Podcasts about nlt

Send us a textWe love the miracle moments—the breakthrough, the answered prayer, the clear direction. But what about the space between deliverance and destination—the “in-between”? Inspired by Summit Worship's "In The Waiting" and the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, this episode of More Than a Song explores what God may be teaching us when the waiting feels long and the water tastes bitter. Could it be that in the in-between, God isn't absent...He's just getting personal?Key PointsMichelle shares personal updates on being “in the waiting” and how this season mirrors the spiritual and emotional tension explored in this week's song and Scripture.God doesn't abandon us in the “in between”; He uses it to shape us and reveal Himself more deeply.Michelle uses the Israelites' journey after the Exodus to explore how God tests and teaches His people during wilderness seasons.God's expectations of devotion come before His provision—He desires a relationship, not just requests.The names and attributes of God, such as Yahweh Rapha (“The Lord Your Healer”), are revealed through these wilderness moments.Scripture ReferencesExodus 15:22–27 – Bitter water made sweet; God reveals Himself as “The Lord, Your Healer.”Exodus 16:3–4 – God's people grumble in hunger; He tests them with daily provision of manna.Exodus 17:2–7 – Quarreling and thirsting at Massah and Meribah; God brings water from the rock.Exodus 13:17 – God intentionally leads the Israelites the long way around to avoid immediate conflict they weren't ready for.Exodus 1–17 (recommended reading) – To fully grasp the context of Israel's wilderness journey.Bible Interaction Tool Exercises (BITEs) UsedRead in context – Don't isolate stories; read the full narrative from Exodus 1–17 (and beyond!)Use curiosity and meditation – Ask yourself questions like, “Why did they grumble against Moses instead of God?”Remember the people in the Bible were REAL – Remember, these were real people with real needs and emotions.Make a list – What does God want? (Ex. 15:26)Read in multiple translations – Words like “tormented” in the NLT can spark new insights.Use supplemental resources – Biblical Fiction like Where the Desert Blooms by Sierra Elliot can bring Scripture to life - Amazon Paid LinkAdditional Resources

Scripture Meditation | Lectio Divina | Strength in Weakness | 2 Corinthians 12:7–10 (NLT) Download your FREE Unshakable Journal here. Is there a struggle, a weakness, or a burden you’ve been asking God to take away?But it’s still there. It feels like it’s lingering, and it’s holding you back. You’re not alone.The Apostle Paul felt the same way. In this passage, Paul shares a deeply personal struggle—his “thorn in the flesh”—and how God responded not by removing it, but by offering a deeper promise:“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” In this week’s meditation, we’ll slow down with 2 Corinthians 12:7–10, reflecting on what it means to find unshakable strength not in ourselves but in God. This is the eighth episode in our series: Unshakable: Strength for Today, Hope for Tomorrow. Each week, we’re meditating on Scripture that anchors us in God’s truth and helps us stand firm in every season. In this meditation on Unshakable Strength in Surrender, you’ll be invited to:• Reflect on a place in your life where you feel weak or burdened• Notice what God is saying to you through Paul’s words• Consider how God might be inviting you to trust Him more• Rest in the truth that His grace is not only enough—it is abundant Your weakness is not the end of the story.It’s the very place where God’s strength is most at work. Download your FREE Unshakable Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: Music Credit: Simon Wester. Check out his music on Spotify here. You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Passage | 2 Corinthians 12:7–10 (NLT): 7 Even though I have received such wonderful revelations from God. So to keep me from becoming proud, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from becoming proud.8 Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away.9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.”So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.10 That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!” (2 Timothy 3:5 NLT) As an evangelist, I constantly observe how two people who hear the same message will react in two completely different ways. One person will be profoundly moved, while the other will become harder in their sin. We see the very same thing in the story of Cain and Abel. Both men were sons of Adam and Eve. Both were raised in the same home and exposed to the same spiritual message. When we first read their story in Genesis 4, it seems as though they were both believers. But time revealed that Cain was so jealous and embittered that he murdered his brother Abel. The story of Cain and Abel ought to remind us that there are people just going through the motions, spiritually speaking. They give the appearance of being believers, but they have no real relationship with God. Or, as the apostle Paul put it in 2 Timothy 3:15: “They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly” (NLT). That’s the life story of too many people. They are all show and no go. Their faith in God is nothing more than a mere game or act. Paul followed his description with a warning: “Stay away from people like that!” (NLT). Believers, especially young believers, can be led astray by people with an insincere faith. Consider this. You can offer like Cain. You can weep like Esau. You can serve like Gehazi. You can be a disciple like Judas. You can recite long prayers like the Pharisees. You can be a seeking soul like the rich young ruler. You can have lamps like the five foolish bridesmaids. You can do all these things and still be lost. Jesus was referring to God’s words recorded in Isaiah 29:13 when He said, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me” (Matthew 15:8 NLT). And while spiritual acts may fool many people, they can never fool the Lord. Remember: “The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7 NLT). That’s why it’s such a short-sighted mistake to take a surface-deep approach to the Christian faith. One day, we will all have to answer for the choices we make in this life. And Jesus warned in Matthew 7:21: “Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter” (NLT). Jesus offers not just eternal life in heaven but also “a rich and satisfying life” (John 10:10 NLT) in this world. But you can’t experience it if your only concern is looking like a Christian. Jesus demands your whole heart. Reflection question: How can you tell the difference between a sincere and insincere faith? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As you will discover today, the Bible forewarned in remarkable detail the rise of the nation of Iran in the end-times, and predicted Iran's participation in a coming prophetic war with the nation of Israel.Many are asking, could this current showdown between Israel and Iran be the great war foretold in Bible prophecy?Let's open our Bibles today and answer several critical questions about Israel, Iran and end-time predictions that I believe everyone should understand.1 - Did The Bible Prophesy The Perpetual Middle East Hostility?2 - Why Are Israel and Iran At War ?3 - What Is Iran's Role In Final Bible Prophecy?------------------Key Scriptures for today's teaching: Ezekiel 38:1-9Other Scriptures in this study: Genesis 16:9-12Unless otherwise noted, most Scripture will be from the NLT, the New Living TranslationIf you prayed with Tiff, click here https://lostlamb.org/ and let him know! Unless otherwise noted, most Scripture will be read from the New Living Translation (NLT) Bible.Thank you for listening, and subscribe for new content each week. Connect with Tiff Shuttlesworth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LostLambAssociation/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffshuttlesworth/ X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/tiffshuttleswor Learn more about my ministry: https://lostlamb.org/ Learn more about my ministry in Canada: https://www.lostlamb.ca

“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” (1 Corinthians 13:4–7 NLT) Maybe you’ve heard someone say about a happy, loving couple, “They have a marriage made in Heaven.” The implication is that some marriages just work—and that, by extension, some marriages don’t. Don’t believe it. Good marriages thrive because of the efforts made by both partners. Bad marriages fail because of the neglect of both partners. You want a good marriage? Make it. You want a bad marriage? Neglect it. There are two things we can work at to strengthen our marriages. First, we must obey the Word of God. God’s Word must be the standard for marriage. If that’s the case, then we’re on the right track. If that’s not the case, then we’ll face troubles ahead. The apostle Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 13:4–7 give us a master class in creating a solid, thriving, durable relationship. It starts with choosing patience and kindness in interacting with one another and refusing to allow circumstances to change that. It challenges us to act selflessly, to work through the insecurities that lead to jealousy, rudeness, and a sense of privilege. It calls us to strive for integrity, emphasizing a spirit of forgiveness, honesty, faith, hope, and endurance. And that’s just one passage. Building a marriage on the foundation of Scripture is a lifetime pursuit. But what a life it promises! Second, we need to lay aside the world’s distorted and perverse concept of marriage. We need to learn to see through the lie that marriage is secondary to our own needs and wants. And the lie that marriage is disposable. We need to remove the word divorce from our vocabulary. Divorce can’t be some trapdoor that’s always nearby in case we want to escape. We need to resolve to make our relationship work through thick and thin, no matter what. We need to determine that because we’ve made a sacred vow, we’re going to stand by our marriage. Jesus was quoting God’s words in Genesis 2:24 when He said, “This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one” (NLT). He added, “Since they are no longer two but one, let no one split apart what God has joined together” (Matthew 19:6 NLT). Let no one split apart what God has joined together. That doesn’t leave much wiggle room, does it? Winston Churchill said during World War II, “Wars are not won through evacuation.” The same is true of marriage. It’s a commitment until death do us part. Reflection question: What does a healthy, God-honoring marriage look like? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While ancient and modern philosophies offer partial truths about life and happiness, Christianity offers something greater - not just a set of ideas to live by, but a relationship with Jesus Christ who transforms us from the inside out and invites us into God's kingdom.--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 --Today we're covering 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12. Week 1 Big Idea: In a world of competing tribal identities, Paul reminds the Thessalonians - and us - that our primary identity as believers is our belonging to God's family, which changes everything about us.Week 2 Big Idea: Just as the early Christians boldly proclaimed Jesus as Lord in a world that worshipped Caesar, we're called to put our hope in Christ's kingdom rather than in political powers or cultural influences that promise to "save" us.Today's text: It's the section of the letter where Paul describes his entrance and strategy when he first arrived in Thessalonica (Acts 17). To better understand this passage in its context, we need to explain the situation in this city.Thessalonica was a thriving Roman city—a hub for trade, politics, and ideas. Like other major cities in the empire, it attracted traveling philosophers, orators, and moral teachers. These figures shaped public thought, civic identity, and moral behavior. We see this in Acts 17First, Paul was in Thessalonica (v1-9)Then went to Berea (v10-15)Then to Athens (v16-33)Acts 17:18 (NLT) 18 He also had a debate with some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers. When he told them about Jesus and his resurrection, they said, “What's this babbler trying to say with these strange ideas he's picked up?” Others said, “He seems to be preaching about some foreign gods.”To the average person in Thess, Paul would have looked like one of these philosophersToday we'll see: What Paul brought was greater than philosophy.Let me explain:Four Types of Philosophers in Paul's day:Epicureans – The Seekers of PleasureTaught that pleasure (understood as peace of mind and freedom from pain) was the greatest good.Focus: Avoid pain, enjoy simple pleasures, carpe diem (sieze the day).In today's world: Think of voices that say, “Just protect your peace,” or “Do whatever makes you happy,” often divorced from accountability or eternal truth.Ex: Oprah Winfrey“Life is not an obligation, but an opportunity to be whoever and whatever you want. ”“God is a feeling experience, not a believing experience.”Ex: Deepak Chopra“The universe has no fixed agenda. It responds to your intentions.”Stoics – The Disciplinarians of VirtueTaught that virtue is the highest good and that people should live according to reason.Focus: Self-control, inner peace, moral duty, acceptance of...

