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“When Jesus had finished saying all these things, he said to his disciples, ‘As you know, Passover begins in two days, and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified.’” (Matthew 26:1–2 NLT) At the same time Jesus was breaking the news of His imminent death to His disciples, the leading priests and elders plotting His death were trying to work around a snag in their plans. Jesus was still popular with the Jewish people. (Their meeting was taking place only three days after Jesus’ triumphant arrival on Palm Sunday.) Complicating things even further was the fact that Passover was one of the holiest celebrations on the Jewish calendar. Executing someone many people believed to be the Messiah during Passover was a good way to start a riot. And a riot was the last thing the Jewish religious leaders wanted. Their goal was to maintain the status quo. The Romans were extremely tolerant of Jewish worship practices. Roman leaders understood that respecting the religious traditions and customs of conquered territories promoted stability in the empire. As long as things remained peaceful and orderly—and taxes were paid, of course—the Romans were content to let the Jewish priests and elders lead as they saw fit. Jesus threatened not only the status quo with Rome but also the leadership of the priests and elders. Throughout His ministry, He challenged their authority and exposed their hypocrisy. As He neared the end of His earthly ministry, Jesus became bolder in His challenges. He was forcing their hand so that they had no choice but to kill Him. Their task was made easier by the help of someone in Jesus’ inner circle. “Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, went to the leading priests and asked, ‘How much will you pay me to betray Jesus to you?’ And they gave him thirty pieces of silver. From that time on, Judas began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus” (Matthew 26:14–16 NLT). The Bible doesn’t say why Judas betrayed Jesus—only that “Satan entered into” him. What we do know is that Judas regretted his decision. When he heard that Jesus had been condemned to death, he hanged himself. The blood money he received was used to buy a potter’s field. Judas’ betrayal may seem like the ultimate surprise plot twist—the blindside that no one saw coming. But there’s one problem with that interpretation: His betrayal was prophesied centuries before it happened. David wrote, “Even my best friend, the one I trusted completely, the one who shared my food, has turned against me” (Psalm 41:9 NLT). The prophet Zechariah wrote, “And I said to them, ‘If you like, give me my wages, whatever I am worth; but only if you want to.’ So they counted out for my wages thirty pieces of silver. And the Lord said to me, ‘Throw it to the potter’—this magnificent sum at which they valued me! So I took the thirty coins and threw them to the potter in the Temple of the Lord” (Zechariah 11:12–13 NLT). Everything that led to Jesus’ death on the cross was carefully orchestrated by God. It was all part of His perfect plan of salvation. And it was driven by His amazing love for us. Reflection question: Why is it sometimes hard to see God’s plan at work? 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.

Thank you for joining us for Christian Faith Center's Sermon of the week. This message is from our Nampa Location. Pastor Jordan continues his series BEHOLD. The incarnation! God becoming flesh! Such a central and powerful part of our doctrine and beliefs!As we look at these few passages, rich with meaning and emotion, I see a few things I want to point out today!Luke 2:1-7 (NLT): At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. 2 (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. 4 And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David's ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. 5 He took with him Mary, to whom he was engaged, who was now expecting a child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. 7 She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.

November 10 2024 Sunday Week 28 / Your Place In Him / T. Stacy Hayes #findoutwhoyouare My Vision My vision is to teach the world Who They Are In Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior! To Teach them what the Bible says about them and who they have been made to be in the promises of God's Word. This changed my life years ago and completely transformed me from a person full of doubt, fear and unbelief to a strong confident Christian that knows I can do anything through Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. And I'm determined to teach the world what God has taught and commissioned me to teach and that is His Word.  That commission takes me to jails and detention centers weekly along with other open doors at many churches and ministries that are wanting to teach these important truths to the world. My podcast goes out 6 days a week to help the people I am ministering to grow in the truths that God has taught me for many years now. This podcast is free to all that want to listen and grow strong in who God has made them to be in Christ Jesus their Lord and Savior. Isaiah 53:5  Healing… Matthew 18:19  Agree with God's Word… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Acts 10:34  God is no respecter of persons… “He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.” John 6:56 KJV “Anyone who eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him.” John 6:56 NLT “He who feeds on My flesh and drinks My blood dwells continually in Me, and I [in like manner dwell continually] in him.” John 6:56 AMPC “At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.” John 14:20 KJV “When I am raised to life again, you will know that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you.” John 14:20 NLT “At that time [when that day comes] you will know [for yourselves] that I am in My Father, and you [are] in Me, and I [am] in you.” John 14:20 AMPC “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:4-5 KJV “Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:4-5 NLT “Dwell in Me, and I will dwell in you. [Live in Me, and I will live in you.] Just as no branch can bear fruit of itself without abiding in (being vitally united to) the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you abide in Me. I am the Vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit. However, apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing.” John 15:4-5 AMPC “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” John 15:7-8 KJV “But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.” John 15:7-8 NLT “If you live in Me [abide vitally united to Me] and My words remain in you and continue to live in your hearts, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you. When you bear (produce) much fruit, My Father is honored and glorified, and you show and prove yourselves to be true followers of Mine.” John 15:7-8 AMPC “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 KJV “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”” John 16:33 NLT “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]” John 16:33 AMPC Romans 10:9-10  Salvation… Romans 10:17  Faith in God comes from hearing His Word… Matthew 11:28-30  Jesus'Yoke is Easy… John 3:16  God gave Jesus to pay for our Salvation… God Loves The abortion dr As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Philippians 12:2  Work out your own Salvation… Romans 8:1  No condemnation in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior…  Luke Chapter 15 The Story Of The Prodigal Son… Philippians 4:19  God will supply all your needs let Him… Romans 4:20  Don't Stagger at What God Is Saying In His Word… John 15:5 We can't do anything aside from Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:17  We are new creatures in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:21  We are The Righteousness of God In Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Ephesians 2:8  We are Saved by Grace through Faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Believe God's Word Above All Opinions God Loves The abortion dr's As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Share This Podcast On Your Social Media… Website https://the-prodigalson.com Email tstacyhayes@gmail.com  YouVersion Bible App https://my.bible.comi iOS App https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/prodigal-son/id1450529518?mt=8 …  Android App https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tv.wizzard.android.prodical  Social Media https://www.facebook.com/The-Prodigal-SON-209069136315959/ https://www.facebook.com/noreligion1511/ https://twitter.com/noreligion1511 https://www.instagram.com/noreligion1511/ https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCPx4s1CLkSYef6mp4dSuU4w/featured

Pastor Sam BarberGenesis 11:1-9 (NLT)- What is the Tower of Babel about? - This is an essential story for your survival in 2024. We live in a divided world. - There are two popular ideologies to address this division: - Unity - Diversity The lack of moral absolutes dooms these propositions. - Unity seems promising, except we don't know what to unify over. - Diversity seems like a solution, except without a moral absolute, diversity becomes conflict, competition, one against the other. The thing that wrecks both the pursuit of unity and diversity is the same - selfish desire. The Bible reminds us that sin is essentially an unchecked selfish desire. Genesis 11:1-4 (NLT)- When we come together for our purposes, and God is marginalized or forgotten, what happens is destruction. Unity was championed, God was removed, and destruction reigned.- The Tower of Babel is the biblical account of unity devoid of God.Genesis 11: 5-7 (NLT)- God knows what breaks us, and God wants us to avoid that.- What breaks us, God calls sin and begs us to avoid it.- So, God scatters them to preserve them for their good.- So, we remain scattered, diverse, selfish, and hopeless.Acts 2:1-12 (NLT)- At the Tower of Babel, the people tried to unify without God.- In Jerusalem, the people gather to honor God and He blesses them in a never-before-seen way!- Perfect unity in perfect diversity is only possible through the work of God, the Holy Spirit.We see it playing out all around us right now. - All our efforts to “fix the world” are failing. There is only one “fix”: the power of God, poured out in His spirit, on people like us who make up the church. Our broken and scattered world needs to experience the love of a unified church. It begins with you:- A Unified and Spirit-filled church has Spirit-filled people. - The prayer of consecration will get you ready for God's work. It continues with this church: - As you surrender and live with God in control of your life, you change the trajectory of this church. - This church is this community's best hope for healing. Any one of us here, every one of us here, can surrender our lives to Jesus and be filled with His Spirit. When we do, we bring hope to a divided world.

Have you ever heard someone use the term "lukewarm?" Jesus himself actually used this phrase in Revelation 3:16 when He said, "But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!" (NLT)At first glance, this verse can seem really harsh, but when we truly understand the picture Jesus was painting here, it's not mean to discourage, but actually encourage us! 00:00 Intro02:10 Lifestyle videos on the way04:35 Reel recap each episode06:30 Are you scared to share your faith?08:27 There is nothing worse than "half-in"11:08 Jesus wanted us to understand something about being "half-in"11:35 Revelation 3:14-1612:45 Context of "spit you out of my mouth"13:36 Laodicea's history14:16 The significance of water16:28 Jesus uses extreme language to paint a picture17:02 What would a cup of your faith look like?17:51 When I was a lukewarm Christian...19:57 The Living Water23:10 The lukewarm have lost their dependance on God23:38 What is the sediment in your life?24:23 John 7:3825:06 What pipelines have you built up in your life?25:14 Lukewarm over luxury27:35 How we go from lukewarm to luxury27:47 Proverbs 3:5-631:49 Why go all-in?33:15 Choose one action stepAddie's Socials     YouTube  https://youtube.com/@addieoverla?si=b9BzpzS9J9HrLiK5 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@addieoverla Instagram https://www.instagram.com/addieoverla/  LINKSShop Addie's Designs https://www.bonfire.com/store/designs-by-addie/  Elevated Faith Apparel https://bit.ly/3xjVBvF  LikeToKnowIt https://www.shopltk.com/explore/addiewoost  Amazon Storefront https://www.amazon.com/shop/influencer-649a9b8a?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfinfluencer-649a9b8a_4C3D57EYC99TN49DVP21Ask Ralph - Christian FinanceJoin financial expert Ralph Estep, Jr - Daily tips for balancing your faith and finances. Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the Show.

