Podcasts about nkjv god

“and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me.”‭‭Matthew‬ ‭18‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭NKJV‬‬God wants us to be like the little children and do his will. Happy new week everyone!

"And if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world" (John 12:47, NKJV) God's justice is not retributive, it is redemptive. We often see God in light of a court room, a divine judge who is removed and far off, disengaged and solitary The balance of justice hangs in the balance, but we are never quite sure how He will rule. However, God's justice is not like man's idea of justice. It's all about bringing us home to Him where we belong. Support the show

Activating Angelic Ministry Part IV“Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?”‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭1‬:‭14‬ ‭One important thing to know about angels is that the term “Angel” is a job description that simply means one who is sent.We see in scripture that men, pastors and even God were called Angels.Four things you may not know about angels:

““If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, When men rose up against us, Then they would have swallowed us alive, When their wrath was kindled against us;”‭‭Psalms‬ ‭124‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭NKJV‬‬God will not let the plans of the come to pass in our life, be strong out there!!

Immeasurably More // God's Blessing to You Through Christ “The Gospel is the principal article of all Christian doctrine…Most necessary is it that we know this doctrine well, teach it to others, and beat it into their heads continually.”  Martin Luther Ephesians 1:1-3 (NKJV)"Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints who are in Ephesus, and faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ..." God's Blessing to You Through Christ 1.     Made You a Saint 2.     All Flow from God Through Christ to YouEphesians 1:3 (NKJV)“God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us.” James 1:17 (NKJV)“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” 3.     Are First for Your Greatest Need, Which Is Spiritual“Every Spiritual Blessing in Christ.” 4.     Are Not Going Anywhere“Spiritual Blessing...in Christ.” 

Have a comment? Text us!The Bible tells us not to take the Lord's name in vain, but what does that mean exactly? What is the Lord's name and what does it mean to take His name in vain?Listen as our host dives deep into scripture, to answer the question, and provide an answer that may surprise you. We will walk you through history, culture and most importantly, God's Word."And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And He said, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.'” (Exodus 3:14 NKJV)God is the great I AM. His name is to be both feared and revered. The name of the Most High God is to be treated with respect above any other name.Podcast Host: Todd Uebele==========Coffee With Jesus Website: https://coffeewithjesus.info/Coffee With Jesus Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cwj2011/Coffee With Jesus YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsQBybBdPxlSxvmWYfcMzQCoffee With Jesus Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/CoffeeWithJesus

David Macdonald - August 18th 2024 -Studies in Genesis Part 10: The Beginning of Nations & Language The Table of Nations Book of Beginnings Sons of Japheth Sons of Ham Sons of Shem Tower of Babel What about Races? Genesis 10:1-32 The Tower of Babel Genesis 11:1-4 Now the whole earth had one language and the same words. (2) And as people migrated from the east, they found a plain in the land of Shinar and settled there. (3) And they said to one another, "Come, let us make bricks, and burn them thoroughly." And they had brick for stone, and bitumen for mortar. (4) Then they said, "Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the heavens, and let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be dispersed over the face of the whole earth.“ ~2250 BC – about 100years after the Flood About 1000 to 10,000 people at this point One language. Plan against God.  God sent them out – but they gathered together to build a city, Shinar (Iraq) Build a tower going up to heaven. They build a city by man, for man and without God. Vs. 4 – note – let us make a name for ourselves – pride Genesis 11:5-9 (5) And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of man had built. (6) And the LORD said, "Behold, they are one people, and they have all one language, and this is only the beginning of what they will do. And nothing that they propose to do will now be impossible for them. (7) Come, let us go down and there confuse their language, so that they may not understand one another's speech." (8) So the LORD dispersed them from there over the face of all the earth, and they left off building the city. (9) Therefore, its name was called Babel, because there the LORD confused the language of all the earth. And from there the LORD dispersed them over the face of all the earth. Language - one Let us go down – vs. 7 Confusion & dispersion Results of Babel Approx. 70 people groups dispersed Groups formed their own cultures Moved further from other cultures with little contact Gene pool – split up over time – distinct features & characteristics develop Correct understanding of human history – understanding of racism Early evolutionists – influenced idea of race Sin cause of racism Race – What does the Bible Say?? Always a great question Bible teaches – one race – human race (mankind) 1 Samuel 16:7 But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart." Acts 17:24-26 NKJV “God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands. (25) "Nor is He worshiped with men's hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives to all life, breath, and all things. (26) "And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings, Great commission – Go therefore and make disciples of all nations (Matt 28:19) Acts 10:28 NLT Peter told them, "You know it is against the Jewish laws for me to come into a Gentile home like this. But God has shown me that I should never think of anyone as impure. Acts 17:30 The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent.

Have you ever said to yourself, “There is not enough time to do all this.”?  I have and it's normally followed up with a huge sigh of exasperation! Then the Holy Spirit reminds me of something I heard a few years ago, “God will always give you enough time for what He wants you to do.”   Press pause! Does that mean I am doing things that God doesn't want me to do? Does that mean I am doing things differently from how He wants me to do them? Sounds like it is time to check in with God and find out.   Getting direction from God   Let's look at those questions again, firstly "Am I doing things that God doesn't want me to do?" Or it could be asked this way, "Am I going in the direction God has for me?" In Psalms, we read,   “The steps of the God-pursuing ones follow firmly in the footsteps of the Lord, and God delights in every step they take to follow him.” (Psalm 37:23 TPT).   So when we have those thoughts of "There is not enough time" perhaps it is a good idea to pause and check in with God on the direction we are taking. Oh! there is again, that "Be Still and know that I am God" attitude. Maybe a prayer like, "God, am I doing what you want me to do? Am I following the path you have for me? Please show me if I have gone off track and am doing things that are outside your will for my life."   Jesus is a wonderful example of only doing what His Father, God, our Heavenly Father, told him to do. In the Gospel of John we read that Jesus said,   "I do what my father tells me to do. I do that so that the people of this world can know that I love my father.” (John 14:31 PEV) An aside: Jesus had complete clarity about why He was being obedient to His Father, "so that people of this world can know that I love my father."  The Passion Translation says it this way, "I am doing exactly what the Father destined for me to accomplish, so that the world will discover how much I love my Father." (John 14:31 TPT) So a question for us - "Do we have that level of clarity about the motives of our actions?"   Right direction, but not sure on the "how"   Perhaps the answer is "Yes," we have clarity on our motives. We are confident we're being obedient to God and going in the direction He is leading us. However, we are still feeling overwhelmed with all that has to be done, "There is not enough time to do all this!" So then we need to look at the "how" and ask the question, "Am I doing things God's way?"   We have the direction, but we need more of God's wisdom on how to take each step. In the book of Proverbs we read,    "A man's mind plans his way [as he journeys through life]. But the LORD directs his steps and establishes them." (Proverbs 16:9 AMP).   We know there are often many ways to get to the end goal, but not all are efficient, and not all are the ways God wants it done.  We need to remind ourselves that God's ways are higher,   “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “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)   God's ways are higher - always - not just sometimes. God knows the bigger picture.   God has the bigger picture   We don't even know what will happen later today, or tomorrow, or next year. Receiving a ‘surprise' medical report or receiving an unexpected promotion at work, reminds us of that.   James 4:13-15 tells us,   “Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say, “If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.” (James 4:13-15 NIV)   And so it is with the plans we make, we might have some ideas on the outcomes, but we don't know for sure. But God knows.   Ask God for wisdom So getting back to the question, "Am I doing things God's way?" James also tells us we can ask for God's wisdom and He will give it to us,    "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault; and it will be given to you." (James 1:5 NIV)   We need to ask God for His wisdom on the "how."   Recently my days have been very full, and I have been asking God each morning to order the tasks I have on the list. I knew my plan wouldn't be the best for me or my family, but I had confidence in God, that He has the bigger picture and He would fit it all together perfectly. And He has - leaving me very surprised at the end of the day with what had been achieved. Thank you God - your ways are astronomically higher than mine!   God's plan vs AI   Interestingly, last week I was talking to someone about the busy-ness of the week. During the conversation I asked her if the Holy Spirit brought me to her mind, could she please pray for me, that I would clearly hear from God on what tasks to do each day. She agreed and then told me about electronic calendars now using AI to order people's schedules.    I don't know about you, but I would much prefer to trust God, the creator of Heaven and Earth, to order my day, rather than a man-made algorithm. As we read in James 4, God alone knows what the day will bring, and what tomorrow will bring, and how we need to prepare for it.    Pride and casting our cares on Jesus   So why is it sometimes that we don't go to God to get His wisdom, but rather we press on, doing things our own way and often ending up in a pickle?   For me the answer is simple, Pride! I take pride in being independent, knowing the best course of action, not having to ask anyone for help. Yes, I know - plenty to repent of in that list! God has been helping me in these areas for the past 30 years, gently, and sometimes not so gently, showing me that I need to be totally dependent on Him.   When are feeling overwhelmed we always have the option of pausing, acknowledging God, yes, there it is again, "Be still and know that I am God." and asking for His help. We can give all of our cares to Him as it says in 1 Peter 4,   “Therefore humble yourselves [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you, casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.” (1 Peter 4:6-7 AMPC)   Humility is key   Humility is a key here, because it is us saying that we can't do this alone. We don't have what it takes. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines Humility as, "freedom from pride or arrogance: the quality or state of being humble." (Merriam-Webster) I recently read this about humility in one of John Maxwell's books, "What is humility? My friend Rick Warren says, "Humility is not denying your strengths. Humility is being honest about your weaknesses. All of us are a bundle of both great strengths and great weaknesses and humility is being able to be honest about both." My belief is that humility is a choice every day to give credit to God for our blessings and to other people for our successes." (Good Leaders ask Great Questions, John Maxwell, page 33).   Humility gives us freedom. As we acknowledge that we need God's help, we take the pressure off ourselves.    A matter of trust We don't need to have all the answers anymore, rather we trust God and His wisdom.   Proverbs 3:5-7 says,   "Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions, with all your heart rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make. Become intimate with him in whatever you do, and he will lead you wherever you go. Don't think for a moment that you know it all, for wisdom comes when you adore him with undivided devotion. and avoid everything that's wrong." (Proverbs 3:5-7 TPT).   So today, let's choose to trust that God has the perfect plan for our lives. Let's choose to trust that when we ask Him, He will give us the steps to follow His path.  And trust that He will always give us enough time to do what He wants us to do.   Looking for more encouragement? Are you looking for more resources to help you draw closer to God, please check out my other blog posts and podcasts.

What's your 'go-to' when things aren't working out how you thought they would? Does frustration take over? For me, being a planner and organiser by nature, frustration is definitely my 'go-to' when things aren't working out as I'd planned.  The broken wrist In early December I broke my wrist while renovating a room in our home. Standing on a kiddie step to sand a cornice, I stepped off awkwardly and fell. I screamed. My daughter came running and helped me get up off the floor. Immediately I started planning how I could continue the sanding. I attempted to pick up something with my left hand - but couldn't. My daughter looked at my left wrist and said, "Mum, you need to go to the hospital." I started crying, all these thoughts going through my head, the waiting at the hospital, the thought of not being able to drive and the implications on all the plans around Christmas. I could feel the frustration building. Be Still moment Then I took a moment to Be Still and to acknowledge God, as it says in Psalm 46:10. I asked Him what He wanted me to do in this situation, and I had a sense of a 'Slow down Wendy' message (Obviously!).  Choose to yield At that moment I could have continued with the negative thoughts about all I wouldn't be able to do due to this injury.  But over many years of having many unexpected medical situations in our family, I've learnt enough from God to know that when He speaks it is best to quickly yield, receive and embrace His words. The "just do it" and in this case it was "Slow down Wendy".    Yielding quickly Another key God has taught me to yielding quickly is thankfulness. Look for the things to be thankful for, as it says in Thessalonians 5:18, "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." Thessalonians 5:18 NIV In the situation with the broken wrist, I was thankful that I could get up and walk - I didn't injure any other part of my body. I was grateful that I was now going to get the rest I needed - I didn't have to ask anyone's permission to stop! Now, the cast is off, the bone has healed, and I can drive again. There are movement and strengthening exercises to do but life is back to normal. But I am so grateful that for 6 weeks I had a slower-paced life. Frustration brings limits And I am so grateful for all the years that God has been teaching me how to yield and not let frustration overtake me. James 1:2-4 tells us that these trials we face have a purpose, "My brethen, 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." James 1:2-4 NKJV God matures us through our trials. But I must say, I find it really hard to "count it all joy" when I'm feeling frustrated. The frustration seems to take all my energy, so much so that it limits my ability to think and hear clearly. I can't hear clearly from God or other people who are trying to help me process the frustration. I need a circuit breaker to stop the moments of frustration turning into hours, days, months and years! The Circuit breaker With each trial I go through in life, complete with its frustration, something interesting happens - my understanding of God's trustworthiness grows. My ability to go to that place of "Okay, this is frustrating and annoying, but I am going to choose to trust that God has a plan and purpose here." has increased over the years and most times I can relatively quickly yield and go to the place of trusting God.  Of course, sometimes there is still that wrestle and it takes a bit longer - I am a work in progress - and thankfully God is patient and kind. ... is trust! So my circuit breaker to being overwhelmed by frustration is - Trust! And not trusting in myself and my abilities, but trusting in God. Proverbs 3:5-6, I'm sure you know it, says, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your path." (NKJV) Trusting God with all your heart For me, as I said, learning to trust God with all my heart is a journey. It didn't just happen like the flick of a switch when I received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour, at age 24. No, it has been and still is a gradual process of letting go of my plans (difficult when a lot of my career was about project planning!); letting go of the trust I have in my wisdom and knowledge (ie I know best); letting go of being led by my feelings, and letting go of the expectations of myself. Basically, it is the process of dying to oneself, and as Jesus said to His disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23 NIV Surrender to His Ways The Passion Translation says it this way, "If you truly desire to be my disciple, you must disown your life completely, embrace my 'cross' as your own, and surrender to my ways." Luke 9:23 TPT Surrender. Letting go of my ways and following Jesus' ways. Trusting God. The catalyst for me to learning how to let go has been the trials of life, those trials that James talks about. With each trial that Jesus helps me overcome I learn more about His character. I grow in my understanding of just how trustworthy He is.  And I learn more about my character and that my frustration at the circumstances I didn't like or want, is highlighting to me the areas where I need to trust God more. Getting frustrated? Trust God So next time you feel yourself getting frustrated at a situation or person, take a breath and tell yourself that this is the time to, "Trust in the LORD with all my heart, and lean not on my own understanding; In all my ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct my path." And perhaps if you haven't already, start writing in a journal about every time you make that choice to trust God and then record what the outcome is. It will become your book of personal testimonies to remind yourself that God is trustworthy. To find out more please visit drawingclosertogod.org

How much of our time does God control?

VERSE OF THE DAY (MONDAY 11 SEPTEMBER 2023 FOCUS: FEAR NOT For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, Saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you.' Isaiah 41:13 NKJV God is holding a dua position in your life. He is first your Lord (I.e. Your Master or Leader), and then your God (Your Father). In the first case, He will be your shepherd so you have nothing to worry about. What this meant is that you are His responsibility and He is obligated to take care of you. At times, He may use His rod and staff to correct you. This you must take in good faith because, in the end, it will bring comfort to your soul (Psalms 23). As your Father, He will take care of you and not permit your feet to stumble. He is the God of your right hand (Psalms 121).  In both cases, you owe Him certain responsibilities (Malachi 1:6) As a master, you must have reverential fear for Him. Not the fear of a tyrant but one born out of love for Him who loved you dearly to die for all your sins.  As a Father, you must honor Him. This is because He deserves all honor, glory, adoration, and thanks.   What will He do in response?  He will hold your right hand saying, Don't be afraid, I will help you. This is thrilling to the heart. That the God, and Creator of the whole universe is on your side to aid and assist you every step all the way to glory is quite remarkable and refreshing.  How amazing this is to the praise of His name. Therefore,  you must rest and be quiet in your heart knowing that He will work all things together for your good.  Amen!

Drawing Near to God Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16 NASBPsalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. NLTJames 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. How can we draw near to God? Read and Study The Word of God The Devotional Bible Study Method 1 Summary —Summarize the passage or chapter etc with a title (a short phrase or a single sentence -think of a newspaper headline) 2 What Lessons or truths or principles or doctrines or theological treasures are revealed?  3 Prayer eg. Revelation chapter 16: Summary- life without Jesus and Armageddon  Lesson/observance Life without Jesus is horrible like having unending disease and dying of thirst and being enslaved to the worst master and living in total darkness and endless despair  Thank you Father for giving me Jesus! Because of Jesus I am healed, have living water, I am set free —I walk in the light and have endless joy! How can we draw near to God? Prayer! The model prayer Jesus showed us: Our Father in Heaven Hallowed be Your Name (Focus me on You) Your Kingdom come, your will be done (Prepare me, Control me) Give us this day our daily bread (Supply me) And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors (Cleanse me) Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil (Protect me) For Yours is the Kingdom and the Power and the Glory forever. Amen. (Empty me) Eat M and M's! Meditate and Memorize! Jeremiah 15:16 (NKJV) Your words were found, and I ate them, And Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; For I am called by Your name, O LORD God of hosts. Psalms 119:11 (NKJV) Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You. Drawing Near to God Worship! John 4:24 (NKJV) “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” “I Can Do All Things Through A Verse Out Of Context ” Obadidea 1:1 Recognize who He Is! Recognize what He has Done! Psalms 100:3-5 (NKJV) Know that the LORD, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations. Obedience! Read it Believe it Obey it

“So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. 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.”” ‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬-‭28‬ ‭NKJV‬‬ God's plan is to expand his kingdom and He does it through His children. He blessed a man and a woman in marriage to have godly offspring and raise them for His glory. Any male can have sex with a female and make children, but it takes a real man and woman to raise children in the Lord. It takes consistency, patience, love and courage. satan hates this because it's a terror to him and his kingdom.

“But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.” Matthew 24:37-39 NKJV “God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;” Acts 17:24 KJV

How do you feel about failure?  Do you embrace failure, fear it or loathe it entirely? Is “failure is not an option” your war cry?  We're continuing our series on 10 Sure Fire Ways to Stay Stuck, and it's time to tackle failure. Why? Because if you're attempting to do anything great, living your life of significance, and embracing your God-given purpose, you're going to come head-to-head with this bad boy. What's your plan when you do? Today is for you if… If you're tired of failure holding you're face to the ground, pressuring you to cry “uncle.” If you desire to push past life's failures and make something of yourself. If you're ready to welcome the enemy and discover the freedom that comes with it. #3 Sure-Fire Way to Stay Stuck – Failure Isn't an Option The idea of never failing can drive us to strive for excellence, but it can be a double-edged sword that causes a fear of failure and stops us from trying new things. It can also reduce our chances of success and affect our mental health.  Is there another way to look at failure? Yes; we can welcome it as a way to succeed. Sure-Fire Way to Succeed – Welcome Failure  Yes, really! Failure is not only okay; it's vital to your growth and learning process.  If we embrace it as a learning opportunity and view it with curiosity, we can gain valuable knowledge and progress faster than we could without failure. So let's talk about five reasons why you shouldn't fear failure but welcome it: 1. Failure Provides Valuable Feedback  When we fail or make mistakes, we learn what not to do and gain feedback on how to do things differently. This feedback is valuable in helping us better understand ourselves and our environment. 2. Failure Highlights Areas That Need Improvement By embracing failures, you can identify areas where you need to improve, learn new skills or gain more experience to continue personal growth. 3. Failure Boosts Resilience  Failure can improve our resilience when we welcome it with open arms. You realize you're okay even though you failed…like it didn't kill you.  Now failure can strengthen your character and mental toughness for the next opportunity. 4. Failure Leads to Innovation  Failure opens the door to new and innovative ideas, which wouldn't have been discovered without the lessons learned from experience. 5. Failure is Part of the Learning Process  Learning requires humility and the ability to learn from our failures and mistakes. If you embrace failures, it provides opportunities to expand your knowledge, skills and relationships. 1 Peter 5:5 and James 4:6 NKJV “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.” If you're proud, you won't be open to learning from your failures. You'll most likely lean toward hiding them. Also, realize that failures aren't a measure of who you are or your worthiness; instead, it is simply a natural process of growth and development.  Don't be afraid of failure. Accept that mistakes and failures are a natural and necessary part of growth and provide valuable learning experiences. Embracing and learning from failures will make you stronger, more resilient, and more likely to achieve greater success in the future. Accept failures as lessons to guide you toward more significant growth and success. You got this, and Father's got you! Thanks a bunch for listening!  Until Next Time, Live Fearlessly Free!

This week Pastor Travis bring us a message called Serving Our City.Jeremiah 7:1-7 (NKJV)7 The word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord, saying, 2 “Stand in the gate of the Lord's house, and proclaim there this word, and say, ‘Hear the word of the Lord, all you of Judah who enter in at these gates to worship the Lord!' ” 3 Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: “Amend your ways and your doings, and I will cause you to dwell in this place. 4 Do not trust in these lying words, saying, ‘The temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord are these.'5 “For if you thoroughly amend your ways and your doings, if you thoroughly execute [a]judgment between a man and his neighbor, 6 if you do not oppress the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place, or walk after other gods to your hurt, 7 then I will cause you to dwell in this place, in the land that I gave to your fathers forever and ever.Read Jeremiah 22:2-5 (NKJV)God cares about people. Help those who have been robbed.God wants you to help rescue people from oppressors. Don't mistreat foreigners .Don't mistreat orphans or widows.Read Matthew 5:38-48 (NLT)Love your enemies

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬ ‭NKJV‬‬ God wants us to seek His kingdom and his way of doing things. There is freedom in knowing that our Father loves us and sees us as servants and His sons. It's sorry to say in some churches there is a “perception of perfection” which makes us feel like we will never measure up which is “KingDumb.” We need to keep seeking our perfection and love in Him which is “Kingdom.” Please subscribe and listen to this podcast, I pray it blesses you!

