Podcasts about nlt

High performance feels powerful—until it starts to cost your peace. In this episode, Julie Holly unpacks why success can feel heavy, how story work reveals hidden pressure, and how recalibration restores sustainable excellence without losing your edge.High performance isn't the problem—it's who's driving it.In this opening episode of Season Three of The Recalibration, Julie Holly explores what happens when the same discipline and devotion that built your success start working against your peace. Many high performers quietly carry burnout, decision fatigue, and a loss of joy behind the veneer of achievement.Drawing from psychology, faith, and story work, Julie reveals how narrative reinforcement—the brain's way of protecting identity—can keep high-capacity humans stuck in cycles of striving. She shares how reframing performance through Identity-Level Recalibration (ILR) transforms pressure into peace. This isn't mindset work or productivity hacking—it's the root-level recalibration that makes every other tool finally work again.You'll also hear how Serena Williams embodied this shift, moving from proving to peace: learning to “trust her preparation instead of her push.” And through Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT), Julie reminds faith-rooted listeners that the Sovereign never called them to exhaustion—but to excellence through ease.

“When you pray, don’t babble on and on as the Gentiles do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again. Don’t be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him!” (Matthew 6:7–8 NLT) We’re going to look at prayer over the next few days. To be a growing Christian, you must have an active prayer life. You must communicate with and listen to God regularly. Some church traditions suggest that there are proper and improper ways to pray. That God prefers us to be formal, dignified, and reverent, and to use precise and proper words in a precise and proper cadence. But that’s not necessarily so. Prayer is a conversation. Like other conversations, it can be formal or informal. Certainly, we can’t help but be reverent when we find ourselves in God’s presence, but that doesn’t mean we have to be formal, dignified, proper, or precise. It’s not like one prayer method or posture is more legitimate than another. You can pray in any position at any time in any place. Sometimes we may feel as though the Lord will respond to our prayers more quickly if we pray in a church sanctuary. But that’s not true at all. Daniel prayed in a lion’s den. David prayed in a field. Peter prayed while he walked on water—and then a few moments later when he was underwater. Jonah prayed from even greater depths from the belly of a large fish. God will hear your prayers wherever you are. Your prayers can and should fit your circumstances. You can pray publicly. You can pray privately. You can pray verbally. You can pray silently. You can pray while kneeling, standing, sitting, lying down, or even driving. You can lift your eyes to Heaven and pray. You can close your eyes and pray—as long as you’re not driving. Your prayers don’t have to impress anyone. They don’t have to inspire “Amens” from the congregation. They don’t have to show off your biblical knowledge or vocabulary. In addition to His warning in Matthew 6:7–8 against praying as the Gentiles do, Jesus also said, “When you pray, don’t be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get” (Matthew 6:5 NLT). Your goal should be to create prayer habits that work for you—ones that deepen your unique relationship with your heavenly Father. If you prefer to be active, pray while you walk. If you prefer not to be distracted, pray in a private place. If you don’t like long conversations, pray in short bursts throughout the day. Incorporate the words of the psalmists or the lyrics of your favorite worship songs into your prayers. Create a dynamic prayer routine that challenges you, opens your heart to God’s leading, and works for your personality and your circumstances. Discover how prayer can change your life. Reflection question: How would you describe your prayer habits? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. [NLT]

In this episode, Christian Ann Larson—therapist, pastor, and co-leader of North City Church—teaches on what it means to live with a conscious dependence on the Holy Spirit. She explores how our daily habits, routines, and relationships reveal what (or who) we truly depend on—and invites us to reimagine dependence as something holy, not weak.Through stories, humor, and reflection on John 14, Christian Ann helps us see that dependence on the Spirit brings peace of mind and heart, not restriction. Drawing from her experience as both a therapist and follower of Jesus, she contrasts cultural ideals of independence with the interdependence modeled by the Trinity itself—Father, Son, and Spirit.You'll also hear a few funny moments (including one involving getting lost in northern Wisconsin without Google Maps!) and guided reflection questions to help you pause and notice the Spirit's presence in your own life.Key Themes:Rethinking dependence vs. independenceJesus' promise of the Holy Spirit (John 14)The Spirit as Advocate, Comforter, and GuidePractical ways to create space for the Spirit's voiceInterdependence as the design of God's peoplePeace as a sign of being led by the SpiritReflection Questions:What or who do you find yourself depending on most these days?How might those dependencies be shaping your sense of peace?Where can you create space to listen to the Spirit this week?Scripture Reference: John 14:15–27 (NLT)

It's all about Pete Alonso on today's NLT as we talk to Elizabeth Cosin about her Substack column "In Defense of Pete Alonso". Plus, we open an all-Pete NLT Mailbag! Join us! #Mets #LGM

A HEART LIKE HIS Jonah 4 Gordon Dabbs, PhD When we last saw Jonah, he had just delivered the MOST successful sermon in history. Revival breaks out across the entire city. The twist: instead of throwing a celebration, the preacher is throwing a fit. Jonah 4.1 (ESV) But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was angry. Why was Jonah furious? NOT because his message flopped… but because it worked. Jonah 4.2-3 (NLT) So he complained to the Lord about it: “Didn't I say before I left home that you would do this, Lord? That is why I ran away to Tarshish! I knew that you are a merciful and compassionate God, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. You are eager to turn back from destroying people. Just kill me now, Lord! I'd rather be dead than alive if what I predicted will not happen.” The one time in Scripture someone gets mad at God for being too nice. Jonah 4.6 (NLT) And the Lord God arranged for a leafy plant to grow there, and soon it spread its broad leaves over Jonah's head, shading him from the sun. This eased his discomfort, and Jonah was very grateful for the plant. Next morning: plant is dead, shade is gone, sun is back. Jonah is back to being furious: “I'm so angry I wish I were dead" (v8). Jonah 4.10-11 (NLT) Then the Lord said, “You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there. It came quickly and died quickly. But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn't I feel sorry for such a great city?” We never find out how Jonah responds. God ends the conversation. We're left realizing the question isn't just for Jonah. It's for us. 3 Take-Homes. . . 1. Sometimes God lets our “plants” die to teach us what really matters. Comfort fades. Compassion endures. 2. Grace always feels unfair—at least until you remember you're one of its recipients. 3. We can't love God deeply without learning to love who He loves. “We show compassion to our neighbors not because they deserve it, and not because it's technically possible they might deserve it. We show compassion because Christ had compassion on us when we did not deserve it.” ~ Alan Noble Jonah's book is not flattering. But it helps us see ourselves… and that's the beginning of transformation.Subscribe to PRESTONCREST - with Gordon Dabbs on Soundwise

A HEART LIKE HIS Jonah 4 Gordon Dabbs, PhD When we last saw Jonah, he had just delivered the MOST successful sermon in history. Revival breaks out across the entire city. The twist: instead of throwing a celebration, the preacher is throwing a fit. Jonah 4.1 (ESV) But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was angry. Why was Jonah furious? NOT because his message flopped… but because it worked. Jonah 4.2-3 (NLT) So he complained to the Lord about it: “Didn't I say before I left home that you would do this, Lord? That is why I ran away to Tarshish! I knew that you are a merciful and compassionate God, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. You are eager to turn back from destroying people. Just kill me now, Lord! I'd rather be dead than alive if what I predicted will not happen.” The one time in Scripture someone gets mad at God for being too nice. Jonah 4.6 (NLT) And the Lord God arranged for a leafy plant to grow there, and soon it spread its broad leaves over Jonah's head, shading him from the sun. This eased his discomfort, and Jonah was very grateful for the plant. Next morning: plant is dead, shade is gone, sun is back. Jonah is back to being furious: “I'm so angry I wish I were dead" (v8). Jonah 4.10-11 (NLT) Then the Lord said, “You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there. It came quickly and died quickly. But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn't I feel sorry for such a great city?” We never find out how Jonah responds. God ends the conversation. We're left realizing the question isn't just for Jonah. It's for us. 3 Take-Homes. . . 1. Sometimes God lets our “plants” die to teach us what really matters. Comfort fades. Compassion endures. 2. Grace always feels unfair—at least until you remember you're one of its recipients. 3. We can't love God deeply without learning to love who He loves. “We show compassion to our neighbors not because they deserve it, and not because it's technically possible they might deserve it. We show compassion because Christ had compassion on us when we did not deserve it.” ~ Alan Noble Jonah's book is not flattering. But it helps us see ourselves… and that's the beginning of transformation.Subscribe to PRESTONCREST - with Gordon Dabbs on Soundwise

