Podcasts about nlt

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

“And hardworking farmers should be the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor.” (2 Timothy 2:6 NLT) Many times, when people feel burned out or overwhelmed, it’s not because God has given them too much to do. It’s because they haven’t spent time with Him. Psalm 91:1 says, “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty” (NLT). Likewise, the apostle Paul wrote, “And hardworking farmers should be the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor” (2 Timothy 2:6 NLT). That simply means you can’t give out what you don’t possess. If you’re going to operate from a position of spiritual strength, you first have to do the things that build your spiritual strength. And at the top of the list of spiritual strength-builders is living in the shelter of the Most High. What does it mean to live in the shelter of the Most High? The Hebrew word translated live in Psalm 91 speaks of a consistent presence. It parallels the New Testament word remain that Jesus used in John 15:5: “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing” (NLT, emphasis mine). It means to stay in a given place. Essentially, God is saying, “I don’t merely want a relationship with you. I want fellowship. I want you to come close and to remain consistently in My presence.” What an opportunity—an invitation to rest and recharge while we bask in God’s love and mercy! Who could refuse? Yet many believers do, knowingly or unknowingly, because of the challenge involved. Our culture is wired to discourage the kind of rest God offers. Our time and attention are monopolized by the 24/7 news cycle, an addictive and endless parade of social media timewasters, season after season of programs to binge, and countless other diversions. And that’s in our “down” time! Even when our busyness has a purpose, we need to make sure that it’s being fueled properly. Believers sometimes substitute perspiration for inspiration. We substitute work for worship. We get so busy doing Christian things with Christian people in the Christian church that we forget about Christ. Did you know that’s possible? I ask you today, are you living in the shelter of the Most High? There’s a time and place for Christian work. But the best Christian work will always overflow from a life of worship. That work can never take the place of worship. Because it’s in worship, in spending purposeful time in God’s presence, that we become equipped to carry out God’s work. If you want to grow in your Christian faith, and make a difference for God’s kingdom, make sure you’re spending consistent, quality time in God’s presence. That’s the place where life-changing things happen. Reflection question: What would living in the shelter of the Most High look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Bilingual) このメッセージでは太助牧師が『あなたは毎日「目的」を感じて生きている？』について以下の２つのポイントから話します。ディスカッション用の質問はノートの最後に確認できます。In this message Ps Tasuke talks about “Are you Living in “Purpose” Everyday?” in these 2 points:Check the questions for discussion at the end of the note. マタイ 6:9-12 ERV / Matthew 6:9-12 ERVエペソ 2:10 新改訳2017 / Ephesians 2:10 NLTエステル 2:9 JCB / Esther 2:9 NLTエステル 2:16-17 JCB / Esther 2:16-17 NLTイザヤ書 30:18 新改訳2017 / Isaiah 30:18 NLTエステル 4:11-14 JCB / Esther 4:11-14 NLTルカ16:10 JCB / Luke 16:10 NLT今いる場所で恵みと好意がある Grace and Favor Where You Are Now今いる場所に目的がある Purpose Where You Are NowQUESTIONS(質問) : What do you think it means to live with God's purpose?神様の目的を生きるとは、どういうことだと思いますか？How can we see God's favor where we are right now?今いる場所で、どのように神様の好意を見ることができますか？What do you learn from Esther's courage and decision?エステルの勇気と決断から何を学べますか？Is there an area in your life where you need to say, “God, your will be done”?あなたの人生で「神様の思いが行われるように」と言えるようになりたい分野はありますか？What's one small step you can take this week to live out God's purpose? 神様の目的を生きるために、今週どんな一歩を踏み出せますか？Connect with us:Web: mylifehouse.comInstagram: instagram.com/lifehouseglobal/Facebook: facebook.com/lifehouseglobalVideo Messages: ビデオメッセージ: youtube.com/LifehouseTokyoOther Podcasts:Want to listen to our messages in other languages?Lifehouse Messages (English): https://lifehousemessages.captivate.fm/listenLifehouse Hong Kong (Cantonese & English): https://lifehousehongkong.captivate.fm/listen

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

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

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

“As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near.” (2 Timothy 4:6 NLT) When you take a trip, you have to leave at a certain time. If your flight departs at 8 o’clock, you have to account for traffic, parking, getting through security, and finding your gate. You need to allow time for all of them. You have to prepare for your departure if you want to arrive at your destination as planned. Of course, how you approach your departure will depend on how you feel about your destination. I remember taking a trip to North Carolina that I wasn’t looking forward to. The weather there was hot and very humid. And I had a three-hour layover in Chicago. It’s safe to say that I wasn’t eagerly anticipating the trip. The very next week, however, I was scheduled to fly to Hawaii. And I was eagerly anticipating that trip. It all comes down to destination for me. If I’m going to a place I don’t want to go to, I dread the trip. But if I’m going to a place I do want to go, I look forward to the trip. I don’t mind the travel, even if I’m sitting in coach with a person in front of me fully reclined. It’s okay. The destination makes everything else worth the journey. In 2 Timothy 4:6, the apostle Paul was anticipating a different kind of departure. “As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near” (NLT). Paul had lived a remarkably dangerous life. He offered a glimpse of it in 2 Corinthians 11:24–27: Five different times the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea. I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not. I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights. I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm. (NLT) Yet, through it all, there’s no indication in Scripture that Paul ever thought the time of his death was near. Until 2 Timothy 4:6. There’s no trace of sadness or regret in his announcement—only victory. In the next verse, he declared, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful” (NLT). More importantly, Paul was excited about his destination. He wrote in 2 Corinthians 5:8, “Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord” (NLT). Are you excited about your ultimate destination? Will you leave this life with a sense of accomplishment and victory? If you trust in Christ as Savior and Lord, you can approach death with the confidence, assurance, and excitement that Paul had. Reflection question: What is your attitude toward death? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a frustrating loss, the Mets will be in Denver (and so will NLT). We talk about the games with the Dodgers, what Rob Manfred did right, and what Rob Manfred did wrong. We also comment on an ongoing mistake at Mets HQ. Join us!

