Podcasts about nlt

“But I am not surprised! Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.” (2 Corinthians 11:14 NLT) When I was a kid, I collected snakes. I’m not sure why, but I used to be fascinated by them. I had all kinds. I would read books about snakes. I would go out looking for snakes and bring them home. I was bitten many times. I discovered that you never really know what a snake is thinking. Snakes aren’t expressive creatures; they’re cold-blooded reptiles. Snakes are nothing like dogs. You know where you are with a dog at any given moment. When a dog looks at you with his tongue hanging out and his tail wagging, you know he’s friendly. But if a dog bares his teeth and the hair on his back starts to stand up, then you know he isn’t happy. You always know where you stand with a dog. But you never know with a snake. A snake maintains the same expression all the time. A snake will suddenly bite you, and you won’t even see it coming. In Genesis 3:1, we’re told, “The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made” (NLT). He was shrewd because he didn’t make his intentions obvious. His approach concealed his true purpose. He didn’t show up and say, “Hi, I’m the devil. Maybe you’ve heard of me. I hate God, I hate you, and I want to destroy you. I was wondering if you wanted to hang out. I have some ideas.” The Bible tells us that the devil was a serpent, but it doesn’t say that he slithered. He slithered after he was cursed (see Genesis 3:14). We don’t know what he looked like before the curse, but there seems to be something fascinating, interesting, and appealing about him. Perhaps he was attractive, and that made his temptation attractive. The apostle Paul wrote, “But I am not surprised! Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14 NLT). What could be less threatening than an angel of light? Pop culture plays into the devil’s hands by depicting him as a red, cloven-footed, pitchfork-wielding monster. If that were the case, he would be an obvious threat. He wouldn’t be able to get close to us because our first instinct would be to run from him. We would have no trouble following James’ instruction, “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7 NLT). The devil is able to get close to us because he is shrewd. He can hide his true nature. He can disguise his purposes and strategies. He can convince us to lower our guard and ignore our conscience. In short, he makes himself as irresistible as possible. The devil may be wicked, but he isn’t stupid. He approaches us with a practiced subtlety. To resist him, we must stay close to God and His Word. He is helpless against them. Reflection question: What subtle means might the devil use to tempt you? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8 NLT) The Bible doesn’t tell us how long Adam and Eve lived in the Garden of Eden before temptation reared its head. The devil certainly had heard God’s warning to Adam: “You may freely eat the fruit of every tree in the garden—except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat its fruit, you are sure to die” (Genesis 2:16–17 NLT). In narrative of Genesis, the tempter appears almost immediately with his wily pitch. His immediate appearance reminds me of Jesus’ parable of the Sower in Matthew 13. As the farmer scatters seed, some of it falls on the footpath. Birds quickly swoop in and devour it before it has a chance to grow. If you’ve ever dropped a French fry outside a McDonald’s in a heavily birded area, you can probably picture the scene. Birds suddenly seem to appear out of nowhere. If you live near a beach, you know there are seagulls that will swoop in and fly off with your lunch, your small dog, or your children. Jesus said, “The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message about the Kingdom and don’t understand it. Then the evil one comes and snatches away the seed that was planted in their hearts” (Matthew 13:19 NLT). This is one of the many reasons we need to pray for people who have just come to Christ. The devil will be at their door with temptation, doubt, and an onslaught of other things. Remember that wherever God is blessing, the devil will be opposing—immediately. He isn’t going to wait a year. He isn’t going to wait a month. He may not even wait an hour. You can be walking out of church when temptation suddenly strikes. You think, “What’s going on? Why here? Why now?” The fact is that Satan wants to undermine what just happened in your life. He opposes immediately. He always will. The apostle Peter wrote, “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8 NLT). The devil knows all too well the power of God’s Word. According to Matthew 4:1–11, after Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit led Him to the wilderness, where He fasted for forty days. The devil appeared to Him there in His weakened state. Three times the devil tempted Jesus to deviate from God’s plan. Three times Jesus responded by quoting Scripture. Finally, Jesus commanded the devil to leave, and the devil went away. The devil knows what will happen if the seeds of Scripture start to take root in a believer’s life. He knows that a heart in which the words of the Bible are hidden is hard to access. He knows that a life guided by the Word of God is hard to disrupt. Reflection question: How can you keep the devil from snatching away a nugget of wisdom from God’s Word in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is It Wrong to Read Your Bible Out of Habit? Religion vs. Relationship With GodSeason 5, Episode 4 | Faith, Spirituality & Religiosity Series (2 of 6)Have you ever skipped your Bible reading or meditation and spent the rest of the day waiting for something to go wrong? Or maybe you're not sure about God at all, and the reason has more to do with a person than with God. In part two of the faith series, Julie explores what it means to know God secondhand, through a habit, a feeling, or someone else's story, and walks through Recognition and Release using her own story, from a fourth-grade devotional to raising her own kids.Is it wrong to read my Bible out of habit?No. Habits aren't the problem. The question is what the habit is doing for you. If it's how you stay close to God, that's relationship. If it's how you stay safe from God, or prove something to the people around you, that's religiosity dressed up as relationship.Why do I feel so resistant to God?Sometimes it's because of something God did. But often, if we're honest, it's because of something a person did, or something we heard happened to someone else. The anger may be completely right. The question is whether it's aimed at the right one.How can I tell if my faith practice is religion or relationship?Notice what you feel when you miss it. If it feels like you broke a rule, that's religiosity. If it feels like you miss Him, that's relationship. A second test comes from Matthew 6: would you still do it if no one ever knew?Key takeaways from this episode:A spiritual practice is only as healthy as the reason behind it. Reading your Bible, meditating, or going to church isn't the problem. What matters is whether you're doing it to be close to God or to stay safe from Him.You can know God secondhand in three ways. Through the doing (religiosity), through the feeling (spirituality), and through hearsay (someone else's story). None of them is the same as knowing Him yourself.Your practice may be driven by more than one motive. Finish the sentence "I read my Bible because..." Is it to stay safe, to belong, to be right, to feel covered, or to be with Him? Most people find a mix, and noticing it is the first step, not a verdict.What you feel when you miss it tells you what's driving it. "I broke a rule" points to religiosity. "I miss Him" points to relationship. And if you'd stop the practice once no one could see it, that's worth noticing too.Long relationships drift quietly, including with God. Drift hides inside routine, so showing up isn't the same as connecting.We often judge God on gossip. Many beliefs about God come from what a person did, what happened to someone we love, or what we absorbed in childhood. Knowing the stories isn't the same as knowing Him.Your anger may be right, and still be aimed at the wrong one. Holding people accountable for harm done in God's name is different from holding God responsible for it.Release doesn't mean giving up your practice or your discernment. You can set down the fear-based contract and keep the reading. You can set down a secondhand verdict and still stay wise about what hurt you.Scripture referencedMatthew 6:5-6 (NLT)Proverbs 4:23 (NLT and The Message)Reflection question for the weekIs what I believe about God something I've experienced, or something I've heard?Explore Identity-Level Recalibration→  One link to all things → Schedule a conversation with Julie to see if The Recalibration is a fit for you→ Learn about The Recalibration Cohort→ Books to read  (Tidy categories on Amazon- I've read/listened to each recommended title.)

