. I interpreted that as there was something wrong with me. I began to believe I wasn't loved or cared for and that came out in bitterness, anger, criticism, never being happy, or never being thankful for what my husband did do. I began to displace my anger toward my husband on to my two-year-old daughter because when she misbehaved, I interpreted that as “I am a horrible mother.” In the end, I began to physically abuse her. I kept praying for an instantaneous deliverance of my anger and when God didn't do that, I believed God had given up on me, and I almost took my life. But God intervened. We have to feel it to heal it, meaning we have to acknowledge the pain. Then we have to choose to engage in the healing process. When we don't choose the path of healing, other things will happen and there will be consequences of that, until one day it comes out at a less opportune time and a less opportune way. Scripture talks about the importance of getting wise counsel. There is no shame in needing help. Seek out a trusted friend, a mentor, a counselor, a coach, or a pastor and get help.  Do not try to handle your pain alone. When people didn't follow through with what they said they were going to do, I concluded that I was worthless. My healing began when I got the courage to share my sin with the women in my Bible study that I led in my neighborhood. They began to hold me accountable, and they prayed for me. I started taking parenting classes and reading books and I read in the Bible Ephesians 4:26, “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” I can be angry, but surrender whatever it is that I think I deserve that's causing my anger. God showed me that I was making my husband an idol because I was expecting him to be responsible for my happiness and contentment. That brought me to the place where I could acknowledge God was the only one who could fully meet my needs. And whether or not my husband ever changed, that was up to God. As God began to have me share my story, other women would come up to tell me that they struggled with the same thing but had never told anyone else. My relationship with my daughter and our family is healed. She has always supported my ministry sharing with others how I treated her. She loves God. I thought I had destroyed her, but God has redeemed us and brought about a sacred scar. There is always hope with the Lord. What the enemy intended for evil, God is using for good. There is healing when we share our story in safe places. We need to get wise, safe counsel so that we don't go back into the hiding. Satan loves secrets and he loves to cause us to hide and isolate. My journey of healing came little by little by little. When we have thoughts, we need to stop and ask, “Is this the truth according to scripture?” If it is, we allow it in. But if it is not, we need to reject it, and recite God's truth. If God can deliver a child abuser on the verge of suicide, God can help you! I was more concerned about Jesus's reputation than my own.  Scripture References: Ephesians 4:26 NIV “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” Genesis 50:20 NIV “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” Revelation 12:11 NIV “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.” 2 Corinthians 10:5 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.” James 5:16 NIV “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”   Recommended Resources:  Anger Management, Jesus Style by Kathy Collard Miller  No More Anger: Hope for An Out of Control Mom by Kathy Collard Miller Sacred Scars: Resting in God's Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson  The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms   Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader's Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety's Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety's Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety's Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor's Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader's Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader's Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win   Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Connect with Kathy Collard Miller: Website / Facebook / Instagram / X   For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety's Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Kathy Collard Miller (www.KathyCollardMiller.com) is the author of over 60 books including women's Bible studies, a memoir, Christian living books and Bible commentaries. She is also a popular women's conference speaker who has shared in over 30 US states and 9 foreign countries. She has been married to Larry for 55 years, is the mother of two and grandmother of two and lives in Boise, Idaho.   Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

/> ### MESSAGE NOTESIn The Way | Complacency | Week 9 | November , 2024Teacher: Tim Mannin/> 1 Peter 1:1 (NIV) To God's elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces…Mark 12:28-31 (Message) “Which is most important of all the commandments?” Jesus said, “The first in importance is, ‘Listen, Israel: The Lord your God is one; so love the Lord God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy."/> 1 Peter 4:1-3 (NIV) Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. 2 As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry./> GOD IS NOT LOOKING FOR PERFECT, HE'S LOOKING FOR PASSIONATEPREPARE YOUR PASSION IN PRIVATE SO GOD CAN USE YOU TO SLAY GIANTS IN PUBLIC./> 1 Peter 4:1-4 (NIV) Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. 2 As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. 3 For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. 4 They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you./> 1 Peter 4:5-7 (NIV) They will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to human standards in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit. 7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray./> 1 Peter 4:8-11 (NIV) Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and power for ever and ever. Amen!/> WE ARE TIRED OF MEDIOCRE VERSIONS OF FAITH, SO WE ARE OVER THE TOP PASSIONATE ABOUT THE PURSUIT OF THE LIVING GOD./> Hebrews 12:1-3 (Message) Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves That will shoot adrenaline into your souls

In this episode you and I discuss the power and importance of Kindness as shared by Paul in Colossians 3:12, NIV:"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."As part of this episode, you'll discover five ways you and I can engage in acts and words of kindness every day.---Host: Stephen Carter - Website: https://StressReliefRadio.com - Email: CarterMethod@gmail.com---Technical information:Recorded and initial edits with Twisted Wave. Additional edits with Audacity (click removal), Hush, Levelator, with final edits and rendering in Hindenburg Pro. Microphone: SE DynaCaster DCM8.---Key words:God, Jesus, Bible, prayer, Saint Paul, 

