Podcasts about nlt

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

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

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

OCT. 2,2025Your emotions matter to God (2)."Let all bitterness, wrath, anger...be put away from you." Eph 4:31 NKJVLike Jesus, we have been created in the image of a God who expresses emotions.Neither the Father nor the Son was afraid or embarrassed to feel deeply, and we shouldn't be either. In Scripture God's heart broke for His wayward children (See Hos 11:8-9). Jesus wept openly at the grave of His dear friend Lazarus (See Jn 11:35). He expressed righteous anger over moneylenders defrauding worshipers in the temple (See Lk 19:45-46). And when it comes to our own feelings, we are neither powerless pawns nor fearful fugitives. God wants us to own them, understand their message, and seek His counsel in engaging them for His glory and the benefit of others. The psalmist often voiced his emotions before God. In Psalm 22:1, he cried out, "My God...why have you abandoned me? Why are you so far away when I groan for help?" (NLT). Think how he must have felt to make him say those words: intense fear, panic, confusion, disappointment, and betrayal. But note what he did with his emotions. He took them to God, addressed Him personally, and called on His help: "Do not stay so far from me, for trouble is near, and no one else can help me" (v. 11 NLT). David's approach was bold, and he found the help he needed: "For he has not ignored or belittled the suffering of the needy. He has not turned his back on them, but has listened to their cries for help" (v. 24 NLT).When you bring your feelings to God, you will find that "all who seek the Lord will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy" (v. 26 NLT).Your emotions matter to God We are neither powerless pawns nor fearful fugitives.Share This DevotionalSend us a textSupport the showChanging Lives | Building Strong Family | Impacting Our Community For Jesus Christ!

OCT. 6, 2025Be careful what you watch."I will lead a life of integrity in my own home. I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar." Ps 101:2-3 NLTAs a teen, Megan arrived home from school just in time to watch an hour of soap operas before doing her homework. She enjoyed the escape into the TV world and wasn't aware that the programs were arousing sexual curiosity in her. After years of exposure to these soaps, her perspective on life took a shift. She began to think, "Relationships don't need to be pure. In fact, the impure ones seem more exciting. Fidelity doesn't matter, as long as a person is happy." As a college student, Megan found it easy to participate in one-night stands. Then after a short marriage ended in catastrophe as a result of her infidelity, she sought help from a counselor.At first it was difficult for the counselor to understand why Megan engaged in extramarital affairs. She had been a model teenager at home, church, and school, as far as her public behavior was concerned. Finally the counselor discovered the source of the temptation that drove Megan to participate in her supposed hidden life. What you watch on television and the internet becomes part of your memory bank. You're putting images on file that Satan will use against you. David's affair with Bathsheba started with a wrong look and ended up bringing tragedy to his family. Later David wrote: "I will lead a life of integrity in my own home. I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar...I will reject perverse ideas and stay from every evil...! will search for faithful people to be my companions" (vv. 2-4, 6 NLT).Be careful what you watch Your memory bankShare This DevotionalSend us a textSupport the showChanging Lives | Building Strong Family | Impacting Our Community For Jesus Christ!

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

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

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

Satan wants the church confused about sin—because if you don't know what's killing you, you'll never reach for the cure.  In this message, Lead Pastor Jamie Nunnally shares how to overcome sin and live the life God calls you to live. What is sin?Sin is any behavior, intentional or accidental, outside of God's boundaries. The Bible also calls it "trespass"—you're not just doing the wrong thing; your heart is in the wrong place.Romans 3:23 NIV: "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." What the Bible says about sin:Sin is not just a behavior—it's our nature. Romans 5:12 NLT: "Adam's sin brought death... so death spread to everyone." Don't just think of sin as an action you commit, but a condition you carry.We don't become sinners because we sin; we sin because we're sinners.Sin is selfishness. Matthew 16:24 NIV: "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves..." Sin starts when "self" sits on the throne.Sin is lawlessness. 1 John 3:4 ESV: "Sin is lawlessness." Other terms: transgression (sin on purpose) and iniquity (a lifestyle of rebellion).Why sin matters:Sin is a big deal because it hurts everyone.Sin hurts you. Romans 6:23 ESV: "The wages of sin is death." Sin sells pleasure but hides the price tag.Sin hurts others. Hebrews 12:15 NLT: "Watch out... that no root of bitterness... corrupts many." Sin is like glitter—it spreads.Sin hurts God. Ephesians 4:30 NLT: "Do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit."What doesn't work:Trying harder. Romans 7:21–23: "I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong..." Righteousness comes from God's power not willpower. Freedom is found in surrender, not striving. More rules. Colossians 2:20–23: "Such rules... provide no help in conquering evil desires."Anger. James 1:20: "The wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God." You can't punish people into purity.What does work:Confessing and cleansing. 1 John 1:9 NLT: "If we confess... he is faithful to forgive..."Repenting and retraining. Acts 2:38: "Repent... turn to God... and be baptized." Repentance is more than "I'm sorry"—it's "I'm done."Relying and relating. Romans 5:18 NLT: "Christ's one act... brings a right relationship with God." The cure for sin isn't effort, it's intimacy.The Cure:Like anti-venom comes from a lamb's blood, our cure comes from the Lamb of God.2 Corinthians 5:21: "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us..."Sin is serious—but Jesus already dealt with it.So next time the enemy tries to accuse you, say:"Not today, Satan—the cure's already in my veins."Are you surrendering your sin to your Savior?

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

2 Timothy 1-2 (NLT)

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

In this special episode, Sydney Jackson sits down with Lead Pastor Jeff Brodie to unpack the heart and vision behind Sacred Homecoming—a four-day experience calling our church to return, repent, and renew. Jeff shares the journey that led to this moment, the inspiration from Luke 15 and Nehemiah, and how this time is about seeking God's presence together as a community. They talk candidly about what to expect, why this isn't just another church event, and how Sacred Homecoming is an invitation for every person who calls Connexus Church home to draw near to God in a fresh way. Whether you're new to Connexus or have been around for years, this conversation will inspire you to prepare your heart and lean into what God might do in this powerful week.  

“Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely.” (1 Corinthians 13:12 NLT) Will we recognize one another in Heaven? The short answer is yes, absolutely. Why would we know less in Heaven than we know on earth? In Heaven, we are perfected. We are glorified. Look at the apostle Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 13:12: “Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely” (NLT). In Heaven, there will be no more mysteries. No more questions. Everything will be resolved. Everything will be known. You will still love your family and friends. In fact, you will love them with a stronger, purer, and sweeter love. Death may break our bonds on earth, but God restores them in Heaven. We don’t change identities in Heaven. We’ll be the same people there that we are on earth. I’ll still be me. You’ll still be you. But we’ll be perfected versions of ourselves. Without the flaws. Without the shortcomings. Without the sinful tendencies. We’ll be glorified in the presence of God. And we’ll know all things that Scripture says. Matthew 17 records the Transfiguration of Jesus. He took Peter, James, and John to a high mountain, where they saw Him in His glory. Verse 3 says, “Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared and began talking with Jesus” (NLT). But how did anyone know that it was Moses and Elijah? Those men lived centuries before the events of the New Testament. Do you think Moses was holding two commandment tablets and saying, “Hi, I’m Moses. Recognize these?” Do you think Elijah was calling down fire from Heaven so that he’d be more recognizable? Do you think they were wearing name tags? “Hi! My name is Moses.” I don’t think so. The point is that even after being called back from glory momentarily to appear with Christ, Moses and Elijah were recognizable. Just as we will be recognizable when we get to Heaven. And it won’t be just your appearance that’s familiar. You’ll have the same thoughts, feelings, and desires that you had on earth. But they’ll all be perfected. You will be the purest version of you in Heaven. So, the people who love you will love you even more. When Jesus appeared to His frightened disciples after His resurrection, He said, “Why are you frightened? . . . Why are your hearts filled with doubt? Look at my hands. Look at my feet. You can see that it’s really me. Touch me and make sure that I am not a ghost, because ghosts don’t have bodies, as you see that I do” (Luke 24:38–39 NLT). In other words, “You know who I am.” One of the countless joys of Heaven will be reuniting with our Christian loved ones. One of the challenges of earth is making sure that our loved ones will be in Heaven. Reflection question: Who are you eager to reunite with in Heaven? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength. They are buried as natural human bodies, but they will be raised as spiritual bodies. For just as there are natural bodies, there are also spiritual bodies.” (1 Corinthians 15:43–44 NLT) When you get to Heaven, God will give you a brand-new body. But the blueprint for your glorified body is in the body you now possess. In other words, there will be a connection between the you of earth and the you of Heaven. The apostle Paul wrote, “Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength. They are buried as natural human bodies, but they will be raised as spiritual bodies. For just as there are natural bodies, there are also spiritual bodies” (1 Corinthians 15:43–44 NLT). That means our new bodies will, in some ways, be the same as our old bodies, but at the same time, they will be different. Without question, they will be radically improved. No more physical disabilities. No signs of age. No sinful tendencies. Joni Eareckson Tada, who was left a quadriplegic after a diving accident, wrote a book called Heaven: Your Real Home. In it, she talked about the new bodies we will receive. “No more bulging middles or balding tops. No varicose veins or crow’s feet. No more cellulite or support hose. Forget the thunder thighs and the highway hips. Just a quick leapfrog over the tombstone and it is a body you have always dreamed of. Fit and trim. Smooth and sleek.” Our new resurrection bodies will resemble the resurrection body of Jesus Christ. Jesus appeared to His disciples in the flesh after He rose from the dead. He ate. He invited Thomas to touch the wounds from His crucifixion. Yet He could appear in a room without using the door. And He ascended to glory. The Bible doesn’t tell us whether we’ll be able to do the same things. But it does say, “Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is” (1 John 3:2 NLT). That’s an exciting prospect. And Paul wrote, “For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down (that is, when we die and leave this earthly body), we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands. We grow weary in our present bodies, and we long to put on our heavenly bodies like new clothing. For we will put on heavenly bodies; we will not be spirits without bodies. While we live in these earthly bodies, we groan and sigh, but it’s not that we want to die and get rid of these bodies that clothe us. Rather, we want to put on our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be swallowed up by life” (2 Corinthians 5:1–4 NLT). In other words, our heavenly body will be familiar, yet amazingly different from our current body. Reflection question: What do you look forward to most about your heavenly body? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1 NLT) One question people ask when a loved one dies is whether the person will still be aware of what’s happening on earth. The Bible suggests that the answer is yes, although not in the ways some people believe. Some grieving people cling to the belief that their departed loved ones watch over them, guide them, and even communicate with them. But that’s not what the Bible tells us. What the Bible does suggest is that people in Heaven are aware of loved ones who aren’t saved. In Luke 16, Jesus tells the story of a poor man named Lazarus and a rich man. Both men died. Lazarus went to a place of comfort where he sat beside Abraham at a heavenly banquet. The rich man went to a place of torment. The rich man was fully aware of the people he had left behind. He asked Abraham to send the righteous Lazarus on a mission to them. “Then the rich man said, ‘Please, Father Abraham, at least send him to my father’s home. For I have five brothers, and I want him to warn them so they don’t end up in this place of torment’” (verses 27–28 NLT). The Bible also suggests that when people on earth receive Jesus as Savior and Lord, it becomes public knowledge in Heaven. In Luke 15, Jesus tells a parable about a lost sheep and a parable about a lost coin. When that which was lost is found—that is, when those who were lost come to Christ—there is great rejoicing. Jesus said, “In the same way, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away!” (verse 7 NLT). He also said, “In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels when even one sinner repents” (verse 10 NLT). The Bible suggests that people in Heaven may be aware of the time and place of earthly events. Revelation 6 talks about a group of believers who are martyred for their faith. “They shouted to the Lord and said, ‘O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you judge the people who belong to this world and avenge our blood for what they have done to us?’” (verse 10 NLT). The martyrs know that they were killed for following Christ on earth. They’re aware of the passing of time. And in verse 11, they’re aware that other people on earth will join them. Finally, Hebrews 12:1 suggests that people in Heaven are cheering us on. “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us” (NLT). Your Christian loved ones have a vested interest in your spiritual well-being; death will not change that. Reflection question: What do you want your loved ones in Heaven to see? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This guided Christian meditation on Ezekiel 36:25–27 invites you to pause, breathe, and open your heart to God’s transforming work. Through Scripture meditation, reflection, and guided prayer, you’ll be reminded that God promises to remove our stony, stubborn hearts and give us tender, responsive ones. This meditation connects with Step Six of the 12 Steps, which says: “We were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.” Step Six is all about willingness — being ready for God to do what only He can do. Transformation doesn’t come from trying harder or following a self-improvement plan. It comes from opening ourselves to the Spirit and allowing God to change us from the inside out. Even though God does the transforming, we still have a part to play. We participate by showing up, making space for Scripture meditation, confessing to someone trustworthy, and surrounding ourselves with people who point us to Jesus. But the heavy lifting belongs to God. He is the One who changes hearts. Take a deep breath, and let this meditation on Ezekiel 36 remind you: God is bigger than your sin. Jesus is better than every substitute we chase. And the Spirit is stronger than anything that pulls us away. God is ready to transform even the most hardened parts of your heart into something new and tender. Helpful Links: Download your FREE companion journal for Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Scripture: Ezekiel 36:25–27 (NLT) “Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols.And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11 NLT) Manx shearwaters are seabirds that nest off the coast of Wales. To study the birds’ homing instincts, scientists tagged and transported several Manx shearwaters to various points around the globe. They released the birds to see if they could make their way back to the coast of Wales in just twelve days. Each one did. One bird, which was released in Boston, traveled 250 miles a day from a place it had never been before to get back home. So, the next time someone calls you a birdbrain, take it as a compliment. God has placed a homing instinct in us as well. Call it a homesickness for Heaven. We long for a place we’ve never been before. That’s how we’re wired. The author of Ecclesiastes said that God “has planted eternity in the human heart” (3:11 NLT). In our next set of devotions, we’re going to explore what the Bible says about Heaven, the beacon for our homing instinct. Some people tend to go mystical when they talk about the afterlife. They describe Heaven as a state of mind rather than an actual place. The Bible, on the other hand, describes Heaven as a real place. Jesus told His followers, “There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?” (John 14:2 NLT). The author of Hebrews described Heaven as a city. “But they were looking for a better place, a heavenly homeland. That is why God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them” (Hebrews 11:16 NLT). Jesus identified Heaven as the dwelling place of God when He began the Lord’s Prayer with the words “Our Father in heaven” (Matthew 6:9 NLT). Luke identified it as the dwelling place of angels. “When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about’” (Luke 2:15 NLT). Hebrews 12:23 identifies Heaven as the dwelling place of believers who have died. “You have come to the assembly of God’s firstborn children, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God himself, who is the judge over all things. You have come to the spirits of the righteous ones in heaven who have now been made perfect” (NLT). Our brief time on earth is a pale imitation—a sneak preview—of what awaits us in Heaven. C. S. Lewis wrote, “All the things that have ever deeply possessed your soul have been hints of heaven—tantalising glimpses, promises never quite fulfilled, echoes that died away just as they caught your ear.” Lewis also wrote , “If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is I was made for another world…Earthly pleasures were never meant to satisfy but to arouse, to suggest, the real thing.” Heaven is the real thing that we long for. Reflection question: How can you tell that you have eternity planted in your heart? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feeling distant from God? Megan J. Conner reminds us in Hide and Seek that even when we hide from Him—whether through sin, fear, or heartache—He is patiently waiting to be found. Drawing on Deuteronomy 4:29, this devotional encourages believers to seek God with their whole heart and soul, trusting that He is always near. Highlights Hiding from God is natural, but His presence is never absent Childhood hide-and-seek illustrates how we often distance ourselves from the Lord God patiently waits for us to reach toward Him, even in dark or difficult seasons Scripture reassures us of God’s unwavering presence: Deut. 31:6; Matt. 28:20; Acts 17:27 Seeking God wholeheartedly leads to restoration and intimacy with Him Join the Conversation Are you hiding from God today, or seeking Him with your whole heart? Share your reflections and encourage others to trust in God’s presence. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #SeekGod #FaithInTheWilderness #FoundInHim to join the conversation.

