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This is no fairy tale… this is a fairy shrimp! Discover an amazing creature that makes its home in seasonal vernal ponds and whose eggs can wait for years, or even centuries, to hatch!Here's our trail map:What Is a Vernal Pond?What Is a Fairy Shrimp?Where Do Fairy Shrimp Come From?How Did God Design Fairy Shrimp to Thrive Through Rest?How Can We Wait and Rest Well?Episode Links:Order Eryn's book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Plan Your Visit to the Family Adventure Days at the Creation Museum: CreationMuseum.org/family-daysDiscover God's wild and wonderful world with the Kids Answers magazine by Answers in Genesis: GetAnswers.org/kids Eryn's Fairy Shrimp Video: https://www.instagram.com/erynlynumauthor/reel/CuZtkzvgsqB/Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Vernal Pond Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/fairy-shrimp-facts-for-kids/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Some of the resources used for research:https://www.vernalpool.org/fairy-shrimphttps://coloradostories.online/colorado-connie-blog/f/in-search-of-colorado-fairy-shrimpScriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then God said, ‘Let the water be filled with living things…'” Genesis 1:20 (NCV)“Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.” Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)“They who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength…” Isaiah 40:31 (ESV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Vernal Pond: Temporary seasonal pond that forms when rainwater fills an area during wet seasons.Habitat: An area where something living makes its home. It's an area that provides what that living thing needs to survive including food, water, shelter, and a mate.Invertebrates: Creatures that do not have a backbone or bony skeleton.Fairy Shrimp: Small, see-through crustaceans that live in freshwater vernal ponds.Dormant: When something is not active or growing. But it could become active and keep growing in the future.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. Mentioned in this episode:NOR Series Final April 21 - May

[Luke 19:29-35] As he came to the towns of Bethphage and Bethany on the Mount of Olives, he sent two disciples ahead. [30] "Go into that village over there," he told them. "As you enter it, you will see a young donkey tied there that no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. [31] If anyone asks, 'Why are you untying that colt?' just say, 'The Lord needs it.'" [32] So they went and found the colt, just as Jesus had said. [33] And sure enough, as they were untying it, the owners asked them, "Why are you untying that colt?" [34] And the disciples simply replied, "The Lord needs it." [35] So they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments over it for him to ride on.Kings would ride horses as a symbol of ________________, but Jesus rode a donkey are a symbol of _______________.[Zechariah 9:9] Rejoice, O people of Zion! Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! Look, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious, yet he is humble, riding on a donkey--riding on a donkey's colt.Jesus rode on a donkey's colt to ________________ ancient prophecy.[John 1:29] The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!Jesus is the ________________ would would ___________ to remove our sin.[John 12:13 NIV] They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna!" "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Blessed is the king of Israel!"The people wanted someone to wear a ________________, but Jesus came to carry the ________________.Jesus didn't come to save us from our ________________, He came to save us from ________________.[Matthew 21:10-11] The entire city of Jerusalem was in an uproar as he entered. "Who is this?" they asked. [11] And the crowds replied, "It's Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee."Disappointment often reveals our spiritual ______________.Are you following Jesus for what He ________________, or for ________________ He is?[John 12:32] And when I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself."

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

The Power of Fellowship | February 2, 2025Pastor Wes MorrisI John 1:1-4 (NLT) We proclaim to you the one who existed from the beginning, whom we have heard and seen. We saw him with our own eyes and touched him with our own hands. He is the Word of life. This one who is life itself was revealed to us, and we have seen him. And now we testify and proclaim to you that he is the one who is eternal life. He was with the Father, and then he was revealed to us.We proclaim to you what we ourselves have actually seen and heard so that you may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. We are writing these things so that you may fully share our joy.Koinonia: A bond that unites believers with each other and with Jesus.I Corinthians 1:9 (NIV) God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.Acts 2:42 (NIV) They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.√  IT STARTS WITH PRIDE.√  WE SLOWLY DRIFT.√  WE ARE VULNERABLE TO THE ENEMY'S ATTACK.“Sin demands to have a man by himself. The more isolated a person is, the more destructive will be the power of sin over him.”  - Dietrich Bonhoeffer Ecclesiastes 4:8-10 (TLB) I also observed another piece of foolishness around the earth. This is the case of a man who is quite alone, without a son or brother, yet he works hard to keep gaining more riches. And to whom will he leave it all, and why is he giving up so much now? It is all so pointless and depressing.Two can accomplish more than twice as much as one, for the results can be much better. If one falls, the other pulls him up; but if a man falls when he is alone, he's in trouble.THE POWER OF FELLOWSHIPRomans 12:5 (NLT) Since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.I. TOGETHER WE ARE ENCOURAGED.Hebrews 3:13 (NIV) But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.I Thessalonians 5:11 (MSG) Speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you're already doing this; just keep on doing it.II. TOGETHER WE ARE CHALLENGED.Proverbs 27:6 (NLT) Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy.James 5:16 (NIV) Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.III. TOGETHER WE WIN.Exodus 17:10-13 (TLB) So Joshua and his men went out to fight the army of Amalek. Meanwhile Moses, Aaron, and Hur went to the top of the hill. And as long as Moses held up the rod in his hands, Israel was winning; but whenever he rested his arms at his sides, the soldiers of Amalek were winning. Moses' arms finally became too tired to hold up the rod any longer; so Aaron and Hur rolled a stone for him to sit on, and they stood on each side, holding up his hands until sunset. As a result, Joshua and his troops crushed the army of Amalek, putting them to the sword.

 Connecting The Dots // Created for Connection 1.     You are a part of God's family. 2 Corinthians 6:18 (NIV)"I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty." Acts 5:42 (NIV)“Day after day, (they met) in the temple courts and from house to house.” Acts 2:42-47 (NIV)“They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” 2.     You study and talk about the bible together with others. Acts 2:42 (NIV)“They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching.” 3.     Grow in learning how to love others better. Acts 2:42 (NIV)“They devoted themselves to…fellowship.” 4.     We eat together. Acts 2:42 (NIV)“They devoted themselves to…the breaking of bread.” 5.     You give and receive prayer.  Acts 2:42 (NIV)“They devoted themselves to…prayer.” Galatians 6:2 (NIV)“Carry each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” 6.     Because you and others have needs. Acts 2:45 (NLT)...Shared…with those in need.…