Episode Summary:  In this episode, author, speaker, and mother, Jodi Howe, shares the painful wounds she has gone through as she has parented a child with gender identity issues. She shares the wisdom that God has granted her in how to remain true to the gospel of Jesus Christ, but still love her daughter.   Quotables from the episode: Often God uses our most painful experiences to minister to others. The ultimate way to glorify the Lord is to turn our pain into power. My testimonies come from experience with anxiety, divorce, and having a transgender child. But He equips, He leads, He walks alongside us, and I'm at the point now where I'm speaking from a healed scar, not a wound. I've gone through years of learning, growing, messing up, and trying to stay close to my faith in Christ and love my daughter through this. The thorn in my flesh came about ten years ago when my daughter told me she doesn't like the skin that she is in and wants to transition into a male. I firmly believe that God does not mistakes and that the gender you are born in is the gender you are to live in. But that doesn't mean that our children and the culture they live in don't feel lost in who they are. In the course of a decade, not much has changed in her decision, but what has changed is how I approach it as a mom who is adamantly and passionately in love with Jesus Christ and is adamantly and passionately in love with my child. The Lord has shown me that I need to be open to what an agape love looks like, not just the love a mother to a child, but His love as spelled out in First Corinthians. God has shown me such incredible growth in this process. Gender identity issues is not being born in the wrong skin. This is actual societal pressure, infused by the internet, put upon lonely hearts and minds that are struggling just to get by at the times when they are the most vulnerable and the affirmations by doctors, therapists, teachers and educators who say if you want to be a duck, and act like a duck, we're going to help you be a duck. Satan, through society, is really putting a stronghold on those vulnerabilities. But the good news is, God is prevailing through it as I knew He would, in my life, in my family's life, and in my child's life. You grow in Christ as fast as you are intentional about growing. I have been intentional from the day I accepted Jesus into my heart that I was going to build a life and a foundation on who He is, on His foundation. I am going to build my life around Him. These children are told that if your parents won't let you be who you want to be, you need to threaten suicide or even attempt it so they will get on your bandwagon of transitional change in your body. 90% of transgender men and women are coming from a traumatic circumstance. It's crucial to thoroughly vet the mental health therapists you go to for therapy. We don't have agree or like the choices of our children. But when God says “love the Lord with all your strength, heart and soul, and love thy neighbor,” when we appreciate how much he loved us to send Jesus to die for our sins, we don't get to love haphazardly—it is a full love of acceptance. What it has shown me is that I can love her alongside the struggles and the choices she has made. It has softened my heart to not feel as much shame, to not feel as much resentment, to not worry what people think of me…when I go to bed at night, I only care what God thinks of me. I believe that our omniscient God is going to be able to weave this into something beautiful. I know the Lord would want me to have a relationship with my child no matter what. I adore my child, and she is going to see how I, her mother who loves the Lord, is going to honor her. So there is going to be a lot of pressure on me to keep my Godly heart in check, and I'm willing to do it for the sake of my child, and most importantly, to glorify the Lord. You can stay a beautiful believer in Jesus Christ, believe that the gospels are real, and you can still love your LBGT family member but you can't do it without God. God will show you. He will equip you, He will provide for you, and He will comfort your heart when it's at the lowest of lows. He will speak to you, and He will give you the words to say that will speak love. We need to go to God and ask Him how to navigate this world. The only hill to die on is the one that Jesus tells me to die on, and so far, He has told me to keep going. Are we loving God's people to life? Jesus keeps the door open, and I think He's asking us to do the same thing. We often can't help what happens to us, but we can take it to the Lord and we can trust that He's weaving it and working it out for good. I'm trying very hard that regardless of what comes before me, before I react I pray; before I speak I pray. I take it to the Lord. Stop leaning on the world. It's going to disappoint you. It's going to hurt you. Take it to the Lord first and ask Him how he wants you to handle the situation with integrity as a friend, as a coworker, as a parent, as a child…we need to do what God tells us to do, but we have to be willing to listen first.  Wisdom from the Lord will never steer us wrong. That doesn't mean it will always be comfortable, but it will not mislead.  God doesn't care as much about our comfort as he cares about our character. When you walk with Christ, His favor is upon you. And when we walk in His favor, that makes us more attractive to those around us. Scripture References: Matthew 13:6 NIV “But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root.” Romans 12:1-2 NIV “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. But do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.   Recommended Resources:  The Air That I Breathe: Hope and Healing from Anxiety (22 Day and Night Devotions) by Jodi Howe Sacred Scars: Resting in God's Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson  The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms   Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader's Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety's Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety's Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety's Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor's Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader's Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader's Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win   Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Connect with Jodi Howe: Website For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety's Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Jodi Howe is an engaging stage performer, author, and award-winning podcaster known for her heartfelt messages and magnetic energy. She hosts "The Air That I Breathe," podcast and released a book of the same name last year, both inspired by her passion for sharing messages of hope through the gospel of Jesus. Based in Cary, North Carolina, Jodi inspires through her writing, music, and dedication to her family.   Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

When your kids are little, the challenges of day-to-day parenting often pit one spouse against another. Today Karen and Emily are answering questions from weary moms. They discuss practical ways you can connect with your spouse, strategies for handling the stress that comes with parenting young children, and remind us of the importance of prioritizing our husband's needs during this season of life. Episode Recap:4:50 BIG announcement coming later this month - get the app to be the first to know 10:45 How do we find time to connect as spouses with 3 little kids at home? 15:05: Help! My 3 yr old twins are pitting us against one another! 17:14 Our marriage is struggling! We need help. 22:20 Ask your spouse: what is one way I can love you better this month? 25:20 I want to move back to where my family lives. What do you think we should do?Scripture for Reflection:Mark 10:9 (NIV): “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”Questions for Discussion:How do you currently prioritize connection with your spouse while raising young children? What practical strategies have worked for you, and where do you feel there's room for improvement?How do you and your spouse handle conflict when your children (especially young ones) try to pit you against one another? Do you feel like you have a united front, or is this something you struggle with?What's one way you could better support your husband's needs during this busy season of life? Have you asked him how you can show love to him in the coming weeks?When making major family decisions, such as moving or changing jobs, how do you and your spouse communicate and weigh each other's opinions? What steps do you take to ensure that both of your voices are heard?Resources:Download the BOAW Moms app for FREE [App Store] [Google Play]Watch the Parenting Together curriculum in the app! [App Store] [Google Play]

Matthew 28:16-19 NIV 16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”THE BODYMatthew 28:19 NIV   Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,Ephesians 3:4-6 NIV 4 In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God's holy apostles and prophets. 6 This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.THE BODYTHE BLESSINGGalatians 3:5-9 NIV 5 Does he who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law, or by hearing with faith— 6 just as Abraham “believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”? 7 Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham. 8 And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, “In you shall all the nations be blessed.” 9 So then, those who are of faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.Galatians 3:26-29 NIV 26 So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.THE BODYTHE BLESSINGTHE BEAUTYI Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭12‬-‭14‬ NIV Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.Romans 12:4-5;9-10;15-16 NIV4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another.

In the final episode of our Radical Discipleship series, we explore the transformative practice of encountering and embodying the Trinity. Stasi shares how intimately knowing God—through creation, our senses, and stillness—allows us to rest in His goodness and be saturated by His love. This awareness leads to trust, worship, and ultimately embodying Christ. Through the Holy Spirit, we are invited to be filled with Jesus and live out His love. Stasi closes with a powerful time of prayer to help us encounter our King. Friends, we hope this series has inspired you to discover the many ways we can truly know, worship, love, and live intimately with God and partner with him, so that he spills over into every aspect of our lives.…..SHOW NOTES:…..VERSES: Psalm 46:10 (NIV) — He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”John 13:35 (NIV) — By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV) — And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate[a] the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.Matthew 7:24–27 (NIV) — “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.”…..RESOURCES:Part 1 – Radical Discipleship: Prayer and Scripture  https://wahe.art/3XD0hNwPart 2 – Radical Discipleship: Worship and Fasting  https://wahe.art/3TBVOs2ABLAZE: Stasi's new 6-week online bible study. Coming January 2025. More information coming soon at WildatHeart.orgBLAINE ELDREDGE: BlaineEldredge.comSubstack: The Paradise King  https://wahe.art/4d6VkB5Post shared from Apocalypse People – I: Embodied Faith  https://wahe.art/4ed5i4Y“We do not speak great things but we live them.”BOOKS:The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives by Dallas Willard  https://amzn.to/3XGFjgMExperiencing the Depth of Jesus Christ by Madame Jeanne Guyon  https://amzn.to/3ZnXQ2zQUOTES:Bishop Kallistos Ware from The Orthodox Way (NY: SVS, 2002), pp.11-23  https://amzn.to/3XokchJ“... . Here then are the two least misleading ways of speaking about the God who surpasses our understanding. He is personal. And he is love. And these are basically two ways of saying the same thing. Our way of entry into the mystery of God is through personal love..”Madame Jeanne Guyon from Experiencing the Depth of Jesus Christ  https://amzn.to/3ZnXQ2z“When you are quiet before God, simply allow yourself time to enjoy his presence and be filled full in your spirit. Hearing is a passive rather than active procedure. Rest, rest, rest in God's love. Simply listen and be attentive to God. These passive actions will permit God to communicate his love to you. When your spirit is centered on God, all activities he initiates will be full of peace and natural and so spontaneous that it will appear to you that there has hardly been any activity at all.”Eric Gilmour from Opening the Divine Treasure Chest: Your Pathway into God's Presence   https://amzn.to/3Tnm7SI“Quietness in the absence of external noise. Stillness is the absence of internal noise.”John Mark Comer from Practicing the Way – Vision Series Episode 1   https://wahe.art/4dZEHZj“If we are going to be disciples, we have to orient our lives around three goals. (1) Be with Jesus (2) become like Jesus, and (3) Do as Jesus did.”  Background Music: Surrendering to the Presence from the album Soaking in His Presence, by William Augusto  https://spoti.fi/3XK9ZNY…..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