“If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters, Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message of faith and the good teaching you have followed.” (1 Timothy 4:6 NLT) Somewhere along the line, we have separated evangelism from discipleship. But there is no such distinction in Scripture. The idea of the Great Commission is not just to pray with someone to receive Christ and then say, “See you later. God bless you.” That would be like a mother who gives birth to her baby and then says, “God bless you, my child. It’s a rough world out there, but here’s a box of Pampers. Now get going.” A little baby needs to be nurtured and coddled and cared for and loved and taught. A new believer requires the same. As believers, our objective, our vision, and our mission is to make fellow disciples. That means working to help new Christians get on their feet spiritually, acclimate to the church, and learn what it means to be a Christian. Only then are we truly fulfilling the Great Commission. Look at the apostle Paul’s words to Timothy, a young spiritual leader: “If you explain these things to the brothers and sisters, Timothy, you will be a worthy servant of Christ Jesus, one who is nourished by the message of faith and the good teaching you have followed” (1 Timothy 4:6 NLT). Timothy had been nurtured, physically and spiritually, by a godly mother and a godly grandmother. They had instilled in him a strong faith. And that’s what Paul wanted Timothy to do for others: nurture and instill a strong faith. That’s what all believers are called to do. You’ll notice in Paul’s words that this nurturing and instilling begins with three simple words: “Explain these things.” The truths of Scripture aren’t always intuitive or self-evident because they call for us to resist our natural inclinations—the impulses of the person we used to be—and do things that seem completely out of character. Love your enemies? Forgive those who do you harm? Put other people’s needs before your own? Take up your cross? If you don’t have questions and concerns about the Christian life as a new believer, you’re not paying attention. Believers who aren’t new to the faith can fulfill the Great Commission by addressing their questions and concerns. The apostle Peter said, “If someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it” (1 Peter 3:15 NLT). We can make ourselves ready by studying God’s Word purposefully and faithfully, asking and answering our own tough questions, by spending quality time in prayer—talking and listening to our heavenly Father, deepening our relationship with Him—and by spending time in fellowship with other believers, sharing experiences, encouraging one another, and holding one another accountable. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend” (NLT). The more time we spend honing our own spiritual edges, the better prepared we’ll be to sharpen new believers into disciples. Reflection question: How can you equip yourself to mentor new believers? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“And I have prepared a place there for the Ark, which contains the covenant that the Lord made with our ancestors when he brought them out of Egypt.”- ‭‭1 Kings‬ ‭8‬:‭21‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“And now the Lord has fulfilled the promise he made, for I have become king in my father's place, and now I sit on the throne of Israel, just as the Lord promised. I have built this Temple to honor the name of the Lord, the God of Israel.” - ‭‭1 Kings‬ ‭8‬:‭20‬ ‭NLT

“So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.” (Galatians 5:16 NLT) There are two ways that we can live: the right way or the wrong way. There are two paths that we can take: the narrow road that leads to life or the broad way that leads to destruction (see Matthew 7:13–14). There are two foundations that we can build on: solid rock or sinking sand (see Matthew 7:24–29). The choices we make concerning these things will determine whether we live a holy and happy life or an unholy and miserable life. Of course, the choices that seem obvious to some are less obvious to others. The right way, the narrow road, and the solid rock have little appeal for many unbelievers—and for believers who have fallen away from the faith. They see only misery, boredom, and restrictions. For them, Christianity is just a list of all the things they can’t do. No drinking. No smoking. No partying. No sex. No fun. I certainly felt that way before I became a Christian. I believed that Christians lived the most boring lives imaginable. But when I became a Christian, I discovered that my thinking was about 180 degrees off. I found that the holy way, the godly way, the way of obedience is, in reality, the best way. The happier way. The more joyful way. The more fulfilling way. That’s certainly the message we find in Psalm 119:1: “Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord!” (NLT). We find true happiness when we walk in the ways of the Lord. No one is suggesting that it’s easy to live the right way or walk the narrow road or build a foundation on solid rock. Often it requires us to go against the flow of our culture. And sometimes the right way isn’t always apparent right away. Our enemy the devil is a master of deceit. He appeals to our old sinful nature. He makes the wrong paths look appealing. He uses guilt and shame to immobilize us when we make the wrong decisions. But we have powerful resources to counter his strategies. We can turn to mature, godly believers for advice, counsel, and direction. We can pray for insight and discernment to correctly analyze our circumstances before we start down a path. Our spiritual common sense comes from our understanding of Scripture, so we can immerse ourselves in God’s Word until His truths become second nature to us. And we can listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit who dwells inside each of us. The apostle Paul wrote, “So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves” (Galatians 5:16 NLT). When we let prayer, the godly advice of others, the Word of God, and the Holy Spirit guide us, we can be confident that we’re following the right paths the Lord has planned for us. Reflection question: How do you approach an important decision in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As for me and my family, we will serve the Lord. Joshua 24:15 NLT

(Bilingual) このメッセージではロド牧師が「天のお父さん、あなたの名が、いつも聖なるものであるように」について以下の4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 Rod talks about "Our Father in Heaven, Hallowed Be Your Name" in these 4 points:Check the questions for discussion at the end of the note.Matthew 6:9 NIV / マタイ 6:9 ERVMatthew 6:10 NIV / マタイ 6:10 ERVMatthew 6:11 NIV / マタイ 6:11 ERVPhilippians 4:19 NIV / ピリピ 4:19 ERVJames 4:2 NLT / ヤコブ 4:2 ERVEphesians 3:20 NIV / エペソ 3:20 ERVJohn 6:5-9 NIV / ヨハネ 6:5-9 ERVColossians 3:23-24 NIV / コロサイ 3:23-24 ERVJohn 6:10-13 NIV / ヨハネ 6:10-13 ERV1 Peter 5:7 NKJV / 1ペテロ 5:7 ERV1.My Part - Prayer and Integrity 私の役割 - 祈りと誠実さ2.God's Part - Multiplication and Blessing 神様の役割 - 何倍にも増やすことと祝福すること3.Our Part - The Boy with the Fish Bento 私たちの役割 - お魚弁当の少年のストーリー4.God's Part - The Multiplication 神様の役割 - 何倍にも増やすことQUESTIONS(質問) : ・How can we trust God to meet our daily needs?どのように「神様が毎日の必要を満たしてくれる」のを信じていけますか？・How can we do our part by going to God in prayer?祈りを通して、私たちにできることは何ですか？・Why do you think Jesus used the boy's small lunch to feed so many people?なぜイエスは少年の小さなお弁当を使って大勢の人のお腹を満たしたと思いますか？・How have you seen God multiply your small efforts or blessings in your life?自分の小さな努力や祝福が、神様によって増し加えられた経験はありますか？ 　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