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

We have the strength to work because we start with a day of rest. Key Scriptures: Genesis 2:1-3 NLT, Exodus 20:8-11 NLT, Matthew 11:28-29 NLT Connect with us & let us know you are listening and how we can pray for you... https://www.pursuitnazarene.org/online-connection-card

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

“Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked.” (1 Timothy 1:19 NLT) Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes, was a bit of a practical joker. One day, he jotted notes to twelve of his friends and sent them off with no name signed to them. On the notes he wrote these words: “Flee at once—all is discovered.” Within twenty-four hours, all twelve of the people who received the notes had left the country. Doyle got a big laugh out of showing what happens when people have guilty consciences. Your conscience may be the most overlooked part of you. If you did a quick online search, you’d find hundreds of articles and tips for keeping your heart healthy. Or improving your memory. Or protecting your skin. Or taking care of other important parts of your body. But what about your conscience? The apostle Paul emphasized its importance when he gave this advice to Timothy for choosing deacons: “They must be committed to the mystery of the faith now revealed and must live with a clear conscience” (1 Timothy 3:9 NLT). Everyone has a conscience. In Romans 2:14–15, Paul said, “Even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right” (NLT). Not everyone appreciates their conscience. Some people treat it like a nagging companion who always starts complaining just when things begin to get fun. They learn to ignore or disable it. And that’s a huge mistake. Paul warned in 1 Timothy 4:2 about people whose “consciences are dead” (NLT). Your conscience is actually one of the most valuable gifts God has given you. You don’t have to guess at what’s right or wrong. You can sense it, deep in your heart, thanks to your God-given conscience. Let’s look at one more warning from Paul to Timothy: “Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked” (1 Timothy 1:19 NLT). Many believers spend a lot of time trying to discover God’s will for their lives. But in most cases, it’s not a one-time reveal. It’s the dozens of daily decisions we make that bring us closer to Him. Every day we’re given choices to do right or wrong. Every time we choose to do right, to obey God—using our conscience—we grow closer to Him. The closer we are to Him, the better we can see the doors He opens and closes. The closer we are to Him, the better we can sense His leading in key situations. The closer we are to Him, the better we can recognize His hand in the events around us. If you want to discover God’s will for your life, stay close to Him and keep your conscience clear. Reflection question: What can you do to keep your conscience performing at a high level? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ALC Recommends: Thank you for giving $25,619 for 45 youth to go to camp this week! “I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.”-‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭11‬ ‭NLT‬‬

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

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

“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!” (Galatians 5:22–23 NLT) Many people have a very pessimistic, cynical outlook on life. Screenwriter John Patrick Shanley wrote this for a character played by actor Nicolas Cage: “We are here to ruin ourselves and break our hearts and love the wrong people and die.” Benjamin Disraeli, the former prime minister of England, came to this conclusion: “Youth is a blunder; manhood a struggle; old age a regret.” Actor George Clooney said, “I don’t believe in happy endings, but I do believe in happy travels, because ultimately, you die at a very young age, or you live long enough to watch your friends die. It is a mean thing, life.” I’m here to tell you that there’s more to our existence in this world than this. Life need not be a series of inevitable bad choices. It need not be a progression of blunder, struggle, and regret. And it doesn’t need to be a mean thing. Jesus said, “My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life” (John 10:10 NLT). Often, when we think about the life that Jesus offers, we think of the next one—how His death on the cross and resurrection makes eternal life possible for those who believe in Him. But as He makes clear in John 10, He transforms our lives in this world as well. Jesus frees us from our slavery to sin and gives us a taste of true freedom. He allows us to experience life as God intends. He makes it possible for us to find real purpose and experience genuine fulfillment in this life. The apostle Paul wrote, “And when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago” (Ephesians 1:13 NLT). The Holy Spirit guides us down the paths God would have us go. If we follow His lead, our lives will be transformed. In Galatians 5:22–23, Paul shows us what that transformation involves: “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (NLT). If you were to ask one hundred people what they need most in their lives right now, how many of them would mention one or more of the items on this list? Keep in mind, too, that these fruits grow in all conditions of life. Even without romance, you can grow in love. Even in trying times, you can find joy. One of the devil’s most effective strategies is to convince people that the life Jesus offers is somehow restrictive, boring, or unfulfilling. He tries to distract us with empty, shallow, selfish, and ultimately destructive pursuits. He warps our perspective so that we can’t tell what’s truly meaningful and satisfying in life. Don’t fall for his lies. Follow Christ. Discover how rich and satisfying your life can be. Reflection question: How would you summarize your philosophy of life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As they watched, he was taken up and disappeared in a cloud. They stood there, staring into the empty sky. Suddenly two men appeared in white robes! They said, “You Galileans, why do you just stand here looking up at an empty sky? This very Jesus who was taken up from among you to heaven will come as certainly and mysteriously as he left.” So they left the mountain called Olives and returned to Jerusalem. It was a little over half a mile. They went to the upper room they had been using as a meeting place: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James, son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, Judas, son of James. They agreed they were in this for good, completely together in prayer, the women included. Also Jesus' mother, Mary, and his brothers. Acts 1:9-14 MSGFaithfulness to God's mission should mark the life of a person who has given their heart to Him. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 ESV1) Connected Together we are a formidable force and a strong witness for God and the beauty of His family on Mission.All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Supper), and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord's Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. Acts 2:42-47 NLT2) AccountableReal conversations before a decision is made is the kind of accountability God calls us to. Take good counsel and accept correction, that's the way to live wisely and well. We humans keep brainstorming options and plans, but GOD's purpose prevails. Proverbs 19:20-21 MSGLoyalty is Godly, but surrounding yourself with people who will empowering unwise or broken decision making can devastating to you and God's mission.  Plans succeed through good counsel; don't go to war without wise advice. Proverbs 20:18 NLTIf you have no real accountability in your life, or you only have a Nathan, then you're likely to end up with a Bathsheba. But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. James 3:17 NLT3) Focused Noah did everything as the LORD commanded him. Genesis 7:5 NLTIf your priority list for living comes from any source besides God's word and will, your gonna miss on mission.4) HopefulBut those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 NLTMy hope is based on my confidence in God's leading and faithfulness. 5) Fruitful Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. John 15:2 ESVThe life of the faithful will always bear fruit, even in times of drought and difficulty!