Matthew 6:25 - “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?” (NKJV) 1. Bring your worries to God in prayer. 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) 2. Trade your worry for worship. Philippians 4:6-7 - Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 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. (NLT) 3. Focus your mind on the pure and positive things. Philippians 4:8 - And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. (NLT) Proverbs 4:23 - Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. (NIV) Romans 12:2 – Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. (NLT) Colossians 3:1-3 - Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.  (NIV) Isaiah 26:3 - You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! (NLT)

Adversity isn't just something we endure—it's something God uses to shape us, strengthen us, and set us apart. In Part 5 of our Inside Out: Becoming Emotionally and Spiritually Healthy in Christ series, Pastor Talaat McNeely delivers a powerful message entitled “I'm Built Different.”Drawing from 1 Peter 1:6–7 (NLT), this message reminds us that trials are not wasted in the Kingdom. Instead, they are the very tools God uses to:Strengthen our faith beyond surface-level beliefPosition us for purpose even when life feels unfairRefine our character through the fire of challengesGive us a testimony that inspires and comforts othersWith vivid biblical examples, cultural connections, and practical steps for walking it out, Pastor Talaat equips us to see adversity not as a setback but as God's setup for growth.If you've ever asked “Why me?” in a season of struggle, this message will give you fresh perspective and renewed hope. You'll discover that in God's hands, adversity is not the end of your story—it's the training ground where He proves you're built different.

IN THE STORM Jonah 1.4-16 Last week, we discussed the WHY: Jonah bolted because God was sending him to Nineveh, known for their evil and cruelty. Jonah buys a ticket for Tarshish. The writer of Jonah loves the word “down.” • Jonah went down to Joppa (v1,3) • He went down to the ship (v3) • He went down into the inner part of the ship (v5) • There, he laid down (v5) • And he went down into the sea, into the belly of a fish. Isn't that how it works? Small steps until you realize you're completely underwater. Jonah 1.4–6 (ESV) The Lord hurled a great wind upon the sea, and there was a mighty tempest on the sea, so that the ship threatened to break up. Then the mariners were afraid, and each cried out to his god. And they hurled the cargo that was in the ship into the sea to lighten it for them. But Jonah had gone down into the inner part of the ship and had lain down and was fast asleep. So the captain came and said to him, “What do you mean, you sleeper? Arise, call out to your god! Perhaps the god will give a thought to us, that we may not perish.” C. S. Lewis: “Pain is God's megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” Hebrews 12.6-7 (NLT) says, “The Lord disciplines those He loves.” When storms hit, we may grumble, “Why me?” For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.” As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? God hasn't given up on us. He loves us enough to shake us awake. Verse 5 says, “Each cried out to his god.” That's what people do in storms: they run to their gods. But false gods can't calm real storms. What do storms do? • Storms reveal our gods. Who do you turn to first when life falls apart? That's your god. • Storms remind us of God's sovereignty. Storms show us we're not in control. • Storms redirect us. • Storms bring unexpected conversions. Jonah wasn't aiming to evangelize sailors, but his storm became their salvation. Jonah: “Worst Missionary of All Time” • He didn't want to go. • He hated those to whom he was being sent. • He literally begged people to kill him so he wouldn't have to preach. Why worship God even in our storms: • God loves us enough to send storms. Storms are not punishment but rescue missions. • Knowledge without obedience is useless. Jonah knew the right God but lived the wrong way. • Our storms may lead others to salvation. Your struggle might become someone else's testimony. • The storm is not the end. Jonah went down, but grace was waiting even in the deep. Jonah's storm led sailors to worship and eventually led Jonah to repentance. What might God be up to in your storm?Subscribe to PRESTONCREST - with Gordon Dabbs on Soundwise

IN THE STORM Jonah 1.4-16 Last week, we discussed the WHY: Jonah bolted because God was sending him to Nineveh, known for their evil and cruelty. Jonah buys a ticket for Tarshish. The writer of Jonah loves the word “down.” • Jonah went down to Joppa (v1,3) • He went down to the ship (v3) • He went down into the inner part of the ship (v5) • There, he laid down (v5) • And he went down into the sea, into the belly of a fish. Isn't that how it works? Small steps until you realize you're completely underwater. Jonah 1.4–6 (ESV) The Lord hurled a great wind upon the sea, and there was a mighty tempest on the sea, so that the ship threatened to break up. Then the mariners were afraid, and each cried out to his god. And they hurled the cargo that was in the ship into the sea to lighten it for them. But Jonah had gone down into the inner part of the ship and had lain down and was fast asleep. So the captain came and said to him, “What do you mean, you sleeper? Arise, call out to your god! Perhaps the god will give a thought to us, that we may not perish.” C. S. Lewis: “Pain is God's megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” Hebrews 12.6-7 (NLT) says, “The Lord disciplines those He loves.” When storms hit, we may grumble, “Why me?” For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.” As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? God hasn't given up on us. He loves us enough to shake us awake. Verse 5 says, “Each cried out to his god.” That's what people do in storms: they run to their gods. But false gods can't calm real storms. What do storms do? • Storms reveal our gods. Who do you turn to first when life falls apart? That's your god. • Storms remind us of God's sovereignty. Storms show us we're not in control. • Storms redirect us. • Storms bring unexpected conversions. Jonah wasn't aiming to evangelize sailors, but his storm became their salvation. Jonah: “Worst Missionary of All Time” • He didn't want to go. • He hated those to whom he was being sent. • He literally begged people to kill him so he wouldn't have to preach. Why worship God even in our storms: • God loves us enough to send storms. Storms are not punishment but rescue missions. • Knowledge without obedience is useless. Jonah knew the right God but lived the wrong way. • Our storms may lead others to salvation. Your struggle might become someone else's testimony. • The storm is not the end. Jonah went down, but grace was waiting even in the deep. Jonah's storm led sailors to worship and eventually led Jonah to repentance. What might God be up to in your storm?Subscribe to PRESTONCREST - with Gordon Dabbs on Soundwise

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

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

"No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." - Micah 6:8 NLTRestore Church | Yorkville, ILSunday Mornings | 10 AMJordan & Melissa Gash, Pastorshttps://www.restorechurchyorkville.com

"No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." - Micah 6:8 NLTRestore Church | Yorkville, ILSunday Mornings | 10 AMJordan & Melissa Gash, Pastorshttps://www.restorechurchyorkville.com