Do we understand that we need a deeper relationship with God in order to receive a second touch from Him? Do I feel like a should be in a deeper relationship with God? A place where the power of God transforms my life – More than simply coming to a church meeting? Jeremiah 33:1-3 NIV While Jeremiah was still confined in the courtyard of the guard, the word of the LORD came to him a second time: [2] “This is what the LORD says, he who made the earth, the LORD who formed it and established it—the LORD is his name: [3] ‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.' Mark 8:22-26 NIV They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. [23] He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man's eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?” [24] He looked up and said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.” [25] Once more Jesus put his hands on the man's eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. [26] Jesus sent him home, saying, “Don't even go into the village.” Sometimes the anointing may come in a way we don't like or want… To stay up to date with podcasts from LifeLine Church, please subscribe. Shows include: LifeLine Church Sunday Services – a weekly broadcast of the message from our Sunday meeting Evolution Revolution with LifeLine Church – an exploration of how foundational values can transition across generations Reflections on Kings 1 & 2 – applying the insights and lessons from these two old testament books to our lives today Kingdom Finance – Jesus talked more about money than about anything else. Why? How do we handle money correctly? Kingdom Relationships – Relationship is core to the character and nature of God…so what does real friendship look like for us? To access a range of resources and supporting material, series on specific topics including Kingdom finance and Kingdom relationships please visit lifelinechurch.co.uk If you prefer to watch, please visit our YouTube channel @LifeLineChurchDagenham where we broadcast our Sunday meeting live at 10.30am. Playlists include: Reflections on Kings 1 & 2 Sunday morning talks Testimonies A Pilgrim's Story Dawn’s First Light by Sascha Ende Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/12029-dawns-first-light License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

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

The church is an eschatological community, possessing a certain hope and clear destiny while it lives in the strangeness of ecclesial existence in the here and now.Matthew 22:15-21 NIV - Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words. They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren't swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?” But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought him a denarius, and he asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?” “Caesar's,” they replied. Then he said to them, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's.”1 Samuel 8:5-7 NIV - They said to him, “You are old, and your sons do not follow your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have.”But when they said, “Give us a king to lead us,” this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the Lord. And the Lord told him: “Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.

The church is an eschatological community, possessing a certain hope and clear destiny while it lives in the strangeness of ecclesial existence in the here and now.Matthew 22:15-21 NIV - Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words. They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren't swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?” But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought him a denarius, and he asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?” “Caesar's,” they replied. Then he said to them, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's.”1 Samuel 8:5-7 NIV - They said to him, “You are old, and your sons do not follow your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have.”But when they said, “Give us a king to lead us,” this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the Lord. And the Lord told him: “Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.

The church is an eschatological community, possessing a certain hope and clear destiny while it lives in the strangeness of ecclesial existence in the here and now.Matthew 22:15-21 NIV - Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words. They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren't swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?” But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought him a denarius, and he asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?” “Caesar's,” they replied. Then he said to them, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's.”1 Samuel 8:5-7 NIV - They said to him, “You are old, and your sons do not follow your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have.”But when they said, “Give us a king to lead us,” this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the Lord. And the Lord told him: “Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.

The church is an eschatological community, possessing a certain hope and clear destiny while it lives in the strangeness of ecclesial existence in the here and now.Matthew 22:15-21 NIV - Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words. They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren't swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?” But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought him a denarius, and he asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?” “Caesar's,” they replied. Then he said to them, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's.”1 Samuel 8:5-7 NIV - They said to him, “You are old, and your sons do not follow your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have.”But when they said, “Give us a king to lead us,” this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the Lord. And the Lord told him: “Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.

In a time when our world faces unprecedented challenges, let us remember the enduring goodness and love of the LORD. As Psalm 100:5 reminds us, "For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” Let us continue to stand united in faith and hope, knowing that our actions today shape the world for tomorrow. Together, we can create a legacy of love and resilience that will inspire those who follow us. If you are new to Community Church, WELCOME! We would love to get to know you. Please fill in the following form and we look forward to connecting with you: https://bit.ly/cc-new-connect You can find all timely and relevant links from this service on https://bit.ly/cc-links You can also find out more about us at https://communitychurch.hk/ ================ This Week's Scripture: // Key Verses // Proverbs 16:31: Grey hair is a crown of splendour; it is attained in the way of righteousness. 1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV)Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. Psalm 92:14 (NIV) They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green…  Psalm 8:2 (NIV) Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies…

Episode Summary:  In this episode, I chatted with Shonda Whitworth, who shared about her wounds, her pain, and now her sacred scars after walking through a most devastating experience when her son was incarcerated. What the enemy tried to use to quiet and shut Shonda down, God has now used to bring her into a greater aspect of her calling.  Quotables from the episode: When they said “Your son has been arrested for aggravated assault,” I went numb and didn't know how to respond because the person they were describing on my phone was not the son I knew. I grabbed hold of Romans 8:28. At the time, that verse just felt overused to me, like a Bible verse Band-Aid. But I held my Bible and declared that this was God's Word, and asked Him to make it real for me. This was one of the last things I ever expected to happen. I raised him in the way he should go, taught him the word, took him to Sunday School, and taught him about God. I didn't expect him to depart from his upbringing and it just devastated me. I was hopeful things would turn around, but that's not what happened. I was looking for a miracle ending. We take either the fight or flight response, and I took the flight response. I just wanted to hide in my cave. I didn't want to be seen in social situations and wanted to hide from conversation about our children. The depression and anxiety were overwhelming. It knocked me down. I went dark for a while and retreated for a season. The enemy brings shame, guilt, regret, and fear. I felt like I was wearing a big “F” for mother of a felon. The depression and anxiety came from listening to all the lies about myself. I was operating with a double-mind. In prison, my son began experiencing freedom that doesn't depend on a location. Scripture says, “where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” He began operating in freedom as he started growing in his relationship with the Lord. I thought, “Isn't this ironic? Here I am living in the free world, but all these bars of fear, guilt, shame, condemnation were keeping me captive in my own home. But my son who is in prison is experiencing freedom!” The amazing thing is that when I did share about what I was experiencing, I got nothing but compassion, the opposite of what the enemy convinced me I would experience. It gets better as healing comes in layers. One thing that was so helpful in my journey was having a reason to get up every day. The more I share my story, the more I put myself out there, the more healing comes; the more I have courage, and the more my confidence builds. When we experience shame, we want to stay in the dark where no one can see us because with shame comes embarrassment. We fear “if others find out, what will they say? Will they reject me? Will they abandon me? Will they gossip about me?” But when we take what's in the dark and bring it out into God's healing light, rarely is it as bad as we think it's going to be and it brings healing. My husband and I started a ministry to other families with family members incarcerated. By me opening up and sharing our story, it's helping other people find hope, to find healing, and to encourage them not to give up on this side of eternity.  Every life is valuable, and we can see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Even those who are in prison, their life is invaluable. Everyone has a purpose whether it's inside prison walls or outside prison walls. The more I tell my story, the more it silences that accusing voice that comes against us from the enemy. When we open our mouths and testify what Jesus has done for us, the more it silences the enemy who accuses us. Jesus came to set the captives free and that includes you. Never give up. Always pray and never give up! Speaking out the Word of God gives us courage and hope and reminds us that everyone has a purpose and not to quit on your purpose. John 15:16 reminds us that Jesus has chosen us. You are chosen. You are not forsaken. You have a purpose. Don't quit! We are all imperfect and in need of a Savior.  The cross levels the playing field.   Scripture References: Romans 8:28 NKJV “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” 2 Corinthians 3:17 “Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” Luke 18:1 “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.” NLT Psalm 27:13 NIV “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” Revelations 12:11 NIV “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” John 15:16 NIV “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”   Recommended Resources:  A free downloadable PDF of 8 Prayers to Pray for Your Incarcerated Loved One is available at FortressofHopeMinistries.com Appeal to the Courtroom of Heaven: Petitions for Prisoners and Prison Families by Shonda Whitworth 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 Shonda Whitworth: Shonda Website / Fortress Website / Shonda Facebook / Fortress Facebook / Shonda Twitter / Fortress Twitter / Shonda LinkedIn / Fortress LinkedIn 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: Shonda Whitworth's expertise as an author span two decades, from articles to her most heart-wrenching book, Appeal to the Courtroom of Heaven: Petitions for Prisoners and Prison Families. She is a writing and self-publishing coach who nurtures authors visions from manuscript to the marketplace. Discover more at ShondaWhitworth.me.   Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson    