It is OKAY to not be OKAY. “We were never designed for the sedentary, indoor, socially isolated, fast-food laden, sleep deprived, frenzied pace of modern life.”—Stephen Ilardi-The Depression Cure Lamentations 3:17-20 NIV I have been deprived of peace; I have forgotten what prosperity is.   So I say, “My splendor is gone and all that I had hoped from the Lord.”   I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall.   I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. 2 Corinthians 1:8 NIV We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. I Kings 19:1-4 NLT When Ahab got home, he told Jezebel everything Elijah had done, including the way he had killed all the prophets of Baal.   So Jezebel sent this message to Elijah: “May the gods strike me and even kill me if by this time tomorrow I have not killed you just as you killed them.”   Elijah was afraid and fled for his life. He went to Beersheba, a town in Judah, and he left his servant there. Then he went on alone into the wilderness, traveling all day. He sat down under a solitary broom tree and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors who have already died.” FAULTY THINKING Philippians 4:8-9 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. ISOLATION Ecclesiastes 4:12 A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. Led by FEELINGS John 8:32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” COMPARISON Galatians 1:10 Obviously, I'm not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ's servant. Kings 19:5-9 Then he lay down and slept under the broom tree. But as he was sleeping, an angel touched him and told him, “Get up and eat!” He looked around and there beside his head was some bread baked on hot stones and a jar of water! So he ate and drank and lay down again.   Then the angel of the Lord came again and touched him and said, “Get up and eat some more, or the journey ahead will be too much for you.” So he got up and ate and drank, and the food gave him enough strength to travel forty days and forty nights to Mount Sinai, the mountain of God.   There he came to a cave, where he spent the night. But the Lord said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” Some practical things for us to learn today about God is saying: 1. Get healthy PHYSICALLY. 2. Pour my HEART out to God. Matthew 11:28-29 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 3. Experience the POWER and PRESENCE of God. Psalm 46:10a “Be still, and know that I am God! 4. Let God give me a NEW PURPOSE and DIRECTION for my life. 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. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

I'm so glad you've joined me at the intersection of faith and true crime here at The Unlovely Truth. Does your church or ministry struggle with physical, emotional, or spiritual safety issues? I'm your host, church safety advocate Lori Morrison and I'm so glad you've joined me today. Our churches need to be the safest places in our communities, so our mission on this podcast is to find actionable steps to improve every aspect of safety in our houses of worship and beyond. We will investigate The Unlovley Truth about real crime news stories happening in real churches. I've got new cases to explore today, so let's dive right in.    Highlights from this episode include:   Calling out bullying in disguise Are you managing your volunteers well enough? Leadership team does the right thing Phillipians 2:1-4 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, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.   Rather than meaning we all have to think alike the way a high-control leader might want his followers to do, we are to simply act like Jesus. Well, simple in theory, oh-so-hard in practice. It takes a very intentional mindset that says we are willing to be uncomfortable if that makes it better for someone else.    It's hard to speak out when there may be physical, emotional, or spiritual safety issues in our church. But things won't get better until we are willing to get uncomfortable and talk about them, do something about them. Are you ready to do that?   Let me know what you think of this episode! Send me an email a lori@theunlovelytruth.com or message me on social media. I love it when people are willing to have hard, but impactful conversations that strengthen physical, emotional, and spiritual safety at the intersection of faith and true crime.   Visit my website to access more episodes. If you would like to contact me about booking me as a speaker, or ask about my consulting services, please email me at lori@theunlovelytruth.com.    Ways you can support the work of The Unlovely Truth:   Share the episode   Buy Me a Coffee   Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn    Check out my Amazon Author Page to find resources on personal safety, and safety training for churches.    Read more about today's cases:   Church discipline, or bullying?   Really, really bad volunteer   Church network...or cult?  