SERMON NOTES 1 Kings 11:38 NLT “If you listen to what I tell you and follow my ways and do whatever I consider to be right, and if you obey my decrees and commands, as my servant David did, then I will always be with you. I will establish an enduring dynasty for you as I did for David, and I will give Israel to you.” 1 Kings 13:1-6 NLT   “At the Lord's command, a man of God from Judah went to Bethel, arriving there just as Jeroboam was approaching the altar to burn incense. Then at the Lord's command, he shouted, “O altar, altar! This is what the Lord says: A child named Josiah will be born into the dynasty of David. On you he will sacrifice the priests from the pagan shrines who come here to burn incense, and human bones will be burned on you.” That same day the man of God gave a sign to prove his message. He said, “The Lord has promised to give this sign: This altar will split apart, and its ashes will be poured out on the ground.” When King Jeroboam heard the man of God speaking against the altar at Bethel, he pointed at him and shouted, “Seize that man!” But instantly the king's hand became paralyzed in that position, and he couldn't pull it back. At the same time a wide crack appeared in the altar, and the ashes poured out, just as the man of God had predicted in his message from the Lord. The king cried out to the man of God, “Please ask the Lord your God to restore my hand again!” So the man of God prayed to the Lord, and the king's hand was restored and he could move it again.” Matthew 16:24-27 NLT.     24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. 25 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. 26 And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?[l] Is anything worth more than your soul? 27 For the Son of Man will come with his angels in the glory of his Father and will judge all people according to their deeds. 1. Jeroboam was a success politically and personally 2.  Jeroboam failed to obey the Lord 3.  What is a soul worth?   Discussion Questions 1. Read over chapter 14 of “The Story” and I Kings 11:26-43.  Who are Rehoboam and Jeroboam?  What do you notice about how (and why) Jeroboam came to power?   2.  Read 1 Kings 12:1-20. How would you describe King Rehoboam's decision to rely on his younger buddies' counsel?  Why was this a big mistake and what outcome did this have on the unified nation of Israel? 3. Read 1 Kings 12:25-33. What were some things Jeroboam did that were not obedient to the Lord?  What stood out to you about his actions and new religious policies? 4.  Although Jeroboam may have been “successful” as a leader from the world's perspective, he was NOT aligned with God's ways.  Discuss how successful outcomes without obedience to the Lord could mislead Christians.  Discuss how a Christian could be “unsuccessful” by worldly standards yet be successful in the Lord's eyes.   5.  How did Jeroboam's “success” lead to his downfall?  Do you think that success is spiritually more dangerous than failure?  Explain.  6.  Read 1 Kings 13:1-10.  What message did the “man of God” say to Jeroboam?  What impacted you about Jeroboam's response to the rebuke?  How should we as Christians respond to rebuke and correction from God? 7.  Read Matthew 16:24-27.  How did Pastor Dewayne describe what it means to “carry your cross?”  What is your gut reaction to these verses?  If we follow Jesus what do we lose?  What do we gain? 8.  In what ways do you find yourself trying to blend your agenda with the Lord's?   Have you really accepted Jesus as your Savior if you have not also accepted and submitted to His being LORD of your life?

God's purpose in all this was to use the church to display his wisdom in its rich variety to all the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. Ephesians 3:10 NLT   You are citizens along with all of God's holy people. You are members of God's family. Ephesians 2:19 NLT   See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don't recognize that we are God's children because they don't know him. 1 John 3:1 NLT   'But Christ, as the Son, is in charge of God's entire house. And we are God's house, if we keep our courage and remain confident in our hope in Christ. Hebrews 3:6 NLT   Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ's body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other. Romans 12:4-5 NLT   The scriptures are very clear that church is not something you are intended just to attend and receive from, but something you are designed to contribute to for the well-being of others!   You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God's word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. Hebrews 5:12 NLT   Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT Physical needs. Safety needs. Love needs. Esteem needs. Cognitive needs. Aesthetic needs. Self-actualization needs. So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last. Matthew 20:16 NLT   Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant… Matthew 20:20 NLT   For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28 NLT   'I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them. John 13:15,17 NLT   'Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20 NLT   1. Self-Centered Discipleship   “It's only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, ‘You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.'” “You won't die!” the serpent replied to the woman. “God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.” The woman was convinced. She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it, too. Genesis 3:3-6 NLT   At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?” Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God. ” John 6:66-69 NLT   According to Jesus, discipleship is not about self-actualization or self-preservation; it is about self-denial.   'Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.” Matthew 16:24-25 NLT   2. Spiritual Apathy   11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-13 NLT   Ministry is the pathway to maturity and many Christians will never obtain maturity until they travel the path of ministry.   How Do I Make A Disciple?   Discipleship is not difficult; it's just proximity over an extended period of time with a purpose.   And He appointed twelve, so that they would be with Him and that He could send them out to preach…Mark 3:14 (NASB)     “There is simply NO substitute for getting with people and it is ridiculous to imagine that anything less, short of a miracle, can develop strong Christian leadership. After all, if Jesus, the Son of God, found it necessary to stay almost constantly with his few disciples for 3 yrs, and even one of them was lost, how can a church expect to do this job on an assembly line basis a few days out of the year?” Quote from The Master Plan Evangelism   You didn't choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit…John 15:16 (NLT)   “When will we realize that evangelism is not done by something, but by someone? . . . It's not better methods, but better men and women who know their Redeemer from personal experience…who see his vision and feel his passion for the world…who are willing to be nothing so that he might be everything.” Quote from The Master Plan Evangelism

Pastor Chad shares from the NEW series.2 Corinthians 5:16-17 NLT “At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! 17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! 

Pastor Chad shares from the NEW series.2 Corinthians 5:16-17 NLT “At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! 17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! “

And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? Matthew 16:26 NLT   “While true Grace is the full justification of the sinner, cheap Grace is the justification of continued sin. The Christian continues too often to model himself on the world standards in nearly every possible sphere of life, counting it presumption to aspire to a life under grace different from that which life has been under sin.”  Dwight Small   “Costly Grace is costly because it cost a man his life, and it is Grace because it gives a man the only true life. it is costly because it condemns sin, and Grace because it justifies the sinner.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer   Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God. 2 Corinthians 7:1 NLT   Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, you want to be with me because I fed you, not because you understood the miraculous signs.  But don't be so concerned about perishable things like food. Spend your energy seeking the eternal life that the Son of Man can give you. For God the Father has given me the seal of his approval.” John 6:26-27 NLT   At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?” Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life.  We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God.” John 6:66-69 NLT   Where do you reside in your commitment to Jesus?   Three things that progress you towards the core.   1. Experience (Food, Blessings, Miracles)   2. Revelation (He is more than a man)   3. Conviction (Not a guilty feeling, but moved inwardly, “where else would I go”)   If you only live in experience you will never have a deep relationship with God. Experience causes you to live for yourself and self sooner or later becomes the only god you need.   The backslider in heart will be filled with his own ways, But a good man will be satisfied from above. Proverbs 14:14  

God is determined to accomplish his purposes through us so that his Justice and mercy will cover the earth like a flood. Still, despite hearing about the mercy characteristics of God, there are many of us who don't know this God. We flee wrath but we never worship under mercy. It is his pure and true justice as a loving father that leads us back to him and allows him to bring us fully into his restoration, healing, and new life.“When God saw what they had done and how they had put a stop to their evil ways, he changed his mind and did not carry out the destruction he had threatened.”Jonah 3:10 (NLT)“At first glance this message seems to be only one of gloom and doom. The Ninevites certainly understand “overturned” to mean “destroyed.” Everyone in the text understands, however, that this word of destruction contains the possibility of Yahweh's mercy if they repent. This word concept is crucial to understanding this chapter. The double meaning of “overturned” is not lost on Jonah. He knows that Yahweh's message implies that the people may repent and God will forgive. Such a possibility is exactly why Jonah initially fled to Tarshish. The Ninevites also seem to understand this when they immediately repent and hear about the hope of forgiveness from the king.”James Bruckner | NIV CommentaryTo plug into our daily bible study, text "DLR" to 501-200-3122 and follow the link to sign up. For more information on how to get connected at New Life Church - Downtown Little Rock, follow us on Instagram @nlcdowntownlittlerock or visit our website at newlifechurch.tv