“Once upon a time in a faraway land…” is the language of fairy tales, and through them, a longing in the heart can well up. In this episode, Stasi shares that we identify with these stories because they speak to both our story and our identity—our longing to be pursued, fought for, and loved, and the truth that we are more than meets the eye. God's promise is the promise of restoration, and in him, we can both discover and be restored to who we are truly meant to be. There is transformative power in understanding one's true self in the heart of God, allowing his voice to be the ultimate authority in defining our identity.…..SHOW NOTES:…..VERSES: Luke 19:10 (NLT) — For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.Matthew 3:16-17 (NLT) —  After his baptism, as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy.”Isaiah 61:1-3 (NIV) — The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.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.Ezekiel 37:1-10 (NLT) — The Valley of Dry BonesLuke 1:34-37 (NKJV) — Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. For with God nothing will be impossible.”Matthew 19:25-26 (NLT) — The disciples were astounded. “Then who in the world can be saved?” they asked. Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.”Ecclesiastes 9:4 (NLT) — Anyone who is among the living has hope…Isaiah 62:2-4 (NIV) — …you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will bestow. You will be a crown of splendor in the Lord's hand, a royal diadem in the hand of your God. No longer will they call you Deserted, or name your land Desolate. But you will be called Hephzibah, and your land Beulah; for the Lord will take delight in you,  and your land will be married.Isaiah 62:12 — (NIV)  They will be called the Holy People,  the Redeemed of the Lord; and you will be called Sought After,Song of Song 7:10 (NIV) — I belong to my beloved, and his desire is for me.…..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

Message for 04/28/2024 "When God Doesn't Meet Your Expectations" by Justin McTeer. *All verses are NLT unless otherwise noted* Matthew 9:35-38 - Jesus traveled through all the towns and villages of that area, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. 38 So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” Matthew 11:1 - When Jesus had finished giving these instructions to his twelve disciples, he went out to teach and preach in towns throughout the region. Matthew 11:2-19 - John the Baptist, who was in prison, heard about all the things the Messiah was doing. So he sent his disciples to ask Jesus, 3 “Are you the Messiah we've been expecting, or should we keep looking for someone else?” 4 Jesus told them, “Go back to John and tell him what you have heard and seen— 5 the blind see, the lame walk, those with leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised to life, and the Good News is being preached to the poor.”6 And he added, “God blesses those who do not fall away because of me.” 7 As John's disciples were leaving, Jesus began talking about him to the crowds. “What kind of man did you go into the wilderness to see? Was he a weak reed, swayed by every breath of wind? 8 Or were you expecting to see a man dressed in expensive clothes? No, people with expensive clothes live in palaces. 9 Were you looking for a prophet? Yes, and he is more than a prophet. 10 John is the man to whom the Scriptures refer when they say, ‘Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, and he will prepare your way before you.' 11 “I tell you the truth, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John the Baptist. Yet even the least person in the Kingdom of Heaven is greater than he is! 12 And from the time John the Baptist began preaching until now, the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing, and violent people are attacking it. 13 For before John came, all the prophets and the law of Moses looked forward to this present time.14 And if you are willing to accept what I say, he is Elijah, the one the prophets said would come. 15 Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand! 16 “To what can I compare this generation? It is like children playing a game in the public square. They complain to their friends, 17 ‘We played wedding songs, and you didn't dance, so we played funeral songs, and you didn't mourn.' 18 For John didn't spend his time eating and drinking, and you say, ‘He's possessed by a demon.' 19 The Son of Man, on the other hand, feasts and drinks, and you say, ‘He's a glutton and a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and other sinners!' But wisdom is shown to be right by its results.” John 3:26-30 NIV - They came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan—the one you testified about—look, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him.” 27 To this John replied, “A person can receive only what is given them from heaven. 28 You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Messiah but am sent ahead of him.' 29 The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom's voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. 30 He must become greater; I must become less.” Matthew 12:46-50 - As Jesus was speaking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, asking to speak to him. 47 Someone told Jesus, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, and they want to speak to you.” 48 Jesus asked, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” 49 Then he pointed to his disciples and said, “Look, these are my mother and brothers. 50 Anyone who does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother!” Mark 3:21 - When his family heard what was happening, they tried to take him away. “He's out of his mind,” they said. Matthew 3:10-12 - Even now the ax of God's judgment is poised, ready to sever the roots of the trees. Yes, every tree that does not produce good fruit will be chopped down and thrown into the fire.“I baptize with water those who repent of their sins and turn to God. But someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I'm not worthy even to be his slave and carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. 12 He is ready to separate the chaff from the wheat with his winnowing fork. Then he will clean up the threshing area, gathering the wheat into his barn but burning the chaff with never-ending fire.” Isaiah 35:4 -Say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you.” Isaiah 35:5-6a - And when he comes, he will open the eyes of the blind and unplug the ears of the deaf.6 The lame will leap like a deer, and those who cannot speak will sing for joy! Examine their origin Adjust them Let them go Matthew 11:15-19 - Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand! 16 “To what can I compare this generation? It is like children playing a game in the public square. They complain to their friends, 17 ‘We played wedding songs, and you didn't dance, so we played funeral songs, and you didn't mourn.' 18 For John didn't spend his time eating and drinking, and you say, ‘He's possessed by a demon.' 19 The Son of Man, on the other hand, feasts and drinks, and you say, ‘He's a glutton and a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and other sinners!' But wisdom is shown to be right by its results.”

Pastor Whit begins our new teaching series, How to Hear God. Hebrews 1v1-3 ESV 1 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. 3 He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 1 John 1v1 NIV That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. Luke 24v32 NIV They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” John 10v27 ESV My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. Did you love this message? Our Lead Pastor, Whit George, has a podcast called "Tell Me More" where he answers questions and talks about things he didn't get to discuss on the weekend with our Spiritual Formation Pastor, Casey Shirley. If you're a podcast listener, you can find all the episodes of Tell Me More housed in our In Motion Podcast: Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/2IPv975... Apple Podcasts | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... If you're a podcast watcher, you can find the episodes right here on our YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@cotm?si=RhHkf8YJ...