Series: Chaos to CovenantTitle: “What's the matter with us?"Scripture: Genesis 3:1-7; Matthew 4:1-10Bottom line: When we forget or doubt that God is good and his word is trustworthy, we will give in to temptation and sin against our Creator.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER OUTLINESDISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDINTRODUCTION[Holding an apple while I talk]In his book The Genesis Factor, David Helms says that Genesis answers many of life's questions. He says or implies that Genesis 3 deals with at least 3 questions:Is God really good? If God is good, why are there boundaries? (God's character)Can you trust God's word no matter what? (The Bible)What's the matter with us? (Humanity)Who do you trust more than anyone in the world?Now, imagine that that person is now also the most powerful person in America.They can do anything they want to. They are powerful and you trust them.Now, imagine you're with them and they say to you, "I have a gift for you." They hand you what looks like a credit card. They tell you this card gives you unlimited access to every source of food in America. Restaurants, grocery stores, food trucks, farms...you name it...for free. This card also gives you access to any and every university, professor, expert, library or bookstore in America. Any source of wisdom you seek you have unlimited access to for free. Pretty amazing, huh?They add that there's also a restaurant where you can find food that increases your health and extends your life. This super-restaurant is always open and you have unlimited access to it as well.Now, they have one restriction. You cannot eat at the only 5 Star restaurant in town. The one in the middle of town. Let's say you drive by it every day too. This restaurant also has a supercomputer with the best AI on the planet. It has access to all knowledge in our world--good and evil. But if you order from there, if you partake from there, you will die. So you enjoy the unlimited access you have to food, knowledge and wisdom all over town. But one day you notice the 5 Star restaurant you're restricted from eating at. You notice that the parking lot is full, though. You find yourself walking over. You can see people enjoying their food but not dying. So you walk in and the host welcomes you in. You ask why aren't people dying from the food? He answers, "Oh that's just to keep you from gaining the same power that your friend now has. You won't die if you eat this food or partake of this AI bar." Forgetting what your trusted friend or family said, you find the host's words more believable the more he talks. You smell the food and see the expressions on everyone's faces. They all look like they're enjoying everything. You look around to see who's looking and then you go in and get a plate...and you eat. What just happened?You gave in to the temptation to ignore the one restriction you had from your most trusted person who gave you unlimited access to everything else. And you died. CONTEXTAdam and Eve have been created and married. They are in a blissful garden of existence where they have all that they need and their Creator, the Lord God, spends time walking and talking with them everyday. They have no relational distress with God or each other or creation. They are experiencing perfect peace and joy. And yet they find themselves capable of being tempted to forget that God is good and doubt his trustworthiness.SERMON OUTLINE (GENESIS 3:1-24) by H. WillmingtonThis section describes the corruption of all things. In other words, it answers the question:What's the matter with us?I. THE TRANSGRESSION OF ADAM (3:1-24)A. Adam's disobedience (3:1-6)1. The treachery (3:1-5)a. Satan begins by casting doubt on God's Word (3:1-3): "Did God really say you must not eat any of the fruit in the garden?"b. Satan concludes by denying God's Word (3:4-5): "'You won't die!' The serpent hissed...'You will become just like God, knowing everything, both good and evil.'"2. The tragedy (3:6): Both Eve and Adam disobey God and eat of the forbidden tree.B. Adam's deceit (3:7-8): He attempts to cover his nakedness by making clothes from fig leaves. He then hides among the trees.C. Adam's despair (3:9-11): He acknowledges his fear and nakedness before God.D. Adam's defense (3:12-19): Adam blames Eve, but Eve blames the serpent.E. Adam's discipline (3:14-19): God sets up his divine court in Eden and imposes the following sentences:1. Upon the serpent (3:14-15): to be the most cursed of all creatures and to crawl on its belly, eating dust. Also, his head will be crushed by the offspring of the woman.2. Upon the woman (3:16): to suffer pain in childbirth and to be ruled by her husband.3. Upon the man (3:17-19): to endure wearisome labor as he grows food from unproductive soil and to eventually die physically.4. Upon nature (3:18): to be infested with thorns and this-tles.F. Adam's deliverance (3:15, 20-21)1. The promise (3:15): Someday a Savior will defeat Satan, the serpent!2. The provision (3:20-21): After Adam names his wife Eve, God clothes both of them with animal skins.CONCLUSIONBottom line: When we forget or doubt that God is good and his word is trustworthy, we will give in to temptation and sin against our Creator.Read Matthew 4:1-10 and see how Jesus resisted temptation. Three times he is tempted and three times he responds with scripture. He remembers that God's word is true and authoritative and that the Father is good. We must immerse ourselves in scripture with people and on our own getting a good grip on the Bible so that we'll not sin against God.Ps 119:11 "I've hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." -DavidSinning against God leads to death.When we die spiritually, it's because we have been infected. We've been infected by a spiritual virus that can only be cured by a blood transfusion that uses Christ's shed blood at the cross. This blood coupled with our belief that it saves is what saves us from sin and death, shame and guilt, and hell itself."But God demonstrates his love in this, that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." -Romans 5:8There's hope even in Genesis 3“And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.””‭‭Genesis‬ ‭3‬:‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:InvitationWhat is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.PrayNOTES"Who are we really? Genesis 2 replies:We are divine dust.We are to live under divine rule.We are divinely created for relationship."- David Helms, p. 59"What Is God's Mission?What is God's mission in the world? If we, as Christians, are supposed to love God and obey him, it would certainly help if we knew what he was up to. Fortunately, God has given us the Bible, a book that tells us exactly what he is up to!If we are going to understand God's mission, the first thing we have to understand is that the Bible is not primarily a storehouse of random facts about God or Israel or the world.Nor is it primarily a collection of rules. Instead, it is primarily a fascinating and powerful story about God. This story is told in four acts:1. Creation: The first act is Creation. "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth" (Gen. 1:1).God created the world and everything in it, and he called it "very good" (1:31). God loved and enjoyed what he had created!At the pinnacle of his creation are a man and woman. They were different from the rest of his creation because he created them in his image and likeness(1:26-28). Unlike the animals, they could be entrusted with managing the world God created (1:28), making families (1:28), and working to enhance the garden(2:15). Also, unlike the animals, they were moral and spiritual beings who were instructed not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. A good way to summarize the uniqueness of human beings is to say that they are spiritual, moral, social, and cultural beings who were supposed to use the totality of their lives to please God. And at the time of creation, they did please God. In fact, everything in the garden was just the way it was supposed to be.Adam and Eve had a right relationship with God, with each other, and with the rest of the world.2. The Fall: The second act is the Fall. Just after God created the world, the Bible's story takes a dark turn.Adam and Eve decided to rebel against their Creator (3:1-7). Instead of loving him supremely and obeying him completely, they disobeyed him and sought to take his place on the throne of the world and the throne of their lives. They believed the lie of Satan that they could become gods. In response to their sin, God cast them out from the garden of Eden.Being cast out from the garden of Eden represented the fact that things were no longer the way they were supposed to be. Adam and Eve no longer had a right relationship with God, with each other, or with God's world. Each of us, just like Adam and Eve, has sinned against God. Each of us, like Adam and Eve, experiences broken relationships with God, with oth-ers, and with the world around us. Our lives are characterized not only by God's goodness but by sin and its consequences. Even as we experience the beauty and goodness of life in God's creation, we also experience the ugliness and badness of sin and its consequences.3. Redemption: The third act is Redemption. Immediately after Adam and Eve sinned, God promised to send a Redeemer, a Savior, to save them from their sins (3:15).This promise represents our first "peek" at the gospel.Throughout the Bible, God continues to reveal more and more about who this Redeemer would be until, finally, in the Gospels, we learn that he is Jesus!Jesus—fully God in all of who he is-came to earth and took on full humanity. He was fully man and fully God. He lived a perfect life, but was crucified at the hands of sinful humans. When he died on the cross, was buried, and rose again, he was making atonement for our sins and providing salvation for the world. On the cross, he took the guilt for our sins upon his shoulders so that he could suffer the condemnation that we should suffer. When he rose from the dead, he rose as a victor, having paid fully for our sins and secured the future salvation of the world." -Bruce Ashford, I Am Going, pp. 4-5From Wilmington's Bible Handbook:It's primeval history (universal world history) of the world (universe) made up of 5 stories with the same structure. (1-11)The FallCainSons of God marrying daughters of manThe FloodTower of BabelThey all follow this 4-fold pattern:Sin: the sin is describedSpeech: There is a speech by God announcing the penalty for the sinGrace: God brings grace to the situation to ease the misery due to sinPunishment: God punishes the sinPatriarchal history (12-50) or the history of Israel's founding fathers. It continues to reveal the many graces of God based on the gracious promise God made to and through Abraham in Genesis 12:3.Truths to noteGod existed and exists eternallyGod exists in plural unity as the Holy TrinityGod was in the beginningGod was before anything existed in our universe and the universe itselfGod created everything that exists in the universe and the universe itselfGod creates something from nothing Latin ex nihiloAn atheist scientist came to God and said, “We've figured out how to make a man without you.” God said, “OK, let me see you do it.” So the atheist bent down to the ground and scooped up a handful. But God stopped him and said, “Oh, no you don't. Get your own dirt!”God creates with words. He spoke creation into existence. His words still have power.God creates purposefully for his glory and our good.God starts with light to display his creation and provide an essential ingredient for life.God only creates things that are good. Together it was all very good and will be again.God is a God of order and moves from chaos to order. Elohim (gods) intensifies God's divine majesty, when used as a noun. When used as a verb, it's singular for there is only one true God.God created all things. "Heavens and earth"God created an "open" universe, not a "closed" one where he never interactsNotes from Bible Project Videos1-11 God and the world12:3 Hinge verse12-50 God and Abraham's family"Blessing" is a key word hereChoice: Tree of knowledge of good and evilTrust God's definition of good and evil, orSeize autonomy and define good and evil for themselves?Serpent (against God) tells a different story. He lies when he tells them that if they eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil that they will be like God. Because they already are like God (made in his image).The PatternSee D. J. A. Clines, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, No. 38 (1976), pp. 487, 488. Clines explains that Gerhard Von Rad initially observed a pattern of sin, mitigation, and punishment. Then Claus Westermann discerned another element, that of divine speech. Though he did not include it in the pattern, Clines does. Thus the following chart:I. II. III. IV. SINSPEECHGRACEPUNISHMENTFALL3:63:14-193:213:22-24CAIN4:84:10-124:154:16SONS OF GOD6:26:36:8, 18ff7:6-24FLOOD6:5, 11f6:7, 13-216:8, 18ff11:8BABEL11:411:6f10:1-3211:8Preach the Word, Genesis, Kent Hughes, chapter 1, note 3, p. 625QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWho is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I get to do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Let's ask some summary sermon questions:Q. What do I want them to know?A. Q. Why do I want them to know it?A. Q. What do I want them to do about it?A. Q. Why do I want them to do it?A. Q. How can they begin to do this?A. OUTLINESOUTLINE (GENESIS 3:1-24) by H. WillmingtonThis section describes the corruption of all things.I. THE TRANSGRESSION OF ADAM (3:1-24)A. Adam's disobedience (3:1-6)1. The treachery (3:1-5)a. Satan begins by casting doubt on God's Word (3:1-3): "Did God really say you must not eat any of the fruit in the garden?"b. Satan concludes by denying God's Word (3:4-5): "'You won't die!' The serpent hissed...'You will become just like God, knowing everything, both good and evil.'"2. The tragedy (3:6): Both Eve and Adam disobey God and eat of the forbidden tree.B. Adam's deceit (3:7-8): He attempts to cover his nakedness by making clothes from fig leaves. He then hides among the trees.C. Adam's despair (3:9-11): He acknowledges his fear and nakedness before God.D. Adam's defense (3:12-19): Adam blames Eve, but Eve blames the serpent.E. Adam's discipline (3:14-19): God sets up his divine court in Eden and imposes the following sentences:1. Upon the serpent (3:14-15): to be the most cursed of all creatures and to crawl on its belly, eating dust. Also, his head will be crushed by the offspring of the woman.2. Upon the woman (3:16): to suffer pain in childbirth and to be ruled by her husband.3. Upon the man (3:17-19): to endure wearisome labor as he grows food from unproductive soil and to eventually die physically.4. Upon nature (3:18): to be infested with thorns and this-tles.F. Adam's deliverance (3:15, 20-21)1. The promise (3:15): Someday a Savior will defeat Satan, the serpent!2. The provision (3:20-21): After Adam names his wife Eve, God clothes both of them with animal skins.DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Parables // Jesus Wants To Do A New Thing In Your Life  Luke 5:27-39 (NIV)“Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. ‘Follow me,' Jesus said to him, and Levi got up, left everything and followed him.Then Levi held a great banquet for Jesus at his house, and a large crowd of tax collectors and others were eating with them. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law who belonged to their sect complained to his disciples, ‘Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?'Jesus answered them, ‘It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.'They 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.'Jesus answered, ‘Can you make the friends of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; in those days they will fast.'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. 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. 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.'”     1.     Jesus came to give you a spirit of joy not burdensome sorrow. Psalm 34:8 (NIV)“Taste and see that the Lord is good;”Isaiah 61:3 (NIV)“to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” 2.     Jesus came to do something brand new in your life. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” 3.     Resisting what Jesus is doing will cause your life to get messy.Hebrews 3:7-9 (NIV)“So, as the Holy Spirit says: ‘Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the desert, where your fathers tested and tried me and for forty years saw what I did.'”