“So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” (Hebrews 4:16 NLT) One of the most jaw-dropping passages in all of Scripture is found in Hebrews 4:16: “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” (NLT). If you’ve spent any time in the book of Revelation, you know that God’s throne is a place of holiness and magnificence. The idea of being able to approach it boldly is hard for a lot of less-than-perfect people to wrap their heads around. Our enemy, the devil, is aware of that. He uses our struggles with “imposter syndrome” to his advantage. He tries to put distance between us and our heavenly Father by making us feel unworthy to approach Him. He wants to rob us of the boldness that the author of Hebrews talked about. Those who already struggle with feelings of unworthiness are easy marks for him. So, how do we overcome the devil and his tactics? In the book of Revelation, we are introduced to a group of believers who are able to do just that: “And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. And they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die” (Revelation 12:11 NLT). They have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb. The next time the devil tempts you to think that you’re not worthy to approach God, here’s what I advise: Agree with him wholeheartedly. Say, “You’re right. I’m not worthy to approach God. I never was worthy to approach God. I never will be worthy to approach God. My access to God’s presence is not based on my worthiness; it is based on what Christ did for me on the cross. He is worthy—and because of Him I am accepted and can come boldly to God.” Sometimes we get into the mentality as Christians that if we are doing well spiritually, then we can approach God in prayer. If, say, we get up in the morning, read four chapters from the Bible, give thanks for our meals, and share our faith with someone, then we think we can approach God. But if the next day we sleep in and don’t read the Bible, if we forget to say grace over our meals and don’t share our faith, then we think we’re not worthy to approach Him. But that’s not the case. Those things are certainly important. But your access to God is based on Christ, not on your spiritual performance. If you’ve done well, then great. Approach God. But if you’ve sinned, then approach God and say, “Lord, I have sinned. This is why I need the blood of the Lamb.” The devil will always try to keep you away from the cross. But the Holy Spirit will always bring you to it. Reflection question: What might make you feel unworthy to approach God? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything you do. Try to please them all the time, not just when they are watching you. Serve them sincerely because of your reverent fear of the Lord. Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ. But if you do what is wrong, you will be paid back for the wrong you have done. For God has no favorites.”‭‭- Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭25‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Welcome to Day 2959 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2959– “People Get Ready” – Luke 12:35-48 Putnam Church Message – 09/20/2026 The Good News According to Luke: “People, Get Ready”   Last week, our message was “The Testimony of a Fool,” and we learned that wherever your treasure is... your heart will follow, and we need to make certain our hearts are headed toward home. Today, we continue with our thirty-ninth message from Luke's narrative of the Good News of Jesus Christ. Today's message is: “People, Get Ready.” Our core passage today is Luke 12:35-48, starting on page 1618 of your pew Bibles.  “Be Ready for the Lord's Coming” 35 “Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning, 36 as though you were waiting for your master to return from the wedding feast. Then you will be ready to open the door and let him in the moment he arrives and knocks. 37 The servants who are ready and waiting for his return will be rewarded. I tell you the truth, he himself will seat them, put on an apron, and serve them as they sit and eat! 38 He may come in the middle of the night or just before dawn.[d] But whenever he comes, he will reward the servants who are ready. 39 “Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would not permit his house to be broken into. 40 You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.” 41 Peter asked, “Lord, is that illustration just for us or for everyone?” 42 And the Lord replied, “A faithful, sensible servant is one to whom the master can give the responsibility of managing his other household servants and feeding them. 43 If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward. 44 I tell you the truth, the master will put that servant in charge of all he owns. 45 But what if the servant thinks, ‘My master won't be back for a while,' and he begins beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk? 46 The master will return unannounced and unexpected, and he will cut the servant in pieces and banish him with the unfaithful. 47 “And a servant who knows what the master wants, but isn't prepared and doesn't carry out those instructions, will be severely punished. 48 But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required. Opening Prayer Father, we come before You today as people living between promise and fulfillment. Your Kingdom has come near in Jesus Christ, yet we still wait for the day when the King returns and all things are made new. Lord Jesus, teach us to live ready. Keep us from drifting into complacency, distraction, fear, or selfishness. Make us faithful stewards of the time, truth, resources, and responsibilities You have placed in our hands. Holy Spirit, give us wisdom to live today in light of eternity. May we not merely talk about Christ's return, but live in such a way that we are prepared to welcome Him. In Jesus' name, amen. Introduction: Prepared Before the Crisis On March 18, 1979, Stephanie May received news no person is prepared to hear. A twin-engine airplane had crashed shortly after takeoff near Aspen, Colorado. In a single moment, she lost her husband, John Edward; her twenty-two-year-old son, Davin; her eighteen-year-old daughter, Karla; and her son-in-law, Richard. / Four people she loved were suddenly gone. / There is no way to prepare emotionally on March 17 for something like March 18. Yet over the following weeks Stephanie kept a journal. She poured her grief onto its pages, and eventually she wrote words that reveal something important about readiness. / She admitted she was not strong. / She did not pretend she was brave. She simply said, in essence: “I am a Christian carrying a burden. My faith has survived. My life belongs to God. I have walked through hell, but now I walk with God in peace.” How could she say that? Because the spiritual foundation she needed on March 18 had been laid long before March 18. That is the kind of readiness Jesus is talking about today. Last week, in “The Testimony of a Fool,” Jesus told us not to build bigger barns while neglecting eternity. He told us not to worry about food or clothing, but to seek God's Kingdom first. He told His “little flock” not to be afraid because the Father delights to give them the Kingdom. Now Jesus continues: If the Kingdom is really your treasure... If the Father really is trustworthy... If eternity really matters more than earthly accumulation... Then: People, get ready. Do not wait until tragedy comes. Do not wait until persecution comes. Do not wait until the end of life comes. Do not wait until Christ returns. Prepare your heart now. Let's explore four truths for today's lesson as found on your bulletin insert on the side that says: People, Get Ready! Truth 1: Live Ready Because the Master Is Returning Luke 12:35–40 Jesus begins with a vivid command: “Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning.” The literal image is to have your loins girded. That sounds strange to us because we wear clothing differently. / In the first century, men wore long tunics. If someone needed to run, work, climb, or fight, the flowing garment would get in the way. So, the person would gather the fabric, pull it upward, and tuck it securely into the belt. It meant: Ready for action. We might say today: “Keep your shoes on.” “Have your bags packed.” “Keep the engine running.” “Stay ready.” Then Jesus adds: “Keep your lamps burning.” Oil lamps required attention. / A neglected lamp could go out. / A servant waiting late into the night had to trim the wick, replenish the oil, and stay awake. / Jesus is describing a disciple who lives with spiritual alertness. The Returning Master Jesus pictures servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet. / Ancient wedding celebrations could last several days. / The servants knew the master would return. / They simply did not know when. / Maybe early. / Maybe midnight. / Maybe near dawn. The question was not: “Will he return?” The question was: “Will the household be ready when he does?” That distinction matters. / Christian hope is not built on speculation about whether Christ will return. Jesus says He will. The issue is readiness. The Astonishing Reversal Then Jesus says something remarkable. If the master returns and finds the servants ready, the master will dress himself to serve them. (NLT) he himself will seat them, put on an apron, and serve them as they sit and eat!  That would have shocked His hearers. / Masters did not return home and serve servants. / Servants served masters. / Yet Jesus says the returning Lord will seat His faithful servants at the table and serve them. Does that sound familiar? John 13 shows Jesus removing His outer robe, wrapping a towel around His waist, kneeling, and washing His disciples' feet. The King becomes the servant. / And one day, the...

“Then I heard a loud voice shouting across the heavens, ‘It has come at last—salvation and power and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to earth—the one who accuses them before our God day and night.’” (Revelation 12:10 NLT) Victor Hugo, the author of Les Misérables, observed, “A good general must penetrate the brain of his enemy.” Understanding how an enemy thinks is the first step in defeating him. As believers, we face a formidable enemy in the devil. Yet, thanks to God’s Word, we have a pretty good sense of how the devil thinks and works. The apostle Paul urged believers in Corinth to forgive “so that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes” (2 Corinthians 2:11 NLT). One of the devil’s favorite evil schemes is to accuse believers. And he is relentless in this pursuit. Revelation 12:10 says, “Then I heard a loud voice shouting across the heavens, ‘It has come at last—salvation and power and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to earth—the one who accuses them before our God day and night’” (NLT). Here’s how he works. First, he comes at you with a temptation, usually one that’s carefully crafted to hit you where you’re most vulnerable. Suddenly, an ungodly, objectionable, dishonorable image or idea appears in your brain and tries to make a lasting impression. The effect can be jarring. You think, “Whoa, where did that come from?” as you try to scrub it from your consciousness. But the devil is quick to pounce. He goes into full prosecutor mode, preying on your conscience and self-image. He might say something like, “You are so twisted! What’s your problem? Why would you think such a horrible thought? And you call yourself a Christian! What kind of representative of Christ are you?” Left unchecked, his accusations can cause spiritual damage. But his accusations don’t go unchecked. Jesus serves as your defense attorney. He intercedes on your behalf. Jesus once said to Peter, “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat” (Luke 22:31 NLT). But then He went on to say, “But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail” (verse 32 NLT). Jesus counters the devil’s accusations with prayerful intercession. That’s what Paul was talking about when he wrote, “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” (Romans 8:34 NLT). The devil’s accusations are no match for Jesus’ defense. Don’t believe the lies of your enemy. See yourself as God sees you: forgiven and righteous because of the sacrifice of His Son. Reflection question: When are you most vulnerable to believing the devil’s accusations against you? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What someone meant to harm you, God can use to heal you and the people around you. Starting from Joseph's words to his brothers in Genesis 50 ("You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good"), Bishop Dale C. Bronner shows how poison and cure often sit side by side, with the dose making the difference. He draws on the cyanide at the core of an apple, Botox, viper venom, and the law's limit of forty lashes to show why balance is the key to life, why isolation distorts your view of reality, and why God may be asking one question: can He trust you with trouble? You'll learn: Why God showed Joseph the palace but never the pit or the prison How to "eat around the poison" in the people and situations in your life Why God put limits on punishment, and what that says about correction versus destruction How Agur's prayer for "neither poverty nor riches" applies to a culture of extremes What Elijah's breakdown teaches about the difference between being alone and being disconnected How Fanny Crosby's blindness became the source of nearly nine thousand hymns Why unforgiveness is poison you drink yourself, and how your testimony spreads the cure