Transformative Truth: You can expectantly trust God's deliverance! "Old Testament historical narrative is 'a declaration from God about God' (Alec Motyer)..." - Dale Ralph Davis I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed. Genesis 12:3 Transformative Truth: You can expectantly trust God's deliverance! I want you to fully believe in God's deliverance, which changes everything Esther 8:1-2 I want you to fully rest in God's deliverance, which is sometimes veiled behind human decisions and actions Esther 8:3-12 People of Israel, listen! God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. But God knew what would happen, and his prearranged plan was carried out when Jesus was betrayed. With the help of lawless Gentiles, you nailed him to a cross and killed him. So let everyone in Israel know for certain that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, to be both Lord and Messiah! Acts 2:22-23, 36, NLT I want you to fully delight in God's deliverance, which brings freedom and joy. Esther 8:13-17 The Jews were filled with joy and gladness and were honored everywhere. Esther 8:16, NLT The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Matthew 1:1 For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives. Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was. Romans 6:3-5, NLT

Today's message of Pastor Micah's "Throwing Rocks at Giants" message series is from scripture Acts 27:18-25 NLT

If we belong to God, we're meant to care about the things He cares about and respond the way He would respond. Key Scriptures: Jonah 1:17, 2:10, 3:10, 4:2-4,9-11 HCSB; 1 Corinthians 4:4 NLT; John 8:34 NLT; Ephesians 2:1 NLT; 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 NLT Connect with us & let us know you are listening and how we can pray for you... https://www.pursuitnazarene.org/online-connection-card

Like most of us, I like to think I'm basically a “good guy”. I try and do the right thing by people most of the time in my own mind. And this is pretty common for all of us in 21 st century life; we assume that all people are basically good, that our kids are naturally good, even our pets! But something hit earlier in the year as I prepared for Good Shepherd Chapel - something profound that stretches all the way back to the Protestant Reformation - life is like an arcade game… Pastor Stephen Abraham Bible Reading: Psalm 51.1-5 (NLT) and Romans 7.14-25 (NLT)

Forgive UsWhat bread is to our body, forgiveness is to our souls.  It nourishes spiritual health, freedom, and life. That's why King David wrote “Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven!” (Psalm 32:1, NLT). It's also why confession is part of the prayer Jesus taught His followers to pray. Join us as we continue in our sermon series “Teach Us To Pray.”  

“Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.” (Romans 15:4 NLT) You will not find the hope that you need in people or things. You will not find it in a politician or political cause, no matter which side of the aisle you’re on. You will not find it in technology or science or in a relationship or in an accomplishment. Job 8:13–15 says, “The hopes of the godless evaporate. Their confidence hangs by a thread. They are leaning on a spider’s web. They cling to their home for security, but it won’t last. They try to hold it tight, but it will not endure” (NLT). In contrast, Psalm 42:5 says, “Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God!” (NLT). This is the hope that gives us the strength to go on in life. This hope is not wishful thinking or blind optimism. It is quiet confidence. It is a supernatural certainty. We find this hope in the pages of Scripture. True and lasting hope comes from God and His Word. The apostle Paul wrote, “Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled” (Romans 15:4 NLT). Psalm 119:114 says, “You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope” (NLT). So, if hope seems in short supply in your life, you can replenish it by spending time in God’s Word. There will be times when you need to replenish because things don’t always work out well in this life. Not all marriages survive. Not all prodigal children return. Not all medical tests have benign results. Not all crises end happily. That’s when you need to embrace the reality that whatever happens in this life, be it wonderful or painful, is only temporary. We make so much of this life because it’s the only one we’ve known. But it comes and goes rather quickly. First Chronicles 29:15 says, “We are here for only a moment, visitors and strangers in the land as our ancestors were before us. Our days on earth are like a passing shadow, gone so soon without a trace” (NLT). Heaven—our ultimate hope—is forever. In Heaven, God will right all wrongs. He will answer all questions. He will ease all pain. He will replace our tears with laughter and joy. In Heaven, our losses will be more than compensated for. That’s why Paul wrote, “Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth” (Colossians 3:1–2 NLT). Heaven is where our ultimate hope is found, so Heaven is where our thoughts should be when we struggle here on earth. Reflection question: What would setting your sights on the realities of Heaven look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(Bilingual) このメッセージではモンティー牧師が「大切なことを大切にしよう : イエスを一番にする」について以下の３つのポイントから話します。ディスカッション用の質問はノートの最後に確認できます。In this message Ps Monty talks about “KEEP THE MAIN THING THE MAIN THING: JESUS” in these 3 points:Check the questions for discussion at the end of the note. Luke 10:38-42 NLT / ルカ10:38-42 ERVPsalm 100:2 KJV / 詩篇 100:2 新改訳2017Matthew 6:33-34 NIV / マタイ6:33-34 ERVHebrews 12:2 NLT / へブル 12:2 JCBPhilippians 4: 6-7 NLT / ピリピ 4:6-7 ERV1.WITH OUR TIME 時間の使い方でも2.PUT JESUS FIRSTイエスを最優先にする3.DON'T GET DISTRACTED 気を取られないようにするQUESTIONS(質問) : ・Why do you think Jesus said Mary made the right choice?・What are some things that can distract us from putting Jesus first?・How can thankfulness help us keep our eyes on Jesus?・This week, what is one way you can show that Jesus is your first priority?・どうしてイエスはマリアが正しい選択をしたと言ったと思いますか？・イエスを一番にするのを邪魔するものには、どんなものがありますか？・感謝の気持ちは、どのようにイエスに目を向け続ける助けになりますか？・今週、イエスが一番だということを示すためにできる行動をひとつ教えてください。 Connect with us:Web: mylifehouse.comInstagram: instagram.com/lifehouseglobal/Facebook: facebook.com/lifehouseglobalVideo Messages: ビデオメッセージ: youtube.com/LifehouseTokyoOther Podcasts:Want to listen to our messages in other languages?Lifehouse Messages (English): https://lifehousemessages.captivate.fm/listenLifehouse Hong Kong (Cantonese & English): https://lifehousehongkong.captivate.fm/listen

OCT. 24, 2025How to pray for your children."Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord...Jesus Christ." 2Pe 3:18 NKJVThe Bible says, "In the last days will come... times of great stress and trouble [hard to deal with and hard to bear]" (2Ti 3:1 AMPC). We don't have to look far to see that Scripture fulfilled. It's why we need to pray for the physical and spiritual safety of our children; that they may "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord...Jesus Christ." Heather Riggleman writes: "As you and I watch the news, we weep, we cry out in anger, and then we wonder, 'How can we protect our kids...?' We wonder if it's safe to send [them] out the front door. We question whether the world is falling apart. And nothing is more terrifying than the realization that we cannot protect them from life. While we cannot hide our children away from the world, we can...shield them in far greater ways than wrapping them in a plastic bubble or locking them in their rooms for the rest of their lives...We can intercede for [them], praying for wisdom, protection, peace, and strength." Remember, wherever we are gathered and praying, Jesus is in our midst (See Mt 18:19-20). Paul said, "Put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil...Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers" (Eph 6:13, 18 NLT). When you pray like that, God is bound to honor His Word. Keep covering your kids in prayer—and don't give up no matter how bad things in the world get.How to pray for your children Keep covering your kids in prayer.Share This DevotionalSend us a textSupport the showChanging Lives | Building Strong Family | Impacting Our Community For Jesus Christ!

OCT. 21, 2025God can accelerate His plan for your life."You have kept the good wine until now!" Jn 2:10 NKJVJesus' first miracle was turning water into wine at a wedding reception. There were six waterpots, each capable of holding thirty gallons. First, He said, "Fill those pots with water." Next, He said, "Take some out and bring it to the host of the party." When the host tasted it, he told the groom, "This is amazing. Everyone serves the best wine first, and after people have had a lot to drink, they bring out the less expensive wine. But you have saved the best wine for last" (See vv. 7-10 NLT). Do you know how long it takes to make wine? It begins with planting seeds, then takes several years for the vines to grow mature grapes. Then they have to be picked and processed to produce the wine. It often takes three to five years before the first wine is ready to be bottled. The better-quality wine takes five to seven years to make. And people consider the best wine to be twenty to thirty years old. Jesus produced in a moment in time what normally takes decades to produce. So if you're concerned that you don't have enough time to achieve your goals, remember that Jesus can do in a moment what might usually take years. Maybe it would typically take you twenty years to pay off your mortgage, or ten years to build your business.But God's favor can thrust you years down the road. He still turns water into wine. Be encouraged, the God we serve knows how to accelerate natural laws. He can take you further, quicker than you can ever imagine.God can accelerate His plan for your life Jesus can do in a moment what usually takes years.Share This DevotionalSend us a textSupport the showChanging Lives | Building Strong Family | Impacting Our Community For Jesus Christ!