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

In today's episode of Captivated, Stasi shares from a Women at the Well teaching about cultivating a deep relationship with God through consistent prayer and worship, so that in moments of need, our faith is strengthened by this connection with him. By aligning our thoughts with Christ and surrendering to his process, he transforms us from the inside out into Christ's likeness. Stasi encourages us to lay our lives before God daily, arranging our days so we experience deep contentment, joy, and confidence in his faithful love.…..SHOW NOTES:…..VERSES: 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NLT) — 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.Genesis 1:28 (NIV) — God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”Proverbs 23:7 (KJV) —  For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.Matthew 17:1-7 (NLT) — (here, verses 1–3) After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus.Romans 12:1-2 (NIV) — Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God – this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.Romans 12:1-2 (The Message) — …Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.Ephesians 4:23 (NIV) — Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.Ephesians 4:24 (NIV) — Put on your new nature, created to be like God – truly righteous and holy.Ephesians 5:1 (NIV) — Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.Ephesians 5:15 (NIV) — So be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise.Ezekiel 37: Valley of the Dry Bones story…..RESOURCES:Women at the Well: https://wahe.art/3ywqKT3Women at the Well (this teaching): https://wahe.art/3WDSgpEEpic: The Larger Story | https://wahe.art/3yjOAl5Song: Come Lord Jesus (Live) by Jeremy RiddleWorship Playlist | Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3XFQ5nJ…..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