Is this Word for you?The Lord sent me to encourage you. He is ushering in a season of rest for your weariness. He sees your faith and your struggle. There is rest for His people in this coming season. Your rest from the battle won't last long. But the lord will cause your enemies to be at peace with you like the lions who weren't allowed to attack Daniel. The Lord has shown me so many people are at a door of opportunity. And the enemy is standing at that door. It's an enemy from your past that has reared its ugly head lately. You thought the fight was over, but it's back. People from your past. Bad habits. Old strongholds are trying to recapture your heart and your worship. Be encouraged. You're not being recalled from service. You're being recalled from the battlefield. There is much more for you to accomplish in the Lord for your family and your ministry to the Lord. He will fight for you and you will hold your peace. The Lord showed me some of His children in playpens. He's calling you close for a time of recreation and rest. But you will be redeployed for battle. He knows what you can handle and He sees you've reached your limit. So he's going to “refortify” you. “Refortify” means to “strengthen and secure.”He wants to pour into you to strengthen you in your mind, body, and spirit. The battle has waged long and He's calling some of us to Himself for rest. I hear this verse for somebody:“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭13‬ ‭NKJV‬‬God is making a “way of escape” for you. He is “the Way.”Seek the Lord and rest in Him. Your rest is in worship and His presence. “But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.”‭‭I Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭10‬ ‭NKJV‬‬Support the showYou can support the ministry of FaithFire here. For text alerts when we go live or release future podcasts, text FAITHFIRE to 55498.

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7 NKJV God loves us more than an earthly father loves his children. God wants what is best for us. Just ask for anything, and He will provide! No matter what happens, your heavenly Father knows, God is there, loving us and providing what we need. God always wants what is best for us!

When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be made well?” John 5:6 NKJV God is the the Lord for all mankind. If you feel lost and distressed, Jesus wants to be your Lord. If you feel alone and nobody care for you, Jesus wants to be your Lord. You are not alone! He is your Lord, and He loves you so much.

You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever. Psalm 30:11-12 NKJV God is a God that will always comfort us. He understands that in our life we will face difficult challenges. He understands our mourning, but in Him, we would find eternal joy and eternal hope. In Him, we would find gladness, because His grace is sufficient for us.

“I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 18:14 NKJV God is the the Lord for all mankind. He is the Lord for those that are distressed. He is the Lord for those that are lost. He is the Lord for those that are needy. He provides all our needs. If you feel lost and distressed, Jesus wanted to be your Lord. If you feel alone and nobody cared for you, Jesus wanted to be your Lord. He wanted to be with you, He wanted a future with you, the future full of hope and loves for you. He is your Lord, and He loves you so much and He is the merciful Lord!

"whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. 15 Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.”" James 4:14-15 NKJV God always has a wonderful plan for us. We may think that we have the best plan, but God have a better plan for us. Things may change, as we do not know what the future holds, but believe in God that He have the best intention for you. He will never leave you or make your life difficult, but He wants you to have a peaceful life.

And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.” Luke 10:25-37 (NKJV) God will take care of us, in every aspect of our life. Do not worry about what we will face in our life, because God take care of it. Do not worry, He will comfort us and deliver us. Believe in Him, and His power, He will save us.

Episode Summary:  Nancy Kay Grace and I talk about how to overcome low self-esteem with audacious grace that sustains us. Nancy shares where low self-esteem comes from and how we can overcome and combat it by taking our thoughts captive. By the grace of God, we can overcome. Quotables from the episode: In studying grace, I see that God provides salvation through grace but also grace for daily life. Grace sustains us in all the seasons of life. We are then to be grace givers to share grace with the hurting world. Part of overcoming low self-esteem is learning to rest in His refuge of his love and peace. It's a gift when we accept God's gift of peace and realize no matter what, God is with us. I determined to use my faltering tongue to speak for God. Low self-esteem is often the result of comparison, the performance trap, perfectionism, and people pleasing. God accepts me as I am, and I can become a new creation. All grace starts with God. He makes himself known to us. He gave us the ultimate gift of grace in Jesus Christ. Hope in God is a secure foundation in ever-changing life situations. When I struggle with depression, I have to recall God's promises of hope and what his word says about my worth. To combat low self-esteem, we need to change our view of ourselves for God's view of us. Learn God's word so that you can replace negative thinking with God's truth. It's not easy, but through grace, God will help us take our thoughts captive. Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NKJV) “God is able to make all grace abound to you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things at all times, may have an abundance for every good work.”    Psalm 42:5,11 (NIV) “Why, my soul, are you so downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put you hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” Psalm 139:14 (NIV) “I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.  John 14:27 (NIV) “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Recommended Resources: The Grace Impact by Nancy Kay Grace The Search for Significance by Robert McGee Lies Women Believe by Nancy Leigh DeMoss Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety's Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety's Grip Free Study Guide  Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety's Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor's Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader's Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader's Choice Award How To Help a Depressed Loved One free eBook Social Media Links for Guest and Host: Connect with Nancy Kay Grace: Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Pinterest For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety's Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Nancy Kay Grace enjoys sharing coffee and conversation. She is a Bible teacher, speaker, and award-winning author of The Grace Impact, a devotional about God's grace in our lives. Nancy is married to her favorite pastor, and is enjoying the stage of life with two married children and six precious grandchildren. For relaxation, Nancy loves hugs from grandchildren, playing piano, and hiking. Nancy's blog and GraceNotes newsletter signup are found at www.nancykaygrace.com. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson  

Pastor David shares Wednesday in Dickinson. Review: Last week, we saw that God gave us the Power of Attorney to use the Name of Jesus. It is by the Name of Jesus that we have access to all of Heaven's resources: they are all at our disposal through the Name of Jesus! Matthew 28:18-19 (NLT) Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. [19] Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. A Name is only as good as the power and authority that back it My name will not get you very far if you want military clearance. But if you had the name of a top military officer and his approval, with documentation that you have his approval, you could go wherever he said you could go! See, a name is only as good as the authority backing that name. The More Excellent Name: How it came Three ways a great name may be attained: Some people are born to a great name (They inherit it) Some people make their name great because of their achievements (by conquest) Other have a great name given to them (by bestowal) Jesus' Great Name came through all three avenues: He inherited His great Name, His Name is great because of His achievements, and His Name is great because it was given to Him By Inheritance Hebrews 1:1-6 (NKJV) God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, [2] has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds; [3] who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, [4] having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. [5] For to which of the angels did He ever say: "YOU ARE MY SON, TODAY I HAVE BEGOTTEN YOU"? And again: "I WILL BE TO HIM A FATHER, AND HE SHALL BE TO ME A SON"? [6] But when He again brings the firstborn into the world, He says: "LET ALL THE ANGELS OF GOD WORSHIP HIM." Jesus inherited a more excellent Name than the angels When did Jesus inherit that more excellent Name? It was not when He was in Heaven! He had everything in heaven. Verses 4 and 5 tell us that it was when Jesus was begotten. Hebrews 1:4-5 (AMPC) [Taking a place and rank by which] He Himself became as much superior to angels as the glorious Name (title) which He has inherited is different from and more excellent than theirs. For to which of the angels did [God] ever say, You are My Son, today I have begotten You [established You in an official Sonship relation, with kingly dignity]? And again, I will be to Him a Father, and He will be to Me a Son? So we can see that it was the moment that Jesus was begotten and established in an official Sonship relationship that He inherited that great Name. But WHEN WAS JESUS BEGOTTEN? It was not when He took on flesh as a baby in Bethlehem. Jesus was not born when He took on flesh, because He preexisted with the Father. He simply took upon Himself a body. Hebrews 10:5 (NKJV) Therefore, when He came into the world, He said: "SACRIFICE AND OFFERING YOU DID NOT DESIRE, BUT A BODY YOU HAVE PREPARED FOR ME. In John 1:1-3,14 we see that He preexisted with the Father: 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. The day Jesus was begotten: Acts 13:33 (NKJV) God has fulfilled this for us their children, in that He has raised up Jesus. As it is also written in the second Psalm: 'YOU ARE MY SON, TODAY I HAVE BEGOTTEN YOU.' The day that Jesus was begotten and established in an official Sonship relationship was the DAY OF THE RESURRECTION! The day that Jesus tasted death and hell for us! Hebrews 2:9 (NKJV) But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that He, by the grace of God, might taste death for everyone. Jesus experienced physical and spiritual death for us! His death on the cross was more than His body dying, but He Who knew no sin and had never sinned BECAME sin for us, and His spirit died as well and He went into hell for three days until God SNATCHED Him from the grave and raised Him to life and sat Him down at His right hand. Matthew 27:45-46 (NKJV) Now from the sixth hour until the ninth hour there was darkness over all the land. [46] And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?" that is, "MY GOD, MY GOD, WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME?" (ALSO IN MARK 15:34) The death Jesus experienced was for us! He swapped places with us 2 Corinthians 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. 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. When we receive Jesus we become a new creation and receive a new nature - one with the life and peace of God. We take upon ourselves the nature of God – which is life and peace, where the devil's nature is hatred and lies. We don't know specifically what happened in hell, but we do know that Jesus took care of spiritual death for us! Acts 2:25-31 (NKJV) For David says concerning Him: 'I FORESAW THE LORD ALWAYS BEFORE MY FACE, FOR HE IS AT MY RIGHT HAND, THAT I MAY NOT BE SHAKEN. [26] THEREFORE MY HEART REJOICED, AND MY TONGUE WAS GLAD; MOREOVER MY FLESH ALSO WILL REST IN HOPE. [27] FOR YOU WILL NOT LEAVE MY SOUL IN HADES, NOR WILL YOU ALLOW YOUR HOLY ONE TO SEE CORRUPTION. [28] YOU HAVE MADE KNOWN TO ME THE WAYS OF LIFE; YOU WILL MAKE ME FULL OF JOY IN YOUR PRESENCE.' [29] "Men and brethren, let me speak freely to you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. [30] Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, He would raise up the Christ to sit on his throne, [31] he, foreseeing this, spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades, nor did His flesh see corruption. Conclusion: “You will not be able to understand the authority in the Name of Jesus until you understand that Jesus tasted spiritual death and satisfied the claims of justice on behalf of each on of us when He died as our substitute.” - Bro. Hagin, “The Name of Jesus” When Jesus was in hell, God said, “It is enough,” and then He raised Jesus up from hell and the grave. He took His spirit and soul out of hell and raised His

Those who preach the gospel are wise because they turn many away from the path of destruction to eternal life. Many who have caught the vision of God have come to realize that even a soul won into the Kingdom of God is worth it. A great eternal reward awaits them because they fulfilled the heartbeat of God. Those who are wise shall shine Like the brightness of the firmament, And those who turn many to righteousness Like the stars forever and ever. (Daniel 12:3 NKJV) God has found many vessels of honour from the Bible times even to our modern-day who gave themselves wholly to His service. Those men and women are not Angels, they are not necessarily so gifted and talented but they are children who knew their Father's will and are willing to lay their lives to do it. Every prayer unprayed for the lost, every moment of refusal to share the testimony of Christ, and every chance missed to hand out a tract are all disappointment to heaven. Are you doing the will of your Father in heaven?

"And some seed fell among thorns; and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no crop. But other seed fell on good ground and yielded a crop that sprang up, increased and produced: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.” And He said to them, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!" Mark 4:7-9 NKJV God graciously gives us faith to believe in Jesus. God loves to see us grow! God wanted us to be fruitful in this world. He wanted the best to happen in our life. But the devil wanted to take away what God had given us. The cares of the world and fear of persecution will also make us stumble. But if we hear the Word of God and accept it, we will bear fruit and be fruitful in our life.

“As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love.” John 15:9 NKJV God is the the Lord for all mankind. He is the Lord for those that are distressed. He is the Lord for those that are lost. He is the Lord for those that are needy. He provides all our needs. If you feel lost and distressed, Jesus wanted to be your Lord. If you feel alone and nobody cared for you, Jesus wanted to be your Lord. He wanted to be with you, He wanted a future with you, the future full of hope and loves for you. He is your Lord, and He loves you so much!

“Then, looking up to heaven, He sighed, and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.” Immediately his ears were opened, and the impediment of his tongue was loosed, and he spoke plainly.” Mark 7:34-35 NKJV God's ways are not only higher than ours, but they are also better than ours. The big choice we have is whether or not we will embrace them. There is a blessing and a hope that comes from embracing God's ways. The good news is that the blessing comes even when you don't understand what God is doing. As God reveals Himself to us, our need to be in control of all of life's mysteries fades, our faith deepens, and our ability to trust Him is perfected. We are given the power to walk in full confidence that our God is faithful and true.

Recently, the Lord had me praying for fire and oil.“And you shall command the children of Israel that they bring you pure oil of pressed olives for the light, to cause the lamp to burn continually.”‭‭Exodus‬ ‭27:20‬ ‭NKJV‬‬God's desire is our fire will never burn out.But we must seek the oil, we must pay the price.  We must allow ourselves to be pressed and crushed as living sacrifices. We, indeed, have a choice:  We can live with the oil of Holy Spirit, or we can live without the oil of Holy Spirit.“Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.”‭‭Matthew‬ ‭25:3-4‬ ‭NKJV‬‬We all have lamps.We all have the potential to shine light.Be we don't all have the POWER to shine.To have oil, we must become more like Him.  And that means we live to love like Him.We live for Him.We live to serve the Father. Your oil comes from your sweet surrender.---

Acts 16:25-2625 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, 26 and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's bonds were unfastened.Prayer and worshipAbout midnight Paul and Silas were prayingIt is interesting that the word "praying" (proseuchomai) here in verse 25 meanPrayer associated with corporate worship.Paul and Silas were also singing hymns of praise to God while in prison. The tense (imperfect) of the verb singing subjects that Paul and Silas began singing in the past and they never stopped singing, even while locked in prison.Did they "feel" like worshiping? Probably not. They were likely aching, tired, and scared. But they were determined to give glory to God, who they trusted was in control of their situation.The MiracleThere was the movement of God. In this instance God moved through an earthquake. In other instances He will move in other ways.​The earthquake had sprung open the jail doors, allowing the prisoners to escapeThe jailer, feeling helpless and hopeless, drew his sword to kill himself. He knew the terrible shame and punishment awaiting him and the shame coming upon his family due to his letting the prisoners escapeRather than escape, Paul and Silas stayed right in their cell and somehow persuaded the rest of the prisoners to do so as well. God's intent on this occasion was not the physical deliverance of his servants, but the spiritual deliverance of the jailer and his family.The jailerHe questioned Paul and Silas, what must I do to be saved?The disciples were God's instruments for proclaiming salvation. They were tired and sore and it was the wee hours of the morning, yet they did not put the matter off until morning. They took time right then and there to meet the man's need.We may not always experience a visibly dramatic rescue like Paul and Silas,  But we know that God responds to the praises of His people! When He moves, chains fall apart.Psalm 22:3 (NKJV) “[God], You are holy, enthroned in the praises of Israel.” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myeveningdevotional.substack.com

Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.” John 5:8 NKJV God is the answer to any questions in our life. We face lots of unknowns in our life, where there will be no way to know the answer. But Jesus always have the answer, because He is a living God, a God that is capable to do great things. He can make miracles in your life. Any miracles you need, He can deliver it to you! Do not despair, do not worry, He will make miracle in your life! Believe in Him and have faith, there is always a way out!

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29 NKJV God always has a wonderful plan for us. We may think that we have the best plan, but God has a better plan for us. Things may change, as we do not know what the future holds, but believe in God that He has the best intention for you. He will never leave you or make your life difficult, but He wants you to have a peaceful life.

The easiest thing in the world is to love Jesus and know that He loves you. Look at Him, believe, and raise your voice in worship. Hear Him say your name and explain the depth of His love for you. Wake up dressed in confidence when He says "good morning". This episode will position you to encounter the Lord every day for the rest of your life.   Show Notes: Today you take the first definitive step in your prophetic call. You discover Jesus through worship. Trust me, this your new favorite way to connect with Him. What you learn now, trumps everything else you learned in this podcast. Worship to meet your need for acceptance. Worship to surpass warfare. Worship to know the God who loves you so much.   "When you worship with Jesus, you truly understand the word beloved." - Craig Toach   What You Will Learn   1: How to Worship for Intimacy With Jesus Grow closer to Jesus by shutting everything out. You'll leave with His DNA and love.   2: How to Overcome Your Battles With Worship Amplify Jesus. Darkness cannot overpower the light.   3: How to Feel God's Love Lay every stress down. You don't have to carry it. In the presence of the Lord there is no fear, doubt, and depression.   Go Deeper Into the Subject of Prophetic Worship Prophetic Anointing Course Prophetic Anointing Book   Related Episodes Worship - The Love Language of Jesus (Ep. 24) True Worship: The Heart of a Prophet (Ep. 39) Get Praised Up to Be Prayed Up! (Ep. 53) Super Charge Your Worship by Singing With the Angels (Ep. 154) Worship in Tongues Often and Enter the Secret Place Where Your Miracle Awaits (Ep. 190) Scriptures That Improve Your Worship Sessions Ephesians 1:5-6 NKJV Having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.   John 4:24 NKJV God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.   2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NKJV Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any [a]trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.   Psalms 63:3-4 NKJV 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.   Sponsor The Next Gen Prophets Podcast Take this message further. Be responsible for raising the Next Generation of Prophets   Get Your Free E-book an 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: NextGen Prophets Follow the NextGen Prophets Instagram: NextGen Prophets Instagram  

Description The easiest thing in the world is to love Jesus and know that He loves you. Look at Him, believe, and raise your voice in worship. Hear Him say your name and explain the depth of His love for you. Wake up dressed in confidence when He says "good morning". This episode will position you to encounter the Lord every day for the rest of your life. Show Notes: Today you take the first definitive step in your prophetic call. You discover Jesus through worship. Trust me, this your new favorite way to connect with Him. What you learn now, trumps everything else you learned in this podcast. Worship to meet your need for acceptance. Worship to surpass warfare. Worship to know the God who loves you so much. "When you worship with Jesus, you truly understand the word beloved." - Craig Toach What You Will Learn 1: How to Worship for Intimacy With Jesus Grow closer to Jesus by shutting everything out. You'll leave with His DNA and love. 2: How to Overcome Your Battles With Worship Amplify Jesus. Darkness cannot overpower the light. 3: How to Feel God's Love Lay every stress down. You don't have to carry it. In the presence of the Lord there is no fear, doubt, and depression. Go Deeper Into the Subject of Prophetic Worship Prophetic Anointing Course Prophetic Anointing Book Related Episodes Worship - The Love Language of Jesus (Ep. 24) True Worship: The Heart of a Prophet (Ep. 39) Get Praised Up to Be Prayed Up! (Ep. 53) Super Charge Your Worship by Singing With the Angels (Ep. 154) Worship in Tongues Often and Enter the Secret Place Where Your Miracle Awaits (Ep. 190) Scriptures That Improve Your Worship Sessions Ephesians 1:5-6 NKJV Having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved. John 4:24 NKJV God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NKJV Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any [a]trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.  Psalms 63:3-4 NKJV 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. Sponsor The Next Gen Prophets Podcast Take this message further. Be responsible for raising the Next Generation of Prophets Get Your Free E-book an 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: NextGen Prophets Follow the NextGen Prophets Instagram: NextGen Prophets Instagram  

The Bible says, 'But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.' Do you KNOW what God EXPECTS of YOU? FAITH! He WANTS you to TRUST His WORD, His CHARACTER and His track record of FAITHFULNESS. It is IMPOSSIBLE to please Him if you DON'TS have faith. The DIFFICULTY you are DEALING with RIGHT now may HAVE to do with WHERE you are in YOUR faith WALK with God. That DOESN'T mean if you are GOING through TROUBLE, you DON'T have FAITH. But while it MAY not be a LACK of FAITH that got you INTO trouble, it's the STRENGTH of your FAITH that will BRING you THROUGH it. You say, 'But shouldn't l be RATIONAL?' Yes, but don't be so RATIONAL that you FAIL to LEAVE room for the supernatural. Narcissism is the WORSHIP of our OWN INTELLECT. We say, 'if l don't understand it, l don't believe it.' Then, in ESSENCE, you are your OWN god! You DON'T really BELIEVE in God, you BELIEVE in you. What are you going to do when life hands you a problem you can't solve?Before Christ RAISED Lazarus from the DEAD He ASKED Mary and Martha to take Him BACK to the grave, the place where they STOPPED BELIEVING, the point at which they gave up because of HUMAN limitation. Why? Because only WHEN you reach THAT point, do you DISCOVER that God ' is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that [you] ask or think....' Ephesians 3:20 NKJV] God's servant Rev Alfred Acheampong Prayer Point : Heavenly Father thank You that my faith will not fail in the day of adversity and that l will always maintain a possibility faith in all circumstances of life. Anchor Scripture: 'WITHOUT FAITH IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE HIM...' (Hebrews 11:6 NKJV) Stay Blessed! YearOfSupernaturalProvision

“And his servants came near and spoke to him, and said, “My father, if the prophet had told you to do something great, would you not have done it? How much more then, when he says to you, ‘Wash, and be clean'?” So he went down and dipped seven times in the Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God; and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.” ‭‭II Kings‬ ‭5:13-14‬ ‭NKJV‬‬ God will see our faith, and He will always reward our faithfulness. If we have faith and do not worry, He will always reward us. He will always help us if we have faith. He will always provide us with answers if we believe in Him and do not doubt Him. If we trust in His Word, there will always be an answer.