A 6-year-old and a 17-year-old have different levels of responsibility when it comes to their parents. A 6-year-old can drop a plate of food, and the parents may laugh, but if the 17-year-old does the exact same thing, the parents may say, "You should know better." In the same way, this principle applies in the spiritual realm. As you are learning the things of God, you are accountable for what you know at the moment. As you mature, God holds you more and more accountable for the things you are learning. We should not live in fear that we are missing something. We should simply continue to grow and mature. As we know more, we do better. Instead of worrying about what we do not know at the moment, we should focus on doing the things we know are right. __________ 1 Corinthians 13:9-12 KJV, James 4:17 KJV, Romans 14:23 NLT, John 9:39-41 NLT __________ Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com __________    

“Therefore, rejoice, O heavens! And you who live in the heavens, rejoice! But terror will come on the earth and the sea, for the devil has come down to you in great anger, knowing that he has little time.” (Revelation 12:12 NLT) Imagine a life with no opposition—where everyone wants what’s best for you, where people celebrate your strengths instead of looking for your weaknesses, where no one feels threatened by your success, where no one takes an instant disliking to you based on what you look like, where you come from, or who you associate with, where no one wants to bring you down. For Christians, an opposition-free life awaits us just beyond this one. In the meantime, however, we must prepare ourselves for relentless opposition. The moment we accept Christ into our lives, we receive a Savior and Lord. But we also receive an enemy—the devil—who will stop at nothing to keep us from growing and thriving in our relationship with Christ. In this week’s devotions, we’re going to get to know this enemy so that we can better resist him. And the first thing we need to understand about him is that he’s doomed. His war against God and His people was lost forever when Jesus offered Himself as a perfect sacrifice and then rose from the dead. Satan’s fate is sealed. He will spend eternity in the lake of fire. He has a season of freedom before his judgment, but his time is limited. Bible commentator John Phillips wrote, “Satan is now like a caged lion, enraged beyond words by the limitations now placed upon his freedom. He picks himself up from the dust of the earth, shakes his fist at the sky, and glares around, choking with fury for ways to vent his hatred and spite upon humankind.” The devil does not want people to know that he is doomed. Revelation 12:12 says, “Therefore, rejoice, O heavens! And you who live in the heavens, rejoice! But terror will come on the earth and the sea, for the devil has come down to you in great anger, knowing that he has little time” (NLT). The phrase translated as great anger refers to a violent outburst of rage. It depicts a turbulent emotional fury rather than rational anger. The devil directs his fury at God’s people. He is helpless to dislodge believers from God’s hand. He cannot alter the amazing eternity that awaits us. But he can and does wreak as much havoc as possible in our lives here on earth. The devil’s time is short, so he’s determined to make the most of it. He will tempt us with things that put distance between us and God. He will send us down wrong paths. He will try to rob us of our joy. But we have the advantage because we know how his story ends. We know his doom is certain. And we are protected and strengthened by the One who will put the devil in his place. Reflection question: Why is it dangerous to underestimate the devil, even though his ultimate defeat is certain? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Gift of Limits | Tullian Tchividjian"Fragments of Freedom, Part 05" / Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 NLT

“Do not carouse with drunkards or feast with gluttons, for they are on their way to poverty, and too much sleep clothes them in rags.”- ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭23‬:‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭NLT

Your calling in Christ shapes how you walk, talk, and live every day. Key Scriptures: Ephesians 4:1-16 NLT, Psalm 68:18 Connect with us & let us know you are listening and how we can pray for you... https://www.pursuitnazarene.org/online-connection-card

The apostles of Christ were common men. That's God's modus operandi (way of doing things). “God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful” (1 Corinthians 1:27, NLT). Here, as Jesus sends them out, we can see five stages for any of us who live to do God's work.I. Mission (v. 7)II. Provision (vv. 9-10)III. Proclamation (vv. 10, 12)IV. Opposition (v. 11)V. Completion (vv. 12-13)Learn Your Bible: Search for instances of God using unexpected, common people to accomplish His will throughout the Bible.Love Your Neighbor: Look for a small way to serve someone practically this week.Live in Freedom: Meditate on 1 Corinthians 1:27 and surrender your need to prove yourself useful to the kingdom of God.

Technology is both an opportunity and an obstacle. It just depends on how you use it. We've spent three weeks asking how our screens influence us, but today, we will ask how are we influencing others through our screens, specifically through social media? Paul tells one of his pastors, Titus, to encourage his church to be mindful of how they act for the sake of the gospel.Titus 2:10 NLT ...Then they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive in every way. If Jesus has your attention, and Jesus has your affection, your action for Jesus should make Jesus attractive. Christians should use social media differently than non-Christians. We're called to be different, and that not only includes what is on our screens, but what comes from our screens. Social media is going to amplify what's already in your heart—whether good or bad. So we need to be careful and consider how we use it. Ephesians 5:8-10 NLT For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. Carefully determine what pleases the Lord.Carefully, not carelessly. Three questions we should ask ourselves before we post something on social media: 1. IS IT           ?John 14:6 NLT I am the way, the truth, and the life. The best lie detector isn't a fact-checker, but intimacy with Jesus, who is the Truth.Why would someone listen to you about your faith if you don't care about the truth in other areas of your life? Social media is not all real.Your feed tempts you to sacrifice what's real for what's rehearsed; what's factual for what's fake. Social media makes it easier to bear false witness against your neighbor.To "bear false witness" is to say something untrue about someone else.Proverbs 6:16;19 NLT There are six things the Lord hates—no, seven things he detests:... a false witness who pours out lies. Satan is called the "accuser of the brethren" so if you're sharing false information—whether intentional or not—you're helping the devil do his dirty work. Social media feeds confirmation bias.Confirmation bias is our tendency to want to hear whatever supports what we already believe.The more you want something to be true, the easier it is to believe it if it's a lie. So before you post or share, ask "Is this true, or do I just WANT it to be true?" Social media gives unequal opinions an equal platform.While people have equal value, opinions do not have equal validity.Some people have something to say, and some people just have to say something. Know the difference. 2. IS IT           ?John 13:35 NLT Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.People shouldn't have to meet you in person to discover that you're nicer than your Facebook account. Social media removes face-to-face empathy."Online disinhibition" is when we type things through a screen we would never say to someone seated across the table from us.  Remember there is an image-bearer on the other side of the screen. You don't have to agree with them, but if you don't treat them well, God may need to defend them against you. Social media often causes us to prioritize politics over people.John 6:15 NLT When Jesus saw that they were ready to force him to be their king, he slipped away into the hills by himself.Jesus isn't your political mascot; He is GOD.Have the opinion, but don't sacrifice a person you're called to love for an opinion you're allowed to have. Social Media makes it easy to get sucked into pointless arguments.Titus 3:9 NLT Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees[a] or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These things are useless and a waste of time.Don't win the argument and lose your influence. The goal for the Christian isn't just to make a point. Our goal is to make a difference. 3. IS IT           ?James 3:13 NKJV Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. Social media is immediate communication.James 1:19 NLT You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.Wisdom often waits. Proverbs 29:20 NLT There is more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks without thinking.The algorithm wants your first reaction; Wisdom wants your best one. Social media makes venting too easy.Proverbs 29:11 NLT Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back.Not every emotion needs an audience. Not everything you feel needs to become content for others to consume.Don't trade tomorrow's credibility for today's emotional release. Social media makes it easy to brag.Galatians 6:4 NLT Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won't need to compare yourself to anyone else. Christians are called to build bridges but bragging creates barriers. Some things belong in a conversation, not a comment section. Some things belong with a friend, not your followers. Some things need to be prayed about instead of posted about. So, what would Jesus post?He'd encourage people, He'd celebrate people, He'd build relationships, and He'd share the good news. EndingPete Hoekstra, U.S. Ambassador to the Netherlands.Here was the problem: Pete's words didn't represent only himself anymore, they reflected on the country that sent him. You're an ambassador, too. 2 Corinthians 5:20 NLT So we are Christ's ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. An ambassador doesn't only ask, "Do I have the right to say this?" An ambassador asks, "Does this accurately represent the one who sent me?"Ask is it true? Because you represent the Truth.Ask is it loving? Because you represent the God who is love.Ask is it wise? Because God is making His appeal to the world through you.Your name may be on the social media account, but His name is on you. Let's represent Him well. Are you representing Jesus accurately online?

