Podcasts about nlt

“Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.” (Romans 5:1–2 NLT) *Enjoying Pastor Greg's devotional podcast? Let us know what you think with this quick survey!* When we come to Christ, He not only forgives us of our sin, but He also justifies us. The apostle Paul explained justification in his letter to the Romans: “Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us” (Romans 5:1 NLT). Salvation has to do with what takes place in believers’ hearts, but justification has to do with our standing before God. In salvation, God gives us new life, but justification goes beyond that. When God justifies us, He declares us righteous in His sight. “Just-as-if-I’d never sinned” is one way the word justified has been explained. God not only forgives us, but He sees us as if we had never sinned. He removes our sin, and in its position, He places the perfect righteousness of Christ. That’s a difficult concept for a lot of people to grasp. Our human instinct is to remember those who wronged us. We elevate holding grudges to an art form. We like to throw around phrases like, “Revenge is a dish best served cold.” The Bible makes it clear, though, that God has a different way of looking at things. As far as He’s concerned, Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross—the blood He shed there—covers our sins. The apostle John put it this way: “But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin” (1 John 1:7 NLT). The author of Hebrews wrote, “For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22 NLT). And the apostle Paul wrote, “Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord will never count against them” (Romans 4:7–8 NIV). When God looks at believers, He doesn’t see people who have failed Him time and time again. Instead, He sees His Son. And He made His feelings about His Son quite clear in Matthew 3:17: “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased” (NIV). Sometimes we allow our sins to linger in our consciousness long after they’ve been forgiven. They live rent-free in our heads, messing with our self-esteem. In extreme cases, they can play havoc with our spiritual and emotional health. That’s why it’s important to see ourselves as God sees us. Imagine that your checking account is overdrawn, and you owe your bank thousands of dollars. Not knowing what else to do, you go to the ATM, enter your PIN, and discover that you have a balance of five million dollars. Best of all, it’s a legitimate transaction! You did nothing to earn it, but the windfall is yours. God has done something much more meaningful for those who believe in Christ. He has given us righteousness. He has made us justified. Reflection question: How would you explain justification to someone who’s struggling with guilt? 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.