Mark 11:27-12:12 NIV - They arrived again in Jerusalem, and while Jesus was walking in the temple courts, the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders came to him. “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you authority to do this?”Jesus replied, “I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John's baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin? Tell me!”They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,' he will ask, ‘Then why didn't you believe him?' But if we say, ‘Of human origin' …” (They feared the people, for everyone held that John really was a prophet.)So they answered Jesus, “We don't know.”Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”Jesus then began to speak to them in parables: “A man planted a vineyard. He put a wall around it, dug a pit for the winepress and built a watchtower. Then he rented the vineyard to some farmers and moved to another place. At harvest time he sent a servant to the tenants to collect from them some of the fruit of the vineyard. But they seized him, beat him and sent him away empty-handed. Then he sent another servant to them; they struck this man on the head and treated him shamefully. He sent still another, and that one they killed. He sent many others; some of them they beat, others they killed.“He had one left to send, a son, whom he loved. He sent him last of all, saying, ‘They will respect my son.'“But the tenants said to one another, ‘This is the heir. Come, let's kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.' So they took him and killed him, and threw him out of the vineyard.“What then will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and kill those tenants and give the vineyard to others. Haven't you read this passage of Scripture:“‘The stone the builders rejected    has become the cornerstone;the Lord has done this,    and it is marvelous in our eyes'?”Then the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders looked for a way to arrest him because they knew he had spoken the parable against them. But they were afraid of the crowd; so they left him and went away.

Mark 11:27-12:12 NIV - They arrived again in Jerusalem, and while Jesus was walking in the temple courts, the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders came to him. “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you authority to do this?”Jesus replied, “I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John's baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin? Tell me!”They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,' he will ask, ‘Then why didn't you believe him?' But if we say, ‘Of human origin' …” (They feared the people, for everyone held that John really was a prophet.)So they answered Jesus, “We don't know.”Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”Jesus then began to speak to them in parables: “A man planted a vineyard. He put a wall around it, dug a pit for the winepress and built a watchtower. Then he rented the vineyard to some farmers and moved to another place. At harvest time he sent a servant to the tenants to collect from them some of the fruit of the vineyard. But they seized him, beat him and sent him away empty-handed. Then he sent another servant to them; they struck this man on the head and treated him shamefully. He sent still another, and that one they killed. He sent many others; some of them they beat, others they killed.“He had one left to send, a son, whom he loved. He sent him last of all, saying, ‘They will respect my son.'“But the tenants said to one another, ‘This is the heir. Come, let's kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.' So they took him and killed him, and threw him out of the vineyard.“What then will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and kill those tenants and give the vineyard to others. Haven't you read this passage of Scripture:“‘The stone the builders rejected    has become the cornerstone;the Lord has done this,    and it is marvelous in our eyes'?”Then the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders looked for a way to arrest him because they knew he had spoken the parable against them. But they were afraid of the crowd; so they left him and went away.

Mark 10:32-45 NIV - They were on their way up to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who followed were afraid. Again he took the Twelve aside and told them what was going to happen to him. “We are going up to Jerusalem,” he said, “and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and the teachers of the law. They will condemn him to death and will hand him over to the Gentiles, who will mock him and spit on him, flog him and kill him. Three days later he will rise.”Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do for us whatever we ask.”“What do you want me to do for you?” he asked.They replied, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.”“You don't know what you are asking,” Jesus said. “Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?”“We can,” they answered.Jesus said to them, “You will drink the cup I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with, but to sit at my right or left is not for me to grant. These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared.”When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 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.”

Mark 10:32-45 NIV - They were on their way up to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who followed were afraid. Again he took the Twelve aside and told them what was going to happen to him. “We are going up to Jerusalem,” he said, “and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and the teachers of the law. They will condemn him to death and will hand him over to the Gentiles, who will mock him and spit on him, flog him and kill him. Three days later he will rise.”Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do for us whatever we ask.”“What do you want me to do for you?” he asked.They replied, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.”“You don't know what you are asking,” Jesus said. “Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?”“We can,” they answered.Jesus said to them, “You will drink the cup I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with, but to sit at my right or left is not for me to grant. These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared.”When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 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.”

Mark 9:30-37 NIV - They left that place and passed through Galilee. Jesus did not want anyone to know where they were, because he was teaching his disciples. He said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise.” But they did not understand what he meant and were afraid to ask him about it.They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest.Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”

Mark 9:30-37 NIV - They left that place and passed through Galilee. Jesus did not want anyone to know where they were, because he was teaching his disciples. He said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise.” But they did not understand what he meant and were afraid to ask him about it.They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest.Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”

Mark 8:22-33 NIV - They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man's eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?”He looked up and said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.”Once more Jesus put his hands on the man's eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. Jesus sent him home, saying, “Don't even go into the village.”Peter Declares That Jesus Is the MessiahJesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked them, “Who do people say I am?”They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.”“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.”Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.He then began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and after three days rise again. He spoke plainly about this, and Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him.But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter. “Get behind me, Satan!” he said. “You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.”

Mark 8:22-33 NIV - They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man's eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?”He looked up and said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.”Once more Jesus put his hands on the man's eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. Jesus sent him home, saying, “Don't even go into the village.”Peter Declares That Jesus Is the MessiahJesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked them, “Who do people say I am?”They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.”“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.”Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.He then began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and after three days rise again. He spoke plainly about this, and Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him.But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter. “Get behind me, Satan!” he said. “You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.”

Mark 1:21-29 NIV - They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an impure spirit cried out, “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”“Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!” The impure spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek.The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.” News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee.As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew.Simon's mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they immediately told Jesus about her. So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. The whole town gathered at the door, and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.

Mark 1:21-29 NIV - They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an impure spirit cried out, “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”“Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!” The impure spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek.The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.” News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee.As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew.Simon's mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they immediately told Jesus about her. So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. The whole town gathered at the door, and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.

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. James 1:16-17 NIV “Don't be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.” John 3:26-27 NIV “They came to John and said to him, ‘Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan—the one you testified about—look, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him.' To this John replied, ‘A person can receive only what is given them from heaven.'” Ephesians 2:10 NIV “For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” 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. James 1:16-17 NIV “Don't be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.” John 3:26-27 NIV “They came to John and said to him, ‘Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan—the one you testified about—look, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him.' To this John replied, ‘A person can receive only what is given them from heaven.'” Ephesians 2:10 NIV “For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” 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. 