Send us a textJune 15, 2025                                                                                            Fruitful Summer           Week 3 The Fruit of Gentleness1. Gentleness Defuses Conflict A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:12.   Gentleness Disarms Critics The Lord's servant must not quarrel, but must be gentle to everyone, able to teach, and patient, instructing his opponents with gentleness. 2 Timothy 2:243.   Gentleness is Pursuasive Gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses. Proverbs 25:15 MSG4.  Gentleness is attractive As a man of God… pursue what God approves of: godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.  1 Timothy 6:11 GWYou should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God.  1 Peter 3:4 NLT 5.  Gentleness earns respect A woman of gentle grace will be respected.  Proverbs 11:16Moses was a very meek and gentle man. In fact, he was more gentle than anyone on the face of the earth!  Numbers 12:3 AMP 6.  Gentleness is a witness to unbelievers Believers should never speak evil of anyone, nor be quarrelsome.  Instead they should be gentle and show courtesy to everyone.       Titus 3:27.  Gentleness shows Love  Like Jesus. Husbands, love your wives and be gentle with them.            Colossians 3:19Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger [do not exasperate them to the point of resentment with demands that are trivial or unreasonable or humiliating or abusive; nor by showing favoritism or indifference to any of them], but bring them up [tenderly, with lovingkindness] in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.  Ephesians 6:4 AMPTimes when I can practice gentleness this week:When someone serves meWhen someone disagrees with meWhen someone disappoints meDiscussion Questions:What's one idea from the message that really stood out to you? Why did this idea grab your attention?How does your gentleness grow when you consider what you're called to carry inside of you as a believer in Christ?How have you seen gentleness in yourself, or in someone you know, change when your identity and security was found in Christ?Where do you need to be very intentional in practicing gentleness this week?  With whom?How does the forgiveness and grace shown to us through the cross, help us show the same grace toward others? Thank you for listening to the Relate Community Church podcast! Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode. If today's message spoke to you, share it with a friend or leave us a review to help spread the word. To learn more about Relate Community Church, visit us at www.relatecommunity.com. You are always welcome here, and remember—you are loved

“Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 NLT) Some Christians prefer not to concern themselves with the details of their faith. They may say something like, “I don’t care about theology. I just love Jesus.” That’s a sweet sentiment, but it’s a dangerous one. We need to care about theology. Theology is the study of what God has revealed to us. If we don’t know what God has revealed to us, then we won’t have a spiritual or moral compass to guide us through life. Without a spiritual compass, we may be just slightly off course today, but we’ll be entirely lost in no time at all. Let’s say you board a plane to Hawaii. As you’re buckling your seatbelt and the plane is taxiing down the runway, you hear the captain say, “Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to Flight 232 with service to Honolulu, Hawaii. I’ve been having problems with some of our navigational devices. They seem to be a few degrees off. I’m not really worried about it, though. I think we’ll be okay.” That would be ludicrous. From 35,000 feet in the air, Hawaii is just a speck in the middle of the ocean. I’m always amazed that pilots find it under the best of conditions. If the navigational devices aren’t working properly and the plane is even just a few degrees off, it would be miles off course by the time it’s supposed to land. The same principle applies to our spiritual navigational guide. Without theology, you might be a little off course now, but you’ll be crash-landing at some point. The apostle Paul wrote in Ephesians 2:8: “For by grace you have been saved through faith” (ESV). But our faith is based on compelling evidence from Scripture. The more we understand the big picture of God’s Word and the concepts on which our Christian faith is built, the stronger our faith will grow. What’s more, the better acquainted we are with our spiritual compass, the better able we’ll be to help others find their way. Look at Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 2:15: “Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth” (NLT). You have to know the Word of Truth—and the basic theological principles in it—to be able to explain it correctly. The apostle Peter chimes in with these words: “If someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it” (1 Peter 3:15 NLT). Since you have no way of knowing what someone may ask, you need to have a broad understanding of theology. To be an effective disciple of Jesus, you must know what you believe and why. You must know what God has revealed through His Word and what it means and doesn’t mean. If you don’t know sound theology, you may find yourself further off course spiritually than you ever imagined. Reflection question: How can you become better prepared to explain your hope as a believer? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Philippians 3 (NLT)

The Virgin | Isaiah's Voice | Part 3 This morning, Senior Pastor David Dwight continued our series Isaiah's Voice with a message from Isaiah 7:5–16 (NLT), a powerful passage that anchors this third week of our journey through the book. Isaiah was given a vision of God's glory—and a calling to remind the people of Israel of the Lord's greatness, power, and holiness. But at this point in their story, the Israelites had lost sight of who God truly was. They had constructed a religion of their own making—one void of God's presence and shaped by their own desires. Even so, in His mercy, God offers a promise of rescue. Through Isaiah, He declares a sign of hope: “All right then, the Lord himself will give you the sign. Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God is with us')."

The LORD corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights. [NLT]

DOWNLOAD KEYNOTE SLIDES Summary of “Legacy of Love” (Generated by OpenAI) by Pastor Bryan Hudson, DMin, New Covenant Church In his message “Legacy of Love,” Dr. Bryan Hudson explores the biblical and personal dimensions of legacy, emphasizing that true legacy is not about fame, wealth, or status, but about love, service, and influence. Centering on 1 Corinthians 16:13–14, he urges listeners to be vigilant, courageous, strong, and above all, to do everything with love. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14, (NLT), Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love. Key Themes: Definition of Legacy Legacy is what we leave behind—not only after death, but also while living. It includes tangible things like wealth or memorials, but more importantly, spiritual, moral, and relational influence—values passed on to others. Legacy in Action Dr. Hudson shares a clip from the late Congressman John Lewis, who framed legacy as living boldly, pursuing justice, and building a beloved community. Lewis modeled how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy of love and nonviolence shaped future generations. Legacy as Service and Sacrifice Using Matthew 20:20–23, Hudson contrasts selfish ambition with Christ's model of servant leadership. The disciples' mother sought honor for her sons, but Jesus taught that legacy comes through drinking the “cup” of sacrifice—suffering for love's sake, not seeking positions of prestige. Understanding Suffering Suffering, in biblical terms, is not just physical pain but includes: Resisting temptations we've been delivered from. Maintaining integrity under pressure. Loving and serving others even when it's difficult. Hudson teaches that suffering refines us—perfecting, establishing, strengthening, and settling us (1 Peter 5:10). Personal Testimony and Media Camp He recounts how his Media Camp for youth, launched in 2000, began as a response to a complaint about negative media. God challenged him: “What are you going to do about it?” That led to years of impact, mentoring youth in media and life. Legacy of Family and Example Dr. Hudson honors the legacy of his father and his wife's father, noting how they passed down a life of service. He likens legacy to footprints in the sand—temporary, but they reveal a path for others to follow. Even when the prints fade, the direction remains. Living the Legacy He concludes by encouraging everyone—especially fathers and father-figures—to live out a legacy of love. This legacy isn't self-manufactured; it's manifested by walking in God's light. We don't have to strive for greatness—we need only walk in love and obedience. Confession of Faith: By the grace of God, I will stand firm in the faith, I will be courageous and strong. But most of all, everything I do will be done through Love. No self service, no selfish ambition, only God's purposes fulfilled by Grace. Whatever my station in life, may the Lord continue to let my feet be planted in his path. I will live the legacy, my father, mother, grandparents, and all the people in my family and in life have helped to show me the way forward. I'll take nothing for granted and never fail to give praise to God and thanks to people. Christ has brought me into a place of undeserved privilege where I now stand, and I will confidently joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory with others. Conclusion: Legacy of Love challenges us to live intentionally, to love sacrificially, and to serve faithfully. It's not about being remembered, but about leaving a meaningful path others can follow—empowered by God's grace and rooted in love.

Living in God's Will Pt. 2The Holy Spirit Is Our GuideAs you follow your guide, the Holy Spirit, step by step, you will be living in God's will.Colossians 1:9-12Exodus 13:21Nehemiah 9:19Exodus 15:13Psalm 31:3Psalm 48:14John 10:2-6John 10:27John 16:12-14Romans 8:14Galatians 5:25  (NIV)Galatians 5:25 (NLT)

STAY IN TRUTH AND WIN!2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV) - if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and prayand seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive theirsin and heal their land.Hebrews 3:19 (GNB) – We see, then, that they were not able to enter the land (promise land),because they did not believe.Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do notdeviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everythingyou do. 8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure toobey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.Joshua 1:7–8 (NLT)1 - Be strong and very courageous –2 - Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either tothe right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. 8 Study this Book ofInstruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it.3 - Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do –Joshua – there's one thing must fix before u can enter promise-land……centered in Word of GodJeremiah 1:12 AMP – “I am alert and active, watching over My word to perform it.”Deuteronomy 8:3 (NLT) - He did it to teach you that people do not live by bread alone; rather, we liveby every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.Hebrews 2:1 (TPT) - it is so crucial that we be all the more engaged and attentive to the truths that wehave heard so that we do not drift off course.Matthew 22:29 (NLT) - Jesus replied, “Your mistake is that you don't know the Scriptures, and youdon't know the power of God.As Christian's we can prosper & succeed in all we do…and help bring peace to all theconfusion in our nation….When we are centered in the truth of God's Word.