Episode Summary:  As part of our Sacred Scar Story Series, my guest, Julie McLaughlin, opens up about her deeply personal journey through teenage pregnancy and the heart-wrenching decision to give her baby up for adoption. For over 40 years, Julie and her husband kept this secret hidden, carrying the heavy burden of shame that often follows birth moms in similar situations. Julie shares how God transformed her painful wounds into sacred scars, bringing healing and redemption when her son found them decades later. Tune in to hear Julie's powerful story of overcoming the stigma of unplanned pregnancy and discovering the freedom that comes from sharing her story.   Quotables from the episode: Areas that God puts us in to minister to others often comes out of our areas of our painful wounds. I was shamed, embarrassed, and shocked when I became pregnant by my then-boyfriend (now-husband). I wasn't ready to be a mom, and I wasn't ready to get married, and with a lot of help by my parish-priest and others, I made the difficult decision to put my baby up for adoption. The stigma of that unplanned pregnancy has been with me my entire life. I kept that secret from everyone for over 40 years. I experienced so much shame attached to my actions. Shame makes you feel like you have fallen off the pedestal of life. I disappointed my parents (I was the oldest of five, and my younger brothers didn't even know about it), and I disappointed myself.  There was so much shame. I didn't feel like I was the good Catholic girl I thought I was supposed to be. I married my baby's father, and we kept the secret for forty years from most of the people in our lives, including our two daughters we had. We didn't tell that I had had a son and had put him up for adoption. At the time that happened, only a few people knew. I fabricated a story and that's what people believed. Although I lived a very full and fulfilling life, there were many things I shied away from (like running for public office) because I didn't want my story to be found out. Even when other people talked about teenage pregnancy or adoption, I never talked about it. Our painful wounds often tempt us to keep our secrets hidden. Shame prompts fear (fear that we are going to be found out, fear of ridicule, fear that we are going to be rejected or abandoned, fear that people will share our story and it won't be within our control…). Out of fear, we often then isolate because we don't want anyone to find out. I probably experienced undiagnosed Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, I suffered with medical problems through the years, I tried counseling but found out that the counselor's husband worked with my husband so I feared my story wouldn't be kept confidential, so I quit going. When you keep your secrets quiet, I believe it will come out manifesting in different ways emotionally, physically, etc. About six years ago, after I placed my son in an entirely private adoption, through Facebook and an ancestry service, my son found us (we had not been looking for him). He found us and told us that he had had a great life, and that he appreciated the decision we had made, and ironically, he and his wife adopted a child (from the same agency I had used) when they were initially unable to have a baby, but then went on to have two more biological children. When my son validated the painful decision we made decades before, not only healed the wound, but filled a hole in my heart all those years. Because the story was out after my son found us, we started sharing our story, and we were received in such a loving way that was nothing like I had feared all those years ago. What we received instead was love and joy and peace. So I was able to write a book about our story, shared my story with countless people and I've had the incredible opportunity to meet other birth moms with the same story, adoptive parents, adoptive kids, which has helped to heal me and my husband, and now there's no longer a secret we can talk about it openly. So often, when we are vulnerable enough to share our story with others, the outcome is rarely as bad as the enemy convinces us it will be. God wants to redeem and restore us, but He is waiting for us to come out of the darkness to share our pain with Him in the light of His love. The most important redemption came through our daughters, who for over 30 years had no knowledge of having an older brother, loved us and accepted us and told us they were proud of us when we told them the news. They lovingly and unselfishly opened their hearts to him and his family. God's hand has been in this since our son was conceived. A friend told me that we had given a gift to another family years ago, and God has given it back to us to see his redemptive work and to see the joy. I'm not ashamed anymore! Healing came with validation. We all need some sort of validation. You may be in a situation where no one is validating you. But Jesus has already validated you. He died to pay the price, so He has already validated you. Guilt, shame and regret do not come from your heavenly father. Scripture says there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. So accept his validation of you. There is enough love to go around if we will open our hearts. Keeping a secret all those years was VERY very hard. Being able to talk about it openly has been freeing physically, emotionally, and mentally. Find someone to trust with whom you can talk it out. There are resources out there for women with an unplanned pregnancy. For me, that adoption decision was nothing short of a true blessing. I had given it over to God, but it does feel good to openly and honestly talk about it from a real human perspective. We all have a story, and someone out there needs to hear our story. After sharing our story with our daughters, one of them said, “Mom, you actually seem like a new you!” That shocked me. I think she was picking up on freedom.   Scripture References: Romans 3:10 NIV “There is no one righteous, not even one.” Romans 8:1 NIV “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”   Recommended Resources:  The Gift of Time: A Birth Mother's Memoir by Julie McLaughlin Sacred Scars: Resting in God's Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson  The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms   Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader's Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety's Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety's Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety's Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor's Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader's Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader's Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win   Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Connect with Julie McLaughlin: Facebook For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety's Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Julie McLaughlin is a retired paralegal and legal secretary.  She won numerous awards during her career in the legal field, and she is very active in her church. “The Gift of Time: A Birth Mother's Memoir” is Julie's first book about her adoption journey.  She and her husband, Mike, have been married for 43 years.   Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

What happens when we die? It's a question as old as time—and the answer's right in the Bible. And today, pastor and author Max Lucado addresses this spiritual question and helps ease any fears we have relating to the afterlife. Notes: What happens when we die? “In slavery by their fear of death.”Hebrews 2:15 NIV “We want you to be quite certain, brothers, about those who have died, to make sure that you do not grieve about them, like the other people who have no hope.”1 Thessalonians 4:13 TJB Where do we go when we die? “Remember me when You come into Your Kingdom.”Luke 23:42 NCV “I tell you the truth, today, you will be with Me in paradise.”Luke 23:43 NCV “I was caught up to the third heaven fourteen years ago. Whether I was in my body or out of my body, I don't know—only God knows. Yes, only God knows whether I was in my body or outside my body. But I do know that I was caught up to paradise and heard things so astounding that they cannot be expressed in words, things no human is allowed to tell.”2 Corinthians 12:2–4 NLT “I tell you the truth, today, you will be with Me in paradise.”Luke 23:43 NCV “We … would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”2 Corinthians 5:8 NIV “…Heaven open and the Son of Man standing at God's right side.”Acts 7:56 NCV “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”Acts 7:59 NCV “Thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly [being joined by] the spirits of the righteous made perfect.”Hebrews 12:22–23 NIV “Carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom.”Luke 16:22 NKJV “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgements and how inscrutable His ways!”Romans 11:33 ESV “When Christ appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.”1 John 3:2 NIV “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”Hebrews 12:1 NLT “Since we are surrounded … let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”Hebrews 12:1 NLT --- 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/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when we die? It's a question as old as time—and the answer's right in the Bible. And today, pastor and author Max Lucado addresses this spiritual question and helps ease any fears we have relating to the afterlife. Notes: What happens when we die? “In slavery by their fear of death.”Hebrews 2:15 NIV “We want you to be quite certain, brothers, about those who have died, to make sure that you do not grieve about them, like the other people who have no hope.”1 Thessalonians 4:13 TJB Where do we go when we die? “Remember me when You come into Your Kingdom.”Luke 23:42 NCV “I tell you the truth, today, you will be with Me in paradise.”Luke 23:43 NCV “I was caught up to the third heaven fourteen years ago. Whether I was in my body or out of my body, I don't know—only God knows. Yes, only God knows whether I was in my body or outside my body. But I do know that I was caught up to paradise and heard things so astounding that they cannot be expressed in words, things no human is allowed to tell.”2 Corinthians 12:2–4 NLT “I tell you the truth, today, you will be with Me in paradise.”Luke 23:43 NCV “We … would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”2 Corinthians 5:8 NIV “…Heaven open and the Son of Man standing at God's right side.”Acts 7:56 NCV “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”Acts 7:59 NCV “Thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly [being joined by] the spirits of the righteous made perfect.”Hebrews 12:22–23 NIV “Carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom.”Luke 16:22 NKJV “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgements and how inscrutable His ways!”Romans 11:33 ESV “When Christ appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.”1 John 3:2 NIV “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”Hebrews 12:1 NLT “Since we are surrounded … let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”Hebrews 12:1 NLT --- 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/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Key Verses: 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, 2 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.” Message Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49289630

Romans 12: 1-8 NIV  Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. 3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. 4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith; 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. 