https://youtu.be/JwojxnajIAo?si=OZk5rdYCCY_hOKSq The House Where Jesus Stayed Greetings everyone! Hello to everyone in the room. Hello to everyone worshipping with us online. God bless you all. I hope you are still having a happy new year. Welcome back to Redemption Church in Plano, TX. My name is Chris Fluitt and I believe the God's Word has a lot to teach us. Today I would like you to turn with me to Matthew 13:1. I hope your Bible reading plan is going well and that you are constantly learning more and more about God and how he feels about you.   Matthew 13:1 (NIV) That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake.  Do you see what I see? This verse made me ask… “What house?”   What House?  Did Jesus own a house? Jesus says something that leads us to believe he was HOME-LESS.   Matthew 8:19-20 (NIV) Then a teacher of the law came to him and said, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.”  Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.”    Foxes have a den to call their own.Birds have a nest to call their own.The son of man does NOT have a place to call his own. Whose house is it?  Mark chapter 1 tells us where this house is and whose house it is.   Mark 1:21 (NIV) They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach.    Jesus is in Capernaum - northern edge of the Sea of Galilee. Capernaum appears 16 times in the Gospels. A lot of Jesus activity happens in the village of Capernum.   Mark 1:29 (NIV) As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew.    The House of Simon & AndrewThe home of Simon Peter & Andrew in the village of Capernaum is the house where Jesus stayed. Mark 1 – Jesus says “Follow me” to Peter, Andrew, James, & John. (v16) More than just profess a religion, they follow Jesus and very quickly allow Him to stay in their house. Visiting someone's house = relationship.Staying at someone's house = committed relationship. Imagine what it was like having the Lord in their house… In this house… Jesus taught and revealed mysterious parables.  Miracles.  A closeness with Jesus. DAY ONE of Jesus in the House.   Mark 1:30-33 (NIV) Simon's mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they immediately told Jesus about her.  So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.  That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed.  The whole town gathered at the door,    What door?  The door where Jesus is staying!  Amazing things happen when Jesus is in your house.   Jesus is in the house, and the whole town gathered at the door. Imagine that!  Imagine your house and your door.  Jesus meets Matthew. Matthew 9:9-10 (NIV) As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector's booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.  While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew's house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples.    Jesus tells Matthew “Follow me,” and the next thing you know Jesus is in Matthew's home.  Notice how immediately Matthew opened his home to Jesus?  Do you see that Matthew immediately introduces all of his friends to the Lord?   Have you invited Jesus to your house? Has Jesus ever received an invitation to your house? Have you ever introduced your friends to Jesus? IF NOT…  What is the difference between us and Matthew? …Peter & Andrew?  When they met Jesus they were quick to bring Jesus into every part of their life?   What do you think of when you hear the words “House of God?”   House of God Large building, stained glass windows? Statues of Jesus, ornate crosses? Well-trained praise team or a pipe organ & choir leading worship as people sit in seats? As a Church planter, I can tell you that churches spend a lot of time, energy,

Sermon Notes Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown." When he said this, he called out, "Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear." Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them." Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown." When he said this, he called out, "Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear." Jesus believes my transformed life will produce more life. Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭26‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ They sailed to the region of the Gerasenes, which is across the lake from Galilee. ‭‭Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭27‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ When Jesus stepped ashore, he was met by a demon-possessed man from the town. For a long time this man had not worn clothes or lived in a house, but had lived in the tombs. Demonic possession is where an evil spirit takes over the thoughts, actions, and decision-making of a human. It happens but is rare. Demonic oppression is where a person, even a Christian, is tormented or tempted by an evil spirit. ‭‭James‬ ‭4‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. ‭James 4‬:‭7‬-‭8‬a ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. "There are two equal and opposite errors into which our race can fall about the devils. One is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them." – C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭28‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell at his feet, shouting at the top of his voice, "What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don't torture me!" Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭29‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ For Jesus had commanded the impure spirit to come out of the man. Many times it had seized him, and though he was chained hand and foot and kept under guard, he had broken his chains and had been driven by the demon into solitary places. Jesus relentlessly pursues those who need him most. Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭34‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ When those tending the pigs saw what had happened, they ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, Be bold while sharing your story. Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭35‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ And the people went out to see what had happened. When they came to Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had gone out, sitting at Jesus' feet, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭36‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Those who had seen it told the people how the demon-possessed man had been cured. ‭‭Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭37‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Then all the people of the region of the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave them, because they were overcome with fear. So he got into the boat and left. Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭38‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ The man from whom the demons had gone out begged to go with him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, "Return home and tell how much God has done for you." So the man went away and told all over town how much Jesus had done for him. Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"

https://youtu.be/FKauewW8gQI Long Story Short 7: David – a Giant and an Everlasting Throne   Redemption Church Plano Tx Welcome to Redemption Church of Plano Tx. My name is Chris Fluitt and I am glad to share this moment with you today. Hello to our online Church friends. Please leave us a comment and let us know you are there.Hello in person worshippers. Please amen me frequently so I know you are there.  Long Story Short We are in the 7th week of our Long Story Short series.  Tonight we are going to talk about king David and famous battle he fought, but first we have some fill in some timeline. Last week we made an Exodus from Egypt with Moses. Moses dies – leaves them with God's commands for worship and life. Joshua leads – they take the promise land – Israel (fulfilling the promise to Abraham) People judge – Book of Judges, people judging for themselves how to live. (messy) Samuel speaks – Priest and prophet leads people in a chaotic time. Desire for a king – The people desired a king. 1 Samuel 8:5 (NIV) They said to him, “You are old, and your sons do not follow your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have.”   They wanted a king, but why? The other nations had them… Israel was called to be different from other nations. Their King was to be God. They were to show the world that it was BETTER to make God your King. Israel wanted to be like everyone else, rather than be the uniquely different people God called them to be. God has called you to be different.  -Respond to conflict differently – with love and patience.  -Desire righteousness more than what you can buy on Amazon.  -Honor your leaders, but love God above all.  -Serve others and forgive others God has called you to be different, but like Israel, we often want to… FIT IN AND BE LIKE EVERYONE ELSE.   Tall King Saul God gave the people what they wanted… God hand selected a king that Israel would want… He was tall, good looking, and strong. When Saul was anointed king of Israel the Spirit of the Lord came upon him and he prophesied. (1 Samuel 10:10) All of Israel was thrilled that Saul was their king, but Saul was the people's choice and not actually God's choice. Way back in Genesis 49 there was a prophesy about a King and messiah. Jacob/Israel while in Egypt said this… Genesis 49:10 The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his.  “The Scepter” refers to a king's power. It says that power will belong to the tribe of Judah and that the messiah will come from the same tribe of Judah and be King. Since week 1 we have been talking about the promise of the seed of Eve in Genesis 3:15. This is that same promise now described as a king of Judah. Saul was not from the tribe of Judah, but from the tribe of Benjamin. Saul was the people's choice, but was never God's choice. God's Choice is BETTER If you are popular with people, but unpopular with God… look out!If you are unpopular with people, but popular with God… look up! God can use you. Saul was the people's choice, but not God's choice. Saul disobeys God. God regrets and then God rejects. 1 Samuel 15:11 (NIV) “I regret that I have made Saul king, because he has turned away from me and has not carried out my instructions.”  1 Samuel 15:26 (NIV) “You have rejected the word of the Lord, and the Lord has rejected you as king over Israel!” Even while Saul sits on the throne and wears the crown, he is rejected as king by God. God has already made a choice of who he wants to be king of Israel, and that king is a young boy who is sitting in a field, singing praise to God and shepherding sheep. Shepherds play a big role in the Bible. Other people look past shepherds, but not God. Able – shepherd.The people were of Israel were shepherds and the Egyptians found shepherds “detestable.”(Genesis 46:34)Now God is choosing a shepherd as king…Jesus calls himself a shepherd.

