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What would your life look like if you lived an authentic Christian life? Notes: 1. Living an authentic Christian life isn't about perfection—it's about transformation. o Romans 12:1-2 (NKJV) 2. Transformed – metamorphoo' = change, transfigure, transform 3. What Would My Job Look Like? o Colossians 3:23 (NKJV) 4. Imagine: Purpose beyond a paycheck. A missionary mindset in the marketplace (No griping or complaining). 5. What Would My Friendships Look Like? o Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV) 6. Imagine: Speaking truth in love. Praying for friends, not gossiping. Building each other up. 7. What Would My Family Look Like? o Joshua 24:15c (NKJV) “…As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” 8. Imagine: A home shaped by the Word, not the world. Peace, not pressure. Everything in the family is Christ-centered (No griping or complaining). 9. What Would My Spiritual Life Look Like, Empowered by the Holy Ghost? o Acts 1:8 (NKJV) 10. Imagine: A prayer life that isn't dry but dynamic, (No Griping or Complaining) 11. Quote: "The Christian life isn't difficult—it's impossible without the Holy Spirit." 12. What Would My Church Look Like? o Acts 2:42 (NKJV) o Acts 2:47 (NKJV) 13. Imagine: A people known for love, not division. Every member engaged. The church as a movement, not a meeting. (No griping or complaining). 14. What if you stopped asking "What do I want?" and started asking, "What would Jesus want in this area of my life?" Need Prayer? Send your prayer requests to: journeychurcheva.com/prayer To give to Journey: journeychurcheva.com/give
Sermons Archive RSS John 15:16 NKJV You did not choose Me, but I chose you Acts 17:24-27 "The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth . . . he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else . . . he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live.” Paul continues, “God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us." Isaiah 55:6 NKJV Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. Psalms 14:2 NKJV The Lord looks down from heaven upon the children of men, To see if there are any who understand, who seek God. Romans 3:10-11 NKJV As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one; There is none who understands; There is none who seeks after God. Genesis 28:16 NKJV “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.” Psalms 63:1-4 NKJV O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You In a dry and thirsty land Where there is no water. So I have looked for You in the sanctuary, To see Your power and Your glory. Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips shall praise You. Thus I will bless You while I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name. Jeremiah 29:13 NKJV And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:10 NKJV "I will visit you" John 3:16-17 NKJV For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. Psalms 27:4 NKJV One thing I have desired of the Lord, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the Lord, And to inquire in His temple. Psalms 105:3 NKJV Glory in His holy name; Let the hearts of those rejoice who seek the Lord! Matthew 7:7-8 NKJV “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Romans 3:23 NKJV "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," Luke 5:31-32 NKJV Jesus answered and said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” I Timothy 1:15 NKJV "This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief." II Corinthians 5:21 NKJV For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. I Peter 3:18 NKJV For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, Romans 4:25 NKJV who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification. John 20:21 NKJV So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” Revelation 3:20 NKJV Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. Sermon Discussion Questions:What does Zacchaeus's story teach us about faith, repentance, and transformation? What does the story say about how we can experience salvation? What are some examples of how we might "seek and save the lost" in our own lives? What are some examples of how God's grace has impacted our own lives? How does this story challenge our understanding of social status and worth?
rwh10may Ep.363 – Run With Horses Podcast – A Growth Mindset for Disciple Makers Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Author pages with links to all books on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith 1. The Growth Mindset in a Christian Context Paul challenged believers to put effort into their spiritual life. Change is a part of growth and we should desire to be more like Jesus. A Christian is filled with the Holy Spirit who is working to make us like Jesus. Change will happen. The joy is that we can embrace it and benefit from working with God instead of against Him. A growth-minded believer: Welcomes challenges as opportunities for sanctification (James 1:2–4 NKJV). Perseveres under trial, knowing endurance produces spiritual maturity (Romans 5:3–5 NKJV). Seeks feedback and correction, recognizing rebuke refines faith (Proverbs 27:17 NKJV; Proverbs 12:1 NKJV). Celebrates others' growth, rejoicing when fellow believers flourish (Romans 12:15 NKJV). 2. Discipleship and the Great Commission Jesus' charge to “make disciples” frames our growth-oriented calling: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” —Matthew 28:19–20 (NKJV) A growth mindset fuels the “teaching” phase: we believe learners can grow in knowledge, obedience, and Christ-likeness. It also shapes our own approach, as we accept that our skills in evangelism, teaching, and mentoring improve through practice, prayer, and reliance on God. 3. Spiritual Growth is a Process Scripture depicts growth as a journey: “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” —2 Peter 3:18 (NKJV) “Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection…” —Hebrews 6:1 (NKJV) “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 3:14 (NKJV) These passages underscore that maturity takes intentional effort—exactly the outworking of a growth mindset in the spiritual realm. 4. The “One Another's” and Growth Mindset Command Scripture (NKJV) Growth-Mindset Connection Love one another John 13:34–35 Encourages perseverance in relationships even when hard. Serve one another Galatians 5:13 Builds humility and stewards gifts for others' growth. Encourage one another 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Puts others first. Admonish one another Colossians 3:16; Romans 15:14 Welcomes correction for mutual sanctification. Bear one another's burdens Galatians 6:2 Cultivates perseverance and compassion. Spur one another on Hebrews 10:24 Motivates toward good deeds and spiritual progress. Pray for one another James 5:16 Invites God's transforming power in growth. Be kind and tenderhearted Ephesians 4:32 Gives mercy to those who need it, we all do! Together, these “one another's” form the relational soil in which a growth mindset flourishes—each believer both a learner and a teacher, giving and receiving grace, correction, encouragement, and accountability. 5. Practical Implications for Disciple Makers Model a growth mindset by sharing your own struggles and progress in Bible study, prayer, or ministry skills. Set incremental goals for disciples (e.g., memorizing Scripture, leading a small group), celebrating small wins to build confidence (Zechariah 4:10 NKJV). Cultivate “one another” rhythms in your church—regular accountability groups, prayer partnerships, and service teams. Teach the biblical process of growth—explain that sanctification involves trials, correction, and perseverance, rooted in passages like James 1:2–4 (NKJV) and Hebrews 12:11 (NKJV). Encourage reflection—have disciples journal progress, confess weaknesses, and plan next steps, reinforcing that effort and dependence on Christ yield transformation. **(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2** The Holy Spirit reshapes how we think about challenges, our own abilities, and the process of sanctification. 1. Confess Fixed-Mindset Thinking and Renew Your Mind “I can't change,” “I can't do that.” and the like are big hinderances to spiritual growth. Lies need to be brought into the light and exchanged for truth. The question should be, “What is God doing? What does HE want me to do?” God empowers His people for His work. “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” —Romans 12:2 (NKJV) Practice: Keep a “mindset journal.” When you catch yourself thinking “I'll never grow in this,” write it down and pray: “Lord, show me Your truth here.” Replace it with a Scriptural affirmation (“I can grow by God's grace”—Philippians 4:13). 2. Meditate on God's Word Daily A growth mindset flourishes when immersed in truth. Scripture both reveals God's power to change us and gives the roadmap. Read, Think Deeply about,and put it into practice. “…but his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night.” —Psalm 1:2 (NKJV) Practice: Start with 5–10 minutes each morning reading a short passage (e.g. one chapter of Proverbs or the Gospels). Ask: “What does this teach me about God's promise to strengthen me?” 3. Pray for Wisdom and Perseverance Growth requires divine enablement—both insight and the grit to keep going. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally…” —James 1:5 (NKJV) “Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” —James 1:2–3 (NKJV) Practice: Begin each day by asking God for wisdom to see opportunities for growth and the patience to endure them. When trials come (at work, in relationships, in ministry), thank Him for the refining work He intends. 4. Engage in Christian Community Even if attendance has been spotty, intentional fellowship is vital for encouragement, accountability, and skill development. “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another…” —Hebrews 10:24–25 (NKJV) “As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” —Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV) Practice: Commit to attending at least one fellowship gathering (Sunday service, small group, men's/women's Bible study). Ask a mature believer to meet monthly as a “growth partner” for prayer and feedback. 5. Set Small, Measurable Goals for Spiritual Disciplines SMART goals Growth rarely happens overnight. Incremental victories build confidence that God can grow you further. “For who has despised the day of small things?…” —Zechariah 4:10 (NKJV) Practice: Choose one discipline (e.g., Scripture memory, daily prayer journaling, service) and set a tiny goal: memorize one verse a week, pray five minutes daily, serve once a month. Celebrate each completion by recording it in your journal and thanking God. 6. Welcome Correction and Feedback A growth mindset leans into rebuke, knowing it produces maturity. “The ear that hears the rebukes of life Will abide among the wise.” —Proverbs 15:31 (NKJV) “But exhort one another daily, while it is called ‘Today,' lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” —Hebrews 3:13 (NKJV) Practice: Invite a trusted mentor or friend to give you honest feedback on your spiritual habits. When you receive correction, respond with “Thank you—help me understand how to improve.” 7. Practice Gratitude and Celebrate Others' Growth Focusing on progress—both yours and others'—reinforces a mindset that abilities can expand. “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” —Romans 12:15 (NKJV) “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” —1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV) Practice: Keep a “gratitude list” of spiritual wins you see in yourself and others. Send a quick note or text to encourage a fellow believer when they share a breakthrough. 8. Rely on God's Strength in Weakness A growth mindset isn't self-reliance; it's dependence on Christ, who is at work in us. “…when I am weak, then I am strong.” —2 Corinthians 12:10 (NKJV) Practice: In moments of discouragement (“I failed again…”), confess your weakness and ask Christ to work through it. Memorize 2 Corinthians 12:9–10 and speak it aloud whenever you feel stuck. **(5:00 – 1:00)** Doctrine Today Jesus and His Present Ministry The Holy Spirit's Role in Disciple Making. Dispensational Baptist view of the End Times Understanding Theology is Important The Gospel and Ongoing Disciple Making Church Role in Discerning God's Will Barriers to Disciple Making Spiritual Warfare Jesus – Incarnation God's Sovereignty God's sovereignty means that God reigns over all things with perfect wisdom, power, and love, and nothing in our lives is outside His control. 1. God's Sovereignty Brings Peace in Uncertainty When life feels chaotic or unjust, God's sovereignty assures us that nothing happens apart from His knowledge or plan. “The Lord has established His throne in heaven, And His kingdom rules over all.” —Psalm 103:19 (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.” —Romans 8:28 (NKJV) Why it matters: Even suffering and confusion have purpose under God's rule. He's not reacting—He's reigning. 2. God's Sovereignty Fuels Evangelism and Disciple-Making Because God is sovereign over salvation, we can evangelize boldly, knowing He draws hearts to Himself. “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.” —John 6:37 (NKJV) “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him…” —John 6:44 (NKJV) Why it matters: The results of disciple-making aren't on your shoulders. You sow and water; God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6–7 NKJV). 3. God's Sovereignty Grounds Our Identity and Purpose You are not random. You are created, saved, and called intentionally. “Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them.” —Psalm 139:16 (NKJV) “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” —Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV) Why it matters: Your life, your calling, and even your challenges are part of God's good and sovereign plan. 4. God's Sovereignty Produces Worship and Humility When we recognize God is in control and we are not, we bow in awe and dependence. “Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, The power and the glory, The victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours; Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, And You are exalted as head over all.” —1 Chronicles 29:11 (NKJV) “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. —Isaiah 55:8 (NKJV) Why it matters: Sovereignty reminds us that God is God—and we are not. 5. God's Sovereignty Guarantees His Promises Will Stand We can believe God's Word with full assurance because no power can thwart His will. “Indeed before the day was, I am He; And there is no one who can deliver out of My hand; I work, and who will reverse it?” —Isaiah 43:13 (NKJV) “The counsel of the Lord stands forever, The plans of His heart to all generations.” —Psalm 33:11 (NKJV) Why it matters: Our eternal hope is secure because it rests in God's unshakable rule. **(1:00)** It's important for all of us to see the big picture in life. God IS working and He WILL complete His work in you. Daily remind yourself that God is drawing you to Himself and He invites you to be an active participant in your spiritual growth. Reject the lie that you can't change. See the person God wants you to be and put real effort into doing your part, trusting that God will always do His part. – “Thank you for listening today! -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Don't be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running." **(00:00)**
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14-16 NKJV) As believers, we're called to live fully in that light protecting it, growing it, and letting it shine so brightly that it becomes a floodlight for the world around us. Before light comes, there is darkness -- but through salvation, the light of Christ invades the darkness and transforms us from the inside out. So how do we protect the light? And how do we let it radiate from the inside of us?
rwh12april Ep.359 – Run With Horses Podcast – How's Your Self-Discipline? Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Author pages with links to all books on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith **(24:00)** Following Jesus was never meant to be easy. Self-discipline is a key component of a Christian's walk with Christ, especially for those who are striving to be obedient to His call to be disciple makers. Self-discipline - today we look at what it is and what it matters. Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It's very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you're new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” **(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1 Biblical theology, emphasizes holiness, and sanctification. Self-discipline is an essential piece of the puzzle for growing your faith, honoring God, and becoming more like Christ. 1. Self-Discipline is Essential for Spiritual Growth The Bible teaches that following Jesus involves ongoing transformation. Self-discipline enables a Christian to maintain focus on spiritual growth and maturity. This growth is not passive; it requires intentional effort to discipline oneself in the faith. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NKJV): “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.” In this passage, Paul emphasizes the importance of self-discipline in the Christian life. Like an athlete training for a race, the believer must discipline their body and actions to ensure they live a life pleasing to God. This passage also highlights that discipline is necessary for not only spiritual progress but also for preventing spiritual failure. 2. Self-Discipline in Fleeing Sin and Pursuing Holiness Self-discipline is crucial for resisting temptation and living a holy life. Christians are called to reject sin and live in a way that honors God, and this requires discipline in thoughts, words, and actions. 1 Timothy 4:7-8 (NKJV): “But reject profane and old wives' fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.” Paul urges Timothy to “exercise” toward godliness, which speaks to the discipline of growing in spiritual maturity. This is contrasted with physical exercise, which has limited benefits, while spiritual discipline has eternal value. Titus 2:11-12 (NKJV): “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age.” The grace of God teaches the believer to deny sinful desires and live disciplined lives, demonstrating the power of grace in enabling self-control. 3. Self-Discipline in the Use of Time and Resources Christians are called to be stewards of their time, talents, and resources. Practicing self-discipline helps them use these gifts in a way that honors God and furthers His kingdom. Ephesians 5:15-16 (NKJV): “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” This passage speaks to the importance of using time wisely. Self-discipline involves making choices that align with God's will, ensuring that the believer is living for eternal purposes rather than temporary desires. 4. Self-Discipline in Prayer and Bible Study A disciplined prayer life and consistent study of Scripture are vital for growth in the faith. Christians must intentionally set aside time to communicate with God and immerse themselves in His Word. Matthew 26:41 (NKJV): “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Jesus speaks to the importance of watchfulness and prayer to avoid falling into temptation. Self-discipline in maintaining a life of prayer is necessary for strength against sin. 2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJV): “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” This emphasizes the discipline required in studying Scripture. A believer who wants to rightly divide the Word must be diligent and disciplined in their study. 5. Self-Discipline in Following Jesus' Example Lastly, the ultimate example of self-discipline is Jesus Himself. He lived a life of perfect self-discipline, obeying the Father's will even to the point of death on the cross. Luke 9:23 (NKJV): “Then He said to them all, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.'” To follow Jesus is to practice daily self-discipline, denying one's own desires and submitting to the will of God. Conclusion For anyone who is striving to follow Jesus, self-discipline is not merely about willpower, but it is a response to God's grace and a necessary aspect of sanctification. It requires a commitment to spiritual practices, a resistance to temptation, and an ongoing pursuit of holiness. Through self-discipline, believers not only grow in Christ-likeness but also glorify God in all aspects of their lives. Self-discipline is both a duty and a privilege, empowered by the Holy Spirit and essential to the believer's walk with Christ. It is through discipline that Christians can live according to God's Word and fulfill their calling to be holy and set apart for His purposes. **(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2** Developing self-discipline as a follower of Jesus requires intentional effort and commitment. A commitment to the spiritual disciplines can be a big part of the process of growing as a follower of Jesus. These disciplines are practices that help a believer grow in their relationship with God, resist temptation, and align their lives more closely with His will. In the context of following Jesus, self-discipline is rooted in God's grace but also requires the active participation of the believer in cultivating habits that foster spiritual growth. The spiritual disciplines are habits that help us keep our focus. Prayer, Bible reading, meditation and study Silence, Solitude, Community, Fasting. These are habits that help you build a strong spiritual life. We have talked about them before and will come back to them again but for now, Know that studying and practicing the spiritual disciplines should be a part of your spiritual life. Developing personal self-discipline is a key aspect of spiritual growth and daily life, especially for a Christian who is striving to follow Jesus. While spiritual disciplines like prayer, Bible study, and worship are vital, personal self-discipline in everyday activities also plays a significant role in the overall process. Here are practical steps that can help someone develop or increase their personal self-discipline: 1. Set Clear Goals and Priorities Having clear goals allows you to stay focused and motivated. Self-discipline thrives when you have a sense of purpose. Start by determining what is most important to you, both in your spiritual life and personal life. Actionable Step: Write down your goals—spiritual, personal, and professional—and prioritize them. Break them down into smaller, achievable tasks. For example, if your goal is to read through the Bible in a year, break it into daily reading plans. 2. Create a Routine or Schedule A structured routine helps build self-discipline because it instills consistency. When you have a set schedule, you're less likely to be distracted by fleeting desires or emotions. Actionable Step: Create a daily or weekly schedule that includes time for prayer, Bible study, work, exercise, meals, and sleep. Setting fixed times for these activities helps cultivate habits and limits procrastination. NEXT ACTION. DO IT. Proverbs 12:1 (NKJV): “Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, But he who hates correction is stupid.” A disciplined schedule allows you to grow in knowledge and wisdom, as it gives you time to learn and apply godly principles. 3. Develop Healthy Habits Small, healthy habits can lead to big changes. Good habits can gradually transform your life and build the foundation for self-discipline. These habits can include morning routines, exercise, and eating habits. Whole Life stewardship requires WHOLE LIFE DISCIPLINE. Actionable Step: Start by adopting one healthy habit at a time, such as drinking water in the morning, avoiding social media first thing, or exercising regularly. Focus on consistency, and gradually build other habits on top of that. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NKJV): “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.” Taking care of your body through healthy habits is a way to honor God and develop discipline. 4. Practice Accountability Accountability is a powerful tool in developing self-discipline. When you know someone is holding you accountable, it increases your motivation and helps you stay on track. You aren't in this alone. Actionable Step: Find an accountability partner or a group that shares your spiritual goals. This could be a prayer partner, a mentor, or a small group from your church. Regular check-ins and mutual encouragement can strengthen your resolve. Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV): “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” Accountability helps keep you on the path of discipline and encourages you to grow together with others. 5. Learn to Say No Self-discipline often involves making hard choices and learning to say no to things that are not aligned with your goals or that hinder your progress. This applies to both time management and spiritual focus. You must be clear on God's calling for you life and let nothing hinder your pursuit of Him and His mission. Actionable Step: Practice saying no to distractions, whether it's binge-watching TV, spending excessive time on social media, or even good things that might prevent you from focusing on what matters most, like spending time with God or with family. Matthew 5:37 (NKJV): “But let your ‘Yes' be ‘Yes,' and your ‘No,' ‘No.' For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.” Learning to say no when necessary is part of being disciplined, especially when it comes to guarding your time and energy. 6. Eliminate Distractions Distractions are one of the biggest barriers to self-discipline. It's difficult to stay focused when you're surrounded by temptations or interruptions. By intentionally reducing distractions, you can stay on task and make better use of your time. Remember Mary and Martha. There is one thing you need. Actionable Step: Identify areas of your life where you tend to get distracted—such as your phone, the internet, or unproductive relationships—and take steps to minimize those distractions. For instance, you could put your phone in another room while reading your Bible or studying. Matthew 6:6 (NKJV): “But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.” Finding a quiet, distraction-free space for prayer or study is essential in maintaining self-discipline. 7. Take Breaks and Rest Self-discipline doesn't mean working yourself to exhaustion. Taking breaks is important for mental and physical well-being. Rest allows you to recharge and maintain focus over time. Actionable Step: Schedule regular breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. Ensure that you also take time off from work and other obligations to rest, whether it's a weekly Sabbath, a day off, or short breaks during the day. Exodus 20:8-10 (NKJV): “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work...” Resting is essential for spiritual, emotional, and physical renewal, and it's a discipline that promotes a balanced life. 8. Practice Self-Control in Small Things Building self-discipline in small areas of life can create a ripple effect that leads to greater self-control in bigger things. Start with simple acts of self-restraint, and work up to more challenging areas. Actionable Step: Practice self-control by limiting small indulgences, such as sweets, caffeine, or unnecessary spending. This builds the muscle of self-discipline, which will help in more significant areas like temptation or long-term goals. Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV): “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit that grows as we practice it in daily life. 9. Celebrate Small Wins It's easy to become discouraged if you're only focused on long-term results. Acknowledge and celebrate small victories along the way to stay motivated. Actionable Step: When you accomplish a goal or stick to a discipline for a certain period, reward yourself with something meaningful—whether it's a small treat, a break, or a time of reflection and gratitude. 1 Corinthians 9:24 (NKJV): “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.” Recognizing progress along the way encourages perseverance and motivates you to continue toward your final goal. 10. Seek God's Help and Grace Ultimately, self-discipline is not about relying solely on your strength, but on God's grace. Ask the Lord to help you develop discipline, giving you the strength to overcome weaknesses and the wisdom to prioritize what matters most. Philippians 4:13 (NKJV): “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Depend on God's strength to help you grow in discipline, especially when things seem too difficult. Conclusion: Developing self-discipline is a process that requires intentional action and reliance on God's grace. By setting clear goals, creating a structured routine, developing healthy habits, and seeking accountability, you can grow in self-discipline and make progress in your personal and spiritual life. Keep focusing on small, practical steps while relying on God's strength and guidance through it all. **(5:00 – 1:00)** Doctrine Today Church Role in Discerning God's Will **(1:00)** How are you doing at keeping those hard tasks on your schedule? Doing the right thing is seldom easy and it often takes more effort that we would like. But it is worth it do be disciplined and maintain our focus. When you fail, start over, persistence is a big part of discipline! – “Thank you for listening today! -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. May we all be found faithful, ready, and living for eternity. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running." **(00:00)**