Logan Holloman | NexGen Pastor | July 7, 2024 “God loves us, and we have the opportunity to love others as he loves us, not in big things, but in small things in great love”— Mother Teresa, 1979 Nobel Peace Prize Speech 1 John 4:10 (NIV)This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Romans 5:8 (NIV)But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Mark 10:45 (NIV)"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Romans 12:1 (NIV)Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Ephesians 5:2 (NIV)And walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Mark 2:16-19 (NIV)These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. What Gets in the Way? Matthew 28:16-20 (NIV)Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Mark 1:14-15(NIV)After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” Reflection Questions: 1. Is it hard for you to believe that God loves you?2. Who is God giving you the opportunity to love currently?3. What is one small thing in great love you could do for that person this week? 4. What does that look like?5. What obstacles or barriers do you need to overcome to make this happen?Matthew 28 says that some doubted while worshiping. Where is your area of doubt in regards to you living this passage out? (Fear of rejection, inadequacy, impact, lack of conviction, etc) Next Steps: Complete the Connect Card to receive more information, have us pray for you, or to ask us any question: http://journeybozeman.com/connectcardWant to worship through giving and support the ministry of Journey Church: https://journeybozeman.com/giveDownload our app: https://journeybozeman.com/app Join our Facebook Group to stay connected throughout the week: https://facebook.com/groups/JourneyChurchBozemanGet your children connected to our children's ministry, Base Camp: https://journeybozeman.com/childrenOur Student Ministry is for High School and Middle School students: https://journeybozeman.com/studentsSubscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneyChurchBozemanNotes Page: https://journeybozeman.com/

Summer at Bay Chapel | June 23, 2024Pastor Bria GilmoreWhen we feel out of control, we cling to something. ✓ We're anxious and/or fearful about it.✓ We attempt to manipulate the outcome.✓ We try to plan for every possible scenario.✓ We've become irritable or unpleasant.✓ We think we're the only ones who can handle it.✓ We put others down when they bring our control issues to our attention.✓ The very idea of letting go seems impossible. WHERE WE END, HE BEGINS Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭(NIV‬‬) “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” 1. What's in my view? Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬‬ ‭(NIV‬‬) “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. The greatest sacrifice I can make, the greatest offering I can bring, and the best worship I can give is me at the end of myself. 2. What pattern am I living by? Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ (‭NIV‬‬) Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” The pattern of this world is to stay in control. The pattern of the Kingdom of God is to stay surrendered.

Logan Holloman | Next Gen Pastor | June 23, 2024 John 15:1-5; 8 (NIV)“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing… This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” Galatians 2:11-14 (NIV)When Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. For before certain men came from James, he used to eat with the Gentiles. But when they arrived, he began to draw back and separate himself from the Gentiles because he was afraid of those who belonged to the circumcision group. The other Jews joined him in his hypocrisy, so that by their hypocrisy even Barnabas was led astray.When I saw that they were not acting in line with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas in front of them all, “You are a Jew, yet you live like a Gentile and not like a Jew. How is it, then, that you force Gentiles to follow Jewish customs? Acts 15:7-12 (NIV)After much discussion, Peter got up and addressed them: “Brothers, you know that some time ago God made a choice among you that the Gentiles might hear from my lips the message of the gospel and believe. God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. He did not discriminate between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith. Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of Gentiles a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors have been able to bear? No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are.” The whole assembly became silent as they listened to Barnabas and Paul telling about the signs and wonders God had done among the Gentiles through them. 1 Peter 3:14-16a (NIV)Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for these, be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace. And count the patience of our Lord as salvation, just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to the wisdom given him, as he does in all his letters when he speaks in them of these matters. Acts 15:36-40 (NIV) Choose one of the topics from this Restoring Us series:ConflictListeningForgivenessHumilitySpeaking Who?When?Fear/roadblockWhere can I make room? Reflection Questions: 1. Which of these areas of relationships comes most naturally to you? (conflict, listening, forgiveness, humility, or speaking)2. Which area of relationships might God be inviting you to intentionally focus on during the next week? Month?3. What obstacles come to mind when you think of intentional relationship areas in your life? What obstacles or challenges might you face if you don’t intentionally grow in these areas?4. What one or two steps can you take to overcome these obstacles you just identified?5. Finish this sentence…Through the Holy Spirit, I am beginning to realize my next step in relationships… Next Steps: Complete the Connect Card to receive more information, have us pray for you, or to ask us any question: http://journeybozeman.com/connectcardWant to worship through giving and support the ministry of Journey Church: https://journeybozeman.com/giveDownload our app:

Text: Hebrews 7 Key Verses: Hebrews 7:25 (NIV) “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” Message Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/49272662

Message for 06/16/2024 "Jesus is Interruptible" by Justin McTeer. *All verses are NLT unless otherwise noted* Hebrews 13:8-9a - Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. 9 So do not be attracted by strange, new ideas. Matthew 14:1-13a - When Herod Antipas, the ruler of Galilee, heard about Jesus, 2 he said to his advisers, “This must be John the Baptist raised from the dead! That is why he can do such miracles.” 3 For Herod had arrested and imprisoned John as a favor to his wife Herodias (the former wife of Herod's brother Philip). 4 John had been telling Herod, “It is against God's law for you to marry her.” 5 Herod wanted to kill John, but he was afraid of a riot, because all the people believed John was a prophet. 6 But at a birthday party for Herod, Herodias's daughter performed a dance that greatly pleased him, 7 so he promised with a vow to give her anything she wanted. 8 At her mother's urging, the girl said, “I want the head of John the Baptist on a tray!” 9 Then the king regretted what he had said; but because of the vow he had made in front of his guests, he issued the necessary orders. 10 So John was beheaded in the prison, 11 and his head was brought on a tray and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. 12 Later, John's disciples came for his body and buried it. Then they went and told Jesus what had happened. 13 As soon as Jesus heard the news, he left in a boat to a remote area to be alone. Matthew 14:13-14a - As soon as Jesus heard the news, he left in a boat to a remote area to be alone. But the crowds heard where he was headed and followed on foot from many towns. 14 Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat… Matthew 14:13-14 - As soon as Jesus heard the news, he left in a boat to a remote area to be alone. But the crowds heard where he was headed and followed on foot from many towns. 14 Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick. Jesus is Interruptible Mark 2:1-5 - When Jesus returned to Capernaum several days later, the news spread quickly that he was back home. 2 Soon the house where he was staying was so packed with visitors that there was no more room, even outside the door. While he was preaching God's word to them, 3 four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a mat.4 They couldn't bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, so they dug a hole through the roof above his head. Then they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus. 5 Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My child, your sins are forgiven.” Matthew 19:13-15 - One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him. 14 But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” 15 And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left. Luke 8:41-48 - Then a man named Jairus, a synagogue leader, came and fell at Jesus' feet, pleading with him to come to his house 42 because his only daughter, a girl of about twelve, was dying. As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him. 43 And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her. 44 She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped. 45 “Who touched me?” Jesus asked. When they all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you.” 46 But Jesus said, “Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.” 47 Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. 48 Then he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.” Philippians 2:1-5 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, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. 5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Hebrews 1:3a NIV - The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being,sustaining all things by his powerful word. Hebrews 4:16 NIV - Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Explain "Body Is The Temple" | The Todd Coconato Show  Website: www.PastorTodd.org To give: www.ToddCoconato.com/give The concept of our body being a temple of the Holy Spirit is deeply rooted in scripture and carries profound implications for believers in terms of self-care, spiritual discipline, and resisting the schemes of the devil. Let's explore this in detail with scriptural references and practical examples. Biblical Foundation 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV) "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." In this passage, Paul emphasizes that believers' bodies are indwelt by the Holy Spirit. This means that our physical bodies are sacred spaces where God's Spirit resides. This should inspire reverence and careful stewardship of our bodies. Romans 12:1 (NIV) "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship." Here, Paul calls believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, indicating that our physical lives should be dedicated to God's service, reflecting holiness and devotion. Listen to today's important broadcast about how we take care of the temple. 