Ephesians 1:3-7,NLT- All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.4, Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.5, God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.6, So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on use who belong to his dear Son.7, He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins. And I know we've discussed this topic many times but God continues bringing me back to it. It's not we couldn't receive more clarity, further revelation into the realities of our new world. Our new identity. And the first thing we've got to be clear on is our right standing with Him through Jesus. The moment we give our lives to Jesus, we're not only new creations, but now heirs of His world. You see, I love v.6, He made us the accepted in the beloved. Heirs of His world. And that's the driving thought behind our new talk “Two Worlds.” We are born into a completely new world, which is 100% spiritual. Right now we belong to two worlds. Natural and Spiritual. And even though confined to this natural, according to Jesus, we're no longer of it. This is why Paul made crazy statements like, “walk in the spirit, not in the flesh.” Think about it, how often would you say you're applying spiritual principles in your daily lives? Remember James, “be doers not just hearers.” God wants us living spirit led lives. Making spirit led decisions about every aspect of our lives. And that starts with being more spiritually minded. But let's be honest, most of us, most of the time are more aware of and committed to this natural world than our new world because its just easier, it's more real to us. It's what we're use to. And this is what I love about Ephesians, it provides clarity. For example, the church is His body, us in Him, Him in us, expressing the fullness of His reality. Ephesians 1:22-23,NKJV-  He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all. So, if we're in Him, and Him in us, if we're His church, His body, the fullness of Him, how much of a reality of this truth are we actually in pursuit of? Everybody knows Jeremiah 29:11, I know the plans I have for you, plans of a future you hope for, an expected end. But I want to highlight v.13,Jeremiah 29:13 NKJV- You will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. MSG- When you come looking for Me, you'll find Me. Yes, when you get serious about finding Me and want it more than anything else, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed. And even though Paul is telling us, because of our new identity, we can actually bring the realities of His world into this natural world;just like the things of this natural world don't just happen, neither do the thing of the spirit. Being successful in our new world isn't any different than being successful in this world Listen to what God says in Jeremiah, When you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed.”This is one of Paul's key points in this letter in Ephesians. He isn't praying for God to do a something new, he's praying the we can see, that we can comprehend what God has already done. Listen to his prayer in chapter one;May the eyes of your understanding being enlightened;That we know what is the hope of His calling,That we know what the riches of the glory of His inheritance is.And that we know what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe.Then the apostle John give further clarity, 1 John our born again nature in this world is just like Christ. Made in His image and likeness.But we've got to recognize, God gave us free will by design. The choice is ours.1 Thessalonians 5:23,NKJV- Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.SPIRITSOULBODYAnd here's the deal, when our soul is renewed with God's word, we believe Him. At that point our soul and spirit are in agreement, causing the body to come in line. Or in the words of James, we become doers of the word.But when our soul stays in agreement with our body, our human nature, human nature rules, resulting in unbelief. And we find ourselves saying things like, if the power of God was working in my life, I'd see it, feel it, experience it, etc…We have to understand that according to v.19-20, we have the same power living in our spirits that raised Christ from the dead.This is why Jesu told us, “rivers of living water will flow out of you”We need to believe God to show us how to draw from that river, to draw out of the life He's already given us.You ready to be stretched a little more?Ephesians 1:22-23 NKJV- And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.A head doesn't go anywhere with its body. Example, you see someone's car and there goes so and so. You don't say there goes their car.Don't forget, last week we cover this faith stretching revelation;Ephesians 2:4-6,NKJV- God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together,and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.Our spirit, our born again nature is in Christ right now. Raised with Him, seated with Him in heavenly places. Not gonna be!!We have been made alive, delivered. The Holy Spirit quickens our mortal bodies right now. But understand this, it's not that we reach some sinless perfection, but the revelation and acknowledgment of our resurrected lives.Philemon 6,NKJV- That the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.But when we fail to do this, we find ourselves still dominated by our human natureEphesians 4, Be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.The more we yield to our new man the less we yield to our human nature.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.Here's the thing, revealed in us, not to us.Ephesians 3:8-10,NKJV- To me, who am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ;to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places.Here's the deal, everything about this new life in Christ hinges on our faith.And it's crucial we understand real faith is our correct, positive response to what God has already done.Faith doesn't move God. Faith is the created response, receiving, reaching into the unseen world and appropriating that world.

Ephesians 1:3-7,NLT- All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.4, Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.5, God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.6, So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son.7, He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins. Jesus alone, through His sacrifice, by His grace makes us accepted in God's family. This is why Paul could boldly say, “Its only by the grace of God that I am what I am.” So today, as we gather around the Lord's table, get this reality settled in your thinking; we have been blessed with every spiritual blessing. We are chosen by Him to be holy before Him. To the praise of His grace. At the end of the day, when it comes to God's grace and goodness, the question we've all got to answer is; just exactly how much of what God tells us do we honestly believe? Seriously, if God, our Father tells us we're forgiven, blessed, prosperous, favored, healed, why wouldn't we accept what He says as truth? Why shouldn't we believe, do and say what my Father tells us? Whether you've walked with Jesus most of your life, or you're just starting your journey,Because of human nature, because we have an enemy, there will be times when we question the things of God's unseen kingdom. Remember, we belong to two worlds. The choice of which one we live out of is ours. I've set before you life and death, blessing and cursing, you choose. Romans 8:5-6,NKJV- For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. And it's in these times that we can come to the Lord's table, free of all sin, made completely righteous by His sacrifice, that sometimes is the reminder we need. I probably say this every time we take communion, but let's be real, we all need reminded, encouraged about what Jesus did for us. To set our mind on spiritual things. This is Paul's point in Ephesians, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing. Communion is one of the most spiritual things we get to do It's a divinely inspired place of revelation from the Father. Allowing us to see that Jesus alone made us worthy to stand in His presence. He made us heirs to the Kingdom through His sacrifice. May the eyes of our understanding be enlightened, that we can embrace the hope of His calling, so that we can walk in the riches of His glory, that we function in the exceeding greatness of His power. You see, some of the most spiritual clarity and revelation is around the Lords table. Starting with, Jesus said, this bread is his body broken for us. The cup is his blood shed for us. John 6:51,NKJV- “I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever...” John 10:10,(paraphrase), I came from Heaven to give you a rich and satisfying life. A better life than you've ever dreamed of. A life to enjoy in abundance, to the full, till it overflows. Today as we worship Him at His table, according to Hebrews, when we come to the Lord, we have to come to Him in faith. In the faith that it's only because of Jesus, only by His grace that any of us are able to stand in His presence. To have the privilege of being able to commune with our Creator. Communion isn't just acknowledging Jesus' sacrifice, it's embracing and reverencing the fact that Jesus actually restored us to our rightful place with God. Today as we honor and reverence our King's sacrifice, let His Spirit minister to you, embrace what Jesus did, what He said, embrace who you are because of Him. Ephesians 2:4-6,NKJV- God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together,and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus. This is why having moments like this, around the Lord's table allow us the privilege of drawing closer to Him. Of seeing clearer, who we are in Him. Remember, Jesus has already made us alive together with Him and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Him. And even though we belong to two worlds, because of Jesus, while still in this world, we're no longer of it. Understand, we're not just citizens of Heaven, we're heirs to the Kingdom, appointed ambassadors of our King, assigned here to establish the very same dominion our Father started everything with in Adam. And is now in Jesus. Truth is, our biggest battle isn't really the devil, or other people, it's our refusal to embrace a life beyond our humanity. This is why I love to make communion a special time, I truly believe communion allows us the privilege of coming boldly into His presence. Acknowledging and embracing exactly what Jesus did for us. Ephesians 2:10,AMP- For we are His workmanship, His own master work,a work of art created in Christ Jesus,reborn from above,spiritually transformed, renewed,ready to be used for good works, which God prepared for us beforehand, taking paths which He set, so that we would walk in them, living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us. And there is no better place to be reminded, no better place for fresh perspective, no better place to draw closer to Jesus than around the Lord's table. Let today's communion remind you that you are righteous in God's sight by Jesus' sacrifice. You are a brand new creation in Christ. Here's the thing, until the born-again actually embrace the realities of our new nature, God's grace and everything about His world will stay a mystery. 2 Peter 1:2-4,NKJV- Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord,as His divine power HAS GIVEN TO US ALL THINGS that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue,by which HAVE BEEN GIVEN TO US exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature. One of the most incredible realities about God's grace, about His divine power is that it's 100% based on His word and His character, not our conduct. And the blessed assurance every believer has today is that regardless of what we might face, Ephesians makes it very clear, we are in Christ and He is in us. And I love how the apostle Paul provides simplicity and clarity to our new lives in Christ; anyone united with Christ gets a fresh start, a new creation. The old life is gone; a new life is underway. All because God settled the relationship between us and Him. Communion reminds us not only of what Jesus saved us from, but what He saved is to. Think about it, we're going to Heaven, the place of no more pain, suffering, crying, and death. Communion stands as a memorial of an empty cross and an abandoned grave. Communion takes each of us back to when His incredible gift of grace changed our lives forever. Today as we gather around the Lord's table, embracing His amazing grace, we give Him a glory and honor, proclaiming His resurrection until He returns. Communion stands as our eternal memorial of God's amazing grace. Maybe this is why God told the apostle Paul, "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness." You see, this is one of the most awesome things grace does, it transforms us into the new person He's already created us to be. And through faith, we believe it, we accept it and experience it. Yielding to this kind of undeserving love and power is what enables every believer to rise above their old nature. Peter says it like this out of the Message, What a God we have... Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we've been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now! Remember, communion is 100% spiritual. It's a divinely inspired place of revelation from the Father.Boldly proclaiming Jesus alone made us worthy to stand in His presence. He made us heirs to the Kingdom through His sacrifice. May the eyes of our understanding be enlightened, that we can embrace the hope of His calling, so that we can walk in the riches of His glory, that we function in the exceeding greatness of His power. 1 Corinthians 11:26,NKJV- For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death till He comes.

Colossians 3:2 NKJV God wants us to shift out thoughts to things above. Don't trip off of what we see in the natural, it's a distraction. When we shift our thoughts we change our sight. Our thoughts guide our focus. Focus on God and we'll see God in everything. The good in everything. This world is temporary and ever changing but, the Lord is eternal and we will live after we die with Him.Be blessed but more importantly be a blessing.

 Here we are, turning the page on another year, and as I was waiting on the Lord's leading, here's something I began to entertain;Although we find ourselves consumed with time, truth be told, even though confined to humanity, we are, right now eternal people. Which means we should probably maintain a little more of an eternal perspective. And the only way that happens is by allowing the eternal book to inspire, challenge, motivate, to direct us toward the realities contained within it's pages. The psalmist tells us, God's word is what enlightens our path, renews our soul to His world, literally showing us the difference between the two worlds. And because we are His born again, new creations, we have to be able to see, to comprehend what He's saying. “You see what I'm saying?” Something Jesus told His disciples on more than one occasion is there are those who have eyes to see but they can't.Seriously, eyes but can't see. What's that remind you of? 2 Corinthians 4:18,NKJV- While 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. Lets be real for a second, we've all found ourselves at times not being able to see what the Lord is saying.Usually because our focus is some where else. The entrance to God's eternal world is through His word. It is the lens a human, born of the spirits uses to see the thing that's not seen. You see what I'm saying? And this talk is to remind all of us, God has a success plan for every one willing to follow Him. To take His promises, to trust Him and do what He says. Joshua 6:1-2,NKJV- Now Jericho was securely shut up because of the children of Israel; none went out, and none came in.And the LORD said to Joshua: See! I have given Jericho into your hand, its king, and the mighty men of valor. 1 Corinthians 10:11,AMP- Now these things happened to them as an example and warning to us; they were written for our instruction, to admonish and equip us, upon whom the ends of the ages have come. Here's the thing, all God's word is true and forever settled. So if Paul is telling us the things they did in rebellion are examples, make no mistake the things they did in obedience are also examples. Joshua 6, “See! I have given Jericho into your hand” Faith sees from God's perspective. Remember, these OT examples are left here for us, to learn the faith lessons from them. And Joshua is a perfect example, God not only gave him his assignment, but a detailed plan in implementing it. It's important we remember that before God told Joshua to take this major step of faith, He had already given him the key in his success. 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. Remember, the key to us seeing what He's saying will be through the lens if His word. Seriously is absolutely our key to a successful life in Him. Think about it, “day and night” A LIFESTYLE. And here's a quality we will always find in successful people, they do consistently what others will only do occasionally. I'm talking all aspects of life; spiritually, relationally, professionally, financially, etc… Galatians 6:9,NLT- “So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up.” Something we've got to stay open to is that when we start following our ancestors through the scriptures, we better stay open to the fact that a life with God is made for the supernatural, the impossible. Seriously, would God lead you into a situation you can't accomplish without Him? Into a situation that in the natural makes absolutely no sense? 1 Corinthians 1:27-29,NKJV- God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty;and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence. Here's the deal, as long as we allow our senses, emotions, intelligence to determine reality, we leave no room for faith. And a big part of the life of faith starts with us seeing ourselves the way God sees us, in His class, made in His image, heirs to His Kingdom. Not a religious image but an in Christ image. You see what I'm saying? All He has, He's already given. All His promises in Christ are yes, and in Him amen. His life, His nature, His wisdom and provision. Remember, God, our Father wants to be the El Shaddai of our lives. When a Christian can get to the place where what God says is more real than circumstance and experience, that person's faith will become the dominant force in our lives. The challenge for most of us is that we identity more with our natural world than our spiritual world. Remember Paul's instructions to us, we live our lives in a manner consistent with our CONFIDENT BELIEF IN GOD'S PROMISES. This is why Paul wrote his Holy Spirit inspired prayer in Ephesians, “Lord, open my eyes spiritually so I can comprehend what You've already done for me.”You see what I'm saying? I bring this up because being in God's family, He gives all of us Holy Spirit inspired dreams, plans, ideas, assignments, purposes.He's going to give each of us Holy Spirit inspired lives. Sometimes we simply need to be able to see what He's saying. Tho be open to maybe a fresh approach toward those Holy Spirt inspired dreams, our God given purposes, those ideas that might seem a little out there. “See! I have given Jericho into your hand” Maybe we could all use a talk like this to challenge us to role up our sleeves and get out there and experience some of God's promises. It's about daring to believe that God is exactly who He says He is. That He'll do exactly what He said He'll do. That being said, don't think for a second the life God has designed for you won't take you out of your comfort zone. One thing we should know about God given dreams and assignments is that they always challenge our faith, our vision, because He will take us from faith to faith. Remember Paul's encouraging words, the things written in the scriptures were written for our instruction and admonition. And the wonderful thing about our NT is that it will take us from glory to glory. If we'll let it. I means listen to what John tells us, you are of God, and He who is in you is greater than anything in this world. One thing we can definitely take away from Joshua is that no one ever reaches their dreams, fulfills their assignment, staying safely tucked away in their comfortable, risk free, unbelieving life. Sometimes that means choosing to trust what He tells us enough to be willing to take what at the moment may look like a crazy huge risk. Getting to this place is what empowers us to rise above the fears, failures, disappointments, excuses, and become the person God already knows we are. But here's the deal, the kicker, the one thing we all struggle with; To become this person, to discover our dreams, to step our assignment, to take ownership of our God life, we have to be open to CHANGE!!!!! Something I've discovered over the years is that way too many times, the only person stopping us, is us. Remember what John told us, you are of God, and He who is in you is greater than anything in this world. Wherever your dreams are, whatever your next assignment is, make today the day you take ownership of it. God wants nothing more than for you to discover this life. A life He's already seen you having. “See! I have given Jericho into your hand” You see what I'm saying! 

Text: Deuteronomy 6:1-7 (NKJV)God has given many responsibilities to a parent, both father and mother. While providing and protecting our children is at the top of the list, we also find at the top of the list that they are to be trained, especially receiving training that brings about spiritual knowledge and growth! From Deuteronomy 6 and Ephesians 6 we find specific instructions for the spiritual education of a child and it is clear that this teaching BEGINS in the HOME. Taking a page from the school system that says a child needs to learn the 3 Rs (reading, writing, and arithmetic), we find there are 3 Rs for spiritual training. We are to train our children to have a REVERENCE for God, to have a RESPECT for others, and to grow in being RESPONSIBLE for oneself! Sermon Notes Discussion Guide

“Our most vital role as a parent is to introduce our children to the One who can meet all their needs.” Today Stacy talks with best-selling author and single mom of seven, PeggySue Wells. Listen in as she shares the heart-mending, life-changing lessons the Lord taught her as she has journeyed through motherhood as a single mom.  Don't miss a moment because these lessons are going to minister to every single mom, no matter what stage, no matter what age, no matter what relationship status.    About our Guest: History buff, and tropical island votary, PeggySue Wells parasails, skydives, snorkels, scuba dives, and has taken (but not passed) pilot training. Her greatest adventure is being called Mama by seven awesome children, and Mimi! by my Grammy awards. Writing from the 100-Acre wood in Indiana, PeggySue is the USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon bestselling author of 29 books, translated into eight languages including The Ten Best Decisions A Single Mom Can Make, Chasing Sunrise, Homeless for the Holidays, The Slave Across the Street, and Bonding With Your Child Through Boundaries. She is the founder of SingleMomCircle.com.   Show Notes:                                                                                                           The “R” Parade: Rejection Resentment Resistance Revenge Repeat   Scripture: Jeremiah 3:8 (NIV) I gave faithless Israel her certificate of divorce and sent her away because of all her adulteries. Yet I saw that her unfaithful sister Judah had no fear; she also went out and committed adultery. Hebrews 4:16 (NKJV) Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. 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. Psalm 67:1-2 (NKJV) God be merciful to us and bless us, and cause His face to shine upon us, Selah That Your way may be known on earth, Your salvation among all nations. Psalm 115:14-15 (NKJV) May the Lord give you increase more and more, You and your children. May you be blessed by the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Romans 10:9 (NKJV) 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.  Ephesians 3:18-19 (NKJV) may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height—  to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Psalm 139:13 (NIV) For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. Psalm 18:1-2 (NKJV) I will love You, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Isaiah 40:11 (NIV) He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. Books:   “10 Best Decisions a Single Mom Can Make” by Pam Farrel and PeggySue Wells “Homeless for the Holidays” by PeggySue Wells “Chasing Sunrise” by PeggySue Wells   Links: https://singlemomcircle.com https://www.peggysuewellsdoesntwritelikeagirl.com https://momsinprayer.org/gift-of-confession-bible-study/ https://momsinprayer.org/new-to-moms-in-prayer/ https://momsinprayer.org/join-a-group To give to the ministry of Moms in Prayer: Support Our Mission | Moms In Prayer International Moms in Prayer International- www.MomsInPrayer.org

Sunday 13 June This Mystery Called Joy 7. A lovely day to you in the name of Jesus. We thank God for this Sunday and I trust your day is going well. A close study of the bible reveals a connection between Joy and Anointing? The anointing of the Holy Spirit is simply God's enablement on our lives that helps us do what we cannot do naturally. There is a direct connection between the joy of the Lord in our lives and the level of anointing we walk in. Isaiah 10: 27 (NIV), 27 In that day their burden will be lifted from your shoulders, their yoke from your neck; the yoke will be broken because you have grown so fat. The King James' Version and some other versions used the word “anointing” instead of the word “fat”. So, the verse reads “…the yoke will be broken because of the anointing” Oil is actually fat at a hotter temperature. The anointing is likened to oil and so is joy. A yoke is the old English word used to describe a wooden or metal contraption used to hold two cows together so they can pull a plough. The yoke weighs down on their neck, restricting their movement and is very uncomfortable and a burden for these animals. Prophet Isaiah was saying, “there is sometimes like an invisible yoke on people's neck making life unbearable and uncomfortable, but whatever the yoke is, when you grow “fat” it will be destroyed. And remember, the anointing which can be likened to oil, is fat at a hotter level but not only that the Prophet Isaiah also talked about the “oil of Joy”. Just as the yoke is broken when we grow fat, the yoke is broken when the oil of joy increases in our lives. King Josephat had 3 strong nations attack his kingdom, he was frightened, tired and cried. The burden of the situation weighed him down, not knowing what to do, he declared a national fast. The instruction that came after the fast looked foolish but they did what God instructed. The initial jolt of fear gave way to joyous faith as they marched out to face their enemies. When the heaviness, hopelessness and sense of helplessness disappeared, the anointing appeared and destroyed the enemies and they were victorious. I challenge you to go out joyfully this week irrespective of the situation that is burdensome to you and watch how the anointing of joy will break and destroy every burden in your way in Jesus' Name. “For you shall go out with joy, And be led out with peace; The mountains and the hills Shall break forth into singing before you…” Is. 55:12 NKJV God bless you. Enjoy your day.