2026-09-27 Third Cycle of Discipleshipby: Pastor Chris BergScripture Reference: Mark 10:32-4532 They were now on the way up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them. The disciples were filled with awe, and the people following behind were overwhelmed with fear. Taking the twelve disciples aside, Jesus once more began to describe everything that was about to happen to him. 33 “Listen,” he said, “we're going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die and hand him over to the Romans. 34 They will mock him, spit on him, flog him with a whip, and kill him, but after three days he will rise again.”35 Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came over and spoke to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do us a favor.”36 “What is your request?” he asked.37 They replied, “When you sit on your glorious throne, we want to sit in places of honor next to you, one on your right and the other on your left.”38 But Jesus said to them, “You don't know what you are asking! Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of suffering I am about to drink? Are you able to be baptized with the baptism of suffering I must be baptized with?”39 “Oh yes,” they replied, “we are able!”Then Jesus told them, “You will indeed drink from my bitter cup and be baptized with my baptism of suffering. 40 But I have no right to say who will sit on my right or my left. God has prepared those places for the ones he has chosen.”41 When the ten other disciples heard what James and John had asked, they were indignant. 42 So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. 43 But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. 45 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.”Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!All are welcome. 217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448Church Office: (985) 626-3114Sunday Service: 9:30AMAdult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AMNursery and Children's church available.

In today's message Pastor Joe introduces Crossroad's fourth core value: Send, where he highlights Jesus' desire to send his disciples out into the world to spread the Good News. Matthew 24:14 NLT "And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it"

“Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12 NLT) When you’ve had an encounter with death—a near-death experience of your own or the sudden passing of a loved one—it inevitably leads to a few essential questions: “What is life all about, anyway? Why am I alive, and what am I really living for?” In other words, what gets you out of bed in the morning? What gets your blood pumping? Is it an alarm clock or a calling that gets you up each day? Every one of us needs some motivating passion, some ideal, something that gives our lives purpose and drives us on. Unfortunately, many people don’t know what they’re living for. They’re merely marking time instead of making the most of their lives. Their favorite day of the week is “someday”: “Someday my ship will come in. Someday my prince (or princess) will come. Someday it’s all going to get better. Someday my life will change.” But while they’re simply enduring the present and waiting for something better to happen, there’s something they don’t plan on: death. They don’t expect it to rear its head until they or their loved ones are quite old. They file it under “Worries to Think About in Fifty or Sixty Years.” And for some of them, that may be the case. But eventually death knocks at every door. The Bible says that each of us has an appointment with death: “People are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment” (Hebrews 9:27 NIV). So, as we wrap up this week of talking about facing the future, I want to point out that our appointment with death may come much sooner than we expect. Statisticians tell us that 2 people die every second, 120 die every minute, and 7,000 people die every hour. This means that every day, on average, 174,000 people enter eternity. The New Testament author James wrote, “How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone” (James 4:14 NLT). I say this not to alarm you but to motivate you. The psalmist wrote, “Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom” (Psalm 90:12 NLT). As we grow in wisdom, we recognize that every day is a chance to serve the Lord. To make a difference for His eternal kingdom. To seize the opportunities He sets before us. To stretch and grow beyond our comfort zone. To discover what we’re capable of. To embrace and enjoy every blessing. Here is the bottom line: Live every day as though you may never have another one. Live in such a way that you’re ready to step into God’s presence at any moment. Reflection question: What would it look like for you to live every day as though you may never have another one? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Most importantly, I want to remind you that in the last days scoffers will come, mocking the truth and following their own desires. They will say, ‘What happened to the promise that Jesus is coming again? From before the times of our ancestors, everything has remained the same since the world was first created.’” (2 Peter 3:3–4 NLT) No mini-set of devotions about facing the future would be complete without a discussion of the Lord’s return. Nothing looms larger in the future of believers than Jesus’ coming. It also looms large for many unbelievers, although for different reasons. In the contentious arena of social media, many opponents of Christianity point to Christ’s return, or the lack of one so far, to suggest that the Bible can’t be trusted. They conclude that if He hasn’t come back in over two thousand years, He’s not going to. In doing so, they completely miss the mercy and patience that lie at the heart of His delay. The apostle Peter wrote, “The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent” (2 Peter 3:9 NLT). But you don’t have to deny or even question the truth of Christ’s return to miss the point of it. Many believers acknowledge that Christ will come back someday but refuse to allow His impending return to influence their daily actions and decisions. So, instead of preparing for His return and making sure their lives align with His will, they choose to do things that are wrong. They know what the Bible says but choose to ignore it. They play around with sin. They try to have their cake and eat it, too, by living as they please in the present, reasoning that they can repent in the future. But that’s a dangerous game. Not only are they missing the immediate blessings of obedience and discipleship, but they also have no way of knowing when Christ will return. What we do know is this: The Lord’s coming draws closer every day. Paul wrote, “The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living” (Romans 13:12 NLT). It’s time for us to wake up. One thing that always amazes me when I get up really early in the morning is that it’s pitch-dark outside. Sometimes I have to double-check the clock. I think to myself, “It can’t be 5:30; it’s got to be 1:30. It’s so dark.” But sure enough, every morning the sun slowly begins to rise. What was only darkness a few moments earlier begins to lighten up. And the next thing you know, the sun is out and everything’s lit up. This is how our world is right now. It’s dark. And it’s been dark for a long time. We start to think that it will always be this way. But it won’t. The darkness will not last forever. Christ is going to come back again. Be ready for His return. Reflection question: What impact does the realization that Christ will return have on your daily actions and decisions? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Romans 12:17-21 NLT"Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable.  Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.”  Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.There is some great relationship advice in this passage: Don't pay back evil with evil. Live honorably. Never take revenge. Serving even your enemies in times of need proves character comes first. Good will always overcome evil—in His time, in the end.But one of the best pieces of counsel here is found in verse 18: “Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” God only expects us to do what we can. We are not responsible for anyone else's actions. We do our part whether they do theirs or not. And who does this apply to? Everyone. Saints and sinners. The guilty and the innocent.In your life right now, is peace your agenda or is revenge on the table? Is it time to let God handle something for you so good can conquer evil?Listen to this priceless passage one more time but this time from The Message Bible:Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you've got it in you, get along with everybody. Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do. “I'll do the judging,” says God. “I'll take care of it.”  Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good. (Romans 12:17-21 MSG)Pray with me:“Heavenly Father, teach me to live honorably. Show me how to live at peace with everyone. Help me to stay away from revenge and leave that with You. When I encounter evil or am tempted by evil, help me to choose Your way. May I learn how to surprise others with Your goodness. As above, so below.” - Amen