24_01_25 -Ep.348 – Run With Horses Podcast – Spiritual Disciplines - Fellowship Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Author pages with links to all books on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith — **(28:00)** Today we continue our survey of the spiritual disciplines. Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It's very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you're new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” **(27:00 – 23:00)** Caregivers Corner Stages of Spiritual Growth – Questions to Ponder Young Adult and Parent **(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1 Solitude, silence, fasting, simplicity, meditation, Study, worship, prayer, fellowship, service. Fellowship As A Spiritual Discipline Introduction Fellowship : a deep, spiritual, and relational bond among believers in Christ, united through the Holy Spirit. Fellowship is often undervalued as a spiritual discipline but it is essential for Christian growth, accountability, and encouragement. Hebrews 10:24-25 - 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. 1: Biblical Foundation of Fellowship 1.1. Fellowship in the Early Church Acts 2:42-47 (NKJV) "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved." Fellowship was not just social but an intentional, spiritual practice. Community: teaching, breaking bread, prayer, and sharing in each other's needs. 1.2. Theological Importance of Fellowship 1 John 1:3 (NKJV) "That which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ." Fellowship with one another is rooted in our fellowship with God the Father and Jesus Christ. It's not just about socializing; it's about participation in the life of God through Christ. 2: Fellowship as a Spiritual Discipline 2.1. The Role of Fellowship in Christian Growth Hebrews 10:24-25 (NKJV) "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." Fellowship is a necessary part of Christian life because it encourages us to love one another and perform good works. Regular gathering in worship and fellowship for mutual encouragement. 2.2. Fellowship as Encouragement and Accountability Galatians 6:1-2 (NKJV) "Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Fellowship involves mutual care, helping each other through struggles, and bearing one another's burdens. 3: Fellowship and the Importance of Community for Spiritual Growth 3.1. Using Spiritual Gifts Within the Community 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 (NKJV) "There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all." Fellowship involves the active use of spiritual gifts to build up the body of Christ. Not isolating one's spiritual gifts but using them in the context of community for the mutual edification of all believers. 3.2. Living Out the "One Anothers" of the New Testament Romans 12:10 (NKJV) "Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another." Galatians 5:13 (NKJV) "For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another." Ephesians 4:2-3 (NKJV) "With all lowliness and gentleness, with long-suffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." Colossians 3:13 (NKJV) "Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do." We all have a call to "one another" living: love one another, serve one another, bear with one another, and forgive one another. These relational commands can only truly be lived out within the community of believers. Fellowship, in community, is where we practice these commands. 3.3. The Community and Spiritual Growth Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV) "As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend." Fellowship in community provides the context for mutual sharpening and growth. Accountability, prayer, correction, and encouragement are critical in the spiritual formation of every body of believers. 4: Practical Ways to Cultivate Fellowship 4.1. Intentional Relationships Romans 12:10 (NKJV) "Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another." Because we are all so busy, making fellowship a priority is important, creating opportunities for one-on-one and group connection. 4.2. The Role of Shared Meals and Hospitality Acts 2:46 (NKJV) "So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart." Fellowship is deeply connected to shared meals and hospitality in the early church. What are practical ways this could be applied today? 4.3. Prayer and Spiritual Conversations Matthew 18:20 (NKJV) "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them." Prayer meetings, small groups, and discussing Scripture are ways to cultivate deeper fellowship. 5: The Power of Fellowship for Mission 5.1. Evangelism Through Fellowship John 13:34-35 (NKJV) "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another." Fellowship serves as a witness to the world of God's love, drawing others into the faith through the community of believers. Our relationship with each other draws others in. 5.2. The Global Fellowship of Believers Philippians 1:5 (NKJV) "For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now." Fellowship is not just a local practice but a global reality for the church as a whole. Christians are united in the mission of spreading the gospel. Conclusion Summarize: importance of fellowship as a spiritual discipline, its role in spiritual growth, and its impact on mission. How are your fellowship practices and how can you deepen your relationships with fellow believers. Make fellowship an intentional part of your Christian walk, both in personal relationships and in the broader church community. **(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2** **(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2** **(5:00 – 1:00)** The Mission of the Church The mission is rooted in the Great Commission, the call to make disciples of all nations, as well as the call to love, serve, and witness to our communities. The Great Commission The local church is primarily tasked with evangelizing and making disciples. Jesus gave this clear command in Matthew 28:19-20: "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen." (Matthew 28:19-20, NKJV) This mission to go and make disciples is not just for individual Christians but for the collective body of Christ, the church. Every church, whether large or small, is called to be part of this global mission to spread the gospel. The Church as a Witness The local church also serves as a witness of God's love, truth, and holiness to the world. Jesus said in Acts 1:8: "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (Acts 1:8, NKJV) The local church's mission extends beyond its walls. It is called to bear witness to Christ, not just in its immediate community (Jerusalem), but also to the surrounding areas (Judea and Samaria), and even to the ends of the earth. This requires both local outreach and global mission efforts. The Church as a People of Fellowship and Discipleship A central aspect of the local church's mission is fostering a community where believers can grow in their faith. In Acts 2:42, we see the early church's commitment to fellowship and discipleship: "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42, NKJV) Through teaching, fellowship, communion, and prayer, the church strengthens its members to live out their faith and equip them to serve in the mission of Christ. A local church is a place where Christians come together to grow deeper in their relationship with God and each other. The Church as a People of Service The local church is also called to serve both its members and the surrounding community. In Galatians 6:10, Paul encourages the church to actively do good: "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith." (Galatians 6:10, NKJV) This service is a practical outworking of the love of Christ. It involves caring for the needy, providing for the poor, and supporting those who are suffering. Serving within the church and in the wider community is part of the mission to represent Christ and His love in tangible ways. Conclusion To sum it up, the local church has a clear and vital mission: to make disciples, to be witnesses of Christ, to foster fellowship and discipleship among believers, and to serve those in need. This mission is not just about activities; it's about living out the gospel in every area of life. As we seek to fulfill this mission, we can be confident that Christ is with us every step of the way (Matthew 28:20). **(1:00)** Philippians 1:6 – "...being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." – “Thank you for listening today! Giving Thanks should be a daily part of the life of every disciple of Jesus. We have so much to be thankful for, we just so easily are distracted by the details of life.Be intentional, be thankful! -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Take time today to pause and thank God for His work in your life and keep running. **(00:00)** AD: If you want to support the Run With Horses Podcast and Radio Show, the best way you can do that is by telling other people about it and leaving a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Another way is by checking out our books. Our goal is to support your spiritual growth in any way we can. A link to each of our author pages on Amazon is in the show notes. You can find all our shows with links to the most popular podcast apps at rwh.podbean.com. Thanks for joining us on the journey! https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
“And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.””Luke 12:15 NKJVAs we are still in the beginning of the make sure you watch and pray very important.Happy weekend everyone and I hope we are doing well remember family is everything and very important!!
24_12_07 -Ep.341 - Run With Horses Podcast - Developing Biblical Character Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Susan's New book – Parenting Manual https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo Norman's New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It's a practical, quick read! https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04 --- **(28:00)** Today we consider Biblical Character, what it is and how to get it! Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It's very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you're new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” **(27:00 – 23:00)** Spiritual Habits - **(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1 Part 1: What is Biblical Character? 1. Definition of Biblical Character • Definition: Dictionary definition of character 1. "Moral or ethical strength: integrity. Biblical perspective on character 1. Character as inner moral strength 2. Proverbs 4:23 (NKJV): "Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life." Biblical character is the moral and spiritual qualities that align with God's Word, reflecting His nature and will in a person's life. ◦ Rooted in the word “character,” which implies a distinctive mark or engraving. Biblical character involves being “marked” by God's nature. • Key Passage: Romans 5:3-4 "And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope." • A. Integrity 1. Definition: "The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles"2. Job 2:3 (NKJV): "And the Lord said to Satan, 'Have you considered My servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, one who fears God and shuns evil? And still he holds fast to his integrity, although you incited Me against him, to destroy him without cause.'" • B. Faithfulness 1. Importance of being trustworthy 2. Luke 16:10 (NKJV): "He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much." 2. Examples of Biblical Character in Scripture • Abraham (Faith and Obedience): ◦ Genesis 22:12: "And He said, 'Do not lay your hand on the lad, or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me.'" ◦ Emphasis on obedience to God despite personal cost. • Joseph (Integrity and Forgiveness): ◦ Genesis 39:9: "There is no one greater in this house than I, nor has he kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" ◦ Focus on Joseph's integrity and forgiveness in Genesis 50:20. • Ruth (Loyalty and Devotion): ◦ Ruth 1:16: "Entreat me not to leave you, or to turn back from following after you; for wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God, my God." • Daniel (Faithfulness): ◦ Daniel 6:10: "Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days." 3. Why Biblical Character Matters • Reflection of God's Nature: ◦ 1 Peter 1:15-16: "But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, 'Be holy, for I am holy.'" • Witness to Others: ◦ Matthew 5:16: "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." **(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2** Part 2: Developing Biblical Character 1. Foundational Principles for Developing Biblical Character • Commit to God's Word: ◦ Psalm 119:11: "Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You." ◦ 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NKJV): "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. ◦ Spiritual habit of daily Bible reading and meditation. ◦ Study and Meditate on God's Word - Joshua 1:8 (NKJV): "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success." - Practical tips for Bible study and meditation ◦ Practical tip: Use a reading plan to engage with Scripture regularly. • Prayer for Transformation: ◦ Philippians 4:6-7: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." ◦ Develop a habit of daily prayer asking God for character growth. ◦ Cultivate a Strong Prayer Life - 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NKJV): "Pray without ceasing." - Different types of prayer and their importance in character development • Community and Accountability: ◦ Relationship - Building authentic connections 1. With God: Prayer and personal devotion 2. With others: Accountability and fellowship ◦ 1 Thessalonians 2:8 (NKJV): "So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us." ◦ Proverbs 27:17: "As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend." ◦ Be involved in a discipleship relationship or small group for encouragement and accountability. ◦ Embrace Accountability and Community - Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV): "As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend." - The importance of Christian fellowship in character growth 2. Practical Steps to Build Character • Practice Humility: ◦ Philippians 2:3-4: "Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others." ◦ Practice Obedience and Submission to God - James 1:22 (NKJV): "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." - The role of obedience in shaping character • Respond Well to Trials: ◦ James 1:2-4: "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." ◦ View difficulties as opportunities for God to refine character. • Serve Others: ◦ Mark 10:45: "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." ◦ Develop selflessness through acts of service. * Develop Spiritual Disciplines (4 minutes) - Fasting, solitude, service, etc. - 1 Timothy 4:7 (NKJV): "But reject profane and old wives' fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness." 3. Encouragement to Continue Growing • Ongoing Process: ◦ 2 Peter 1:5-7: "But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love." ◦ Sanctification is a lifelong journey. ◦ Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV): "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law." ◦ • Final Exhortation: ◦ Galatians 6:9: "And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." Call to Action: • Reflect on one area of character that needs development this week. • Commit to one practical step (e.g., memorize a verse, journal about a trial, seek accountability). • Pray daily for God's help to grow in character. **(5:00 – 1:00)** Doctrine of the Month - Salvation *The Need for Salvation Romans 3:23-24 – “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” Define salvation as deliverance from sin and its consequences. Briefly discuss the universality of sin. *Sin Problem Explain sin as rebellion against God (1 John 3:4 - Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.). Emphasize the separation sin causes between humanity and God (Isaiah 59:1-2 - 1 Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, That it cannot save; Nor His ear heavy, That it cannot hear. 2 But your iniquities have separated you from your God; And your sins have hidden His face from you, So that He will not hear.). *God's Standard Discuss God's holiness and the impossibility of humans meeting His standard (Romans 3:10 - 9What then? Are we better than they? Not at all. For we have previously charged both Jews and Greeks that they are all under sin. 10As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one; 11There is none who understands; There is none who seeks after God. 12They have all turned aside; They have together become unprofitable; There is none who does good, no, not one.” 13“Their throat is an open tomb; With their tongues they have practiced deceit”; “The poison of asps is under their lips”; 14“Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness.” 15“Their feet are swift to shed blood; 16Destruction and misery are in their ways; 17And the way of peace they have not known.” 18“There is no fear of God before their eyes.”). Reflect on your need for salvation and your personal standing before God. **(1:00)** - “Thank you for listening today! Giving Thanks should be a daily part of the life of every disciple of Jesus. We have so much to be thankful for, we just so easily are distracted by the details of life.Be intentional, be thankful! -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Take time today to pause and thank God for His work in your life and keep running. **(00:00)**
“And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”Galatians 5:24 NKJVAs we observe Holy Saturday, may we remember that even in the darkest moments, God is at work, bringing forth light and new life.enjoy the remaining of the weekend!!
The Call to Repentance: A Pathway to Restoration • Sunday Service Website: www.PastorTodd.org To Give: www.ToddCoconato.com/give Today, we gather to delve deeply into the profound and transformative concept of repentance. Repentance is not merely an act of remorse or sorrow for past wrongdoing; it is a spiritual journey of turning away from sin and returning to God. As we explore the Scriptures together, let us open our hearts to the Holy Word and allow it to guide us on the path of repentance and restoration. Scripture 1: Matthew 4:17 (NKJV) "From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.'" Scripture 2: Acts 3:19 (NKJV) "Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord." Scripture 3: Luke 15:7 (NKJV) "I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance." Scripture 4: Acts 26:20 (NKJV) "but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance." Scripture 5: 2 Corinthians 7:10 (NKJV) "For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death." Scripture 6: Acts 2:38 (NKJV) "Then Peter said to them, 'Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'" Scripture 7: Revelation 3:19 (NKJV) "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent." Scripture 8: Ezekiel 18:30 (NKJV) "Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways,' says the Lord God. 'Repent, and turn from all your transgressions, so that iniquity will not be your ruin.'" Scripture 9: Acts 17:30 (NKJV) "Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent," Scripture 10: James 4:8 (NKJV) "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded."
Worship leader Leah Rios brings this week's message, “Forgiveness.” Key Verses: Matthew 18.21–35 NKJV: “Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. And when he had begun to settle accounts, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. But as he was not able to pay, his master commanded that he be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and that payment be made. The servant therefore fell down before him, saying, ‘Master, have patience with me, and I will pay you all.' Then the master of that servant was moved with compassion, released him, and forgave him the debt. “But that servant went out and found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and he laid hands on him and took him by the throat, saying, ‘Pay me what you owe!' So his fellow servant fell down at his feet and begged him, saying, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you all.' And he would not, but went and threw him into prison till he should pay the debt. So when his fellow servants saw what had been done, they were very grieved, and came and told their master all that had been done. Then his master, after he had called him, said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you begged me. Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?' And his master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him. “So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses.” Ephesians 4.32 NKJV: “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Psalms 103.12 NKJV: “As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.” Isaiah 1.18 NKJV: “Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the Lord, “Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.” Luke 6.45 NKJV: “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” Psalms 139.23 NKJV: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties;” Jeremiah 17.9–10 NKJV: “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it? I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his doings.” Luke 23.34 NKJV: “Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” And they divided His garments and cast lots.” Sermon Topics: Forgiveness, Restoration, Healing If you enjoyed the podcast, please subscribe and share it with your friends on social media. For more information about PNEUMA Church, visit our website at mypneumachurch.org. Connect with Us: Instagram: instagram.com/mypneumachurch YouTube: youtube.com/mypneumachurch Thank you for listening, and may God bless you. Time Stamps 00:00 - Introduction 00:30 - Welcome 02:32 - Matthew 18.21–35 NKJV 04:25 - Forgiveness
Luke 15: 11 - 32 (NKJV) As we break down this prodigal we'll be exploring how there are two ways we attempt to control our lives and become our own saviors. While many might believe that the prodigal son is the primary focus, this sermon will delve into dynamics of a family. This passage will show us the heart of a selfless father in the midst of his selfish sons.