For the earth which drinks in the rain that often comes upon it, and bears herbs useful for those by whom it is cultivated, receives blessing from God. (Hebrews 6:7, NKJV)God gives to us. Everything we need is in Him. We receive from Him. Just as the earth receives the rain as a blessing from God, we receive what we need from our good Father. Be wide in your receiving like a wide receiver in football. He does not initiate. He doesn't throw the ball, but rather receives what is being thrown to him.  A surfer watches the waves and receives the one that comes. He doesn't create the waves, but rather receives it. An inspired musician or author often describe a "receiving" of the music/word that comes to them from a bigger Source.I saw the truth that Jesus was bigger than I thought He was. What He did was bigger than I thought it was. His love for me was bigger than I thought it was. His graciousness towards me was bigger than I originally thought. When you see this Truth, you almost can't help to become prone and be at rest and receive. It's all about Him.Support the show (https://paypal.me/RickManis?locale.x=en_US)

J.A. Jones shared with us 15 Keys to Get Out Of Debt In 2021. The scripture tells us when read, "The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is servant to the lender." Proverbs 22:7 NKJV  God's plan is for us to be generous givers, in order to do that it's important to not be buried in debt. These are spiritual and practical things we can do to be on our way to keeping more money in our bank accounts and pockets.  J.A. Jones' service is to help others that are stuck in mental strongholds through encouragement, authenticity, and biblical wisdom. He will help you get better, be free and live a joy filled life.  This book "The Power of the Tongue: 30 Days to Better Relationships by Dr. Jones has helped hundreds of people to become better with their words, actions and behaviors. It will help to improve any relationship. Buy it and you'll be glad you did.  J.A. Jones's contact information is below: Email: jajones77@att.net Mailing address: 1268 Gano Avenue, Orange Park, Florida 32073 Instagram

Psalm 46:1–3 (NKJV) "God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; 3 Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah Pastor James Jackson Faithlife: House of Prayer Family Church MeWe: James Jackson

Advent 2 December 6, 2020 A+D Romans 15:4 St. Paul writes: “For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” (Romans 15:4, NKJV) God creates … Continue reading →

Choose Joy with Tisa podcast | Simple prayers for a complex world www.tisajones.com Prayer to Deal with Disappointment | Choose Joy with Tisa | Daily Effective Prayer //Daily Effective Prayer – New Leaf Series ***Daily Prayers*** CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/tsjones?sub_confirmation=1 ***PRAYER OF SALVATION*** https://tisajones.com/112-prayer-for-salvation //PRAYER PLAYLIST Prayer Meditation Music https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8dnTidTksSVzJKof5IpAc_l3sGPnkiGI Prayers for Health, Healing and Wellness https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8dnTidTksSU3QLMtsah6IaCyYPljvAO6 Prayers for Safety and Protection https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8dnTidTksSWbNIDdaiqluHY5s731eoOx Prayers for Strong Faith https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8dnTidTksSUOWMjVTYZ0bi2NY6dP1SkO Prayers of Encouragement https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8dnTidTksSUPEr-QDvS7YUyM9k5Wigof Prayers of Hope https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8dnTidTksSWguUQCqbh4ViyZL37tvWsk Prayers of Praise https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8dnTidTksSXAL5UW0QK0LO9bqxRIomZa Prayers of Prosperity https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8dnTidTksSUvLttJYB8k-KXfTf5Rz8PX Meditate on these verses with this prayer: Do not let your heart envy sinners, But be zealous for the fear of the Lord all the day; For surely there is a hereafter, And your hope will not be cut off. Proverbs 23:17‭-‬18 NKJV‬‬‬‬ https://bible.com/bible/114/pro.23.17-18.NKJV Then the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry. Habakkuk 2:2‭-‬3 NKJV‬‬‬‬ https://bible.com/bible/114/hab.2.2-3.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? Numbers 23:19 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/num.23.19.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 https://bible.com/bible/114/rom.8.28.NKJV Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. James 5:16 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/jas.5.16.NKJV A man’s heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps. Proverbs 16:9 NKJV https://bible.com/bible/114/pro.16.9.NKJV #strongfaith #disappointment #choosejoywithtisa © Copyright https://tisajones.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/choosejoywithtisa/message

“He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.” (2 Timothy 1:9 NKJV)God's purpose for your life is not about you.We exist for God; He does not exist for us. God loves doing things for His people, but the rea­son we get up in the morning is to fulfill His purpose for our lives, not merely to ask Him to bless our purpose for our lives.  Until we understand that we exist for Him, we will never know our purpose for being.“For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth…all things were created through him and for him.” (Colossians 1:16 ESV)The purpose for your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It's greater than your family, your career, and your ambitions. If you want to know why you were placed on this planet, you must begin with God.  You were born by his purpose and for his purpose.The reason the search for the purpose of life has been such a struggle is because we typically begin at the wrong starting point - ourselves.  We ask self-centered questions like: What do I want to be? What should I do with my life? What are my goals, my ambitions, and my dreams for my future?Being successful and fulfilling your life's purpose are not the same issue. You can reach all your personal goals, and become a huge success by the world's standards, and still miss the purposes for which God created you.God's purpose for your life is mostly about what He is doing in you.“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23)God is more concerned with who you are in Christ, than what you do for Christ.Being precedes doing. God's purpose for your life is to do the good works God has prepared for you.“For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)You were put on earth to make a contribution. You are not here to just consume resources - to eat, breath, and take up space. God designed you to make a difference with your life. You were created to serve God. When you do these “good works” you are actually serving God.God's purpose - faithfulness where you are right now. When you don't know what to do…do what you know to do.  Do what is in front of you.Your purpose life's purpose is not just one thing - it is a series of things. Wherever you are in life make sure it reflects Jesus.  You will never stop seeking God's purpose.Today's Challenge: Remember these three truths: God's purpose for your life begins with God, not you. Second, his purpose is about what he is doing in you to make you like Jesus. Third, your purpose is to do the good works God has prepared for you.Discussion Questions:Why do you think so many people struggle with finding their God-given purpose?Do you know what your purpose/purposes is?How can people determine their purpose?Recommended Resource: Discover Your True Self: How to Silence the Lies of Your Past and Actually Experience Who God Says You Are by Chip IngramVisit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick

Outline: https://bit.ly/3kQXMS2Subtitle: The Christian home – Keys to a happy Family lifeOur current focus is on "God in the Family", or "God-Empowered Families".The basic building block of any society or nation is the family unitIf the family unit is strong then the nation will be strongIf the family unit is broken down, the nation will be broken down alsoThe seeds of family breakdown are many times sown in people's lives during their childhood, through:Observing & adopting dysfunctional family dynamicsLack of proper child training & wrong child trainingJesus came to bring Grace & Truth to Individuals and to FamiliesJohn 1:14,17 (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. 17 __For the law was given through Moses, but _ grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. _The Bible is divided into two major parts or time periods.The Old Testament (O.T.)The New Testament (N.T.)A broad summary of the main theme of each of these two periods:O.T. – The Law (an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth)N.T. – Grace and truth (loving forgiveness)John 1:14,17 (LB) And _ Christ _ became a human being and lived here on earth among us and _ was full of loving forgiveness and truth . … 17 _For Moses gave us only _ the Law with its rigid demands and merciless justice, _ while _ Jesus Christ brought us loving forgiveness as well. _If we claim "Christian home status" for our homes, we have to be like Christ who was full of grace & loving forgiveness and truthAny home that is operated on the basis of loving forgiveness and truth will be a happy homeAny home that is operated on the basis of "the Law with its rigid demands and merciless justice" will be an unhappy homeColossians 1:27 (NET) God wanted to make known to them the glorious riches of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is _ Christ in you _, the hope of glory.Once we are born again, Christ is in us, and we have the grace and ability to operate like Christ did, with loving forgiveness.Matthew 5:38–39 (NKJV) You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' _ 39 _ But I tell you _ _not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.The message here is: Do not retaliate!Retaliation is based on a "merciless justice" premise and belongs to the pre-Christ eraIn the N.T., the emphasis has moved from judging others to judging ourselvesLuke 6:37 (NLT)_ Do not judge others , and you will not be judged._ _ Do not condemn others , or it will all come back against you . Forgive others , and you will be forgiven._1 Corinthians 11:31 (NKJV)For if we would _ judge ourselves _, we would not be judged.Colossians 4:6 (NKJV) _ Let your speech always be with grace _, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.Do not operate out of resentment, rejection or unforgiveness.The Biblical FamilyOur aim as Christian families is not to be "modern families", but "biblical families".Sometimes people think that any version or any variation of family philosophy will do … but in reality, only Bible Methods can produce Bible Results.To claim "Biblical Family Status" for our families, we need to build and pattern our families after the truth of God's Word.Jesus came to bring not only grace, but also truth (John 1:17)Grace along will not produce a biblical familyWe need both "Grace" and "Truth" to build a Biblical FamilyThe Biblical HusbandEphesians 5:25 (NKJV)Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.Colossians 3:19 (NLT)Husbands, love your wives and never treat them harshly.The biblical husband is a praying manHe lives by the Word of God and models a godly lifestyle to his familyHe is a servant leader who lays down his life for his wife & his familyHe honours his wife as a co-heir of the grace of life so that His prayers aren't hinderedHe seeks God's will for his life and for his familyHe fosters the presence of God in his home1 Chronicles 13:14 (NET) The ark of God remained in Obed-Edom's house for three months; _ the Lord blessed Obed-Edom's family and everything that belonged to him. _The ark of God primarily represents the presence of God. Specifically, it contained:Two tablets with the 10 Commandments (the Word of God) Deut.10:2A pot of manna (supernatural sustenance ) Deut. 8:3Aaron's rod that budded (confirming Aarons priesthood & leadership)The Biblical WifeEphesians 5:22–24 (NKJV)Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. _ 23 For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body._ _ 24 Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything._The sequence of submission to God & His ordained authority is as follows:Christ submits to Father God (1 Corinthians 15:24,28)The church submits to Christ (Ephesians 5:24)The husband submits to Christ (Ephesians 5:25)The wife submits to her husband & to Christ (Ephesians 5:22–24)The children submit to their father and mother (Colossians 3:20)The more the whole family is submitted to God and His ordained authority structure, the happier and fulfilled each member of the family will be.Biblical ChildrenColossians 3:20 (NKJV)Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord.God sets the Solitary in FamiliesOutline: https://bit.ly/3kQXMS2Psalm 68:6 (NKJV)_ God sets the solitary in families ; He brings out those who are bound into prosperity …_Many people are quite solitary (alone) as far as their natural family is concerned.In that case, their church family becomes more than just a spiritual family – the church becomes like an adopted family to them so they can experience the blessing of having fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters etc.Mark 10:29–30 (NKJV)So Jesus answered and said, "Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My sake and the gospel's, _ 30 _ who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time—houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children _ _and lands, with persecutions—and in the age to come, eternal life.

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.

When the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions were implemented in March 2020, in Australia, I asked God what He wanted me to do during this time. He simply said, 'Tend to your garden." I knew He meant literally, as our garden was long overdue some TLC. But I also knew He was speaking metaphorically about areas in my life, family relationships and other activities I'm involved in. What has God been saying to you during COVID-19? Tending the literal garden For me, tending to the literal garden wasn't going to be a complex activity. It just involved a plan - with achievable goals, time, a little money, and sunshine. Over the past six weeks we have transformed our front path, planting seeds to create a border of white cottage flowers. What a joy it has been each morning to walk out the front door and see the growth. Another section of the garden has been weeded and had turf laid. In the midst of those improvements a stunning white Camellia tree has bloomed, dropping petals white as snow on the newly laid turf. So beautiful. Our youngest daughter has planted seeds to create flower borders around two trees. The shoots are starting to come through now. Doing this gardening together with her is part of the other 'tend to your garden' that God was speaking to me about. Tending to relationships Through our journey of having four children and one with cancer who obviously required more attention, understanding the concept of love languages has been essential. They have helped immensely in working to restore relationships with our other children. For more information on love languages, see 'The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell.' Over the years we had purposefully implemented routines and strategies to increase the frequency that we 'spoke' each child's love language. Strategies that God used to bring healing into relationships. For example, for those with a love language of Quality Time, we identified specific times during the weekly schedule. They often happened in the car on the way to sporting activities. So guess what happened when the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions came in? Sport stopped, and along with it those precious Quality Time moments. The flow on-effect? Increased tension and frustration as the love tanks were suddenly running very low! How do we do this now? There was frustration for me as well as the children. I was so angry with the enemy for attempting to destroy what God had restored. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10 NKJV However, I am grateful for all God has taught me over the years about the enemy's attempts to steal, kill and destroy. A couple of key scriptures that help me in these times of frustration - although sometimes only after I have loudly expressed my frustration! .... 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. 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. Ephesians 6:12-13 NKJV So he answered and said to me: “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ Says the Lord of hosts. Zechariah 4:6 NKJV God says, 'Do it this way.' So with the help of the Holy Spirit we have created new ways of 'speaking' each child's love language in this COVID-19 season and possibly beyond. And yes, for one child, that does include time in the garden. Praise God. He always has a plan and it is good. Another area that I knew God was referring to with the 'Tend to your garden' response was a ministry group I am involved with. In January this year God spoke to me about doing something new with the group. I was excited about what He had said, but did not know how to implement it. Sure I had ideas, but none of them seemed to be feasible, so I did nothing. Yesterday I was outside at sunrise preparing the ground for laying the turf before the forecasted rain came, when God spoke to me about that new thing. He said something like, 'Now is the time to do that, and do it this way.' The strategy was brillant, masterful! Thank you God. In January, how could I have known that COVID-19 would impact our country in this way? And that there would be a flow-on affect impacting the way our group operated? How could I have known that this would be the perfect time to implement what God had spoken to me about? The answer to all these questions is, 'I couldn't have known.' Only God knew. For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. 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 Make space to hear what God wants to say So why am I sharing these stories? Because I really believe God has at least one thing, probably more, He wants to say to each of us during this time. And His words to us, as always, are critical for our future. They give us purpose and the strategies on how to achieve that purpose. How are you going to make space in your day to hear what God wants to say to you? For some more thoughts on hearing from God please visit these posts at https://wendyrobinson.com.au God hears our heart's cry God's timing and our patience God is listening - Day 22 - Drawing Closer to God devotion