We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Once again Jesus began teaching by the lakeshore. A very large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat in the boat while all the people remained on the shore. He taught them by telling many stories in the form of parables, such as this one: Mark 4:1-2 NLTNot everyone who comes to hear the truth is there to actually listen.Listen! A farmer (sower) went out to sow some seed. Mark 4:3 NLTWithout the Godly seed being sown we have no hope of having deep healthy roots that bear Godly fruit! As he scattered it across his field, some of the seed fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate it. Other seed fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seed sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. But the plant soon wilted under the hot sun, and since it didn't have deep roots, it died. Other seed fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants so they produced no grain. Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they sprouted, grew, and produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted! Mark 4:4-8 NLT And he said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Mark 4:9 ESV Honestly and Intentionally listening will give the seed of God's word an opportunity to take root in our lives. When they were off by themselves, those who were close to him, along with the Twelve, asked about the stories. He told them, “You've been given insight into God's kingdom, you know how it works. But to those who can't see it yet, everything comes in stories, creating readiness, nudging them toward a welcome awakening. These are people, Whose eyes are open but don't see a thing, Whose ears are open but don't understand a word, Who avoid making an about-face and getting forgiven.” Mark 4:10-12 MSG Anyone who will lay down their deeply rooted previous perspectives, and truly wants to hear, will hear. And he said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? The sower sows the word. Mark 4:13 ESVHumility is a huge indicator of the condition of the soil of our hearts. The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message, only to have Satan come at once and take it away. Mark 4:14 NLTThe hard pre-decided heart will not receive the truth of God.The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. But since they don't have deep roots, they don't last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God's word. Mark 4:15-16 NLTShallow roots are the result of enthusiasm without a willingness to do the real work of going deep with God. The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God's word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, so no fruit is produced. Mark 4:17-18 NLTThe rocks deter the root, while the weeds the destroy the fruit. Weeds hide and grow, even thrive in the un-surrendered places in our hearts.Repentance isn't just saying you're sorry; it's re-aligning your heart with God's way, truth and life!And the seed that fell on good soil represents those who hear and accept God's word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” Mark 4:20 NLTToday, if you hear his voice, do not harden your heart. Hebrews 4:7 CSB-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8 NLT) The Holy Spirit dwells within every believer. He bears witness with us that we are children of God. He seals us. Jesus’ disciples experienced His indwelling. When Jesus appeared to His followers after His resurrection, “He breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit’” (John 20:22 NLT). So, when Jesus spoke to them again in Acts 1:8, He wasn’t talking about the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. He was talking about something different. The Greek word dunamis, which is translated as power in Acts 1:8, has an interesting history. In 1867, a chemist and inventor named Alfred Nobel discovered a power greater than anything the world had known before. It was an explosive element that he created in a laboratory. Looking for a name for his invention, Nobel consulted a friend who was a Greek scholar. By changing a few letters in dunamis, the Greek word for explosive power, Nobel came up with the word dynamite. That’s the idea that Jesus conveyed in Acts 1:8. He was saying to His disciples, “You will receive explosive dynamite power when the Spirit has come upon you.” The power to be a witness. The power to share your faith. The power to speak up and be counted. The power to turn your world upside down. The power of the Holy Spirit transformed the lives of first-century believers. Prior to receiving it, the apostle Peter couldn’t stand up for his faith when strangers asked him if he was a follower of Jesus. After he received it, Peter boldly preached the gospel to a crowd of thousands. Prior to receiving the Holy Spirit’s power, the apostle Paul was an enemy of the Christian faith. After receiving it, he became one of its greatest champions. The same power is available to us today. The power to be a witness. The power to boldly approach someone you don’t know and tell them about Jesus Christ. The power to lovingly confront someone about their sin. The power to initiate a life-changing conversation. The power to tell people about what Jesus has done for you. My question to you is this: Do you have this power in your life right now? Has your prayer life become dry and one-dimensional? Do you feel less than engaged with God’s Word? Do you feel as though there’s something lacking in your spiritual walk? Are you stricken with fear at the very idea of sharing your faith? If so, then you, my friend, are a candidate for the empowering of the Holy Spirit. All you have to do is pray. Ask God to empower you with His Spirit. Ask Him to help you feel the Spirit’s presence in your life, guiding and encouraging you to grow and share your faith in ways that transform the world around you. Reflection question: What would the “dynamite power” of the Holy Spirit look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“But when the Father sends the Advocate 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 NLT) Have you ever experienced the Holy Spirit’s biblical intervention? Maybe you were struggling in a certain area of your life. Or you were facing a difficult temptation. Or you were unsure of what to do in a situation. Then suddenly, a passage of Scripture jumped into your mind—one that spoke clearly to your circumstances. And—here’s the amazing part—one that you don’t remember memorizing. It may have been a passage you heard in a sermon a few months earlier or one that you talked about in a Bible study ten years ago. If, in that moment, you wondered where that passage came from, Jesus offers the answer in John 14:26: “But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you” (NLT). The Holy Spirit reminds you what you need to know when you need to know it. That work extends to other areas as well. The apostle Peter wrote, “And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it” (1 Peter 3:15 NLT). Sometimes that’s not possible. Sometimes people ask questions that you can’t answer immediately. Sometimes you draw a blank when you’re asked to explain some aspect of your faith. That’s when the Holy Spirit intervenes. Thoughts come to you. Answers that you didn’t know you had. You start sharing, and the words that come out are so good that you want to take notes on yourself. You say to yourself, “This is good stuff. Where did it come from?” It didn’t come from you. It came from the Holy Spirit. He’s reminding you of what you know. Of course, that doesn’t excuse you from the discipline of Bible study. You can’t just hold your Bible up and say, “I pray that all of these things will go into my brain right now.” You still must discipline yourself to read, study, and memorize Scripture. You must put in the work to know and understand what God’s Word says. If you do that, you can trust the Holy Spirit to remind you of what you know at crucial moments. That’s why, before you study Scripture, it’s important to pray for the Holy Spirit to illuminate what you read. Paul wrote, “That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, ‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.’ But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God’s deep secrets” (1 Corinthians 2:9–10 NLT). Once those secrets have been shown to you, they can be recalled again and again. The Holy Spirit will bring them to mind to strengthen and guide you when you need them. Reflection question: In what area of Bible study do you need the Holy Spirit’s assistance? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will.” (Romans 8:26–27 NLT) There will be times when you don’t know what or how to pray. You may be overwhelmed with a burden. You may be discouraged. You may be depressed. You may be afraid. That’s when the Holy Spirit steps in to help you. Referring to the Holy Spirit, Jesus said, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you” (John 14:16 NLT). The word Advocate also can be translated as Comforter. It comes from the Greek word parakletos, which means “called alongside to help.” The Holy Spirit comes alongside you to assist you in your prayer. He serves as an advocate in interceding for you and pleading your cause before the Father. Let’s face it, some prayer requests are too complex to put into words. Some situations are beyond your ability to fully grasp. Some cause you to confront your self-interests in uncomfortable ways, requiring you to choose between what’s easiest for you in the short term and what’s best for you in the long term. In situations like these, arranging your thoughts and emotions into coherent sentences may seem next to impossible. The good news is that sometimes the most profound prayers are nothing more than a sigh or a groan—an emotional SOS, signaling that you’re overwhelmed and don’t know what to say. I can attest. After my son died, I struggled to come to grips with the reality of his being gone. I prayed to God, but I didn’t always know what to pray. So, sometimes I just said, “Oh, Lord.” Sometimes I just groaned. Sometimes I just cried. Sometimes I just sighed. But that was all I needed to do because I wasn’t crying out against God; I was crying out to Him for help. And His Holy Spirit was ready to assist. The apostle Paul wrote, “And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will” (Romans 8:26–27 NLT). Don’t let a lack of words keep you from praying. No matter what you’re experiencing, take it to the Lord. Give Him your sighs, your groans, your tears, your anxiety, your rage. Even if you can muster no more than “God, please,” it’s enough for the Holy Spirit to work with. He will make your needs known to the One who can bring ultimate good from any situation. Reflection question: When have you needed the Holy Spirit’s assistance with a prayer? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“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) How do I know if you’re a Christian? For that matter, how do you know if I’m a Christian? You can’t see my heart. You can’t see my faith. But you can see the results of my faith. Jesus said, “Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions” (Matthew 7:20 NLT). I can’t determine if you’re a follower of Jesus merely by your profession; I need to see evidence in you. And that evidence is spiritual fruit. Spiritual fruit doesn’t grow overnight; it takes time. Sometimes the best judge of the growth in your life is another person. You may be introspective and ask, “Have I become more like Jesus in the last twenty-four hours?” But that’s like trying to watch your kids grow. The growth is too subtle to notice in real time. But someone who hasn’t seen your kids in months may say, “Wow, they’ve really grown!” Similarly, you may not see spiritual growth in your own life. But someone else might say, “You’ve really changed!” That’s the work of the Holy Spirit in you. And that’s important because Jesus said, “You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name” (John 15:16 NLT). Jesus wants to see spiritual fruit in your life. The apostle Paul identifies the fruit in Galatians 5:22–23. It starts with love—love for God and for others. Jesus said, “If you love me, obey my commandments” (John 14:15 NLT). We bear spiritual fruit when we show our love for the Lord. We show our love for the Lord by doing what He says. The Holy Spirit helps produce spiritual fruit by reminding us of God’s commands. Jesus also said, “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples” (John 13:35 NLT). We bear spiritual fruit when we show love to others—especially to people who are hard to love. The Holy Spirit helps in this area by reminding us of the love that God has shown us. We express that love by maintaining a spirit of joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Another translation of Galatians 5:22–23 puts it this way: “Things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely” (MSG). How do you bring forth this fruit? Jesus said, “But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!” (John 15:7 NLT). You remain in Christ. You sink your roots deeply in the soil of God’s Word. You get your nourishment from it. You stand strong when conditions get bad. You invite the Holy Spirit to cut away the dead or unhealthy branches in your life. That’s how you produce spiritual fruit. Reflection question: What does spiritual fruit look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Adam breaks down 1 Timothy 1:18-20. He challenges us to stay anchored to Christ, "Cling to your faith un Christ, and keep your conscience clear."(1 Timothy 1:19 NLT). 