July 30 2023 Sunday T. Stacy Hayes   Week 29 / Equipped With All You Need #findoutwhoyouare My Vision My vision is to teach the world Who They Are In Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior! To Teach them what the Bible says about them and who they have been made to be in the promises of God's Word. This changed my life years ago and completely transformed me from a person full of doubt, fear and unbelief to a strong confident Christian that knows I can do anything through Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. And I'm determined to teach the world what God has taught and commissioned me to teach and that is His Word.  That commission takes me to jails and detention centers weekly along with other open doors at many churches and ministries that are wanting to teach these important truths to the world. My podcast goes out 6 days a week to help the people I am ministering to grow in the truths that God has taught me for many years now. This podcast is free to all that want to listen and grow strong in who God has made them to be in Christ Jesus their Lord and Savior. This In Him Scripture Study Started On June 21 2021 Go Back And Listen From The Beginning…  The Study In Romans Started on March 30 2022 Go Back And Listen To This Study From The Beginning… Isaiah 53:5  Healing… Matthew 18:19  Agree with God's Word… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Acts 10:34  God is no respecter of persons… “Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21 KJV “Now may the God of peace— who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood— may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21 NLT “Now may the God of peace [Who is the Author and the Giver of peace], Who brought again from among the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, by the blood [that sealed, ratified] the everlasting agreement (covenant, testament), [Isa. 55:3; 63:11; Ezek. 37:26; Zech. 9:11.] Strengthen (complete, perfect) and make you what you ought to be and equip you with everything good that you may carry out His will; [while He Himself] works in you and accomplishes that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ (the Messiah); to Whom be the glory forever and ever (to the ages of the ages). Amen (so be it).” Hebrews 13:20-21 AMPC “He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.” John 6:56 KJV “Anyone who eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him.” John 6:56 NLT “He who feeds on My flesh and drinks My blood dwells continually in Me, and I [in like manner dwell continually] in him.” John 6:56 AMPC “At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.” John 14:20 KJV “When I am raised to life again, you will know that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you.” John 14:20 NLT “At that time [when that day comes] you will know [for yourselves] that I am in My Father, and you [are] in Me, and I [am] in you.” John 14:20 AMPC “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:4-5 KJV “Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:4-5 NLT “Dwell in Me, and I will dwell in you. [Live in Me, and I will live in you.] Just as no branch can bear fruit of itself without abiding in (being vitally united to) the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you abide in Me. I am the Vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit. However, apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing.” John 15:4-5 AMPC “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” John 15:7-8 KJV “But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.” John 15:7-8 NLT “If you live in Me [abide vitally united to Me] and My words remain in you and continue to live in your hearts, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you. When you bear (produce) much fruit, My Father is honored and glorified, and you show and prove yourselves to be true followers of Mine.” John 15:7-8 AMPC Romans 10:9-10  Salvation… Romans 10:17  Faith in God comes from hearing His Word… Matthew 11:28-30  Jesus'Yoke is Easy… John 3:16  God gave Jesus to pay for our Salvation… God Loves The abortion dr As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Philippians 12:2  Work out your own Salvation… Romans 8:1  No condemnation in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior…  Luke Chapter 15 The Story Of The Prodigal Son… Philippians 4:19  God will supply all your needs let Him… Romans 4:20  Don't Stagger at What God Is Saying In His Word… John 15:5 We can't do anything aside from Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:17  We are new creatures in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:21  We are The Righteousness of God In Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Ephesians 2:8  We are Saved by Grace through Faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Believe God's Word Above All Opinions God Loves The abortion dr's As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Share This Podcast On Your Social Media… Website https://the-prodigalson.com Email tstacyhayes@gmail.com  YouVersion Bible App https://my.bible.comi iOS App https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/prodigal-son/id1450529518?mt=8 …  Android App https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tv.wizzard.android.prodical  Social Media https://www.facebook.com/The-Prodigal-SON-209069136315959/ https://www.facebook.com/noreligion1511/ https://twitter.com/noreligion1511 https://www.instagram.com/noreligion1511/ https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCPx4s1CLkSYef6mp4dSuU4w/featured                    

“God has Faith in Job's Faith in Him”   Job 1:1 (NLT) There once was a man named Job who lived in the land of Uz. He was blameless—a man of complete integrity. He feared God and stayed away from evil.   Job 1:6 – 12 (NLT) 6 One day the members of the heavenly court came to present themselves before the Lord, and the Accuser, Satan, came with them. 7 “Where have you come from?” the Lord asked Satan. Satan answered the Lord, “I have been patrolling the earth, watching everything that's going on.” 8 Then the Lord asked Satan, “Have you noticed my servant Job? He is the finest man in all the earth. He is blameless—a man of complete integrity. He fears God and stays away from evil.” 9 Satan replied to the Lord, “Yes, but Job has good reason to fear God. 10 You have always put a wall of protection around him and his home and his property. You have made him prosper in everything he does. Look how rich he is! 11 But reach out and take away everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face!” 12 “All right, you may test him,” the Lord said to Satan. “Do whatever you want with everything he possesses, but don't harm him physically.” So Satan left the Lord's presence.   Job 2:3 – 7 (NLT) 3 Then the Lord asked Satan, “Have you noticed my servant Job? He is the finest man in all the earth. He is blameless—a man of complete integrity. He fears God and stays away from evil. And he has maintained his integrity, even though you urged me to harm him without cause.” 4 Satan replied to the Lord, “Skin for skin! A man will give up everything he has to save his life. 5 But reach out and take away his health, and he will surely curse you to your face!” 6 “All right, do with him as you please,” the Lord said to Satan. “But spare his life.” 7 So Satan left the Lord's presence, and he struck Job with terrible boils from head to foot.   Job Curses His Birth Job 3:1 – 2 (NLT) At last Job spoke, and he cursed the day of his birth. 2 He said: 3 “Let the day of my birth be erased, and the night I was conceived.   Job Wishes He was Dead Job 6:8 – 10 (NLT) 8 “Oh, that I might have my request, that God would grant my desire. 9 I wish he would crush me. I wish he would reach out his hand and kill me. 10 At least I can take comfort in this: Despite the pain, I have not denied the words of the Holy One.   Job Argues with Friends Job 19:19 – 22 (NLT) 19 My close friends detest me. Those I loved have turned against me. 20 I have been reduced to skin and bones and have escaped death by the skin of my teeth. 21 “Have mercy on me, my friends, have mercy, for the hand of God has struck me. 22 Must you also persecute me, like God does? Haven't you chewed me up enough?   Job Complains about God Job 21:4 – 5 (NLT) 4 “My complaint is with God, not with people. I have good reason to be so impatient. 5 Look at me and be stunned. Put your hand over your mouth in shock.   Job Never Loses Faith Job 42:5 – 6 (NLT) 5 I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes. 6 I take back everything I said, and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance.”   Our three clarifying questions: Head: What do I know now?   Heart: How does this change me?   Hands: What do I do now?   Hebrews 4:16 (NLT) 16 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.

Psalm 79 (NLT)At the end of Psalm 79, Andrew and Edwin notice we have three kinds of speech: Groans, Taunts, Praises. Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=12252The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

(English) In this message Ps Richard talks about how we can be an Influencer in these 5 points: (Acts 2:1 NLT) On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. (Acts 2:2-3 NLT) Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. (3) Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. (Acts 1:4-5 NLT) Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, “Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. (5) John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 1:8 NLT) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 1.You already are an influencer (whether you want to be or not!) 2.How will I influence my world? (Matthew 28:19 NLT) Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:4 NLT) And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability. (Acts 2:5-6 NLT) At that time there were devout Jews from every nation living in Jerusalem. (6) When they heard the loud noise, everyone came running, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers. (Acts 2:37 NIV) When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 3.Be Genuine in Your Faith 4.Pray and Ask the Holy Spirit to Help 5.Invite, invite, invite!

FOR EVERY OUTCOME YOU DESIRE, THERE MUST BE AN INPUT DISCIPLINE FOR IT TO BECOME A REALITY.   Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. James 2:17-18 NIV   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   So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 NLT   At this time Aramean raiders had invaded the land of Israel, and among their captives was a young girl who had been given to Naaman's wife as a maid. One day the girl said to her mistress, “I wish my master would go to see the prophet in Samaria. He would heal him of his leprosy.” 2 Kings 5:2-3 NLT   So Naaman told the king what the young girl from Israel had said. “Go and visit the prophet,” the king of Aram told him. “I will send a letter of introduction for you to take to the king of Israel.” So Naaman started out, carrying as gifts 750 pounds of silver, 150 pounds of gold, and ten sets of clothing. The letter to the king of Israel said: “With this letter I present my servant Naaman. I want you to heal him of his leprosy.” When the king of Israel read the letter, he tore his clothes in dismay and said, “Am I God, that I can give life and take it away? Why is this man asking me to heal someone with leprosy? I can see that he's just trying to pick a fight with me.” 2 Kings 5:4-7 NLT   But when Elisha, the man of God, heard that the king of Israel had torn his clothes in dismay, he sent this message to him: “Why are you so upset? Send Naaman to me, and he will learn that there is a true prophet here in Israel.” So Naaman went with his horses and chariots and waited at the door of Elisha's house. But Elisha sent a messenger out to him with this message: “Go and wash yourself seven times in the Jordan River. Then your skin will be restored, and you will be healed of your leprosy.” But Naaman became angry and stalked away. “I thought he would certainly come out to meet me!” he said. “I expected him to wave his hand over the leprosy and call on the name of the Lord his God and heal me! Aren't the rivers of Damascus, the Abana and the Pharpar, better than any of the rivers of Israel? Why shouldn't I wash in them and be healed?” So Naaman turned and went away in a rage. 2 Kings 5:8-12 NLT   But his officers tried to reason with him and said, “Sir, if the prophet had told you to do something very difficult, wouldn't you have done it? So you should certainly obey him when he says simply, ‘Go and wash and be cured!'” So Naaman went down to the Jordan River and dipped himself seven times, as the man of God had instructed him. And his skin became as healthy as the skin of a young child, and he was healed! 2 Kings 5:13-14 NLT   GREAT OPPORTUNITIES OFTEN DISGUISE THEMSELVES IN SMALL TASKS.    INWARD DISCIPLINES   1. MEDITATION   Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. Joshua 1:7-8 NLT   2. STUDY   And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul's message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth. As a result, many Jews believed, as did many of the prominent Greek women and men. Acts 17:11-12 NLT   As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. Proverbs 27:17 NLT   3. PRAYER    Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. And don't let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one. Matthew 6:9-13 NLT   ADORATION AND WORSHIP CONFESSION AND TRANSFORMATION GOD'S KINGDOM AND GOD'S AGENDA  MY AGENDA AND REQUESTS   4. FASTING   He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30 ESV …not my will, but yours be done. Luke 22:42 NIV   Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33 NLT        