  Many believe that “God is in Control” is the Gospel truth. “Brother Rodriguez, that is what the Bible says!” Is it? If it is, then we are stuck with it. Maybe we should look at that idea a little closer before coming to a conclusion. Following is a verse interpreted to uphold the theology that God ultimately controls all leaders in human government. The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord like channels of water; he turns it wherever he wants (Proverbs 21:1 NET). Many assume that verse means that all rulers are like puppets on a string, and God is the master puppeteer. That was never a Biblical view but one that originated in the beliefs about mythical gods and their treatment of mankind. Among these mythical gods, humans were like pawns in a game of otherworldly chess played by them. The gods set human fate according to their will. That same thinking infiltrated Christianity beginning in the second century. We could go into a lengthy discussion of how Greek pagan thought supplanted Jewish Messianic Biblical thought of the 1st century church in Jerusalem. I will spare you the details, but ideas prevalent in paganism about their mythological gods and their relationship with humanity had a deep impact on Christian Biblical interpretation as the church moved further west into pagan territory. Historically, the church to the west by the 3rd and 4th century would have been almost unrecognizable to Jesus, the apostles, and the churches that sprang up among the Jewish believers around Jerusalem and its vicinity. Anybody that has done research into the history of the church between the 1st and 4th century knows this to be true. (1) The idea that God is like a master puppeteer or a divine chess master in control of all human actions, and that all humans must bow to His will, was a part of heathen or pagan mythology. Pagan gods could force their will upon humans at their every whim. It did not matter if their will was immoral or unrighteous. Human beings had no choice in their fate. Whatever the gods willed was to be done even by unwilling humanity. That posited idea takes away from human beings all powers of decision and makes them automatons that are forcibly subject to the divine will. If God could do that with kings and government leaders, or any human being for that matter, why not do that with the unsaved on planet earth? Why not force everyone to receive Jesus as Savior and Lord, and mandate that everyone to go to heaven? We could start the Millennium tomorrow and get on with eternity if that were the case! That is not the case because human beings can choose their eternal destiny, and they have a choice in this life to serve or disobey God. The right to choose From the beginning, God gave people the right to choose, and it has never been rescinded. He commanded Adam and Eve not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, and that IF they did eat of the forbidden tree, then they would die (Genesis 2:17). God gave them a choice, but they chose the wrong thing and suffered the consequences. It was not God’s plan that they chose evil, but they did, and God respected their choice. If God was sovereign as people think, as in full control of all circumstances, why not rebuke the devil and stop sin in the garden? Why not stop the many millennia of the rule of darkness that perverted His creation and brought it a devastating curse? Many think that God created man to fail and sin. They believe that God in His sovereignty had some purpose in all this damnation and planetary misery. Really? Step back from religion and theology and hear that nonsense for what it is. “Sovereignty” and “God is in control” as taught in much of Christendom is a perverted and twisted traditional religious idea that makes God into an indiscriminate murderer and destroyer that somehow favors evils to strike mankind for some mysterious purposes. Those ideas make human beings into robotic servants subject to the “control” of the “programmer” (God). Let us get specific. Those that think that because of God’s sovereignty, He is control of all human actions, what then do you do with Hitler, Stalin, Mao, ISIS, and all the evil rulers, empires, and terrorist organizations that have plagued the planet? God would have to be worse than all of them if this human cesspool of evil and bondage were of His design and under His total control. The idea is so ludicrous and preposterous that only in churches will people believe that nonsense and utter stupidity. I do not have any nice words to describe the foolishness of the “God is in control of everything” crowd. God sent Jesus. Those that trust and follow Him (believe) will be saved, and those that do not will be damned (John 3:15-18, 36; 12:48; Mark 16:16, etc.). The choice between life and death, blessing or curses, love and hatred, and obedience or disobedience has always been among men. God has never taken it away, and never will! I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live (Deuteronomy 30:19 NKJV- See also Jeremiah 21:8 and ff., and Amos 5:14) Who has the choice to make? God? God is in control of whether we have life or death, blessing or cursing? No, human beings must choose. What is the problem? Many want it to be God's choice, but God has left it up to us as to what we choose. He does tell us to choose life because He wants us to live, but the ultimate choice is left to us as long as we are on the earth. Granted, once you leave your body, your final fate is set. Eternal life to those that know Jesus and serve God, and eternal damnation for those that rejected the Lord and doing what was right according to His Word. (See Romans 1:16-32 through 2:1-11 for Paul's teaching on the subject.)  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. (Joshua 24:15 NKJV) God does not choose for you whom you will serve? The choice is left up to YOU and ME! I have chosen the way of truth; Your judgments I have laid before me. (Psalms 119:30 NKJV) The Psalmist said he chose the way of truth. God did not choose it for him.  Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the Lord. (Proverbs 1:29 NKJV) Who makes the choice here? The person rejecting the knowledge (knowing and doing the Word) of the Lord. Choosing to fear (honor and respect) the Lord is in human hands. It is not in God's hands. It's our choice of whether we revere the Lord or not.  Curds and honey He shall eat, that He may know to refuse the evil and choose the good. For before the Child shall know to refuse the evil and choose the good, the land that you dread will be forsaken by both her kings. (Isaiah 7:15 NKJV) For fun, think about it. Who chose for you that you should eat corn flakes or eggs and biscuits this morning? Was it God? No, you chose what to eat. He calls upon us to fast at times, but it is our choice whether to obey or disobey His instruction. In the same way, we choose between good and evil. God desires we reject the evil and choose the good, but whether we do or not is in our hands.  No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. (Matthew 6:24 NKJV) Whom we will serve is in our hands. God does not make that choice for us.  So that you can decide what is best, and thus be sincere and blameless for the day of Christ. (Philippians 1:10 NET). You decide what is best! Yes, we follow the leading of the Lord and what His Word says to make the right choices, but no one can take away your right to choose. Even martyrs chose Jesus and refused to deny their faith regardless of the deadly end results.  Here is one more portion of Scripture that blows wrong theology about the life and death of a believer completely out the door.  But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. 23 For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. 24 Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you. 25 And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith. (Philippians 1:22-25 NKJV) What do you think of that? Do you mean to tell me that Paul had a choice in the matter whether to die and be with the Lord or to stay in the body because the Philippians needed to get more from his ministry? Do mean to tell me we can have a choice? YES! We can do things to extend our days upon the earth. We can also do things to cut our days short upon the earth. Anyone that has read the first three chapters of the book of Proverbs should know that. See Proverbs 1:32-33; 2:20-22; 3:1-2, 7-8, 13-18, and I dare anyone to refute the clear teaching of the Scripture! A part of God's divine protection is that we be satisfied with a long life (Psalms 91:16). Who or what do you believe? Do you believe God or the traditional idiocy of many sectors of Christendom that think all matters of life and death are in God's hands? The Scriptures above prove the massive errors believed in these areas of choice, even in the areas of life and death.   How about this often half-quoted verse? These verses tell us one way to extend our days upon the earth. “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise: 3 “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.” (Ephesians 6:2, 3; Paul is quoting from Exodus 20:12 -NKJV) Don't quote the first part without also quoting the second part about living long on the earth. Here is another portion of Scripture that tells us how we can extend our life upon the earth. The apostle Peter quoted it.  10 It is written in the psalms, If you love life and want to live a good, long time, then be careful what you say. Don’t tell lies or spread gossip or talk about improper things. 11 Walk away from the evil things in the world—just leave them behind, and do what is right, and always seek peace and pursue it. 12 For the Lord watches over the righteous, and His ears are attuned to their prayers. But His face is set against His enemies; He will punish evildoers. (1Peter 3:10-12 -The Voice translation- a quotation from Psalms 34:12-16) Let’s get our theology straight! The ONLY way to straighten up our ideas is by looking at Scripture after Scripture like we are doing here, but there are many more that prove the point.  Again, and for the record, it is an impossibility to trust and obey the Lord or to distrust and disobey Him unless you have a choice, a right to decide. Believing or unbelief is a human choice. God will not force “faith” (faithfulness, trust, obedience) on you any more than He will force unbelief on you. Does God control all government leaders? “But isn’t the obvious meaning of Proverbs 21:1 that, because of His sovereignty, He can control everyone whenever He wishes?” No, it does not mean that at all once you take into consideration Hosea 8:4 and Nehemiah 9:17 and a truckload of other verses! They enthroned kings without my consent! They appointed princes without my approval (Hosea 8:4a NET)! They refused to obey and did not recall your miracles that you had performed among them. Instead, they rebelled and appointed a leader to return to their bondage in Egypt (Nehemiah 9:17a NKJV). Some kings and princes (leaders of some country) disobeyed God and refused to do what He said. Have you read the extensive list of kings that disobeyed God in the Old Testament? Most of the kings of Israel and Judah disobeyed and rebelled against the Lord. Most of these rebellious kings usually died off quickly and were replaced by another that would do worse. There is no way to read First and Second Chronicles and be oblivious to the fact that most kings did not have their hearts in the hand of the Lord. If God could have turned any of the hearts of these kings whenever He wanted, why didn’t He turn any of the hearts of the evil kings? Obviously, something is wrong with the way we have understood Proverbs 21:1 and many other verses that would seem at first glance to imply that “God is in control” of all human affairs and events. If God is completely in control of human events, then how do we account for the death and destruction flooding this planet over millennia? How can we say God is in control of everything with a straight face and see the evil at work on this planet? Is God in control when women are raped, children are sold into slavery, young women are forced to be sex slaves, and Islamic terrorist organizations murder, rape, maim, behead, and knife to death men, women, and children? Only idiotic, ignoramus, anti-Biblical, religious, traditional BUNK could blind a person to believe that God is in control of all that bad stuff. He is not! I know I am repeating myself, and maybe belaboring the point though using different words, but this subject of sovereignty and “God’s control” are too important to give a lightweight answer. In the sense that God’s prophetic words concerning our planet will happen, yes, He is in control of that! The promised return of Jesus to rule and reign on the earth will occur no matter what anybody decides or chooses against it. The Book of Revelation will happen regardless of who is in government and who is not! Some events will transpire no matter what anybody believes or does because God said it, and His Word will accomplish what He wants (Isaiah 55:11). He is sovereign and in control where these events are concerned, but He is not ruling over the human will when people decide to disobey and rebel against Him and follow the devil. As far as humanity and their right to choose, God is not in control of their wrong choices or their corrupt activities. Jesus said that the thief is the one that comes to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). To believe that evil comes because God is in control means that you believe that God is the thief! Yes, God does allow a lot of evil stuff because many human beings have rejected Him, embraced the darkness and false religions, and they are in Satan’s territory as the “destroyer.” People choose darkness, and they reap destruction and death. The wages of sin are still death (Romans 6:23). When people choose evil and disobedience against God and His holy commandments, He turns them over to their enemies. As one example among many, read Judges 2:7-23. This truth is taught excessively in the Bible from cover to cover! There were kings and princes ordained by people that were never in God’s plan. They were NOT God's will! People voted them in” without God approval. We have some kings in Scripture that lived during a time in history where God had His Word on the line concerning His people. Sometimes God put a “decision” in their hearts to do something in line with His will and they obeyed. Other times, judgment came against some of them until they obeyed. He can do that whenever necessary! One prominent example was Nebuchadnezzar. He disobeyed the Lord and was severely judged to wander the earth for seven years with the mind of an animal. When He recognized God and was willing to obey Him, the kingdom was restored to him, and he was reinstated as King of Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar was a part of a greater plan that had to do with God’s people. Because of their sin, God turned over the nation of Israel to Nebuchadnezzar. (See the book of Jeremiah.) He took thousands into captivity, and they were to remain in that land for a minimum of seventy years. The prophet Jeremiah spoke the Word of the Lord concerning Nebuchadnezzar, Babylon, and the exile of the sons of Israel. There was a divine Word in place, and events had to line up to fulfill the Word of the Lord. Nebuchadnezzar was a key player in these developments. Pharaoh continued to oppose the Word of the Lord that Moses proclaimed concerning the release of Israel from Egyptian bondage. He hardened his heart and God agreed, in turn, allowing the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart. Through ten judgments, Pharaoh complied with the Word of the Lord. Again, a Word was spoken to Abraham and his descendants, and it was necessary for the Lord to bring it to pass (Genesis 15:13, 14). There are occasions like those, but those are not the usual succession of events in the earth. Kings and all government leaders have a choice to make whether they will serve the Lord, and whether they will be a force for good or evil. If Proverbs 21:1 were taken to refer to kings in the same predicament as Pharaoh and Nebuchadnezzar, I could agree on one level. However, this verse makes no mention of supernatural events changing the heart of a king. Supernatural events could be what are necessary to turn the heart and force a leader to obey the Lord. Did it happen often? No. It seems to have been relegated to special events surrounding the deliverance of His people. Other than at those times, nothing happened except the decisions of the inividual, either for good or for evil.  When the Lord started showing me that the Scripture had much to say on this subject of good or evil human government, this verse in Proverbs 21:1 stared back into my face. At face value, one could hardly help giving it the standard interpretation of “God makes kings obey His will whether they want to or not because God is in control of their hearts.” Something was wrong with that interpretation when I compared this verse with other verses on the same subject. Thank God that the entrance of His Word brings LIGHT. (Psalms 119:130 NKJV) Stick to the Word and light will come regardless of how ignorant (simple) we are.  The king in Proverbs 21:1 First, who is the king in Proverbs 21:1? If we can get that question answered, then we can start to unravel this verse in our thinking. Was Solomon speaking of a specific king, or was his statement a reference to all world leaders? People want to make this verse applicable to all kings, presidents, and prime ministers. I believe that is a mistake. Who was this king mentioned by Solomon? I am convinced Solomon was speaking of himself as the king whose heart was in the hand of the Lord. Solomon gave his heart over to the Lord as a young man. He asked God to give him a wise and discerning heart so he could judge the people of Israel in righteousness. God granted his request in a powerful way. “Therefore, give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?” The speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. Then God said to him: “…see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you” (See 1 Kings 3:9-12 NKJV abbreviated). Solomon’s heart was in the hand of the Lord as the channels of water because he submitted his heart to the Lord and received a wise and discerning heart from Him. The phrase “heart in the hand of the Lord” speaks of someone who submits his or her life to God to do His will and carry out His plan. Though Solomon deviated from the Lord later in life, for many years, he served the Lord and did His will. Solomon’s heart (life) was in the hands of the Lord, and God could lead him as He wanted. Often Proverbs gives us “stand-alone” pithy sayings that were spoken in the wisdom of God. Other times we see a few verses discussing the same subject before the subject matter changes. Sometimes certain subjects are grouped together. Proverbs 21:1 has been pulled from its context. It is not referring to a wicked king’s heart as being in the hands of the Lord. This verse speaks of a righteous king as the one whose heart in the hand of the Lord. Let me give you a few verses before and after Proverbs 21:1 to put it in context. Proverbs Chapter 20 - A king who sits on the throne of judgment scatters all evil with his eyes. V.8- A wise king sifts out the wicked and brings the threshing wheel over them. V. 26- The spirit of a man is the lamp of the Lord, Searching all the inner depths of his heart. V. 27- Mercy and truth preserve the king, and by lovingkindness he upholds his throne. The glory of young men is their strength, and the splendor of old men is their gray head. Blows that hurt cleanse away evil, as do stripes the inner depths of the heart. V. 28-30 Proverbs Chapter 21- The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes. V.1- Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the hearts. V.2- To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice. V.3 Again, Solomon's subject king in Proverbs 21:1 is a righteous king. Only a righteous king can have his heart in the hand of the Lord. Unrighteous kings had hearts that were far from the Lord. The exceptions to that are kings that did not know God, but they were willing to obey the Lord in whatever He wanted for His people. Good examples are Cyrus and Artaxerxes (Ezra 1 and Nehemiah 2). Look at some of these references in connection with the preceding statements: Ezra 6:22, 1 Kings 11:2-9, 15:3, 2 Kings 10:31, see 2 Chron. 6:38, 12:14, 15:12-15, 19:9, 26:16, 32:25, 26, 34:27, 31, 36:13. NOTES: (1) If you want a book that explores these truths in much more detail with references for further study, I suggest  you read the book by Marvin Wilson: Our Father Abraham: Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith. You can get it from christianbook.com  and other booksellers. If you want to delve even deeper in historical truth, get the scholarly and classic study published originally in 1960, Hebrew Thought Compared With Greek, by Thorlief Boman. It is very informative at 208 pages plus the bibliography, but I warn you, drink coffee before you read it, or you may snooze. Maybe it was just me when I read it for my university studies back many moons ago. Get it on Amazon.  I trust that this article has helped you understand a controversial subject. Be blessed in your study of the Word with me in the following podcast: Repentance Part 8!

WHERE IS GOD? MAKING SENSE OF FAITH DURING A PANDEMIC   DOES GOD CONSPIRE WITH EVIL? What about God’s wrath, judgment, angels of death, etc.?   During times of crisis ALL of humanity is faced with “God” questions. Where is God in this pandemic? Did God cause the novel coronavirus? Is God being passive-aggressive to allow it to happen? If God is loving WHY doesn’t He intervene? Is the pandemic an act of God’s judgment? Is there anything humans/believers can do? Can we expect special protection during these times? Will prayer motivate God? What does God feel towards human suffering?  All of these questions often hang with no more resolution, stopping at the question marks. During this amazing series we will look at philosophical and theological ideas that help us make sense of God, returning us to wholehearted intimacy with God, ourselves and those around us. Join us as we explore the peace of God in times of crisis. ____________________ ARE GOD’S PROMISES RELIABLE? 2 CORINTHIANS 1:20 KJV For all the PROMISES of God in CHRIST [are] YEA, and in him AMEN, unto the glory of God by us. PSALM 33:18-20 KJV Behold, the eye of the LORD [is] upon them… that hope in his MERCY; 19 … to keep them alive in FAMINE. 20 …he [is] our HELP and our SHIELD. EXODUS 23:25 NKJV And I will take SICKNESS AWAY from the MIDST of you. PSALM 91:10-11, 14-16 NKJV NO EVIL shall befall you, nor shall any PLAGUE come NEAR YOUR DWELLING; 11 For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. ... 15 I [will be] with him in TROUBLE; I will DELIVER HIM and honor him. 16 With LONG LIFE I will satisfy him, and show him My SALVATION." ____________________ WHERE IS GOD? MAKING SENSE OF FAITH DURING A PANDEMIC   BUT WHAT ABOUT… ?????????? ____________________ FAITH ALWAYS STOPS AT THE ??????? ____________________ INTERPRETING GOD - DIFFICULT TEXTS: DEUTERONOMY 29:20 NKJV THE LORD would not spare the idolater; for then the ANGER of the LORD and His JEALOUSY would BURN against that man, and EVERY CURSE that is written in this book would settle on him, and THE LORD would BLOT OUT HIS NAME from under heaven. PSALM 78:49 NKJV [God said about the Exodus] He cast on them the FIERCENESS of His ANGER, WRATH, INDIGNATION… ROMANS 9:22-23 NKJV [What] if God, wanting to show [His] WRATH and to make His power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of WRATH PREPARED FOR DESTRUCTION, 23 and that He might make known the riches of His glory on the VESSELS of MERCY, which He had prepared beforehand for glory… REVELATION 16:1 NKJV Then I heard a loud voice from the temple saying to the seven angels, "Go and POUR OUT the BOWLS OF THE WRATH OF GOD on the earth.” PSALM 5:5-6 NLT Therefore, the proud may not stand in your presence, for you HATE ALL WHO DO EVIL. 6 … THE LORD DETESTS murderers and deceivers. MATTHEW 10:14-15 NKJV [Jesus said] 14 "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. 15 "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! ____________________ INTERPRETING GOD - DIFFICULT TEXTS: God’s Anger, Wrath and Indignation Jealousy Hate Judgment of God ____________________ INTERPRETING GOD - DIFFICULT TEXTS: Noah’s Flood Sodom and Gomorrah Ananias and Sapphira Paul Cursing a Sorcerer with Blindness Angels of Destruction Annihilation by Conquest Final Judgments and Wrath of Revelation Hell ____________________ MISTAKES WE MAKE WITH BIBLE DIFFICULTIES  Assuming that the unexplained is not explainable Presuming the Bible guilty until proven innocent Confusing our fallible interpretations with God’s infallible revelation Failing to understand the context of the passage Basing doctrine/teaching on an obscure passage Forgetting the Bible is a human book with human characteristics Neglecting that the Bible uses different literary devices (figures of speech) ____________________ DOES GOD… RAGE HATE JEALOUSY LIKE HUMANS ?????????? ____________________ DOES GOD… CREATE DO CONSPIRE WITH EVIL ?????????? ____________________ WHAT DOES EVIL LOOK LIKE? ANYTHING THAT LACKS PURE GOODNESS! Plagues (Viruses) Physical Weakness Infertility Accidents Death Financial Need Famines Oppressive Labor Hating Work/Labor Sexual Assault Harassment No Justice Fear For Safety Hard Heartedness Seared Conscience Mental Disorders Anxiety Disorders Depression Fear & Confusion Faulty Cognition Addictions Divorce Broken Families Child Abductions Kidnappings Perpetration Shame & Guilt Embarrassment Humiliation Regrets Hiding & Inferiority Isolation Rejection Victimization Exploitation Oppression Cynicism “Life Is Hard” Etc. ____________________ GOD IS ALL GOOD 1 JOHN 4:8 NKJV He who does not love does not know God, for GOD IS LOVE. GOD IS ALL PURE PSALM 99:9 NKJV Exalt the LORD our God, And worship at His holy hill; For the LORD our GOD [IS] HOLY. ____________________ WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT GOD WILL DEFINE EVERYTHING ELSE ABOUT YOU! ____________________ INTERPRETING GOD – HOW?  BEGIN WITH WHAT “IT” IS NOT! BECOME CURIOUS IN EXPLORATION! ____________________ HOW TO INTERPRET GOD – WEEK 1 COMPARE WITH JESUS OVERLAY REDEMPTION AGAINST EVIL REMEMBER PERMISSIVE VERBS INTEGRATE CREATION’S PROCESS LAWS ACTIVATE AUTHORITY THROUGH REDEMPTION ____________________ JUSTICE DOES NOT CONSPIRE WITH EVIL God’s justice is not a spin for God to conspire with evil. THE ISSUE IS HOW JUSTICE OR EVIL ACTUALLY HAPPENS! ____________________ - GOD’S EMOTIONS - DOES GOD… RAGE HATE JEALOUSY LIKE HUMANS ?????????? ____________________ INTERPRETING GOD – BELIEVERS ROMANS 5:8-9 NKJV But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be SAVED FROM WRATH through Him. 1 THESSALONIANS 1:10; 5:9 NKJV … [even] Jesus who DELIVERS US FROM THE WRATH to come…. 5:9 For GOD DID NOT APPOINT US TO WRATH, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ… EPHESIANS 2:2-5 NKJV … the sons of disobedience, 3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of WRATH, just as the others. 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), ____________________ - GOD’S EMOTIONS -  GOD’S RAGE HATE JEALUOSY IS ALWAYS ABOUT JUSTICE, NOT RETALIATION! ____________________ INTERPRETING GOD – GOD’S JUSTICE  PASSIVE JUDGMENT ACTIVE JUDGMENT LEGAL SEPARATION (A MULTIDIMENSIONAL UNIVERSE) COMMISSIONED ENFORCEMENT ____________________ INTERPRETING GOD – GOD’S PATTERN  GOD WARNS IN ADVANCE (MERCY) GOD GIVES GRACE TO AVOID IMPENDING SUFFERING ALL WHO REPENT/CHANGE GIVEN A WAY TO ESCAPE SOMEONE IS ALMOST ALWAYS “SAVED” OUT OF SUFFERING JUDGMENTS MAKE PUBLIC AWARENESS ____________________ MATTHEW 16:19 NCV [Jesus said] I will give you the KEYS of the kingdom of heaven; the things YOU DON’T ALLOW on earth will be the things that God does not allow, and the things YOU ALLOW on earth will be the things that God allows. ____________________ GOD’S PROMISES PSALM 33:18-20 KJV Behold, the eye of the LORD [is] upon them… that hope in his MERCY; 19 … to keep them alive in FAMINE. 20 …he [is] our HELP and our SHIELD. EXODUS 23:25 NKJV And I will take SICKNESS AWAY from the MIDST of you. PSALM 91:10-11, 14-16 NKJV NO EVIL shall befall you, nor shall any PLAGUE come NEAR YOUR DWELLING; 11 For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. ... 15 I [will be] with him in TROUBLE; I will DELIVER HIM and honor him. 16 With LONG LIFE I will satisfy him, and show him My SALVATION." ____________________ ACTIVATE GOD’S PROMISES 2 CORINTHIANS 4:13 NKJV And since we have the same SPIRIT OF FAITH, according to what is written, "I believed and therefore I spoke," WE ALSO BELIEVE AND THEREFORE SPEAK… JAMES 2:18, 26 NKJV … show me your faith without your works (activations), and I will show you my FAITH by MY WORKS (ACTIVATIONS)… 26 …FAITH without WORKS (ACTIVATIONS) is DEAD also.   _________________________________________________________________ DECLARATIONS FACING PRESSURE I am of God and have overcome him (satan). For greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world. (I John 4:4) FACING PRESSURE I am far from oppression and fear does not come near me. (Isaiah 54:14) FACING PRESSURE No weapon formed against me will prosper, for my righteousness is of the Lord. But whatever I do will prosper for I’m like a tree that’s planted by the rivers of water (Isaiah 54;17; Psalm 1:3) PEACE The peace of God which passes all understanding keeps my heart and my mind through Christ Jesus. And things which are good, and pure, and perfect, and lovely, and of good report, I think on these things. (Philippians 4:7-8) REACH POTENTIAL The Lord will perfect that which concerns me. (Psalm 138:8) GAINING WISDOM I am a new creation in Christ, I am His workmanship created in Christ Jesus. Therefore I have the mind of Christ and the wisdom of God is formed within me. (II Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10; I Corinthians 2:16) FREEDOM/GUILT And I, having received the gift of righteousness do reign as a king in life by Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:17)  FREEDOM DARK I am delivered from the power of darkness and I am translated into the kingdom of His dear Son. (Colossians 1:13) REDEEMED KIDS Great is the peace of my children for they are taught of the Lord. (Isaiah 54:13)  PROTECTION No evil will befall me neither shall any plague come near my dwelling. For the Lord has given His angels charge over me and they keep me in all my ways, and in my pathway is life and there is no death. (Psalm 91:10-11; Proverbs 12:28) SECURE DECISIONS I do follow the good shepherd and I know His voice and the voice of a stranger I will not follow. (John 10:4-5) SECURE DECISIONS The Lord enlarges my steps and establishes my thoughts. Therefore I will make healthy Holy Spirit-led decisions. (Psalm 18:36; Proverbs 16:3)  RESTORATION The Lord redeems my life from destruction and crowns me with tender mercies. The Lord satisfies my mouth with good things. My steps are ordered by the Lord. Even if I were to fall down, He upholds me with his hand. (Ps 103:4; Ps 37:23-24) SUCCESS AND PROSPERITY The Lord makes my way prosperous and gives me good success. Jesus has redeemed me from the curse of sin and given me the grace (power in human weakness) to have unlimited available resources. (Joshua 1:8; Gal 3:13; 2 Cor 8:7) GOD’S FAVOR The Lord has given me favor with God and man. I execute authority over my calling and future. The free favors of God are profusely abounding in my life. I am at the right place at the right time with the right people. People of power are stirred and predisposed to give me special advantages and preferential treatment. I reek with, and am crowned with, the abundance of God’s free favors over my life. Incredible things happen to me every day that other people don’t have happen in a lifetime. (Pr 3:4; Luke 4:19; Pr 8:5) DECLARATIONS DOWNLOAD Copy this url and paste in your favorite browser to download https://app.box.com/v/declare

Waiting is not my strong suit. How about you- This COVID-19 crisis has many of us asking how long these -distancing- measures will be required of us. Even a cursory glance at Scripture makes clear that God's providence so often requires His people to wait for His best.-Sometimes the wait is a long one. -...They who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength...- Isaiah 40-31 -NKJV- God never wastes the time we spend in His waiting room... though His impatient children do.