Complete Victory: The Triumph of Easter Sunday • Sunday Service Website: www.PastorTodd.org To give: www.ToddCoconato.come/give Welcome to Resurrection Day 2024 Sunday service—a day marked by joy, reflection, and the profound truth of our faith. Today, we gather to commemorate the story of the cross, the pivotal moment in history where complete victory was achieved, not by swords and might, but through sacrifice and love. "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" Luke 23:34 (NKJV) "As the soldiers led him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus. A large number of people followed him, including women who mourned and wailed for him. Jesus turned and said to them, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep for yourselves and for your children. For the time will come when you will say, ‘Blessed are the childless women, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!' Then “‘they will say to the mountains, “Fall on us!” LUKE 23:26-30 (NKJV) "...and to the hills, “Cover us!”' For if people do these things when the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?” 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." LUKE 23:31-34 (NKJV) The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, “He saved others; let him save himself if he is God's Messiah, the Chosen One.” The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar and said, “If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.” There was a written notice above him, which read: this is the king of the jews. One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren't you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” LUKE 23:35-39 (NKJV) But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don't you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.[d]” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” LUKE 23:40-43 (NKJV) It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, for the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last. The centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God and said, “Surely this was a righteous man.” When all the people who had gathered to witness this sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts and went away. But all those who knew him, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things." LUKE 23:44-49 (NKJV) "For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit. After being made alive, he went and made proclamation to the imprisoned spirits." 1 Peter 3:18-19 (NKJV) "He is not here; he has risen, just as he said" Matthew 28:6 (NKJV) "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:37-39 (NKJV) "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 (NKJV) "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33 (NKJV) "But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ's triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere." 2 Corinthians 2:14 (NKJV) "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 6:10-12 (NKJV)
The Word of God Devotional and Evangelical Ministries The Word of God Daily Devotional Wednesday, January 17, 2024 Give the Battles of Life to the Lord! 2 Chronicles cles 20:15 “And he said, “Listen, all you of Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you, King Jehoshaphat! Thus says the Lord to you: ‘Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's.“ II Chronicles 20:15 NKJV As we can see by this Scripture in the Old Testament, the Lord has always protected and fought battles for his people! Through their faith and obedience to him, God Fought and Won the physical battles for his people. In other Words, God supernaturally worked in their situations even though they appeared to have no chance of win or survival! Let me tell you, our Good God is the same today! Whatever illness or disease, trial or battle you are facing, give it to the Lord! Amen! He has given us victory through his Son Jesus. God has given us Victory through the Cross of Christ Jesus. As a believer, I have a vision of myself walking with the actual Cross that Jesus carried attached by my side. Brothers and Sisters, when God sees this, you have already won the battle before it begun. in fact when the enemy sees it, trust me the enemy can see it, they see their defeat, they see their downfall! Therefore, whatever circumstances you are in, give them your the Lord, let him fight your battles! I pray that this message has blessed you! Have a Blessed Day!
The Word of God Devotional and Evangelical Ministries The Word of God Daily Devotional Wednesday, January 17, 2024 Give the Battles of Life to the Lord! 2 Chronicles cles 20:15 “And he said, “Listen, all you of Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you, King Jehoshaphat! Thus says the Lord to you: ‘Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's.“ II Chronicles 20:15 NKJV As we can see by this Scripture in the Old Testament, the Lord has always protected and fought battles for his people! Through their faith and obedience to him, God Fought and Won the physical battles for his people. In other Words, God supernaturally worked in their situations even though they appeared to have no chance of win or survival! Let me tell you, our Good God is the same today! Whatever illness or disease, trial or battle you are facing, give it to the Lord! Amen! He has given us victory through his Son Jesus. God has given us Victory through the Cross of Christ Jesus. As a believer, I have a vision of myself walking with the actual Cross that Jesus carried attached by my side. Brothers and Sisters, when God sees this, you have already won the battle before it begun. in fact when the enemy sees it, trust me the enemy can see it, they see their defeat, they see their downfall! Therefore, whatever circumstances you are in, give them your the Lord, let him fight your battles! I pray that this message has blessed you! Have a Blessed Day!
The Word of God Devotional and Evangelical Ministries The Word of God Daily Devotional Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Follow Jesus; Let us all follow the Word of God! John 1:35-37 Again, the next day, John stood with two of his disciples. And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.“ Brothers and Sisters in the Scripture we see two people who were looking for the Truth, they were looking to learn from the Word of God. These two disciples were with John the Baptist! We know he was a great man of God! Regardless these disciples of John sought the living God! Brothers and Sisters I want to encourage you that regardless of what faith or denomination you practice, you must seek to have a relationship with God through his son Jesus. In fact, in John 1: 38-39 Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, “What do you seek?” They said to Him, “Rabbi” (which is to say, when translated, Teacher), “where are You staying?” He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where He was staying, and remained with Him that day (now it was about the tenth hour).“ John 1:38-39 NKJV As we see from the example of these disciples, they went after Jesus, they wanted to learn the Word of God, they wanted to develop a relationship with God through his Word Jesus. Therefore, today if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts says the Lord, seek me and you will find me, for you are mine, you were created for me. Brothers and Sisters , seek to have a relationship to God through reading Scripture, through daily meditating. Gods Word is indeed powerful and living , God will reveal himself to you! He is alive today and he wants you follow him! Therefore, seek the Lord in all you do, he will manifest himself to you! I pray that this message has blessed you!
The Word of God Devotional and Evangelical Ministries The Word of God Daily Devotional Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Follow Jesus; Let us all follow the Word of God! John 1:35-37 Again, the next day, John stood with two of his disciples. And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.“ Brothers and Sisters in the Scripture we see two people who were looking for the Truth, they were looking to learn from the Word of God. These two disciples were with John the Baptist! We know he was a great man of God! Regardless these disciples of John sought the living God! Brothers and Sisters I want to encourage you that regardless of what faith or denomination you practice, you must seek to have a relationship with God through his son Jesus. In fact, in John 1: 38-39 Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, “What do you seek?” They said to Him, “Rabbi” (which is to say, when translated, Teacher), “where are You staying?” He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where He was staying, and remained with Him that day (now it was about the tenth hour).“ John 1:38-39 NKJV As we see from the example of these disciples, they went after Jesus, they wanted to learn the Word of God, they wanted to develop a relationship with God through his Word Jesus. Therefore, today if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts says the Lord, seek me and you will find me, for you are mine, you were created for me. Brothers and Sisters , seek to have a relationship to God through reading Scripture, through daily meditating. Gods Word is indeed powerful and living , God will reveal himself to you! He is alive today and he wants you follow him! Therefore, seek the Lord in all you do, he will manifest himself to you! I pray that this message has blessed you!
Anchor Scripture(s): Isaiah 41:8-14 NKJV | As we journey through 2024, fear will try to get the best of us, however, we must journey with God. We must not only rely on our faith in God's promises but actively pursue a deeper relationship with Him through prayer, searching the Scripture, and seeking His presence. This episode explores why it is important not to be afraid and four keys to overcoming fear. God bless you. Amen!
Be A Balanced Christian! | Todd Coconato Show "The Remnant" Website: www.PastorTodd.org To give: www.ToddCoconato.com/give RRC: www.RRCNashville.org New Book: www.PastorToddBook.com 1. Ephesians 4:14-15 (NKJV) "That we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ." 2. Proverbs 4:27 (NKJV) "Do not turn to the right or the left; Remove your foot from evil." 3. Philippians 4:7 (NKJV) "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." 4. 2 Timothy 4:3 (NKJV) "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers." 5. Matthew 7:24-25 (NKJV) "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock." 6. Galatians 5:13 (NKJV) "For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another." 7. Titus 3:9 (NKJV) "But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless." 8. Hebrews 12:14 (NKJV) "Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord." 9. Galatians 6:2 (NKJV) "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." 10. Colossians 2:6-7 (NKJV) "As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving."
COMMUNION SUNDAY WORSHIP December 3, 2023 | 10 a.m. "Prepare Him Room" by Rev. Jason Co "And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." ~Luke 2:7 (NKJV) As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, Rev. Jason Co challenges us to open our hearts to Jesus and "Prepare Him Room" in all aspects and seasons of our lives! ONSITE: 3/F Main Sanctuary ONLINE: Via YouTube Livestream https://NMEC.Online/Livestreaming ----- If you wish to support the Lord's work through our church: https://NMEC.Online/Giving
Life is good for the one who is generous and charitable, conducting affairs with honesty and truth. Psalms 112:5 TPT Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT “I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. “But you ask, ‘How are we to return?' Malachi 3:6-7 NIV “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?' Malachi 3:8 NIV “In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. Malachi 3:8-9 NIV Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty. “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty. Malachi 3:10-12 NIV 3 UNDERSTANDINGS ABOUT TITHING 1. TITHING IS A TEST Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. Malachi 3:10 NIV 2. TITHING IS BIBLICAL Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram, saying, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.” Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything. Genesis 14:18-20 NIV this memorial pillar I have set up will become a place for worshiping God, and I will present to God a tenth of everything he gives me. Genesis 28:22 NLT One-tenth of the produce of the land, whether grain from the fields or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord and must be set apart to him as holy. Leviticus 27:30 NLT And it shall be, when you come into the land which the Lord your God is giving you as an inheritance, and you possess it and dwell in it, you shall take some of the first of all the produce of the ground, which you shall bring from your land that the Lord your God is giving you, and put it in a basket and go to the place where the Lord your God chooses to make His name abide. Deuteronomy 26:1-2 NKJV then you shall say before the Lord your God: ‘I have removed the holy tithe from my house, and also have given them to the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, according to all Your commandments which You have commanded me; I have not transgressed Your commandments, nor have I forgotten them. I have not eaten any of it when in mourning, nor have I removed any of it for an unclean use, nor given any of it for the dead. I have obeyed the voice of the Lord my God, and have done according to all that You have commanded me. Deuteronomy 26:13-14 NKJV Look down from Your holy habitation, from heaven, and bless Your people Israel and the land which You have given us… Deuteronomy 26:15 NKJV “What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are careful to tithe even the tiniest income from your herb gardens, but you ignore the more important aspects of the law—justice, mercy, and faith. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things. Mathew 23:23 3. TITHING IS A BLESSING Moreover he commanded the people who dwelt in Jerusalem to contribute support for the priests and the Levites, that they might devote themselves to the Law of the Lord. 2 Chronicles 31:4 NKJV As soon as the commandment was circulated, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of grain and wine, oil and honey, and of all the produce of the field; and they brought in abundantly the tithe of everything. And the children of Israel and Judah, who dwelt in the cities of Judah, brought the tithe of oxen and sheep; also the tithe of holy things which were consecrated to the Lord their God they laid in heaps. In the third month they began laying them in heaps, and they finished in the seventh month. 2 Chronicles 31:5-7 NKJV And when Hezekiah and the leaders came and saw the heaps, they blessed the Lord and His people Israel. Then Hezekiah questioned the priests and the Levites concerning the heaps. And Azariah the chief priest, from the house of Zadok, answered him and said, “Since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the Lord, we have had enough to eat and have plenty left, for the Lord has blessed His people; and what is left is this great abundance. 2 Chronicles 31:8-10 NKJV I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:12-14 NLT Level 1: Initial Giver… What do I do with my stuff? Level 2: Consistent Giver… What do I do with God's stuff? . Level 3: Intentional Giver… What does God want me to do with God's stuff? Level 4: Spiritual Giver… What does God want me to GIVE from what GOD has provided? Level 5: Surrendered Giver… What does God want me to KEEP from what GOD has provided? If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:25-26 NLT
Acts 13:2-3 NKJV “As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.” Laying on of hands can be used as a means to commission people for leadership or service.
3 Key Factors for Peer Leadership The strongest teams have unbreakable peer relationships. That's why in this episode, you'll learn traits that encourage unity and singleness of purpose. Find out what it takes to become a prophetic champion at the peer level. A Message From Your Prophetic Peers: "David's mighty men worked together to put him on the throne. Once they did that, they worked to establish his culture in the kingdom." - Michael and Deborah-Anne Velthuysen Join the Tribe! - myprophetictribe.com Rise of the Prophetic Champions: https://amzn.to/3F26Xuy Scriptures Referenced in This Episode: Isaiah 60:4 (NKJV): “Lift up your eyes all around, and see: They all gather together, they come to you; Your sons shall come from afar, And your daughters shall be nursed at your side.” Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV): “As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.”
3 Key Factors for Peer Leadership The strongest teams have unbreakable peer relationships. That's why in this episode, you'll learn traits that encourage unity and singleness of purpose. Find out what it takes to become a prophetic champion at the peer level. A Message From Your Prophetic Peers: "David's mighty men worked together to put him on the throne. Once they did that, they worked to establish his culture in the kingdom." - Michael and Deborah-Anne Velthuysen Join the Tribe! - myprophetictribe.com Rise of the Prophetic Champions: https://amzn.to/3F26Xuy Scriptures Referenced in This Episode: Isaiah 60:4 (NKJV): “Lift up your eyes all around, and see: They all gather together, they come to you; Your sons shall come from afar, And your daughters shall be nursed at your side.” Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV): “As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.”
Listen to These Stories of Peer Rejection to Learn how to Respond Correctly
Listen to These Stories of Peer Rejection to Learn how to Respond Correctly
When They Don't Want to Hear it But You Have to Obey God
When They Don't Want to Hear it But You Have to Obey God
Sunday, 19 March 2023 “Known to God from eternity are all His works. Acts 15:18 The previous verse cited Amos, concluding with the words, “Says the Lord who does all these things.” With the end of the citation, James now speaks, saying, “Known to God from eternity are all His works.” As a note for clarification, the wording of the previous verse and of this verse are not the same in various texts normally used by more modern versions. The difference is more noticeable when they are taken together and placed side by side – “'So that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, And all the Gentiles who are called by My name,' 18 Says the Lord, who makes these things known from long ago.” (NASB) “'So that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, Even all the Gentiles who are called by My name, Says the Lord who does all these things.' 18 “Known to God from eternity are all His works.” (NKJV) As can be seen, the NASB and other translations make the verse a part of the citation of Amos with words added as a part of the citation by James. On the other hand, the NKJV, et al., have more words in James' additional thoughts which form a separate sentence altogether. Going with the latter thought for commentary purposes, the meaning is that everything God has done or will do has been known from beginning to end by God, even since the very beginning. This thought is fully supported throughout Scripture, but an example from each testament will show this – “Remember the former things of old, For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, 10 Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things that are not yet done, Saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, And I will do all My pleasure,'” Isaiah 46:9, 10 “All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” Revelation 13:8 As the words of Amos agree with the thought that the Gentiles were to be a part of what God was doing before the raising up and rebuilding of the “tabernacle of David,” meaning re-establishment of the Davidic rule, then it would be wrong for the apostles to judge against that by demanding that Gentiles observe the Law of Moses. God had poured out His Spirit upon the Gentiles in the presence of Peter apart from the law. Paul and Barnabas had seen many converts and the Lord had worked signs and wonders through them on behalf of the Gentiles apart from the law. As these things were indisputable, it would be working contrary to God to suddenly stop this work of the Lord and impose a law upon them that had been fulfilled and set aside by the work of Jesus. Life application: Various commentaries on Acts 15:17, 18 make a claim that “the best texts” support their translation which varies in content from the other texts. That is a subjective claim. Who is to determine the “best text” when they have no idea which is original? Rather, unless their view is supportable by the original, which isn't available and cannot be known, they need to simply state that there is a variation in source texts and state why they support one over the other. If this is not done, then a bias in the mind of the reader of the commentary will arise. This is not a sound approach when explaining the Bible. This same thought carries through to one version or another. Even if the same source texts are used for two translations, it is inappropriate to say “This is the better version” without providing a full explanation as to why it is so. If it is true, that is fine, but to arbitrarily make the claim without support will lead to bias in the mind of the one being instructed. Be careful to not inject subjective thoughts into your teaching. This is important because if those thoughts are found to be incorrect, it will often be too late to undo those biases in the minds of students who have moved on. Heavenly Father, help us to look at Your word with a passion and desire to know it more each day. And if we are going to instruct others in what we have learned, help us to do so from an objective point of view, telling what we know is certain and not being dogmatic about what is uncertain. Be with us in this, O God. Amen.
In this episode, Host Chae Cole encourages listeners who are learning and developing their gifts. He encourages them to find communities that help cultivate and steward the gifts appropriately. Additionally, he speaks to those who feel as if they are not gifted in some capacity. This episode will help you embrace the gifts that God has given you and walk confidently in who he has called you to be! Scripture: 1 Peter 4:10-11 NKJV - As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. Host: Chae Cole Instagram: @Coletherapy Website: https://www.coletherapy.com Email: therapycole@gmail.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/coletherapy/support
"Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock." Matthew 7: 24-25 NKJV As with buildings, lives also need solid foundations. Your own strength, health, intelligence, youth, talents, loved ones, parents, and friends cannot be the foundation stone for life. They all can be easily carried away like the shifting sand and you can be left floundering for a footing. It's also too big a job for anyone but God. God wants to be the foundation and meaning of our lives. When we build on a firm foundation of Christ, we can withstand whatever comes our way. When a foundation is based on the true meaning and spirit of the word of God it produces steadfast faith and life. Come to Jesus and let Him to be the foundation of your life!