The day is near when I, the Lord, will judge all godless nations! As you have done to Israel, so it will be done to you. All your evil deeds will fall back on your own heads. (Obadiah 15 NLT).--Chapter Time Stamps:00:00 Intro00:18 Chapter 105:16 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.

Leading with Love; Standing Together. Notes: 1. Dad's, You Matter!!! 2. Show Pics – 2 Pics 3. Dad's, you are the leader. o Joshua 24:15c (NKJV) “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” o Joshua 1:9 (NKJV) 4. Courage - 553. אָמַץ ʾāmaṣ: to be strong, determined, bold, courageous; conquer. 5. A father leads not just with authority, but with spiritual boldness and emotional presence. 6. A father's leadership sets the spiritual tone for the family — but he wasn't designed to walk alone. 7. The Strength of a Wife is to Walk Beside her Husband with Honor. o Genesis 2:18 (NKJV) 8. The best husbands & fathers are often shaped by the prayers, support, and wisdom of a faithful wife. 9. A wife doesn't compete with her Husband; she completes him. o Proverbs 31:11 (NKJV) o Proverbs 31:11 (TPT) 10. The Legacy of Your Unity has to be Built Intentionally. o Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NLT) 11. “Men, lead with courage. Wives, encourage with honor, because together, you carry the legacy of faith for your children.” Need Prayer? Send your prayer requests to: journeychurcheva.com/prayer To give to Journey: journeychurcheva.com/give

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” (Philippians 4:6 NLT) The devil doesn’t want you to know this, but the truth is that you can approach the throne of God any time—twenty-four hours a day. The devil wants us to believe that approaching God in prayer is based on a point system. He wants us to think, If I’ve been a good Christian, I can approach God. But if I’ve sinned, God will never hear my voice. The author of Hebrews counters that lie with these words: “So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most” (Hebrews 4:14–16 NLT). Christians can approach God any time because our relationship with Him isn’t based on what we’ve done for Him. It’s based on what Jesus did for us. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross applies to us when we’re down as well as when we’re up. No matter what our situation is, we have access to go boldly to the throne of God. Nevertheless, the devil wants us to believe that we’re not good enough to pray to God. No doubt that’s what he whispered into Adam’s ear after Adam sinned against the Lord. “Hide when the Lord comes,” he probably said. And when the Lord came into the garden, there was Adam, hiding from God when he should have been seeking Him for forgiveness. The next time you fall into sin, turn to God and go to church for help. All too often we think, I can’t go to church now. Church is for godly people. We need to remember that church is a hospital for sinners. When the devil says you aren’t worthy, don’t hide from God. Run to Him and receive help from Him and His people. The apostle Paul put it another way: “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done” (Philippians 4:6 NLT). You’ll notice there are no restrictions and no fine print on this offer. If you’re not sure what to say to God, let the Holy Spirit guide your thoughts. Look at Paul’s words to the believers in Rome: “And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will” (Romans 8:26–27 NLT). No matter where you are in your Christian life right now—up or down, confident or discouraged, grateful or confused—you can approach the throne of God boldly. You can trust that He will hear and respond to you if you pour your heart out to Him. You will never be offered a more valuable resource. Make the most of it. Reflection question: In what situations are you most and least likely to pray? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bible tells us that every person, both believers and unbelievers, has a divine appointment that we must keep. There is coming a day when you will stand before Christ and be judged for your deeds, discussions, and decisions. In today's study on the Great White Throne Judgment, I would like us to focus on these five questions:1 - How many end-time judgments will there be? 2 - Who will be present at the Great White Throne Judgment? 3 - Will there be an opportunity for forgiveness and mercy? 4 - When will the Great White Throne Judgment take place? 5 - What will happen to those present at the Great White Throne Judgment? Key Scriptures for today's teaching: Revelation 20:11-15Other Scriptures in this study: Matthew 25:31-46; I Corinthians 6:3; Jude 6; John 5:22;Unless otherwise noted, most Scripture will be from the NLT, the New Living TranslationIf you prayed with Tiff, click here https://lostlamb.org/ and let him know! Connect with Tiff Shuttlesworth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LostLambAssociation/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffshuttlesworth/ X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/tiffshuttleswor Learn more about my ministry: https://lostlamb.org/ Learn more about my ministry in Canada: https://www.lostlamb.ca

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16–17 NLT) How do you feel about Bible study? Be honest. Is it a delight? Or is it drudgery? Unfortunately, many of us look at our time in God’s Word as mere drudgery. Perhaps it’s the way we read the Bible. Many of us read God’s Word in a hunt-and-peck method. We read a little here and a little there with no genuine concern for context or what a book of the Bible is teaching. We read the Bible sporadically, and then we can’t understand why we’re unable to benefit from what Scripture teaches. Psalm 1:1–3 says, “Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do” (NLT). The wise person of God meditates on Scripture day and night. The meditation the psalmist refers to isn’t the so-called transcendental meditation, in which people disengage their minds to the point of receiving impressions from elsewhere. The meditation that the Bible advocates deliberately engages the conscious mind with the truths of God’s Word. Meditation involves studying God’s Word with a searching spirit and engaging with what it says. The apostle Paul offered these words to his protégé Timothy: “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16–17 NLT). The potential of Scripture to change our lives is limitless. The question is, how do we harness that potential? How do we get from God’s Word everything He wants us to get? The next time you attempt to meditate on God’s Word, ask yourself these four questions about the passage you’re reading: Is there any sin here for me to avoid? Is there any promise for me to claim? Is there any victory to gain? Is there any blessing to enjoy? When we read Scripture with these questions in mind, we develop a real sense of anticipation. We’re no longer just reading the Bible as though it were a classroom assignment. Instead, we’re showing that we understand the value of God’s Word and are earnestly looking for ways to claim that treasure for ourselves. The more we search, the more we find. That’s why wise believers meditate on Scripture day and night. Reflection question: How can you interact with Scripture in a more personal and profound way? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“You say, ‘I am allowed to do anything’—but not everything is good for you. You say, ‘I am allowed to do anything’—but not everything is beneficial.” (1 Corinthians 10:23 NLT) As Christians, we need to avoid anything in life that will hinder our spiritual growth. To help you mature spiritually, here’s a litmus test that will assist you in identifying what might weigh you down in your spiritual walk. The first question to ask yourself is: Does this thing benefit me spiritually? The apostle Paul wrote to the believers in Corinth, “You say, ‘I am allowed to do anything’—but not everything is good for you. You say, ‘I am allowed to do anything’—but not everything is beneficial” (1 Corinthians 10:23 NLT). Certain things are permissible for us to indulge in—that is, they’re not necessarily sinful. But that doesn’t mean they’re necessarily harmless. They can still weigh us down in our walk with Christ by pulling us away from God and His people or by dulling our hunger for God’s Word. Any pastime or hobby—from fishing to hiking to playing in fantasy sports leagues—could fit this description. There’s nothing wrong with them—in moderation. We’re certainly allowed to do them. But if they start to overrun the boundaries of a pastime or hobby, if they begin to occupy an unhealthy amount of our time and attention, we need to adjust our priorities. And that brings us to the second question: Does this thing bring me under its power? Earlier in his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul wrote, “You say, ‘I am allowed to do anything’—but not everything is good for you. And even though ‘I am allowed to do anything,’ I must not become a slave to anything” (1 Corinthians 6:12 NLT). There are a lot of things that can gain power over us: family, friends, significant others, work responsibilities, goals, and aspirations, just to name a few. None of those things are bad in and of themselves. It’s when they start to dominate our priorities and overshadow other areas of our lives that they become dangerous. That’s when we need to take steps to wrest control back from them. As believers, we want to be under the power of Christ and Christ alone. The final question of our litmus test pertains to the gray areas in life—things that aren’t condemned in Scripture, but also aren’t endorsed. When we face these gray areas, we must ask, Do I have an uneasy conscience about what I am doing? To put it scripturally, when these situations arise, remember the words of Paul: “If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning” (Romans 14:23 NLT). The Holy Spirit is your ally in this area. He communicates to you through your conscience. He gives you discernment and wisdom regarding your “life inventory.” He helps you recognize the things that will help you grow in your Christian faith, as well as the things that will hinder you. Wise Christians constantly take inventory of their lives and avoid whatever aspects of life can hurt their spiritual walk. Be wise and take inventory of your walk with God. Reflection question: What’s an example of something that might be permissible for you, but not necessarily beneficial to your spiritual growth? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed [NLT]