Series: True[ish] Title: Al long as I'm Happy Date: 7.10.22 Location: Perris Valley Church   1 Peter 1:15 (NLT) But now you must be happy holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is happy holy.   When the bottom line is my happiness, happiness becomes the standard by which I judge my actions.    Psalm 37:4 (NLT) Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart's desires.   Psalm 97:12 (NLT) May all who are godly rejoice in the Lord and praise his holy name!   God doesn't want you happy when it causes you to do something wrong, unwise, or sinful.   Proverbs 14:12 (NLT) There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.   God doesn't want you happy when your happiness is only based on the things in this world.    1 John 2:15 (NLT) Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you.   Psalm 1:1-2 (NLT) Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. 2 But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night.   God does not want you happy - He wants you blessed.   John 16:23-24 (NLT) At that time you won't need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you use my name. 24 You haven't done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.   Luke 6:22-23 (NLT) What blessings await you when people hate you and exclude you and mock you and curse you as evil because you follow the Son of Man. 23 When that happens, be happy! Yes, leap for joy! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, their ancestors treated the ancient prophets that same way.   1 Peter 3:14 (NLT) But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don't worry or be afraid of their threats.  

Sermon Notes - May 1, 2022Acts: The Church - Introduction - Jon Furman Acts 2:2 (NLT)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. Acts 2:5-6 (NLT)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. Acts 2:37-39 (NLT)Peter's words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away—all who have been called by the Lord our God.” “This promise is to you, to your children, and to those far away—all who have been called by the Lord our God.” Acts 2:42 (NLT)All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Supper), and to prayer. Acts 8:1&4 (NLT)A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusalem; and all the believers except the apostles were scattered through the regions of Judea and Samaria… But the believers who were scattered preached the Good News about Jesus wherever they went. Acts 8:29-31 (NLT)The Holy Spirit said to Philip, “Go over and walk along beside the carriage.” Philip ran over and heard the man reading from the prophet Isaiah. Philip asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” The man replied, “How can I, unless someone instructs me?” And he urged Philip to come up into the carriage and sit with him. Acts 8:35-37 (NLT)So beginning with this same Scripture, Philip told him the Good News about Jesus. As they rode along, they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “Look! There's some water! Why can't I be baptized?” Deuteronomy 23:1 (NIV)“No one who has been emasculated by crushing or cutting may enter into the assembly of the Lord.” Acts 8:38-40 (NLT)He ordered the carriage to stop, and they went down into the water, and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away. The eunuch never saw him again but went on his way rejoicing. Meanwhile, Philip found himself farther north at the town of Azotus. He preached the Good News there and in every town along the way until he came to Caesarea. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT)This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! Action I: Baptism Action II: Service

He Has the Final Word II Samuel 6, I Chronicles 13, Psalm 68 and Matthew 17 The pathway to real transfiguration, real transformation, is found here on this mountain.  We see this in our Gospel reading. This story is about far more than Jesus' clothes being transformed, made dazzling white, whiter than snow.  It's about you and me being transformed, it's about the world, and all things being transformed. In this story we are offered a pathway, a model. The first thing we see is that Jesus has the final word, not Elijah or Moses, Not the writings, not the Torah, not  Peter; and not me not you. Peter witnesses this amazing moment.  Suddenly Elijah and Moses are speaking with Jesus. And Peter, out of his own fear or pride, maybe both, shouts out, Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, I will make three tabernacles here, one for You, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” (Mt 17:4 NASB)   Peter thinks he has the final word here, “I will make”.  Other translations render it, Let us build.  But let us build is not the final word.  No, those words are often born out of fear and pride and they will never be the final word.  Individuals and kingdoms are always offering this as the final word. Let us Build.  But  fear which makes us cower, and pride which puffs us up, will all be subsumed in the end, by God's voice - His word We see that here.  Suddenly a cloud envelopes them.  And ultimately, they are touched by Jesus. The voice that they hear is God the Father saying,  “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy. Listen to him.” (Mt 17:5 NLT) At the sound of his voice they are terrified.  They fall face down on the ground.  It's at this point that Jesus touches them and tells them Get up...Don't be afraid. (Mt 17:7 NLT) When they look up nobody is there but Jesus.  Moses and Elijah are gone.  Only Jesu remains- no more voices or conversations.  Only Jesus, the one who has the final word, remains.  After he touches them he tells them, “Don't tell anyone what you have seen until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” (Mt 17:9 NLT) God's Word envelopes our fearful pride. His voice breaks through. When we are confronted by Jesus the Living Word we are given a pathway for real transformation.   Hear the Father's voice today.  Jesus' words are pointing beyond our fear and pride. It's all pointing to Him, not just on this mountain, but on a different mountain.  They're pointing to Calvary's mountain, and the work that He has accomplished for you and me there.  Not just Peter James and John are being drawn to this mountain, no, on Calvary's mountain, he draws all of humanity to himself. When he was lifted up on that cross he drew all humanity to himself. That he might transform all things, including you and me.  has made life possible for us on Calvary's mountain, by offering his life for you and me on the Cross. His final words on that Cross were, It is finished. (Jn 19:30 NLT) Live today in light of the One who has finished it all for you and for me, the one who has the final word.  He is the One who can truly transform the human life from the inside out.  Live with Him, in him and because of Him today. Let him have the final word as He changes you with His Word.  

Notas en Español e inglés

Week One: 2/06/2022 Title: Build a Circle of Friends Bible: John 1:35 – 41, Luke 5:1–11, Matthew 12:1 – 2, John 6:60 – 69   “Intentional relationships build through time, travel, and trouble.”   John 1:35 – 41 (NLT) 35 The following day John was again standing with two of his disciples. 36 As Jesus walked by, John looked at him and declared, “Look! There is the Lamb of God!” 37 When John's two disciples heard this, they followed Jesus. 38 Jesus looked around and saw them following. “What do you want?” he asked them. They replied, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?” 39 “Come and see,” he said. It was about four o'clock in the afternoon when they went with him to the place where he was staying, and they remained with him the rest of the day. 40 Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of these men who heard what John said and then followed Jesus. 41 Andrew went to find his brother, Simon, and told him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means “Christ”).   Luke 5:4 – 11 (NLT) 4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Now go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish.” 5 “Master,” Simon replied, “we worked hard all last night and didn't catch a thing. But if you say so, I'll let the nets down again.” 6 And this time their nets were so full of fish they began to tear! 7 A shout for help brought their partners in the other boat, and soon both boats were filled with fish and on the verge of sinking. 8 When Simon Peter realized what had happened, he fell to his knees before Jesus and said, “Oh, Lord, please leave me—I'm such a sinful man.” 9 For he was awestruck by the number of fish they had caught, as were the others with him. 10 His partners, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, were also amazed. Jesus replied to Simon, “Don't be afraid! From now on you'll be fishing for people!” 11 And as soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus.   Matthew 12:1 – 2 (NLT) At about that time Jesus was walking through some grainfields on the Sabbath. His disciples were hungry, so they began breaking off some heads of grain and eating them. 2 But some Pharisees saw them do it and protested, “Look, your disciples are breaking the law by harvesting grain on the Sabbath.”   John 6:60 – 69 (NLT) 60 Many of his disciples said, “This is very hard to understand. How can anyone accept it?” 61 Jesus was aware that his disciples were complaining, so he said to them, “Does this offend you? 62 Then what will you think if you see the Son of Man ascend to heaven again? 63 The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life. 64 But some of you do not believe me.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning which ones didn't believe, and he knew who would betray him.) 65 Then he said, “That is why I said that people can't come to me unless the Father gives them to me.” 66 At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. 67 Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?” 68 Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. 69 We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God.”   How are you intentional in relationships? 1 Thessalonians 2:8 (NLT) 8 We loved you so much that we shared with you not only God's Good News but our own lives, too.   How are you traveling through life with when it comes to following Jesus? Romans 14:1(NLT) Accept other believers who are weak in faith, and don't argue with them about what they think is right or wrong.   Romans 14: 17 – 19 (NLT) 17 For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 18 If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God, and others will approve of you, too. 19 So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.   How are you dealing with life's trouble as a follower of Jesus? 2 Corinthians 1:3 – 7 (NLT) 3 All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. 4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 5 For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. 6 Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. 7 We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us.