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” (Psalm 23:5 NIV) *Enjoying Pastor Greg's devotional podcast? Let us know what you think with this quick survey!* From the day that we commit our lives to Jesus Christ, everything changes for us. Gone is that ever-present guilt that used to nag us day and night. There is no longer an empty hole deep inside of our soul. In the place of those things, God gives us what the apostle Paul referred to as His “peace, which exceeds anything we can understand” (Philippians 4:7 NLT). God places a new joy in our hearts and gives us the hope of Heaven when we die. But when we commit our lives to Christ, we also gain enemies. That’s what David was talking about when he wrote, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies” (Psalm 23:5 NIV). These enemies want to weaken our commitment to Christ and throw up obstacles to our spiritual growth. The three primary enemies Christians face are the world, the flesh, and the devil. The world is the external enemy. It entices us with temptations, diversions, and false teachings. It points us down paths where God doesn’t want us to go. The flesh is the internal enemy. It plays on our weaknesses, vulnerabilities, and appetites. It tries to convince us that satisfying our own needs and wants should be our highest priority. The devil, who works in and through the world and the flesh, is the infernal enemy. The apostle Peter warned, “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8 NLT). Jesus said the devil “was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44 NLT). This unholy trinity of the world, the flesh, and the devil creates a powerful opposition, especially for new believers. The best strategy to combat it is to nurture an intimate relationship with the Lord, whom David describes as a shepherd in Psalm 23, as we sit at His table. We do that by studying God’s Word, where we find His promises, His wisdom, His will for our lives, and His guidance. And we do it by talking and listening to Him in prayer, keeping the lines of communication open at all times. When we sit at the table of the Lord, we’re satisfied because we know that everything we need is there. We don’t hunger for anything else. I’m not saying that we’ll become temptation-proof. What I am saying is that we won’t be as drawn to temptation as we once were. We’ll see the diversions of the world, the appetites of the flesh, and the schemes of the devil for what they really are: dead ends, worthless enticements, and cheap imitations of the truth. The Lord has set a table before us. We have no reason to fear our enemies. Reflection question: What would sitting at the Lord’s table 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 if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. If we claim we have not sinned, we are calling God a liar and showing that his word has no place in our hearts.” (1 John 1:9–10 NLT) *Enjoying Pastor Greg's devotional podcast? Let us know what you think with this quick survey!* One of the most important aspects of the Christian life is to know what it means to confess our sin. In fact, our very forgiveness hinges on our understanding of the term. The Hebrew word for confess means to acknowledge. In the New Testament, confess could be translated as “to agree with someone” or “to say the same thing as another.” The apostle John used this word in 1 John 1:9 when he said, “But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness” (NLT, emphasis mine). That word confess is essentially saying that if you’ll agree with God about your sin, if you’ll acknowledge it for what it is and not make excuses for it, and if you’ll turn from it, God will forgive you. The problem is that people think they’ve confessed their sin when they haven’t. New believers, people who aren’t used to confessing their sins, may struggle at first. In addition, far too many people believe that to confess their sin is merely to acknowledge their sin. Therefore, when they sin and get caught, they say something to the effect of, “I acknowledge what I did. I confess that sin. That was a bad thing.” And they go out and do it again. And when they get caught again, they say, “I did it again. I confess.” That’s not a true confession. They’re simply recognizing what is obviously sin. Genuine confession means understanding that sin puts distance between you and your heavenly Father. Isaiah 59:2 says, “It’s your sins that have cut you off from God. Because of your sins, he has turned away and will not listen anymore” (NLT). Sin interferes with your ability to recognize God’s will for your life and enjoy the blessings that come with it. Sin also undermines your Christian witness. It gives people a distorted view of Christ and the difference He makes in a person’s life. God wants people to see His Son in you. Your sin keeps them from doing that. The more we understand about the seriousness of sin, the more genuine our confession will be. The Holy Spirit helps us in this regard. Everyone who receives Christ as Savior and Lord has the Holy Spirit inside them. Jesus said the Holy Spirit “will convict the world of its sin” (John 16:8 NLT). He calls out our sin from deep within us and convicts us to confess it. Confession means to see sin for what it is, to be sorry for it, and to turn from it. You must recognize that it’s offensive to the one and only true God and respond accordingly. Are you willing to do that? If so, then God will forgive you and cleanse you from all your wickedness. Reflection question: What’s your biggest obstacle when it comes to confessing sin? 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.

Bible Reading: Psalm 119:27, 159-160; 2 Timothy 3:14-17The sun was just poking its head over the treetops when Savannah and her mother left for a walk in the woods near their new home. "I didn't understand what Dad read in the Bible this morning," Savannah said. "Why can't we just skip the parts of the Bible that don't seem to say anything important?"Mom was about to reply when Savannah spotted some interesting bushes along the path. "Look, Mom. Those are some kind of berry bushes, aren't they?"Mom stopped and peered at the bushes. "I think they might be, but I don't see any fruit on them."Savannah reached out and lifted some of the leaves. "Here! Underneath the leaves.""You're right!" said Mom. "Those are wild blackberries! They'd taste great on our cereal--or just as a snack. How about running back to the house and getting a bucket so we can pick some?"Savannah eagerly ran home and returned with a pail, and she and Mom began to gather the ripe, luscious fruit. "I'm glad your sharp eyes noticed these," said Mom. "I saw the green leaves, but I didn't see what was hidden underneath them." She dumped a handful of berries into the bucket. "Maybe that's the answer to the question you asked a while ago.""You mean about skipping parts of the Bible?" asked Savannah. Mom nodded. "When we read the Bible, we don't always understand every important truth right away--just like I didn't spot those berries. But when we take time to think about what a verse or passage says, it can help us see how it fits into God's story of how He continues to love us even though we sin. Everything in the Bible points to God's gift of Jesus, who became human and died and rose again to save us. Every passage can teach us something about Jesus and our need for Him. That's why we read all the parts of the Bible.""When we get back home, maybe I should read that Bible passage from this morning again," said Savannah."Why don't we read it together?" suggested Mom. "We can eat fruit from this bucket while we look for spiritual fruit in the Bible!" –Judith K. BoogaartHow About You?Are some parts of the Bible hard for you to understand? The Bible is full of poems, stories, and events that all reveal God's faithful love. Each one is important, but some can be difficult to understand on our own. That's why it's important to study the Bible with other Christians and depend on God for help. When you come across something that's confusing, ask God to give you understanding, and ask a trusted adult to help you too.Today's Key Verse:All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. (NLT) (2 Timothy 3:16)Today's Key Thought:Learn from all of the Bible