“And hardworking farmers should be the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor.” (2 Timothy 2:6 NLT) Many times, when people feel burned out or overwhelmed, it’s not because God has given them too much to do. It’s because they haven’t spent time with Him. Psalm 91:1 says, “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty” (NLT). Likewise, the apostle Paul wrote, “And hardworking farmers should be the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor” (2 Timothy 2:6 NLT). That simply means you can’t give out what you don’t possess. If you’re going to operate from a position of spiritual strength, you first have to do the things that build your spiritual strength. And at the top of the list of spiritual strength-builders is living in the shelter of the Most High. What does it mean to live in the shelter of the Most High? The Hebrew word translated live in Psalm 91 speaks of a consistent presence. It parallels the New Testament word remain that Jesus used in John 15:5: “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” (NLT, emphasis mine). It means to stay in a given place. Essentially, God is saying, “I don’t merely want a relationship with you. I want fellowship. I want you to come close and to remain consistently in My presence.” What an opportunity—an invitation to rest and recharge while we bask in God’s love and mercy! Who could refuse? Yet many believers do, knowingly or unknowingly, because of the challenge involved. Our culture is wired to discourage the kind of rest God offers. Our time and attention are monopolized by the 24/7 news cycle, an addictive and endless parade of social media timewasters, season after season of programs to binge, and countless other diversions. And that’s in our “down” time! Even when our busyness has a purpose, we need to make sure that it’s being fueled properly. Believers sometimes substitute perspiration for inspiration. We substitute work for worship. We get so busy doing Christian things with Christian people in the Christian church that we forget about Christ. Did you know that’s possible? I ask you today, are you living in the shelter of the Most High? There’s a time and place for Christian work. But the best Christian work will always overflow from a life of worship. That work can never take the place of worship. Because it’s in worship, in spending purposeful time in God’s presence, that we become equipped to carry out God’s work. If you want to grow in your Christian faith, and make a difference for God’s kingdom, make sure you’re spending consistent, quality time in God’s presence. That’s the place where life-changing things happen. Reflection question: What would living in the shelter of the Most High look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:31–32 NLT) Frederic the Great, the king of Prussia, once visited a prison and talked with each of the inmates. He heard countless tales of innocence, exploitation, and misunderstood motives. If the prisoners were to be believed, no one in the prison was guilty. Each convict had been framed or set up. Finally, the king stopped at the cell of a convict who stared at him silently. Frederic said, “Well, I suppose you are an innocent victim, too.” “No, sir,” the prisoner replied, “I’m not. I am guilty, and I deserve my punishment.” Turning to the warden, Frederic said, “Quick, get this man out of here before he corrupts these other innocent people.” Frederic the Great couldn’t believe he had found an honest man—someone who would own up to what he had done wrong. Do you need to own up to something you’ve done? Or are you playing the blame game, as the prisoners did? It’s a tempting strategy—and a popular one. When politicians, public officials, or celebrities get caught doing something wrong, they all seem to have ready-made stories about their innocence and about the involvement of others. They’re only too happy to point fingers. Paul’s words in Ephesians 4:31–32 give us insight into God’s attitude toward finger-pointing—that is, get rid of it. Charles Swindoll summarized blame this way: “Blame never affirms, it assaults. Blame never restores, it wounds. Blame never solves, it complicates. Blame never unites, it separates. Blame never smiles, it frowns. Blame never forgives, it rejects. Blame never forgets, it remembers. Blame never builds, it destroys.” We could add to that list, “Blame never convinces God; it makes you look bad in His eyes.” In Psalm 139:7–8, David wrote, “I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there” (NLT). His point is that nothing can be hidden from God. God sees everything. He doesn’t look in another direction when you point fingers because He already knows what you’ve done. Spiritually speaking, blame is a stall tactic. You blame others because you don’t want to own up to your guilt. Maybe it’s pride that causes you to look for scapegoats; maybe it’s denial. Whatever the cause, the longer you insist on blaming others and denying your guilt, the longer your guilt disrupts your relationship with your heavenly Father. The apostle John wrote, “If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth. But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. If we claim we have not sinned, we are calling God a liar and showing that his word has no place in our hearts” (1 John 1:8–10 NLT). God already knows what you’ve done. And He stands ready to forgive and forget it. Sooner or later, you have to say, “I have sinned. I have done wrong. The problem is me.” The moment you stop blaming and accept full responsibility for your actions is the moment you start to heal. Reflection question: How do you avoid the temptation to blame others when you do wrong? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“The Spirit of Pentecost”  “HE WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT AND WITH FIRE!” Matthew 3:11b NLT  “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), to be with you forever— the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive [and take to its heart] […]

What does it really mean to follow God wholeheartedly? In this special Sunday evening message, Pastor Gavin Tait shares a timely word about faith, obedience, and trust in the face of uncertainty.Scriptures referenced in this message:· Numbers 14:1-9, 22-24 NIV· Mark 12:28-30 NLT· 2 Chronicles 16:9 NLT· 2 Chronicles 16:9 NKJV· Romans 4:18-22 NIVLearn more about Pastor Gavin Tait's ministry.Learn more about salvation, info about Destiny Church, or how to give by visiting our website.Real | Relevant | Relationship

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7 NLT) One day, when I was a small boy living in New Jersey, I was walking around my neighborhood with a newly acquired pair of cowboy cap guns. I was feeling pretty tough. I had my little belt on with my holsters and guns. As I walked, I practiced my fast draw, pulling out my pistols and firing away. Before long, a couple of hoodlums saw me and said, “Hey, you, come over here.” They started pushing me around and laughing at me. And then they did the unthinkable. They took my guns. All I could do was go home crying with empty holsters. When I got home, I found my half-brother, who was five years older and a lot bigger than I was. I asked him, “Would you help me get my guns back?” Together, we went back to the scene of the crime, where the hoodlums were still playing with my guns. With great courage, I stepped forward and said, “Give me my guns back!” I was feeling tough again. It wasn’t because I was suddenly stronger. It was because my brother was with me. If those guys gave me a problem, my brother would take care of them. I had courage not because of who I was, but because of who was with me. As we get older, we may outgrow certain fears, but we never outgrow fear itself. We just become frightened by different things. Fear is an overwhelming emotion that takes hold of us and causes us to act with complete irrationality. In fact, we’re often more devastated by the experience of fear than by the thing we’re afraid of. But God says that we don’t have to be afraid—because He is with us. In fact, He says it in several different places in the Bible. Someone once calculated that the words fear not, or some variation of them, appear 366 times in Scripture. That’s one for every day of the year, plus leap year day! Joshua 1:9 is a perfect example: “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (NLT). For believers, those words are literal. The Holy Spirit dwells within every Christian. He never leaves us. The apostle Paul wrote, “Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16 NLT). You don’t have to go get Him and bring Him back with you to confront what’s scaring you. He’s always there, inside you. That’s why the apostle Paul was able to write with confidence, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7 NLT). If we embrace the Holy Spirit’s presence and measure God’s power against whatever it is that frightens us, we can overcome any fear. Reflection question: What is your best strategy for dealing with fear? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Miller - This month, we're responding to your questions! These teachings are in response to questions submitted by the members of South Bend City Church. Today, we're responding to questions about the Bible.  Resources Bible Translations: NIV, NLT, NRSV, The Message, Hebrew Bible (Robert Alter), and The New Testament (David Bentley Hart) Podcast: The Bible for Normal People Online resource: Bible Gateway What's Happening Register for the Art for Everybody Screening and Panel happening on June 19 at 6:30p. Sabbath Sunday on July 6 (church is closed June 30-July 6) Join us at one of the Telos American South Interest Meetings on Sunday, June 15 or June 22 at 10:15a.

In this kickoff episode of the Galatians Challenge for Mormons, we dive into chapter 1 of Paul's letter to the Galatians—a bold defense of the one true gospel. Paul says even if an angel preaches another message, let him be cursed. Sound familiar? We explore the striking parallels between Paul's warning and Joseph Smith's claims about receiving the “fullness of the gospel” from the angel Moroni.We also examine Paul's background as a Pharisee, how the early church responded to his conversion, and why that response stands in stark contrast to Joseph Smith's rejection of all existing churches. This episode challenges listeners to consider: Are you following the gospel revealed by Jesus—or a different one?