Description: Steve Hannett, host of the "The Miraculous Life TV Show", interviews Apostles Craig and Colette Toach on spiritual parenting. Your mentors share how your identity and value are restored through spiritual parenting. Get back to God's perfect design for your life. Prep yourself for investment as a spiritual child. Show Notes: You need reparenting because some of the things you do are separating you from the Father. A spiritual parent will help you see life differently. They'll help you overcome hurts you thought would never heal. By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped to work with a spiritual parent. "If we want to see true healing in the church, then we need the courage of spiritual parents. They must get involved in peoples lives and get to the core of where the true hurt is. Then we will see change." - Colette Toach What You Will Learn How Spiritual Parenting Brings Healing Displacement brings a change of character where laying on of hands cannot. The Role a Spiritual Child Plays Let down your guard. Allow yourself to be reshaped into a new image. Looking for Spiritual Parents? Listen to this Audio Teaching for Help! Related Episodes How to Find Your Spiritual Parents (Ep. 57) Scriptures That Acknowledge the Need for Spiritual Parenting Romans 8:15 NKJV For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” Psalms 68:5 NKJVA father of the fatherless, a defender of widows, Is God in His holy habitation. Romans 12:2 NKJV And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Colossians 2:6-8 NKJV As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. Check Out Steve Hannet's Podcast - Be Healed! https://bit.ly/3NdPGBr Sponsor the NextGen Prophets Podcast Take this message further. Be responsible for raising the Next Generation of Prophets. Get Your Free E-book and Course Here https://www.nextgenprophets.org/ Hang Out With us Every Day Here Sign Up to the Free Community of Apostles and Prophets Watch Our Free Prophetic Teachings on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/ToachMinistries Give Us a Call! Call 760 466 7257 Get Connected With Apostles Craig and Colette Toach Submit Your Question to the Apostles: ToachMinistries.com Follow the NextGen Prophets Facebook: Next Gen Prophets Follow the NextGen Prophets Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextgenprophets/
Description: Steve Hannett, host of the "The Miraculous Life TV Show", interviews Apostles Craig and Colette Toach on spiritual parenting. Your mentors share how your identity and value are restored through spiritual parenting. Get back to God's perfect design for your life. Prep yourself for investment as a spiritual child. Show Notes: You need reparenting because some of the things you do are separating you from the Father. A spiritual parent will help you see life differently. They'll help you overcome hurts you thought would never heal. By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped to work with a spiritual parent. "If we want to see true healing in the church, then we need the courage of spiritual parents. They must get involved in peoples lives and get to the core of where the true hurt is. Then we will see change." - Colette Toach What You Will Learn How Spiritual Parenting Brings Healing Displacement brings a change of character where laying on of hands cannot. The Role a Spiritual Child Plays Let down your guard. Allow yourself to be reshaped into a new image. Looking for Spiritual Parents? Listen to this Audio Teaching for Help! How to Find Your Spiritual Parents (Ep. 57) Scriptures That Acknowledge the Need for Spiritual Parenting Romans 8:15 NKJV For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” Psalms 68:5 NKJVA father of the fatherless, a defender of widows, Is God in His holy habitation. Romans 12:2 NKJV And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Colossians 2:6-8 NKJV As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. Check Out Steve Hannet's Podcast - Be Healed! https://bit.ly/3NdPGBr Sponsor the NextGen Prophets Podcast Take this message further. Be responsible for raising the Next Generation of Prophets. Get Your Free E-book and Course Here https://www.nextgenprophets.org/ Hang Out With us Every Day Here Sign Up to the Free Community of Apostles and Prophets Watch Our Free Prophetic Teachings on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/ToachMinistries Give Us a Call! Call 760 466 7257 Get Connected With Apostles Craig and Colette Toach Submit Your Question to the Apostles: ToachMinistries.com Follow the NextGen Prophets Facebook: Next Gen Prophets Follow the NextGen Prophets Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextgenprophets/
Exactly What do I Believe2/16/22 “Imitate God like little children” really got me thinking, just exactly how much of who God is and what He does are we supposed to imitate? A key point to this truth is, like little children Mark 10:15,NKJV- Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it. The question is, just exactly what do we believe? Did He really mean that we're to actually imitate the things He did? Not only does the Holy Spirit through the apostle Paul tells us to imitate God, Paul says it this way in Corinthians, imitate me as I imitates Christ. Jesus told us, “If you've seen me you've seen the Father.” “I came from Heaven to do the will of the Father who sent me.” Matthew 28:18-20,MSG- Jesus told His disciples: God authorized and commanded me to commission you:Go out and train everyone you meet, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I'll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age. After accepting the truth about Jesus, possibly the next biggest thing we've got to get settled is, do we believe the Bible to be the word of God to us today? This is why we can't over emphasize the power of believing. That means, even if we don't understand truth yet, believing the Bible is God's word is an absolute. At the end of the day, believing comes down to a decision. And it starts with understand that the Bible is a spiritual book. By design, when God's created makes room for His word, it's God's word that produces faith when we yield to it. And simply put, faith is what we believe. So, to what extent are we allowing the Bible to shape our beliefs? God's word is incorruptible seed. And everything about God's Kingdom is like sowing seed. Luke even says that God's word is the seed sown. Psalm 119 says , Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven. Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path. Isaiah 55:11,AMP- So will My word be which goes out of My mouth; It will not return to Me void, useless, without result, without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it. 2 Timothy 3:16-17,NKJV- All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Corinthians 1:20,NKJV- For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. If God is expecting us to imitate Him, to follow Jesus' example, to do the things He did, then where are all the healings today? Seriously, if Jesus told us to follow Him, to do what He did and said, if His word is forever settled, if His word enlightens our path, if we're honestly suppose to imitate Him. Then what happened to the healings? Could our believing have anything to do with it? What about unbelief? In Jesus' own home town He could do no mighty works because of their unbelief. Mark 6:6, And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching. Teaching the word is the remedy for unbelief. Remember, faith come from the word. Not only is our minds renewed when subjected to God's word, His word is also the spiritual force that develops faith in a believer. And faith without a corresponding action is useless. Colossians 2:6,NKJV- As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him,The AMP goes on to say, walk in union with Him, reflecting His character in the things you do and say. Therefore we walk by faith, not by sight. Here's the deal, there's only one way to receive Christ, and that's by grace through faith. So by grace, through faith we are expected to live our new lives in Him. So back to the reason for our titled, exactly what do I believe?Can a persons faith have anything to do with God's healing power?Can a persons faith have anything to do with God's saving power? For some reason we've concluded that these two spiritual realities are different. For example, we pray for healing, but symptoms still exist, so we assume it to be different than salvation. But let's not kid ourselves, if we went by that philosophy, there's no way you could be sure you're saved. There's days we don't feel saved, and no doubt days we don't look or act saved. Does what we believe line up with God's word? By design our believing has everything to do with the realities of our new world? That also means unbelief has major influence into our new lives in Christ. Remember, Jesus in His home town couldn't do any mighty works because of unbelief. In Matthew 9, Jesus asked the blind men, “do you believe I'm able to do this?” Then He told them, “according to your faith let it be done to you.” Here's the thing, these guys weren't even born again. And because of that they had to get to Jesus. But now, because He has come to us, given us His Spirit, given us new lives, He actually lives in us, allowed His body to be beaten beyond recognition. Just maybe He's asking us the same thing He asked the blind guys, “Do you believe I'm able to do this?” Remember, Jesus doesn't change. We're told to imitate Him, called to follow Him, and every where He went, He healed, how are we suppose to interpret that? Let's take it a step further, according to Romans, if we have to believe and confess to be saved, just maybe believing and confessing has something to do with healing? I cannot over emphasize the importance of SPEAKING GOD'S WORD into our situation. Even though God designed us to live a certain way, until we make a conscious evert to stop resorting to our human reasoning to determine the realities of His word, our faith will remain undeveloped. This is why Isaiah was asking if anyone was going to believe any of this stuff. When we study the life of Jesus, why do you think He healed everywhere He went? John 6:38,NKJV- For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. Keep in mind, Jesus told us, “I am the way and the truth.” And if you've seen Me you've seen the Father. A thorough study of His life in the New Testament will reveal that He healed 100% of the people that came to Him for healing. Matthew 4:23,NKJV- And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people. Keep in mind, we're called to follow Him, imitate Him, do the things He told us to do. So, just exactly what do we believe? Matthew 10, Jesus gave His first disciples authority to heal all sickness. Then He sent them out, and in verse 8, He tells them, “heal the sick.” Luke 10, Jesus appoints 70 more disciples and sends them out and tells them, “heal the sick.” Think about this, Mark's version of the great commission tells us that part of our commission is to lay hands on sick people and they will recover. Jesus told us in Luke, "A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher." So why would He train His first disciples to live and minister a certain way, then command them to train everyone they discipled to live the same way, then move back to Heaven and expect us to live a different way and not even say anything about it to His closest followers, or at least leave us something in His word instructing us to live differently? What if, we don't see something like healing operating in our church simply because we fail to talk about it enough to allow the Holy Spirit to establish faith in us concerning healing? Here's the other side of this truth, if everything in God's Kingdom operates in seedtime and harvest, and His word is incorruptible seed, and it's been sown in our soul, just maybe we've got to believe that it's growing right now. Mark 4:14,26-28,NKJV- The sower sows the word.And He said, The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground,and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how.For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. Seed doesn't do anything until its put in the ground. So back to our original question, exactly what do we believe? Just maybe Jesus is asking us the same thing He asked the blind guys, “Do you believe I'm able to do this?”
Here's the thing, seeing what God is saying is the only way we embrace our new lives, our spiritual lives. Revelation (spiritual seeing) is what empowers us to rise above the fears, failures, disappointments, circumstances, excuses, and become the person God created us to be. To experience some of His supernatural.Or like the apostle Paul says, “we walk in the spirit instead of the flesh.” But unfortunately, to often we miss the supernatural because we're looking for the spectacular. And I realize the religious world, the unbelieving world, not to mention, we have a real enemy that constantly try pulling us from God's world. So we constantly have talks like this because at the end of the day, everything about God and His Kingdom come down to this one truth; we have to believe what the book says. It's the only way into His world. Remember Paul's instructions from 2 Corinthians, We do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen.For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. Being able to see the unseen reshapes our thinking, which ultimately shapes our living. We've got to see things from His perspective. John 1:12-13,NLT- To all who believed Him and accepted Him, He gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God. I can tell you from my own battles, embracing the reality that I'm a son of God, created like Him, called to follow His lead is something my humanity is constantly unwilling to accept. None the less, if any of His word is truth, all of it has to be truth. You talk about seeing what He's saying, leave here today with this reality settled in your thinking, I'M CREATED LIKE HIM 1 Corinthians 15:48-49,NKJV- As was the man of dust, so also are those who are made of dust; and as is the heavenly Man, so also are those who are heavenly.And as we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly Man. When Jesus told us to repent for the Kingdom of heaven has come, He's telling us to change; change our thinking, believing, our doing. That means taking enough time with Jesus and His word that it begins shaping our expectation for God to do certain things in our lives. And a major key in this reality is seeing ourselves like Him, as eternal people. It's important we keep this reality out in front of us. Think about this, Peter tells us a day with the Lord is like one thousand years. From that perspective, a year is only a couple minutes.And that's how Paul can tells us not to be moved by the things we see. He understood, the more we focus on the unseen the more spiritual transformation we're going to experience. But here's the deal, you ever read something God said, but file it away as one of those un-understandable's? Because you don't see what He's saying. Revelation (spiritual seeing) according to Isaiah 28, comes to every believer, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little. And I know we get consumed with this life, the cares of this world, the desire for other things, not to mention the enemy doing everything possible to keep us distracted. So when we find ourselves distracted, maybe rebellious, failing more times than we care to admit. We have to know that El-Roi The God who sees, sees our end from our beginning is still here, never leaving us or forsaking us. Remember Paul's revelation, “It's only by the grace of God that I am what I am.” Romans 7:18-25,NLT- And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can't.19, I want to do what is good, but I don't. I don't want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway.20, But if I do what I don't want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.21, I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong.22, I love God's law with all my heart.23, But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me.24, Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death?25, Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God's law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin. And this is why sometimes a simple talk like this is all we need to redirect our thinking. Our focus. To be open to a fresh approach to a little Holy Spirit inspired living. To understand, just like Paul that it's only by the grace of God that any of us, on any given day can stand in His presence. Sometimes right in the middle of us giving into the same trap that gets us every time. You know the one… you start seeing what He's saying!! Philippians 1:6,AMP- I am convinced of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ, right up to the time of His return, developing that good work and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you. Since Jesus is the visible image of the invisible God, one of the first thing He addressed society about was that we would have to change our thinking and our actions. Colossians 1:15-16,NLT- Christ is the visible image of the invisible God.He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth.He made the things we can see and the things we can't see— such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the UNSEEN WORLD. Everything was created through Him and for Him. Make no mistake, God absolutely expects us to embrace the fact that in our new lives in Christ, we've been made like Him, to function like Him.But here's the kicker, because of free will, when it comes to the unseen, His divine secrets, His Kingdom, God has reserved it's truths for those who seek Him. Hebrews says, God rewards those who sincerely seek him. Jesus himself said, "if you seek me you will find me." We have to remember, one of the first things Jesus told His followers was that they had to change the way they think and what they do. And not out of some religious obligation, but out of a revelation of their new life in Him. Staying open to reality that the Kingdom of God is in every born-again believer will change our approach completely concerning His church. Lets make sure we keep this out in front if us, the church is people, discovering, believing, embracing the reality that we belong to a different world, called to this one, for our windows of opportunity. And one of the greatest revelations every believer needs to be aware of is the fact that whenever, wherever we show up, Gods kingdom shows up. The company you work for is exposed to the kingdom of Heaven every day you show up. And every believer willing to embrace the grace God has given you will be the ones He uses to demonstrate His kingdom through. Those willing seek and follow Him are the ones He's leading right where He needs them. Something religion will never see is the reality that Jesus is the only one that makes us worthy of our new, God created kingdom. And this is why He tells us to resist the devil. Here's something every believer needs to stay aware of as we take steps of faith to follow Jesus, one of the enemy's most crippling powers is condemnation. But according to Romans 8, there is none for those of us who re in Christ, who walk according to the Sprit. This is why we have to be able to see what He's saying. His word has the power to bypass intelligence and speak directly to the heart of a human. This why Jesus told us in Matthew, "SEEK FIRST the kingdom of God and His righteousness." Here's the thing, His kingdom is a spiritual kingdom. It exists in the spirit. So if you're going to seek it first, that's where you're going to have to do your seeking. Think about this for a second, when Jesus told us that all our provisions would be taken care as long as we seek God's kingdom first; If I'm understanding Jesus correctly, all our provisions will come out of our new kingdom. I honestly don't thing we give our new lives in Christ, especially kingdom living the consideration it demands, Primarily because of religious, church traditions. And I'm convinced this is why Jesus told society that we must change how we think and what we do. And I get it, all this spiritual stuff is different, weird, doesn't make sense, but God's ways, His word, is not of this world. So it's going to be different. So until we leave this world, God still needs believers willing to demonstrate His kingdom to this world Jesus died for. This is why we can never underestimate the preaching of the gospel of the kingdom. It literally is the power of God unto salvation. That's why He told His closest followers; "the ability to understand the mysteries of the kingdom of Heaven have been given to you." Then He simply said, the kingdom of Heaven is like a seed a man sowed.You see what I'm saying
Let me tell you a true story…. I went down, down, down, into what felt like falling into a dark and narrow well. I couldn't stop myself and the walls were beyond my reach. It was like plunging into a void with no bottom. The longer I fell, the hotter it got. Suddenly, the fall into the well turned into a cavern that spread into an unending distance in every direction. I descended even further into the deep darkness and suffocating heat. I saw the gates of hell. It was an entranceway, but it was more sinister than anything I ever imagined. The gates looked so hideous that no one would ever dare to touch it. The creatures portrayed on the gates seemed to move with my approach. Guarding the gate were dreadful demon creatures with many heads and tails. They were there to forbid anyone from getting too close to the gates or from leaving them once someone entered them. As I approached the gateway, I could see on the other side the masses of human beings in a place of fire like a volcano of molten rock. The wails and screams coming from the people were overpowering. I felt all strength leave my limbs as I approached the excruciating heat. The people kept screaming out my name and telling me not to enter the gates, but I couldn't stop myself. An unseen evil power forced me forward through the barrier. People were burning up without dying. Fiery worms were crawling in and out of their never-dying bodies, and the stench of rotten burning flesh was nauseating! I kept vomiting, I didn't know what the ghoulish goo coming out of me was, but each time I threw up I writhed in excruciating pain, and then I hurled again. It never stopped. Ominous words above the gate were etched in hideous stones that glowed darkly with the reflection of hellish fire. The words leaped in giant relief, and a strange and utterly offensive substance oozed from each letter to the ground. I just glanced without reading, but the words read themselves to me and seared my mind like a branding iron. ALL WHO ENTER HERE WILL SUFFER THE FIRES OF HADES AND A FURTHER SECOND DEATH IN THE LAKE OF FIRE FOREVER AND EVER. YOU ARE ENTERING THE GARBAGE HEAP OF ALL REALMS, THE PLACE OF THE DEAD, THOSE DEAD TO GOD AND TO HIS SON. YOU ARE ABANDONED. NO PRAYERS ARE HEARD, AND THERE IS NO ESCAPE. I looked closer at the people as I passed through the pernicious gates. My eyesight was failing, and it got so black before me that I could no longer see my extremities. The only light I could see was a momentary glance as the fire burned me and the ghoulish worms ate me up. I could see people in the distance in suffering and torment that was unfathomable. I could hear their blood curdling screams of pain. Oh, the horrors! I could not communicate with them even as I screamed in pain. I felt the horrendous pain shoot through me over and over in never ending crescendos of hate, loneliness, and hopelessness. In all my life upon the earth, I never felt a chill darken my soul like this place of torment. I never felt the utter despair of eternal torment like I felt at that moment. All hope was gone. I would never see my family or friends, and I was hopelessly lost forever with no way out! Oh God, if only I could warn my family. If only I could tell my friends that there is heaven to gain and a very real hell to shun! Momentarily, I glanced up and saw the wretched beggar Lazarus that used to sit by my gate and beg for my help. I had so much in life, but I squandered my chance for deliverance by denying God and His commandments. Yet, what is this I see? Lazarus is seated next to somebody up there. Who is that? Suddenly, I knew! It is father Abraham! Maybe he will have mercy on me and send Lazarus to dip his finger in water and cool my tongue! I am tormented in these flames! I called desperately with all the strength I had, but no one answered. I could see them, and they looked happy. They were not in torment! Lazarus had on the most beautiful clothes I ever saw. “Father Abraham, please send Lazarus to me! Please send Lazarus to me!” I cried and screamed. No help came…. But then, there was a small window opened to me to where Abraham and Lazarus were… 19 “There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and fared sumptuously every day. 20 But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at his gate, 21 desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table. Moreover, the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 So it was that the beggar died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 And being in torments in Hades, he lifted his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24 “Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.' 25 But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. 26 And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.' 27 “Then he said, ‘I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father's house, 28 for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.' 29 Abraham said to him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.' 30 And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.' 31 But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.” (Luke 16:19-31 NKJV) That was not a parable. Parables were always stated in generalities and personal names were not used when telling them. Lazarus and that rich man were real people. The story was about two men in the area where Jesus was preaching. Jesus saw what happened to them after death in the unseen realm. Yes, I took creative license with the story and retold it with my own descriptions. Notice that it is still based on the Scriptural teaching about Hades, and then the final resting place of hell and death, the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, the place of eternal punishment. (See Revelation 20:10-15, 21:8.) Hades is a temporary holding cell until the final judgment, and the lake of fire is the eternal abode of the damned. Make no mistake about it, those in Hades will receive their final judgment and be thrown into the lake of fire. Once in Hades, it's bye-bye for eternity. Eternity has no end, just like it has no beginning. It is a horror beyond all horrors. Nothing can be compared on earth, regardless of the tragedy, to eternity in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone. I hear people all the time talk about the hell they went through. Others say they are going through hell. It's NOTHING compared to eternal separation in the place of eternal torment. Waiting until you die and are in hell's flames and torment for eternity are not the place to try to get out of hell! It would be too late to get out! There is no redo! Once a person dies it is judgement time! (Hebrews 9:27) Let me say it again in a slightly different way. There is an immediate judgment for each person that dies, and they are ushered into heaven in God's presence, or they are incarcerated in Hades. Hades is not the end for them. Something worse is coming that is called the Second Death or the eternal lake of fire and brimstone. People will be finally judged for their lives upon the earth and the records will reveal what they did against God and show that they rejected God's gift in Jesus. The way to get out of going to a devil's hell is by repentance if you are backslid or if you have never received Jesus as Lord and Savior. It all begins with repentance. Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:38 NKJV) Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord. (Acts 3:19 NKJV) The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree. Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. (Acts 5:30, 31 NKJV) Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. (Acts 8:22 NKJV) As a side note, this was addressed to Simon (Bar Jesus) who had already converted to the Lord. Acts 8:22 was addressed to a “born-again” and water-baptized Christian believer. Simon had allowed wickedness back into his heart and he needed to repent. Let's get it correctly in our thinking. Initial repentance of sin is a part of believing in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead and confessing Him as Lord (Romans 10:9). After that, if a Christian sins, we still have access to the eternal blood of Jesus to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (See 1 John 1:7-10, 2:1, 2.) Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent. (Acts 17:30 NKJV) …But declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. Acts 26:20 Yes, there is a heaven to gain by receiving what Jesus did for us through His sacrifice and by living for Him according to His Word and His moral guidelines. There is also a hell to shun. You do not want to perish and go there! God wants all people to repent so they don't perish! (2nd Peter 3:9, Luke 13:3, 5) Choose life (Jesus) so that you and your seed may live! Don't choose the curse, darkness, and eternal death brought on by rebellion to the Lord and His Word! (Deuteronomy 30:19,20; John 3:16) That is the ONLY way you get out of going to a devil's hell! Some may be thinking, “Oh but that is narrow thinking and way too exclusive. Don't you think that in God's mercy He provided many ways to get to Him?” Absolutely not! Jesus stated about Himself that He is the way, the truth, and the life, and that no one can come to God except through Him! (John 14:6) Read it and adjust your thinking to the truth. There are not hundreds of ways but ONLY one way to the Father, and His name is Jesus. Yes, it's a very narrow way. Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. (Matthew 7:13, 14 NKJV) It is so narrow that few there are that find it when you compare the broad way of the world of sin and darkness. Sadly, most human beings on the planet will go to hell, but you can be very happy and full of joy with the good news I am sharing with you today. You can avoid hell and gain God and all He provided through Jesus. Then, you can tell others about it if you are still alive on this earth. That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (Romans 10:9, 10 NKJV) After you do that, then there are everyday matters to live the Christian life. You must become obedient to God's Word and His MORAL commandments in Scripture. Making Jesus your Lord means that you submit to His Word and obey His moral commandments. Too many miss that part about living in obedience to the Word. 7 Those who keep on doing good and are looking for His greatness and honor will receive life that lasts forever. 8 Those who love only themselves and do not obey the truth, but do what is wrong, will be punished by God. His anger will be on them. (Romans 2:7, 8 NLV) The same verses in another translation: He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers. But he will pour out his anger and wrath on those who live for themselves, who refuse to obey the truth and instead live lives of wickedness... NLT And one more for the road: …praise, honor, and immortality to those who continue in doing good and seek eternal life; but to those who are rebellious, and reject the truth, and follow iniquity, will come indignation and wrath… NMB That is not Paul's teaching on salvation by works, but it is teaching about good works (obedience to God's commandments) and doing what is right according to God's truth- His Word (not YOUR truth) AFTER you receive Jesus as your Lord. That is probably one of the most misunderstood New Testament teachings. No, you didn't receive Jesus via good works. We received God's gift in Christ as the sacrifice for our sins, but there is more to it than that concerning eternal life. We must lay hold of eternal life so that it doesn't get away from us. (1st Timothy 6:12) Here's the issue. You stay saved by doing what is right according to the covenant AFTER your first encounter with Jesus as Lord and Savior. You don't receive Jesus and then live like a sinner every day. That would nullify in your life your initial reception of His salvation. It is a devilish idea that if you practice sin as a Christian that grace will cover your sin and you will still go to heaven WITHOUT repentance. Practicing sin without repentance and cleansing from that sin by the blood of Jesus will keep a person from inheriting the kingdom of God. Now the deeds of the flesh are clear: sexual immorality, impurity, indecency, idolatry, witchcraft, hostility, strife, jealousy, rage, selfish ambition, dissension, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these. I am warning you, just as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit God's kingdom. (Galatians 5:19-21 TLV) The New English Translation (NET) states the last sentence like this: “Those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God!” I found at least 12 other translations that use the word practice besides the NET, and some use the words indulge, continue, and live that way. That is the correct way that last sentence should be translated. If you have fallen for any of these things as a Christian, IF you repent, then you can still go to heaven or inherit the kingdom of God. These verses warn Christians that practicing or making a lifestyle out of any of these sins will cause a person to be left out of the kingdom of God. There will be no welcoming committee in heaven for the Christian that practices sin without repentance. Paul taught that, but it is not the only place he mentions that truth. Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived! The sexually immoral, idolaters, adulterers, passive homosexual partners, practicing homosexuals, thieves, the greedy, drunkards, the verbally abusive, and swindlers will not inherit the kingdom of God. (1st Corinthians 6:9-10 NET) I've heard the Biblically ignorant state, “That was speaking to the unrighteous, and in Christ Jesus I am righteous. So, that refers to the world and not to me.” Wrong! The context of these verses is Paul correcting Christians for defrauding fellow believers, and then it is followed by an exhortation commanding believers to flee from sexual immorality. The unrighteous in 1st Corinthians 6:9-10 is referring to the unrepentant Christian that has yielded to sin and continues to practice it. But if we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous, forgiving us our sins and cleansing us from all unrighteousness. (1st John 1:9 NET) John is speaking to fellow believers and what to do if we sin. After we confess our sins to the Lord, He will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all UNRIGHTOEUSNESS. Wait, but I thought that we were the righteousness of God in Christ! Why be cleansed from all UN-righteousness? It's really simple. The righteousness that a Christian has in Christ, that righteousness they received upon their salvation, is conditional and not automatic. Our right standing with God is always conditional. The Christian's position in that righteousness will be negatively impacted by unrighteous behavior, lawlessness, or sin. The person that sins must receive forgiveness and cleansing from that which is against righteousness. It is a dangerous place to remain in sin because it connects a person with the unrighteous. Paul warns that if a person stays there and continues to practice that sin, whatever it may be, they are going to be rejected from the kingdom (rule and reign) of God. That means that the practitioner of lawlessness (not subject and obedient to God's law or commandments of a moral nature) will hear the terrible words of rejection from the lips of the Lord in Matthew 7:23, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!” In case you have any question about what practicing lawlessness means: Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; indeed, sin is lawlessness. (1st John 3:4) Get straightened out with the following verses from any heretical mindset. It will work IF you will receive the Word of God on the subject. And because lawlessness (sin is lawlessness – 1st John 3:4) will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. (Matthew 24:12, 13 NKJV) Only those that serve the Lord and obey His Word to the end will be saved. Note the condition. He who endures to the end shall be saved. Salvation is conditional. Enduring to the end means that when the end comes, you will not be practicing sin or lawlessness. That should be clear enough, but there are many more verses, so I will give you a few more. But Christ as a Son over His own house, whose house we are IF we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm to the end… For we have become partakers of Christ IF we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end… (Hebrews 3:6, 14 NKJV) We are His house IF (it's conditional) we hold fast to the end! Wishy-washy Christians that die in their sins are left out of this equation. The unrepentant Christian is left out. The other conditional statement in verse 14 about salvation is as clear as the first one in verse 6. We are partakers of Christ IF we hold fast the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end. In other words, and so that there are no mistakes in interpretation, it is not only how we began our life in Christ when we first believed, but it is how we wind up at the end of our lives (“to the end”). That is the moment of judgment, either to an eternal separation from God, or to an eternal bliss in the presence of the Lord. Again, note the conditional statements concerning our salvation. Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, IF you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. (1st Corinthians 15:1, 2 NIV) You are saved by the gospel only IF you hold firmly to that Word. If you don't, then your believing is in vain! I feel sorry for those that continue to espouse a damnable once-saved-always-saved heretical theology! Salvation in Christ is conditional! It always has been conditional and always will be. The next few verses will overturn the devilish thinking that that one can practice sin without responsibility or consequences. Let me set up the next verse by asking the question, “Is Jesus the author of eternal salvation for everybody?” …He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him. (Hebrews 5:9 NKJV) Nobody gets eternal salvation except those that obey Jesus! Here is another statement on the subject from the lips of Jesus: Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?' And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!' (Matthew 7:21-23 NKJV) You can't practice lawlessness and expect to hear, “Welcome to heaven and have a glorious eternity!” Be very cautious with these verses. They are no-nonsense. Even if you confessed His Lordship, and even had a part in supernatural ministry, but then reneged on your faith and practiced wickedness without repentance, you will hear the terrible words from the Master, “I never knew you; depart from me, you who practice lawlessness!” Do we see an immediate example of that in the Gospels? Yes, we see that happening to Judas Iscariot. He was sent and anointed by Jesus as an apostle, ministered supernaturally (Matthew 10:1-8), but he betrayed Jesus and was lost for eternity because he never repented and turned from his wickedness and committed suicide. (See Matthew 26:14-16; 27:3-5) Matthew 27:3 says that when Judas saw what he had done and realized he was condemned that he was remorseful for his sin. Being remorseful or feeling bad over your sin may be a part of repentance, but real repentance turns away from wickedness, turns back to God, and seeks His forgiveness and cleansing from it. I wrote that last part of the sentence in bold and italics to emphasize what real repentance does. Look at the awful things king David did in the Bathsheba incident (Second Samuel chapters 11 and 12). He committed premeditated murder, theft, adultery, treachery, covetousness, lying, and probably a host of other sins. Talk about being guilty, David messed up in ways that many have never done, and yet he was forgiven and restored. See Psalms 51 for David's prayer of repentance and petitioning God for forgiveness and cleansing. It reminds us of 1 John 1:8-10! Most likely John had Psalms 51 in mind when writing 1 John 1:9. David's restoration and forgiveness were so complete that he married Bathsheba. God blessed the union because Bathsheba was the mother of king Solomon, the very blood line from where Messiah came! Wow! No matter what sins you committed, there can be complete and total forgiveness, cleansing, and restoration. David and Bathsheba are great examples of that truth. They are a demonstration of the great love, compassion, and grace of God! Now, compare that to king Saul and how he was confronted on a few occasions for his sins (ex. 1st Samuel 26). There was no real repentance. He only had remorse and the sorrow as the world feels when they do something wrong. He wound up visiting a medium (1st Samuel 28), never repenting of sins, and he died by falling on his own sword (1st Samuel 31). Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing. For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. (2nd Corinthians 7:9-10 NKJV) Feelings of sorrow like the world has only leads to death. That is what happened to Saul and Judas Iscariot. Godly sorrow that leads to a real repentance is what works. That is what David had! Here is an important instruction about those that truly know the Lord. Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. (1st John 2:3-5 NKJV) Keeping or obeying His commandments is at the center of knowing the Lord when you are a Christian. A Christian that lives in a consistent breaking or violation of God's commandments does not know the Lord. I am speaking about those commandments in Scripture that reveal living moral or righteous life before God. I am not referring to any commandment in Scripture exclusively given to Israel or commanded concerning the Levitical priesthood, Temple worship, animal sacrifice, feasts and festivals, and other ceremonial type commandments. Do you know what I am referring to? If you have not been taught about the clear distinction in the Bible between moral and ceremonial commandments, you must be taught it correctly. Here is my Scriptural contribution on this important subject. It's a free 62-page PDF document. Get it here: Did the Grace of God Cancel Biblical Commandments? Paul, when writing to the Corinthian church, stated it like this: Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but obeying God's commandments is everything. (1st Corinthians 7:19 ISV) The true follower of Jesus is described in Revelation 14:12 (NET) in this way: This requires the steadfast endurance of the saints—those who obey God's commandments and hold to their faith in Jesus. There you also have the true definition of a “saint”. It's not one canonized by the Catholic church. A saint is the one that is steadfast and enduring in their obedience to God's commandments and holds to their faith in Jesus. No canonization is needed! Once you make up your mind to be a follower of Jesus for the rest of your life, the next thing is to be baptized in water as evidence of your glorious decision for the Lord. (Acts 2:38; 1st Peter 3:21 NET) Then, you MUST find a church that never closed their doors for the Covid tyrannical nonsense and refused to open the door to the spirit of antichrist. If possible, you should be a part of a church that NEVER caved to the Covid mess. (Hebrews 10:26) The only way I would ever go to a church that bowed their knee to the Covid mess would be IF the pastor publicly repents for yielding to the devil! Here are my non-sanctioned advertisements for two churches in my immediate surroundings that I truly admire and love for their stand on the Word. In about 5 counties in Southwest Florida, only two churches (out of over 400) never closed, masked, gelled, social distanced, and have completely refused the death jabs (so called vaccines). You can watch these powerful ministries every week online. These are hero churches. All the rest that closed their doors are weak, cowardly, capitulating churches that you can learn NOTHING from them except caving to evil government demands. Unless they repent, avoid them like the plague because they will cave again! Don't be fooled because many are online speaking naturally without the power of the Holy Spirit. Many were closed for months and have reopened to find out that their congregations are a fraction of what they were. Get involved with powerful non-caving and non-compromising churches here: The River Church International https://www.revival.com/ https://www.youtube.com/user/rodneyhowardbrowne/videos Note: This church closed for 8 weeks at the very beginning of the Covid lockdowns in 2020, not because of fearing a 99.9% survivable disease, but because the pastor refused to cave to local authorities when ordered to close the church, and he was arrested. The lying news media smeared the pastor and the church mercilessly. The church phone lines, email, Facebook page, etc., received about 100 thousand death threats from crazed idiots. The church opened back up eight weeks later with a solid plan to protect its members from the demon-possessed crazies. The church began to grow exponentially, and it has not stopped! The Foundation Church https://www.foundationchurchfl.com/ The pastor of the foundation church has 2 Sunday services, and three Bible-based/facts-based/political podcasts weekly. You can get straightened out with the pastor's well documented programs: The Tom Laipply Podcasts. I watch them on Rumble, but you can also get them through his podcast website here: https://tomlaipply.com/ https://rumble.com/c/tomlaipply Other ways to connect: https://tv.gab.com/channel/tomlaipply/ We are at a very big crossroad in America. We must form our own parallel society, band together, and refuse to comply with the totalitarian and communist government mandates at every level. Christians and true conservatives (no RINO's need apply) that feel led to do so must run for local government offices and get elected. That is one powerful way to remove demon inspired nut jobs in government that believe its OK to murder the unborn in a mother's womb, believe in open borders, a weak military, vaccine mandates and masking, woke-ness, LGBTQ agendas, and have surrendered to totalitarianism and communism! It is time to rise in defense of America and to fight for our Constitution and Bill of Rights. Our constitutional republic has been sidelined under the Biden regime, and we must take it back! We must defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic! Leave all social, oligarchy-controlled, and demonic media TODAY! Get on Gab, Frank Speech, Rumble, and on other conservative social media. Stop listening to the lying communist news media (including all alphabet news media: ABC, NBC, MSNBC, CNN, CBS, etc.) and hook into many non-traditional and conservative news sources. Frankly, with the exception of Tucker Carlson and a few other true conservatives, FOX has also become unwatchable. Get out of big, woke, ungodly mobile carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, etc. and get into Patriot Mobile which supports, according to their website, “First Amendment Religious Freedom and Freedom of Speech, Second Amendment Right to Bear Arms, Sanctity of Life and the needs of our Veterans and First Responders”. Quit buying from businesses that support the lying Biden regime, CDC, the garden gnome with family ties to Gollum-"Antonio Fauccino", CRT, Antifa, Liberal, Communist, BLM, and LBGTQ (etc.) agendas. Buy American and buy local as much as possible. Support your local farmers by buying their products. Don't give a single penny to those that hate Christians and conservative agendas and concerns. You may not be able to do all that overnight, but you can start right now and have much accomplished within the next few days! Don't be fooled by the liars in government, big pharma, the CDC, fake news MSM and take their death jab! Get well informed here: nojabforme.info! I used to give my own investigation and sources but this website has over 400 links to source material. No need to reinvent the wheel! Go to that website. When you see all the vaccine mandates and passports around the world, the restriction on travel, buying, selling, working, etc., does it not shake you up that we are seeing the very beginnings of a system of antichrist global control being pushed upon the world's population? 16 And he causes all, the small and the great, the rich and the poor, and the free and the slaves, to be given a mark on their right hands or on their foreheads, 17 and he decrees that no one will be able to buy or to sell, except the one who has the mark, either the name of the beast or the number of his name. 18 Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for the number is that of a man; and his number is six hundred and sixty-six. (Revelation 13:16-18 NASB) I am not saying that it is the mark of the beast. I am saying that at least it is a preparation stage for the future mark to be revealed. If we take a stand against this tyranny, Satan will be exposed and have to back off the full global control through his mark preparation strategy. The so-called pandemic is really a planned global false medical emergency to control the masses and bring them under a globalist-elitist control and subservience. The good news is the world is beginning to resist very strongly and boldly, and Satan's plan is being restrained. It is not his time yet for global control. It was a test, and the world (including most Christians and churches) bowed to a lie, proving that the planet is almost ready for the antichrist and his mark. The church, with the power of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, and the rest of the planet's population that refuses the tyranny being unleashed in the name of a false pandemic, are the earth's last line of defense. The Church by the power of God is standing in the way of Satan's antichrist agenda, unless we cave! (See 2nd Thessalonians 2:1-12 New International Version- NIV.) If we yield our ground to the enemy, it is all over for the world. The church can advance and take back territory lost by yielding to the enemy when they closed their doors in 2020 and 2021. If we stand as the Body of Christ, we can turn this globalist mess around and restore freedom around us. That is, UNTIL we are done with our mission on planet earth. Once the Lord says the mission is over, a great resurrection of the godly dead and a physical transformation of those alive will occur, and all the ones separated unto the Lord Jesus (saints) will be caught up to meet Him in the air and be with Him forever! (See 1st Thessalonians 4:16-18 NIV, 1st Corinthians 15:50-53.) By "our mission", I mean that we fulfill the words of Jesus in Mark 16:15-19, Matthew 28:18-20, and also in the following verses of Scripture. 12 And because lawlessness is increased, most people's love will become cold. 13 But the one who endures to the end is the one who will be saved. 14 This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come. (Matthew 24:12-14 NASB) Listen to the following podcast about the connection between faith and forgiveness taught by Jesus in Mark 11:22-26. Often, people have stuff in the way of receiving from the Lord, and unforgiveness is one BIG hindrance that must be removed for faith to work! Be mightily blessed with the teaching of God's Word!
The Church Year ends today and we hear Jesus testify, "Surely I am coming quickly."" The Church responds praying: "Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus! "(Rev 22:20 NKJV) As the Bride of Christ the Christian Church awaits her Bridegroom - Jesus Christ. Sermon Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11. Sermon Theme: "Sons of Light! Shine Forth!" preached for the Last Sunday of the Church Year, 21-Novmember-2021, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Tell City, Indiana by Rev. Nathan J. Rusert.
Gifts of the Holy Spirit Matthew 16:18 (ESV)“I will build My church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” 1 Corinthians 12:1 (NIV)“Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed…” 1 Corinthians 12:7 (NIV)“Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” “A spiritual gift is an ability that is empowered by the Holy Spirit and used to bless and equip other believers, to witness to unbelievers, to destroy the works of Satan and to highlight and give glory to the work and person of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 4:10 (NKJV)“As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” Ephesians 4:12 (NIV)“For building up the body of Christ…” Numbers 11:29 (NIV)“I wish that all the Lord's people were prophets and that the Lord would put His Spirit on them!” Joel 2:28-29 (ESV)“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out My Spirit.” The church was given the power and gifts of the Holy Spirit to finish what Jesus started. 1. Jesus came to undo what satan and sin had done to humanity. Luke 4:16-19 (ESV)“He (Jesus) stood up to read. And the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to Him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written, ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.'” 1 John 3:8 (ESV)“Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.” Matthew 10:7-8 (ESV)“The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons.” 2. The power and gifts of the Holy Spirit are to equip the church to carry out its ministry until Jesus returns. 1 Corinthians 1:7 (ESV)“You are not lacking in any gift, as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 14:12 (ESV)“Since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church.”1 Corinthians 14:1 (ESV)“Pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts.”