A primary theme of scripture is a demonstration of God's commitment to redeem, restore, and renew the things in our lives that have been hurt, damaged, and broken. Today, Brian continues through Psalm 126, showing how God's people respond to redemption through song. Worship • https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJiXY9vBKd-n2kH_vqUbneg • Check out Willamette Music's YouTube channel to find the songs we most often sing together on Sundays. I've accepted Jesus • https://willamette.cc/follow-christ • Let us know you made this decision, and we'll help you discover what's next! Get Baptized • https://willamette.cc/baptisms • If you have accepted Jesus but have never had the opportunity to celebrate your new life in Him through water baptism, this is your next step! Sermon Notes - October 10th, 2021It's A New Day (Sing Again) - Brian Becker Psalm 126:1-3 (MSG)It seemed like a dream, too good to be true when God returned Zion's exiles. We laughed, we sang, we couldn't believe our good fortune. We were the talk of the nations: “God was wonderful to them!” God was wonderful to us; we are one happy people. Believe AgainLaugh AgainPray AgainSing AgainDream Again Psalm 126:4-6 (MSG)And now, God, do it again —bring rains to our drought-stricken lives So those who planted their crops in despair will shout “Yes!” at the harvest, So those who went off with heavy hearts will come home laughing, with armloads of blessing. Psalm 126:1-2 (MSG)It seemed like a dream, too good to be true when God returned Zion's exiles. We laughed, we sang, we couldn't believe our good fortune…. “…gather early in the morning and sing joyfully to one another, singing hymns to Christ, as to a god.” - Pliny the Younger (111 AD) “Sing to the Lord”“Sing praises”“Sing joyfully”“Come into His presence with singing”“Sing A New Song The “before” and “after” of singingBefore the breakthrough.After the exile. There is never not a time to open your mouth and sing to God, align yourself with God, and cry out to God. 2 Chronicles 20:21 (NLT)After consulting the people, the king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the Lord and praising him for his holy splendor. This is what they sang: “Give thanks to the Lord; his faithful love endures forever!” Acts 16:23a-24,25 (NLT)They were severely beaten, and then they were thrown into…the inner dungeon and clamped their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. “May they place salt on people's lips and stir up holy hunger for the mysteries of Your kingdom.” - St. Augustine 2 Chronicles 20:22 (NLT)At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the Lord caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves… 2 Chronicles 20:27-28 (NLT)Then all the men returned to Jerusalem, with Jehoshaphat leading them, overjoyed that the Lord had given them victory over their enemies. They marched into Jerusalem to the music of harps, lyres, and trumpets, and they proceeded to the Temple of the Lord. There is never not a time to open your mouth and sing to God, align yourself with God, and cry out to God. Psalm 68:6 (NIV)God sets the lonely in families, he leads out the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land. Sing To The LordFear Not

Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O LORD, do not abandon those who search for you. Psalms 9:10 (NLT) At that time people first began to worship the LORD by name. Genesis 4:26 (NLT) 1. Our God is PERSONAL. Then the LORD told him, “I have certainly seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their cries of distress because of their harsh slave drivers. Yes, I am aware of their suffering. So I have come down to rescue them from the power of the Egyptians and lead them out of Egypt into their own fertile and spacious land. It is a land flowing with milk and honey… Exodus 3:7-8 (NLT) Look at the birds. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren't you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? “And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? Matthew 6:26-30 (NLT) 2. Our God is right HERE, right NOW. Now go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say.” Exodus 4:12 (NLT) God replied to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. Say this to the people of Israel: I AM has sent me to you.” Exodus 3:14 (NLT) You have been chosen to know me, believe in me, and understand that I alone am God. There is no other God— there never has been, and there never will be. I, yes I, am the LORD, and there is no other Savior. Isaiah 43:10-11 (NLT) 3. Our God is a PROMISE KEEPER. God heard their groaning, and he remembered his covenant promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Exodus 2:24 (NLT) For though a thousand generations may pass away, he is still true to his word. He has kept every promise he made to Abraham and to Isaac. Psalm 105:8 Your father Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to my coming. He saw it and was glad.” The people said, “You aren't even fifty years old. How can you say you have seen Abraham?” Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM!” John 8:56-58 (NLT)

Acts 2:1-13 Perris Valley Church 08.22.21 Acts 1:5 (NLT) John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”     Exodus 34:18 (NLT) “You must celebrate the Festival of Unleavened Bread. For seven days the bread you eat must be made without yeast, just as I commanded you. Celebrate this festival annually at the appointed time in early spring, in the month of Abib, for that is the anniversary of your departure from Egypt.     Exodus 12:1-21 (NLT) While the Israelites were still in the land of Egypt, the Lord gave the following instructions to Moses and Aaron: 2 “From now on, this month will be the first month of the year for you. 3 Announce to the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each family must choose a lamb or a young goat for a sacrifice, one animal for each household.    7 They are to take some of the blood and smear it on the sides and top of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the animal.    12 On that night I will pass through the land of Egypt and strike down every firstborn son and firstborn male animal in the land of Egypt. I will execute judgment against all the gods of Egypt, for I am the Lord! 13 But the blood on your doorposts will serve as a sign, marking the houses where you are staying. When I see the blood, I will pass over you. This plague of death will not touch you when I strike the land of Egypt. 14 “This is a day to remember. Each year, from generation to generation, you must celebrate it as a special festival to the Lord. This is a law for all time.        Exodus 34:22-23 (NLT) “You must celebrate the Festival of Harvest (Pentecost) with the first crop of the wheat harvest, and celebrate the Festival of the Final Harvest at the end of the harvest season (This is the Festival of Tabernacles held in the fall at the end of the Harvest season. 23 Three times each year every man in Israel must appear before the Sovereign, the Lord, the God of Israel.     Acts 2:1 (NLT) On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place.    Acts 1:12-15 (NLT) Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, a distance of half a mile. 13 When they arrived, they went to the upstairs room of the house where they were staying. 15 During this time, when about 120 believers were together in one place                                                                                                                   Acts 2:2-4 (NLT) Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. 3 Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. 4 And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.   God can appear in ways that we can't imagine.     Matthew 3:11 “I baptize with water those who repent of their sins and turn to God. But someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I'm not worthy even to be his slave and carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.     Acts 2:5-8 (NLT) At that time there were devout Jews from every nation living in Jerusalem. 6 When they heard the loud noise, everyone came running, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers. 7 They were completely amazed. “How can this be?” they exclaimed. “These people are all from Galilee, 8 and yet we hear them speaking in our own native languages!    When the holy spirit lives in you, people notice.   Joel 2:28-31 (NLT) “Then, after doing all those things, I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your old men will dream dreams, and your young men will see visions. 29 In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on servants—men and women alike.   Acts 2:9-11 (NLT) Here we are—Parthians, Medes, Elamites, people from Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, the province of Asia, 10 Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, and the areas of Libya around Cyrene, visitors from Rome 11 (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!”      The Holy Spirit always points to Jesus.       It's time to stop leading your life and start relying on the Holy Spirit.

“He is the God of comfort and the ultimate comfort is the hope we have for our future.” Today we continue our Moms in the Bible Series as Stacy talks with Pat Kenney, the Moms in Prayer North East Division Coordinator.   Listen in as she shares hope for the brokenhearted, through looking at Mary, the mother of Jesus.                           About our Guest: Pat Kenney is the Northeast Division Coordinator of Moms in Prayer (MIP) International. She has been praying for her children/granddaughter and schools through MIP since her daughters were in elementary school. Pat is married to her college sweetheart and has three adult daughters, one ‘son in love’ and an adorable granddaughter. She enjoys tennis, art, gardening and developing an abiding presence in God through His Word. Her ‘sweet spot’ is equipping moms to pray powerfully for their children and schools.   Scripture:  Scriptures on Mary found in Luke 1-2 Psalm 34:18 (NLT) The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.  Luke 2:19 (NIV) But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2: 25-35 (NLT) At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, “Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” Jesus’ parents were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.” John 19:25-27 (NLT)  Standing near the cross were Jesus’ mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary (the wife of Clopas), and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother standing there beside the disciple he loved, he said to her, “Dear woman, here is your son.” And he said to this disciple, “Here is your mother.” And from then on this disciple took her into his home. Acts 1:14 (NLT) They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus. Psalm 28:7 (NIV) The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.     Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.   Links: To give to the ministry of Moms in Prayer: Support Our Mission | Moms In Prayer International Moms in Prayer International- www.MomsInPrayer.org  

Text: Luke 2:22-35 Theme: This week, we learn from a man named Simeon when it comes to having the right kinds of expectations when it comes to waiting on God to come through for us. Key Verse: Luke 2:25 (NLT) At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel.

(John 17:15-16 NLT) I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They do not belong to this world any more than I do. (Genesis 11:1-9 NLT) At one time all the people of the world spoke the same language and used the same […]

MAY 10,  A NEW SONG Our readings today are II Samuel 18, Psalm 56, and Matthew 27.  We are reading through the New Living Translation. “O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom!” (II Sam 18:33NLT)   It's a cry of a Father for his boy.  It's a tragic cry of brokenness for all that's wrong.  Jesus cries out too.   “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?” (Mt 27:46 NLT)  The words seem so tragic. This, too, is a cry of loss, brokenness and all that is wrong.  But things are not always as they seem.  Jesus is actually quoting from Psalm 22.  It begins with the words, My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? Why are you so far away when I call out for help?  When Jesus started saying these words, the pious religious leaders who were there would have known what he was doing.  He was quoting from Psalms, repeating the words they knew so well. And those words don't end in tragedy.  A Psalm that begins with the misery and pain of humiliation and death, ends with sweeping victory.   My enemies surround me like a pack of dogs; an evil gang closes in on me. They have pierced my hands and feet. I can count all my bones. My enemies stare at me and gloat. They divide my garments among themselves and throw dice for my clothing. (Ps 22:16-18 NLT) At the end of that Psalm we hear these words: I will praise you in the great assembly. I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you. The poor will eat and be satisfied. All who seek the Lord will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy. The whole earth will acknowledge the Lord and return to him. All the families of the  nations will bow down before him. For royal power belongs to the Lord. He rules all the nations. (Ps 22:25 - 28 NLT) In that moment on the cross, the portion of Psalm 22 Jesus did not finish with his lips, he finished with his life.  It is finished.  Those were the words he spoke last of all.  Jesus has finished the song,  and it is not a song of tragedy, but of triumph. I will praise you in the great assembly. I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you.(Ps 22:25 NLT) My God, my god, why have you forsaken me?  reflects all the despair, brokenness and anguish in the world.  We hear it in the cry of David for his son, and it's in the cry of every broken heart, that has known loss, betrayal and tragedy.  Jesus bears all of this for us on the Cross.  He sings out the phrase, My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?  Jesus experiences all of this so that He might get us to the end of the song – a song that ends in triumph, not tragedy.  He has done all of this so that our stories can be re-written.  He gives us a new song – no longer tragic cries, but instead, a new song of deliverance.  He experienced all of Psalm 22 for us, in order that we might live through Him.   Live in the blessing of a New Song, won for you on Calvary.  God can re-write the song of your life.  And that is a tune worth singing.