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” (Ephesians 2:10 NLT) Have you ever had one of those seemingly perfect moments in life when everything just came together? That stunning sunset. Or that beautiful star-filled night. That special moment with someone you love, when you thought to yourself, I always want it to be this way. Of course, it isn’t always that way. Those seemingly perfect moments pass just as quickly as they occur, leaving you wanting more. Along those same lines, maybe you believed that when you reached certain goals in your life, you’d be happy. Maybe when you were single you thought, If only I had a boyfriend or a girlfriend, I’d be happy. So you got yourself a boyfriend or a girlfriend. And then you thought, If only we were engaged, I’d be happy. So you got engaged. And then you thought, If only we were married, I’d be happy. So you got married. And then you thought, If only we had kids, I’d be happy. So you had kids. While there can be happiness in every phase of life, no matter what our circumstances are, fulfillment—genuine, lasting fulfillment—always seems to be a little beyond our reach. Why is that? Because from the day each of us was born, we’ve been on a quest. We were created in the image of God, so we’re aware that there’s more to life than mere existence. There’s purpose. There’s meaning. But they’re not always apparent, so we search for them in moments big and small. The apostle Paul gives us valuable insight into these ideas of purpose, meaning, and fulfillment in Ephesians 2:10. “We are God’s masterpiece” (NLT). We have a very high ceiling—the potential to accomplish some amazing things and experience soul-deep fulfillment. Finding our meaning and purpose begins with the decision to accept Jesus as Savior and Lord. When we do that, God creates “us anew in Christ Jesus” (NLT). He unlocks our potential to “do the good things he planned for us long ago” (NLT). He unleashes us to be change agents in a world desperate for them. Some people try to find purpose in doing good deeds to earn God’s favor. But that’s a dead end. In the two verses that precede Ephesians 2:10, Paul says, “God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it” (NLT). It’s only when we acknowledge that we can never do enough to earn God’s favor that we start to find purpose. The Holy Spirit is our guide. He opens our eyes to the opportunities we have to do good things in gratitude for the matchless gift of salvation that God has given us. The more closely we align our daily lives with what God created us to be, the more we’ll experience the sense of adventure, purpose, fulfillment, and joy that comes from our walk with Christ. Reflection Question: What gives you a sense of purpose and meaning? 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.

Just because the Mets held a team meeting and lost in yet another blowout, it didn't mean National League Town wouldn't try its luck at meeting. Here, we have Jeff Hysen getting together with original co-host Greg Prince to try and figure out why the f-word (frustrating) is so gosh darn prevalent in Mets fans' thoughts these days. NLT has no good answers to the club's pitching and hitting woes, but at least nobody's ERA rose or OPS sagged while this episode was being recorded.