Step Five of the 12 Steps invites us to admit to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs. This may be one of the hardest invitations of the journey. It’s tempting to think: Can’t I just admit my sins to God? Isn’t that enough? But Scripture reminds us that healing happens in community. James 5:16 says: “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” And Proverbs 28:13 tells us: “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” Confession isn’t about punishment — it’s about grace. And there is something deeply healing that happens when we bring our hidden struggles into the light with the witness of another person who can remind us of God’s mercy. In today’s meditation, we’ll step into the story of the prodigal son from Luke 15:17–24. We’ll imagine what it feels like to come home after making a wreck of our lives, and to be embraced by a Father who runs toward us with compassion and joy. This meditation is an invitation to pause with God and ask: What am I keeping hidden? What holds me back from confession? Who might be a trustworthy person I can talk with? Most of all, it’s a reminder that God already knows the whole story — and He is eager to meet us with mercy. When we finally come home, we discover grace waiting for us. Take a deep breath, settle in, and let’s step into this meditation together. Helpful Links:Download your FREE Rooted and Grounded: Scripture Meditations for Every Step of the Journey companion journal here.This journal includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you 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. Meditation Scripture: Luke 15:17–24 (NLT) 17 “When he finally came to his senses, he said to himself, ‘At home even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here I am dying of hunger! 18 I will go home to my father and say, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, 19 and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. Please take me on as a hired servant.”’ 20 “So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. 21 His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son.’ 22 “But his father said to the servants, ‘Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet. 23 And kill the calf we have been fattening. We must celebrate with a feast, 24 for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.’” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life.” (John 6:63 NLT) When you became a Christian, you did not do so by your own act of will. Yes, you believed. But it was the Holy Spirit who convicted you. The Holy Spirit showed you your need for Jesus. And the Holy Spirit ultimately converted you. That’s why Jesus said, “The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life” (John 6:63 nlt). And it’s why He said, “I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life” (John 3:5–6 NLT). Because the work of the Holy Spirit is so vital, the devil targets it in his attacks against us. More specifically, he tries to make us question the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. He tries to make us doubt what we know to be true. He tries to make us ask, “Was I really converted?” Unfortunately for us, the devil’s timing is usually impeccable. He prowls around after we’ve made a regrettable decision or given in to a troublesome temptation. He’ll try to make us feel like frauds, “pretend Christians.” He’ll raise doubts in our minds about whether the Holy Spirit really worked in our lives. He also tries to make our Christian faith feel like a burden or an obligation, or tries to make us believe that we’ve outgrown our faith—that it’s something that belongs in our past. Anything to distance us from the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We need to recognize the devil’s strategies and the lies behind them. The apostle Paul wrote, “And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38–39 NLT). The Holy Spirit personally gives us the assurance that Christ has come into our lives. Paul also wrote, “For his Holy Spirit speaks to us deep in our hearts and tells us that we really are God’s children” (Romans 8:16 TLB). That is the wonderful inner conviction and witness of the Holy Spirit. You just know that you belong to Christ. It’s hard to explain to someone who hasn’t experienced it. But it’s as real as the breath you’re drawing right now. I have that conviction in my heart. Do you? Has the Holy Spirit given you the inner conviction that, yes, you are a child of God? Reflection question: How did the Holy Spirit convert you? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Obedience. Why is it so hard to do what God tells us, when we know it's the right thing? Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” Matthew 16:24-26 NLT