APRIL 30,  He Has the Final Word II Samuel 6, I Chronicles 13, Psalm 68 and Matthew 17 The pathway to real transfiguration, real transformation, is found here on this mountain.  We see this in our Gospel reading. This story is about far more than Jesus' clothes being transformed, made dazzling white, whiter than snow.  It's about you and me being transformed. In this story we are offered a pathway, a model. The first thing we see is that Jesus has the final word, not Elijah or Moses, or Peter; and not me or you. Peter witnesses this amazing moment.  Suddenly Elijah and Moses are speaking with Jesus. And Peter, out of his own fear or pride, maybe both, shouts out, Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, I will make three tabernacles here, one for You, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” (Mt 17:4 NASB)   Peter thinks he has the final word here, “I will make”.  Other translations render it, Let us build.  But let us build is not the final word.  No, those words are often born out of fear and pride and they will never be the final word.  Individuals and kingdoms are always offering this as the final word. Let us Build.  But  fear which makes us cower, and pride which puffs us up, will all be subsumed in the end, by God's voice - His word We see that here.  Suddenly a cloud envelopes them.  And ultimately, they are touched by Jesus. The voice that they hear is God the Father saying,  “This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy. Listen to him.” (Mt 17:5 NLT) At the sound of his voice they are terrified.  They fall face down on the ground.  It's at this point that Jesus touches them and tells them Get up...Don't be afraid. (Mt 17:7 NLT) When they look up nobody is there but Jesus.  Moses and Elijah are gone.  Only Jesu remains- no more voices or conversations.  Only Jesus, the one who has the final word, remains.  After he touches them he tells them, “Don't tell anyone what you have seen until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” (Mt 17:9 NLT) God's Word envelopes our fearful pride. His voice breaks through. When we are confronted by God's Word we are given a pathway for real transformation.   Hear the Father's voice today.  Jesus' words are pointing beyond our fear and pride. They're pointing to what Christ has done, not just on this mountain, but on a different mountain.  They're pointing to Calvary's mountain, and the work that He has accomplished for you and me there.  He has made life possible for us on Calvary's mountain, by offering his life for you and me on the Cross. His final words on that Cross were, It is finished. (Jn 19:30 NLT) Live today in light of the One who has finished it all for you and for me, the one who has the final word.  He is the One who can truly transform the human life from the inside out.  Live with Him, in him and because of Him today. Let him have the final word as He changes you with His Word.  

I Am ______I Am Chosen1 Peter 2:9a (NIV) – But you are a chosen people…1 Peter 1:4a, 6 (NLT) – You are coming to Christ, who is the living cornerstone of God's temple….As the Scriptures say, “I am placing a cornerstone in Jerusalem, chosen for great honor, and anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced.”Because I Am Chosen…1. I Have an Identity in Christ1 Peter 2:9a (NIV) – But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession…1 Peter 2:10 (NLT) – “Once you had no identity as a people; now you are God's people. Once you received no mercy; now you have received God's mercy.”Hebrews 4:14 (NLT) – 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.Matthew 27:51 (NLT) – At that moment the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. The earth shook, rocks split apart.Why was the curtain torn in two? Because we no longer needed a priest to access God's presence for us. Jesus is our High Priest, and Jesus' death meant that ALL PEOPLE could now enter into the presence of God.Hebrews 10:19-22 (NLT) – And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven's Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. 20 By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. 21 And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God's house, 22 let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ's blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water.Warren Wiersbe: “In the Old Testament period, God's people had a priesthood, but today, God's people are a priesthood. Each individual believer has the privilege of coming into the presence of God.”1 Peter 1:2a (NLT) – God the Father knew you and chose you long ago, and his Spirit has made you holy.Ephesians 1:13 (NLT) – And now you Gentiles have also heard the truth, the Good News that God saves you. And when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago.2. I Have a Responsibility in Christ• Worship Christ1 Peter 2:9 (NIV) – But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.• Be a Witness for Christ1 Peter 2:9 (NIV) – But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.• Live a Life Worthy of Christ1 Peter 2:11-12 (NLT) – Dear friends, I warn you as “temporary residents and foreigners” to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls. 12 Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.Colossians 1:10 (NIV) – live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.John 15:16 (NLT) – You didn't choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name.Romans 8:33-34 (NLT) – Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with himself. 34 Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God's right hand, pleading for us.

MICAH 1-2:The name “Micah” is a shortened form of “Micaiah,” which means, “Who is like Yahweh?” A different Micaiah, the son of Imlah, served as a prophet in the Northern Kingdom during the reign of King Ahab of Israel (874-853 B.C., 1Kings 22:8-28; 2Chron. 18:3-27). Micah prophesied during the reigns of the Judean kings Jotham (750-732 B.C.), Ahaz (732-715 B.C.), and Hezekiah (715-686 B.C.). This makes him a late eighth-century contemporary of Isaiah. While Isaiah was ministering in Jerusalem, perhaps Micah was more of a country prophet. Amos and Hosea were preaching at the same time in the Northern Kingdom. Micah’s message is similar to that of Amos, and Micah spoke at a time when conditions in Judah were much like those in the Northern Kingdom while Amos was preaching. Both prophets denounced social sins and the unfair treatment of the poor by the rich. The Northern Kingdom was taken into captivity during Micah’s lifetime— fulfilling Amos’ prophecies. Micah contains three notable passages about Christ: Bethlehem will produce the ultimate Ruler 5:2— the information quoted to Herod in Mat. 2. Christ will be the King 2:12-13 Christ will reign in righteousness over the whole earth 4:1,7-8 ISAIAH 50: As we heard yesterday, Isaiah 49 includes these words that are quoted in 2Cor 6:2: Is. 49:8 NLT “At just the right time, I will respond to you. On the day of salvation I will help you. And these next words are frequently repeated by the Lord elsewhere, therefore, IMPORTANT: Is. 49:23b NLT Then you will know that I am the LORD. Those who trust in me will never be put to shame.” REVELATION 3a: The churches of Pergamum and Thyatira (chapter 2) were enduring and remaining loyal to Jesus. But both were allowing the corruption of false teaching that promoted adultery and idolatry. Jesus warned of severe punishments including death for those who failed to repent, and also wonderful promises to those who are victorious. I especially love the last promise to the church in Pergamum because it shows how intimately Jesus knows us and how his rewards will be appropriate for each of us: Rev. 2:17b NLT And I will give to each one a white stone, and on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it. GNT Translation notes: Rev. 3:7 “To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: “[I am the one who is holy and true. My message to you is this://This is the message from the one who is holy and true.] [I have//He has] the key that belonged to David, and when [I open//he opens] a door, no one can close it, and when [I close a door//he closes it], no one can open it. 12 I will make those who are victorious pillars in the temple of my God, and they will never [have to] leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which will come down out of heaven from my God. I will also write on them my new name.

MICAH 1-2:The name “Micah” is a shortened form of “Micaiah,” which means, “Who is like Yahweh?” A different Micaiah, the son of Imlah, served as a prophet in the Northern Kingdom during the reign of King Ahab of Israel (874-853 B.C., 1Kings 22:8-28; 2Chron. 18:3-27). Micah prophesied during the reigns of the Judean kings Jotham (750-732 B.C.), Ahaz (732-715 B.C.), and Hezekiah (715-686 B.C.). This makes him a late eighth-century contemporary of Isaiah. While Isaiah was ministering in Jerusalem, perhaps Micah was more of a country prophet. Amos and Hosea were preaching at the same time in the Northern Kingdom. Micah’s message is similar to that of Amos, and Micah spoke at a time when conditions in Judah were much like those in the Northern Kingdom while Amos was preaching. Both prophets denounced social sins and the unfair treatment of the poor by the rich. The Northern Kingdom was taken into captivity during Micah’s lifetime— fulfilling Amos’ prophecies. Micah contains three notable passages about Christ: Bethlehem will produce the ultimate Ruler 5:2— the information quoted to Herod in Mat. 2. Christ will be the King 2:12-13 Christ will reign in righteousness over the whole earth 4:1,7-8 ISAIAH 50:As we heard yesterday, Isaiah 49 includes these words that are quoted in 2Cor 6:2: Is. 49:8 NLT “At just the right time, I will respond to you.On the day of salvation I will help you. And these next words are frequently repeated by the Lord elsewhere, therefore, IMPORTANT:  Is. 49:23b NLT Then you will know that I am the LORD. Those who trust in me will never be put to shame.” REVELATION 3a:The churches of Pergamum and Thyatira (chapter 2) were enduring and remaining loyal to Jesus. But both were allowing the corruption of false teaching that promoted adultery and idolatry. Jesus warned of severe punishments including death for those who failed to repent, and also wonderful promises to those who are victorious. I especially love the last promise to the church in Pergamum because it shows how intimately Jesus knows us and how his rewards will be appropriate for each of us: Rev. 2:17b NLT And I will give to each one a white stone, and on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it. GNT Translation notes:Rev. 3:7 “To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: “[I am the one who is holy and true. My message to you is this://This is the message from the one who is holy and true.] [I have//He has] the key that belonged to David, and when [I open//he opens] a door, no one can close it, and when [I close a door//he closes it], no one can open it.12 I will make those who are victorious pillars in the temple of my God, and they will never [have to] leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which will come down out of heaven from my God. I will also write on them my new name.