By Tom Shanklin "And He Himself gave some [to be] apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ," (Ephesians 4:11-12 NKJV) God gave evangelists as a gift to the Church. In this message we look at God’s awesome plan for the ministry of the evangelist, and his or her relationship with other ministers and with the body of Christ. The evangelist's ministry is vital to the plan of God in this hour. We must all learn how to cooperate with with the anointing and calling upon our life, whatever it is. And we also must learn how to cooperate with one another so that the Lord’s purposes will be accomplished in the earth. Contact Us>>> Here are some of the other scripture references from this message. 2 Timothy 4:5 1 Corinthians 2:2 Acts 6:1-6 Acts 8:5-40 Acts 21:8-9 Here are some of the characteristics of Philip the evangelist which we discover from these passages of scripture: Philip was a part of a local church. He had a good reputation. He was full of the Holy Spirit. He was full of wisdom. He was willing to serve. He was a goer. He proclaimed the message of Jesus Christ. He had a ministry of signs and wonders. He brought joy to the hearers. He saw that people were baptized. He was willing to work with other ministries. He was wiling to obey and move with God. He was willing to minister to one person as well as to a crowd. He knew the Word of God. He called people to a decision. He had a family and a normal home life. (Translation by Maria Juha) Tom preaching about thrusting out the laborers in the Czech Republic.

Slow down and breathe! DO NOT lose heart, and DO NOT be afraid!! Never forget your heavenly Father is the same yesterday, today, and forevermore!!!  .. Moreover David said, “The Lord, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” 1 Samuel 17:37 (NKJV) God cares for you, and HE FOREVER LOVES YOU!!!!

Faith-Filled Prayer of Personal Protection Deeply rooted in Scripture   Father, Your word says in Ephesians 2:19 (CJB) “So then, you are no longer foreigners and strangers. On the contrary, you are fellow-citizens with God’s people and members of God’s family.”  I’m thankful to know that, as a Christian, I am legitimately part of your family, and have a standing invitation according to Hebrews 4:16 (NLT) - “So let us come boldly [confidently, unashamedly] to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”   Your word also says that the reason I can “boldly” come to God, no matter how I feel or what I’m facing today, is that Jesus has already qualified me to come to you according to II Corinthians 5:21 (NLT) which says, “For He (that’s You, Father) made Him who knew no sin (that’s Jesus) to be sin for us (that’s me, and anyone else who is born again), that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”   Father, Your word says in Ephesians 1:3 (NLT) - “All praise [belongs] to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has [already] blessed us [His children] with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.” Those blessings are spelled out to me through the promises that You made in Your word, and according to I Corinthians 1:20 (NLT) - “all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.”   Father, based on those scriptures that I have already mentioned, I am coming to you today to receive protection from all that is happening in the world around me, from the Coronavirus, to any/all of the effects that can results from it’s impact.   Your word says in Philippians 4:6 (ESV) - “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Because of this, I refuse to be anxious or worried about anything. Fear and anxiety may come, but I will not let it settle in. Instead, I will bring everything to you in prayer, and make sure that all of my requests are covered with thanksgiving because I believe that You love me, and will keep Your promises to me.   Your word also says in 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV), “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” So I thank You Lord that I do not, and will not, have a spirit of fear, but of power (as in the access to your promises and provision, as well as the God-given” right to access them) and of love (as in, because I have chosen to place my confidence in You, I will maintain a warm, self-less attitude and approach as I walk through this time) and of a sound mind (as in, because my trust is in the Lord, I have the ability to make wise and balanced decisions).    Father, Your word also says in Isaiah 41:10 (GNB) -  “Do not be afraid— I am with you! I am your God—let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you.” So in the name of Jesus, I declare that You are not just God, but you are my God!  You will make me strong, and You will help me. And regardless what happens, You will protect me and save me.   And Your word says in Psalm 46:1–2 (NKJV) - “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.”  Therefore I thank You that You are my refuge and my strength. You are right here next to me, as a very present help in trouble. Even if the whole earth is comes apart at the seams, and is completely removed, and even if every mountain is thrown into the ocean, I refuse to fear because You are right here with me.   Your word also says in Isaiah 54:17 (NKJV) - “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from Me,” Says the Lord.” Father, based on this scripture, I declare in the name of Jesus that nothing (and You mean “nothing”) that tries to hurt me in any way will succeed, and every negative word that is spoken in disagreement with Your promises to me, including those that are spoken to judge or disqualify me - I reject those words, and cast them aside. Such words will not come to pass. This divine protection is part of my inheritance as a servant of the Lord, and my righteousness (my worthiness to experience this protection) comes from You, the final authority, because of what Jesus has done.   Your word also says in Luke 10:19 (NKJV), “Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” So I thank You Lord that nothing (not one single thing) shall in any way, shape, or form hurt me because You have given me the authority to use the name of Jesus to trample on any/every kind of evil spirit that would try to manipulate my thoughts or emotions away from Your word, and over any/all other power that the enemy might try and use. And Your word says in Isaiah 53:5 (NKJV), “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.” So I thank You Lord that because Jesus was wounded to pay for my wrongdoings, bruised to pay for my unhealthy and immoral vices, and endured severe punishment to purchase my peace - I am loved and accepted by You. And, because Jesus was willingly and brutally scourged to provide me with health and healing, I confidently declare that “by His stripes I am healed.”    Father, when I consider all that I’ve already covered, Your word directs my response in Psalm 103:2–3 (NKJV) to - “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases.”  Therefore, I choose to bless You from the depths of my soul, and commit to You that I will not forget all Your benefits, particularly those that I need right now - Confidence that You really have forgiven all of my iniquities, and that You have, and will continue to heal all of my diseases.   And now, Father, based on the faith and confidence that I am placing in Your word, I consider myself an heir of the blessing of Abraham because of all that Jesus Christ, my Savior, provided, and I personalize every promise in the following chapter, receiving it as mine by faith, praying it over myself and those that I love.   According to PSALM 91 (NKJV modified) I declare that, 1 I dwell in the secret place of the Most High and abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust.” 3Surely He shall deliver me from [secret traps] and from [destructive diseases]. 4He shall cover me with His feathers and under His wings I shall take refuge. His truth shall be my shield and [armor]. 5I shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the [attack that happens] by day, 6 nor of the [disease that creeps around] in darkness, nor of the destruction that [wreaks havoc] at noon. 7A thousand may fall at my side, and ten thousand at my right hand; but it shall not come near me. 8 Only with my eyes shall I look and see the reward of the wicked. 9 Because I have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, my dwelling place, 10no evil shall befall me, nor shall any plague come near my dwelling; 11 for He shall give His angels charge over me to keep me in all my ways. 12 In their hands they [will steady me to keep me from stumbling against the rocks on the trail]. 13 [I will  even walk unharmed among the fiercest powers of darkness, trampling every one of them beneath my feet!] 14 Because I have set my love upon the Lord, therefore He will deliver me. He will set me on high because I have known His name. 15 I shall call upon Him and He will answer me. He will be with me in trouble. He will deliver me and honor me. 16 With long life He will satisfy me and show me His salvation.

Faith-Filled Prayer of Personal Protection Deeply rooted in Scripture   Father, Your word says in Ephesians 2:19 (CJB) “So then, you are no longer foreigners and strangers. On the contrary, you are fellow-citizens with God’s people and members of God’s family.”  I’m thankful to know that, as a Christian, I am legitimately part of your family, and have a standing invitation according to Hebrews 4:16 (NLT) - “So let us come boldly [confidently, unashamedly] to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”   Your word also says that the reason I can “boldly” come to God, no matter how I feel or what I’m facing today, is that Jesus has already qualified me to come to you according to II Corinthians 5:21 (NLT) which says, “For He (that’s You, Father) made Him who knew no sin (that’s Jesus) to be sin for us (that’s me, and anyone else who is born again), that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”   Father, Your word says in Ephesians 1:3 (NLT) - “All praise [belongs] to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has [already] blessed us [His children] with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.” Those blessings are spelled out to me through the promises that You made in Your word, and according to I Corinthians 1:20 (NLT) - “all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.”   Father, based on those scriptures that I have already mentioned, I am coming to you today to receive protection from all that is happening in the world around me, from the Coronavirus, to any/all of the effects that can results from it’s impact.   Your word says in Philippians 4:6 (ESV) - “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Because of this, I refuse to be anxious or worried about anything. Fear and anxiety may come, but I will not let it settle in. Instead, I will bring everything to you in prayer, and make sure that all of my requests are covered with thanksgiving because I believe that You love me, and will keep Your promises to me.   Your word also says in 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV), “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” So I thank You Lord that I do not, and will not, have a spirit of fear, but of power (as in the access to your promises and provision, as well as the God-given” right to access them) and of love (as in, because I have chosen to place my confidence in You, I will maintain a warm, self-less attitude and approach as I walk through this time) and of a sound mind (as in, because my trust is in the Lord, I have the ability to make wise and balanced decisions).    Father, Your word also says in Isaiah 41:10 (GNB) -  “Do not be afraid— I am with you! I am your God—let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you.” So in the name of Jesus, I declare that You are not just God, but you are my God!  You will make me strong, and You will help me. And regardless what happens, You will protect me and save me.   And Your word says in Psalm 46:1–2 (NKJV) - “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.”  Therefore I thank You that You are my refuge and my strength. You are right here next to me, as a very present help in trouble. Even if the whole earth is comes apart at the seams, and is completely removed, and even if every mountain is thrown into the ocean, I refuse to fear because You are right here with me.   Your word also says in Isaiah 54:17 (NKJV) - “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from Me,” Says the Lord.” Father, based on this scripture, I declare in the name of Jesus that nothing (and You mean “nothing”) that tries to hurt me in any way will succeed, and every negative word that is spoken in disagreement with Your promises to me, including those that are spoken to judge or disqualify me - I reject those words, and cast them aside. Such words will not come to pass. This divine protection is part of my inheritance as a servant of the Lord, and my righteousness (my worthiness to experience this protection) comes from You, the final authority, because of what Jesus has done.   Your word also says in Luke 10:19 (NKJV), “Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” So I thank You Lord that nothing (not one single thing) shall in any way, shape, or form hurt me because You have given me the authority to use the name of Jesus to trample on any/every kind of evil spirit that would try to manipulate my thoughts or emotions away from Your word, and over any/all other power that the enemy might try and use. And Your word says in Isaiah 53:5 (NKJV), “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.” So I thank You Lord that because Jesus was wounded to pay for my wrongdoings, bruised to pay for my unhealthy and immoral vices, and endured severe punishment to purchase my peace - I am loved and accepted by You. And, because Jesus was willingly and brutally scourged to provide me with health and healing, I confidently declare that “by His stripes I am healed.”    Father, when I consider all that I’ve already covered, Your word directs my response in Psalm 103:2–3 (NKJV) to - “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases.”  Therefore, I choose to bless You from the depths of my soul, and commit to You that I will not forget all Your benefits, particularly those that I need right now - Confidence that You really have forgiven all of my iniquities, and that You have, and will continue to heal all of my diseases.   And now, Father, based on the faith and confidence that I am placing in Your word, I consider myself an heir of the blessing of Abraham because of all that Jesus Christ, my Savior, provided, and I personalize every promise in the following chapter, receiving it as mine by faith, praying it over myself and those that I love.   According to PSALM 91 (NKJV modified) I declare that, 1 I dwell in the secret place of the Most High and abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust.” 3Surely He shall deliver me from [secret traps] and from [destructive diseases]. 4He shall cover me with His feathers and under His wings I shall take refuge. His truth shall be my shield and [armor]. 5I shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the [attack that happens] by day, 6 nor of the [disease that creeps around] in darkness, nor of the destruction that [wreaks havoc] at noon. 7A thousand may fall at my side, and ten thousand at my right hand; but it shall not come near me. 8 Only with my eyes shall I look and see the reward of the wicked. 9 Because I have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, my dwelling place, 10no evil shall befall me, nor shall any plague come near my dwelling; 11 for He shall give His angels charge over me to keep me in all my ways. 12 In their hands they [will steady me to keep me from stumbling against the rocks on the trail]. 13 [I will  even walk unharmed among the fiercest powers of darkness, trampling every one of them beneath my feet!] 14 Because I have set my love upon the Lord, therefore He will deliver me. He will set me on high because I have known His name. 15 I shall call upon Him and He will answer me. He will be with me in trouble. He will deliver me and honor me. 16 With long life He will satisfy me and show me His salvation.  

Do you feel like you're not quite where you want to be? Or maybe you feel as if what you're believing God for isn't happening or manifesting itself. In this episode, host Chae Cole describes the stories of Joseph, David, and one of his own. The stories will serve as inspiration for anyone is looking at situation and you feel like God isn't answering your prayer. This episode is your confirmation that It's Gonna Happen! Scripture: Numbers 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 good? Host: Chae Cole Intro/Closing Beat: Maurice Meyers IG: @mrdiggs23 Instagram: @Coletherapy Website: https://www.coletherapy.com Email: therapycole@gmail.com

This morning I had no thoughts on what to write. My heart is heavy for the suffering this country is going through with the bushfires, and I have a great sense of helplessness. Last night I struggled to pray, 'Please bring rain God.' So my words shifted to 'Please make it not be as bad today as predicted. Please give the firefighters strength. Please protect people.' Earlier this morning I was frustrated by a technical issue with my PC. And then I remembered the people who will be wondering if they will have a home by the end of the day. And the people who have chosen to stay and protect their homes. Perspective came. But still the question is there, 'What do I write about today?' So I ask God, 'Please tell me what to write about today.' He simply responds, 'Me.' Start at the beginning .... In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 NKJV The earth. Our temporary home. Heaven. Our eternal home. 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." So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Genesis 1:26-27 NKJV God forgive us for not taking care of all you have given us. And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8 NKJV When we are seemingly hemmed in, help us to trust that you have gone before us, you are with us and you will not leave us. God, you're such a safe and powerful place to find refuge! You're a proven help in times of trouble - more than enough and always available whenever I need you. Psalm 46:1 TPT Sometimes your help comes in ways we don't expect. You are always more than enough. Thank you. For this how much God loved the world - he gave his one and only, unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes in him will never perish but experience everlasting life. John 3:16 TPT Jesus Christ. Choose to believe in Him. And since we now have a magnificent King-Priest to welcome us into God's house, we come closer to God and approach him with an open heart, fully convinced by faith that nothing will keep us at a distance from him. Hebrews 10:21 TPT We open our hearts to you God. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,     neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth,     so are my ways higher than your ways    and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV We choose to trust that your ways are higher than ours and that you are at work in the unseen. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes and eliminate death entirely. No one will mourn or weep any longer. The pain of wounds will no longer exist, for the old order has ceased. Revelation 21:4 TPT We know the end-game. Eternity with You, our Heavenly Father. Thank you. Let's finish with the prayer Jesus suggested we pray, from The Passion Translation .... Our Father, dwelling in heavenly realms, may the glory of your name be the centre on which our lives turn. Manifest your kingdom realm, and cause your every purpose to be fulfilled on earth, just as it is fulfilled in heaven. We acknowledge you as our Provider of all we need each day. Forgive us the wrongs we have done as we ourselves release forgiveness to those who have wronged us. Rescue us every time we face tribulation and set us free from evil. For you are the King who rules with power and glory forever. Amen. Matthew 6:9-13 TPT Today is a good day to 'pray without ceasing' for this nation. To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

Nov. 13, 2019, | Pastor Nathan Elms Giving thanks is God's will for us. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Thessalonians+5%3A18&version=NKJV) If we are only grateful during good times, our response hinges on God's gifts to us, and our gratitude becomes conditional and weak. The Israelites expressed this conditional gratitude to God many times throughout the Old Testament. They were thankful when the Lord delivered them, but they were often grumbling when things didn't go their way. If we're honest, it's easier to be thankful when things are great in our lives, not when they are hard. The danger comes when our warmth towards God becomes dependent on the tangible good things he provides us rather than the good God he has proven to be. James 1:2-4 (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+1%3A2-4&version=NKJV) God desires that we desire Him, the Giver, and not the gifts alone. Psalm 107:15, ESV (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+107%3A15&version=ESV) God is not aloof or distant, nor is he fickle in his love like the Israelites and us. He is ever-present and continually offers the gift of himself, even when we experience suffering, persecution, sickness, financial burden, relational turmoil, or other hardships. James 1:17 ESV (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+1%3A17&version=ESV) Here are 7 scientifically proven benefits (Psychology magazine) : 1. Gratitude opens the door to more relationships. 2. Gratitude improves physical health. 3. Gratitude improves psychological health. 4. Gratitude enhances empathy and reduces aggression. 5. Grateful people sleep better. 6. Gratitude improves self-esteem. 7. Gratitude increases mental strength. Recognizing all that you have to be thankful for —even during the worst times—fosters resilience.

By Pastor Robert Rosales 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— - Matthew 16:18 (NLT) - Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. - 2 Timothy 3:16 (NKJV) - All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, - Numbers 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? - Psalms 119:89 (NKJV) - Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven. - Matthew 24:35 (NKJV) - Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. - 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. - Joshua 24:14-15 (NKJV) - “Now therefore, 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! 15 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.” - 2 Corinthians 10:1-6 (NIV) - Now I, Paul, myself am pleading with you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ—who in presence am lowly among you, but being absent am bold toward you. 2 But I beg you that when I am present I may not be bold with that confidence by which I intend to be bold against some, who think of us as if we walked according to the flesh. 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled. Message Points Signs that I'm NOT reading God's Word: 1. I'm making bad or wrong choices 2. I'm fearful regarding the future. 3. I'm tolerating sin in my life. 4. I'm looking and acting like the world. 5. I'm not hearing from God. Q1: What is the Armor of God? A1: Armor of God is essentially the Word of God Q2: What is Belt of Truth? A2: The Belt of Truth is the Integrity of the Written Word of God. Q3: How do I put on the Belt of Truth? A3: Put on the Belt of Truth by Reading and Believing God's Word. Q4: How do I use the Belt of Truth? A4: I use the Belt of Truth by Applying God's Word to My Life

By Pastor Gil 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 - Matthew 16:18 (NLT) - Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. - 2 Timothy 3:16 (NKJV) - All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, - Numbers 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? - Psalms 119:89 (NKJV) - Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven. - Matthew 24:35 (NKJV) - Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. - 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. - Joshua 24:14-15 (NKJV) - “Now therefore, 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! 15 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.” - 2 Corinthians 10:1-6 (NIV) - Now I, Paul, myself am pleading with you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ—who in presence am lowly among you, but being absent am bold toward you. 2 But I beg you that when I am present I may not be bold with that confidence by which I intend to be bold against some, who think of us as if we walked according to the flesh. 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, 6 and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled. Message Points Q1: What is the Armor of God? A1: Armor of God is essentially the Word of God. Q2: What is Belt of Truth? A2: The Belt of Truth is the Integrity of the Written Word of God. Q3: How do I put on the Belt of Truth? A3: Put on the Belt of Truth by Reading and Believing God's Word. Q4: How do I use the Belt of Truth? A4: I use the Belt of Truth by Applying God's Word to My Life.

KINGS AND KINGDOMS Why do bad things happen to good people? If God is loving, why is human suffering possible? Does the weight of a great life fall on God’s sovereign control, or are there human factors involved too? In this preaching series, KINGS AND KINGDOMS, we will explore how God has delegated to individual believers a kingship, with responsibility to understand the principles that make the kingdom thrive. We will learn how to engage spiritual authority, how to defuse the emotional shame that drives a king to live like an indigent, and ultimately how to live like God’s royal people. If you have ever had questions of why “God let this happen,” you will find nurture, freedom and a deep sense of security from this series. TODAY’S SERMON NOTES ROMANS 5:17 AMP For if because of one man’s trespass (Adam’s original lapse, offense) death reigned through that one, much more surely will those who receive [God’s] overflowing GRACE (unmerited favor) and the free GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS [putting them into right standing with Himself] REIGN AS KINGS IN LIFE through the one Man Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).   IF GOD IS SOVEREIGN,  AND WE ARE KINGS, WHY…?   THE ANSWER COMES UNDERSTANDING TWO THINGS 1.     God’s Sovereignty 2.     The Nature of Evil   1 TIMOTHY 6:14-15 AMP [Timothy said] Keep all His precepts unsullied and flawless, irreproachable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Anointed One), Which [appearing] will be shown forth in His own proper time by the blessed, only SOVEREIGN (Ruler), the KING OF KINGS and the LORD OF LORDS…” JOHN 8:32 NKJV [Jesus said] And you shall KNOW THE TRUTH, and the TRUTH shall MAKE YOU FREE.   THE POWER OF AN UNTRUTH 1.       The truth you believe will make you free! 2.       Partial truth is an untruth! 3.       The untruths you believe will keep you bound!   STERILIZE THESE PARTIAL TRUTHS God’s Sovereignty The Nature of Evil   WHAT IS SOVEREIGNTY? Above or superior to all others; independent of all others; under no rule or law outside Himself.          GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY IS FIXED WITH FINALITY IN REDEMPTION!   GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY IS EXPRESSED WITH FINALITY IN GOD’S WORD!   PSALM 89:34 NKJV [God said] My COVENANT I will NOT BREAK, NOR ALTER the WORD that has gone out of My lips. MALACHI 3:6 NKJV [God said] For I [am] the LORD, I DO NOT CHANGE.   ERRATIC SOVEREIGNTY VERSUS PREDICTABLE SOVEREIGNTY   GOD IS ONLY IN CONTROL OF THE PART OF YOUR LIFE YOU GIVE HIM CONTROL OF!!!!   DEUTERONOMY 30:19 NKJV [God said] I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, [that] I have SET BEFORE YOU life and death, BLESSING and CURSING; therefore CHOOSE LIFE, that both you and your descendants may live; DEUTERONOMY 28:1-2 NKJV [God said] IF YOU diligently OBEY the voice of the LORD your God, to OBSERVE CAREFULLY all His COMMANDMENTS which I command you today, that the LORD your God will set you high above all nations of the earth. 2 and all these BLESSINGS shall come upon you and overtake you, BECAUSE YOU OBEY the voice of the LORD your God: DEUTERONOMY 28:15 NKJV BUT it shall come to pass, if you DO NOT OBEY the voice of the LORD your God, to OBSERVE CAREFULLY all His COMMANDMENTS and His statutes which I command you today, that all these CURSES will come upon you and overtake you:   HOW MARGINAL AND LOOSE CAN WE GET BEFORE WE GO TOO FAR?   MATTHEW 18:18 CEV [Jesus said] I promise you that God in heaven will ALLOW WHATEVER YOU ALLOW on earth, but HE WILL NOT ALLOW anything YOU DON'T ALLOW.   JOSHUA 24:15 CHOOSE YOU this day who you are going to serve… ISAIAH 66:3 THEY HAVE CHOSEN their own ways… MATTHEW 16:24, 25 If any man WILL come after me… 2 PETER 3:5 They deliberately [WILLFULLY] FORGET [what God said]… JOHN 5:40 And you WILL NOT come to me, that you might have life.    IT’S NOT PERSONAL AND GOD IS NOT TARGETING YOU. IT’S SPIRITUAL LAW!   NEXT WEEK HOW EVIL HAPPENS!