In this kickoff episode of the Galatians Challenge for Mormons, we dive into chapter 1 of Paul's letter to the Galatians—a bold defense of the one true gospel. Paul says even if an angel preaches another message, let him be cursed. Sound familiar? We explore the striking parallels between Paul's warning and Joseph Smith's claims about receiving the “fullness of the gospel” from the angel Moroni.We also examine Paul's background as a Pharisee, how the early church responded to his conversion, and why that response stands in stark contrast to Joseph Smith's rejection of all existing churches. This episode challenges listeners to consider: Are you following the gospel revealed by Jesus—or a different one?

Nehemiah 4 NIV4 [a]Sanballat was very angry when he learned that we were rebuilding the wall. He flew into a rage and mocked the Jews, 2 saying in front of his friends and the Samarian army officers, “What does this bunch of poor, feeble Jews think they're doing? Do they think they can build the wall in a single day by just offering a few sacrifices?[b] Do they actually think they can make something of stones from a rubbish heap—and charred ones at that?”3 Tobiah the Ammonite, who was standing beside him, remarked, “That stone wall would collapse if even a fox walked along the top of it!”4 Then I prayed, “Hear us, our God, for we are being mocked. May their scoffing fall back on their own heads, and may they themselves become captives in a foreign land! 5 Do not ignore their guilt. Do not blot out their sins, for they have provoked you to anger here in front of[c] the builders.”6 At last the wall was completed to half its height around the entire city, for the people had worked with enthusiasm.7 [d]But when Sanballat and Tobiah and the Arabs, Ammonites, and Ashdodites heard that the work was going ahead and that the gaps in the wall of Jerusalem were being repaired, they were furious. 8 They all made plans to come and fight against Jerusalem and throw us into confusion. 9 But we prayed to our God and guarded the city day and night to protect ourselves.10 Then the people of Judah began to complain, “The workers are getting tired, and there is so much rubble to be moved. We will never be able to build the wall by ourselves.”11 Meanwhile, our enemies were saying, “Before they know what's happening, we will swoop down on them and kill them and end their work.”12 The Jews who lived near the enemy came and told us again and again, “They will come from all directions and attack us!”[e] 13 So I placed armed guards behind the lowest parts of the wall in the exposed areas. I stationed the people to stand guard by families, armed with swords, spears, and bows.14 Then as I looked over the situation, I called together the nobles and the rest of the people and said to them, “Don't be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes!”15 When our enemies heard that we knew of their plans and that God had frustrated them, we all returned to our work on the wall. 16 But from then on, only half my men worked while the other half stood guard with spears, shields, bows, and coats of mail. The leaders stationed themselves behind the people of Judah 17 who were building the wall. The laborers carried on their work with one hand supporting their load and one hand holding a weapon. 18 All the builders had a sword belted to their side. The trumpeter stayed with me to sound the alarm.19 Then I explained to the nobles and officials and all the people, “The work is very spread out, and we are widely separated from each other along the wall. 20 When you hear the blast of the trumpet, rush to wherever it is sounding. Then our God will fight for us!”21 We worked early and late, from sunrise to sunset. And half the men were always on guard. 22 I also told everyone living outside the walls to stay in Jerusalem. That way they and their servants could help with guard duty at night and work during the day. 23 During this time, none of us—not I, nor my relatives, nor my servants, nor the guards who were with me—ever took off our clothes. We carried our weapons with us at all times, even when we went for water.[f]

FEED YOUR FAITHHebrews 3:19 (GNB) – We see, then, that they were not able to enter the land (promise land),because they did not believe.Exodus 6:6–8 (NLT) – “‘I am the Lord. I will free you from your oppression and will rescue you fromyour slavery in Egypt. I will redeem you with a powerful arm and great acts of judgment. 7 I will claimyou as my own people, and I will be your God… 8 I will bring you into the land I swore to give toAbraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I will give it to you as your very own possession. I am the Lord!' ”1. Delivered from Egypt…bondage & oppression2. Red Sea…baptized…old life is dead…new beginning3. Cloud by day…Fire by night…..Presence of God with them4. Manna…miracle provision…daily dependence5. Mt Sinai… place of instruction & preparation for the Promise LandExodus 23:20,27 (NIV) – See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and tobring you to the place I have prepared. 27 I will send my terror ahead of you and throw into confusionevery nation you encounter. I will make all your enemies turn their backs and run.Exodus 33:14 (NCV) – “I myself will go with you, and I will give you victory.”6. Kadesh…entrance to Promise Land10 Spies Report – the promise land is amazing…..BUT!!!Numbers 13:27–29 (NLT) – This was their report to Moses: “We entered the land you sent us toexplore, and it is indeed a bountiful country—a land flowing with milk and honey. Here is the kind offruit it produces. 28 But the people living there are powerful, and their towns are large and fortified. Weeven saw giants there… 29 The Amalekites live in the Negev, and the Hittites, Jebusites, and Amoriteslive in the hill country. The Canaanites live along the coast …”Caleb – speaks in faithNumbers 13:30 (NLT) – But Caleb tried to quiet the people as they stood before Moses. “Let's go atonce to take the land,” he said. “We can certainly conquer it!”10 Spies – speak in unbeliefNumbers 13:31–33 (NLT) – But the other men who had explored the land with him disagreed. “Wecan't go up against them! They are stronger than we are!” 32 So they spread this bad report aboutthe land among the Israelites: “The land we traveled through and explored will devour anyone whogoes to live there. All the people we saw were huge. 33 We even saw giants there…Next to them wefelt like grasshoppers, and that's what they thought, too!”(NKJV) – we were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight.”2 Corinthians‬Unbelief speaks – “we are going to die and God doesn't care”Numbers 14:1–4 (NLT) – Then the whole community began weeping aloud, and they cried all night. 2Their voices rose in a great chorus of protest against Moses and Aaron. “If only we had died in Egypt,or even here in the wilderness!” they complained. 3 “Why is the Lord taking us to this country only tohave us die in battle? Our wives and our little ones will be carried off as plunder! Wouldn't it be betterfor us to return to Egypt?” 4 Then they plotted among themselves, “Let's choose a new leader and goback to Egypt!”Faith speaks - “God is with us, we can take the land”Numbers 14:6–9 (NLT) – Two of the men who had explored the land, Joshua son of Nun and Calebson of Jephunneh, tore their clothing. 7 They said to all the people of Israel, “The land we traveledthrough and explored is a wonderful land! 8 And if the Lord is pleased with us, he will bring us safelyinto that land and give it to us. It is a rich land flowing with milk and honey. 9 Do not rebel against theLord, and don't be afraid of the people of the land. They are only helpless prey to us! They have noprotection, but the Lord is with us! Don't be afraid of them!”Results of Faith & Unbelief Unbelief Results – Entire generation did not enter promise land Faith Results – Only Joshua & Caleb entered Promise LandRomans 10:17 (NKJV) - faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.Hebrews 4:2 (NASB) – but the word they heard did not benefit them, because they were not unitedwith those who listened with faith.Hebrews 2:1 (TPT) - it is so crucial that we be all the more engaged and attentive to the truths thatwe have heard so that we do not drift off course.Hebrews 3:12 (NKJV) – Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief indeparting from the living God.Romans‬Living by faith - simply believing what God said in his word…speaking it & acting on it.TWO THINGS HAPPEN WHEN WE FEED OUR FAITH1… WE WILL SEE THE PROMISES OF GOD FULFILLED IN OUR LIFE……BLESSED LIFE2… OUR BLESSED LIFE WILL BE A WITNESS TO THE WORLD

And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. John 14:16 NLT The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. Genesis 1:2 NLTThe plans of God are carried out by the authority of the Father, the work and word of the Son, and the power of the Holy Spirit!But when the Father sends the Advocate (comforter) as my representative, that is the Holy Spirit, he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. John 14:26 NLTNevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment. John 16:7- 8 ESV Holy Spirit is God with us always! When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth… for he will take what is mine and declare it to you…. John 16:13 & 15 NLTThe works of Christ and the Cross are accomplished by the power of the Holy Spirit working in us.On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability. At that time there were devout Jews from every nation living in Jerusalem. When they heard the loud noise, everyone came running, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers. They were completely amazed. “How can this be?” they exclaimed. “These people are all from Galilee, and yet we hear them speaking in our own native languages! Here we are Parthians, Medes, Elamites, people from Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, the province of Asia, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, and the areas of Libya around Cyrene, visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism), Cretans, and Arabs. And we all hear these people speaking in our own languages about the wonderful things God has done!” Acts 2:1-11 NLTThis encounter with Holy Spirit was a once off, but a normal part of the New Testament narrative! Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” he asked them.“No,” they replied, “we haven't even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” Acts 19:2 NLTGod also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will. Hebrews 2:4 ESVAll these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines. 1 Corinthians 12:11 NIVBut when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the flesh. Galatians 5:16 NLTWhere the Spirit of the Lord is there is Freedom! 2 Corinthians 3:17The gifts of the Holy Spirit will always enhance and empower the fruit of the Spirit!But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Galatians 5:22 NLTWhen the gifts of the spirit are evident and active, the fruit of the spirit is beautiful and bountiful.  