Gen. 2:25 NLT Now the man and his wife were both naked, but they felt no shame.Gen 3:7-13 NLT At that moment their eyes were opened, and they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So they sewed fig leaves together to cover themselves. 8When the cool evening breezes were blowing, the man and his wife heard the LordGod walking about in the garden. So they hid from the Lord God among the trees. 9Then the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” 10He replied, “I heard you walking in the garden, so I hid. I was afraid because I was naked.” 11“Who told you that you were naked?” the Lord God asked. “Have you eaten from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat?” 12The man replied, “It was the woman you gave me who gave me the fruit, and I ate it.” 13Then the Lord God asked the woman, “What have you done?” “The serpent deceived me,” she replied. “That’s why I ate it.”The Shame 1-2-3's1. We all have it.2. We're all afraid to talk about it.3. The less we talk about shame the more control it has over us.I.What is shame?A.Gen. 2:25 Now the man and his wife were both naked, but they felt no shame.B.Shame is a feeling of being flawed that causes us to be fearful of being uncovered, unworthy, and/or rejected. II.How does shame affect us?A.Gen. 3:7 At that moment their eyes were opened, and they suddenly felt shame at their nakedness. So, they sewed fig leaves together to cover themselves. B.Shame causes us to hide. III.How do we overcome shame?A.Gen. 3:21And the Lord God made clothing from animal skins for Adam and his wife.B.2 Cor. 5:21For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering forour sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ. C.Hebrews 12:1-2 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowdof witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Nowhe is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.D.Steps to Overcoming Shame:1.Get Naked 2.Get FocusedPs. 75:7 It is God alone who judges;he decides who will rise and whowill fall.3.Get to the Cross Mk 15:19 And they struck him on the head with a reed stick, spit on him, and dropped to their knees in mock worship.Big Idea: Jesus died a shameful death so that we don’t have to live a shameful life.

MICAH 1-2:The name “Micah” is a shortened form of “Micaiah,” which means, “Who is like Yahweh?” A different Micaiah, the son of Imlah, served as a prophet in the Northern Kingdom during the reign of King Ahab of Israel (874-853 B.C., 1Kings 22:8-28; 2Chron. 18:3-27). Micah prophesied during the reigns of the Judean kings Jotham (750-732 B.C.), Ahaz (732-715 B.C.), and Hezekiah (715-686 B.C.). This makes him a late eighth-century contemporary of Isaiah. While Isaiah was ministering in Jerusalem, perhaps Micah was more of a country prophet. Amos and Hosea were preaching at the same time in the Northern Kingdom. Micah’s message is similar to that of Amos, and Micah spoke at a time when conditions in Judah were much like those in the Northern Kingdom while Amos was preaching. Both prophets denounced social sins and the unfair treatment of the poor by the rich. The Northern Kingdom was taken into captivity during Micah’s lifetime— fulfilling Amos’ prophecies. Micah contains three notable passages about Christ: Bethlehem will produce the ultimate Ruler 5:2— the information quoted to Herod in Mat. 2. Christ will be the King 2:12-13 Christ will reign in righteousness over the whole earth 4:1,7-8 ISAIAH 50:As we heard yesterday, Isaiah 49 includes these words that are quoted in 2Cor 6:2: Is. 49:8 NLT “At just the right time, I will respond to you.On the day of salvation I will help you. And these next words are frequently repeated by the Lord elsewhere, therefore, IMPORTANT: Is. 49:23b NLT Then you will know that I am the LORD.Those who trust in me will never be put to shame.” REVELATION 3a:The churches of Pergamum and Thyatira (chapter 2) were enduring and remaining loyal to Jesus. But both were allowing the corruption of false teaching that promoted adultery and idolatry. Jesus warned of severe punishments including death for those who failed to repent, and also wonderful promises to those who are victorious. I especially love the last promise to the church in Pergamum because it shows how intimately Jesus knows us and how his rewards will be appropriate for each of us: Rev. 2:17b NLT And I will give to each one a white stone, and on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it. GNT Translation notes:Rev. 3:7 “To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: “[I am the one who is holy and true. My message to you is this://This is the message from the one who is holy and true.] [I have//He has] the key that belonged to David, and when [I open//he opens] a door, no one can close it, and when [I close a door//he closes it], no one can open it.12 I will make those who are victorious pillars in the temple of my God, and they will never [have to] leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which will come down out of heaven from my God. I will also write on them my new name.

#332 Christmas Miracles Series# 4, Candlelight By: Pastor D. Karl Thomas Christmas is all about little things. 1. Little Places   2. Little People    3. Little Participation Luke 2:1-20 NLT At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius […]

Jeremiah 17:5-10, NIV This is what the Lord says: “Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord. That person will be like a bush in the wastelands; they will not see prosperity when it comes. They will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives. “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? “I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.” We are all on a journey! Ephesians 1:4-5, MSG Long before he laid down earth's foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) Ephesians 4:11-16, NLT 12 Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. ...that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. 14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. 15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. 16 He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love. What is my Next Step? Sticks: Factor In Jesus Mark 10:52, NLT And Jesus said to him, “Go, for your faith has healed you.” Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road. John 6:66-69, NLT “At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?” Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God. ”Where would we go?” Stones: Remember when Jesus made the difference

Giant killers – How to kill a giant1. First things first – Know your Authority as a believer right now.1 John 4:4 You dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.Col 2:15 Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.Eph 1:20,21 He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.How much power does Jesus have over Satan right now? Eph 2:6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.Rom 8:37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors.1 John 5:4 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.2. The Weapon of Praise – Release your Faith2 Chron 20:22 (NLT) At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the Lord caused the armies to start fighting among themselves.Ps 22:3 You are holy, Enthroned in the praises of your people.3 weapons of warfare: intercessory prayer, confessing God's word, and praise. God establishes his throne, dominion and power in our praise.Ps 8:2 Praise silences the enemy and the avenger. #shutupdevilPs 47:1 Shout to God with the voice of victory!Ex 7:16 Let my people go, so that they may worship me.The devil is not afraid of you, he is afraid of your Faith.The Shout of Victory is our corporate declaration of our faith.Joshua 6:16,20 When the priests blew the trumpets, that Joshua said to the people: “Shout, for the Lord has given you the city! 20 So the people shouted when the priests blew the trumpets. And it happened when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat.3. Taking Giant Spoil - There is Prosperity in Our Praise2 Chron 20:25-26 (NLT) King Jehoshaphat and his men went out to gather the plunder. They found vast amounts of equipment, clothing, and other valuables—more than they could carry. There was so much plunder that it took them three days just to collect it all! 26 On the fourth day they gathered in the Valley of Blessing, which got its name that day because the people praised and thanked the Lord there. It is still called the Valley of Blessing today.Behind every giant is promotion, prosperity and breakthrough.Tithe and Offering –The cause of ChristPs 35:27 Let them shout for joy and be glad, Who favor my righteous cause; And let them say continually, "Let the Lord be magnified, Who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant."The cause of Christ is to save souls and make disciples. God's promise must be our consistent confession.Prov 10:22 The blessing of the Lord makes a person rich (abundantly supplied for) , and he adds no sorrow with it.

Today we are diving into our last message in our series, “THE ANCHOR” (The HOPE we have because of Jesus…)  We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure…Hebrews 6:19 (NIV) Hope = Confident expectation based on something solid “My  hope is built on nothing less… than Jesus' blood and righteousness.” Maybe today you walked in, HOPELESS… If that's you today, look around you, stop and ask someone to share their story.    Recap:  What is HOPE? / Where does HOPE come from? / HOPE for my future Our number one prayer for you is this… that you latch onto this HOPE we have in Jesus.  HOPE that keeps us standing, when the entire world is shaken…HOPE that never fails.  Because of this HOPE… we are anchored, secure… May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (NIV) Transition:  Today we will look at our final thought on HOPE… What some call, THE BLESED HOPE…The ultimate hope that there really is something beyond this life.   (Pray) Story/Illustration: Transition:  You see, the hope we have is not solely to get through this life… but it's hope NOW that there is another level of HOPE… Heaven. With as much HOPE as we have now, we still face things… hard times, difficulties, obstacles. (My Season of ministry… “Why can't I find balance?” “Because this isn't home.”) We will have seasons of pain/suffering/frustration… and we learned a couple weeks ago that that is part of God's process of producing HOPE in us. 3 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope… Romans 5:2-4 (ESV) The ultimate HOPE we have is that this life is NOT all there is… there is an eternity of JOY and PEACE that awaits us!   11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ… Titus 2:11-13 (NIV) (Eternal life) We have to change our focus… from just finding hope in this life, to living our life in light of our eternal hope…(Peoples efforts to find hope HERE)  Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. 14 For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.                                    1 Thessalonians 4:13-15 (NIV) The HOPE of Jesus is what has caused “Death to lose it's Sting”…(1 cor. 15:55) 6 As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 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 4:6-8 (NLT) At the end of your life… and everyday… THIS is the goal (James… your life is but a vapor) Heaven is a reality we need to live in… But there are a lot of misconceptions of Heave; Clouds, robes, halos Never ending church service (singing forever) Celestial retirement home So unreal… Transition:  But what does the bible say about Heaven? Heaven is a REAL place Revelation 21… talks all about the city of Heaven, New Jerusalem.   1400 miles in every direction / walls 200 ft. thick of solid jasper / 12 gates made from a single pearl / transparent streets of gold… amazing! My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. John 14:2-3 (NIV) Heaven is a RIGHT place Think about every wrong with this life… your life… And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God's dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Revelation 21:3-5 (NIV) No pain, disappointment, insecurity, loss of innocence, worry, fear, bills, sickness... Heaven is a RELATIONAL place A place where you will see your loved ones who walked with Jesus… (Those who didn't?) For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:17-18 (NIV) Heaven is a REWARDING place “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. Revelation 22:12 (NKJV) Transition:  That's great that we have that to look forward to, but how do we have ETERNAL HOPE… Now? Remove Your Doubt I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6 (NLT) Replace Your Anxiety So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV) Refocus Your Energy When we truly understand heaven… we will live different. Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV) Big Idea: Hope is not some elusive idea or feeling that we are always chasing... Hope is not some cliche that hangs on our walls... Hope is real... tangible... available. Challenge:  If we will commit to these 4 areas... Not only will we find supernatural levels of HOPE in our lives, but God will use us to carry that HOPE into our world... Where are you this morning? Salvation?