And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” (Galatians 4:6, NKJV) God... the Spirit.... his Son... The Trinity. It's the big one, as far as theological confusion goes. The doctrine of the Trinity has puzzled and awed believers since the beginning. God is one. God is three. Which is it? How can these two go together? Why do we even believe this teaching? In this episode, Bill Giovannetti explores the awesome doctrine of the Trinity. What it means. What it doesn't mean. Why it matters. You will come away with a greater sense of the grandeur of God than ever before. As always, please use the Subscribe and Share buttons to help spread the word!

And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” (Galatians 4:6, NKJV) God... the Spirit.... his Son... The Trinity. It's the big one, as far as theological confusion goes. The doctrine of the Trinity has puzzled and awed believers since the beginning. God is one. God is three. Which is it? How can these two go together? Why do we even believe this teaching? In this episode, Bill Giovannetti explores the awesome doctrine of the Trinity. What it means. What it doesn't mean. Why it matters. You will come away with a greater sense of the grandeur of God than ever before. As always, please use the Subscribe and Share buttons to help spread the word!

SUNDAY JUNE 30 - FAQ BIO Do you ever sit around wondering about certain spiritual questions like… “Is it wrong to go dancing?” “Should a Christian get a tattoo?”  “Will we be married in heaven?” “Do people turn into angels in heaven?”  “Is it wrong to trust in horoscopes?” “Is it OK to spank your kids?”  “What’s up with the whole dinosaur stuff?” “Is there ‘for real’ an unforgiveable sin?” You’ve got questions? The Bible has the answers. And where the text is unclear, we will give you our opinions and what has formed them. Some of life’s most fun, most interesting, most shocking, and most trivial questions will be discussed with real questions from real people.   Q&A RULES: The Bible is the STANDARD OF TRUTH Wherever the BIBLE SPEAKS CLEARLY, I will stand with it and will not waiver a bit Where the BIBLE DOESN’T SPEAK DIRECTLY to an issue, I will look for PRINCIPLES TO APPLY If I CAN’T FIND PRINCIPLES that apply, I will give MY OPINION Let’s do it all with a SPIRIT OF GRACE, compassion, empathy and shared experiences. Nobody is a “STUPID IDIOT!” 1 PETER 3:15 NIV Always be PREPARED TO GIVE AN ANSWER to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with GENTLENESS and RESPECT. 2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17 NIV All SCRIPTURE is God-breathed and is useful for TEACHING, REBUKING, CORRECTING and TRAINING in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.   TOPICS IN FAQ SERIES - FOUR CATEGORIZED TOPICS God’s Love, Salvation & Eternity Bible Interpretation, Faith & Science Church Community & Relationships with Unbelievers Moral Behavior & Sexuality   TODAYS MESSAGE - MORAL BEHAVIOR   1 - MORALITY & ETHICS - What is morality?   DEFINITION Principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and bad behavior.   TWO CATEGORIC VIEWS OF MORALITY 1.   MORAL RELATIVISM 2.   MORAL ABSOLUTISM   MORAL RELATIVISM: The view that moral standards and judgments are only relative to the subject opinion of the individual and that no standpoint is privileged over all others.   MORAL ABSOLUTISM: The view that there are absolute standards and judgments that universally apply to all people and cultures.   BOOK – CHRISTIAN ETHICS – NORMAN GEISLER _______________ 2 - MORALITY & ETHICS - Can I participate in things that AREN’T EXPLICITLY “CHRISTIAN?” JAMES 4:4 NLT … Don't you realize that FRIENDSHIP with the WORLD makes you an enemy of God? JAMES 4:17 ESV So whoever KNOWS THE RIGHT THING to do and FAILS TO DO IT, for him it is SIN.   8 FILTER QUESTIONS  Does God clearly say you should or should not participate? Is it congruent with your values and life vision? Does it emotionally dysregulate you or diminish your love for Jesus? Does it infringe upon your conscience? Does it diminish your own story in Jesus? Does it compel “secrets” with those you trust? Does it open you to moral vulnerabilities? Would you like to see your Pastor/Pastor’s wife doing it? _______________ 3 - SANTA CLAUS – What should I tell my kids about Santa? _______________ 4 -  CURSING – What determines whether something is a curse word, since nowhere in the bible is there a list found of inappropriate words? MATTHEW 15:18-20 NKJV [Jesus said] But those things which proceed out of the MOUTH COME FROM the HEART, and they DEFILE a man. 19 For OUT OF THE HEART proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. EPHESIANS 5:4 NIV [Paul said] Nor should there be OBSCENITY, FOOLISH TALK or COARSE JOKING, which are out of place, BUT RATHER THANKSGIVING. EPHESIANS 4:29 NKJV [Paul said] Let NO CORRUPT WORD proceed out of your mouth, but what is GOOD for necessary EDIFICATION, that it may impart GRACE TO THE HEARERS. _______________ 5 - DEMON MOVIES - Is watching a show or movie with demons in it a sin. PROVERBS 4:23 NIV Above all else, GUARD your HEART, for everything you do flows from it. 2 PETER 2:7-8 NKJV [God] delivered righteous Lot, [who was] oppressed [VEXED] BY THE FILTHY CONDUCT of the wicked 8 (for that righteous man, dwelling among them, TORMENTED [HIS] RIGHTEOUS SOUL from day to day by seeing and hearing [their] lawless deeds)-- EPHESIANS 5:8-12 NIV For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11 Have NOTHING TO DO with the fruitless deeds of DARKNESS, but rather expose them. 12 It is SHAMEFUL EVEN TO MENTION what the DISOBEDIENT DO IN SECRET. _______________ 6 - NATIONAL LAWS - Is it a sin to break NATIONAL LAWS LIKE SPEEDING? ROMANS 13:1-5 NKJV Let every soul be subject to the GOVERNING AUTHORITIES. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. 2 Therefore whoever RESISTS THE AUTHORITY resists the ORDINANCE OF GOD, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be UNAFRAID OF THE AUTHORITY? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. 4 For he is God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to [execute] wrath on him who practices evil. 5 Therefore [you] must be subject, not only because of wrath but also FOR CONSCIENCE' SAKE.   QUESTIONS Does God care if I drive 56 MPH in a 55 SPEED ZONE? Does God care if I park for 1 MINUTE over my paid PARKING METER TIME? Does God care if eat 3 SAMPLE GRAPES at the grocery store, or are the 2 EXTRA “THEFT”?   FILTER QUESTIONS Is my heart in an ATTITUDE OF SUBMISSION? Am I predisposed to PAY THE PENALTY? Does it violate OTHER PEOPLE’S RIGHTS? Does it put OTHER PEOPLE IN DANGER? Does it VIOLATE “LOVE” with anyone, including police officers? _______________ 7 - DEPRESSION & MEDICATION - Is it wrong to take medication for depression/anxiety as a Christian? PROVERBS 17:22 NKJV A merry heart does good, [like] medicine… Science of Freedom Workshop _______________ 8 – YOGA & KARATE - Is it wrong to for a Christian to participate in yoga or martial arts? ROMANS 14:14 NIV As one who is in the Lord Jesus, I am fully convinced that NO FOOD is UNCLEAN IN ITSELF. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then FOR HIM it is UNCLEAN. _______________ 9 - HOROSCOPES – Is it wrong for a Christian to read their HOROSCOPES or to go to PSYCHICS? ISAIAH 47:13-15 NIV…Let your ASTROLOGERS come forward, those STARGAZERS who make predictions MONTH BY MONTH…Surely they are like stubble; the fire will burn them up…Each of them goes on in his ERROR… DEUTERONOMY 18:10-12 NIV Let no one be found among who… who practices DIVINATION or SORCERY, interprets OMENS, engages in WITCHCRAFT, or CASTS SPELLS, or who is a MEDIUM or SPIRITIST or who CONSULTS THE DEAD. Anyone who does these things is DETESTABLE TO THE LORD… ISAIAH 8:19 NIV When men tell you to consult mediums and spiritists…SHOULD NOT A PEOPLE INQUIRE OF THEIR GOD?    

There is nothing like visiting your home town to be reminded of where you have come from, and what was being sown into your life when you didn't realise it. The photo above is me standing outside Christ Church, an Anglican church in Ellerslie, Auckland, New Zealand. This is the church my mother took me to when I was a child. It was here that I played the pipe organ (badly) at Sunday services. It is the place where I first experienced the church embrace the community at large. Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel's hand. Zechariah 4:10 NLT It is the church where I started to develop by own relationship with Jesus, before in my late teens becoming immersed in the world of marxist feminist teaching at University. Now I am the mum of teenage children navigating their own faith journey. So as we drove around my home town of Auckland, God gently reminded me that I am also the mum who went into the spiritual wilderness for about six years before returning to the place of acknowledging Jesus as my Lord and Saviour. Amazing Grace. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”  2 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV God also reminded me of all the seeds that were sown in my life when my mother regularly took me to church when I was a child, all those years ago. Dedicate your children to God and point them in the way that they should go, and the values they’ve learned from you will be with them for life. Proverbs 22:6 TPT Seeds of God's truth and love that took root in my heart and have grown and bloomed in various ways over the years. Seeds that illustrate so clearly to me that God always goes before us, and He always has a plan. It is the Lord Who goes before you; He will [march] with you; He will not fail you or let you go or forsake you; [let there be no cowardice or flinching, but] fear not, neither become broken [in spirit—depressed, dismayed, and unnerved with alarm]. Deuteronomy 31:8 AMPC One beautiful autumn afternoon while I was in Auckland, God reminded me of another way that He had prepared me for my future. I was blessed that afternoon to go sailing on the Hauraki Gulf with my father on his boat. For those who enjoy a fast exhilarating sail, this was not their afternoon. Rather it was an afternoon of contemplation as the yacht ambled along in the glorious sunshine, occasionally making 3 knots! As we circumnavigated an island in the gulf I started to reflect on all that the sailing adventures of my youth had taught me, and how those lessons had helped me over the years. One of those lessons that stood out was patience. On the sail that afternoon we had the option of turning on the motor and increasing the speed to 6 knots. But neither of us wanted the chug chug chug of the diesel engine to ruin the serenity of the quiet slapping of the water against the hull. Remember we were only probably averaging 2 knots! So we persevered with the sailing, although it really wasn't that painful! Sometimes in life we don't have any other options (like turning on the diesel engine), to 'improve' the situation. We have to be patient and trust that God's got this. He is the Alpha and Omega. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last. Revelation 22:13 NKVJ We have to trust that He is Lord of all, and He is always working in our lives. A truth that God very clearly reminded me of during the past 10 days when visiting my home town. I pray with great faith for you, because I’m fully convinced that the One who began this glorious work in you will faithfully continue the process of maturing you and will put his finishing touches to it until the unveiling of our Lord Jesus Christ! Philippians 1:6 TPT For more information please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

If your faith remains strong, even while surrounded by life's difficulties, you will continue to experience the untold blessings of God! True happiness comes as you pass the test with faith, and receive the victorious crown of life promised to every lover of God! James 1:12 TPT There is a lot to consider in that scripture, but the question that keeps coming into my head this morning is "Am I a lover of God?" I know without a doubt that I am a lover of chocolate, especially smooth dark chocolate! I know what dark chocolate looks like and tastes like. And I know exactly where to find it in the supermarket aisle. But what about God? What does He look like? What is it like to taste his love? Where do you find him when you need him? What does God look like? I don't know. But I know what His love looks like ... the peace that comes in a situation that seems utterly hopeless; the thing that just happens and there is no other explanation other than God did it; the word of encouragement that comes when no-one else knew what was going on in your life - except God; and of course the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus, opening the door for us to spend eternity with God. What is it like to taste God's love? For me it is like that ice cool refreshing drink you have on a sweltering day, that helps to bring relief from the heat. His love brings me to back to the place of knowing that no matter what is going on, healing and restoration is possible. Other times his love is like that smooth hot chocolate drink that brings comfort, when even a hot chocolate drink can't. It is a comfort that is more than momentary. It is deep and stays with us. Always His love is sweet, bringing a smile to my lips and often tears to my ears as I think on Who He is, the creator of the universe who sent His son Jesus to earth to show His unconditional love for me and you. A love that is far sweeter and smoother than chocolate. Drink deeply of the pleasures of this God. Experience for yourself the joyous mercies he gives to all who turn to hide themselves in him. Psalm 34:8 TPT Where do you find Him? God is here, with us, Emmanuel. “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” Matthew 1:23 NKJV God is everywhere. “Am I a God near at hand,” says the Lord, “And not a God afar off? Can anyone hide himself in secret places, So I shall not see him?” says the Lord; “Do I not fill heaven and earth?” says the Lord. Jeremiah 23:23-24 NKJV God has gone before us. And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed. Deuteronomy 31:8 NKJV If we look for God with all our heart, we will find him. He will answer our call. The bible tells us that in Jeremiah 29. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:12-13 NKJV And because of what Jesus did, when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, God is directly accessible to each of us today .... And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus.  By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place.  And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-22 NKJV Just mentioning chocolate again ..... even though it is delicious and so accessible in our world, it doesn't offer the salvation and new life that Jesus does. So back to the original question that I was pondering, 'Am I a lover of God?' Knowing what Jesus has done for me, knowing the things I think, do and say each day that would not be pleasing to God and knowing that His forgiveness is readily available, knowing that Jesus is interceding for me, knowing that He won't leave me or forsake me, then the answer has to be yes. Could I be a better lover of God? The answer again is yes, and that comes through the daily walk with Christ, living more of His way and less of my way. Thank you Jesus for your grace. My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20 NLT To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

Healing Is A Primary Issue Psalm 103:1-5 “Bless the LORD, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Proverbs 18:9 He who does not use his endeavors to heal himself is brother to him who commits suicide.#1. Healing is part of the salvation packageIsaiah 53:5 He was wounded for our transgressions He was bruised for our iniquities The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we were healed. Matthew 8:17 “He took our sickness and bore our diseases.” Isaiah 52:14 But many were amazed when they saw him. His face was so disfigured he seemed hardly human, and from his appearance, one would scarcely know he was a man. #2. Jesus Majored On Healing Acts 10:38 (NKJV) God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healingall who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him. #3. Jesus Called and Empowered Us To Do ItMatthew 10:1 And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease. Misbelief #1. God doesn’t heal anymore.Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Malachi 3:6 For I am the Lord, I change not; Misbelief #2. It’s not God’s will to healMatthew 6:10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Misbelief #3. It’s God’s will to heal, just not everyoneRomans 2:11 For God shows no partiality [no arbitrary favoritism; with Him one person is not more important than another].If you’re going to experience the promise of healing… you have to:1. Hate SicknessActs 10:38 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 devil2. Deal With Healing Hindrances3. Pray God’s Word1 John 5:14-15 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us--whatever we ask--we know that we have what we asked of him. 4. Speak To The SicknessMark 11:23 whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. #5 Stand in Faith2 Corinthians 5:7 (NKJV) 7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. #6 Look To The Lamb#7 Keep Believing1 Corinthians 13:12 we can see and understand only a little about God now, as if we were peering at his reflection in a poor mirror; but someday we are going to see him in his completeness, face-to-face. Now all that I know is hazy and blurred, but then I will see everything clearly, just as clearly as God sees into my heart right now.

"Mum, are you listening to me?" "Well, I do know you were talking about ......, but I might have missed some of what you said." To be honest, I probably missed quite a bit of what they said because when they came to speak to me I continued on with whatever I was doing and only half-listened to what they were saying to me! Too task focused. I apologise for my inattentiveness, but our child still has that sense that Mum doesn't always listen to me. Thankfully our Heavenly Father is not like that. He, in His majestically mysterious way, is available 24/7 for each one of us. In Jeremiah, the Lord says, Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. Jeremiah 29:12 NKJV God listening to us does not necessarily translate into Him doing what we ask. Just like as a parent we listen to our children's requests, but we don't always fulfill them as we often have a bigger picture in mind. Our Heavenly Father is the same. Our job is to stick with Him, wait and trust. But me, I'm not giving up. I'm sticking around to see what God will do. I'm waiting for God to make things right. I'm counting on God to listen to me. Micah 7:7 The Message Trust. Trust that His promises are true, despite what we see. How difficult that can be sometimes. We need to remind ourselves of the good things our God has done - starting with our salvation. This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. Through the LORD's mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness, "The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "Therefore I hope in Him!" The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him, It is good that one should hope and wait quietly For the salvation of the LORD. Lamentations 3:21-26 NKJV Wait patiently upon the LORD - Not always an easy thing to do. But as we go through trial after trial, hopefully we start to hone that skill of waiting patiently. As in each of those trials we see more and more of our God's faithfulness so our trust levels increase. We come to a place of knowing without a doubt that He listens to us because He loves us, and He has a plan for us. For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

2018/12/24 Pastor Richard Welsh 韋日卓牧師 Categories: Video: https://hongkong.mylifehouse.com/tv/message/marys-new-family *Mary’s New Family* *瑪利亞的新家庭* 1. God created it all, and it was good 神創造了一切，都是美好的 (Genesis 1:31 NKJV) Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good. So the evening and the morning were the sixth day. 創世紀 1章31節 (NCV) 神看他所造的一切都很好。有晚上，有早晨；這是第六日。 2. God wanted his family back 神想衪的兒女回來祂身邊 (Mark 10:45 NKJV) For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many. 馬可福音 10章45節 (NCV) 因為人子來，不是要受人服事，而是要服事人，並且要捨命，作許多人的贖價。 3. Jesus was born 2018 years ago to be that Saviour 耶穌在2018年前已經成為了救主 (Luke 2:19 NKJV) But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. 路加福音 2章19節 (NCV) 馬利亞把這一切放在心裡，反覆思想。 4. It was a family that Jesus came to. It was a family that God wanted 這是耶穌降臨在世上的家庭，是神期望耶穌有的一個家 (Psalm 68:6a NKJV) God sets the solitary in families; He brings out those who are bound into prosperity 詩篇 68章6節上 (NCV) 神使孤獨的有家可居住；領被囚的出來，到豐盛之處； (Mark 2:17 NKJV) When Jesus heard it, He said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” 馬可福音 2章17節 (NCV) 耶穌聽見了，就對他們說：“健康的人不需要醫生，有病的人才需要；我來不是要召義人，而是要召罪人。

Ordination & Commissioning Service www.victory.net.nz 02.12.2018 2 Timothy 1:9 (NKJV) (God) who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.   God has called every believer with a holy calling:  