“Sensible people keep their eyes glued on wisdom, but a fool's eyes wander to the ends of the earth. Foolish children bring grief to their father and bitterness to the one who gave them birth.”- Proverbs‬ ‭17‬:‭24‬-‭25‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Bible Reading: Matthew 11:28-30Julian cheered in excitement at the tractor pulling contest. One of the contestants--a friend of Julian's family--revved the engine as his tractor strained to pull the heavy load. It inched along, then gathered speed to the finish line. "He made it!" Julian shouted, and he clapped along with others in the crowd."The next load he has to pull will be heavier," Grandpa said.The driver revved the engine again, and it moved slowly forward. The load behind the groaning tractor was dragged at a snail's pace to the finish line. Julian shot up from his seat and cheered.He grew anxious as he watched the workers add more weights to the next load. The driver powered up the engine, but nothing happened. Again the engine roared, but the load didn't budge. The driver hunched over the wheel as if to coax the tractor into one last try before time was up. Julian felt like he was in the contest himself, and he yelled encouragement as the tractor began to inch forward. Slowly, slowly it went, until at last it reached the finish line. It had moved a heavier load than any other tractor. The crowd went wild.Over hot dogs and pop, Grandpa and Julian talked about the contest. "It made me think about the struggles we have in life," said Grandpa. "Sometimes our loads are almost too heavy for us to pull."Julian nodded, thinking about the hard time he had in reading class at school. He just couldn't read as well as the other kids. After getting his last report card, Julian had gone to his room and cried.Grandpa smiled at him. "Way back when I was your age, I found out that Jesus wants to help us pull heavy loads--the hardships we face in life. So I ask Him to help me whenever I feel like things are just too much. The problems don't always disappear, but they seem lighter when I remember that Jesus, who took the burden of my sin by dying on the cross, wants to help me with any struggles that are weighing me down."Julian smiled back at Grandpa, knowing what he had to do. He would talk to Jesus about his struggle to read. He needed help with his heavy load. –Carolyn E. YostHow About You?Does something in your life seem too heavy to bear? Talk to Jesus about it. He wants to help you with your troubles. Maybe He'll take the burden away--but maybe not. Perhaps He'll simply comfort you and make your burden easier to bear as you trust Him with it. Whenever you feel overwhelmed, ask Him for help and trust that He'll lighten your load. Today's Key Verse:Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT) (1 Peter 5:7)Today's Key Thought:Jesus lightens loads

Proverbs 1:1–7 NLT. These are the proverbs of Solomon, David's son, king of Israel. Their PURPOSE is to teach people wisdom and discipline, to help them understand the insights of the wise. Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will give insight to the SIMPLE, knowledge and discernment to the YOUNG. Let the WISE listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. Let those with understanding receive guidance by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables, the words of the wise and their riddles. Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge, but FOOLS despise wisdom and discipline.   

Proverbs 1:1–7 NLT. These are the proverbs of Solomon, David's son, king of Israel. Their PURPOSE is to teach people wisdom and discipline, to help them understand the insights of the wise. Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will give insight to the SIMPLE, knowledge and discernment to the YOUNG. Let the WISE listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. Let those with understanding receive guidance by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables, the words of the wise and their riddles. Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge, but FOOLS despise wisdom and discipline.