STAND   Week 4: Stand in Prayer and Perseverance Ephesians 6:18-20 NLT “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God's mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God's ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should.” I. Prayer Keeps You Connected to the Source “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion.” —Ephesians 6:18 NLT "Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing." — John 15:4-5 (NLT) 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NLT): "Never stop praying." II. Prayer Keeps You Spiritually Awake “Stay alert…” —Ephesians 6:18 “Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!”Matthew 26:41 (NLT) III. Prayer Is a Weapon for Others, Not Just Yourself “…and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere” —Ephesians 6:18 James 5:16 (NLT) “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” Galatians 6:2 (NLT) Share each other's burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. IV. Prayer Fuels Boldness in the Mission Ephesians 6:19 (NLT) “And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God's mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike.” James 5:16 (NLT) “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.” Colossians 4:2 (NLT) “Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.” Think About It.  How does your current prayer life reflect the idea of staying connected to God as your source of strength and guidance? In what areas of your life do you need to be more spiritually awake and alert? How can prayer help sharpen your awareness? Who are three people in your life that need your prayers right now? How can you stand in the gap for them through intercession? Reflect on a time when prayer fueled boldness in your mission. How did it impact your courage and actions? What practical steps will you take this week to build a consistent rhythm of prayer and persevere in it, not only for yourself but also for others? For more information about Middle River Assembly of God visit https://middleriverag.org/ To help support the mission of Middle River Assembly of God, please go to our new giving platform https://tithe.ly/give?c=4877442 CCLI Copyright License # 1013363 CCLI Streaming License # 20006236 Thank you for your support. Middle River Assembly of God 9620 Bird River Rd. Middle River, MD 21220 MiddleRiverAG@Gmail.com FB.com/MiddleRiverAG 410-391-7993 Links Website Facebook Twitter Instagram https://tithe.ly/give?c=4877442 Find out more at https://love-connect-grow-serve-sermon.pinecast.co This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

“I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children are following the truth.” (3 John 1:4 NLT) When I was young, I had a parakeet named Popcorn. He was a fantastic bird. I would stand a few feet away from his cage, open the little door, and call his name, and he would fly and land on my shoulder. I would walk around the house with him on my shoulder. One day on Balboa Island, I saw a guy walking around with a parrot on his shoulder. So, I went home, put Popcorn on my shoulder, and walked outside. Popcorn flew off, and I never saw him again. It’s one thing to lose a parakeet, but it’s quite another to lose a child. When my son Jonathan was about five years old, he got in a hotel elevator before I could get to it. I almost had a heart attack as the doors closed between us. I waited for what seemed like hours for the next elevator. I started at the lobby and searched every floor until I found him. Parenting is an awesome responsibility. And one of the greatest joys of Christian parents is seeing our kids walk with the Lord. The apostle John wrote, “I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children are following the truth” (3 John 1:4 NLT). When kids are young, they’re receptive to our leading. They’re compliant and, for the most part, obedient. As they get older, especially when they enter their teenage years, they start to push back and think for themselves. Sometimes they start to question their faith. If that’s happened in your family, don’t panic. Solomon wrote, “Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him” (Psalm 127:3 NLT). Children are a gift. We don’t own them. They belong to God. They are not ours to mold but to unfold. To nurture and to raise in the way of the Lord. The apostle Paul offers some direction in Ephesians 6:4: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord” (NLT). One way to provoke children is to show favoritism. Another is to withhold affirmation and compliments. We bring them up by choosing the right path for ourselves—by walking the walk. We do it by spending a lot of time with them, helping them understand the things of God in our daily interactions. We do it by instilling in them a Christian worldview that will serve them in the world outside your door. Proverbs 22:6 says, “Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it” (NLT). In other words, create a thirst for spiritual things in your child. If your children follow that path for their entire lives, you can thank God for it. If they don’t, however, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re a failure as a parent. The parable of the prodigal son teaches us that a seemingly worst-case scenario can result in a child making a deeper commitment to the Lord. As parents, we must stay true to our beliefs. And we must never give up on our kids. We can’t see their spiritual journey. Only God can do that. But we can be ready when that journey leads them back to us. Reflection question: What encouragement would you offer to the parent of a prodigal child? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. [NLT]

“For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!” (2 Corinthians 4:17 NLT) It’s a day like any other. You get out of bed. You take a shower. You brush your teeth. You eat breakfast. You read your Bible and pray. You commit your day to the Lord. And then it happens. A visit from a police officer who tells you there’s been an accident. A call from a doctor who informs you that you need to come in immediately because of something he found in your test. A note from your spouse who says they’re done with your marriage. A pain in your body that you’ve never felt before. Crisis hits hard and fast. Job’s world came crashing down in one day. An impulsive act by his brothers changed the course of Joseph’s life. When crisis hits, the natural tendency is to look inward and ask, “How am I going to get through this? Is there any hope for me?” But a better—and, admittedly, much more difficult—option is to look for opportunity in the midst of crisis. God allows adversity and crisis in our lives for important reasons. If we focus on those reasons, we can grow spiritually, even in the worst of circumstances. One reason God allows adversity is to keep us humble. Prosperity and success tend to make people proud and self-sufficient. We lose sight of our need for God. Adversity and crisis remind us just how much we need Him. God allows adversity to teach us eternal truths that we would not otherwise learn. The faith that cannot be tested is a faith that cannot be trusted. God wants us to toughen up and mature as believers. Adversity helps accomplish that. Adversity gives us a new compassion for others who are in pain. Paul wrote, “He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us” (2 Corinthians 1:4 NLT). When you endure adversity, you’re positioned to help others endure it. You can help them navigate the difficult terrain. You can offer specific encouragement. You can say, “I’ve been through this. Here’s what I did. Let me pray for you.” It’s essential that we keep our adversity in perspective. Paul wrote, “For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!” (2 Corinthians 4:17 NLT). Instead of focusing on the troubles we see now, we must focus on the joys to come that will last forever. God’s people are better off eternally because they suffer temporarily. Adversity ultimately brings us closer to God. Psalm 46:1–3 says, “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!” (NLT). No matter what shape our adversity takes, God will walk with us through it. Reflection question: When have you experienced God’s presence in the midst of a crisis? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Then Jesus wept.” (John 11:35 NLT) Jesus arrived at the home of Martha and Mary four days after their brother Lazarus died. The mourners were consumed by grief. Jesus’ plan all along was to raise Lazarus from the dead—to demonstrate His power and give His followers hope in the resurrection. So, His reaction in John 11:35—the shortest verse in the Bible—is telling: “Then Jesus wept” (NLT). Jesus weeps with us in our time of pain. Jesus was God with all His power and glory. But He was also a man—a man who felt our pain and sorrows. Isaiah 53:3 says, “He was despised and rejected—a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief” (NLT). Hebrews 2:17–18 explains why. “Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested” (NLT). If something breaks your heart, it breaks His heart as well. But sadness wasn’t the only emotion He experienced. John 11:33 says, “When Jesus saw her weeping and saw the other people wailing with her, a deep anger welled up within him, and he was deeply troubled” (NLT). He wasn’t angry at the mourners; He was angry at death. Death and suffering are aberrations. They were not part of God’s original plan. They were part of the curse after mankind’s Fall. That’s what Jesus was angry about. Jesus demonstrated His power over death by bringing Lazarus back to life. And God was glorified. The obvious takeaway is that God is glorified when an affliction is removed. So, if you’re healed from an illness or declared cancer-free, praise Him for it. Celebrate the fact that He is ultimately in control. Sometimes, though, the surgery doesn’t go as hoped. Sometimes the illness isn’t healed. Sometimes the problem isn’t taken away. And here’s the not-so-obvious takeaway: God can be glorified through the enduring of an affliction as well. The apostle Paul wrote, “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment” (Romans 5:3–5 NLT). Hope comes through hardship. When a Christian suffers and still glorifies God, it reassures others that there will never be a valley so deep that God will not get us through it. It also reminds us that physical death is not the end; it’s just a change in the state of existence. The tomb is the entrance to life. Heaven is the earthly life of the believer, glorified and perfected. When believers die, they go into God’s presence. That is the ultimate hope. Put your hope in God. He will never let you down. Reflection question: When have you seen God glorified by the endurance of an affliction? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“The people who were standing nearby said, ‘See how much he loved him!’” (John 11:36 NLT) Mary, Martha, and Lazarus were siblings and friends of Jesus. When Lazarus got deathly ill, Mary and Martha sent a message to Jesus: “Lord, your dear friend is very sick” (John 11:3 NLT). Theirs is a story of hope, although that’s not immediately apparent in the biblical narrative. In our last devotion, we saw that the first takeaway from the story is that life involves pain, sorrow, and death. The second takeaway is spelled out by Lazarus’ mourners in verse 36: “See how much he loved him!” (NLT). The Lord loves us. God describes His love in Jeremiah 31:3: “I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself” (NLT). Whatever God does or allows to happen in our lives is motivated by His everlasting love for us. Mary and Martha knew that Jesus loved them—and that He loved Lazarus. That’s why they sent for Him. They reacted perfectly when crisis hit. They took their troubles to Jesus. Look at the basis for their appeal. They didn’t say, “Lord, You owe us. We fed You. You and Your friends crashed at our house.” They didn’t base their appeal on their love for Him; they based it on His love for them: “Lord, your dear friend is very sick.” Our love is fickle; it fluctuates. The Lord’s love for us never changes. John 11:5–­6 reveals Jesus’ response to Mary and Martha’s message. “So although Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, he stayed where he was for the next two days” (NLT). When Jesus finally arrived, things were bleak. Lazarus was no longer sick; he was dead—and had been for four days. His body was decomposing. Not only did Jesus not heal His friend, but He also missed the funeral. If that seems like a less-than-loving response, it’s because we can’t grasp the depth of the Lord’s love. Jesus wanted Mary and Martha to see the bigger picture. He wanted them to understand that because they trusted in Him, death was no longer their enemy. He wanted them to embrace the hope of resurrection. Neither Martha nor Mary could see the big picture at first, so they focused on the smaller picture—on what seemed like Jesus’ callous disregard. Both sisters confronted Jesus with the words, “Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died” (verses 21, 32 NLT). Again, they took their problems to Jesus. And that’s what you need to do when suffering and trials come your way. Some people say, “Don’t ever ask God why.” I say ask God “why” as much as you want. Just don’t always expect an answer. Be honest with Him when you pray. Say, “God, I’m not happy right now. I don’t understand this. I’m hurting. This doesn’t make sense. Why did You let this happen?” Jesus Himself said from the cross, “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?” (Matthew 27:46 NLT). In the end, though, we live on promises, not explanations. Along with asking “why,” we should ask “what”—as in, what am I supposed to do? The answer is, turn to the Lord with your pain and grief because He loves you. Reflection question: When do you need to be reminded of God’s love for you? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who is the devil? What does he do and which strategies does he use the most? In this message, Lead Pastor Jamie Nunnally shares part 2 of our "Not Today, Satan" series as we learn about our enemy. Revelation 12:7-9 (NLT): Then there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon... the dragon lost... This great dragon—the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan... was thrown down to the earth with all his angels.Satan – Hebrew: "adversary" or "opponent"Devil – Greek: "slanderer" or "accuser"Possible references in Ezekiel 28 and Isaiah 14 suggest Satan's former name was Lucifer and that he was beautiful, possibly musical. These verses address earthly kings but seem to also hint at a supernatural being behind them.What we know for sure:Satan is a fallen angel. He can't read minds, isn't everywhere at once, and isn't God's equal. He's a created being who got fired for insubordination.The Bible says:1 John 5:19: The world is under the control of the evil one.John 12:31: Satan is the ruler of this world.Ephesians 2:2: "Prince of the power of the air"—he works through culture, not oxygen.He can't make you sin but makes sin look good.Satan's Four Tactics:Deception 2 Corinthians 11:14: Satan disguises as an angel of light. John 8:44: He's the father of lies. In Eden, he didn't force Eve—he questioned truth. His lies sound logical but are lethal. Scripture silences the serpent.Accusation Revelation 12:10: He's the "accuser of the brethren." Romans 8:1: No condemnation in Christ. Satan attacks identity to rob you of authority. Don't echo hell's accusations against others.Intimidation 1 Peter 5:8: The devil prowls like a roaring lion. 1 John 4:18: Perfect love casts out fear. He can't stop God's plan, but fear might.Temptation 1 Thessalonians 3:5: He's the tempter. 1 Corinthians 10:13: God always provides a way out. Temptation offers a shortcut to a legitimate need. Confess temptations—not just sins—to resist better.The Devil is DefeatedLuke 10:18-19: Jesus saw Satan fall and gave us authority.Matt. 25:41: Hell is his final destination—not ours. You follow the one who led your life.Your Battle Plan:James 4:7: Submit to God. Resist the devil.He'll still lie, accuse, roar, and tempt—but stand firm.Ephesians 6:11: Put on God's armor and stand.La Jument LighthouseThis French lighthouse didn't stop the storm—but it didn't move.Isaiah 59:19: "When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard..."When Satan attacks—just say: "Not today, Satan."Are you standing firm against Satan?