In today’s world, amid the tragedy and turmoil we face every day, we need hope more than ever—true hope found in Jesus. Are you sharing this life-changing hope of the gospel with those around you?You have the power to start another Jesus Revolution today. Pastor Greg Laurie shares more in today’s message. Notes: Focus verses: Ephesians 4, Romans 12 God has given spiritual gifts to each of us. A spiritual gift is a supernatural ability to do something you would not normally do. Romans 12:5–16 (KJV)So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, God created you with purpose. God gave you certain gifts so you could use them to glorify Him and to serve others. We are here on this earth for three reasons:1. The glorification of God (UPWARD)2. The edification of the saints (INWARD)3. The evangelization of the world (OUTWARD) Ephesians 4:11–12 (NLT)Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Ephesians 4:11–12 (NLT) (cont)Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. Read Romans 12:6–8 There is a God-given gift of exhortation. Teachers tell you how to do it, exhorters make you want to do it. Our culture has become more combative.It's like the world has become a live version of X. Our ultimate goal is to build up, not tear down. If we really love one another, we must "speak the truth in love.”Ephesians 4:15 Paul and Barnabus worked together, visiting the churches.Acts 14:22 Hebrews 10:24–25 Romans 12:8If it is giving, then give generously. Scripture teaches each Christian should give.1 Corinthians 16:2 Romans 12:8 (NLT)And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly. As we use these gifts, we grow spiritually.Ephesians 4:15–16 We are here for the evangelization of the world. Isaiah 5:20 (NKJV)Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil;Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; The church is under attack right now. This was a wake-up call for the church that went to fervent prayer.Acts 12 Whenever we are doing the work of God we will face spiritual attack. Charlie reminds me of another young man who was bold for his faith, Stephen. When Charlie took his last breath on earth, he took his first breath in Heaven.2 Corinthians 5:8 Who do we turn to at a time like this? We turn to God.Psalm 46:1 We need to mourn when we lose a loved one. As tragic as Charlie’s death is, it has been a wake-up call to a younger generation.The same was true when Stephen died.Acts 8:1 Acts 1:8 (NIV)“…you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." After Steven’s death the church was scattered and got on with their mission.And as the church today, we need to do the same! Joshua 1:9 It’s time to reach this hopeless generation. This could be your Jesus Revolution moment. Sharing the gospel energizes and refreshes the Christian. You need an outlet for the truth God is giving you. You are blessed to be a blessing. Discover and cultivate the spiritual gifts that God has given you. --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners. Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today’s world, amid the tragedy and turmoil we face every day, we need hope more than ever—true hope found in Jesus. Are you sharing this life-changing hope of the gospel with those around you?You have the power to start another Jesus Revolution today. Pastor Greg Laurie shares more in today’s message. Notes: Focus verses: Ephesians 4, Romans 12 God has given spiritual gifts to each of us. A spiritual gift is a supernatural ability to do something you would not normally do. Romans 12:5–16 (KJV)So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, God created you with purpose. God gave you certain gifts so you could use them to glorify Him and to serve others. We are here on this earth for three reasons:1. The glorification of God (UPWARD)2. The edification of the saints (INWARD)3. The evangelization of the world (OUTWARD) Ephesians 4:11–12 (NLT)Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Ephesians 4:11–12 (NLT) (cont)Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. Read Romans 12:6–8 There is a God-given gift of exhortation. Teachers tell you how to do it, exhorters make you want to do it. Our culture has become more combative.It's like the world has become a live version of X. Our ultimate goal is to build up, not tear down. If we really love one another, we must "speak the truth in love.”Ephesians 4:15 Paul and Barnabus worked together, visiting the churches.Acts 14:22 Hebrews 10:24–25 Romans 12:8If it is giving, then give generously. Scripture teaches each Christian should give.1 Corinthians 16:2 Romans 12:8 (NLT)And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly. As we use these gifts, we grow spiritually.Ephesians 4:15–16 We are here for the evangelization of the world. Isaiah 5:20 (NKJV)Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil;Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; The church is under attack right now. This was a wake-up call for the church that went to fervent prayer.Acts 12 Whenever we are doing the work of God we will face spiritual attack. Charlie reminds me of another young man who was bold for his faith, Stephen. When Charlie took his last breath on earth, he took his first breath in Heaven.2 Corinthians 5:8 Who do we turn to at a time like this? We turn to God.Psalm 46:1 We need to mourn when we lose a loved one. As tragic as Charlie’s death is, it has been a wake-up call to a younger generation.The same was true when Stephen died.Acts 8:1 Acts 1:8 (NIV)“…you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." After Steven’s death the church was scattered and got on with their mission.And as the church today, we need to do the same! Joshua 1:9 It’s time to reach this hopeless generation. This could be your Jesus Revolution moment. Sharing the gospel energizes and refreshes the Christian. You need an outlet for the truth God is giving you. You are blessed to be a blessing. Discover and cultivate the spiritual gifts that God has given you. --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners. Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

God has called you for such a time as this. In “The Right Keys", Pastor Dave Patterson from The Father's House in Vacaville, CA is with us to celebrate CONVO's 7th Anniversary! God wants to do exceedingly abundantly more than we can ask or imagine in our lives, and He gives us the keys to do so, we just have to walk through those doors.If you want to contribute to support the ministry of CONVO Church, you can give securely online at http://convochurch.com/give​​​​​Scripture References |Ephesians 3, verses 20-21 (AMP)Matthew 16, verse 19 (MSG & NKJV)Luke 19, verses 41-42 (NLT)CONVO Church is led by Pastors Craig & Cara Dyson. We exist to lead people in becoming passionate Jesus followers bringing the love, grace, and truth of God into everyday convos, influencing every sphere of life. We are here to Inspire Purpose, Encourage Life, and Build Faith in you.

For a while now, you've probably heard people around you talk about "revival," but how do we actually get there? What does revival truly mean? Pastor Jon Chasteen addresses these topics in this special message, teaching us that "Revival rides on the heels of repentance and confession." We pray this message would be encouraging as you pursue revival in your own life. Scripture references: Acts 3:19-20 (NLT) 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NLT) Luke 15:16-20 (NIV)   Connect With Us: To learn more about Victory Church and to get connected, visit us at https://victory.church/   Worship Gathering Times: To see locations & worship gathering times, visit https://victory.church/locations/   Prayer: We believe in praying big prayers to a big God and expecting big results. If you're in need of prayer, our team would be honored to pray with you. You can reach us for prayer at https://victory.church/prayer   Giving: At Victory, we steward God's resources well and with radical generosity. If you'd like to give toward the mission of Victory Church, visit https://victory.church/give/   Follow Us: OKC Campus: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victorychurchokc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victorychurchok   Edmond Campus: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoryedmond/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victory.churchEDM   Grapevine (Texas) Campus: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victorychurchgrapevine/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089341962919