Sermon Notes What sets true followers of Jesus apart? 1 Peter 3:15 NIV But in your hearts, revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, Your story can help change someone's life. Revelation 12:10-11 NIV Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: "Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down. 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." 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." Your TESTIMONY helps defeat the enemy! A Testimony: Part 1: Who you were before God Part 2: Meeting Jesus and Giving your Life to Him Part 3: How the Spirit is making you more like Jesus. Everyone loves a good story. Are you a Christian with a story? Or are you just wearing a shirt that says 'Christian,' but you really haven't given your life to Jesus yet? Be REAL: 1. Relate (by listening) Acts 22:1-2a NIV "Brothers and fathers, listen now to my defense." When they heard him speak to them in Aramaic, they became very quiet. Acts 22:2b-3 NIV Then Paul said: "I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city. I studied under Gamaliel and was thoroughly trained in the law of our ancestors. I was just as zealous for God as any of you are today." Be REAL: Relate (by listening) Encourage Acts 22:3b NIV "…..I was just as zealous for God as any of you are today." Be REAL: 1. Relate (by listening) 2. Encourage 3. Actually Share. 4. Leave it up to God. Acts 22:21-22 NIV "Then the Lord said to me, 'Go; I will send you far away to the Gentiles.' The crowd listened to Paul until he said this. Then they raised their voices and shouted, "Rid the earth of him! He's not fit to live!" Revelation 12:11-12 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. 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." "Salvation means, 'We win!'" – Carl Avery, Salvation Army Pastor We are victorious now, even if we don't see it.

Sermon Notes "Whoever drinks beer, he is quick to sleep; whoever sleeps long, does not sin; whoever does not sin, enters Heaven! Thus, let us drink beer!" ― Martin Luther Luke‬ ‭7‬:‭31‬-‭32‬a ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ ‭‭Jesus went on to say, "To what, then, can I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling out to each other:"‬ Luke‬ ‭7‬:‭32b‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬ "We played the pipe for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not cry." ‭‭‬‬‬‬‬Luke‬ ‭7‬:‭33‬-‭34‬ ‭NIV‬‬ "For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, 'He has a demon.' The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and you say, 'Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.'"‬ What does God's word say about alcohol? Ecclesiastes‬ ‭5‬:‭18‬-‭20‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ This is what I have observed to be good: that it is appropriate for a person to eat, to drink and to find satisfaction in their toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given them—for this is their lot. Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God. They seldom reflect on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart. Ecclesiastes‬ ‭10‬:‭19‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ A feast is made for laughter, wine makes life merry, and money is the answer for everything. Alcohol can be a good gift from our good God and Father. Psalms‬ ‭104‬:‭13‬-‭15‬ ‭NIV He waters the mountains from his upper chambers; the land is satisfied by the fruit of his work. He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate— bringing forth food from the earth: wine that gladdens human hearts, oil to make their faces shine, and bread that sustains their hearts.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Alcohol, for some people, can be a fun way to feast and celebrate momentous days. Deuteronomy‬ ‭14‬:‭22‬-‭26‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year. Eat the tithe of your grain, new wine and olive oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the Lord your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name, so that you may learn to revere the Lord your God always. But if that place is too distant and you have been blessed by the Lord your God and cannot carry your tithe (because the place where the Lord will choose to put his Name is so far away), then exchange your tithe for silver, and take the silver with you and go to the place the Lord your God will choose. Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the Lord your God and rejoice. Alcohol may have some medicinal benefits.‭‭‬‬‬‬‬‬ 1 Timothy‬ ‭5‬:‭23‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses. "The picture is becoming clearer: Even small amounts of alcohol can have health consequences. Research published in November revealed that between 2015 and 2019, excessive alcohol use resulted in roughly 140,000 deaths per year in the United States. About 40 percent of those deaths had acute causes, like car crashes, poisonings and homicides. But the majority were caused by chronic conditions attributed to alcohol, such as liver disease, cancer and heart disease." – NY Times, Even a Little Alcohol Can Harm Your Health "Risk starts to go up well below levels where people would think, 'Oh, that person has an alcohol problem'. Alcohol is harmful to the health starting at very low levels." - Dr. Tim Naimi, Director of the University of Victoria's Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research. Whatever benefits may come from alcohol, strong warnings come also! Proverbs‬ ‭23‬:‭29‬-‭30‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine. Proverbs‬ ‭23‬:‭31‬-‭32‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. Proverbs‬ ‭23‬:‭33‬-‭34‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will imagine confusing things. You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on top of the rigging. Proverbs‬ ‭23‬:‭35‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "They hit me," you will say, "but I'm not hurt! They beat me, but I don't feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?" The Bible warns us of how dangerous and consuming alcohol can be in our lives. 1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit Therefore, no Christian should ever be drunk or have an ongoing problem of drunkenness. Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭19‬-‭21‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 NIV Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. 1 Corinthians 6:11 NIV And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

Win At Home Pt. 5 | May 21, 2023Wes Morris Nehemiah 4:6-14 (CEB) We continued to build the wall. All of it was joined together, and it reached half of its intended height because the people were eager to work. But when the Ammonites heard that the work on the walls was progressing and the gaps were being closed, they were very angry. They plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and stir up trouble.So we prayed to our God and set a guard as protection against them day and night. Meanwhile, our enemies were saying: “Before they know or see anything, we can be in their midst and start to kill them. We'll stop the work!”So I took up a position in the lowest parts of the space behind the wall in an open area. Then I stationed the people by families, and they had their swords, spears, and bows.After reviewing this, I stood up and said to the officials, the officers, and the rest of the people, “Don't be afraid of them! Remember that the Lord is great and awesome! Fight for your families, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses!”√  UNHEALTHY EMOTIONSHebrews 12:15 (TLB) Watch out that no bitterness takes root among you, for as it springs up it causes deep trouble, hurting many in their spiritual lives.√  CONSTANT CONFLICT√  DIVIDED ATTENTIONNehemiah 6:1-3 (NLT) Sanballat and the rest of our enemies found out that I had finished rebuilding the wall, so Sanballat and Geshem sent a message asking me to meet them at one of the villages in the plain of Ono.But I realized they were plotting to harm me, so I replied by sending this message to them: “I am engaged in a great work and I can't come down.FIGHTING FOR YOUR FAMILYI. STAY ALERT.Nehemiah 4:8-9 (NIV) They all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and stir up trouble against it. But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat.I Peter 5:8 (NIV) Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.II. STAY COMMITTED. I Corinthians 13:4-8 (NIV) Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.Current Series Resources: https://baychapel.churchcenter.com/pages/prayerBay Chapel is a life-giving church in the New Tampa community. We meet Sundays at 10:00 am and you are welcome to come anytime in person or online. Find out more at baychapel.com —---Subscribe to receive our latest messages. ——Stay Connected, ask for prayer and find out more.http://www.baychapel.com/connect——Bay Chapel exists to help people ‘Find God and Find Life' through a relationship with Jesus Christ. To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: http://www.baychapel.com/give

Text: Acts 2:42; various Theme: When life seems like it is pulling us in many different directions, we are called to pray continuously. What would it look like if we lived our lives in a manner that is filled with prayer? This week, we are going to talk about just that. Key Verses: Acts 2:42 (NIV) They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Message Notes: https://www.bible.com/en-GB/events/49072780