“So the two sisters sent a message to Jesus telling him, ‘Lord, your dear friend is very sick.’” (John 11:3 NLT) In our next series of devotions, we’re going to talk about hope for people in difficult circumstances. And we’re going to start with hope for people who have lost loved ones. What I’m going to share doesn’t come from an ivory tower of theory. It comes from the valley of the shadow of death, where I’ve personally found the hope promised to us in Scripture. Psalm 119:114 says, “You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope” (NLT). Romans 15:4 says, “Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled” (NLT). It’s been said that man can live forty days without food, three days without water, eight minutes without air, and about one second without hope. We all need hope in life to get through. To have hope doesn’t mean that you have a smile permanently plastered on your face. Nor does it mean that you’ve had some kind of spiritual lobotomy so that you don’t feel what other people feel. Nor does it mean that you have a naive expectation that things will get better. The grim reality is that things can get worse. Our hope is not in circumstances but in God. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the Lord. ‘They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope’” (NLT). In other words, there will be an outcome, a completion in your life. God will tie up the loose ends—if not in this world, then in the next. John 11 tells the story of people who had lost hope after the death of a loved one. Mary, Martha, and Lazarus were siblings and friends of Jesus. When Lazarus got deathly ill, Mary and Martha sent a message to Jesus: “Lord, your dear friend is very sick” (John 11:3 NLT). We’ll be looking at lessons from this story in the next few devotions, but I want to start with the obvious one. Life involves pain, sorrow, and death. Some people try to convince themselves that they’re going to make it through life unscathed, without experiencing a major devastation or illness and without losing a loved one. The Bible suggests otherwise. The apostle Peter wrote, “Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you” (1 Peter 4:12 NLT). Don’t be surprised. It happens to everyone, and it’s going to happen to you. Jesus said, “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows” (John 16:33 NLT). Mortality will rear its head. It may start with the death of your grandparents. And then your parents. And so on. Through it all, though, you have hope—if your hope is in God. He promises Heaven, where there are no trials or sorrows. Reflection question: What does hope in God look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Better Together"2 Timothy 1:1-7Guest Pastor Ray McQueen of Family Life Church in Lynchburg, VAOctober 19, 2025Renovations have begun on our new church building!https://www.oasischurch.online/futureHow to VOTE BIBLICALLY - highlighting Virginia's proposed Constitutional amendments on Abortion & Marriage https://youtu.be/Y8z8xTFsOn8How should Christians respond to wickedness in the world? https://youtu.be/2OJUIM9YRwAShould Christians pay attention to POLITICS? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak82aD16r04SERMON NOTES:2 Timothy 1:1-7- Connect  Commune   Communicate - Divine Relationships will shift your life when you are open.- 3 Reasons Why We Are Better Together  - 1. Because We Need One Another  - Relationships account for 80% of happiness.  - Acts 16:22-26 NLT  - Ecclesiastes 4:8-12 NLT  - 2. Because you are loved and cared for.  - Romans 12:15 NIV  - Mark 10:29-30 NKJV  - Galatians 6:10 TPT  - 3. Because we receive a word from the Lord from the same fountain.  - I Peter 2:2 TPT  - 2 Corinthians 4:13 NKJVOasis Church exists to Worship God, Equip the believers, and Reach the lost.We are led by Pastor Nate Clarke and are located in Richmond, VA.Stay Connected:Website: https://oasischurch.online Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oasischurchva/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OasisChurchRVA/

The opening words of Matthew's Gospel are translated as, “An account of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah” (NRSV), or “This is the genealogy . . .” (NIV), or “This is a record of the ancestors . . .” (NLT). A comparison with the parallels in Genesis and a look at what Matthew actually composes suggest that Matthew had something else in mind. David Capes, formerly Dean of Biblical & Theological Studies at Wheaton College, is the host of Exegetically Speaking and the Director of Academic Programming at the Lanier Theological Library & Learning Center, which sponsors this podcast series along with Wheaton College. His publications include The Divine Christ: Paul, the Lord Jesus, and the Scriptures of Israel. B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/47eidS5  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4hc5Omd 

Worldly comforts can vanish quickly, but the soul anchored in God is secure. Key Scriptures: Jonah 3:10 – 4:11 NLT, 2 Corinthians 1:3b NLT, 2 Corinthians 1:4-7 NLT Connect with us & let us know you are listening and how we can pray for you... https://www.pursuitnazarene.org/online-connection-card