Are modern Bible translations quietly inserting replacement theology into the text—sometimes without even a footnote? Dr. Michael Brown walks you through Psalm 87 and Galatians 6:16, showing where versions like the CEV, NIV, and NLT add “Zion,” erase “Israel,” or rewrite the verse so the church replaces Israel. You'll see what the Hebrew and Greek actually say, why comparing translations matters, and how to spot interpretive bias that fuels replacement theology. Don't let a mistranslation shape your theology—check the text for yourself. ~~~FRONTL|NE Newsletter: https://thelineoffire.org/newsletterDonate: https://thelineoffire.org/donate-one-timeX: https://twitter.com/DrMichaelLBrownYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LFTVDiscover Messiah: https://www.youtube.com/@DiscoverMessiahInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmichaelbrownFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ASKDrBrownWebsite: https://thelineoffire.org Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6–7 NLT) Worry is an obstruction that keeps us from seeing the bright future on the horizon. Yet it’s an obstacle that we put in our own way, for no good reason. Of all the things we worry about, how many are within our control? If we’re honest with ourselves, the answer is probably very few. Martin Luther had the right idea when he wrote in a letter to his wife, “Pray, and let God worry.” God isn’t going to worry, of course. But we still need to pray, because worry is persistent. It keeps popping up unless we bring it to God. Some people try to elevate worry to a virtue. They say things like, “I worry because I care.” But is worry actually a virtue? I don’t think so. In fact, I think worry can be a sin. I’m not saying that all worry is sin, but I am saying that it can be. And I would readily admit that worry is a sin I’ve committed. I have unnecessarily worried about things. I have fretted and been filled with anxiety. So why is it potentially a sin? Because it’s evidence of a lack of trust in God. When we worry, we’re essentially saying, “God isn’t in control. He isn’t taking care of me in this situation. I’m not trusting in the providence of God.” But if you’re a Christian and believe the Bible, then you know God is in control of all the circumstances that surround you. There are no so-called accidents in the life of a believer. Nothing that touches the life of a believer is outside God’s knowledge, care, or control. This is an important truth to remember because worry doesn’t empty tomorrow of its sorrows; it instead empties today of its strength. The apostle Paul wrote, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6–7 NLT). Turn your worries into prayers. The next time you’re gripped by fear and worry, turn it into a prayer like this one: “Lord, I don’t know what to do, but I trust You. You are in control, and I commit this to You right now.” Look to the Lord and let Him give you His peace. Your future is secure in Him. Don’t let worry convince you otherwise. Jesus asked, “Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?” (Matthew 6:27 NLT). Worry can’t change anything. Prayer can move mountains, transform lives, produce soul-deep comfort, and reveal God’s wisdom. Choose prayer. Reflection question: What worry do you need to turn into prayer? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Stop acting so proud and haughty! Don’t speak with such arrogance! For the Lord is a God who knows what you have done; he will judge your actions.” (1 Samuel 2:3 NLT) Long ago, when prognosticators and science fiction writers envisioned life in the twenty-first century, few anticipated the outsize role that a culture-wide sense of entitlement would play. And by “a sense of entitlement,” I mean the idea that you don’t have to work hard and that everything should be given to you because you’re so wonderful. I was born in the generation known as the Baby Boomers. My generation thought the problem with the world was low self-esteem. As a result, a lot of emphasis was given to, and a lot of money was spent on, the self-esteem movement. That started the snowball effect. The downhill slope has led to our current influencer culture, where self-esteem has curdled into narcissism. Millions of people now believe that even their most trivial thoughts and actions are worthy of being documented on video and shared with the world. Exposure, fame, and social media clout have become currency. People who have those things celebrate their “wealth” with jaw-dropping displays of entitlement. Because their social reach is so enormous, this sense of entitlement has become normalized in younger generations—and among older generations as well. People expect to be rewarded, celebrated, and admired regardless of their performance. This trend doesn’t bode well for the future. God’s Word makes it clear that a sense of entitlement has no place in our relationship with the Lord. First Samuel 2:3 says, “Stop acting so proud and haughty! Don’t speak with such arrogance! For the Lord is a God who knows what you have done; he will judge your actions” (NLT). The apostle Paul wrote, “Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too” (Philippians 2:3–4 NLT). He also wrote, “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). And therein lies the key to “disentitling” ourselves. Our number one goal must be to know God and then to find His plan and purpose for our lives. This is the only foundation strong enough for our future. Fame is fleeting. The public’s attitude is fickle. Entitlement is an illusion. Only God’s plan and purpose will last. They must be our priority. The good news is that God will work His plan and purpose in the life of anyone who asks Him to. All we have to do is humbly approach Him, admit that our efforts aren’t enough, and ask Him to guide us. He offers a 24/7 helpline through prayer and His Word. We have nothing to lose but our uncertainty and entitlement by aligning our goals with God and entrusting our future to Him. Reflection question: How can you avoid a sense of entitlement in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT"Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you."The phrase, “get rid of,” means to leave no trace of what was once there. The idea here is to not just cut the weed off at the ground so it is no longer visible, but to pull it up by the roots as if it had never existed at all. Interesting that we often use the word “root” in connection to bitterness. But as the apostle Paul often did, he told us what to eliminate, but then next, he also told us what to do in its place. He offered us the qualities of God to replace those things that only harm us.Paul told us to get rid of anger and be compassionate. To get rid of rage and be kind. To get rid of bitterness and forgive. These opposite, contrasting qualities cannot co-exist. They can only be exchanged. Let go of the old and embrace the new.Think about these truth as you listen again to today's passage:Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. (Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT)Notice that the reaction to a feeling, like anger, is not a feeling. Paul is not asking us to feel differently - he is asking us to do something. In doing something, in extending grace, we are not condoning any offence, rather we are showing strength, the strength that only a God can supply.Is there any anger that you need to exchange with showing compassion? Any rage that you need to exchange with showing kindness? Any bitterness that you need to exchange with offering forgiveness?Let's pray: “Father, guide me, lead me, help me to get rid of the things that hurt me and displease You. I want to be kind, tenderhearted, forgiving, to the depths that You have forgiven me. As above, so below.” - Amen

“‘I have made no trouble for Israel,’ Elijah replied. ‘You and your family are the troublemakers, for you have refused to obey the commands of the Lord and have worshiped the images of Baal instead.’” (1 Kings 18:18 NLT) In yesterday’s devotion, we talked about the impossibility of knowing what lies ahead and the importance of trusting an unknown future to a known God. But there’s an important exception to the Bible’s warnings about not knowing what the future holds. In fact, in a general sense, some things are quite predictable. The apostle Paul explained it this way: “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life” (Galatians 6:7–8 NKJV). This message of reaping what you sow was at the heart of the prophet Elijah’s warning to the evil King Ahab. Elijah had declared, “As surely as the Lord, the God of Israel, lives—the God I serve—there will be no dew or rain during the next few years until I give the word!” (1 Kings 17:1 NLT). When Elijah encountered Ahab again, the king asked, “So, is it really you, you troublemaker of Israel?” (1 Kings 18:17 NLT). But Elijah answered, “I have made no trouble for Israel . . . You and your family are the troublemakers, for you have refused to obey the commands of the Lord and have worshiped the images of Baal instead” (verse 18 nlt). In other words, Elijah was saying, “You brought this on yourself, King Ahab, because you turned to false gods.” It’s always amazing to me how people will break God’s commands over and over again, resist His loving warnings, and then blame Him when hardship hits, often because of their own actions. They demand to know, “Why did God let this happen to me? Why did God do this?” I’m not suggesting that this is always the case when bad things happen. But often there is cause and effect. When we do wrong things, we reap the consequences. There’s no need to scratch our heads and wonder why. And there’s certainly no need to blame God when we reap the bad things we’ve sown. A better option is to embrace the notion of reaping what we sow by sowing good things. Paul put it this way: “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith” (Galatians 6:9–10 NLT). What kind of spiritual crop will you harvest? Reflection question: What are you sowing now that you will one day reap? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Romans 6:12-14 NLT"Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God's grace."Granting forgiveness, experiencing total freedom, and letting go for good is a mental, emotional, and spiritual experience. And yes, it can even be physical. Holding onto bitterness affects our ability to smile, facial expressions, countenance, and body language.When our hearts are closed, we look closed off. Giving ourselves completely to God, as Paul tells us here, is as much as about what we let go of as what we take up. To block forgiveness from someone is to allow sin to be our master and keep us under the law, not under grace. And when we can't give grace, we can't embrace grace.If there is someone you struggle to let go of and forgive, think about how this makes you feel, even physically, how it affects your being in every manner? Refusing to let go creates more pain as we work harder to hold on.Listen once again to Paul's commands:Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God's grace. (Romans 6:12-14 NLT)Forgiveness and letting go diminishes sin's control, allowing us the freedom to give ourselves completely to God, to glorify Him, for Him to be our Master, not sin. To live under the freedom of God's grace.Pray with me, using Paul's words: “Dear Father, help me to not let sin control the way I live; to not give in to sinful desires, to not let any part of my body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Help me to give myself completely to You and experience new life, to use my whole body as an instrument to do what is right for Your glory. I do not want sin to be my master or live under the requirements of the law. Instead, let me live under the freedom of Your grace. As above, so below.” - Amen