Sun. Sand. Sea. And Soul Work: From Empty to Overflowing Luke 5:1–11 (NLT) 1-Jesus Shows Up in the Place of Scarcity 2-A Scarcity Mindset Sounds Reasonable… But it Isn't Biblical A Scarcity Mindset is the internal belief that “there's not enough.” 3-Abundance Begins With: “But If You Say So…” 4-Abundance Comes When You Obey — Not When You Understand With Jesus, abundance is the NORM — not the exception. 5-God's Abundance Always Leads to Humility, Not Entitlement After everything HE COULD DO…he had nothing…but in moment of what GOD COULD DO…he had everything. 6-The Greatest Catch Wasn't the Fish — It Was Peter Practical Takeaways 1. Identify your scarcity statements. 2. Say: “But if You say so…” 3. Celebrate even the small signs of overflow.

Acts 9:1–6 NLT1 Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath and was eager to kill the Lord's followers. So he went to the high priest.2 He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking for their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them—both men and women—back to Jerusalem in chains.3 As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him.4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?”5 “Who are you, lord?” Saul asked. And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting!6 Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” KEY #1 - NEW LIGHT. NEW LORD.Acts 9:3-4 NLT“As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. He fell to the ground…”Acts 9:4b-5 NLT“He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?' ‘Who are you, lord?' Saul asked. And the voice replied, ‘I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting!'” Key #2 - New Faith. New Fire.Acts 9:18-20 NLT“Instantly something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized. Afterward he ate some food and regained his strength. Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, ‘He is indeed the Son of God!'”Matthew 5:14-16 NLT“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden... let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Key #3 - New Name. New Nature.Acts 9:21 NLT“All who heard him were amazed. ‘Isn't this the same man who caused such devastation among Jesus' followers in Jerusalem?' they asked. ‘And didn't he come here to arrest them and take them in chains to the leading priests?'”Ephesians 4:22–24 NLT“Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life… Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.”Isaiah 62:2 NLT“You will also be given a new name by the Lord's own mouth.” KEY #4 - NEW MIND. NEW MISSION.Romans 12:2 NLT“Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.”Acts 9:15 NLT“But the Lord said, ‘Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel.'”

Discover the barriers that keep you from living an authentic Christian Life. Notes: 1. What does it mean to live authentically as a Christian? 2. Living in truth, grace, and obedience to the Word and letting Christ transform every area of your life. o. Hebrews 12:1 (ESV) 3. Distractions and Busyness. 4. Loss of passion, fatigue in the faith, going through the motions. 5. Lack of community, Lack of Discipleship and Accountability. 6. Lack of Spiritual Intimacy with the Holy Spirit. 7. Cultural Conformity Over Biblical Conviction. o. Galatians 1:10 (ESV) 8. Category Faith. o. James 1:22 (NLT) o. 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV) 9. Unaddressed Sin and Lack of Repentance. o. Psalm 66:18 (NLT) o. 1 John 1:8-9 (NKJV) o. Titus 2:11-12 (TPT) o. Galatians 5:16-17 (NLT) 10. You can't live the authentic Christian life in your own strength. Need Prayer? Send your prayer requests to: journeychurcheva.com/prayer To give to Journey: journeychurcheva.com/give