Philippians 1:12 - Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. (NIV) 1. Paul’s problems didn’t stop his mission; they propelled his mission. Philippians 1:12 - Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me… (NIV) 2 Corinthians 11:25 – Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea (NIV) 2 Corinthians 11:26 - I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers.  (NIV) 2 Corinthians 11:27 I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights. I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm. (NLT) Philippians 1:12-14 - Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 - Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (NIV) 2. Paul used his earthly trials to give people heavenly hope 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 - For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.  20 To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law, I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. 21 To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law.  22 To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. 23 I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings. (ESV) Philippians 1:12-13 - Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters,[b] that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.  13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. (NIV) Philippians 4:7 - And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (NIV) Philippians 4:21-22 - Greet all God’s people in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings. 22 All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household. (NIV)

You don't get in shape by accident—and the same is true for your spiritual and emotional health. In this powerful message, Pastor Talaat McNeely unpacks “The Workout Plan” from Philippians 3:12–14 (NLT) and shows us how intentional rhythms can strengthen our souls and draw us closer to Christ.With a blend of practical wisdom, biblical depth, and real-life application, Pastor Talaat lays out four essential steps for a healthy spiritual workout:Strengthen Your Core – Keep Christ at the center of every rhythm.Fuel Your Training – Let God's Word shape and stabilize your emotions.Steady the Weight – Anchor your life in worship and gratitude.Follow the Program – Surrender every rhythm of your life under the lordship of Jesus.This message will challenge you to stop “winging it” in your walk with God and start training with purpose. Whether you're feeling spiritually scattered, emotionally drained, or simply hungry for more of Christ, The Workout Plan gives you the practical tools and biblical encouragement you need to grow stronger, steadier, and more like Jesus.

What does it look like to truly live for Christ in everyday life? In this episode, we explore Philippians 2:19-30, where the Apostle Paul highlights three individuals—Timothy, Epaphroditus, and himself—who model authentic gospel character. Their lives reveal three essential marks of what it means to follow Jesus with your whole heart.Discover why gospel character is selfless in service, faithful in struggles, and honors those who serve like Christ. Whether you're navigating a difficult season, wondering how to serve others better, or simply wanting to grow in Christlikeness, this message will challenge and encourage you.IN THIS EPISODE:The difference between selfless service and self-centered livingHow Timothy genuinely cared about others' welfare (Philippians 2:20-21)Why Epaphroditus' near-death experience reveals faithful gospel characterWhat it means to persevere when ministry becomes costlyWhy we must honor those who sacrifice for Christ's missionDr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s perspective on true characterPractical ways to develop gospel character in your daily lifeKEY SCRIPTURES EXPLORED:Philippians 1:21 (NIV)Philippians 2:19-30 (NLT)Mark 10:42-45 (NLT)2 Corinthians 4:8-10 (NLT)Romans 12:9-10 (NLT)REFLECTION QUESTIONS:Who in your life models genuine, selfless care for others like Timothy did?When have you faced a costly situation where you had to choose between comfort and faithfulness?Who in your church or community deserves honor for their Christ-like service?Which of the three marks of gospel character do you most need to develop right now?NEXT STEPS:✅ Identify one person you can serve this week without expecting anything in return ✅ Thank someone who has modeled sacrificial service in your life ✅ Commit to remaining faithful in whatever struggle you're currently facing ✅ Subscribe to Weekend Messages at Grand Point Church for more biblical teachingFEATURED QUOTE:"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. The true neighbor will risk his position, his prestige, and even his life for the welfare of others." - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.CONNECT WITH GRAND POINT CHURCH:Website: grandpoint.churchFacebook: www.facebook.com/grandpointchurchInstagram: @grandpointchurchGive: grandpoint.church/give/ways-to-give/SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If this message encouraged you, please subscribe to Weekend Messages at Grand Point Church on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review. Your feedback helps others discover practical, biblical teaching for everyday life.Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and everywhere podcasts are found.TAGS: #Philippians #GospelCharacter #ChristianLiving #ChurchPodcast #BibleTeaching #SelflessService #FaithfulInStruggles #ToLiveIsChrist #WeekendMessage #SpiritualGrowth #BiblicalWisdom #ChristianPodcast #FaithPodcast #ChurchSermonConnect with us at www.grandpoint.church/nextstepsWatch online on YouTubeFollow us on Facebook and InstagramSign up for our free weekly newsletter

2 Corinthians 9:8 EHV“God is able to make all grace OVERFLOW to you, so that in ALL THINGS at all times, having ALL that you need, you will OVERFLOW in every good work.”Key #1What Moves Jesus, Multiplies through JesusJohn 6:5 NLT“When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, ‘Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?'”Key #2Faith doesn't Count, it TrustsJohn 6:7–9 NLT“Philip answered him, ‘It would take more than half a year's wages to buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!' Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up, ‘Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?'”Key #3From Leftovers to LegacyJohn 6:12-13 NIV“When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, ‘Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.' So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.”

“When Jesus arrived on the other side of the lake, in the region of the Gadarenes, two men who were possessed by demons met him. They came out of the tombs and were so violent that no one could go through that area. They began screaming at him, “Why are you interfering with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torture us before God’s appointed time?” There happened to be a large herd of pigs feeding in the distance. So the demons begged, “If you cast us out, send us into that herd of pigs.” “All right, go!” Jesus commanded them. So the demons came out of the men and entered the pigs, and the whole herd plunged down the steep hillside into the lake and drowned in the water. The herdsmen fled to the nearby town, telling everyone what happened to the demon-possessed men. Then the entire town came out to meet Jesus, but they begged him to go away and leave them alone.” (Matthew 8:28–34, NLT)

2025-10-19 Time of Testimonyby Pastor Chris BergScripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:12-1312 Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!All are welcome. 217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448(985) 626-3114Sunday Service: 9:30AMAdult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AMNursery and Children's church available.

“Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed amazing miracles and signs among the people.” (Acts 6:8 NLT) The Bible gives us several different examples of well-lived lives. One is found in Acts 6, in the story of Stephen, the first known Christian martyr. Though he did not live long, Stephen demonstrated several qualities that are necessary for a well-lived life—qualities that allowed him to be used powerfully by God. First, he had a good reputation. Acts 6:3 says that Stephen was selected to lead a ministry because he was “well respected.” He had personal integrity. He fit the apostle Paul’s description in 1 Timothy 3:6–7: “A church leader must not be a new believer, because he might become proud, and the devil would cause him to fall. Also, people outside the church must speak well of him so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the devil’s trap” (NLT). A well-lived life is marked by a good reputation. Second, he was “full of faith and the Holy Spirit” (Acts 6:5 NLT). Stephen lived a Spirit-controlled life. He yielded to the working of the Holy Spirit every day. A well-lived life is one that faithfully follows the Holy Spirit’s leading. Third, he was filled with wisdom, according to verse 3. We see his wisdom on display in Acts 7 as he quotes from Scripture in presenting the gospel to the Jewish Sanhedrin, the Jewish high council. Keep in mind that it’s possible to have knowledge and not wisdom. There are many very learned people who lack wisdom. They are unable to translate their knowledge into God-honoring application. A well-lived life is one that prioritizes wisdom. Fourth, he was faithful in the little things. He diligently performed the tasks that were set before him without considering whether the jobs were “beneath him.” He was willing to humble himself and do whatever was necessary to accomplish God’s work. You can never be too small for God to use. Only too big. If you say, “I’m willing to do whatever you want me to do, Lord, and I will be faithful in that,” you’ll be amazed at what God will accomplish through you. A well-lived life starts at the bottom, from a human perspective. Fifth, he looked for opportunities and seized them. Stephen was arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin. He was accused of blasphemy, but his real crime was serving the Lord faithfully. He surely understood that his life hung in the balance. But Stephen saw an opportunity to speak the gospel truth to people who needed to hear it. So, he seized the moment and delivered one of the most powerful sermons recorded in Scripture. The consequences didn’t matter to him; what mattered was the opportunity to serve Christ and share His message. A well-lived life is one in which opportunities are recognized and seized upon. Luke, the author of Acts, described Stephen as being “full of God’s grace and power” (Acts 6:8 NLT). That is also the ideal description of a well-lived life. Reflection question: Which quality of Stephen do you most want to strengthen in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