June 29 2025 Sunday Your Words Matter / Week 21 / T. Stacy Hayes #findoutwhoyouare My Vision My vision is to teach the world Who They Are In Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior! To Teach them what the Bible says about them and who they have been made to be in the promises of God's Word. This changed my life years ago and completely transformed me from a person full of doubt, fear and unbelief to a strong confident Christian that knows I can do anything through Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. And I'm determined to teach the world what God has taught and commissioned me to teach and that is His Word.  That commission takes me to jails and detention centers weekly along with other open doors at many churches and ministries that are wanting to teach these important truths to the world. My podcast goes out 6 days a week to help the people I am ministering to grow in the truths that God has taught me for many years now. This podcast is free to all that want to listen and grow strong in who God has made them to be in Christ Jesus their Lord and Savior. Isaiah 53:5  Healing… Matthew 18:19  Agree with God's Word… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Acts 10:34  God is no respecter of persons “But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.” Hebrews 9:11-12 KJV “So Christ has now become the High Priest over all the good things that have come. He has entered that greater, more perfect Tabernacle in heaven, which was not made by human hands and is not part of this created world. With his own blood—not the blood of goats and calves—he entered the Most Holy Place once for all time and secured our redemption forever.” Hebrews 9:11-12 NLT “But [that appointed time came] when Christ (the Messiah) appeared as a High Priest of the better things that have come and are to come. [Then] through the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with [human] hands, that is, not a part of this material creation, He went once for all into the [Holy of] Holies [of heaven], not by virtue of the blood of goats and calves [by which to make reconciliation between God and man], but His own blood, having found and secured a complete redemption (an everlasting release for us).” Hebrews 9:11-12 AMPC “how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.” Hebrews 9:14-15 KJV “Just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit, Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. That is why he is the one who mediates a new covenant between God and people, so that all who are called can receive the eternal inheritance God has promised them. For Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant.” Hebrews 9:14-15 NLT “How much more surely shall the blood of Christ, Who by virtue of [His] eternal Spirit [His own preexistent divine personality] has offered Himself as an unblemished sacrifice to God, purify our consciences from dead works and lifeless observances to serve the [ever] living God? [Christ, the Messiah] is therefore the Negotiator and Mediator of an [entirely] new agreement (testament, covenant), so that those who are called and offered it may receive the fulfillment of the promised everlasting inheritance–since a death has taken place which rescues and delivers and redeems them from the transgressions committed under the [old] first agreement.” Hebrews 9:14-15 AMPC “Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;” Hebrews 10:19-20 KJV “And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven's Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place.” Hebrews 10:19-20 NLT “Therefore, brethren, since we have full freedom and confidence to enter into the [Holy of] Holies [by the power and virtue] in the blood of Jesus, By this fresh (new) and living way which He initiated and dedicated and opened for us through the separating curtain (veil of the Holy of Holies), that is, through His flesh,” Hebrews 10:19-20 AMPC “but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7 KJV “But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7 NLT “But if we [really] are living and walking in the Light, as He [Himself] is in the Light, we have [true, unbroken] fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses (removes) us from all sin and guilt [keeps us cleansed from sin in all its forms and manifestations].” 1 John 1:7 AMPC “by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” Romans 5:2 KJV “Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory.” Romans 5:2 NLT “Through Him also we have [our] access (entrance, introduction) by faith into this grace (state of God's favor) in which we [firmly and safely] stand. And let us rejoice and exult in our hope of experiencing and enjoying the glory of God.” Romans 5:2 AMPC Romans 10:9-10  Salvation… Romans 10:17  Faith in God comes from hearing His Word… Matthew 11:28-30  Jesus'Yoke is Easy… John 3:16  God gave Jesus to pay for our Salvation… God Loves The abortion dr As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Philippians 12:2  Work out your own Salvation… Romans 8:1  No condemnation in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior…  Luke Chapter 15 The Story Of The Prodigal Son… Philippians 4:19  God will supply all your needs let Him… Romans 4:20  Don't Stagger at What God Is Saying In His Word… John 15:5 We can't do anything aside from Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:17  We are new creatures in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… 2 Corinthians 5:21  We are The Righteousness of God In Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Ephesians 2:8  We are Saved by Grace through Faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior… Believe God's Word Above All Opinions God Loves The abortion dr's As Much As He Loves The Babies They Are Killing… Mark 10:29-30  100 Fold Return… Share This Podcast On Your Social Media… Website https://the-prodigalson.com Email tstacyhayes@gmail.com  YouVersion Bible App https://my.bible.comi iOS App https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/prodigal-son/id1450529518?mt=8 …  Android App https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=tv.wizzard.android.prodical  Social Media https://www.facebook.com/The-Prodigal-SON-209069136315959/ https://www.facebook.com/noreligion1511/ https://twitter.com/noreligion1511 https://www.instagram.com/noreligion1511/ https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCPx4s1CLkSYef6mp4dSuU4w/featured

Eph. 2:14-16 [NLT]14 For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall of hostility that separated us. 15 He did this by ending the system of law with its commandments and regulations. He made peace between Jews and Gentiles by creating in himself one new people from the two groups. 16 Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by means of his death on the cross, and our hostility toward each other was put to death.