Today we are diving into our last message in our series, “THE ANCHOR” (The HOPE we have because of Jesus…)    We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure…Hebrews 6:19 (NIV)   Hope = Confident expectation based on something solid   “My  hope is built on nothing less… than Jesus' blood and righteousness.”   Maybe today you walked in, HOPELESS… If that's you today, look around you, stop and ask someone to share their story.     Recap:  What is HOPE? / Where does HOPE come from? / HOPE for my future   Our number one prayer for you is this… that you latch onto this HOPE we have in Jesus.  HOPE that keeps us standing, when the entire world is shaken…HOPE that never fails.  Because of this HOPE… we are anchored, secure… May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (NIV) Transition:  Today we will look at our final thought on HOPE… What some call, THE BLESED HOPE…The ultimate hope that there really is something beyond this life.   (Pray)   Story/Illustration:   Transition:  You see, the hope we have is not solely to get through this life… but it's hope NOW that there is another level of HOPE… Heaven.   With as much HOPE as we have now, we still face things… hard times, difficulties, obstacles.   (My Season of ministry… “Why can't I find balance?” “Because this isn't home.”)   We will have seasons of pain/suffering/frustration… and we learned a couple weeks ago that that is part of God's process of producing HOPE in us.   3 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope… Romans 5:2-4 (ESV) The ultimate HOPE we have is that this life is NOT all there is… there is an eternity of JOY and PEACE that awaits us!  11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ… Titus 2:11-13 (NIV) (Eternal life)   We have to change our focus… from just finding hope in this life, to living our life in light of our eternal hope…(Peoples efforts to find hope HERE)  Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. 14 For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.                                    1 Thessalonians 4:13-15 (NIV) The HOPE of Jesus is what has caused “Death to lose it's Sting”…(1 cor. 15:55) 6 As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 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 4:6-8 (NLT) At the end of your life… and everyday… THIS is the goal (James… your life is but a vapor)   Heaven is a reality we need to live in… But there are a lot of misconceptions of Heave; §  Clouds, robes, halos §  Never ending church service (singing forever) §  Celestial retirement home §  So unreal…   Transition:  But what does the bible say about Heaven?   1.    Heaven is a REAL place   Revelation 21… talks all about the city of Heaven, New Jerusalem.    1400 miles in every direction / walls 200 ft. thick of solid jasper / 12 gates made from a single pearl / transparent streets of gold… amazing! My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. John 14:2-3 (NIV) 2.    Heaven is a RIGHT place   Think about every wrong with this life… your life… And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God's dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Revelation 21:3-5 (NIV) No pain, disappointment, insecurity, loss of innocence, worry, fear, bills, sickness... 3.    Heaven is a RELATIONAL place   A place where you will see your loved ones who walked with Jesus… (Those who didn't?)   For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:17-18 (NIV)   4.    Heaven is a REWARDING place “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. Revelation 22:12 (NKJV) Transition:  That's great that we have that to look forward to, but how do we have ETERNAL HOPE… Now? 1.    Remove Your Doubt I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6 (NLT) 2.    Replace Your Anxiety So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV) 3.    Refocus Your Energy   When we truly understand heaven… we will live different. Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV) Big Idea: Hope is not some elusive idea or feeling that we are always chasing... Hope is not some cliche that hangs on our walls...   Hope is real... tangible... available.   Challenge:  If we will commit to these 4 areas... Not only will we find supernatural levels of HOPE in our lives, but God will use us to carry that HOPE into our world...   Where are you this morning?   Salvation?

Monday, July 15, 2013 Unyielding DEU 3:21-29 NLT “At that time I gave Joshua this charge: ‘You have seen for yourself everything the Lord your God has done to these two kings. He will do the same to all the kingdoms on the west side of the Jordan. Do not be afraid of the nations there, for the Lord your God will fight for you.’ “At that time I pleaded with the Lord and said, ‘O Sovereign Lord, you have only begun to show your greatness and the strength of your hand to me, your servant. Is there any god in heaven or on earth who can perform such great and mighty deeds as you do? Please let me cross the Jordan to see the wonderful land on the other side, the beautiful hill country and the Lebanon mountains.’ “But the Lord was angry with me because of you, and he would not listen to me. ‘That’s enough!’ he declared. ‘Speak of it no more. But go up to Pisgah Peak, and look over the land in every direction. Take a good look, but you may not cross the Jordan River. Instead, commission Joshua and encourage and strengthen him, for he will lead the people across the Jordan. He will give them all the land you now see before you as their possession.’ So we stayed in the valley near Beth-peor. -------- I've been waiting for more than 13 years for something quite important to happen and 24 years for another thing to happen. Neither thing is trivial and both very much have seemed God's plan. Moses had been waiting for about 80 years to see God's promise. And for the last 40 years Moses' whole goal was to lead these People into God's promised land. Now he can't go. Furthermore, his new goal is to prepare his assistant, Joshua, for the job. This is a hard pill to swallow and Moses begs God to reconsider. I'm not sure how many times Moses had mentioned it. It could be that it is only those few times recorded in Numbers and Deuteronomy or it could have become a repeated refrain of Moses' prayer life. However many times Moses had asked, God has had enough and tells Moses, "‘Speak of it no more." What must Moses have felt? It seems to me there a only a few things that make this news bearable. And I'm still left with a few questions Moses was old and was going to die soon so he'd not have to face this disappointment for long and he'd then be in a much better place. Moses was confident that God's plan was going forward under Joshua leadership so the people would realise the goal Moses at least knew the final word on the matter and could at least not be in any doubt as to God's feelings on the matter. But why is it that Moses seems to be able to pass the blame for his not being able to enter the Promised Land on to the Children of Israel rather than on his and his brother's disobedience. Numbers 20:12-13 NLT But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust me enough to demonstrate my holiness to the people of Israel, you will not lead them into the land I am giving them!” This place was known as the waters of Meribah (which means “arguing”) because there the people of Israel argued with the Lord , and there he demonstrated his holiness among them. Sometimes we get all worked up and begin to identify with someone like Moses in the bible. But this is not Moses story. this is God's story. We are meant to be hearing and identifying with the one who deserves and demands our uncompromising love. This is a story about a compassionate, holy, promise keeping God. A story of hope and redemption a story that leads us to Jesus. Moses is not a saviour. Moses could not finish what he set out to do. Every attempt by man to live up to the standard will fall short. Only Jesus is righteous enough, ultimately only Jesus saves. In the end Joshua begins the next step but he too will be incomplete. But we are promised with Jesus he can finish the work! He can succeed where all other have failed. Moses in the end is just like you. Just a person who will ultimately fail on their own and not make it to the goal. Only in Christ can you make it to the end!

  The Title of message:  Do Not Worry (Hebrews 12:2) (Message) “Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race weʼre in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed--that exhilarating finish in and with God--he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now heʼs there, in the place of honor, right alongside God.” (Luke 23:46) “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.”(Psalm 31:5) “Into your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O LORD, the God of truth.” (Matthew 27:46) (NLT) “At about three o'clock, Jesus called out with a loud voice…“My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?” (1 Peter 5:7) “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”(Philippians 4:6-7) (LB) “Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs … If you do this, you will experience Godʼs peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand.” Why worry?  Worry is unreasonable.(Matthew 6:25) “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?” Worry is unnatural.(Matthew 6:26) “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”Worry is unhelpful. (Matthew 6:27) “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?”Worry is unnecessary.(Matthew 6:30) “If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?” 3 Steps to be Free of Worry(Psalm 31:4-5) “Free me from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O LORD, theGod of truth.”1. Get to know God. (Matthew 6:31-32) “So do not worry, saying, ʻWhat shall we eat?ʼ or ʻWhat shall we drink?ʼ or ʻWhat shall we wear?ʼ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.” (Matthew 6:32)  (Message) “People who donʼt know God and the way He works worry over these things…”2. Put God first in every area of your life.(Matthew 6:33) “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” 3. Live one day at a time.(Matthew 6:34) “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”(Psalm 31:4-5) “Free me from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O LORD, the God of truth.”