Text: Acts 2:42; various Theme: We were created to worship. It is an essential part of who we are. The gospel allows us to worship God truly in the light of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. This week we will see how worship is our most fundamental calling. Key Verses: Acts 2:42 (NIV) They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

Text: Acts 2:42; various Theme: We truly believe that life-change and becoming more like Jesus happens best with people around us, helping us, cheering for us, encouraging us. This week we'll look at ways we can develop authentic fellowship as a part of our lives. Key Verses: Acts 2:42 (NIV) They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Message Notes: https://my.bible.com/en-GB/events/49065418

Text: Acts 2:42; various Theme: As the Church was launched, God began to do amazing things through His people. In this series we'll look at a few of the foundational commitments the early church clung to in order to continue to be the kind of a church that could change the world. In week one, we'll focus on the clear direction they received from the Spirit-led teaching of the Apostles. Key Verses: Acts 2:42 (NIV) They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Message Notes: https://my.bible.com/en-GB/events/49061845

Devotional Theme – They TriedScripture reference - Mark 10:32-34 NIV "They were on their way up to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who followed were afraid. Again he took the Twelve aside and told them what was going to happen to him. 33 “We are going up to Jerusalem,” he said, “and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and the teachers of the law. They will condemn him to death and will hand him over to the Gentiles, 34 who will mock him and spit on him, flog him and kill him. Three days later he will rise.”Intro and Outro Song - "We Give Thanks To Thee" by Marlene Jenkins CooperClosing Song - "Just For You and Me" Marlene Jenkins CooperScriptures mentioned in the podcast - Luke 19:46-48, Matthew 2:13, John 12:10&11, Matthew 26: 59, , Isaiah 53:4-5, Mark 10:32-34, Luke 6:1–11, Matthew 27:20, Luke 23: 19 NIV

Psalms 19:11 (NIV) "They are a warning to your servant, a great reward for those who obey them."

“I will make you into a great nation,    and I will bless you;I will make your name great,    and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you,    and whoever curses you I will curse;and all peoples on earth    will be blessed through you.” Genesis 12:2-3 (NIV) They said to each other, “Come, let's make bricks and bake them thoroughly.” They used brick instead of stone, and tar for mortar. Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to […] The post Missions: The Story of the Bible appeared first on Cary Alliance Church.

“I will make you into a great nation,    and I will bless you;I will make your name great,    and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you,    and whoever curses you I will curse;and all peoples on earth    will be blessed through you.” Genesis 12:2-3 (NIV) They said to each other, “Come, let's make bricks and bake them thoroughly.” They used brick instead of stone, and tar for mortar. Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to […]

Sermon Notes Ephesians 3:21 NIV "…to [God] be glory in the church (ekklesia) and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." Our Mission: to become more like Jesus. The Global church is made up of every believer of every people group, language, and nation to the ends of the Earth. "We are Christians only, not the only Christians." The Local church is made up of a group of believers who agree to gather together in a specific location to serve each other and build each other up as we continue to fulfill God's will to the ends of the Earth. Acts‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." - Acts‬ ‭2:42 NIV ‭‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread (the Lord's Supper/Communion) and to prayer." Acts‬ ‭2:43-44 NIV "Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common." Acts‬ ‭2:45-47a NIV "They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people." The early gathering of believers stood out for their generosity. Acts‬ ‭2:47b NIV "...and the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." Acts‬ ‭4‬:‭36‬-‭37‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means 'son of encouragement'), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet." What would it be like to be such a generous giant that your nickname is son or daughter of encouragement? Here at Kingsway, we desire to leverage our gatherings to their utmost potential in bringing people to Christ, building them up in their faith, and sending them out to make a difference in their world. Through Relentless Pursuit, we will: Invest in outreach to the ends of the earth (10% of the total) Through Relentless Pursuit, we will: Reduce our debt (33% of the total) Ephesians 3:20-21 NIV "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." Through Relentless Pursuit, we will: Improve our building and property for maximum Kingdom impact (57%) Phase 1: 1. Research and gather data to assess community needs 2. Launch Daycare Partnership (hopefully by fall 2023) 3. Launch Christian Counseling Center (hopefully by December 2023) 4. Develop a Master Site Plan for the entire Campus www.relentless-pursuit.org to learn more! How do I be a part of Relentless Pursuit? 2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously." 2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." 2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." Prayer Challenge Heavenly Father, continue transforming Kingsway Christian Church into something beautiful. Make me brave to join you in what you are doing in this world and specifically in my church. Reveal to me (and my family) how much we should give to Relentless Pursuit so that this vision will come alive and impact many. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Theme: By way of introduction, this week we're taking our first glimpse at the Holy Spirit. We'll look at some misconceptions as well as begin to discover WHO this really is. Key Verse: Acts 19:2 (NIV) “They answered, ‘No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.'” Message Notes: https://my.bible.com/en-GB/events/49012771

THE PROMISES OF GOD ARE FAITH-FILLED ARROWS TO PIERCE THROUGH YOUR CURRENT REALITYGenesis 43:15–18 (NIV): 15 ... They hurried down to Egypt and presented themselves to Joseph. 16 When Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the steward of his house, “Take these men to my house, slaughter an animal and prepare a meal; they are to eat with me at noon.” 17 The man did as Joseph told him and took the men to Joseph's house. 18 Now the men were frightened when they were taken to his house. They thought, “We were brought here because of the silver that was put back into our sacks the first time. He wants to attack us and overpower us and seize us as slaves and take our donkeys.” THEY THOUGHT: Genesis 43:18 (NIV): They thought, “We were brought here because of the silver that was put back into our sacks the first time. He wants to attack us and overpower us and seize us as slaves and take our donkeys.”GOD THOUGHT: Genesis 43:16 (NIV): When Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the steward of his house, “Take these men to my house, slaughter an animal and prepare a meal; they are to eat with me at noon.”THEY THOUGHT: Genesis 43:18 (NIV):18 Now the men were frightened when they were taken to his house. They thought, “We were brought here because of the silver that was put back into our sacks the first time. He wants to attack us and overpower us and seize us as slaves and take our donkeys.” GOD THROUGH JOSEPH THOUGHT: “Take these men to my house, slaughter an animal and prepare a meal; they are to eat with me at noon.”Luke 15:22–24 (NIV): 22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate. 2 Corinthians 105 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 ChristFor though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 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. 6 And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, once your obedience is complete.SO WHAT DO YOU DO ….. LEARN, KNOW AND STAND ON GOD'S PROMISES Psalm 16:8–108 I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. 9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, 10 because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.DISCIPLE YOURSELF WITH YOUR THOUGHTS MAKE A STAND AGAINST FEAR! 1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.Psalm 16:88 I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