Most Important Lesson: Matt. 5:20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. Real vs. Fake righteousness: SUPERNATURAL – Luke 16:30-31 (NLT)30 “The rich man replied, ‘No, Father Abraham! But if someone is sent to […]

“And now I make one more appeal, my dear brothers and sisters. Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people.” (Romans 16:17–18 NLT) For years now, we’ve been living in an era focused on sensationalism. I’ve never seen a culture and society so obsessed with gossip, innuendo, and rumors. Just look to social media, and you’ll find all kinds of posts that probe into the personal lives of others. This mentality has saturated the news media, too, where reporters hunt for any juicy piece of gossip they can find. And if someone is charged with a crime today, we often try them in the media before they can enter a court of law where evidence is presented and where they face their accusers. That same skeptical, rush-to-judgment tendency works its way into our personal interactions, too. How many people are struggling with feelings of bitterness or sadness because they’ve been dealt an unjust reputation? How many people feel misunderstood and helpless to do anything about it because others have chosen to believe the worst about them? How many people have had to learn to live with being known for something they didn’t do? Proverbs 6:16–19 tells us that two of the things the Lord hates are “a false witness who pours out lies” and “a person who sows discord in a family” (NLT). People who gossip, spread rumors and innuendo, and slander others fall into these categories. That is, the categories of things the Lord hates. The apostle Paul warned about such people in the passage from Romans 16 above. It comes down to this: The Lord has a better plan for His people. Jesus said, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31 NLT). He wasn’t talking about having a general loving attitude toward others. He was talking about performing tangible acts of love for the people around us. Showing care, concern, and generosity to others in ways that make a difference in their lives. One of the ways we can do that is by refusing to believe the worst about others. The apostle Paul wrote, “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13:7 ESV). That certainly includes believing the best about other people. One of the most meaningful gifts we can offer another person is the benefit of the doubt. That’s not to say we should be naïve or overlook the obvious. But when we lead with a spirit of kindness and optimism, we open the door to deeper, more meaningful interactions. And consider this: Your willingness to believe the best about someone may inspire that person to live up to your expectations. That’s why the writer of Hebrews said, “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24 NLT). Reflection Question: What would believing the best about someone 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.

“Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself.” (Galatians 6:1 NLT) After observing the behavior of some believers, you’d think that they have a verse in their Bibles that says, “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, go and tell as many people as possible. And then set about trying to drive that person away from the faith.” But that’s not what Scripture tells us to do. Jesus addressed the topic in Matthew 18:15–20. If a fellow believer appears to have fallen into sin, our first responsibility is to approach the person in a spirit of love and say, “I heard that you __________. Is that true?” If the person confesses and repents, the matter is settled. Unfortunately, that’s not what usually happens. Instead of confronting the person directly, people whisper behind the person’s back. They spread rumors. And many times, they end up slandering an innocent person. If you’ve ever had that happen to you, you know how painful and destructive it can be. But that’s not the end of the damage. The apostle Paul warned in Galatians 5:9 that a little yeast spreads through a whole batch of dough. In the context of a person suspected of falling into sin, the point is that the fallout from mishandling the situation doesn’t stay isolated between the two people involved. Instead, it works its way through the entire body of believers as people take sides. So dealing in gossip and slander isn’t just cruel, it’s also self-defeating. In 1 Corinthians 12:12, the apostle Paul wrote, “The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ” (NLT). And in verse 26, he reminded believers what this means: “If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad” (NLT). We have a vested interest in the spiritual and emotional well-being of our fellow believers. If one person is damaged by innuendo, gossip, or slander, everyone suffers. If you’re faced with confronting someone suspected of falling into sin, there are a few things to keep in mind. The spirit in which you approach the person is key. In Galatians 6:1, Paul emphasizes the importance of gentleness and humility. “Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself” (NLT). And instead of getting caught up in sordid details, keep your eye on what’s really happening. Remember that the devil wants to turn believers against each other. He’ll attack us from the outside, but many times, when that doesn’t work, he’ll try to infiltrate our ranks and divide us. Jesus said, “Love one another” (John 13:34 NIV). With that love comes responsibility. And sometimes that means stepping out of your comfort zone. But if you love someone enough to seek the truth and confront, when necessary, you will strengthen not only the bond between the two of you, but also the entire body of Christ. Reflection Question: What are some important dos and don’ts for helping someone who has stumbled spiritually? 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.