Andy Green is no longer the interim manager after signing a 3-year contract. NLT approves of this move! Jeff Cohen ("Baseball & BBQ") is here to discuss why this is good for the Mets on a "Breaking News" edition of NLT. Join us! #Mets #LGM

Sunday, September 6th 2026 | Pastor Jason Wallace | “The more we grow in love, the less offended we become by the imperfections of others!” - Pastor Jason WallaceAlways be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love. ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭2‬ ‭NLT

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the Lord. ‘They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.’” (Jeremiah 29:11 NLT) In this week’s devotions, we’re going to be talking about the future. We’re not necessarily going to focus on specific events in the future, but rather on how Christians should approach and prepare for the future. Whether you’re hopeful or pessimistic about what lies ahead, you need to be aware that the Bible contains a wealth of wisdom on how to face the future as God intends. Proverbs 27:1 sets the tone: “Don’t brag about tomorrow, since you don’t know what the day will bring” (NLT). Using analytics and artificial intelligence, many experts believe that they can predict future trends, opportunities, and crises. God’s Word, on the other hand, makes it clear that the future is unpredictable. Putting our ultimate faith in human intuition or AI models is foolish. The truth is that no one knows what tomorrow will bring, let alone next week, next month, or next year. We don’t know what problems we’ll encounter or what changes will come our way. Think of the things that have happened in your life and in the world around you in just the past year. How many of them could you have anticipated a year ago? And how many of them just came out of the blue, with no warning whatsoever? When it comes to facing the future, only one strategy makes sense. And that’s to leave it in the hands of the only One who knows what the future holds. The only One who isn’t limited by time and space, who can see eternity past and eternity future as clearly as He sees this present moment. The One who created every fiber of your being. The One who laid out a path for you that will lead to your ultimate fulfillment, joy, and satisfaction. The One who knows every step of the way on that path. The One who said, “For I know the plans I have for you . . . They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11 NLT). You’ll notice that God paints in broad strokes. He doesn’t go into detail about His plans, even though we might wish He did. Many of us would prefer to have the complete map and timeline of our life so that we can set out on our own. But that’s not how God works. He wants us to depend on Him every step of the way. He assures us that His plans are good and that they give us hope for the future. But what shape those plans will take remains a glorious mystery. We may not know what blessings the Lord has in store for us, but if we trust in Him, we know that His grace will be sufficient. We have no reason to be anxious about what lies ahead. I like the words of that wonderful woman of God, Corrie ten Boom, who said, “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” God is in control of our future. He is able to sustain us today, tomorrow, and every day we draw breath in this world. Because God holds the future, we can face it with hope. Reflection question: What would trusting God with your future look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When God speaks but the road ahead looks painful, how do you know whether to stop, wait, or obey anyway?In Ready Anyway, Pastor Talaat McNeely teaches from Acts 21:1-16 NLT about what happens when God's direction seems clear, but the people around you reach a different conclusion. This message is for anyone trying to discern God's voice, make a difficult decision, release control, or keep obeying when the next step feels costly.In this episode, you'll discover:How to separate what God said from your fear, preferences, and assumptionsWhy a warning from God may prepare you for hardship instead of telling you to avoid itHow to receive godly counsel without giving up your responsibility to test what you heardWhy love can become control when fear takes overWhat it means to trust God when you cannot control the outcomePrimary Scripture: Acts 21:1-16 NLTPaul's example shows that readiness is not confidence that everything will turn out the way you want. It is confidence in the God who is leading you, even when obedience includes discomfort, uncertainty, or sacrifice.Purpose City Church | Aurora, ILFollow The Purpose City Church Podcast and visit us at https://www.purposecitychurch.com/

From “In the Beginning” to Amen // Repairers of the Broken Places Haggai 1:3-9 (NLT)“Then the Lord sent this message through the prophet Haggai: Why are you living in luxurious houses while my house lies in ruins? This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: Look at what's happening to you! You have planted much but harvest little. You eat but are not satisfied. You drink but are still thirsty. You put on clothes but cannot keep warm. Your wages disappear as though you were putting them in pockets filled with holes! This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies says: Look at what's happening to you! Now go up into the hills, bring down timber, and rebuild my house. Then I will take pleasure in it and be honored, says the LORD. You hoped for rich harvests, but they were poor. And when you brought your harvest home, I blew it away. Why? Because my house lies in ruins, says the LORD of Heaven's Armies, while all of you are busy building your own fine houses.” Don't Just Look for a Church That You Can Attend. Look For a Vision You Can Engage. Remember What Matters Repair the Broken Places Isaiah 58:6-12 (NIV)“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. “If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk, and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed,
then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday. The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations;
you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.” Engage the Vision and Respond with Action Nehemiah 4:9 (ESV)"We prayed to our God and set a guard as a protection against them day and night."

Thank you for joining us for Christian Faith Center's Sermon of the week. This message is from our Nampa Location. Pastor Jordan kicks off our new message series "Homecoming"Luke 15:11-20 NLT. Life is better with God and turning away costs! But none of those consequences were that the father stopped loving his son! You may have hit the bottom of Life, but you haven't hit the bottom of Love! No matter how far you have fallen, Gods love is bigger still. It is deeper and wider still. You can still Come Home!

Cocktail of Contradictions | Tullian Tchividjian"Fragments of Freedom, Part 04"Romans 7:15, 18-19 NLT

Because You Say So I Will Choose Obedience“Why do you call Me Lord and not do what I say?” Luke 6:46 “One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, the people were crowding around him and listening to the word of God. He saw at the water's edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon's partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don't be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.” So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.” Luke 5:1-11 NIV Because who says so? Doing what Jesus tells us to do doesn't always make sense to us Because You Say So I will pursue love (Agape) as the goal of my life “So I give you now a new commandment: Love each other just as much as I have loved you. For when you demonstrate the same love I have for you by loving one another, everyone will know that you're my true followers.” John 13:34-35 TPT (See also Matthew 22:37-39) Because You Say So I will forgive others as I have been forgiven “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Matthew 6:14-15 (See also Colossians 3:13) Because You Say So I will take courage that You have overcome the world “These things I have spoken to you so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NASB (See also James 1:2) Because You Say So I will strive for unity with my fellow believers “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.” John 17:20-21 NLT

“Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God. You must warn each other every day, while it is still ‘today,’ so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God. For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ.” (Hebrews 3:12–14 NLT) The apostle Paul wrote, “Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11 NLT). As believers, we must take his warning to heart. The reality is that we don’t always stand firm against the devil’s strategies. In fact, there are times when we play into them. We put ourselves in vulnerable positions. We make it easy for the devil to tempt us. Paul’s warning resonates especially powerfully today because we’re living in what I believe to be the last days. And one of the prophetic signs we sometimes forget about is that in the last days, there will be a great apostasy, meaning that people will fall away from the Lord. According to 1 Timothy 4:1, “Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons” (NLT). This means that in these critical days in which we’re living, the devil is walking around like a roaring lion, looking for people that he can drag down (see 1 Peter 5:8). He’s looking for people who are content to run only half the race that’s been set before them. He’s looking for people who have taken their eyes off Christ and become distracted by the things of this world. He’s looking for people who are tired, frustrated, and struggling with doubts. He’s looking for people who are trying to “go it alone” instead of relying on the fellowship and accountability of other believers. The book of Hebrews warns about the perils of spiritually turning away. Hebrews 3:12 tells us, “Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God” (NLT). Notice this verse doesn’t address unbelievers. Rather, it’s a warning specifically for Christians. The passage continues, “You must warn each other every day, while it is still ‘today,’ so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God. For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ” (verses 13–14 NLT). Did you catch that? You will “share in all that belongs to Christ”—if you are faithful to the end. In other words, you need to cross the finish line. Reflection question: How can you be faithful to the end in your walk with Christ? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“We 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. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” (Hebrews 12:2 NLT) When I was in high school, I went out for track and field. I was a fairly decent short-distance runner, but I was horrible at long-distance runs. Maybe this had to do with the fact that I hated to practice. My motivation might have been called into question as well. Some people are motivated by the spirit of competition or team spirit or achieving personal bests. I wanted to impress the pretty girls in the stands. When it comes to the race of life, we need a better motivation than I had. Hebrews 12:2 spells it out: “We 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. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne” (NLT). Ultimately, we run for an audience of one: Jesus Christ. He is watching us. He is praying for us. In fact, according to Hebrews 7:25, “He lives forever to intercede with God on [our] behalf” (NLT). The presence and work of Jesus is what gave Stephen courage when he stood before his accusers who were ready to put him to death. Full of the Holy Spirit, he was given a glimpse of Jesus in Heaven and said, “Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand!” (Acts 7:56). Seeing Jesus gave Stephen the ability to run the race and finish it. Seeing Jesus also gave Simon Peter the ability to walk on water. One night the disciples were making their way across the storm-tossed Sea of Galilee. According to Matthew 14:25–29, “About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, ‘It’s a ghost!’ But Jesus spoke to them at once. ‘Don’t be afraid,’ he said. ‘Take courage. I am here!’ Then Peter called to him, ‘Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.’ ‘Yes, come,’ Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus” (NLT). As long as Peter kept the Lord in sight, he was able to do the seemingly impossible. As believers, we must keep our eyes on Jesus. Circumstances will disappoint and, at times, devastate us. People will let us down and fall short of our expectations. Feelings will come and go. But Jesus will always be there to cheer us on. He has run before us, He is the ultimate winner, and He will show us how to run. But we must keep looking to Him. Reflection question: What would keeping your eyes on Jesus look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Restore our fortunes, LORD, as streams renew the desert. [NLT]

Every one of us has a race God has called us to run—but let's be real: the calling isn't always glamorous, and it definitely isn't always easy! In this episode, Lauren shares what God has been teaching her through a personal running challenge about capacity, perseverance, purpose, and pushing past the limits we place on ourselves.What if you're more capable than you realize? What if the moment you feel like stopping is the very moment your endurance has a chance to grow? And what if your decision to keep running is inspiring your children, family, friends, and people you may not even know are watching?It's time to strip off the fear, shame, doubt, burnout, and every lie trying to convince you to quit. Focus on your next step, keep your eyes on Jesus, and press on toward everything God has placed before you. You've got more in you, girl—so run your race!

“Wash yourselves and be clean! Get your sins out of my sight. Give up your evil ways. Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows. “Come now, let's settle this,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool. If you will only obey me, you will have plenty to eat. But if you turn away and refuse to listen, you will be devoured by the sword of your enemies. I, the Lord, have spoken!”- ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭16‬-‭20‬ ‭NLT‬

Just like cruise control keeps a car moving at the same speed without adjusting to what's ahead, we can put our calling on cruise control and keep moving based only on what God told us at the beginning. But God wants us to continually check in with the Holy Spirit along the way. Take your calling off cruise control, listen to the Holy Spirit, and let Him guide you every step of the journey. __________ 1 Chronicles 4:9-10 NLT and 1 Kings 19:19-21 NLT __________ Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com __________    

“So God set another time for entering his rest, and that time is today. God announced this through David much later in the words already quoted: ‘Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts.’” (Hebrews 4:7 NLT) An attorney was trying to deliver an important paper to a man who was determined to avoid him. The man reasoned that the attorney had some type of subpoena, so he went out of his way to dodge him. Fourteen years passed, and the man finally found himself in the hospital, dying of cancer. Through a strange series of events, the attorney was admitted to the hospital and was assigned to the same room as the dying man. The man turned to the attorney and said, “Well, you never got me. I’ve escaped you all this time, and now it doesn’t matter. You can even serve your subpoena. I don’t care.” The lawyer replied, “Subpoena? I was trying to give you a document that proved you had inherited forty-five million dollars!” Many people go out of their way to avoid Christians and the opportunity to have a relationship with Jesus Christ. All the while, their hearts grow harder, and they risk becoming increasingly calloused to the gospel. Scripture gives sober warnings about hardening our hearts, but from our perspective, we don’t know when someone has reached that point. Maybe you know someone who seems completely closed off to the gospel. We can take heart when we look at the conversion of Saul of Tarsus. It was so radical and unexpected that when it happened, first-century Christians thought he was attempting to infiltrate their ranks and persecute the church even further. They didn’t believe that God could save someone as wicked and hostile toward the church as Saul. They couldn’t wrap their minds around a change of that magnitude. But we know that Saul became Paul the apostle. Hebrews 4:7 says, “So God set another time for entering his rest, and that time is today. God announced this through David much later in the words already quoted: ‘Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts’” (NLT). That’s a warning some people will ignore ninety-nine times out of a hundred. But that one time is all it takes. Circumstances have a way of lowering people’s defenses. Seeing the difference a relationship with Christ makes in people’s lives, in good times and in bad, can speak powerfully to a person. Sometimes the right phrase, spoken at the right time by the right person, can resonate in a life-changing way. If you know someone who seems too far gone and permanently hardened toward the gospel, keep praying. Keep being present. Keep setting an example of the Christian faith at work. Be prepared to answer questions and respond to challenges in a loving, thoughtful way. Remember, even the hardest heart can be softened. You never know—the hard-hearted person you’re trying to reach just might be the next Paul. Reflection question: How can you reach out to someone in your life whose heart is hardened to the gospel message? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Satisfy us each morning with your unfailing love, so we may sing for joy to the end of our lives. [NLT]

Psalm 86:1-7 NLT"Bend down, O Lord, and hear my prayer; answer me, for I need your help. Protect me, for I am devoted to you. Save me, for I serve you and trust you. You are my God. Be merciful to me, O Lord, for I am calling on you constantly. Give me happiness, O Lord, for I give myself to you. O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help. Listen closely to my prayer, O Lord; hear my urgent cry. I will call to you whenever I'm in trouble, and you will answer me."As we learn to go to God with our sin, our guilt, our past, and all our stuff, we can then begin to sense His constant presence, because while He has been right with us all along and never moved, we finally choose to stop running away and attempting to hide. We see that progression in today's passage as David's 'Psalm 51 moment' is now in his rearview mirror.Our brokenness can produce a humble boldness.Our surrender can provide a sense of security.Our submission can protect us from falling again.Do you recognize, can you feel, God's presence with You as You begin to live in a constant state of forgiveness?Like King David, you can call to God whenever You are in trouble and He will answer You.Let's make Psalm 86 our personal prayer."Bend down, O Lord, and hear my prayer; answer me, for I need your help. Protect me, for I am devoted to you. Save me, for I serve you and trust you. You are my God. Be merciful to me, O Lord, for I am calling on you constantly. Give me happiness, O Lord, for I give myself to you. O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help. Listen closely to my prayer, O Lord; hear my urgent cry. I will call to you whenever I'm in trouble, and you will answer me. … As above, so below." - Amen