Life is good for the one who is generous and charitable, conducting affairs with honesty and truth. Psalms 112:5 TPT Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 “I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. “But you ask, ‘How are we to return?' Malachi 3:6-7 NIV “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?' Malachi 3:8 NIV “In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. Malachi 3:8-9 NIV Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty. “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty. Malachi 3:10-12 NIV 3 UNDERSTANDINGS ABOUT TITHING 1. TITHING IS A TEST Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. Malachi 3:10 NIV 2. TITHING IS BIBLICAL Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram, saying, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And praise be to God Most High, who delivered your enemies into your hand.” Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything. Genesis 14:18-20 NIV this memorial pillar I have set up will become a place for worshiping God, and I will present to God a tenth of everything he gives me. Genesis 28:22 One-tenth of the produce of the land, whether grain from the fields or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord and must be set apart to him as holy. Leviticus 27:30 And it shall be, when you come into the land which the Lord your God is giving you as an inheritance, and you possess it and dwell in it, you shall take some of the first of all the produce of the ground, which you shall bring from your land that the Lord your God is giving you, and put it in a basket and go to the place where the Lord your God chooses to make His name abide. Deuteronomy 26:1-2 NKJV then you shall say before the Lord your God: ‘I have removed the holy tithe from my house, and also have given them to the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, according to all Your commandments which You have commanded me; I have not transgressed Your commandments, nor have I forgotten them. I have not eaten any of it when in mourning, nor have I removed any of it for an unclean use, nor given any of it for the dead. I have obeyed the voice of the Lord my God, and have done according to all that You have commanded me. Deuteronomy 26:13-14 NKJV Look down from Your holy habitation, from heaven, and bless Your people Israel and the land which You have given us… Deuteronomy 26:15 NKJV “What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are careful to tithe even the tiniest income from your herb gardens, but you ignore the more important aspects of the law—justice, mercy, and faith. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things. Mathew 23:23 3. TITHING IS A BLESSING Moreover he commanded the people who dwelt in Jerusalem to contribute support for the priests and the Levites, that they might devote themselves to the Law of the Lord. 2 Chronicles 31:4 NKJV As soon as the commandment was circulated, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of grain and wine, oil and honey, and of all the produce of the field; and they brought in abundantly the tithe of everything. And the children of Israel and Judah, who dwelt in the cities of Judah, brought the tithe of oxen and sheep; also the tithe of holy things which were consecrated to the Lord their God they laid in heaps. In the third month they began laying them in heaps, and they finished in the seventh month. 2 Chronicles 31:5-7 NKJV And when Hezekiah and the leaders came and saw the heaps, they blessed the Lord and His people Israel. Then Hezekiah questioned the priests and the Levites concerning the heaps. And Azariah the chief priest, from the house of Zadok, answered him and said, “Since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the Lord, we have had enough to eat and have plenty left, for the Lord has blessed His people; and what is left is this great abundance. 2 Chronicles 31:8-10 NKJV If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:25-26
Psalm 103:1-4Praise the LORD, my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name. Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all His benefits — who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion.Colossians 2:6-7 (NKJV)As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.Isaiah 12:4-5 (NASB)And on that day you will say, "Give thanks to the LORD, call on His name. Make known His deeds among the peoples; make them remember that His name is exalted." Praise the LORD in song, for He has done glorious things; let this be known throughout the earth.
Colossians 2:6-7 (NKJV)As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.Isaiah 12:4-5 (NASB)And on that day you will say, "Give thanks to the LORD, call on His name. Make known His deeds among the peoples; make them remember that His name is exalted." Praise the LORD in song, for He has done glorious things; let this be known throughout the earth.Hebrews 12:28Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our "God is a consuming fire."
Hello and welcome to the show today! The First Missionary to Gentiles— In chapter 10 of our study of the book of Acts, we have encountered a Roman Centurion by the name of Cornelius; a man full of good works living the best way that he knew how. But he did not yet know about Jesus. And so God has sent Peter to him and to his entire household, who have gathered to hear the wonderful news that not only has God's salvation come in the person of Jesus Christ, but that that salvation is available to even them, even though they are Gentiles. Now this would mean some radical changes for Cornelius and his household; changes would radically affect their views of God, their way of worship, and ultimately their mission and purposes. And this would fly in the face of many of the customs and elements of their culture that had become the norm for them. Paul (the first real missionary to the Gentiles) had set into motion something that would radically change them and their culture. Below The Surface— And you know missionaries are often criticized for this very reason; for imposing their religion and way of doing things on other cultures. Sometimes it's even painted as if missionaries are the ones who come in and destroy culture. Now we know that that is devilish propaganda. Yes, you might have a few bad apples here and there, but for the most part missionaries have made a world of positive difference in the various cultures they have touched, bringing hope, healing, education, and so much more. I have been to a lot of places in the world where the the main religion(s) is a false religion. And there is often beautiful artistry and fascinating tradition connected with it. But what we have to remember is that just because a religion may be beautiful on the outside and there may be gorgeous religious icons and captivating rituals that have become a part of a nation's heritage, that doesn't mean that things are beautiful below the surface. Don't believe me? Start asking the followers of those religions questions like, “Where do you believe you are going to go when you die?” “If you believe in heaven, how do you believe you can get there?” “In your belief system, is it possible for you to even know if you are going there?” And what you'll find is that in no other religion can you truly know that you are going to heaven. Why? Because they are all works-based; and you can never know if you have done enough to earn your way there. And so you can never really have peace. It is only Christianity that requires works as a result of salvation; not as the means of salvation. And it is only after salvation that works can be truly good anyways because we can finally perform good works without the selfish motivation for personal salvation. But if we are to receive salvation first, then our sins must be paid for in advance; hence our need for Christ. Only He was good enough to be a sacrifice for our sins and so it is only in and through Him that we can be saved. And that's why it doesn't matter how devout Cornelius is; how good his works are. It is only in Jesus that we can experience deliverance from sin and have eternal life. And Peter knows this, which is why he is about to share with all these men and women about the person of Jesus. It says… Acts 10:34-35 (NKJV)— 34 Then Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. 35 But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him. God Accepts All Who Fear Him— I love how Peter starts with what God was teaching him right at that time; and that is that God will receive any person from any nation who fears Him and works righteousness. Now it may seem from verse 35 that Peter is preaching salvation by works. However, we will see in verse 43 just the opposite, as he will proclaim that salvation only comes though belief in Jesus. And so the phrase “fears Him {(God)} and works righteousness” is a description of the outflow of a Christian's life. It is the outward sign that the inward work has been accomplished. Now Peter's audience had heard a good bit about Jesus already, which is why Peter says in… Acts 10:36-43 (NKJV)— 36 The word which God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ—He is Lord of all— 37 that word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee after the baptism which John preached: 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem, whom they killed by hanging on a tree. 40 Him God raised up on the third day, and showed Him openly, 41 not to all the people, but to witnesses chosen before by God, even to us who ate and drank with Him after He arose from the dead. 42 And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead. 43 To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins.” The Shortest Sermon— Now this is perhaps one of the shortest sermons ever preached, and yet it had everything that Cornelius and his family and friends needed to know. Jesus is Lord of all (which speaks to both His divinity, but also His availability; He is Lord of all ); He had led a perfect life of servanthood and obedience before God; He died on the cross, was raised on the third day, many (including Peter) were witnesses of this; Jesus' life, death, and resurrection fulfilled the Old Testament Scriptures concerning the Messiah; and salvation through remission of sins is available to whoever believes in Him. You can't get more basic than that. And similarly, when you and I share Christ, we need to remember that we don't need to be long to be effective. All we need to do is allow ourselves to (like Peter) be led by the Spirit and do what we can to center our message on the person and work of Christ, the Way, the Truth, and The Life. Laying Hold of “whoever”— Now these men and women immediately reacted to Peter's sermon, particularly laying hold of that word whoever. They immediately recognize Christ's availability to them, receive Him in faith, and are saved. And Peter no doubt intended to continue his sermon; he was just getting started. But the greatest thing that can happen while preaching happens. It says in… Acts 10:44 (NKJV)— 44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. Peter Interrupted— What an awesome thing when God breaks in! But you know, Peter was probably kind of getting used to God interrupting him. You will remember that [God the Father interrupted Peter on the Mount of Transfiguration (Matt. 17:4–5), and God the Son interrupted him in the matter of the temple tax (Matt. 17:24–27). Now, God the Spirit interrupted him—] Peter was interrupted by every member of the Trinity. But you, know, it is a good thing when God interrupts. Would that every sermon be interrupted with an outpouring of the Spirit of God. And it says than in response to this… Acts 10:45-46a (NKJV)— 45 And those of the circumcision {(the Jews)} who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. A 2nd Pentecost— And so the six Jews who came with Peter as witnesses suddenly became witness to the Holy Spirt, who was Himself bearing witness that God (through faith in Christ) had accepted these Gentile believers. And this was important because remember that they had not been privy to the vision of Peter. And so God needed to enact a second Pentecost so that these Jews could see that God had indeed put these new Gentile believers on equal footing with them. This is why God empowered these Gentiles also to speak in tongues. This doesn't mean that every believer will receive the gift of tongues. It was merely a way for God to prove without question that the same Spirit that had been poured out on the Jews was also on the Gentiles. And [With this event, the period of transition in the early history of the church comes to an end. Believers among the Jews, Samaritans, and Gentiles have all received the Spirit of God and are united in the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:13; Gal. 3:27).] And it says in… Acts 10:46b-48a (NKJV)— Then Peter answered, 47 “Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. The Salvation Process— Now this passage shows us very clearly the process of salvation. We hear the Word, we place our faith in Christ, we receive the Holy Spirit, and then we are baptized as an outward sign of that inward work. These men and women were not baptized in order to obtain salvation, but rather [they were baptized because they gave evidence of being saved.] The Holy Spirit had already been given to them. And we know that the Holy Spirit is only given to those who are in Christ Jesus. Now following salvation, something else ought always to take place; and it takes place here. They [unite with other believers in the church to serve and worship God.] And that begins right here, where it says… Acts 10:48b (NKJV)— Then they asked him {(Peter)} to stay a few days. The Chain of Discipleship— And so Peter tarries there in Caesarea to help ground these new believers in their faith. And Philip (who remember was already in Caesarea) may have joined him in this task of discipleship. But there they are, doing what neither of them could have ever imagined themselves doing; discipling Gentiles who would go and disciple other Gentiles who would go and disciples other Gentiles. And you and I are part of that glorious chain of discipleship. The question is, who are we going to bring the good news to? Who are we going to make disciples for Jesus? Debtors— P.F. Bresee, founder of the Church of Nazarene once said this: "We are debtors to every man to give him the gospel in the same measure in which we have received it.” How beautiful are your feet?— Let me ask you a personal question. Any of you gotten a pedicure lately? Men, you don't have to answer. Any of you ladies get a pedicure lately? How do your feet feel after you get a pedicure? How do they look? When my wife has gotten pedicures, her feet are always extra soft afterwards; the calluses are gone; the toenails are all shiny and colored, sometimes even with sparkles. I mean they are just beautiful! But do you know there is such a thing as a Biblical pedicure? It's right here in… Romans 10:15b (NKJV)— As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!” Beautiful Feet— You want your feet to be truly beautiful in the eyes of God? Use them to bring to others the good news of Jesus Christ. Present and future generations are relying on your feet; on my feet; to bring them this message of life. In this very passage in Romans Paul asks… Romans 10:14-15a (NKJV)— 14 How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach unless they are sent? Eternity Without— You know, it was once estimated that [158,857 people die each day with approximately 66,000 of those people dying each day having had no access to the Gospel. According to those numbers, every 15 minutes (the length of our broadcast today) 1,654 people will die.] How many of them will enter an eternity without Jesus? In Time— Carl F.H. Henry once pointed out that “The gospel is only good news if it gets there in time.” Our Part— Now you and I can't reach every person. But the Church of Christ is called to try. And (as Keith Green once said) "This generation of Christians is responsible for this generation of souls on the earth!” You may not reach the masses; but you may be able to reach somebody. There is somebody out there right now that God is preparing for you to introduce to Jesus. The question is, “Are you ready to play the part God wants you to play in that person's journey towards salvation?" Called To Missions— And you know, one of the things we also learn from this story is that you don't have to go overseas to be a missionary, though God may want you to. But you can be a missionary right here in Renton, Washington. But no matter where God has placed you, He has called you to be a missionary. And the closer you draw to Jesus, the more you will recognize that call upon your life. The More Missionary— Henry Martyn, who was a missionary to both India and Persia, once said “The spirit of Christ is the spirit of missions. The nearer we get to Him, the more intensely missionary we become." And you know, he's right. At Least One Person— Many of you have heard of Dwight L. Moody. Well, [D.L. Moody made an covenant with God that he would witness for Christ to at least one person each day. One night, about ten o-clock, he realized that he had not yet witnessed; so he went out in to the street and spoke to a man standing by a lamppost, asking him, "Are you a Christian?" The man flew into a violent rage and threatened to knock Moody into the gutter. Later, that same man went to an elder in the church and complained that Moody was "doing more harm in Chicago than ten men were doing good." The elder begged Moody to temper his zeal with knowledge. Three months later, Moody was awakened at the YMCA by a man knocking at the door. It was the man he had witnessed to. "I want to talk to you about my soul," he said to Moody. He apologized for the way he had treated Moody and said that he had had no peace ever since that night on Lake Street when Moody witnessed to him. Moody led the man to Christ and he became a zealous worker in the Sunday school.] Our Feet Are Needed— Now just think; what would have happened if Moody had looked at his watch that evening and (seeing the time) just decided to let this one slide? A life would have failed to be touched. The message of the gospel is a powerful thing. But it needs our feet. And even if somebody rejects you, the power of the seed of the gospel you planted can still do its work. All we have to do is be faithful to plant and God will yield the increase. And so let us be faithful to be obedient ambassadors for Christ. Amen.
Psalms 42:1-2 NKJV “As the deer pants for the water brooks, So pants my soul for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?”
Hello everyone thank you for listening to Reaching Out Radio International. We are working together in love and unity, in one mind one accord as the body of Jesus Christ sharing the Gospel into the world. We will never add to or take away from the word of God, we share the true message of the cross. Tonights program is, In the Word with Sister Pearl. She will sharing a mess age titled, "Christ in the Beatitudes (or Blessedness)" Tonight, we are going to take a closer look at Christ's Sermon on the Mount, known as The Beatitudes or the Blessedness, found in Matthew 5:3-12 It is quite amazing how very differently Christ's perspective is than the ideas and thoughts of mere, unregenerate mankind. No wonder the prophet Isaiah stated, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. 9 “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.” - Isaiah 55:8-9 (NKJV) As people who want to please and follow God, we need to have His perspective and not ours. His ways always lead us to life in Him, while our's lead us away from Him. God wants us to live and experience a truly blessed life. Let's look into His precious word together to better understand what it is to truly be blessed. We thank you for your continued prayers and support as we share the Gospel into the world, God Bless You!
Being a Man of God in an Ungodly Culture Joshua 24:14-15 (NKJV)“Fear the Lord, serve Him in sincerity and in truth, and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the River and in Egypt. Serve the Lord! And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” The man of God… 1. Accepts that he is accountable to God for his family. 2. Chooses daily to submit to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and to the Word of God. “Serve the Lord! And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve…as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” James 1:17 (NIV)“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” Isaiah 3:12 (NKJV)“As for My people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O My people! Those who lead you cause you to err, and destroy the way of your paths.” 3. Is the protector of those God has assigned under his care. “Whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Ephesians 5:11 (NIV)“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”
On this episode, the focal scripture is ROMANS 5:17-19 (NKJV) As read by @panebiwilson Thank you MOG for this Word God bless you!
(II Sam 6; 2 Corinth 13:5; John 14:23) Obed-edom's life's narrative changed! His story changed as king David decided to take the ark of God into his house out of fear. Obed-edom became a wonder. The Lord blessed him. The Lord blessed his household and all that pertains unto him because of the Ark. The Ark of God represents God's presence. The entrance of the ark of God in the house of Obed-edom automatically means God dwells in the household. And you can not host God and be the same. Your story can be re-written too, in a glorious way. God's goodness is available to us. As Christ believers, it is God's plan to dwell, live in us so as to showcase His goodness and glory. What do we need to do? Acknowledge the presence of His Holy Spirit. In 2 Corinthians 13:5, the apostle Paul asks the “Test and evaluate yourselves to see whether you are in the faith and living your lives as [committed] believers. Examine yourselves [not me]! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves [by an ongoing experience] that Jesus Christ is in you—unless indeed you fail the test and are rejected as counterfeit?” 2 Corinthians 13:5 AMP Love Jesus; obey His Word “Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.” John 14:23 NKJV As you make it an habit to always acknowledge God's presence in your life, love Him and obey His Word, He will help you to change the narrative of your life because you will see Him as your Wisdom, Guide, Teacher - your EVERYTHING. Let's pray Thank you for choosing to live in me. I choose to depend on the help of Your Holy Spirit to study your Word. I choose to depend on your Holy Spirit to live to please you in all things in Jesus' name. Amen --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/abimbola-arawande/message
The gods of self are terrible taskmasters.- Self-centeredness never gets enough attention. Self-satisfaction never is content. And self-protection never feels secure.- Only when these false gods are put to death does a soul made for relationship with God find purpose, satisfaction and confidence in Him alone.- But how are these false gods killed-- -So you, by the help of your God, return- observe mercy and justice, and wait on your God continually,- Hosea 12-6 -NKJV-- As the Lord of heaven's armies prepared to judge His people, Israel, He tenderly invited them to follow the same restorative path as their patriarch, Jacob.- God graciously offers this same path to His self-preoccupied people today.- We hope to see you here this Sunday as we continue our study in Hosea with, -God's Loyal Love- Return, Observe, Wait.-
Dave MorhmannRevelation 3:14-19 (NKJV) And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, 'These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: 15 I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. 17 Because you say, 'I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing'--and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore, be zealous and repent.Matthew 6:33 (NKJV) But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.James 4:4 (NKJV) Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.1 John 2:15 (NKJV) Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. Revelation 11:15 (NKJV) Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!"Revelation 3:19 (NKJV) As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.Proverbs 13:18 (NKJV) Poverty and shame will come to him who disdains correction, But he who regards a rebuke will be honored. Matthew 16:24-25 (NKJV) Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.1 Peter 1:7 (NKJV) that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,Revelation 19:8 (NKJV) And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.Matthew 3:8 (NLT) Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God.Ephesians 1:18 (NKJV) The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints.1 John 1:9 (NKJV) If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.Acts 3:19 (NKJV) Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord2 Corinthians 7:10 (NKJV) For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.Psalm 38:18 (NKJV)18 For I will declare my iniquity; I will be in anguish over my sin. Proverbs 28:13 (NKJV)13 He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.Acts 26:18 (NKJV)18 to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.’