STAND ** Week 3: Stand Ready for Battle** "For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." — Ephesians 6:15-17 (NLT) I. Wear the Shoes of Readiness—Be Grounded in the Gospel “...For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.” —Ephesians 6:15 "Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us." — Romans 5:1 (NLT) "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns!" — Isaiah 52:7 (NLT) II. Take Up the Shield of Faith—Block the Flaming Arrows “In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.” — Ephesians 6:16 "For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith." — 1 John 5:4 (NLT) "But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you." — Psalm 56:3 (NLT) III. Put on the Helmet of Salvation—Guard Your Mind “Put on salvation as your helmet…” —Ephesians 6:17 "Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." — Romans 12:2 (NLT) "We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ." — 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NLT) IV. Take Up the Sword of the Spirit—Fight with God's Word “…and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” —Ephesians 6:17 "But Jesus told him, 'No! The Scriptures say, ‘People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.''" — Matthew 4:4 (NLT) "Jesus responded, 'The Scriptures also say, ‘You must not test the Lord your God.''" — Matthew 4:7 (NLT) "‘You must worship the Lord your God and serve only him.'" — Matthew 4:10 (NLT) "For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires." — Hebrews 4:12 (NLT) Application / Challenge: Use What God Has Given You Gospel Grounding: Write one sentence that summarizes the gospel. Say it aloud every morning this week as your foundation. Shield of Faith: Name one lie you're tempted to believe. Then find and write down one Scripture promise that tells the truth—and post it where you'll see it daily. Helmet of Salvation: Spend five intentional minutes each day reflecting on who you are in Christ. Let His truth shape your thoughts. Sword of the Spirit: Memorize one Bible verse that speaks directly to a struggle you're facing—and use it in prayer and conversation this week. Think about it. What specific steps can you take each morning to ground yourself in the gospel, ensuring you're ready to face the day's challenges? Identify one lie you've been tempted to believe recently. What Scripture can you apply to counter that lie and strengthen your faith? Think about a situation where negative thoughts or doubts overwhelmed you. How can you put on the "helmet of salvation" to guard your mind in similar situations moving forward? Choose a current struggle in your life. What Bible verse can you memorize and declare to actively fight back with the "sword of the Spirit"? For more information about Middle River Assembly of God visit https://middleriverag.org/ To help support the mission of Middle River Assembly of God, please go to our new giving platform https://tithe.ly/give?c=4877442 CCLI Copyright License # 1013363 CCLI Streaming License # 20006236 Thank you for your support. Middle River Assembly of God 9620 Bird River Rd. Middle River, MD 21220 MiddleRiverAG@Gmail.com FB.com/MiddleRiverAG 410-391-7993 Links Website Facebook Twitter Instagram https://tithe.ly/give?c=4877442 Find out more at https://love-connect-grow-serve-sermon.pinecast.co This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

“Even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right.” (Romans 2:14–15 NLT) A well-lived life is one that is guided by a Spirit-controlled conscience. Someone once said, “Conscience is that inner voice that warns us somebody may be looking.” Someone else said, “Conscience is what hurts when everything else feels so good.” And someone else said, “Conscience doesn’t always keep you from doing wrong, but it does keep you from enjoying it.” Apparently, the idea of a conscience triggers the cynical instincts of certain people. Everyone has a conscience. The apostle Paul wrote, “Even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right” (Romans 2:14–15 NLT). The conscience acts as an alarm. And like a car alarm or a smoke alarm, it can be disabled—or at least quieted. If you ignore your conscience long enough, its “chirping” will become less and less noticeable to you. In time, it will fade into background noise, something you pay no attention to. The Bible warns us against allowing this to happen. The apostle Paul wrote, “Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons. These people are hypocrites and liars, and their consciences are dead” (1 Timothy 4:1–2 NLT). A deactivated or dead conscience makes us susceptible to all kinds of evil. To live well, spiritually speaking, you must keep your conscience functioning at a high level. Keep in mind that your conscience is not infallible. Sometimes it will try to condemn you for something that’s not actually wrong. The apostle John wrote, “Even if we feel guilty, God is greater than our feelings, and he knows everything” (1 John 3:20 NLT). Similarly, there will be times when your conscience refuses to condemn you after you do something wrong. It will try to justify your actions or downplay their seriousness. So, it’s important to teach your conscience how to function properly. You do that by placing it under the control of the Holy Spirit. Spend time in God’s Word, learning everything you can about how God wants you to live. Then pay attention to the Holy Spirit’s prompts so that you’ll know when to make changes in your life. Martin Luther said, “My conscience is captive to the Word of God.” If you effectively educate your conscience to do what it’s supposed to do as designed by the Lord, you will have the foundation in place for a well-lived life. Reflection question: What does a Spirit-controlled conscience look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The LORD of Heaven’s Armies will hover over Jerusalem and protect it like a bird protecting its nest. [NLT]

Welcome back to the podcast! We've all heard them. Little phrases that sound wise, comforting, or even spiritual—but they're not true. In this series, we'll uncover some of the most common believable lies people buy into about God, life, and faith.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Believable Lies: Loving Means AffirmingOur culture has embraced a powerful but dangerous idea — that real love means total affirmation. We're told that if we truly love someone, we must agree with everything they believe, approve of every lifestyle choice they make, and celebrate every identity they claim. To do anything less, we're told, is hateful or judgmental. But when we look at the life of Jesus, we find a radically different picture of love. His love was never about blind affirmation — it was about truth and transformation.Jesus Shows a Third WayIn John 8:1–11 (NLT), the religious leaders dragged before Jesus a woman caught in adultery. They demanded a verdict:“Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?” (v. 4–5)The crowd waited, silent and tense. Would Jesus condemn her or affirm her? Those seemed like the only two options. But Jesus revealed a third way — a love that was both truthful and gracious.When the accusers persisted, Jesus replied:“All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” (v. 7)One by one, the accusers slipped away until only Jesus and the woman remained. Then He said:“Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” (v. 11)Jesus didn't excuse her sin, but He didn't crush her either. He forgave her and called her to a new life. That's what real love does — it offers mercy and transformation side by side.Our world says: If you love me, affirm me.Jesus says: If I love you, I'll free you.God's Love Is Faithful, Not AffirmingFrom the very beginning, God's love has been faithful — but never permissive. In the Old Testament, God loved His people Israel deeply, yet He never affirmed their rebellion or idolatry. His love led Him to correct them, discipline them, and restore them.In Jeremiah 31:3–4 (NLT), God tells His people:“I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love.With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself.I will rebuild you, my virgin Israel.”What's remarkable about this passage is when God said it — right before Israel faced exile and destruction for their sin. Even as judgment...

(Bilingual) このメッセージでは太助牧師が「神様を敬う」ってどういうこと？」について以下の２つのポイントから話します。ディスカッション用の質問はノートの最後に確認できます。In this message Ps Tasuke talks about “WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO “HONOR GOD”? in these 2 points:Check the questions for discussion at the end of the note. マタイ 22:37-40 ERV / Matthew 22:37-40 ERVマタイ26:6-12 新改訳2017 / Matthew 26:6-12 NLTマタイ26:7 新改訳2017 / Matthew 26:7 NLTローマ 12:1 ERV / Romans 12:1 ERVマタイ26:13 新改訳2017 / Matthew 26:13 NLT1サムエル 2:30b 新改訳2017 / 1 Samuel 2:30b NLTローマ5:6-8 ERV / Romans 5:6-8 ERV1.神様を敬う＝神様を重んじる TO HONOR GOD = TO PLACE WEIGHT UPON GOD2.神様を敬う人を、神様は敬う GOD HONORS THOSE WHO HONOR HIMQUESTIONS(質問) : ・How would you describe honor God in your own words?・ Why did the woman pour expensive perfume on Jesus?・How can we bring honor to God in our daily lives?・ What can we learn about honor from the Roman officer's faith (Matthew 8)?・This week, what is one way you can put God first and bless others?・自分の発する言葉で「神様を敬う」とはどういうことだと思いますか？・なぜあの女性は高価な香油をイエスに注いだのでしょうか？・私たちは日常生活の中で、どのように神様を敬うことができますか？・ローマの百人隊長の信仰（マタイ8章）から、私たちは「敬うこと」について何を学べますか？・今週、神様を第一にし、他の人を祝福するためにできることはありますか？ Connect with us:Web: mylifehouse.comInstagram: instagram.com/lifehouseglobal/Facebook: facebook.com/lifehouseglobalVideo Messages: ビデオメッセージ: youtube.com/LifehouseTokyoOther Podcasts:Want to listen to our messages in other languages?Lifehouse Messages (English): https://lifehousemessages.captivate.fm/listenLifehouse Hong Kong (Cantonese & English): https://lifehousehongkong.captivate.fm/listen

“Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my Savior and my God!” (Psalm 42:5–6 NLT) The Christian life is full of difficult questions. Many of them begin with “Why, Lord?” or some variation thereof. The Old Testament prophet Habakkuk asked, “How long, O Lord, must I call for help? But you do not listen! ‘Violence is everywhere!’ I cry, but you do not come to save. Must I forever see these evil deeds? Why must I watch all this misery? Wherever I look, I see destruction and violence. I am surrounded by people who love to argue and fight” (Habakkuk 1:2–3 NLT). The psalmist Asaph asked, “Has the Lord rejected me forever? Will he never again be kind to me? Is his unfailing love gone forever? Have his promises permanently failed? Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he slammed the door on his compassion?” (Psalm 77:7–9 NLT). I have my questions for God that I’ve asked many times. I’m sure that you have yours, too. But we must see these questions for what they are: temporary sources of pain, discouragement, or confusion. The apostle Paul wrote, “Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely” (1 Corinthians 13:12 NLT). Our earthly perspective and understanding are limited. All our questions will be answered someday. God answered Habakkuk. “Look around at the nations; look and be amazed! For I am doing something in your own day, something you wouldn’t believe even if someone told you about it” (Habakkuk 1:5 NLT). And passages such as Ecclesiastes 3 give us context for our questions. “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. . . . A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance” (verses 1, 4 NLT). A well-lived life is one in which we keep our questions in proper perspective. One in which we refuse to allow them to cause bitterness or resentment toward God—or to live “out of season,” in the context of Ecclesiastes 3. In 2 Corinthians 12, Paul recounts praying for God to remove a “thorn” in his flesh—some kind of affliction that caused him difficulties. God chose not to. Paul didn’t understand why, but he didn’t let it slow him down. A well-lived life is one that embraces the challenge of faith—that is, trusting God without having all the answers. A well-lived life is one in which we cling to the words of the psalmist in Psalm 42:5–6: “Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my Savior and my God!” (NLT). Reflection question: What will you do with your unanswered questions for God? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“When they breathe their last, they return to the earth, and all their plans die with them.” (Psalm 146:4 NLT) A well-lived life is one in which we keep death in perspective. Death is a reality because of our sin. The apostle Paul wrote, “When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned” (Romans 5:12 NLT). Death is a ticking clock. We know that our time on earth is limited. James 4:14 says, “How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone” (NLT). Psalm 146:4 says, “When they breathe their last, they return to the earth, and all their plans die with them” (NLT). The time of our death is known to God, as is everything. Our death will come at the appointed time—not a moment before, not a moment after. And there’s nothing we can do to prolong our life beyond the time God has allotted for us. I’m sorry, but all that wheat germ and tofu isn’t going to extend your life. It may give you a better quality of life. (Then again, it may not.) But it certainly will not prolong it. You have no guarantee that you’ll live a long life, only that you’ll live the life God has given to you. As believers, we have no reason to fear death. Jesus made our eternal life possible. We have no reason to fear the specter of death. David wrote, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4 ESV). But the reality of death—that is, of the limited time we have on this earth—adds urgency to our work as Christ’s disciples. We have only so much time to share the gospel with people for whom death is an enemy. We have only so much time to plant spiritual seeds in the lives of others. We may never see those seeds cultivated. We may never see the fruit that grows from them. But we can plant the seeds and trust God to bring them to fruition. The reality of death also adds an immediacy to our relationships. Paul wrote, “Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil” (Ephesians 4:26–27 NLT). He urged believers to resolve conflicts and forgive one another quickly. The time is too short to do otherwise. Jesus said, “So if you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God” (Matthew 5:23–24 NLT). In other words, drop what you’re doing in order to be reconciled because there’s no guarantee that you’ll get another chance. The reality of death adds urgency to our Christian service and gives us the necessary perspective for a well-lived life. Reflection question: What does keeping death in perspective look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if God already knows your every thought—and still loves you? In this Scripture meditation on Psalm 139:1–4, we begin our Fully Known, Fully Loved series with a reflection on God’s deep, intimate knowledge of us. Using the Lectio Divina method, we’ll gently meditate on the reality that God knows every word before we speak it, every move before we make it—and none of that scares Him away. In a world obsessed with self-discovery, these verses remind us of something even more powerful: Before we try to figure ourselves out… God already knows. And His love is unwavering. In this guided Christian meditation, you’ll be invited to:• Reflect on what it means to be fully known by God• Consider how God sees and understands you with perfect love• Rest in the truth that His knowledge of you is not threatening—but comforting

During the reigns of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed or conquered. It will crush all these kingdoms into nothingness, and it will stand forever. (Daniel 2:44 NLT).--Chapter Time Stamps:00:00 Intro00:18 Chapter 103:56 Chapter 212:20 Chapter 318:04 Chapter 425:36 Chapter 531:35 Chapter 636:53 Chapter 742:43 Chapter 847:46 Chapter 954:07 Chapter 1057:51 Chapter 111:06:19 Chapter 121:08:55 Outro--contact@parableministries.comhttps://www.parableministries.comhttps://www.instagram.com/parable_ministries/--Music created by Chad HoffmanArtwork created by Anthony Kuenzi--Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. All rights reserved. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188.New Living Translation, NLT, and the New Living Translation logo are registered trademarks of Tyndale House Ministries.TYNDALE, New Living Translation, NLT, the New Living Translation logo, and Tyndale's Quill logo are registered trademarks of Tyndale House Publishers.

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6 NKJV) A well-lived life is a project to start early. The younger you start, the more of an advantage you’ll have. We can see this principle at work in Solomon’s advice to parents in Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV): “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” When you’re young, you make decisions that will impact the rest of your life. Decisions about your career. Decisions about marriage. Decisions about how you interact with family and friends. Decisions about how you spend your time. Decisions about what you embrace and what you reject. Decisions about how you deal with temptation. When you’re young, you also establish habits and patterns that will shape your life for years to come. So, it’s vital that you make the right decisions as early in life as possible. As you get older, you get set in your ways. You start to prefer routines. You listen to the same stations on the radio—usually oldies or talk. You go to the same restaurant, sit in the same booth, and order the same meal again and again and again. You guide your day by your routines. That’s not necessarily a bad thing—as long as your routine is beneficial. That’s especially important in your spiritual life. If you have youth on your side, you can develop the discipline to study the Bible every day. You can develop the discipline to pray and listen to God every day. You can develop the discipline to faithfully offer your finances to support the Lord’s work. You can develop the discipline to share your faith with others. The apostle Paul wrote, “Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. ‘Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come’” (1 Timothy 4:7–8 NLT). The apostle Peter wrote, “In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone. The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:5–8 NLT). The earlier you begin prioritizing these things, the more deeply they will become ingrained in your life. But starting early on a well-lived life isn’t always possible. Jesus’ disciples were well into adulthood when they started. So was the apostle Paul. No matter what stage of life you’re in, it’s never too late to begin pursuing a well-lived life. Reflection question: What would a well-lived life look like for you? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.” (Ephesians 5:15–17 NLT) Over the next few days, we’re going to talk about a life well-lived. James 4:14 says, “What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes” (ESV). We may not have much say in when our life starts or when it stops, but we have a whole lot of say in what happens in between. Are you living your life well? That’s an important question because you never know when your life will end. Of course, for Christians, life will never end. We will live forever in the Lord’s presence. Even so, the life we live in this world is connected to the life we will live in the next. God will reward us for faithful service—for lives well-lived. So, we need to put a lot of thought into how we live our lives. That starts with establishing guiding principles. If we know the principles we want to live by, we can shape our decision-making, our interactions with others, our priorities, and our daily routines to fit those principles. As believers, principles such as godliness, obedience, integrity, and faithfulness should be at the top of our list. We embrace godliness by staying close to the Lord through prayer and Bible study, working to understand His ways and His will. We embrace obedience by following His commands, especially when it’s difficult to do. We embrace integrity by living by godly principles—when people are watching and when they aren’t. We embrace faithfulness by seeking to grow every day in our relationship with the Lord. A life well-lived is one in which we recognize and welcome God’s chosen path for us. After Jesus’ resurrection, He appeared to the apostle Peter to restore Peter after the disciple had denied knowing Him. During their conversation, Jesus revealed to Peter that he would die for his faith. Peter pointed to the apostle John and asked, “What about him, Lord?” (John 21:21 NLT). Jesus replied, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? As for you, follow me” (verse 22 NLT). In other words, don’t worry about what God has planned for someone else; focus on what He has planned for you. Celebrate the resources God has blessed you with. Use the spiritual gifts He’s given you. Blaze the trails He’s laid out for you. Make a difference in the lives of people in your orbit. Grow in your relationship with Him, in your own way and at your own pace. Prioritize the things that matter; let go of the things that don’t. Understand your weaknesses so that you can resist the temptations that are aimed at them. Make the most of your strengths. That’s what a well-lived life looks like. Reflection question: How can you better live your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Burnout recovery often hides in fear of change. You cling to safety nets, but regret costs more than risk. Through Scripture and recalibration, discover how trust — not credentials — is the path to aligned expansion.Burnout recovery isn't only about doing less — sometimes it's about learning to trust God enough to release the nets you've been clinging to. High-capacity humans often carry decision fatigue, role confusion, and identity drift, mistaking safety for alignment.In this Sunday episode of The Recalibration with Julie Holly, Julie weaves neuroscience, Scripture, and identity-level transformation into one powerful invitation. Drawing from Matthew 4:18–22, she unpacks how Peter, Andrew, James, and John left their nets behind — not because they had credentials, but because they had faith that where Jesus was leading was worth the risk.It's not just an ancient story. Today, it might look like leaving a stable career for a calling you can't yet explain. It might look like stepping into leadership when you'd rather stay in the comfort of what you've already mastered.Through Identity-Level Recalibration (ILR), you learn to retrain the nervous system so it no longer confuses unfamiliar with unsafe. Instead of seeing God's invitation as danger, you begin to recognize it as alignment. This isn't another mindset tactic or productivity hack — it's the root-level recalibration that makes every other tool effective.Anchoring Scripture: Matthew 4:18–22 (NLT). Category-of-one anchor: Without recalibration, risk feels like danger. With recalibration, risk becomes trust.Today's Micro Recalibration: “If I trusted God enough to leave the familiar nets behind, what expansion would I say yes to?”If this episode gave you language you've been missing, please rate and review the show so more high-capacity humans can find it. Explore Identity-Level Recalibration→ Follow Julie Holly on LinkedIn for more recalibration insights → Schedule a conversation with Julie to see if The Recalibration is a fit for you → Download the Misalignment Audit → Subscribe to the weekly newsletter → Join the waitlist for the next Recalibration cohort This isn't therapy. This isn't coaching. This is identity recalibration — and it changes everything.