Presented by Julie Busteed We've explored what it means to practice hospitality in everyday life, but how does that translate to our jobs? Today, there's an entire hospitality industry—hotels, restaurants, travel, and event services. You can even earn a degree in hospitality management! For those working in that field, hospitality is built into the job: welcoming strangers, serving with kindness, offering guidance, and meeting the practical needs of guests. But even if you don't work in that industry, the call to hospitality still applies. In the workplace, it might look like showing patience and grace to coworkers and clients, offering help when someone is overwhelmed, or simply pausing your own agenda to listen. It's that same outward focus—seeing others and responding with care. The greatest example of hospitality is Jesus himself. He consistently met people's practical needs with compassion and love. In Mark 8, he responds to a hungry crowd. “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. If I send them home hungry, they will collapse on the way, because some of them have come a long distance” (Mark 8:2-3). Jesus saw their need—and he acted. He miraculously provided food when none was available. In Mark 1, a man with leprosy begs Jesus for healing. Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. ‘I am willing,' he said. ‘Be healed!' Instantly the leprosy disappeared, and the man was healed (Mark 1:41-42 NLT). Jesus saw the unseen people. He touched the untouchable, welcomed the outcasts, and made space for the overlooked—women, children, lepers, Gentiles, and sinners. Then of course when Jesus washed his disciples' feet at the last supper he beautifully demonstrated how to practice hospitality—to show God's love in practical ways and serve them—all for his glory. Hospitality isn't all about entertaining. It's about seeing others and serving them with love. Whether it's a kind word, a helping hand, or a listening ear, it's all for God's glory. I hope you're encouraged to practice hospitality wherever you are—including your workplace. Because when we serve others, we reflect the heart of Christ.

God's Word isn't just a collection of wise sayings—it's alive, powerful, and confrontational. In this episode, we dive into 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16 to explore how Scripture doesn't merely inform us—it exposes us. From heartfelt conversion to outright rejection, everyone ultimately has to deal with the truth of God's Word. Are you willing to submit to what it reveals in you?--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 --Title: The Power of God's Word (1 Thessalonians 2:13-16)This week: God's Word doesn't just inform you—it exposes you.Whether you believe it or not, the Word of God will reveal what's really going on inside.You can run, but you can't hide from God's Word.The power of God's WordSpecifically, how it can expose youWhether you believe or not, what's really going on inside youI meet with people all the time, and I can't always tell where they standSome of you might say, “I don't know myself!”But here's what we can say for sure: God's Word will eventually expose everyoneYou can run, but you can't hide from God's word. Our key verse actually comes from another book of the BibleHebrews, author unknown (possibly Apollos)Hebrews 4:12 (NLT) 12 For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.God's word draws a line in the sandAre you willing to submit to God? We'll see this in action in our text todayStart with our question:Q. When was the last time God's Word exposed something in you?Reading the Bible, finding something objectionableEx: Kenzie reading the Bible in high school…Or listening to a sermon…1 Thessalonians 2:13a Therefore, we never stop thanking God that when you received his message from us, you didn't think of our words as mere human ideas. You accepted what we said as the very word of God—which, of course, it is. Pay attention to two words hereReceived = paralabontes(Pillar New Testament Commentary) The reception of teachings from a teacher by a student was commonly described using the word employed here (paralabontes)... as in the case of Alexander the Great, who "received from his master [Aristotle] his ethical and political doctrines"...Intellectual assentAccepted = edexasthe(Pillar New Testament Commentary) While accepted (edexasthe) is almost synonymous with received of the previous clause, the verb commonly places more emphasis on personal appropriation. In other words, they solemnly received the sacred message and appropriated it for themselves.Not just head level, but heart levelGut-level beliefIOW Paul is describing their