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARE UNDER ATTACK 1. RECOGNIZE THAT YOU ARE IN A BATTLE Psalm 42:3, NKJV My tears have been my food day and night, while they continually say to me, “Where is your God?” Psalm 42:9, NKJV I will say to God my Rock, “Why have You forgotten me? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?” Psalm 42:10, NKJV As with a breaking of my bones, my enemies reproach me, while they say to me all day long, “Where is your God?” 2. STOP LISTENING TO YOURSELF Psalm 42:4, NKJV When I remember these things, I pour out my soul within me. Psalm 42:5, NKJV Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? 3. START TALKING TO YOURSELF Psalm 42:5, NKJV Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance. Psalm 131:2, NKJV Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul, Like a weaned child with his mother; Like a weaned child is my soul within me. 4. GO TO GOD Psalm 42:1, NKJV As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God. Psalm 42:2, NKJV My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God? Psalm 42:4, NKJV For I used to go with the multitude; I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept a pilgrim feast. Psalm 42:5, NKJV Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance. Psalm 42:11, NKJV Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God. Psalm 42:8, NKJV The Lord will command His lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night His song shall be with me—a prayer to the God of my life.
2 Thessalonians 3:6-18 New King James Version Warning Against Idleness 6 But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which [a]he received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you; 8 nor did we eat anyone’s bread [b]free of charge, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, 9 not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us. 10 For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. 11 For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. 12 Now those who are such we command and [c]exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread. 13 But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good. 14 And if anyone does not obey our word in this [d]epistle, note that person and do not keep company with him, that he may be ashamed. 15 Yet do not count him as an enemy, but [e]admonish him as a brother. Benediction 16 Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with you all. 17 The salutation of Paul with my own hand, which is a sign in every [f]epistle; so I write. 18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. Under authority John 5:30 (NKJV) “I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me. John 6:38 (NKJV) “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. John 7:28 (NKJV) Then Jesus cried out, as He taught in the temple, saying, “You both know Me, and you know where I am from; and I have not come of Myself, but He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know. John 4:34 (NKJV) Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work. John 5:23 (NKJV) “that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. John 5:24 (NKJV) “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life. John 5:30 (NKJV) “I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me. John 5:36 (NKJV) “But I have a greater witness than John’s; for the works which the Father has given Me to finish--the very works that I do--bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me. John 5:37 (NKJV) “And the Father Himself, who sent Me, has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form. John 5:38 (NKJV) “But you do not have His word abiding in you, because whom He sent, Him you do not believe. John 6:29 (NKJV) Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.” John 6:38 (NKJV) “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. John 6:39 (NKJV) “This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. John 6:40 (NKJV) “And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 6:44 (NKJV) “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. John 6:57 (NKJV) “As the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, so he who feeds on Me will live because of Me. John 7:16 (NKJV) Jesus answered them and said, “My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me. John 7:18 (NKJV) “He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him. John 7:28 (NKJV) Then Jesus cried out, as He taught in the temple, saying, “You both know Me, and you know where I am from; and I have not come of Myself, but He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know. John 7:29 (NKJV) “But I know Him, for I am from Him, and He sent Me.” John 7:33 (NKJV) Then Jesus said to them, “I shall be with you a little while longer, and [then] I go to Him who sent Me. John 8:16 (NKJV) “And yet if I do judge, My judgment is true; for I am not alone, but I [am] with the Father who sent Me. John 8:18 (NKJV) “I am One who bears witness of Myself, and the Father who sent Me bears witness of Me.” John 8:26 (NKJV) “I have many things to say and to judge concerning you, but He who sent Me is true; and I speak to the world those things which I heard from Him.” John 8:29 (NKJV) “And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him.” John 8:42 (NKJV) Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me. John 9:4 (NKJV) “I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; [the] night is coming when no one can work. John 11:42 (NKJV) “And I know that You always hear Me, but because of the people who are standing by I said [this,] that they may believe that You sent Me.” John 12:44 (NKJV) Then Jesus cried out and said, “He who believes in Me, believes not in Me but in Him who sent Me. John 12:45 (NKJV) “And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me. John 12:49 (NKJV) “For I have not spoken on My own [authority;] but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. John 13:20 (NKJV) “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who receives whomever I send receives Me; and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me.” John 14:24 (NKJV) “He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me. John 15:21 (NKJV) “But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me. John 16:5 (NKJV) “But now I go away to Him who sent Me, and none of you asks Me, ‘Where are You going?’ John 17:3 (NKJV) “And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. John 17:8 (NKJV) “For I have given to them the words which You have given Me; and they have received [them,] and have known surely that I came forth from You; and they have believed that You sent Me. John 17:18 (NKJV) “As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. John 17:21 (NKJV) “that they all may be one, as You, Father, [are] in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. John 17:23 (NKJV) “I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me. John 17:25 (NKJV) “O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me. John 20:21 (NKJV) So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”
Romans 6:15-23 (TPT) Hebrews 2:1-3 (NKJV) Hebrews 10:26-29 (NKJV) Romans 6 verse 16 (TPT) Romans 6:17 (TPT) Romans 6:20 (NKJV) Hebrews 8:10 (KNJV) Romans. Chapter 6 verse 21-23 (TPT) Ephesians 2:4-8 (NKJV) Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV) As we move to a time of response, ask yourself these questions: How is your heart? Is your obedience heart deep? What or who do you serve? Do you seek permission or wait for forgiveness? Is there something for which you need to repent?
By Pastor Brandon Dirmann Scriptures - 1 Timothy 2:3-4 (NKJV) - For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. - Matthew 5:13-16 (NKJV) - “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. - Matthew 5:13-16 (MSG) - “Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage. 14-16 “Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven. - Daniel 1:8-9 (NKJV) - But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. 9 Now God had brought Daniel into the favor and goodwill of the chief of the eunuchs. - Daniel 1:17 (NKJV) - As for these four young men, God gave them knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. - Daniel 2:47-48 (NKJV) - The king answered Daniel, and said, “Truly your God is the God of gods, the Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, since you could reveal this secret.” 48 Then the king promoted Daniel and gave him many great gifts; and he made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief administrator over all the wise men of Babylon. Message Points #1. DETERMINE TO LIVE AN UNCOMPROMISING LIFE #2. MAKE AN EFFORT TO LIVE AN UNCOMPROMISING LIFE #3. TRUST GOD WITH THE RESULTS See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
MANIFESTED GLORY 31 Trusting the Word of God in Crisis Pastor Sally Snow – 7/26/20 I. TRUSTING THE WORD 1. The Word of God is proven! Proven: demonstrated by evidence to be true or existing; tried and tested; found to be true 2 Sam 22:31-33 NKJV As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him. 32 "For who is God, except the Lord? And who is a rock, except our God? 33 God is my strength and power, And He makes my way perfect. Ps 9:10 NKJV And those who know Your name will put their trust in You Jehovah – Self existent eternal God who is revealing Himself! Jehovah Rapha – The Lord my Healer The Good Shepherd The Door of the sheep Adoni – the Lord Way, Truth, and the life Light of the World My Helper Waymaker Miracle worker Promise Keeper Light in the Darkness The Secret Place Covenant Keeper! A Carpenter A Holy King Mighty God; Everlasting Father; Prince of Peace; King of Kings and the Lord of Lords Immanuel – God is with us! Fairest of 10,000 El Shaddai – All Powerful All Mighty God Protector Rock Savior Deliverer Messiah True Vine and the Vine dresser! Balm in Gilead The Father, Son and the Holy Ghost! Lord of Hosts Lord strong and mighty The Lord mighty in Battle God of the Angel armies Lilly of the valley Rose of Sharon He is the Oil and the Wine Bread of Life The Living Word Water of the word Elohim – My Strong Creator Jehovah Jireh – The Lord my Provider Jehovah Rapha – The Lord my Healer Jehovah Nissi – My Banner of Victory! Jehovah Tsidkenu – The Lord my Righteousness Jehovah M’keddish – The Lord my Sanctification Jehavah Shalom – The Lord my Peace and Prosperity Jehovah Shammah – the Lord Who is Present! Jehovah Gumelua – The God of Recompense Lion of the Tribe of Judah And the Lamb of God Who takes away the sins of the world! Ancient of Days The Son of God Redeemer The Great I AM JESUS And He is CALLED… the Word of God! 1. His name is called the Word of God. John 1:1-3 NKJV In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. John 1:14 NKJV And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. 2. We can trust the Word of God because His word is truth and will never end. John 17:17 NKJV Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. Num 23:19 NKJV "God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good? Matt 24:35 NKJV Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. Ps 138:2 NKJV For You have magnified Your word above all Your name. Mal 3:6 NKJV "For I am the Lord, I do not change…” Heb 13:8 NKJV Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. 3. The Word gives me patience, comfort, and hope! Rom 15:4 NKJV For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. 4. The Word of God is alive and powerful. Heb 4:12 NKJV For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. MSG God means what he says. What he says goes. His powerful Word is sharp as a surgeon's scalpel, cutting through everything, whether doubt or defense, laying us open to listen and obey. 13 Nothing and no one is impervious to God's Word. We can't get away from it — no matter what. Rom 1:16 NKJV For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes Rom 10:17 NKJV So then faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. Matt 4:4 NKJV 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.'" 5. When I become a doer of the word it has the power to strengthen me for the crisis. Matt 7:24-25 NKJV "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. 6. The Word is our armor and the sword of the Spirit. Eph 6:12 Protecting power! Proactive Power! Helmet of salvation 2 Cor 5:17 NKJV Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. Breastplate of righteousness 2 Cor 5:21 NKJV For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Belt of Truth John 8:32 NKJV And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." Feet Shod 1 Cor 15:3-4 NKJV …Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures… Shield of faith Prov 30:5 NKJV Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. MSG "Every promise of God proves true; He protects everyone who runs to him for help. How did Jesus quench the fiery darts? It is written - Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God! It is written - you shall not put the Lord your God to a foolish test! It is written - that you shall worship the Lord your God and Him only shall you serve! The Sword of the Spirit – which is the Word of God! 7. The word makes us fully equipped for serving Him! 2 Tim 3:16-17 NKJV All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 8. Angels respond to the Word of God in crisis! Ps 103:20 NKJV Bless the Lord, you His angels, Who excel in strength, who do His word, Heeding the voice of His word. 9. God cannot and will not ever break His word or promises! Heb 6:13-18 MSG When God made his promise to Abraham, he backed it to the hilt, putting his own reputation on the line. 14 He said, "I promise that I'll bless you with everything I have — bless and bless and bless!" 15 Abraham stuck it out and got everything that had been promised to him. 16 When people make promises, they guarantee them by appeal to some authority above them so that if there is any question that they'll make good on the promise, the authority will back them up. 17 When God wanted to guarantee his promises, he gave his word, a rock-solid guarantee — 18 God can't break his word. And because his word cannot change, the promise is likewise unchangeable. Isa 55:11 NKJV So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. Ps 107:20 NKJV He sent His word and healed them, And delivered them from their destructions. 10. His word promises that He will keep me in crisis. Isa 43:1-3 NKJV "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. 3 For I am the Lord your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior Ps 68:20 NLT Our God is a God who saves! The Sovereign Lord rescues us from death. Matt 6:31-34 NKJV "Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. Matt 6:11 NKJV Give us this day our daily bread. 11. Absolute trust in His promise and His faithfulness to bring it to pass will cause me to receive it! Heb 11:11-12 NKJV By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age because she judged Him faithful who had promised. 12 Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born as many as the stars of the sky in multitude — innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore. Rom 4:18-21 MSG When everything was hopeless, Abraham believed anyway, deciding to live not on the basis of what he saw he couldn't do but on what God said he would do. And so he was made the father of a multitude of peoples. God himself said to him, "You're going to have a big family, Abraham!" 19 Abraham didn't focus on his own impotence and say, "It's hopeless. This hundred-year-old body could never father a child." Nor did he survey Sarah's decades of infertility and give up. 20 He didn't tiptoe around God's promise asking cautiously skeptical questions. He plunged into the promise and came up strong, ready for God, 21 sure that God would make good on what he had said. Ps 61:2 NKJV When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Habakkuk 3:19 AMP The Lord God is my strength, my personal bravery, and my invincible army. He makes my feet like hinds feet and will make me to walk, not to stand still in terror but to walk and make spiritual progress upon my high places of trouble, suffering, and responsibility. Isa 26:3 NKJV You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You Because he trusts in You.
So let’s dig into it, and with anything related to the Christian life, the Word of God has to be our final authority. Psalm 18:30 (NKJV)As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the LORD is proven. Psalm 19 God’s word is perfect, sure, right, true, everlasting, to be desired more than gold. Psalm 119:89 (NKJV)Forever, O LORD, Your word is settled in heaven. Psalms 119:105 (NKJV)Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path. John 6:63 (NKJV)The words I speak to you are spirit and they are life. John 15:7 (NKJV)If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. One of the first things a Christian has to embrace is that our born again nature is spiritual. We literally become a new creations in Him. But we still express ourselves through our human nature. 1 Corinthians 14 reminds us, God is not the author of confusion, but brings us into harmony. So as we break down this truth, first things first, God's rule when it comes to any truth in the bible that we're unsure of;1 Corinthians 13:1 (NKJV) Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. At the end of the day, as with any other truth from God, there is an element of faith involved. The overwhelming majority of everything concerning spiritual language comes out of the Apostle Paul's writings. Which by the way, are all 100% inspired by the Holy Spirit.And for all those who think tongues is nothing more than some emotional state of mind for some small, out of balance, uneducated, radical group, the apostle Paul, who covers this subject extensively, graduated from one of the most recognized educational programs of his day. An elite Pharisee. One of history's most respected and quoted thinkers. Writing more than half the New Testament. 1 Corinthians 14:18 (NKJV)I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all. What's really sad is that most of the people that so strongly oppose speaking a spiritual language, quote Paul's writings in all there other Christian beliefs and teachings. Keep in mind, with any other truth from God, there is an element of faith involved. Mark 9:23 (NKJV)Jesus said to him, If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.(MSG) “Jesus said, “If? There are no ‘ifs’ among believers. Anything can happen.Every biblical account of tongues was done through the cooperation of believers. The same Holy Spirit that came to empower The Church at its birth is still here and hasn't changed.Peters first sermon was to a group of confused people who just witnessed spiritual language. And the first thing he does is take them back to the Word. Always remember, there is no spiritual reality outside the support of God's Word. Here's the thing, after God introduces this spiritual reality, there's not one scripture suggestion it was only for a season, or that it wasn't to continue until He returns for His church.If you think about it, according to the Bible, spiritual language is just as scriptural as the new birth, heaven, grace...Regardless of your view on this matter, something we should all keep in mind; spiritual language is God's idea. No man made it up. 1 Corinthians 14:1-2 (NKJV)Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries.(MSG) If you praise Him in the private language of tongues, God understands you but no one else does, for you are sharing intimacies just between you and Him. The primary purposes of a spiritual language are:1. Personal praise and worship.2. Self-edification. (Jude 20, Building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit.)3. Praying out divine secrets.4. Public exhortation.1 Corinthians 14:4-5 (NKJV)He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification.This passage simply distinguishes the public and private application of a spiritual language. 1 Corinthians 14:13-16 (NKJV)Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret. For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding. Otherwise, if you bless with the spirit, how will he who occupies the place of the uninformed say “Amen” at your giving of thanks, since he does not understand what you say? Paul makes it very clear that praying in his spiritual language is simply praying from his spirit, not his intellect.Something else I would point out here, individually or corporately, we see no signs of hysteria or abnormalities.Let me also add this; spiritual language is not an escape from reality, or some self-induced state of mind. It is 100% spiritual, and completely scriptural. 1 Corinthians 14:18-19 (NKJV)I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all; yet in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I may teach others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue. 1 Corinthians 14:32 (NIV)The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets. For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit. For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful.He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself.