ONE THING: Compassion is taking your talk out for a walk! Dear children, let's not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. – 1 John 3:18 (NLT)

“Jesus replied, ‘I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.’” (John 3:3 NLT) Heaven is a prepared place for prepared people. If you’re going to take a trip, you must book a flight. You must secure a ticket. You can’t just walk into an airport and board a plane. In the same way, if you want to go to Heaven, you must secure a ticket. You may ask, “How much will it cost?” The answer is, you couldn’t afford it. But the good news is that Jesus Christ came to this earth, died on a cross for your sin, and rose again from the dead. In doing so, He, in effect, purchased your ticket for eternal life. There are no other flights or means of transportation that can get you there. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (John 14:6 NLT). He also said, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God” (John 3:3 NLT). Some people claim that all spiritual paths lead to God and Heaven—or at least some version of Heaven. They argue that what you believe isn’t necessarily important, as long as you’re sincere in your beliefs. But that thinking is dangerously wrong. God sent His Son for the express purpose of providing the only path to eternal life. No other beliefs will take you to Heaven. If you want to receive the ticket for eternal life that Jesus purchased for you, here’s what you need to do. Say, “Lord, I accept the gift that You have offered to me. I turn from my sin, and I put my faith in You.” Have you done that? Some people see it as an end-of-life matter. They reason that they can live their lives however they want and then, as the end approaches, settle their spiritual accounts and make the necessary decisions. There are several problems with that strategy, but the most problematic is that none of us knows when life is going to end. James 4:14 says, “Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes” (ESV). This is a decision to be made sooner rather than later. If the Lord gives you many years of life, you’ll live them for His glory and enjoy His blessings. If He doesn’t give you many years of life, you’ll experience His glory up close and personal. The point is, either way you’re ready. This is not a decision to put off. If you’ve already accepted Christ as Savior and Lord and know that you’re going to Heaven, help others understand the urgency of making the same decision. Give your friends, loved ones, coworkers, neighbors, and acquaintances the chance to know that they, too, will go to Heaven when they die. Reflection question: How do you know that you will go to Heaven when you die? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, ‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.’” (1 Corinthians 2:9 NLT) If you get your theology from popular culture, you might imagine Heaven as a place where people sit on clouds and strum harps for eternity. But the truth is much more exciting. The Bible offers a glimpse of a few of the things we’ll do in Heaven. The first is worship. In describing his vision of Heaven, the apostle John wrote, “I saw before me what seemed to be a glass sea mixed with fire. And on it stood all the people who had been victorious over the beast and his statue and the number representing his name. They were all holding harps that God had given them. And they were singing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb: ‘Great and marvelous are your works, O Lord God, the Almighty. Just and true are your ways, O King of the nations’” (Revelation 15:2–3 NLT). We’ll be doing much more than singing a hymn. We’ll be fulfilling the purpose for which we were created: to bring honor and glory to God. We’ll be doing it in His presence, with countless other believers, all filled with joy and awe at the privilege. We’ll sing in perfect harmony—a sound of unimaginable beauty. We also will be busy doing our Father’s business in Heaven. The Bible doesn’t offer a lot of details, but John wrote of those he saw in Heaven, “They stand in front of God’s throne and serve him day and night in his Temple” (Revelation 7:15 NLT). Is it possible that in Heaven we’ll finish tasks that were left uncompleted on earth? Or fulfill dreams that were shattered on earth? Who’s to say that God won’t allow us to accomplish our meaningful earthly goals in Heaven? After all, death for the believer is not the end of life but a continuation of it in another place. We’ll also eat in Heaven. John wrote, “Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb” (Revelation 19:9 NLT). Imagine the food that’s served in Heaven. And then imagine enjoying it for eternity. But the main event of Heaven will be the Lord Himself. Jesus said, “When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am” (John 14:3 NLT). The apostle Paul said, “I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me” (Philippians 1:23 NLT). D. L. Moody wrote, “It will not be the jasper walls and the pearly gates that will make heaven attractive. It is our being with God.” But these are just glimpses. There’s no way our finite minds can conceive of all that we will do in Heaven. As Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 2:9, “That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, ‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him’” (NLT). Reflection question: What do you look forward to doing in Heaven? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we face uncertainty, when life gets hard, when things happen that we can’t explain, we’ll often ask: Where is God? But every Christian should realize they are never alone. Jesus is with you. Pastor Greg Laurie shares more in this message. Notes: Focus verse - Genesis 22 Matthew 28:20 (NKJV)“Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Psalm 23:4 (NKJV)“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,I will fear no evil; For You are with me;Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Sometimes our feelings need to catch up with our faith. #1 Joseph was in a prison cell. He probably felt all alone and abandoned. He was there, not because he broke a law, but because he kept one—God’s law. God was in the prison cell with Joseph. Genesis 50:20 (NKJV)"You meant it for evil; but God meant it for good—to save many people alive.” #2 Let’s go from a prison to a palace and think of Esther. Queen Vashti, to her credit, refused. She would not be humiliated or objectified, not even by the king. Vashti is a role model for young girls and women today.Don’t ever let some guy reduce you to a mere object. You are a woman made in the image God. If you present yourself cheaply, don’t expect to be valued royally. A man needs to value you for who you are on the inside, not only the outside. The most attractive thing is to be a godly and principled woman. Through the providence of God, Esther became the queen of Persia. God is always at work in the life of the believer, every hour of every day. God is now here! Providence comes from the Latin prōvidentia; “pro” meaning "before" or "ahead of time” and “videntia” meaning “to see.” God is in control. #3 The story of Israel at the Red Sea.They were between a rock and a hard place. Exodus 14:13–14 (NLT) Exodus 14:13–14 (NLT) Colossians 1:16–17 Exodus 14:19 A Christophany is an appearance of Jesus in the Old Testament. John 8:56–58 (NKJV)"Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad." John 8:56–58 (NKJV)Then the Jews said to Him, "You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?" John 8:56–58 (NKJV)Jesus said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM!" Luke 24:27 The disciples on the Emmaus Road were literally listening to God incarnate describe His Old Testament appearances. Jesus didn’t begin in Bethlehem; He has always been. The story of redemption started a long time ago in a garden. The Christmas story begins with a tree: the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. Adam and Eve sinned and lost that sweet fellowship with God. Genesis 3:8 (NLT)“When the cool evening breezes were blowing, the man and his wife heard the LORD God walking about in the garden.” We can never escape the presence of God. When you walk with God, it is a source of comfort. 1 John 1:9 (NKJV)“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.” James 1:14–15 (NLT)“Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away.These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow,it gives birth to death.” The Bible says, “Christ was slain from the foundation of the world.” Genesis 3:15 Pharaoh tried to exterminate the Jews starting with the Hebrew baby boys. Wicked Haman tried to have the Jews wiped off the face of the earth. King Herod hearing that one was born, “King of the Jews,”tried to kill Jesus, but that too failed. Nothing would stop Messiah from coming.Nothing will stop Christ from coming again either. #4 The story of Abraham and Isaac on Mount Moriah. Read Genesis 22 The two of them went together.Genesis 22:8 That is exactly what happened when Jesus went to the cross for us. This gives a glimpse of Calvary from the Father’s perspective, sacrificing His Son, His only Son. Genesis 22:11 Christ died in our place and absorbed the wrath of God. --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners. Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.