“Therefore, angels are only servants—spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation.” (Hebrews 1:14 NLT) Movies such as It’s a Wonderful Life, The Bishop’s Wife, and Angels in the Outfield have led many people to wonder whether angels really play a role in the lives of people here on earth. According to Scripture, if those people are Christians, the answer is absolutely yes. Much of the work of angels is done without our knowing, and for good reason. Revelation 22 offers an informative illustration. Regarding the visions of Heaven he’d been given, the apostle John wrote, “And when I heard and saw them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who showed them to me” (verse 8 NLT). It seems that the appearance and work of angels can overwhelm our human senses and confuse us as to who deserves our praise and worship. Occasionally, however, God draws back the cosmic curtain and allows people to see His angelic creation. In Numbers 22:31–33, Balaam’s eyes were opened to the sword-wielding angel of the Lord who stood ready to kill him if he continued his journey. In 2 Kings 6:15–17, the eyes of Elisha’s servant were opened so that he could see the mighty angelic army that was surrounding the Aramean army outside the village of Dothan. That encounter tracks with these words of David: “For the angel of the Lord is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him” (Psalm 34:7 NLT). The author of Hebrews wrote that angels are “spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation” (Hebrews 1:14 NLT). Jesus also made an interesting statement when He was speaking about children: “Beware that you don’t look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father” (Matthew 18:10 NLT). Perhaps children have guardian angels. I believe they need guardian angels. You always must keep your eye on them, especially when they’re young. If you’ve ever wondered how you averted a close call, the answer may be the intervention of an angel. But it’s important to remember that it was an angel doing the work of God. Our heavenly Father is the One who deserves the glory. The angel to whom John mistakenly bowed in Revelation 22 made that quite clear: “But he said, ‘No, don’t worship me. I am a servant of God, just like you and your brothers the prophets, as well as all who obey what is written in this book. Worship only God!’” (verse 9 NLT). But what about the close call that isn’t averted? What about the tragedy that occurs with no intervention? Where’s the angel then? I’ll tell you where—escorting the believer into God’s presence. When tragic things happen and life ends suddenly, it may not seem logical to us. But God is still in control. And the angels did their job—guiding us, protecting us, and finally taking us to glory. Reflection question: When have you or someone you know experienced what seemed like the work of an angel? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Psalm 51:1-4, 7-12 NLT"Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin.  For I recognize my rebellion; it haunts me day and night. Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight. You will be proved right in what you say, and your judgment against me is just. … Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Oh, give me back my joy again; you have broken me - now let me rejoice. Don't keep looking at my sins. Remove the stain of my guilt. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Do not banish me from your presence, and don't take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you."David longs to not feel stained or dirty or guilty or broken or disloyal or isolated any longer. We all know these feelings much too well.Reflect on David's understanding of how absolute the removal of any trace of sin God can bring. Like it never happened. David talks about how his rebellion haunts him day and night.Is there sin in your past, or even currently, that haunts you day and night?Listen again to what David asks of God in this passage from the Message bible:God, give grace! Scrub away my guilt,I know how bad I've been; my sins are staring me down.You've seen it all, seen the full extent of my evil.Soak me in your laundry and I'll come out clean, scrub me and I'll have a snow-white life.Set these once-broken bones to dancing.Don't look too close for blemishes, give me a clean bill of health.God, make a fresh start in me, shape a Genesis week from the chaos of my life.Bring me back from gray exile, put a fresh wind in my sails!It is likely that whatever the sin that haunts you day or night is not as drastic as the affair and murder that David carries. In confessing and asking forgiveness we are talking to the same God that David did in this passage. We know that God's forgiveness is as absolute then as it is now. God's grace never runs out. His mercy never ends. His love never quits. Can you offer the same grace to yourself that God gives? He promises a clean heart, a loyal spirit, joy of the salvation given to us.Pray with me: “O God, thank You for Your mercy, Your unfailing love, Your removal of guilt and Your cleansing of stains. Thank You for Your restoration, but most of all, thank You for Your presence in my life. As above, so below.” - Amen

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of 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.” (Hebrews 12:1 NLT) A professional concert violinist once was asked about the secret to her amazing performances. She replied, “Planned neglect. Anything that would keep me from practicing and playing well must be neglected.” At first, this may seem like a harsh regimen. After all, many of the things being neglected might bring her enjoyment or temporary satisfaction. But those things weren’t her priority. What she prized most of all was being able to maximize her gift so that its impact was as powerful and as memorable as it could be. And there’s a wisdom in her approach that shouldn’t be lost on believers. I believe that many of us could use some planned neglect in our lives because there’s a lot more junk in them than we may realize. If you don’t believe me, then try moving from one house to another. Isn’t it amazing how much junk we collect over time? The same is true in our lives. We take on things we don’t need. Periodically, we need to jettison this excess weight and let it go. When the race of life gets difficult, we like to blame circumstances, other people, or sometimes even God. But we need to remember that if we stumble or fall, it’s our own fault. Second Peter 1:3 says, “By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence” (NLT). Hebrews 12:1 says, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of 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” (NLT). Think of it as a more active approach to planned neglect. Periodically, we need to take stock of our lives as believers and look at the things that we’re doing with our time. We need to ask ourselves, “Is it helping me run, or is it weighing me down? Is it speeding me on my way spiritually, or is it slowing me down? Is it increasing my spiritual appetite, or is it dulling it?” David had the right idea when he prayed, “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23–24 NIV). Are you race-ready? Reflection question: What are some things that might be slowing you down as you run the race God has set before you? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Go with the strength you have and rescue Israel from the Midianites. I am sending you" (Judges 6:14, NLT). In this message, Bishop Dale C. Bronner walks through God's call to Gideon — the youngest in his family, from the weakest clan — to show that your size was never the qualification for what God has called you to do. From Gideon's army being cut from 32,000 to 300, to a teenage David facing Goliath with only a slingshot, to Vincent van Gogh's letter written after five years of failure, this message is a reminder that your willingness to trust God, not your resources or resume, determines your impact. You are big enough. You'll learn: Why God intentionally reduces your resources before He uses you How to tell the difference between people who are truly with you and people who just say they are Why the people closest to you need to understand the "language of your heart" Why pruning is preparation, not punishment How to start — and stay faithful — in a season of small beginnings

To be successful at what God has called you to do, you have to be willing to go all in. Going all in means that you're willing to invest what's necessary in terms of time, resources, and creativity, without holding anything back just. Going all in means fully trusting God, that if He's called you to do this, He's going to help you succeed because you're putting your trust in Him. You're not holding anything back; you're going full force at what God has called you to do. __________ Mark 10:17-23 NLT, Mark 10:24 KJV, Mark 10:28-30 NLT __________ Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com __________    

“And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6 NLT) In this week’s devotions, we’ll focus on the New Testament book of Hebrews. Today’s passage contains some crucial wisdom regarding faith, but first we need a biblical definition of faith. Hebrews 11:1 offers a great starting point for understanding this topic: “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see” (NLT). Faith plays a key role in the Christian walk not just in a lofty spiritual sense, but also in a practical, rubber-meets-the-road way. For example, faith is essential to prayer. To put it more bluntly, sometimes our prayers aren’t answered in the affirmative because we simply don’t believe. Hebrews 11:6 says, “And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him” (NLT). When we approach God thinking, “I don’t really believe this can happen,” then we essentially cancel our own prayer. To not believe what God’s Word says is true is to effectively call God a liar. James tells us, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord” (James 1:5–7). We must pray with faith. And if we lack faith, then we must follow the example of the man who said to Jesus, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24). That prayer works. We don’t need to have super faith, but we do need to have some faith—and we need to apply that faith in prayer. Faithful prayer involves a sense of expectation. That’s not to say that we should have a smug assurance that God will give us everything we ask for when we ask for it. Rather, we should approach God knowing that our heavenly Father will give us His full attention. He is deeply concerned about our lives, our circumstances, and our needs. He promises to respond to our prayers according to His will. And His will is far greater than anything we can conceive of. Ultimately, His answers to our prayers will result in our increased wisdom, preparation, joy, fulfillment, and peace. That’s how we please God with our faith. And that’s how we unlock the full potential of prayer in our lives. Reflection question: How can you unlock the full potential of prayer in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A pivot is a change of direction. You can see this in basketball when a player plants a pivot foot; it allows them to shift in a different direction. In business, a pivot is going from one business model to another or from one product to another. In all of our callings, we will have pivots; we will have changes in direction. When God gives us a change in direction, He's not pivoting in the sense that He made a mistake about what He wanted us to do before. His change in direction is actually nudging us closer to where He wants us right now. __________ Numbers 23:19 NLT, 1 Kings 17:1-9 NLT __________ Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com __________