Today we look at what Practical Tips the Bible has for us in Acts 13:2 Acts 13:2 (NKJV): As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” In this episode, I talk about: • How the church knew the importance of both prayer & fasting • What prayer & fasting looks like in an everyday life. Head to www.LisaNormanProject.com/Coaching to take your First Step to Loving Your Chaotic Life & Finding The Happy Moments God wants you to have! Chat more about this episode or anything else with Lisa on Instagram @LisaNormanProject Get 5 time-saving tips for when life feels chaotic at: www.MamaWithMoreHappy.com Take a Quick Personal Assessment to start feeling like you again here: www.LisaNormanProject.com/Personal-Assessment
Humility. Compassion. Anger. These emotions moved Jesus' heart-as He journeyed into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. The King of Kings entered the city of David on a lowly donkey. -Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord-- Luke 19-38 -NKJV- As those misinformed shouts still echoed, Jesus wept deeply over Jerusalem's unbelief, and angrily cleansed her temple of false worship. Jesus' heart was so moved because of all that is wrong with our sinful hearts... a damning ailment He came in power to cure. I hope you'll join us Sunday as we consider- -The Heart of the King.-
God’s message through Jeremiah to the Children of Israel who were refugees in Babylon is very relevant today. “Build houses and dwell in them; plant gardens and eat their fruit. Take wives and beget sons and daughters; and take wives for your sons and give your daughters to husbands, so that they may bear sons and daughters — that you may be increased there, and not diminished. And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the LORD for it; for in its peace you will have peace” (Jeremiah 29:5-7 NKJV). We have all watched the growing disunity, rioting, racial tension, and violence across the United States of America; and we ask ourselves how the church should respond in times of violence in our cities. How the Church Should Respond In Times Of Violence Violence does not have to define your city. Multiple times in the Holy Scripture God demonstrated the level of authority He has given His sons and daughters in praying for peace and safety for the city where they live. When Sodom and Gomorrah was filled with moral impurity and violence at a level that could no longer be endured council God said: “Shall I hide from Abraham what I am doing, since Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? For I have known him, in order that he may command his children and his household after him, that they keep the way of the LORD, to do righteousness and justice, that the LORD may bring to Abraham what He has spoken to him.’ And the LORD said, ‘Because the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grave, I will go down now and see whether they have done altogether according to the outcry against it that has come to Me; and if not, I will know’" (Genesis 18:17-21 NKJV). The level of authority over cities delegated to Abraham is revealed in his conversation with the Lord about Sodom and Gomorrah. “And Abraham came near and said, ‘Would You also destroy the righteous with the wicked? Suppose there were fifty righteous within the city; would You also destroy the place and not spare it for the fifty righteous that were in it? Far be it from You to do such a thing as this, to slay the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous should be as the wicked; far be it from You! Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right’?" (Genesis 18:23-25 NKJV) As the conversation between Abraham and the Lord continues it is Abraham dictating the terms by which the city will be destroyed. God is not angry with the boldness of His servant, rather seems to be pleased that he is graciously standing between the city and God crying out for mercy. When it is clear the level of wickedness has reached such severity, ten righteous people could not be found judgment was inevitable. There is a similar conversation between Moses and God when the Children of Israel rebelled against God in their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land (Exodus 32:1-18). The sin of the Israelis had become so severe God was prepared to destroy them. Moses immediately began interceding on their behalf. His authority was great and God said, “I have seen this people and indeed it is a stiff-necked people. Now therefore, let Me alone…” But Moses continued to plead for the people and God responded with grace and mercy. Isaiah 62 clearly portrays the authority God has given to His people and the role He wants them to take in the wellbeing of their city. “For Zion's sake I will not hold My peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, and her salvation as a lamp that burns… I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they shall never hold their peace day or night. You who make mention of the LORD, do not keep silent, and give Him no rest till He establishes and till He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth” (Isaiah 62:1, 6,7 NKJV). This level of prayer and intercession causes righteousness to be exalted in the city. The light and goodness of the city is revealed to the unbeliever as well as the believer. The city will productive economically providing businesses and career opportunities for the youth and will be a great place to raise a family. It will no longer be forsaken by the young people seeking better places to live. Life-giving ministry of the church flourishes and clear avenues are made for the lost to come to salvation. When Jesus Christ sent the original twelve disciples into ministry He gave them authority to bless the cities where they ministered and to speak judgment on those cities. "Now whatever city or town you enter, inquire who in it is worthy, and stay there till you go out. And when you go into a household, greet it. If the household is worthy, let your peace come upon it. But if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. And whoever will not receive you nor hear your words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet. Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city” (Matthew 10:11-15 NKJV). The Lord Jesus gave the same authority to the seventy new disciples Jesus sent into ministry. “Whatever city you enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you. And heal the sick there, and say to them, 'The kingdom of God has come near to you.' But whatever city you enter, and they do not receive you, go out into its streets and say, 'The very dust of your city which clings to us we wipe off against you. Nevertheless know this, that the kingdom of God has come near you.' But I say to you that it will be more tolerable in that Day for Sodom than for that city” (Luke 10:8-12 NKJV). It is time for every born again believer to rise up and say: Not on my watch. I will not allow my city to erupt into violence, hatred, and bigotry. I will not allow crime to flourish and destroy my city. If every Gospel preaching church would take seriously the authority they have in prayer, the entire climate of the USA would change. James 5:16-18 gives assurance the prayers of the righteous are powerful and effective. One man earnestly prayed and impacted an entire nation. How much more when hundred, even thousands, of faithful men and women of God stand against the powers of darkness and cry out for righteousness to be exalted in their city? The Lord Jesus Christ has given to His church the keys of the Kingdom. Through prayer we can bind the forces of darkness that are fomenting hate and bigotry resulting in rioting, looting and violence. We can lose the Holy Spirit to bring spiritual awaking and transformation upon our cities. You have that authority. It has been placed in the hands of the Church. We must embrace the promise and the responsibility to earnestly pray for our city and say to the Lord of the Harvest, “Not on my watch will our city be torn apart by racial tension, crime and violence.” As the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ, the powers of darkness will not steal, kill and destroy in our city. We will give God no rest until He pours out righteousness and Holy Spirit awakening upon our city. NOT ON MY WATCH will I sit by and let Satan destroy my city and my nation. If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider leaving us a review. This helps the Foundational podcast reach more listeners. Be sure to tell a friend about the Foundational blog and podcast, and share with them about the free Bible Reading Challenge journal they will receive when they subscribe to receive my newsletter! Learn how to engage in deep spiritual warfare for your city with The Freedom Series! Discovering True Identity: A Believer's Position in Christ (Freedom Series) (Volume 1)Agape: Unveiling the Mask of Darkness, Setting the Captives Free (Freedom Series) (Volume 2)Charis: The Power of Grace (The Freedom Series) (Volume 3)
MOVING FORWARD TO A POSITIVE YEAR AHEAD Bible Study Verses: Proverbs 23.7, Philippians 4.8, Luke 6.45. “The Order of the Divine mind, embodied in the Divine Law, is beautiful. What should a man do but try to reproduce it, so far as possible, in his daily life?” C.S. Lewis, Reflections on the Psalms † “...Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you...” Philippians 4.4+ NKJV As we move into another year, what will be different in our lives? What will be different in the work we do? What are we going to do differently? What type of thoughts are automatic? If you do the same thing the same way and expect a different result, what does that indicate? Why is life like a mirror? Why do people think negatively? Why is positive thinking difficult? What type of thinking requires discipline? Why can’t you slap abrasive people around? Do most people in control of themselves want to ”turn the other cheek”? What are at least 5-life actions to help change old fruitless mind patterns? Pastor Otuno expounds on this and much more on the exciting journey of Fresh Encounter Radio Podcast originally aired on December 21, 2019 on WNQM, Nashville Quality Ministries and WWCR World Wide Christian Radio broadcast to all 7-continents on this big beautiful blue marble, earth, floating through space. Please be prayerful before studying The Word of God so that you will receive the most inspiration possible. † https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/558664-reflections-on-the-psalms FERP191221 Episode #100 COVER ART CREDIT: Photo by Mathias Jensen, art direction by gil on his mac. This Teaching Podcast is brought to you by Christian Leadership International and all the beloved of God who believe in it’s mission through prayer and support. Thank you. GOT191221ep100 See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
By Pastor Brandon Dirmann Scriptures - Ephesians 6:10-18 (NKJV) - Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— - Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) - Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. - Proverbs 27:19 (NKJV) - As in water face reflects face, so a man’s heart reveals the man. - Matthew 12:35 (NKJV) - A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things. - Revelation 12:10 (NKJV) - Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, “Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down. - Romans 8:1 (NKJV) - There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. - Romans 5:1-2 (NKJV) - Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. - 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NKJV) - For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. - Hebrews 10:14 (NKJV) - For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified. - Hebrews 6:11-12 (NKJV) - And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. - James 1:12 (NKJV) - Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. - Ephesians 6:17 (NKJV) - And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; - Romans 8:22-24 (NKJV) - For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. 23 Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. 24 For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? - Romans 8:18 (NKJV) - For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Message Points 1. THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS GUARDS MY IDENTITY Righteousness = The quality of being right both in position and in relationship with God. Righteousness is both judicial (Declaring of righteousness) and gracious (Gifting of righteousness). God has declared and imparted to believers righteous and has acquitted them of their sins through the finished work of His son. “The Devil” is not the enemy’s name; it is his title and the description of who he is and what he does. Devil = Means to slander, accuse falsely, oppose the cause of God with words, to author evil, to persecute good men, astringing mankind from God and enticing them to sin. Slander = The action and the crime of making a false spoken statement damaging a person’s reputation. 2. THE SHOES OF PEACE GUARD MY PATHWAY The devil wants, through fear, intimidation, and anxiety, cause you to GIVE UP, GIVE IN, and GET OUT of God’s will. God wants you, through faith in the finished work of Jesus, STAND STRONG, STAY FAITHFUL, and STAY in His will. 3. THE HELMET OF SALVATION GUARDS MY MIND Salvation = Means complete deliverance, preservation, soundness, prosperity, happiness, rescue, and general well-being. It is used both in the material temporal sense and also in the spiritual and eternal sense. Salvation is a present possession with a fuller realization in the future. WE CAN STAND STRONG, STAY FAITHFUL, AND STAY IN the will of God by using God’s Word to put on the Breastplate of Righteousness, Shoes of Peace and Helmet of Salvation
By Pastor Robert Rosales Scriptures (All NKJV) - Ephesians. 6:10-18 (NKJV) - Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— - Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) - Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. - Proverbs 27:19 (NKJV) - As in water face reflects face, So a man’s heart reveals the man. - Matthew 12:35 (NKJV) - A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things. - Revelation 12:10 (NKJV) - Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, “Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down. - Romans 8:1 (NKJV) - There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. - Romans 5:1-2 (NKJV) - Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. - 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NKJV) - For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. - Hebrews 10:14 (NKJV) - For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified. - Hebrews 6:11-12 (NKJV) - And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, 12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. - James 1:12 (NKJV) - Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. - Romans 8:22-24 (NKJV) - For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. 23 Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. 24 For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? - Romans 8:18 (NKJV) - For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Message Points 1. THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS GUARDS MY IDENTITY Righteousness = The quality of being right both in position and in relationship with God. Righteousness is both judicial (Declaring of righteousness) and gracious (Gifting of righteousness). God has declared and imparted to believers righteous and has acquitted them of their sins through the finished work of His son. “The Devil” is not the enemy’s name; it is his title and the description of who he is and what he does. Devil = Means to slander, accuse falsely, oppose the cause of God with words, to author evil, to persecute good men, astringing mankind from God and enticing them to sin. Slander = The action and the crime of making a false spoken statement damaging a person’s reputation. 2. THE SHOES OF PEACE GUARD MY PATHWAY The devil wants, through fear, intimidation, and anxiety, cause you to GIVE UP, GIVE IN, and GET OUT of God’s will. God wants you, through faith in the finished work of Jesus, STAND STRONG, STAY FAITHFUL, and STAY in His will. 3. THE HELMET OF SALVATION GUARDS MY MIND Salvation = Means complete deliverance, preservation, soundness, prosperity, happiness, rescue, and general well-being. It is used both in the material temporal sense and also in the spiritual and eternal sense. Salvation is a present possession with a fuller realization in the future. WE CAN STAND STRONG, STAY FAITHFUL, AND STAY IN the will of God by using God’s Word to put on the Breastplate of Righteousness, Shoes of Peace and Helmet of Salvation
Robert Murray M 'Cheyne put it this-way- -The seed of every sin known to-man is in my heart.--The Scottish minister's self-disclosure applies to all disciples.-Even the strongest Christians are-capable of the worst spiritual failures.-Don't you think--This is not fatalistic thinking. It's simply realistic.-And it's what Jesus deliberately taught His first-disciples when He predicted their profound-disloyalty to Him on Good Friday.--All of you will be made to stumble-because of Me this night...---Mark 14-27 -NKJV--As you might remember, it wasn't just Peter who-insisted Jesus was mistaken- he simply spoke first-and loudest---If I have to die with you, I will not deny-you-- And they all said likewise.--Mark 14-31-It is not merely weak, immature disciples who-are in danger of spiritual failure.-These future apostles were the best-trained-disciples on earth when they abandoned their-master. And they did so just hours after pledging-their loyalty to Him and debating which of them was-the greatest--What happened--I hope to see you here this Sunday as we turn-again to Mark 14 and consider, -Responding to-Jesus- The Weakness of Strong Sheep.-
Psalm 103:13(NKJV) As a father pities his children,So the Lord pities those who fear Him.
It's almost that time of year when the roses need to be pruned. They still have a few blooms, but they are looking very raggedy. Not at all like the brilliantly flourishing bushes of mid-summer. I'm a tough pruner. As pruning time approaches some of the rose bushes have branches that have grown to over 6 feet tall, and I cut them down to less than a foot in height. A horticulturalist taught me a few very useful things about pruning roses.... Consider the shape of the bush you are aiming for. The goal is to have the bush look like a vase with all branches cut so they will grow outwards, not towards the centre of the plant, and not crossing over other branches. Look for the slight showing of a bud and cut just above it, about 5mm, and on an angle sloping away from the bud. Clean the secateurs (pruning shears) with Methylated Spirits between each cut, so that disease is not spread in the plant or across the plants. When completed, spray the cuts with lime sulphur For thirteen years I have followed this regime. Often when people visit our home in July/August they mention the 'severity' of my pruning, and ask do they really grow back? Yes they do, bigger and with more magnificent blooms. Why this information about pruning roses? When I was in NZ, I attended a church service and the message was on John 15:1-15. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. John 15:2 NKJV Towards the end of the message the preacher said something like, "The reward for fruit is more pruning... Pruning means that God is pleased with you... Pruning leads to growth, it is not a punishment. I don't know about you, but for me the seasons of pruning can be a bit confusing and painful. From my experience when the pruning season is approaching there is a sense that something is changing. It may not be absolutely clear what is changing and why it is changing. Fear may try to rise up and cause confusion. It is in these times that I remind myself of these truths ... For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints. 1 Corinthians 14:33 NKJV As the pruning starts my go-to places are God's Word, and praise & worship. Reading His word - to understand why this pruning is taking place, finding answers to what is it that God is wanting to do in me. Praise and worship - to allow the Holy Spirit to minister to the pain and grief as God prunes, and to help me keep my eyes focused on Him and the end goal of becoming more like Christ. Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJV And remind myself that ... But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved. Hebrews 10:39 NIV Please don't think I am saying that I love and embrace pruning seasons. I haven't reached that place yet, and maybe never will. I have moments of doubts, fears and tears. But I know enough to know that God doesn't cut and run. No, He gently prunes in exactly the right places, the places where there is the hint of the bud that He wants to see bloom, because it will bring the fruit He desires from our lives. Philippians 3:13-14 from The Message bible says it this way ... I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back. Philippians 3:13-14 The Message Let's pray, Heavenly Father, thank you that you have a plan and purpose for our lives. Thank you that you are faithful in every season. Thank you that always know what is best for us. Please help us to trust you more in the pruning seasons and embrace the change you bring into our lives, knowing that you will work everything together for good for those who love you and have been called according to your purpose. In Jesus Name we pray, Amen. For more information please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
"Don't strive - live!" Those are the words I heard from God earlier this week. Sounds strangely similar to words I sometimes hear from my husband, "Wendy, does everything need to run to a schedule? Lets be spontaneous!" Don't strive. What does that mean? Does it mean that I have slipped back into doing things in my strength, not God's strength? Highly likely! For it is [not your strength, but it is] God who is effectively at work in you, both to will and to work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfill your purpose] for His good pleasure. Philippians 2:13 AMP. So what needs to change? I'm not exactly sure, but a good starting place is taking a breath, being still, and asking God what needs to change. Obviously He knows and I need to listen. Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! "For who has known the mind of the Lord? or who has become His counselor?" Romans 11:33-34 NKJV As the years go by in this walk with Jesus, I realise more and more my absolute need for Him in my everyday life. How is it that I ever did life before having Jesus as my best friend? Oh I remember, I did it all in my own strength. An example from my corporate life, working hard, exhausting myself so much so that every six months I would become physically sick and have at least a week off work! Not really a sustainable way to live. Definitely striving. So what's different now? I have a counsellor that is continually with me. But the aHelper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will help you remember everything that I have told you. John 14:26 AMP The Holy Spirit. He's not pushy. He doesn't force his opinions on me. He waits for me to ask him for guidance. Sometimes I am way too slow in asking. And sometimes I don't ask at all, and that's when the problems start. And not only do we have the Holy Spirit, we also have available to us a peace that transcends all understanding ... Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.] John 14:27 AMP Thank you Jesus! For me that feeling of uneasiness about a situation, is sometimes an indication of striving. Me not doing things God's way because I haven't bothered to seek His thoughts, or running ahead of God's perfect timing because I am too impatient to wait. Both perfect opportunities to ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Of course once I do ask and wait, that sense of God's perfect peace does bring clam and gives me courage and strength. To help me understand what He meant, yesterday God gave me a practical lesson on 'Don't strive - live'. He showed me what living looks like compared to striving. We had a situation that was causing issues, but we had no answers for how to resolve it. Notice the 'we had no answers'. So after 7 weeks of grappling with this issue, at the point of complete frustration we prayed a really heartfelt prayer. Not a half-hearted prayer, semi-relying on God to provide an answer. But a complete 'God we need your answer to this situation'. We then entered the situation with a different attitude, with a heart prepared to love and show grace. The issue arose again. But this time the Holy Spirit opened my eyes to see something different - the perfect answer to the problem. It was an answer that none of us could have imagined as it was so opposite to the situation, yet so simple. We looked on in amazement. I felt like a little school girl with the teacher saying to me, 'If you'd just asked me earlier I could have shown you the steps to solve this and you would have avoided all this heartache.' Don't strive - live. Okay Jesus, I'm starting to get the picture, the picture of where the striving has crept in and my reliance on you has reduced. Thank you for your gentle guidance and conviction. My prayer is that what I've shared in this post will encourage you in a few ways, firstly to take time to hear what God is wanting to tell you; secondly if you don't understand what He means, seek him for clarity; and thirdly to have the courage to live His way in every area of your life - a daily challenge for us all. Jesus came to give us life, life to the full, and isn't that what we want for ourselves and those around us? The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]. John 10:10 AMP To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
MARK AND KIMBERLEY SPELLMAN We are excited to welcome Mark and Kimberley Spellman as our guest speakers next week. They are “revivalist missionaries” with a passion for the nations. The Spellman family is a part of the LifePointe family, having attended LifePointe prior to launching their missionary vision. They are sure to light your fire for France, all of Europe and the world, …and ultimately apply it to your own corner of the world. THE MISSION OF LOVE Genesis 1:26-28 NKJV Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth." 27 So God created man in His [own] image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 28 Then God blessed them, and God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth." 1 Corinthians 15:48-49 NKJV As [was] the [man] of dust, so also [are] those [who are made] of dust; and as [is] the heavenly [Man], so also [are] those [who are] heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the [man] of dust, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly [Man]. John 15:13 NKJV Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends. 1 Timothy 1:5 NIV The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. Philemon 6 Laubach I pray that everyone who meets you may catch your faith and learn how wonderful it is to live in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:38-39 NLT And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow--not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love. 39 No power in the sky above or in the earth below--indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Colossians 1:19-23 NKJV For it pleased [the Father that] in Him all the fullness should dwell, 20 and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. 21 And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled 22 in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight-- 23 if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister. 1 Peter 3:15 NKJV But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always [be] ready to [give] a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear...
Join us this week as we start our brand new series, Restored. We all want healthy, dynamic relationships. However, some of us never seem to find health. We need to be RESTORED. This unique series will require us to take a good look inside. A look that may uncover areas we aren't proud of. A look that will help bring us back to a state of health. A look that will bring us back to a former position. Finally a look that will help us regain that which was lost. As a result, we will be Restored. (Hosea 6:2) (NLT) In just a short time he will restore us, so that we may live in his presence. Title of Message: Insecurity (Proverbs 4:23) (GN) Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts. Deceptive Definitions: 1. We let culture define who we are. 2. We let our past define who we are. (Romans 12:3) Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Don't have an unhealthy view of yourself, but rather be set free of the wrong view and let God give you right thinking by being assured of who He is and what He believes about you. You'll never be right until you can see right. How can I see right? (Judges 6:11) The angel of the Lord came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites. (Judges 6:12) When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.” (Judges 6:13) “But sir,” Gideon replied, “if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our fathers told us about when they said, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up out of Egypt?' But now the Lord has abandoned us and put us into the hand of Midian.” (Judges 6:14) The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian's hand. Am I not sending you?” (Judges 6:15) “But Lord,” Gideon asked, “how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.” (Judges 6:16) The Lord answered, “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites together.” (Judges 6:24)...So Gideon built an altar to the Lord there and called it The Lord is Peace. To Overcome Insecurity: 1. See God correctly. Your relationship with God can be no better than your view of God. (Psalm 59:10 LB) My God is changeless in his love for me… (Isaiah 38:16) (NLT) Lord, your discipline is good, for it leads to life and health. You restore my health and allow me to live! 2. See myself the way God sees me. (1 Peter 2:9) (TLB) But you are not like that, for you have been chosen by God himself—you are priests of the King, you are holy and pure, you are God's very own—all this so that you may show to others how God called you out of the (Winepress) darkness into his wonderful light. 3. Get around people who see me the way God sees me. (Proverbs 27:17) (NKJV) As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend. Right relationships help us define who we are and what we become.
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