“No one hates his own body but feeds and cares for it, just as Christ cares for the church.” (Ephesians 5:29 NLT) In yesterday’s devotion, we looked at the problems that arise when you prioritize yourself in marriage. Today we’re going to expand the picture and look at the problems that arise when you prioritize yourself as a believer. So often today we hear about the importance of self-image, self-love, self-worth, and self-esteem. We even hear it proclaimed from our pulpits: “Doesn’t Jesus say in Mark 12:31, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’? First, you must love yourself before you can love your neighbor.” Wrong. Jesus was not teaching you to first love yourself and then love your neighbor. Rather, He was teaching that you already love yourself, so now love your neighbor. Look again at the apostle Paul’s words in Ephesians 5:29: “No one hates his own body but feeds and cares for it, just as Christ cares for the church” (NLT). We already have self-love. Now we need to love others in the same way. You’ll hear people say things like, “I’m trying to find myself,” to explain their inward gaze. Jesus said, “Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it” (Matthew 10:39 NIV). In other words, if you want to find out what your life was really intended for, deny yourself. You’ve heard the expression, “Finders, keepers; losers, weepers.” We could take what Jesus is saying and call it “losers, keepers.” The people who lose their lives, in reality, keep them. Think of it in computer terms. Self-regard, self-image, self-love, self-worth, and self-esteem take up enormous storage space in our lives. They leave little capacity to operate efficiently in other important areas, especially when it comes to serving or having empathy for others. Isaiah 1:17 says, “Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows” (NLT). But how can you do those things if your focus is on yourself? You’ll find no wavering in Paul’s words in Philippians 3:7–9: “I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with him” (NLT). He knew for certain that he had made the right decision in losing his life for Christ’s sake. People who “lose” their lives as Jesus instructed discover an amazing truth. God loves us far more than we can ever love ourselves. He knows far more than we do about what will bring us lasting fulfillment and joy. So when we sacrifice our self-interest for His sake, we gain far more than we lose. Reflection Question: What’s been your experience in losing and finding your life in your walk with Christ? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(Bilingual) このメッセージではモンティー牧師が「みんなで一緒に手をあげよう賛美と祈りの中での強さ」について以下の３つのポイントから話します。ディスカッション用の質問はノートの最後に確認できます。In this message Ps Monty talks about "Everybody's Hands Go Up - Strong in Prayer and Praise" in these 3 points:Check the questions for discussion at the end of the note.Matthew 6:9-13 NIV / マタイ6:9-13 JCBMatthew 6:9 NLT / マタイ6:9 JCBExodus 17:11-13 NLT / 出エジプト記17:11−13 JCB1 Corinthians 15:57 NLT / 1コリント15:57 JCBProverbs 18:24 NLT / 箴言18:24 JCBJohn 15:15-17 NLT / ヨハネ15:15−17 JCB　1.We Need to Lift Our Hands Up 手を持ち上げる必要がある2.We Need Others to Help us Lift Our Hands 手をあげ続ける為に友に助けてもらう必要がある3.We Need to Help Others to Lift Their Hands 他の人が手をあげ続けられるように助けるQUESTIONS(質問) : ・What happens when we pray and praise together?一緒に祈り、賛美する時に何が起こると思いますか？・In the story of Moses, how did his friends help him keep his hands lifted?モーセの話で、彼の友人たちはどのように手を上げ続けるのを助けてくれましたか？・Why is it important to have friends who help us stay strong in faith?信仰に強く立つのを助けてくれる友達はなぜ重要だと思いますか？・How can you help someone this week to “keep their hands lifted”?今週、誰かが「手を上げ続けられるように」どう助けることができますか？ 　Connect with us:Web: mylifehouse.comInstagram: instagram.com/lifehouseglobal/Facebook: facebook.com/lifehouseglobalVideo Messages: ビデオメッセージ: youtube.com/LifehouseTokyoOther Podcasts:Want to listen to our messages in other languages?Lifehouse Messages (English): https://lifehousemessages.captivate.fm/listenLifehouse Hong Kong (Cantonese & English): https://lifehousehongkong.captivate.fm/listen

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

As I often say, I believe the rapture is the next major prophetic event on the calendar of God. Though many attack the doctrine of the rapture, and some even believe that Christians will go through the tribulation period, I believe the weight of the scripture strongly teaches otherwise.In this study I will answer these 3 questions:1 - What will happen to believers after the rapture?2 - What will happen to unbelievers after the rapture?3 - What 4 major prophetic events will happen after the rapture?------------------Key Scriptures for today's teaching: Matthew 24:40-44Other Scriptures in this study: 1 Corinthians 15:48-53; Romans 14:10-12; Revelation 19:7-9; Revelation 22:20Unless otherwise noted, most Scripture will be from the NLT, the New Living TranslationIf you prayed with Tiff, click here https://lostlamb.org/ and let him know! Be sure to watch the curated playlist “New Beginnings” - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsX8E19Azl58_FjxELPxjnsL8CAtmama4&si=Pj84Hm2dGX57OH4Z Thank you for watching, and subscribe for new content each week.Connect with Tiff Shuttlesworth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LostLambAssociation/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TIFFSHUTTLESWORTH/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/tiffshuttlesworLearn more about my ministry: https://lostlamb.org/ Learn more about my ministry in Canada: https://www.lostlamb.ca

“So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.” (Ephesians 5:33 NLT) Selfishness is the secret to an unhappy marriage. Too often two people enter into marriage saying, “I want my way.” The husband says, “You do what I say.” And the wife says, “I want it my way.” Because of selfishness, couples riddle their marriage with friction. It all comes down to self. Genesis 2:24 says, “A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one” (NLT). But parents aren’t the only things marriage partners must leave behind. There’s also the priority of self, the tendency to place your needs and wants above everything else. If two people are “looking out for number one,” they’re going to have a hard time being “united into one.” Today, there are marriages dissolving because spouses are trying to “find themselves.” Listen, husbands and wives! If you want to find yourself, you need to lose yourself. Remember what Jesus said, “Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it” (Matthew 10:39 NIV). If you want to find yourself and have a biblical marriage, learn the secret. Stop thinking about yourself and approach your marriage saying, “I want to love, please, and help my mate. I want to care about my spouse more than I care about myself.” This is biblical. Before Paul ever says in Ephesians 5:22, “Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord” (NIV), and before he ever says in verse 25, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (NIV), he says in verse 21, “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (NIV). That word submit means “to place or arrange under.” The idea is a voluntary submission. Paul is saying to voluntarily place your needs under the needs of your spouse. Operate with the mindset that your spouse comes first. This principle of selfless service is so important that God makes it the model for all our interactions. Paul wrote in Philippians 2:3–4, “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” (NLT). Following these guidelines in our daily encounters is a powerful testimony of our Christian faith. Following them in our marriage is a powerful expression of love and commitment. If you prioritize the needs of your spouse and work hard to meet those needs, you’ll find that something amazing happens. You’ll find that your own needs get met in time, because you’ll be in God’s order, and your spouse will be, too. And God will bless your union in ways you can’t imagine. Reflection Question: What does submitting to one another look like in your marriage—or in a marriage that you consider to be healthy? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.” (Philippians 4:11–12 NLT) Paul urged the believers in Philippi to embrace a spirit of contentment. And we should point out that Paul wasn’t a do-as-I-say-and-not-as-I-do type of guy. He talked the talk and walked the walk when it came to being content. Paul had more opportunities to be discontent than most people ever will. “I have worked harder, been put in prison more often, been whipped times without number, and faced death again and again. Five different times the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea. I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not. I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights. I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm” (2 Corinthians 11:23–27 NLT). Someone who learned to be content under those circumstances deserves to be heard. Paul’s words in Philippians 4 align with Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:25–27. “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?” (NLT). It’s a matter of focus. If your eyes are on the things of this world, you won’t be content. There’s always a new toy, a nicer car, and a bigger house to aim for. It’s only after you acquire those things that you discover the stinging truth of Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes 2:11: “But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless—like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere” (NLT). If, on the other hand, your eyes are on God and His will for your life, contentment is always within reach. The apostle James wrote, “Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow” (James 1:17 NLT). To be content is to recognize the goodness and generosity of God that put you where you are. To be content is to continuously take an inventory of the amazing things He’s done for you and given you. To be content is to remember where all good and perfect gifts come from. Reflection Question: What obstacles might keep you from being truly content? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"I go east, but he is not there. I go west, but I cannot find him. [9] I do not see him in the north, for he is hidden. I look to the south, but he is concealed. [10] "But he knows where I am going. And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold"Job 23:8-10 NLT