TODAY’S PREACHING   PROMISES, PROMISES? GUARANTEES? GOOD INTENTIONS?  _______________  BIBLICAL PROMISES = ESTABLISHED FACTS (Not future GOOD INTENTIONS or MYTHICAL FANTASIES) _______________  31,173 Scriptures / 30,000+ Promises? / 8810 Promises _______________ HEBREWS 8:6 NKJV … (Jesus Christ) is also Mediator of a BETTER COVENANT, which was established on BETTER PROMISES. 1 CORINTHIANS 11:23-25 NKJV …the Lord Jesus on the [same] night in which He was betrayed took BREAD; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke [it] and said, "Take, eat; this is MY BODY which is BROKEN FOR YOU; do this in remembrance of Me." 25 In the same manner [He] also [took] the CUP (OF WINE) after supper, saying, "This cup is the NEW COVENANT in MY BLOOD. This do, as often as you drink [it], in remembrance of Me." HEBREWS 9:22 NKJV And according to the law almost all things are PURIFIED WITH BLOOD, and without SHEDDING OF BLOOD there is NO REMISSION (OF SIN).  _______________ ADAM  GENESIS 2:7 NKJV And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the BREATH OF LIFE; and man became a LIVING BEING. LEVITICUS 17:11, 14 NKJV For the LIFE OF THE FLESH [IS] IN THE BLOOD, … for it [is] the BLOOD [that] makes ATONEMENT for the soul. ... 14 for [it is] the LIFE of all flesh. Its BLOOD sustains its LIFE.  _______________ EVE GENESIS 2:18, 21-23 NKJV And the LORD God said, "[It is] not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him." ... 21 And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his RIBS, and closed up the flesh in its place. 22 Then the RIB which the LORD God had taken from man HE MADE INTO A WOMAN, and He brought her to the man. 23 And Adam said: "This [is] now BONE OF MY BONES And FLESH OF MY FLESH; She shall be called Woman, Because she was taken out of Man."  _______________  ADAM AND EVE SINNED GENESIS 2:16-17 NKJV And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, … 17 "but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely DIE." ROMANS 6:23 NKJV For the wages of sin [is] DEATH… GENESIS 3:21 NKJV Also for Adam and his wife the LORD God made tunics of SKIN, and clothed them. LEVITICUS 17:11, 14 NKJV For the LIFE OF THE FLESH [IS] IN THE BLOOD, … for it [is] the BLOOD [that] makes ATONEMENT for the soul. ... 14 for [it is] the LIFE of all flesh. Its BLOOD sustains its LIFE. _______________ CAIN AND ABEL GENESIS 4:2-5 NKJV …Now ABEL was a keeper of SHEEP, but CAIN was a tiller of the GROUND. 3 And in the process of time it came to pass that Cain brought an OFFERING OF THE FRUIT of the ground to the LORD. 4 Abel also brought of the FIRSTBORN OF HIS FLOCK and of their fat. And the LORD RESPECTED ABEL and his offering, 5 but He DID NOT RESPECT CAIN and his offering. HEBREWS 11:4 NKJV BY FAITH ABEL offered to God a MORE EXCELLENT SACRIFICE than CAIN… _______________  ABRAHAM - ISAAC HEBREWS 11:17-19 NKJV By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten [son], 18 of whom it was said, "In Isaac your seed shall be called," 19 concluding that GOD [WAS] ABLE TO RAISE [HIM] UP, EVEN FROM THE DEAD, from which he also received him in a figurative sense. _______________  MOSES EXODUS 12:5, 7-8, 11-14 NKJV 'Your LAMB SHALL BE WITHOUT BLEMISH, a male of the first year. You may take [it] from the sheep or from the goats. ... 7 'And they shall take [some] of the BLOOD and put [it] on the two doorposts and on the lintel of the houses where they eat it. 8 'Then they shall EAT THE FLESH on that night; roasted in fire, with UNLEAVENED BREAD [and] with bitter [herbs] they shall eat it. ... 11 'And thus you shall eat it: [with] a belt on your waist, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand. So you shall eat it in haste. It [is] the LORD'S PASSOVER. 12 'For I will pass through the land of Egypt on that night, and will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment: I [am] the LORD. 13 'Now the BLOOD SHALL BE A SIGN for you on the houses where you [are]. And when I see the BLOOD, I will pass over you; and the plague shall not be on you to destroy [you] when I strike the land of Egypt. 14 'So this day shall be to you a memorial; and you shall KEEP IT AS A FEAST to the LORD throughout your generations. You shall keep it as a feast by an everlasting ordinance.’ PSALM 105:37 NKJV He also brought them out with silver and gold, And [there was] NONE FEEBLE among His tribes. _______________  JESUS GENESIS 3:15 NKJV (God said to the serpent, Satan) And I will put enmity Between you and the WOMAN, And between your seed and HER SEED; He shall bruise your head, And you shall bruise His heel." 1 PETER 2:22, 24 NKJV (Jesus Christ) Who committed NO SIN, Nor was deceit found in His mouth; ... 24 who Himself BORE OUR SINS in His own body on the TREE, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness--by WHOSE STRIPES YOU WERE HEALED. JOHN 19:30 NKJV …(Jesus said) "IT IS FINISHED!" And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit. REVELATION 13:8 NKJV - 8 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. COLOSSIANS 1:14, 20 NKJV … in whom (Jesus Christ) we have REDEMPTION through His BLOOD, the forgiveness of sins. ... 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. 1 PETER 1:18-19 NKJV …knowing that you were not REDEEMED with corruptible things, [like] silver or gold, from your aimless conduct [received] by tradition from your fathers, 19 but with the PRECIOUS BLOOD OF CHRIST, as of a LAMB WITHOUT BLEMISH and WITHOUT SPOT (Exodus 12:5).  _______________ BLOOD COVENANT = PROMISES = ESTABLISHED FACTS  _______________ TIME TO ACTIVATE Read/Pray/Live the PROMISES as COVENANT FACTS with God!  _______________ COMMUNION TABLE 1 CORINTHIANS 11:23-25 NKJV …the Lord Jesus on the [same] night in which He was betrayed took BREAD; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke [it] and said, "Take, eat; this is MY BODY which is BROKEN FOR YOU; do this in remembrance of Me." 25 In the same manner [He] also [took] the CUP (OF WINE) after supper, saying, "This cup is the NEW COVENANT in MY BLOOD. This do, as often as you drink [it], in remembrance of Me." 26 For as often as you eat this BREAD and drink this CUP, you PROCLAIM THE LORD'S DEATH till He comes. 27 Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks [this] cup of the Lord in an UNWORTHY MANNER will be guilty of the BODY and BLOOD of the Lord. 28 But let a man EXAMINE HIMSELF, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For he who eats and drinks in an UNWORTHY MANNER eats and drinks JUDGMENT to himself, NOT DISCERNING THE LORD'S BODY. 30 FOR THIS REASON many [are] WEAK and SICK among you, and many SLEEP (HAVE DIED).  _______________

TODAY’S PREACHING   PROMISES, PROMISES? GUARANTEES? GOOD INTENTIONS?  _______________  BIBLICAL PROMISES = ESTABLISHED FACTS (Not future GOOD INTENTIONS or MYTHICAL FANTASIES) _______________  31,173 Scriptures / 30,000+ Promises? / 8810 Promises  _______________ HEBREWS 8:6 NKJV … (Jesus Christ) is also Mediator of a better COVENANT, which was established on better PROMISES. _______________ WHAT IS A COVENANT A covenant is a binding agreement between two parties, based in both intimacy and law, promising blessing and cursing; and even death to the one who breaks it.  _______________ A COVENANT IS MORE THAN A CONTRACT Agree to terms Select representatives Cut Blood Exchange Clothes (Robes - Identity) Exchange Belts and Weapons (Strength) Walk unto Death (Sacrificial Animals) Pronounce Blessings / Cursings (Oaths/Vows) Seal of Covenant (Most Prized Possessions) Exchange Names Commemorate by a Memorial Sign (Piling stones, Planting Trees, Rainbows) Have a Covenant Meal Together (Ingest Food = Ingest Me) Exchange of Oldest Male Child _______________  OLD COVENANT – NEW COVENANT  HEBREWS 8:6 NKJV … (Jesus Christ) is also Mediator of a better COVENANT, which was established on better PROMISES. HEBREWS 8:9-10 NLT This COVENANT will not be like the ONE I MADE WITH THEIR ANCESTORS when I took them by the hand and led them out of the land of Egypt. …10 But this is the NEW COVENANT I will make with the people of Israel on that day, says the LORD: I will put my laws in their minds, and I will write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.  _______________ WHAT IS THE OLD COVENANT? Abraham’s Covenant Moses’ Covenant  _______________ ABRAHAM’S COVENANT (GEN 12-17) Protection Reward Great Name Financially Prosperous Legacy Health _______________ MOSES’ COVENANT (EX 19-34) Protection Reward Great Name Financially Prosperous Legacy Health _______________ DEUTERONOMY 28:1-2, 15, 20-22, 25 NKJV (God said) If you FULLY OBEY the LORD your God and carefully follow all his COMMANDS I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. 2 All these BLESSINGS will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God: 4 Have a fertile womb; crops and livestock will be blessed 5 Your business will be blessed 7 The Lord will protect you from your enemies 8 You will be blessed in bank accounts and other storage houses of blessing; the  circumstances of economies won’t matter to you 9 The LORD will establish you as his holy people, as he promised you on oath, if you keep the commands of the LORD your God and walk in his ways. 13 The LORD will make you the head, not the tail.  _______________ DEUTERONOMY 28:15 NKJV However, if you DO NOT OBEY the LORD your God and do not carefully follow all his COMMANDS and decrees I am giving you today, all these CURSES will come upon you and overtake you: The Hebrew language, the original text here, does not have a “causative” verb but only a “permissive”. It should say, “God will allow…”   Since the directive is clear, YOU hold the power to initiate blessings and YOU have the power to initiate the cursing. God ONLY allows what you and I initiate. 17 You won’t enjoy your work/labor 18 You won’t be able to get pregnant, and you will struggle in both finances and vocational successes 20 You will lack of peace, wisdom and clear decision-making and have no safety or protection or security of future 21 You will have sickness, disease and physical weakness 23 Nothing will be easy, no favor, no momentum 24 Opportunities will be hard, impossible, and hopeless 25 Shame, regret, oppression will be the norm along with fear, faithlessness, question, skepticism 26 You will experience isolation, aloneness, separation 28 You will have darkness, confusion, mental and psychological breakdowns 29 You will have complete failure and be victimized with nor oversight or justice 30 Your spouse will be given to sexual rape. 31 Your dreams will be taken from you 32 You will experience literal and spiritual child abductions 34 You will find yourself meditating on your regrets and intense emotions of injustice 36 Your religion will not make sense but be forced upon you 37 You will have embarrassment, shame, rejection, humiliation 38 Everything will be against you and nothing will work out for you 39 Unforeseen, pest-like things will spring up. When you do everything right, something will happen to undermine it. 40 You hopes will begin to get up. But in the last minute you will have them crushed. 41 You will be captivity to drugs, alcohol, to people/spouses who don’t like you, literal child abductions, kidnappings, etc. 42 New and multiplied problems will arise from places you will be surprised by 43 Everyone else gets promoted and are favored over you, while you continue to stagnate and find no favor 44 Others will be in control over you and have tentacles that harass your life 46 Your failure will not be merely natural, you will have miracle level and supernatural failure. 48 Your work and vocation will be intense with oppression 50 Life will have no compassion or empathy from anyone who has the human power to change it) 61 Any disaster that can be conceived will happen to you  _______________ GALATIANS 3:13-14, 29 NKJV CHRIST has REDEEMED us from the CURSE OF THE LAW, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "Cursed [is] everyone who hangs on a tree"), 14 that the BLESSING OF ABRAHAM might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the PROMISE of the Spirit through faith. ... 29 And if you [are] CHRIST'S, then you are ABRAHAM'S SEED, and HEIRS according to the PROMISE.  _______________ TIME TO ACTIVATE Read/Pray/Live the PROMISES as COVENANT FACTS with God!

TODAY’S SERMON NOTES JOSHUA 1:8 NKJV (God said to Joshua) This BOOK OF THE LAW (Word of God) 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.   HOW TO INTEGRATE, REGULATE AND ACTIVATE   THINK IT HEAR IT IMAGINE IT DECLARE IT [TILL I FEEL IT]  ____________________  To be BUILT means I must… INTEGRATE God’s Word into my THINKING REGULATE God’s Word into my EMOTIONS ACTIVATE God’s Word into my DOING  ____________________ TO BE BUILT MEANS I MUST… THINK it till I FEEL it, FEEL it till I DO it, and DO it till I LIVE it!  ____________________   DECLARATIONS – DECLARE IT! FACING PRESSURE - I am of God and have overcome him (satan). For greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world. (I John 4:4) FACING PRESSURE - I am far from oppression and fear does not come near me. (Isaiah 54:14) FACING PRESSURE - No weapon formed against me will prosper, for my righteousness is of the Lord. But whatever I do will prosper for I’m like a tree that’s planted by the rivers of water (Isaiah 54;17; Psalm 1:3) PEACE - The peace of God which passes all understanding keeps my heart and my mind through Christ Jesus. And things which are good, and pure, and perfect, and lovely, and of good report, I think on these things. (Philippians 4:7-8) REACH POTENTIAL - The Lord will perfect that which concerns me. (Psalm 138:8) GAINING WISDOM - I am a new creation in Christ, I am His workmanship created in Christ Jesus. Therefore I have the mind of Christ and the wisdom of God is formed within me. (II Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10; I Corinthians 2:16) FREEDOM/GUILT - And I, having received the gift of righteousness do reign as a king in life by Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:17) FREEDOM DARK - I am delivered from the power of darkness and I am translated into the kingdom of His dear Son. (Colossians 1:13) REDEEMED KIDS - Great is the peace of my children for they are taught of the Lord. (Isaiah 54:13) PROTECTION - No evil will befall me neither shall any plague come near my dwelling. For the Lord has given His angels charge over me and they keep me in all my ways, and in my pathway is life and there is no death. (Psalm 91:10-11; Proverbs 12:28) SECURE DECISIONS - I do follow the good shepherd and I know His voice and the voice of a stranger I will not follow. (John 10:4-5) SECURE DECISIONS - The Lord enlarges my steps and establishes my thoughts. Therefore I will make healthy Holy Spirit-led decisions. (Psalm 18:36; Proverbs 16:3) REDEEMED DECISIONS - The Lord redeems my life from destruction and crowns me with tender mercies. The Lord satisfies my mouth with good things. My steps are ordered by the Lord. Even if I were to fall down, He upholds me with his hand. (Ps 103:4; Ps 37:23-24) SUCCESS AND PROSPERITY - The Lord makes my way prosperous and gives me good success. Jesus has redeemed me from the curse of sin and given me the grace (power in human weakness) to have unlimited available resources. (Joshua 1:8; Gal 3:13; 2 Cor 8:7) TO DOWNLOAD A FULL DECLARATION TOOL CLICK HERE ____________________  HOW WILL I… BUILT THINK IT? FEEL IT? DO IT? ____________________    OTHER SCRIPTURES: PROVERBS 4:20-23 NKJV My son, give ATTENTION to my WORDS; Incline your EAR to my SAYINGS. 21 Do NOT let them DEPART from your EYES; KEEP them in the midst of your HEART; 22 For they [are] LIFE to those who find them, And HEALTH to all their flesh. 23 KEEP your HEART with all DILIGENCE, For out of it [spring] the issues of life. PROVERBS 23:7 NKJV For as he THINKS IN HIS HEART, so [is] he… JAMES 1:2-8 NKJV My brethren, count it all joy when you FALL INTO VARIOUS TRIALS, 3 knowing that the TESTING OF YOUR FAITH produces PATIENCE. 4 But let PATIENCE have [its] PERFECT WORK, that you may be PERFECT AND COMPLETE, LACKING NOTHING. 5 If ANY OF YOU LACKS wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ASK IN FAITH, with NO DOUBTING, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For LET NOT THAT MAN suppose that he will RECEIVE ANYTHING from the Lord; 8 [he is] a DOUBLE-MINDED MAN, UNSTABLE in ALL his ways. JAMES 1:22-25 NKJV But be DOERS OF THE WORD, and NOT HEARERS ONLY, DECEIVING YOURSELVES. 23 For if anyone is a HEARER OF THE WORD and NOT A DOER, he is like a man OBSERVING his natural face in a MIRROR; 24 for he OBSERVES himself, goes away, and IMMEDIATELY FORGETS what kind of man he was. 25 But he who LOOKS INTO the perfect law of liberty and CONTINUES [IN IT], and is NOT A FORGETFUL HEARER but a DOER OF THE WORK, this one will be BLESSED in WHAT HE DOES.  ____________________ HOW WILL I…  BUILT THINK IT? FEEL IT? DO IT?  

John 4:24 (NKJV) God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth

In the seasons of smoother sailing, as well as keeping that hunger for intimacy with God growing, it is important that we take time to understand what God has taught us during the storms, and ask Him how He wants to use us as His vessel to minister to others.  As the season for our family is changing from survival mode to more normal living, I am getting greater revelation of this truth. Here are a couple of scriptures God has recently highlighted to me, But you are God's chosen treasure - priests who are kings, a spiritual "nation" set apart as God's devoted ones. He called you out of darkness to experience his marvellous light, and now he claims you as his very own. He did this so that you would broadcast his glorious wonders throughout the world. 1 Peter 2:9 TPT  Every believer has received grace gifts, so use them to serve one another as faithful stewards of the many-coloured tapestry of God's grace. 1 Peter 4:10 NKJV So why not ask God who He wants you to help, and if they aren't in your life already, ask Him to bring them to you.  I love the movie WarRoom. Yes, it is fiction, however I wonder how many true stories it reflects. For those who haven't seen the movie, it is a beautiful story of an elderly widow who has learned so much from a living in a less than perfect marriage (normal!!!). She asks God to bring a younger wife into her life so she can come alongside her and impart wisdom. In Paul's letter to Titus we find him talking about this type of helping. Likewise with the female elders, lead them into lives free from gossip and drunkenness and to be teachers of beautiful things. This will enable them to teach the  younger women to love their husbands, to love their children, and to be self-controlled and pure, taking care of their household and being devoted to their husbands. By doing these things the word of God will not be discredited. Titus 2:3-5 TPT Imagine what would happen if we all prayed that prayer, 'Lord, bring me someone I can help.' Perhaps you might be thinking, 'I am not equipped to help anyone. I don't have the time and ability.' Be encouraged, you have all that you need to start now.  Years ago I remember hearing someone say, 'just use what is in your hand'. In the early years of Victoria's illness I had a desire to do something more for God, but I was quite limited in time, resources, and location, as most of my time was spent either at the hospital or caring for Victoria at home.  But God reminded me that I had a computer, an internet connection, the ability to write, and that He was doing plenty of things that I could write about.  Throughout that period when I started blogging, and with other projects I have started since, He always reminds me of Zechariah 4:10, Does anyone dare despise this day of small beginnings? They'll change their tune when they see Zerubbabel setting the last stone in place! Zechariah 4:10 The Message Another way that God might be wanting to use you and the wisdom gained from the storms could be by serving in a new or different way at church or elsewhere. This might become evident by a prompting of the Holy Spirit, or an invitation. Last year I received an invitation to do something new, being a reader/writer for the HSC exams. When the invitation came, despite a busy work and family schedule, I felt the Holy Spirit say, 'say yes'. So I said yes.   Press pause - as you may have gathered, during the past seven years my prayer life has changed dramatically, my hunger to spend time with God, and hear his voice is continually growing and impacting on every area of my life, and hopefully by the grace of God, the lives of others around me. Back to the story, during one of the exams, while I was in the room, I was not actually required to any reading or writing. So I started praying in my head for the student, perhaps 15 minutes or so, and then I started to pray for our family. But I felt the Holy Spirit say, 'No, I want you to pray for the student', so I prayed again for the student. Then after a little while I start to pray for our business, but again the Holy Spirit said, 'No, I want you to pray for the student'. So I prayed again for the student. Then I thought about praying for the children's creative ministry at church, but then I finally realised that my job today was not to read and write for the HSC student, it was to pray for them - 2.5hrs of dedicated prayer.  I learned a couple things from that experience, When an invitation comes, we need to ask the Holy Spirit what our answer is to be, as God has probably got far greater plans for that invitation, than just what we can immediately see.  "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways", says the LORD. "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 God really loves us and will go to great lengths to help us in all situations. It amazed me that He loved this student so much, that He would arrange for someone to come and physically sit alongside them and pray for that length of time. I guess it shouldn't have amazed me so much, especially when we remember that God gave up his only Son, Jesus, so we could have eternal life, but I am human and it did. But that thought does bring us back to Jesus, the anchor, where this little series on the analogy of the sailing voyage and the storms of life began. Jesus, our hope in all things. And now we have run into his heart to hide ourselves in his faithfulness. This is where we find his strength and comfort, for he empowers us to seize what has already been established ahead of time - an unshakeable hope! We have this certain hope like a strong, unbreakable anchor holding our souls to God himself. Our anchor of hope is fastened to the mercy seat which sits in the heavenly realm beyond the sacred threshold, and where Jesus, our forerunner, has gone in before us. He is now and forever our royal Priest like Melchizedek. Hebrews 6:18-20 TPT I pray that this series has been a blessing to you and regardless of whatever season you find yourself in now, Jesus will be your hope. And that in all seasons your desire to draw closer to Him will grow, and that the outworking of that desire will be a blessing to many. To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

Abundant Life Church - Pastor Jonathan Clark Reveal it to me Jesus - Ephesians1:17-18 (NKJV) God’s Spirit inside of you will show -John 2:20,27 NKJV

Message Title: Facing Giants (Part I) Numbers 13:1-3, 16-29, 31 (NIV) 1. Be quick to size up your situation but slow to size up yourself - Num 13:31 (NIV) - Don't be a believer that turns good news into a bad report. Be a believer that turns bad news into a good report. 2. Avoid the majority - Num 13:32 (NIV) 3. What are you thinking? - Sometimes our "spies" are not necessarily people; they are our very own thoughts! - Num 13:30 (NIV) - Phil 4:8 (NKJV) - God is not limited by his capability. He's only limited by you capacity to receive. - Num 13:33 (NIV) - We don't experience our reality. We experience our perception of reality. - Your faith is dying in deserts not because of your giants but because of how you're looking at your giants! - Ps 112:6-7 NIV