Is the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit one or three?Yes. Angie unpacks the concept of Trinity and Jesus' instruction to baptize others in the name (singular) of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.Matthew 28:19 (NIV)“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”https://livesteadyon.com/Email Angie at: steadyonpodcast@gmail.comFacebook @livesteadyonInstagram @angiebaughman421Learn about Steady On University here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/cu/nNuXFKn/souGrab 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/Hans Bietenhard, “Ὄνομα, Ὀνομάζω, Ἐπονομάζω, Ψευδώνυμος,” ed. Gerhard Kittel, Geoffrey W. Bromiley, and Gerhard Friedrich, Theological Dictionary of the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1964–), 243.Vine, W. "Name - Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words." Blue Letter Bible. 24 Jun, 1996. Web. 8 Apr, 2024. Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset, and David Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible, vol. 2 (Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 1997), 63.Douglas Mangum, ed., Lexham Context Commentary: New Testament, Lexham Context Commentary (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2020), Mt 28:16–20.Louis A. Barbieri Jr., “Matthew,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 93–94.Angie mentioned:Book, “The Shack” by William P. YoungTheme music:Glimmer by Andy Ellison

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to stop, relax, refocus, and re-narrate your life. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Ephesians 6:11, 14-15 (NIV) 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. Putting on shoes of the gospel of peace Ephesians 6:15 (ESV) “And, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.” Romans 5:1-2 (NIV) “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.” John 14:27 (NIV) “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. …Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located. 

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to stop, relax, refocus, and re-narrate your life. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Ephesians 6:11, 14-15 (NIV) 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. Putting on shoes of the gospel of peace Ephesians 6:15 (ESV) “And, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.” Romans 5:1-2 (NIV) “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.” Hebrews 4:16 (NIV) “Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located. 

The wonderful Jennie Allen joins Stasi for a conversation fueled by honesty and whimsy. Jennie shares her personal journey of falling in love with Jesus, her emotional awakening, and her fabulous new book, Untangle Your Emotions. She shares how emotional vulnerability and authenticity foster a closer relationship with God and community. Friends, there is great power in not walking alone in our pain, and because we are the focus of God's affection, we can come to him honestly, where we will receive his compassion and mercy. He is always with us. His invitation is to come close, pay attention to the gift of our emotions, and share with him our hearts in their fullness.…..SHOW NOTES:…..VERSES: Romans 5:1 (NLT) — Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.Psalm 16:9 (NIV) — Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure,Romans 15:3 (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.Genesis 1:31 (NLT) — Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good! …Genesis 6:6 (NLT) — So the Lord was sorry he had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke his heart.Exodus 32:10 (NLT) — Now leave me alone so my fierce anger can blaze against them, and I will destroy them. Then I will make you, Moses, into a great nation.”John 11:35 (NLT) — Then Jesus wept.2 Corinthians 10:5 (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.Ephesians 4:26-27 (NLT) — And “don't sin by letting anger control you.” Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.1 Corinthians 15:32 (NLT) — And what value was there in fighting wild beasts—those people of Ephesus—if there will be no resurrection from the dead? And if there is no resurrection, “Let's feast and drink, for tomorrow we die!”…..JENNIE ALLENIf:Gathering:  ifgathering.comGather25: gather25.comWebsite: jennieallen.comPodcast: jennieallen.com/podcastInstagram: instagram.com/jennieallenYouTube: https://wahe.art/3TtinOuFacebook: facebook.com/jenniesallenJENNIE ALLEN BIO:Jennie Allen, Bible teacher, author, and the visionary behind IF:Gathering, leads a new chapter as the Founder & Visionary of Gather25, a 25-hour global prayer gathering. Driven by a deep love for God and an unyielding belief in the potential of this generation, Jennie's mission is to disciple a generation of Jesus followers to live what they believe.Through her writing and teaching, Jennie seeks to convey a simple yet profound truth: God sees you, loves you, and invites you to play your part in His unfolding story. She has witnessed firsthand the miraculous work of Jesus when people fully surrender to Him.Jennie is a passionate leader following God's call on her life to catalyze a generation to live what they believe. Jennie is the New York Times' best-selling author of Untangle Your Emotions, Find Your People and Get Out of Your Head. Jennie has a masters in Biblical Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary and lives in Dallas, Texas, with her husband, Zac, and their four children.JENNIE'S BOOKS (mentioned)Untangle Your Emotions: Naming What You Feel and Knowing What to Do About It – https://wahe.art/3TGJzuuGet Out of Your Head: Stopping the Spiral of Toxic Thoughts – https://wahe.art/3PsZSbX…..RESOURCES:The Sacred Romance by Brent Curtis and John Eldredge – https://amzn.to/49jL6MG…..Don't Miss Out on the Next Episode – Subscribe for FreeSubscribe using your favorite podcast app:Spotify Podcasts – https://spoti.fi/42SsOipApple Podcasts – https://apple.co/42E0oZ1 Google Podcasts – http://wahe.art/3M81kxLAmazon Music & Audible – https://amzn.to/3M9u6hJ

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life – a time for you to stop, relax, refocus, and re-narrate your life. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can break through all the distractions and experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. Ephesians 6:11, 14-17 (NIV) 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Putting on shoes of the gospel of peace Ephesians 6:15 (ESV) “And, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.” Romans 5:1-2 (NIV) “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located. 

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can stop, break through all the distractions, and bodily experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. 1 Corinthians 6:19 ESV “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God?” Romans 12:1-2 NIV “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Job 10:12 ESV “You have granted me life and steadfast love, and your care has preserved my spirit.” Job 33:4 NIV “The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” Acts 17:25 NIV “…He himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located. 

This is Christian Meditation for A Bigger Life. I'm Dave Cover. I want to help you with Christian meditation where you can stop, break through all the distractions, and bodily experience God's presence through biblically guided imagination.  If your podcast app is set to skip the silent sections, disable that in your podcast app for this podcast. 1 Corinthians 6:19 ESV “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God?” Romans 12:1-2 NIV “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Job 10:12 ESV “You have granted me life and steadfast love, and your care has preserved my spirit.” Job 33:4 NIV “The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” Who can you share this podcast with? If you found this episode helpful, consider sharing it on social media or texting it to a friend you think might benefit from it. Follow Dave Cover on X (Twitter) @davecover Follow A Bigger Life on X @ABiggerLifePod Our audio engineer is Matthew Matlack. This podcast is a ministry of The Crossing, a church in Columbia, Missouri, a college town where the flagship campus of the University of Missouri is located.