Pastor Joe Hite Jesus Forgives And Heals A Paralyzed Man Mark 2:1-12 NLT 1 When Jesus returned to Capernaum several days later, the news spread quickly that he was back home.  2 Soon the house where he was staying was so packed with visitors that there was no more room, even outside the door. While […]

“No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” (Philippians 3:13–14 NLT) If you want to run the race of life successfully, then don’t look back. If you’ve ever run a race and looked over your shoulder to see what your competitor was doing, then you know that looking back can break your stride and ultimately cause you to lose. Paul applies this principle to the Christian life in Philippians 3:13–14: “Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race” (NLT). His point is that if you’re going to be an effective disciple of Jesus, you must forget the things that are behind you. In this context, the word forget doesn’t mean a failure to remember as much as it means no longer being influenced or affected by the past. In other words, leave the past in the past. Forget the things that already have happened. You may not be able to erase them from your memory, but you don’t need to let them influence you. Sometimes we dredge up things that God has forgiven and forgotten. The Lord says, “I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sins” (Jeremiah 31:34 NLT). Yet many times we bring up our past sins, driven by a sense of guilt or shame. Those backward glances reveal an immaturity in our faith, a misunderstanding of God’s nature. When we lose our forward focus in that way, it’s like we doubt God’s willingness to forgive certain sins. We forget that He has a big eraser. Why should we choose to remember what He has chosen to forget? If God has forgiven my sins and forgotten them, then I need to leave them behind, learn from my mistakes, not do the same thing again, and move forward. And it’s not just our past sins that we need to leave behind. We also need to forget our past victories. Certainly, we should thank God for them and learn from them. But we also must remember that we’re running a marathon. Replaying over and over again the jump we got at the starting line takes our focus off the course ahead. It makes us lose stride. The temptation to celebrate early or to rest on our laurels is strong. That’s the work of our enemy. His aim is to slow us down—or, better yet, to stop us in our tracks. The best way to counter his moves is to press on toward the goal. To keep our eyes focused on what God is doing and where He’s leading us. God will greet you at the finish line with the sweetest words you’ll ever hear: “Well done, my good and faithful servant” (see Matthew 25:23 NLT). Until that time, don’t slow your pace or break your stride. The race isn’t over. Reflection Question: What does pressing on to reach the end of the race look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just as deceptive weeds can creep into a healthy garden, pride often sneaks into our hearts, growing unnoticed among our accomplishments and even our service to God. Annie Yorty uses a vivid gardening metaphor to help us recognize how pride takes root and how we can humbly invite God to weed it out. Through reflection, Scripture, and prayer, we’re reminded to give glory to the true source of all our gifts: God alone. Themes Explored: The subtle danger of pride Recognizing the difference between self-glory and God-glory Daily humility as spiritual “weed control” Confession and dependence on God for heart inspection Living for God’s glory over our own Scripture Reference Jeremiah 9:23 (NLT) “This is what the Lord says: ‘Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches.’”