THE PROMISES OF GOD ARE FAITH-FILLED ARROWS TO PIERCE THROUGH YOUR CURRENT REALITYGenesis 43:15–18 (NIV): 15 ... They hurried down to Egypt and presented themselves to Joseph. 16 When Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the steward of his house, “Take these men to my house, slaughter an animal and prepare a meal; they are to eat with me at noon.” 17 The man did as Joseph told him and took the men to Joseph's house. 18 Now the men were frightened when they were taken to his house. They thought, “We were brought here because of the silver that was put back into our sacks the first time. He wants to attack us and overpower us and seize us as slaves and take our donkeys.” THEY THOUGHT: Genesis 43:18 (NIV): They thought, “We were brought here because of the silver that was put back into our sacks the first time. He wants to attack us and overpower us and seize us as slaves and take our donkeys.”GOD THOUGHT: Genesis 43:16 (NIV): When Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the steward of his house, “Take these men to my house, slaughter an animal and prepare a meal; they are to eat with me at noon.”THEY THOUGHT: Genesis 43:18 (NIV):18 Now the men were frightened when they were taken to his house. They thought, “We were brought here because of the silver that was put back into our sacks the first time. He wants to attack us and overpower us and seize us as slaves and take our donkeys.” GOD THROUGH JOSEPH THOUGHT: “Take these men to my house, slaughter an animal and prepare a meal; they are to eat with me at noon.”Luke 15:22–24 (NIV): 22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate. 2 Corinthians 105 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 ChristFor though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 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. 6 And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, once your obedience is complete.SO WHAT DO YOU DO ….. LEARN, KNOW AND STAND ON GOD'S PROMISES Psalm 16:8–108 I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. 9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, 10 because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.DISCIPLE YOURSELF WITH YOUR THOUGHTS MAKE A STAND AGAINST FEAR! 1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.Psalm 16:88 I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

Sermon Notes Is there a way to get justice without getting revenge? Genesis‬ ‭42‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Now Joseph was the governor of the land, the person who sold grain to all its people. So when Joseph's brothers arrived, they bowed down to him with their faces to the ground. As soon as Joseph saw his brothers, he recognized them, but he pretended to be a stranger and spoke harshly to them. 'Where do you come from?' he asked. 'From the land of Canaan,' they replied, 'to buy food.'" Genesis‬ ‭42‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Although Joseph recognized his brothers, they did not recognize him. Then he remembered his dreams about them and said to them, 'You are spies! You have come to see where our land is unprotected.'" This is a test moment, and Joseph has the choice to exact revenge or show mercy. Genesis‬ ‭42‬:‭21‬-‭22‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬ "They said to one another, 'Surely we are being punished because of our brother. We saw how distressed he was when he pleaded with us for his life, but we would not listen; that's why this distress has come on us.' Reuben replied, 'Didn't I tell you not to sin against the boy? But you wouldn't listen! Now we must give an accounting for his blood.'" Does this confession equal repentance? 2 Corinthians‬ ‭7‬:‭10‬ ‭NIV "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death."‬‬‬‬‬ "The idea that sin is grievous to God also has profound practical implications for people who want to change their lives and habits. If you say, "I must stop doing this thing because it will get me into trouble," then you are not really sorry for the sin itself but for the consequences or results of the sin. You are not sorry primarily because it grieved God but because it grieved you or others. This means that as soon as your sinful habit stops causing trouble for you, you will stop causing trouble to it. But if you recognize and feel poignantly what your sin is doing to God, you will have a deeper and more permanent motivation to turn away from the sin itself." - Timothy Keller, Forgive: Why Should I and How Can I? Can I show mercy, even if I'm not sure if it's Godly sorrow or worldly sorrow? Genesis‬ ‭42‬:‭24‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬ "He turned away from them and began to weep but then came back and spoke to them again. He had Simeon taken from them and bound before their eyes." ‭‭Genesis‬ ‭43‬:‭30‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Deeply moved at the sight of his brother, Joseph hurried out and looked for a place to weep. He went into his private room and wept there." Genesis‬ ‭45‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Then Joseph could no longer control himself before all his attendants, and he cried out, 'Have everyone leave my presence!' So there was no one with Joseph when he made himself known to his brothers. And he wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him, and Pharaoh's household heard about it." Joseph reveals God's heart for complete forgiveness. Luke‬ ‭23‬:‭32‬-‭34‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.' And they divided up his clothes by casting lots." Matthew 18:21-22 NIV "Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, 'Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?' Jesus answered, 'I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'" Genesis‬ ‭45‬:‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬ "Joseph said to his brothers, 'I am Joseph! Is my father still living?' But his brothers were not able to answer him because they were terrified at his presence." Genesis‬ ‭45‬:‭4‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬ "Then Joseph said to his brothers, "Come close to me." When they had done so, he said, "I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt!" Genesis‬ ‭45‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬ "And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you." Genesis‬ ‭45‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬ "For two years now, there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years, there will be no plowing and reaping." Genesis‬ ‭45‬:‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬ "But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance." Genesis‬ ‭45‬:‭8‬, 11‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬ "So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God. He made me father to Pharaoh, Lord of his entire household, and ruler of all Egypt. I will provide for you there because five years of famine are still to come. Otherwise, you and your household and all who belong to you will become destitute." Genesis‬ ‭45‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Then he threw his arms around his brother Benjamin and wept, and Benjamin embraced him, weeping. And he kissed all his brothers and wept over them. Afterward, his brothers talked with him." Genesis‬ ‭45‬:‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬ "and bring your father and your families back to me. I will give you the best of the land of Egypt, and you can enjoy the fat of the land." "The Hebrew word used is nasah, one with the sense of sending sin away so that the forgiver no longer counts it against the perpetrator. While Joseph does not say, literally, "I forgive you," he nevertheless responds by rejecting vengeance, and pledges love to them—a crucial element in forgiveness." - Timothy Keller, Forgive: Why Should I and How Can I? True forgiveness comes as a "pay-it-forward" experience. Matthew‬ ‭18‬:‭32‬-‭35‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬ "Then the master called the servant in. 'You wicked servant,' he said, 'I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?' In anger, his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured until he should pay back all he owed. 'This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.'" "Forgiveness gets down to the bottom of things—to the alienation we feel from God and from ourselves because of our wrongdoing. Jesus was saying: 'I want to show you that the deepest need of your nature is for me. Only I can bestow perfect love, new identity, endless comfort, hope, and glory. And the doorway into all of that is to know forgiveness. It's time to open that door and walk through it.'" - Timothy Keller, Forgive: Why Should I and How Can I?

BE MY WITNESSES ACTS 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Luke 24:45 45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” Matthew 28:19 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 Mark 16:15 And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. YOUR SALVATION IS A WITNESS Romans 1:16 (NIV) For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 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. Revelation 6:9 (NIV) When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. CHALLENGE: SHARE YOUR SALVATION STORY! YOUR BAPTISM IS A WITNESS Matthew 3:16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. Suddenly the heavens were opened, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and resting on Him. Matthew 28:19 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 CHALLENGE: HAVE I BEEN BAPTIZED? YES OR NO! SIGN UP: NEXTSTEPSATFUSION 94000 3. YOUR STORY IS A WITNESS ACTS 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” A) SHARE YOUR STORY B) TRUST THE HOLY SPIRIT C) YOU ARE NOT PERFECT, BUT BEING PERFECTED APPLICATION: WHAT IS YOUR BEST NEXT STEP THIS WEEK? WHAT IS THE HOLY SPIRIT SAYING TO YOU? JOIN US IN PRAYING FOR ALL GOD WILL DO AT FRIENDS AND FAMILY!