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future.” (John 16:13 NLT) “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth.” One of the core truths that the Holy Spirit guides us into involves righteousness. If you were to ask a random assortment of people whether they consider themselves righteous, most would probably say yes. Most people like to think of themselves as good, relatively speaking. Most people also recognize that there are certain plateaus of goodness. At the top are the saints who sacrifice almost everything to help others. Their goodness puts everyone else to shame, although they would be much too humble to ever acknowledge that. Most of us resign ourselves to the fact that we will never reach their level of righteousness. So, we settle for good enough. We say things like, “I may not always be an angel, but I’m not a devil either,” or “At least I’m not as bad as certain other people,” or “I may not be perfect, but I have a good heart.” We treat righteousness like the cut line in a golf tournament. We just have to be good enough—or just a little better than others. The problem is that, when it comes to righteousness, perfection is the cut line. That’s the truth the Holy Spirit guides us into. The apostle Paul wrote, “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard” (Romans 3:23 NLT). In Jesus’ day, the scribes and Pharisees were revered for their righteousness. They spent their days contemplating and debating the smallest details of God’s law. They observed every ritual. They held themselves to the highest religious standards. Yet Jesus said, “But I warn you—unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven!” (Matthew 5:20 NLT). I remember the first time I read that as a young Christian. I thought, “Now wait a second. Weren’t the Pharisees extremely devout men? How could my righteousness exceed theirs?” Here’s how: Theirs was a false righteousness. Theirs was a self-righteousness. Even their best efforts fell far short of God’s standard of perfection. The Holy Spirit says, “You are not righteous enough on your own. You need the righteousness of Christ imputed into your account because you are a sinner. But if you will trust in Jesus, this righteousness will be given to you.” If we repent, ask God to forgive our sins, and receive Christ as Savior and Lord, we receive His righteousness. So, when God looks at us, He sees the perfect righteousness of His Son. And He welcomes us into His presence forever. That’s the truth the Holy Spirit guides us into. Reflection question: How would you respond to someone who said, “I’m going to Heaven when I die because I’m a good person”? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment. The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in me.” (John 16:8–9 NLT) Over the next few days, we’re going to look at the nature and work of the Holy Spirit, one of God’s greatest gifts to us. The Holy Spirit performs vital duties in this world. Yet many of them go unnoticed because we simply take them for granted. But it’s important for God’s people to understand and celebrate His work. So, let’s start with this one: The Holy Spirit convicts us of our sin. Jesus said of the Holy Spirit, “And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment. The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in me” (John 16:8–9 nlt). The Holy Spirit shows us that we are sinners. He communicates the amazing truth of Jesus’ death and resurrection. He shows us that we need to turn to God. Without the convicting power of the Holy Spirit, none of us ever would have come to Jesus. That’s why, when I pray for a nonbeliever, I say, “Lord, convict them by Your Holy Spirit.” If I tell someone that Jesus has made my life fuller and better, and that I have joy and peace, they will think, “Well, that’s fine for you.” But what they need to realize is that they’re a sinner in need of a Savior. And that’s the work of the Spirit. The Spirit convicts us of our sin—not to drive us to despair, but to send us into the open arms of Jesus. On the Day of Pentecost, the apostle Peter delivered a sermon. Some of the people in the audience were culpable in Jesus’ crucifixion. Acts 2:37 says, “Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, ‘Brothers, what should we do?’” (NLT). The Holy Spirit was doing the piercing. The idea of piercing someone’s heart may be a little unsettling—if you imagine the act as an attack with a knife. But what if the blade is a scalpel? And the one wielding it is a highly trained surgeon? And the piercing is a necessary procedure to remove a cancerous tumor? Suddenly the scenario is reframed as a life-giving act of mercy. So it is with the convicting work of the Holy Spirit. He reveals the ugly truth—that we are sinners, powerless to save ourselves. He reveals the dire consequences—that we face God’s eternal judgment. And then He reveals the life-giving truth—that God made salvation possible through the sacrifice of His Son. The Holy Spirit pierces our hearts—not to weaken us or destroy us, but to save us. He shows us just how much we need Jesus. Reflection question: What did the convicting work of the Holy Spirit look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's bedtime and Henry doesn't understand why he should obey his parents until he falls asleep and dreams that his toys have come to life! Teddy and Captain Flash clash with King Kong until Godzwilla sets them straight!In episode one, kids learn that we must train ourselves to do things God's way, based on what the Bible says, no matter what. It pleases God when the attitude of our heart is to obey His Word willingly! Choosing to obey God in the “little things” makes it easier to obey Him in the bigger things! “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” James 4:7 NKJVIn episode two, King Kong tries to tempt Henry to disobey his mother, Henry learns that our choice of friends can affect our attitudes and behavior, as well as our relationship with God. Henry wants to follow God's will for his life so he must make some good decisions! “Put away from yourselves the evil person.”  1 Corinthians 5:13In episode three, Henry worries about going to a new school when King Kong entices him to run away. Godzwilla, Captain Flash and Teddy remind Henry that God leads you one step at a time! God's on your side and He wants you to be the best that you can be.  God will help you, even if it's at a new school! Psalm 37:23 says, “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.” In episode four, Henry has a problem: His parents are arguing. So Godzwilla and the other toys, including King Kong, pray the kind of prayer that Jesus taught us to pray in Matthew 6:10, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Then they realized that God's will is PEACE! “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#kids, #storiesforchristiankids, #biblelessonsforkids, #willingandobedient, #christlikecharacterforkids, #obedienceisbetterthansacrifice, #obeygodsword,#followgodsword, #bestronginthelord, #godswill, #thelordsprayer, #peace, #peacefromgod, #fishbytesforkids, #fishbytes4kids, #fishbites4kids, #ronandcarriewebb, #roncarriewebbCinematic (Sting) by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/http://www.twinmusicom.org/

Welcome back! We've all heard them—little phrases that sound wise, comforting, or even spiritual—but they're not true. In this series, we're exposing some of the most common believable lies people buy into about God, life, and faith.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Believable Lie: I'm Too Far Gone for GodThey sound right at first, but when you dig deeper, you realize these lies can actually lead you in the wrong direction.Last time we looked at the lie that “God is a killjoy.” The truth is, God created everything for our joy and good, but within the boundaries of His wisdom. Adam and Eve rejected His definition of good and the result was shame.That brings us to today's believable lie: “I'm too far gone for God.”Maybe you've thought this before:“If He only knew where I've been or what I've done, He would never want me.”Maybe it's your past mistakes—crossing boundaries, addictions, broken relationships.Or maybe it's not even what you did, but what someone else did to you that left you feeling unworthy.The truth is this: No one is too far gone for God.To prove it, let's look at two stories—one from the Old Testament and one from the New Testament. Both reveal God's heart of mercy for people who seemed beyond hope.Story #1: Nineveh (Jonah 3)The city of Nineveh was infamous for its cruelty, violence, idolatry, and immorality. If anyone seemed too far gone, it was them. Yet when Jonah preached judgment, the people repented in humility—and God forgave them. Jonah himself confessed the truth about God: “You are a merciful and compassionate God, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. You are eager to turn back from destroying people.” (Jonah 4:2 NLT).This echoes God's character revealed throughout Scripture—Exodus 34:6-7, Nehemiah 9:17, Psalm 103:8, Joel 2:13, and in the New Testament, 2 Peter 3:9. God does not want anyone destroyed but desires everyone to repent.Story #2: The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-20)In Jesus' parable, the younger son insulted his father, wasted his inheritance, and ended up in utter disgrace. He was convinced he was unworthy of love and hoped only to be a servant. Yet when he returned home, the father ran to him, embraced him, and restored him as a son.The prodigal's story proves that no matter how far you've run, God is watching and waiting for you to come back.The PointThe Ninevites weren't too far gone. The prodigal son wasn't too far gone. And neither are you. Whatever your past, God's love is greater. He wants you to repent, turn back to Him, and receive His mercy.Here's God's honest truth: No one is too far gone for God.

Henry has a problem: His parents are arguing. So Godzwilla and the other toys, including King Kong, pray the kind of prayer that Jesus taught us to pray in Matthew 6:10, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Then they realize that God's will is PEACE! “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 #kids, #biblelessonsforkids, #storiesforkids,#bedtimestoriesforkids, #storiesforchristiankids, #thelordsprayer, #followgodsword, #peace, #peacefromgod, #bestronginthelord, #godswill, #fishbytesforkids, #fishbytes4kids, #fishbites4kids, #ronandcarriewebb, #roncarriewebb Cinematic (Sting) by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/http://www.twinmusicom.org/