“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) As the pop star Taylor Swift noted, “Haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate.” You’ve probably encountered more than a few haters—that is, people filled with bitterness. We all have. The thing about bitter people is that they’re never content to keep their bitterness to themselves. They want to spread it around. The only exercise they get is jumping to conclusions and running others down. When that bitterness comes from believers, it brings “sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit” (Ephesians 4:30 NLT). And that’s something we never want to do. That’s why the apostle Paul is quick to follow that verse with these words: “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” (verses 31–32 NLT). You’ll notice that he uses the word all twice in that short passage. He leaves no room for exception. Whatever your cause is, whether it’s doctrinal, theological, political, or personal, if it makes you a mean, argumentative, malicious person, you’ve missed the point. You’re prioritizing the wrong thing. We’re seeing churches splinter when they should be uniting because people have decided that if you’re not with us, you’re against us. People ask me, “Greg, where do you stand on these issues?” But if that’s your concern, you’re again missing the point. The issue is not where you stand on the issues. After all, people are entitled to their own opinions. The real issue can be found in Jesus’ words in John 13:34–35: “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples” (NLT). That’s an incredibly high bar. Jesus didn’t love only those who agreed with Him on certain issues. He gave His life to save even the people who rejected, mocked, tortured, and crucified Him. And that’s the kind of love He calls us to show. There’s the takeaway. Do whatever you do in love—not tearing others down, not weaponizing what you believe to destroy others. Our primary mission is sharing the gospel. That’s where our energies should be primarily channeled in our culture today. Bitterness is often a symptom of a spiritual problem. When I see a person constantly lashing out, whatever their cause is, my first thought is that they need to get reconnected to the Lord. They need to get their priorities in order. They need to return to their first love. Paul wrote, “Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NLT). Bitterness and resentment are part of our old life. Until we rid ourselves of them, we can’t experience all that God has in store for us in our new life. Reflection Question: How can you promote unity when you encounter fellow believers who are struggling with bitterness? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Catalyst Church 5/25/25 - ”Burn It Down” Going Back to Sunday School So Elijah went and found Elisha son of Shaphat plowing a field. There were twelve teams of oxen in the field, and Elisha was plowing with the twelfth team. Elijah went over to him and threw his cloak across his shoulders and then walked away. 20 Elisha left the oxen standing there, ran after Elijah, and said to him, “First let me go and kiss my father and mother good-bye, and then I will go with you!” Elijah replied, “Go on back, but think about what I have done to you.”So Elisha returned to his oxen and slaughtered them. He used the wood from the plow to build a fire to roast their flesh. He passed around the meat to the townspeople, and they all ate. Then he went with Elijah as his assistant. 1 Kings‬ ‭19‬:‭19‬-‭21‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins.” (Ephesians 2:1 NLT) Sin is a difficult concept for many unbelievers to grasp. To be more specific, it’s a difficult concept for many unbelievers to accept. They prefer to think of themselves as decent human beings with a good heart. They know they’re far from perfect, of course, but who isn’t? Compared to certain people, they’re practically angels. Or so the justification goes. The Bible has a different take. In Romans 3:23, the apostle Paul writes, “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard” (NLT). In Ephesians 2:1 he writes, “Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins” (NLT). And in 1 John 1:8, 10, the apostle John writes, “If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth. . . . If we claim we have not sinned, we are calling God a liar and showing that his word has no place in our hearts” (NLT). Two points are made clear in these passages. The first is that sin is a universal condition. No one is unstained by it. The second is that sin means to miss the mark, to fall short of God’s perfect standard. Jesus says in Matthew 5:48, “But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect” (NLT). Imagine that you and I are competing in an archery contest. We each have ten arrows. You fire all ten of your arrows into the target, but never hit the bullseye. You get close to it, but not close enough to count. I fire all ten of my arrows, and not one of them comes close to the target. I hit a tree, a cow, a bystander, and a passing car, among other things. Maybe I did worse than you, but if the standard is perfection, the result is the same for both of us. We missed the mark. In terms of sin, we’re both guilty. Because God is holy and just, He demands the ultimate punishment for sin—that is, death. But because He loves us, He sent His Son to take that punishment in our place. Jesus did what we couldn’t do. He lived a sinless life. He satisfied God’s perfect standard. So He became the perfect sacrifice for us. God punished Him for our sins so that we might have eternal life. Acknowledging our sin is the first step in receiving God’s amazing gift. We did nothing to deserve God’s mercy and salvation, but if we accept Christ as Savior and Lord, we receive His righteousness. So when God looks at us, He no longer sees the sin that separates us from Him. He sees the righteousness of His Son. Jesus destroyed the power of sin over us. Paul wrote, “We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin” (Romans 6:6 NLT). We now have the power over our desires and impulses. And we can celebrate the life-changing truth of verse 11: “So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus” (NLT). Reflection Question: What does it mean to you that you are no longer controlled by sin?Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bible Reading: Matthew 6:25-30"Mom, I'm home!" Alyssa called as she came in after school."Hi, honey!" said Mom. "How was your day? Did you learn anything interesting?""We sure did!" said Alyssa. "Mr. Eddleman, our science teacher, poured some really hot water into two glasses. One glass had a spoon in it, and the other one didn't. The one without the spoon cracked when the hot water was poured in, but the other glass was fine. Mr. Eddleman said the metal spoon helped absorb some of the heat and kept the glass from breaking.""Well, I hope he had the glass in the sink when it broke!" said Mom.Alyssa laughed. "He did." Then the smile faded from her face. "Everly wasn't in school today--her family is having all kinds of problems. Her brother was in a car accident last night and had to be rushed to the hospital.""Oh no, that's terrible!" said Mom."Yeah," said Alyssa. "And her dad still hasn't found a job, and her grandma is really sick--she might be dying. I don't see how they can deal with it all.""Well, they know Jesus," said Mom. "And that makes a big difference."Alyssa shrugged. "I feel like I would crack, like that glass in science class today.""That science experiment is a pretty good example of how knowing Jesus helps people," said Mom."It is?" asked Alyssa in surprise.Mom nodded. "Just like the hot water was poured into the glasses, we all have problems come into our lives. Sometimes it can be so overwhelming that we feel like we might crack under the pressure. But Jesus is like that spoon--He helps absorb the heat of our trials. His constant love and care keep our spirits from breaking. I really don't know how anyone can get through tough times without Him." She smiled at Alyssa. "Let's ask God to comfort and encourage Everly and her family and help them trust Him to bring them through it all."Alyssa nodded. "Okay," she said. "But can't we do something else too? Like take them a meal or something?""We sure can," said Mom. "Let's start fixing one right now." –Linda E. KnightHow About You?Are you surrounded by problems and difficulties--or do you know someone else who is? Sickness, a parent losing a job, problems at school, death of a loved one--all these and many other things can make you feel like you simply can't stand it anymore. When you feel like you're going to crack, remember that Jesus is with you. He cares and promises to give you the strength you need.Today's Key Verse:Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT) (1 Peter 5:7 )Today's Key Thought:Give anxieties to God