And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. John 14:16 NLT The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. Genesis 1:2 NLTThe plans of God are carried out by the authority of the Father, the work and word of the Son, and the power of the Holy Spirit!But when the Father sends the Advocate (comforter) as my representative, that is the Holy Spirit, he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. John 14:26 NLTNevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment. John 16:7- 8 ESV Holy Spirit is God with us always! When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth… for he will take what is mine and declare it to you…. John 16:13 & 15 NLTThe works of Christ and the Cross are accomplished by the power of the Holy Spirit working in us.On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability. At that time there were devout Jews from every nation living in Jerusalem. When they heard the loud noise, everyone came running, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers. They were completely amazed. “How can this be?” they exclaimed. “These people are all from Galilee, and yet we hear them speaking in our own native languages! Here we are Parthians, Medes, Elamites, people from Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, the province of Asia, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, and the areas of Libya around Cyrene, visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism), Cretans, and Arabs. And we all hear these people speaking in our own languages about the wonderful things God has done!” Acts 2:1-11 NLTThis encounter with Holy Spirit was a once off, but a normal part of the New Testament narrative! Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” he asked them.“No,” they replied, “we haven't even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” Acts 19:2 NLTGod also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will. Hebrews 2:4 ESVAll these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines. 1 Corinthians 12:11 NIVBut when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the flesh. Galatians 5:16 NLTWhere the Spirit of the Lord is there is Freedom! 2 Corinthians 3:17The gifts of the Holy Spirit will always enhance and empower the fruit of the Spirit!But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Galatians 5:22 NLTWhen the gifts of the spirit are evident and active, the fruit of the spirit is beautiful and bountiful.  

In my 50 years of carefully and systematically studying the Bible, I am thoroughly convinced that the doctrine of the rapture is not only securely established in the scripture, I am equally convinced that the rapture will take place before God's outpouring of wrath before the seven years of tribulation.As long as I continue to see the increasing assault against the doctrine of the rapture, I will continue to answer the questions and confusions that are created.In our study today, I would like to point out three significant biblical concepts that provide secure evidence for the doctrine of the rapture, as well as provide three glaring problems for those who disavow the doctrine of the rapture:Problem #1 - The Scripture teaches Christ's return in two distinct and separate events.Problem #2 - Jesus described His return to, the days of Noah and Lot.Problem #3 - Every example in the Scripture provides evidence for the righteous being separated and spared from God's wrath.------------------Key Scriptures for today's teaching: 2 Peter 2:5-9Other Scriptures in this study: Genesis 18:25; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17; Jude 14-15; Zechariah 14:4; Luke 17:26-30; Romans 5:9Unless otherwise noted, most Scripture will be from the NLT, the New Living TranslationIf you prayed with Tiff, click here https://lostlamb.org/ and let him know! Be sure to watch the curated playlist “New Beginnings” - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsX8E19Azl58_FjxELPxjnsL8CAtmama4&si=Pj84Hm2dGX57OH4Z Thank you for watching, and subscribe for new content each week.Connect with Tiff Shuttlesworth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LostLambAssociation/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TIFFSHUTTLESWORTH/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/tiffshuttlesworLearn more about my ministry: https://lostlamb.org/ Learn more about my ministry in Canada: https://www.lostlamb.ca

“Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.” (1 Timothy 4:16 NLT) Have you ever fallen unexpectedly? It happened to me several years ago. I was riding my bike on my way to meet my wife at a restaurant for breakfast. Unbeknownst to me, someone had loosened the levers that held the front tire on my bike. As I was crossing a street and approaching the curb, I pulled up on the handlebars. The handlebars and wheel forks pulled up with me. The wheel did not. I ran into the curb, went over the front of the bike, and hit the ground face-first. I didn’t know it was coming, so I didn’t have time to brace myself for the fall. I blacked out for a few seconds. When I came to, some fellow was standing over me. He asked, “Are you okay?” I said I was fine. I wasn’t fine. I was bloodied and bruised. It’s hard to be fine after a fall you didn’t see coming. It’s tempting to say that the same thing applies to unexpected spiritual falls. But I suggest to you that when people fall away from the Lord—when they crash and burn, spiritually speaking—there are always steps leading up to the event. Maybe the people involved weren’t fully aware of the steps, but that doesn’t change the fact that those steps were taking place. We need to realize that nobody falls away overnight or immediately. There’s always a process that unfolds over a period of time. The apostle Paul urged his protégé Timothy not to allow such a process to get started in his life. His words apply to every believer. “Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you” (1 Timothy 4:16 NLT). We must talk the talk and walk the walk. Our words and actions should bring glory to God. People should be able to see Jesus’ life-changing impact in us. We do that by staying true to what is right—that is, studying, understanding, and applying God’s Word. Sometimes we get careless in our approach to Scripture. We listen to people who have ulterior motives in their interpretation of the Bible. We try to stretch God’s Word to fit our political or social agendas. Keep in mind, though, that the serpent’s temptation of Eve in the Garden of Eden began with four seemingly harmless words: “Did God really say . . . ?” (Genesis 3:1 NLT). If your enemy can put distance between you and God’s Word, or if he can cause you to doubt or twist what Scripture is really saying, he can make you vulnerable to attack. He can prime you for a fall. You can maintain your spiritual balance by holding fast to God’s Word. If you support yourself with His truths, you can walk with confidence. Reflection question: In what areas do you need to watch your step, spiritually speaking? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The biggest Gleek and NLT fan is on the Pod! Singer-songwriter Betty Who is bringing the heat this summer with her 'Out of the Darkness Tour,' but first, a pit stop with Jenna and Kevin to talk about her song "Somebody Loves You" being featured on Glee's sixth season! She shares how she found out her single was going to be used on the show, her obsession with NLT (Kevin's boy band), her big Broadway debut, and the biggest revelation ever!! She auditioned for Glee! Hear all about the 'Tina' inspired song she sang, what she told the Glee team they needed on the show, and what it was like meeting the cast! Betty's new single "Sweat" is out now, and for tickets to see her on tour, visit BettyWhoMusic.com! For fun, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes scoops, be sure to follow on Instagram @andthatswhatyoureallymissedpod! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near.” (2 Timothy 4:6 NLT) When you take a trip, you have to leave at a certain time. If your flight departs at 8 o’clock, you have to account for traffic, parking, getting through security, and finding your gate. You need to allow time for all of them. You have to prepare for your departure if you want to arrive at your destination as planned. Of course, how you approach your departure will depend on how you feel about your destination. I remember taking a trip to North Carolina that I wasn’t looking forward to. The weather there was hot and very humid. And I had a three-hour layover in Chicago. It’s safe to say that I wasn’t eagerly anticipating the trip. The very next week, however, I was scheduled to fly to Hawaii. And I was eagerly anticipating that trip. It all comes down to destination for me. If I’m going to a place I don’t want to go to, I dread the trip. But if I’m going to a place I do want to go, I look forward to the trip. I don’t mind the travel, even if I’m sitting in coach with a person in front of me fully reclined. It’s okay. The destination makes everything else worth the journey. In 2 Timothy 4:6, the apostle Paul was anticipating a different kind of departure. “As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near” (NLT). Paul had lived a remarkably dangerous life. He offered a glimpse of it in 2 Corinthians 11:24–27: Five different times the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea. I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not. 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) Yet, through it all, there’s no indication in Scripture that Paul ever thought the time of his death was near. Until 2 Timothy 4:6. There’s no trace of sadness or regret in his announcement—only victory. In the next verse, he declared, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful” (NLT). More importantly, Paul was excited about his destination. He wrote in 2 Corinthians 5:8, “Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord” (NLT). Are you excited about your ultimate destination? Will you leave this life with a sense of accomplishment and victory? If you trust in Christ as Savior and Lord, you can approach death with the confidence, assurance, and excitement that Paul had. Reflection question: What is your attitude toward death? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7–8 NLT) While reading the newspaper one morning, Alfred Nobel, the Swedish chemist and engineer, was shocked to find his name listed in the obituary column. It was a mistake, of course, but there it was. Nobel was dismayed to see that he was remembered primarily as the man who invented dynamite. At that point in history, dynamite was being used to great and devastating effect in warfare. Nobel was distressed to think that he would be known for creating an instrument of death and destruction. He was so distressed, in fact, that he decided to change the course of his life as a result of reading this mistaken obituary. He decided to commit himself to world peace. He established the Nobel Peace Prize. Today, most people who know the name Alfred Nobel associate him with that prize. Many know nothing about his invention of dynamite. That’s because Alfred Nobel had the chance to change the course of his life. What if you had the unsettling opportunity to read your own obituary? What do you think you’d be remembered for? What if you could write your own obituary? What would you like to be remembered for? It’s not too late to change the course of your life if you want to. In 2 Timothy 4:7–8, the apostle Paul offers an obituary of sorts for himself. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing” (NLT). Keep in mind that Paul transformed the world that he lived in. He was used mightily by God to establish churches throughout the Roman Empire and beyond. He left countless converts in his wake. He mentored young Christian leaders. He fearlessly proclaimed the gospel to philosophers, Pharisees, rulers, soldiers, sorcerers, slaves, and possibly even Caesar himself. In the end, though, he saw himself as a wrestler, someone who fought spiritual battles with all his might; a runner, someone who finished the race despite pain and exhaustion; and a soldier, someone who guarded the truth of the gospel with his life. If your life were to end today, would you be able to say that you’ve fought the good fight, finished the race, and guarded the faith in the way that you live? If so, then Paul’s reward—“the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return” (NLT)—will be yours as well. Reflection question: What would you like your obituary to read? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Day 2644 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2644 – New Testament Orientation – Jesus' Message to Gentiles and Jews - the Cross Putnam Church Message – 06/01/2025 Sermon Series: New Testament Orientation Message 6: “Jesus' Message to Gentiles & Jews - the Cross”   Last week, we explored The Four Gospels - Four Witnesses to the King Core Verses: Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT) This week is Sermon: 6 of 12 Title: Jesus' Message to Gentiles & Jews - the Cross Core Verses: Hebrews 3:1-2 Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT) Core Verses: Hebrews 3:1-2 (NLT) “And so, dear brothers and sisters who belong to God and are partners with those called to heaven, think carefully about Jesus, the Apostle and High Priest of our faith. For he was faithful to God who appointed him, just as Moses had been faithful in all God's house.” Opening Prayer Our Gracious and Holy Father, we come before You this day with hearts open and minds eager to receive Your truth. As we gather to explore the profound message of Your Son, Jesus, we pray that your Holy Spirit will illuminate our understanding. May we grasp the depth of His faithfulness, the power of His victory, and the boundless love extended to all—Jew and Gentile alike—through His sacrifice on the cross. Guide our thoughts, stir our spirits, and transform our lives, we pray, in the precious name of Jesus. Amen. Introduction: The Unveiling of a King's Message As we continue on this incredible journey through the New Testament! We are now in our sixth week, and today, we stand at a pivotal juncture, peering into the very heart of Jesus' mission. If you could have walked up to Jesus, as many did, and asked, “What are you about? What is your core message?” what would He have said? Today, we will explore four crucial aspects of His message—ideas that might not always get the attention they deserve, but are foundational to understanding Jesus, His kingdom, and the radical inclusion He brought to all nations. We'll speak of Jesus' faithfulness, His decisive victory over demonic powers, the revolutionary relationship between Jew and Gentile forged in Him, and finally, the profound meaning of the cross. (Bulletin Insert) Jesus' Faithfulness: A Quiet Carpenter's Perfect Obedience Our journey begins with a look at Jesus' faithfulness, a quality often overlooked amidst the dazzling miracles and powerful teachings. The writer of Hebrews—a sermon in itself—highlights this in our core verses today: “He was faithful to God who appointed him, just as Moses had been faithful in all God's house” (Hebrews 3:2, NLT). Imagine Jesus, not as the public figure we know from His ministry, but as a young man in Nazareth. For nearly 30 years, He lived a quiet life as a carpenter, the son of a carpenter. There were no public miracles, no grand sermons, just the humble rhythm of daily life. And yet, when He emerges for His public baptism, the heavens declare, “And a voice from heaven said, “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy.” (Matthew 3:17, NLT). What was God pleased

“Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked.” (1 Timothy 1:19 NLT) Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes, was a bit of a practical joker. One day, he jotted notes to twelve of his friends and sent them off with no name signed to them. On the notes he wrote these words: “Flee at once—all is discovered.” Within twenty-four hours, all twelve of the people who received the notes had left the country. Doyle got a big laugh out of showing what happens when people have guilty consciences. Your conscience may be the most overlooked part of you. If you did a quick online search, you’d find hundreds of articles and tips for keeping your heart healthy. Or improving your memory. Or protecting your skin. Or taking care of other important parts of your body. But what about your conscience? The apostle Paul emphasized its importance when he gave this advice to Timothy for choosing deacons: “They must be committed to the mystery of the faith now revealed and must live with a clear conscience” (1 Timothy 3:9 NLT). Everyone has a conscience. In Romans 2:14–15, Paul said, “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” (NLT). Not everyone appreciates their conscience. Some people treat it like a nagging companion who always starts complaining just when things begin to get fun. They learn to ignore or disable it. And that’s a huge mistake. Paul warned in 1 Timothy 4:2 about people whose “consciences are dead” (NLT). Your conscience is actually one of the most valuable gifts God has given you. You don’t have to guess at what’s right or wrong. You can sense it, deep in your heart, thanks to your God-given conscience. Let’s look at one more warning from Paul to Timothy: “Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked” (1 Timothy 1:19 NLT). Many believers spend a lot of time trying to discover God’s will for their lives. But in most cases, it’s not a one-time reveal. It’s the dozens of daily decisions we make that bring us closer to Him. Every day we’re given choices to do right or wrong. Every time we choose to do right, to obey God—using our conscience—we grow closer to Him. The closer we are to Him, the better we can see the doors He opens and closes. The closer we are to Him, the better we can sense His leading in key situations. The closer we are to Him, the better we can recognize His hand in the events around us. If you want to discover God’s will for your life, stay close to Him and keep your conscience clear. Reflection question: What can you do to keep your conscience performing at a high level? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this collection of stories about sheep, you'll learn that Jesus is our Good Shepherd and that He leads us, protects us and provides for us. You'll also learn that the devil can be like a wolf in sheep's clothing who tries to trick us into not following our Good Shepherd, Jesus! “I Am the Good Shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know Me, just as My Father knows Me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice My life for the sheep.” John‬ ‭10‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭NLT‬‬ #kids, #christiankids, #bedtimestoriesforkids, #storiesforchristiankids, #biblestoriesforkids, #biblelessonsforkids, #jesusmygoodshepherd, #jesusislord, #salvationthroughjesuschrist, #believeonjesus, #fishbytesforkids, #fishbytes4kids, #fishbitesforkids, #fishbites4kids, #ronandcarriewebb, #roncarriewebb

A Scripture meditation using Lectio Divina. Meditate on how to stand strong in our spiritual battles with Ephesians 6:10, 13–17 Get your FREE Unshakable Journal here. We all face spiritual battles. Some are loud and obvious. Others are subtle and wear us down over time. In either case, we were never meant to fight in our own strength. In this week’s Scripture meditation, we reflect on Ephesians 6:10, 13–17, where Paul gives us a powerful reminder: we are called to stand firm, not because we are strong, but because God is. This isn’t a call to strive harder. It’s a call to be equipped. To recognize our vulnerabilities and take up the armor God provides so we can remain unshakable when the enemy attacks. This is the fifth episode in our series: Unshakable: Strength for Today, Hope for Tomorrow. Each week, we’re turning to Scripture to help us rely on God’s strength and remain grounded in His truth. In this meditation on Unshakable in God’s Power, you’ll be invited to:• Reflect on where you may feel vulnerable to spiritual attack• Notice which piece of God’s armor you may need to strengthen• Learn what each piece of armor represents and how it helps you stand firm• Consider one practical step to take today toward walking in God’s strength• Rest in the truth that you are not alone—God is with you, and He is your strength Whether you’re in the middle of a battle or simply preparing for one, may this time in God’s Word remind you that His power is more than enough. Get your FREE Unshakable Journal here. Here are some additional helpful links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. The Entire meditation text is: Ephesians 6:10, 13-17, NLT 10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Facing a sudden or chronic health diagnosis can be emotionally paralyzing, opening the door to worry, fear, and discouragement. In this moving devotional, Kristine Brown shares a deeply personal encounter with anxiety after receiving unsettling medical news. Her vulnerability points us back to the only source of true comfort and strength—Jesus Christ. Drawing from Philippians 4:6–7, Kristine reminds us that God’s peace is not only possible—it’s promised to those who turn to Him in prayer. Whether you’re the one enduring physical struggles or walking alongside a loved one, this message invites you to release fear and embrace the surpassing peace of Christ.