“If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.” (Jeremiah 29:13 NLT) This is a go-to scenario for people trying to poke holes in Christian logic: A person from a remote region, who’s never had any exposure to Christianity or the Bible, dies. What will happen to that person? I believe that God will judge us according to the light we have received. We will not be held accountable for what we do not know. That, however, does not excuse us from all responsibility. Otherwise, we might say ignorance is bliss. Ecclesiastes 3:11 tells us that God “has planted eternity in the human heart” (NLT). He has hardwired us to know Him. That means from the day we’re born, we’re on a quest, a search to find meaning and purpose in life. God put that restless desire inside us. We were created in His image. We were born with a soul—and an inner emptiness that only He can fill. And though our internal compass points us toward God, we still go our own way. The apostle Paul wrote in Romans 1:19–20, “They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God” (NLT). Some people may say, “I have my own standards that I live by.” But I would venture to guess that you probably don’t even live up to your own standards. You violate the rules you think are right. Others might say, “I’m a sincere seeker of truth. I just haven’t found what I’m looking for.” If you’re a sincere seeker of truth, I believe that you will find your way to Jesus Christ. The Lord said, “If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me” (Jeremiah 29:13 NLT). God will make Himself real to you if you really want to know Him. Don’t worry so much about the person who’s never heard the gospel. Think about yourself because you have heard the gospel. And knowledge brings responsibility. For the record, here’s the gospel in a nutshell. We have all sinned. We have all fallen short of God’s standards. There is nothing we can do to meet the righteous requirements of God. God loves us so much that He sent His Son Jesus Christ, who was fully God and fully man, to die on the cross for our sin. He bodily rose again from the dead. If we will turn from our sin and put our faith in Christ, we will be forgiven. We can know that we will go to Heaven when we die. And we can find the meaning and purpose we’ve been looking for in this life. That’s the gospel truth. Now that you understand it, you’re responsible for responding to it. Reflection question: How can you make sure that the people around you understand the gospel? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“As surely as I live, says the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of wicked people. I only want them to turn from their wicked ways so they can live. Turn! Turn from your wickedness, O people of Israel! Why should you die?” (Ezekiel 33:11 NLT) How can a loving God send someone to Hell? The short answer is that God doesn’t send anyone to Hell. People send themselves there by the choices they make. The last thing that God wants is for any man or woman uniquely created in His image to spend eternity separated from Him in a place of torment. Hell was not created for people. In Matthew 25:41, Jesus says, “Then the King will turn to those on the left and say, ‘Away with you, you cursed ones, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his demons’” (NLT). Hell was created for the beings who rebelled against God in Heaven and who work to ruin His plan on earth. God doesn’t want anyone to go there. That’s why He says in Ezekiel 33:11, “As surely as I live, says the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of wicked people. I only want them to turn from their wicked ways so they can live. Turn! Turn from your wickedness, O people of Israel! Why should you die?” (NLT). Why do you think God sent Jesus to be murdered in cold blood? Because there was no other way that His perfect holiness and justice could be satisfied. Sin cannot exist in God’s presence. We have all sinned. Hell is the place where God has removed His presence. So, when we die, the only place we can go is to Hell, according to God’s righteous standards. The only way to satisfy those standards and save us from Hell was to send a perfect sacrifice, a sinless person to take the punishment we deserve, suffer and die in our place, and then rise from the dead to conquer death once and for all. God sacrificed His own Son so that we would not have to go to Hell. Everyone who receives Christ as Savior and Lord is given eternal life in Heaven, in God’s presence forever. They are saved from Hell. That is our spiritual reality. Anyone who winds up in Hell will be there because they made the choice to go there. No one will end up in Hell accidentally. Likewise, no one becomes a Christian accidentally. You don’t just wake up one morning and say, “Whoa, I’m a Christian! Praise God! I can’t believe I just said, ‘Praise God.’ I suddenly have this strange desire to read the Bible. It must have happened when I cut through that church parking lot last night.” You become a Christian because you make a choice to believe in Jesus. Those who go to Hell do so because they made a choice to reject Christ. No one goes to Heaven deservingly, and no one goes to Hell unwillingly. If you end up in that place on that final day, you will have no one to blame but yourself. And you will have to practically climb over Jesus to get there. No, friend, you don’t have to go to Hell. God wants you to join Him for all eternity in Heaven. Reflection question: How can you explain the reality of Hell to an unbelieving friend? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Jesus told him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.’” (John 14:6 NLT) You’ve probably heard more than a few objections to the inevitable answer to this question. “How can Christians say that Jesus is the only way to God?” “Are you saying that if someone doesn’t believe in Jesus, then they’re going to Hell?” “Do you understand how narrow-minded that thinking is?” “Why are you so intolerant of other people’s beliefs?” “Why can’t you be more inclusive?” Let’s get one thing straight. The only reason I say that Jesus Christ is the only way to the Father is because Jesus Himself said it. Look again at those words in John 14:6: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (NLT). In Acts 4:12, the apostle Peter put it this way: “There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved” (NLT). Why? Because only Jesus Christ was qualified to bridge the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity. Jesus Christ—not just a good man, but the God-Man—died in our place and took the full wrath of the Father upon Himself because there was no other way that we could settle the debt that we owed God. Only Jesus Christ could conquer sin and death and make it possible for us to live forever with Him. Such exclusivity is hard for a lot of people to embrace. Some say, “I choose to believe that whatever religion you want to follow is fine. As long as you sincerely believe, God will let you into Heaven.” The problem with that reasoning is that Adolf Hitler probably believed in his heart that what he was doing was right. Does anyone want to suggest that his sincere belief should earn him a place in Heaven? Others say, “I don’t believe that Jesus was God. I believe that He was an influential philosopher and a great moral teacher, but nothing more than that.” C. S. Lewis responded to that kind of thinking with these words: “A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic—on a level with the man who says he is a poached egg—or else he would be the Devil of Hell.” Lewis concluded, “You can shut Him up for a fool, you can spit at Him and kill Him as a demon; or you can fall at His feet and call Him Lord and God. But let us not come with any patronising nonsense about His being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to.” Jesus is the only way to God. The Christian faith is built on that truth. Reflection question: What would you say to someone who believes that all paths lead to God? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mokie introduces kids to her best friend, Jesus, and together they help kids understand that they don't have to worry—because they can pray instead! “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 #kids, #storiesforkids, #bedtimestoriesforkids, #biblelessonsforkids, #don'tworryinsteadpray, #takecourage, #peace, #jesusgivesmepeace, #jesusishere, #jesusiswithme, #childrenofgod, #Biblememoryverse, #fishbytesforkids, #fishbytes4kids, #ronandcarriewebb, #roncarriewebb

“Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word.” (Psalm 119:67 NIV) If God is good, why does He allow suffering? Chances are good that you’ve heard—and asked—that question before. You may be asking it now if you’re struggling with health issues. Or if you’ve lost a loved one. Or if your marriage is falling apart. Or if you’re having financial difficulties. Or if you’ve watched a natural disaster unfold. Maybe you’ve personalized the question and asked, “Why did God allow that to happen to me?” Our human intellect and notions of fairness reject the apparent contradiction between a loving God and a world of hate, pain, and misery. The classic statement of the problem goes like this: Either God is all-powerful but not all good and therefore doesn’t stop evil, or He is all good but not all-powerful and therefore can’t stop evil. Whichever way you come down on the issue, the general tendency is to blame God for all the bad things that happen in the world. The reality is that, in a broad sense, sickness, suffering, disabilities, misery, and even death are the results of sin. Not necessarily the results of a personal sin that someone commits, but the results of the existence of sin. You see, God’s original plan was that these bodies of ours would never wear out. They would never wrinkle….I would still have hair on my head. But because sin entered the world, we have aging and diminished abilities. We have disease and death. Bad things happen when people make the wrong choices. We might ask why God didn’t make us so that we couldn’t sin. The answer is that He gave us free will to make our own decisions. In many ways, free will is our greatest blessing and our greatest curse, depending on what we do with it. But God doesn’t want us to love Him in a pre-programmed way. Love isn’t genuine if there’s no other option. God wants us to choose to love Him. The flip side is that we have the option to make the wrong choice. We can choose to reject God and pursue sin. God will make us aware of our wrong choices. He will show us the paths He would have us travel. But He will allow us to do what we choose. In Deuteronomy 30:19–20, He says, “Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life” (NLT). When we choose something other than life, as described in this passage, we open the door to suffering—in our lives and in the world around us. But in His mercy and wisdom, God uses suffering to get our attention and direct us back to Him and the life He offers. The psalmist wrote, “Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word” (Psalm 119:67 NIV). C. S. Lewis said, “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pain: it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” God works through our suffering to remind us how much we need Him. Reflection question: How has God worked through suffering in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.