John 15: I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. (NIV) John 15:8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. (NIV) 1. Bear Fruit by How You Live John 15:8-10 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. 9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love (NIV) Psalm 1:1–2 Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; 2 but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. (ESV) Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. (NKJV) Galatians 5:19-21 When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, 21 envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God. (NLT) Psalm 1:3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. (ESV) 
 2. Bear Fruit by How You Love John 15:10-12 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. (NIV) Proverbs 11:25 A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. (NIV)
 3. Bear Fruit by How You Last John 15:16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. (NIV) Colossians 3:23-24 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (NIV)

The key to a peace-filled life is to intentionally focus your mind on God and to trust Him.John 14:27 (NLT)Isaiah 26: 3 (NLT)

Nehemiah 1:11b (“I was cupbearer to the king.”),Put it into his heart to be kind to me. In those days I was the king's cup-bearer. Nehemiah 5:14-19 NLT14 For the entire twelve years that I was governor of Judah—from the twentieth year to the thirty-second year of the reign of King Artaxerxes—neither I nor my officials drew on our official food allowance. 15 The former governors, in contrast, had laid heavy burdens on the people, demanding a daily ration of food and wine, besides forty pieces of silver. Even their assistants took advantage of the people. But because I feared God, I did not act that way. 16 I also devoted myself to working on the wall and refused to acquire any land. And I required all my servants to spend time working on the wall. 17 I asked for nothing, even though I regularly fed 150 Jewish officials at my table, besides all the visitors from other lands! 18 The provisions I paid for each day included one ox, six choice sheep or goats, and a large number of poultry. And every ten days we needed a large supply of all kinds of wine. Yet I refused to claim the governor's food allowance because the people already carried a heavy burden. 19 Remember, O my God, all that I have done for these people, and bless me for it.

“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) For many people, prayer is a last resort. You might hear them say, “Well, we’ve tried everything else we can think of. Now the only thing left to do is pray.” What? Prayer is the first thing you should do. Look again at the apostle Paul’s words in Philippians 4:6: “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done” (NLT). Those first two statements can’t be separated. The only way you can not worry about anything is if you pray about everything. And if you don’t pray about everything, you’re going to worry about anything. Jesus prayed—a lot. And in Matthew 6, He taught His disciples to pray. He emphasized the importance of praying privately, as opposed to praying publicly for show. Prayer isn’t a performance; it’s an intimate conversation with our Father—a chance to share what’s on our heart and discover what’s on His. And there are no limits to the things we can pray about. Most people pray reactively. When something happens that’s beyond their control, they turn it over to God. They send out a prayer distress signal, asking Him to intervene as quickly and powerfully as possible. There’s nothing wrong with that. God always hears our prayers. And no situation is too big—or too small, for that matter—for Him. But don’t underestimate the power of proactive prayer. Jesus said, “When you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private” and “Don’t babble on and on” (Matthew 6:6–7 NLT). In other words, put some thought, effort, and structure into your prayer time. When you carve time out of every day to speak to God, your relationship with Him deepens. You get to know and understand Him better. You get a sense of His power and presence in your life. You learn to trust Him. So when emergency situations arise, you feel less panicked and more confident in His ability to bring about ultimate good from them. God answers our prayers, but not always with a yes. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus asked that the cup of suffering be taken away from Him, that He be spared the agony of the cross (see Matthew 26:39). God said no. But when He says no, it’s because He has something better in store. Something that better aligns with His will. Something that will provide a better result. We may not always understand His answers, but we can trust that they are for the best. Is there something troubling you right now? Commit it to the Lord in prayer. Stop trying to carry the burden yourself. Pour your heart out to God and trust Him to guide you through it. Give prayer a chance. Reflection Question: What do you need to turn over to the Lord in prayer right now?Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the recent death of Pope Francis and the selection of next pope, social media has lit up with multiple videos and podcasts discussing, the “prophecy of the popes.”Some of you are perhaps hearing about this mysterious prophecy for the first time, while many others have heard about it over the years, but are not certain as to what it is. Should Christians give consideration to this age old prophecy, and should it be taken seriously?In today's study, I would like to answer 3 questions that have been asked about the “prophecy of the popes.”1 - What is the "Prophecy of the Popes"?2 - How Accurate Are the "Prophecy of the Popes"?3 - How Should Christians Respond to Extra-biblical Prophecies?Then we will learn 3 Biblical criteria for judging prophecy:1 - Prophecy Must Align with Scripture2 - Prophecy Should Be Judged by Others3 - Prophecy Must Be Fulfilled------------------Key Scriptures for today's teaching: 1 John 4:1-6Other Scriptures in this study: I Thessalonians 5:19-22; Deuteronomy 13:1-4; 1 Corinthians 14:29; Jeremiah 23:30-32Unless otherwise noted, most Scripture will be from the NLT, the New Living TranslationIf you prayed with Tiff, click here https://lostlamb.org/ and let him know! Be sure to watch the curated playlist “New Beginnings” - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsX8E19Azl58_FjxELPxjnsL8CAtmama4&si=Pj84Hm2dGX57OH4Z Thank you for watching, and subscribe for new content each week.Connect with Tiff Shuttlesworth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LostLambAssociation/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TIFFSHUTTLESWORTH/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/tiffshuttlesworLearn more about my ministry: https://lostlamb.org/ Learn more about my ministry in Canada: https://www.lostlamb.ca

“God’s purpose was that we Jews who were the first to trust in Christ would bring praise and glory to God. And now you Gentiles have also heard the truth, the Good News that God saves you. And when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago. The Spirit is God’s guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify him.” (Ephesians 1:12–14 NLT) When you accept Jesus as your Savior and Lord, the Holy Spirit seals you. Think of it in terms of buying a car. Imagine that you find the car you want on a dealer’s lot. You say to the dealer, “I plan to buy that car. I’ll be back in a few days to pick it up.” No dealer in his right mind is going to say, “It’s yours! We’ll put a sign with your name on it on the windshield so that no one else tries to buy it. And when you’re good and ready, you can come back and get it.” Instead, the dealer will insist that you put a deposit down on the car to reserve it. The deposit is a show of good faith that you’re serious about the purchase. In a spiritual sense, the Holy Spirit is God’s deposit, His show of good faith that He’s serious about His commitment to you. The final delivery will occur when you enter Heaven for eternity. Until that time, the Holy Spirit lives within you, courtesy of God, as a reminder of the value God places on you. In Ephesians 1:13–14, the apostle Paul says, “When you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago. The Spirit is God’s guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people” (NLT). You can trust God’s promise because His Spirit is inside you. Paul also says, “For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children” (Romans 8:16 NLT). This is essential work. Every day we’re bombarded by temptation. We’re given opportunities to pursue our own agenda instead of pursuing God’s will. And when we give in, our enemy is quick to prosecute us. To make us feel unworthy of God’s love and mercy. He wants to shake our confidence in our Christian faith. He wants to sow seeds of doubt that neutralize us and make us less of a threat to him. The Holy Spirit reassures us that we are children of God. He reminds us of the sacrifice God made to save us. And He offers Himself as evidence of God’s work in our lives—the good-faith deposit God made to guarantee His promises. If you’ve placed your faith in Christ, you are a child of God. The Holy Spirit guarantees it. Reflection Question: How can you enlist the Holy Spirit’s help when you struggle with doubts about your faith? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” (Philippians 2:12–13 NLT) What if every Christian lived as you live? What if you were the sole representative of Jesus Christ on this earth? Would there be enough gospel in your life for people to believe? Enough saltiness to stimulate in them a thirst? Enough light for them to find their way out of the darkness and put their faith in Jesus Christ? That may seem like a farfetched scenario, but there are people whose exposure to the Christian faith is limited to the negative stereotypes they see in the media. If you don’t step into the role and embrace the idea of representing and modeling the Christian faith, you give other people the chance to do it. People with ulterior motives. People who have reason to misrepresent the Christian faith. That’s how negative stereotypes get traction. Of course, even in the face of negative stereotypes you have an opportunity to shine a light and show what genuine faith looks like. Titus 3:2 says believers “must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone” (NLT). First Peter 3:16 says, “Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ” (NLT). And Jesus says in Matthew 5:11–12, “God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven” (NLT). The opportunities are endless. As a believer, every situation you find yourself in, every interaction you have with someone else, and every choice you make in the way you conduct yourself has the potential to leave a lasting impression on someone else. The way you represent Christ may be the push someone else needs to begin a relationship with Him. In Philippians 2:12, the apostle Paul says, “Work hard to show the results of your salvation” (NLT). In verses 14–18, he explains how to do it. “Do everything without complaining and arguing” (verse 14 NLT). “Live clean, innocent lives as children of God” (verse 15 NLT). “Hold firmly to the word of life” (verse 16 NLT). “You should rejoice” (verse 18 NLT). If you’re a believer, you’re a representative of Christ. There’s no getting around it. Whether you like it or not, the way you live will factor into people’s attitude toward the Christian faith. Embrace the opportunity. Show people the life-changing power of a relationship with Christ. Give them a thirst for God’s truth. Be the light they need in this increasingly dark world. Reflection Question: How can you become a more powerful and influential representative of Jesus Christ? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.” (Ephesians 6:18 NLT) All Christians experience times when we come face to face with overwhelming hardship. For Peter, it was witnessing the betrayal and arrest of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. You can find the story in John 18. Peter simply could not stomach the thought of the Lord’s enemies taking Him away. Frustrated and in despair, Peter drew his sword in defense of his Lord and cut off the ear of one of the men who arrested Jesus (see verse 10). Of course, that’s not what Jesus wanted. The sword was not the answer to salvation. Poor Peter. He was always doing the wrong thing at the wrong time. He was sleeping when he should have been praying. He was talking when he should have been listening. He was boasting when he should have been fearing. And he was fighting when he should have been surrendering. His instincts were 180 degrees off. Peter failed to see that he was fighting the wrong enemy. As the apostle Paul points out in Ephesians 6:12, our enemies are not of flesh and blood. They are principalities and powers, and they cannot be defeated by ordinary measures. Too often we, like Peter, forget that ours is a spiritual battle that requires spiritual weaponry. And we neglect the most powerful weapon in our arsenal—prayer. We are too quick to protest or picket and not quick enough to pray. In his description of the armor of God available to believers to withstand and counter the attacks of our enemy, Paul concludes with this: “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere” (Ephesians 6:18 NLT). Pray at all times. Be persistent. Prayer isn’t just an emergency button we push when we can’t think of anything else to do. It’s an essential communication channel that links us to God, our source of strength, courage, wisdom, comfort, and peace. God supplies us with everything we need for our spiritual battles. But we don’t have to wait until we’re in the thick of the fight to call on Him. Jesus faced opposition throughout His ministry. Passages such as Luke 5:16 give us a glimpse into how He prepared for battle. “But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer” (NLT). And when that opposition came to a head, Jesus headed for Gethsemane, a favorite prayer spot. The reality is that we all will face Gethsemanes in life. For Jesus, Gethsemane was a time of suffering and hardship, a time when He chose to surrender to the will of His Father. You, too, may face similar experiences in life that you don’t understand. You don’t know what lies ahead. But you can trust your unknown future into the hands of a known God. Reflection Question: How can you make your prayers more effective in your spiritual battles? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.