God's Word isn't just a collection of wise sayings—it's alive, powerful, and confrontational. In this episode, we dive into 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16 to explore how Scripture doesn't merely inform us—it exposes us. From heartfelt conversion to outright rejection, everyone ultimately has to deal with the truth of God's Word. Are you willing to submit to what it reveals in you?--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 --Title: The Power of God's Word (1 Thessalonians 2:13-16)This week: God's Word doesn't just inform you—it exposes you.Whether you believe it or not, the Word of God will reveal what's really going on inside.You can run, but you can't hide from God's Word.The power of God's WordSpecifically, how it can expose youWhether you believe or not, what's really going on inside youI meet with people all the time, and I can't always tell where they standSome of you might say, “I don't know myself!”But here's what we can say for sure: God's Word will eventually expose everyoneYou can run, but you can't hide from God's word. Our key verse actually comes from another book of the BibleHebrews, author unknown (possibly Apollos)Hebrews 4:12 (NLT) 12 For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.God's word draws a line in the sandAre you willing to submit to God? We'll see this in action in our text todayStart with our question:Q. When was the last time God's Word exposed something in you?Reading the Bible, finding something objectionableEx: Kenzie reading the Bible in high school…Or listening to a sermon…1 Thessalonians 2:13a Therefore, we never stop thanking God that when you received his message from us, you didn't think of our words as mere human ideas. You accepted what we said as the very word of God—which, of course, it is. Pay attention to two words hereReceived = paralabontes(Pillar New Testament Commentary) The reception of teachings from a teacher by a student was commonly described using the word employed here (paralabontes)... as in the case of Alexander the Great, who "received from his master [Aristotle] his ethical and political doctrines"...Intellectual assentAccepted = edexasthe(Pillar New Testament Commentary) While accepted (edexasthe) is almost synonymous with received of the previous clause, the verb commonly places more emphasis on personal appropriation. In other words, they solemnly received the sacred message and appropriated it for themselves.Not just head level, but heart levelGut-level beliefIOW Paul is describing their

“But if anyone loves God, he is known by God.” (1 Corinthians 8:3 ESV) Did you know that God is vitally aware of what’s happening in the life of every individual? He is interested in every detail of our lives. Proverbs 15:3 says, “The Lord is watching everywhere, keeping his eye on both the evil and the good” (NLT). It makes sense when you stop to think about it. How could He reward and punish otherwise? God is omniscient. He is always aware of everything that is happening. There is not one single thing that happens on this earth that escapes the attention of God. Proverbs 5:21 says, “For the Lord sees clearly what a man does, examining every path he takes” (NLT). Coming to grips with the realization that God knows everything about everyone—including you—can be either frightening or encouraging. It all depends on your relationship with Him. If your life is not right with Him, if you’re living in sin, then God’s complete knowledge could be rather terrifying. It might be unsettling to think that nothing about your life escapes His attention. But if your life is right with God, then knowing that He’s aware of what’s going on in it, every minute of every day, is a comforting thought. It’s comforting because we know God won’t forget us. We know that we’re not just another face in this massive human sea of some eight billion people. If you’re a Christian who’s walking with God, His complete knowledge guarantees that He’s watching over and taking care of you. His awareness of us is much more personal and meaningful than a 24/7 tracking device. He created us. He wired us. He knows what will give us soul-deep joy and fulfillment. And He directs us to the choices and opportunities that will bring us genuine satisfaction. That’s what the apostle Paul was talking about when he wrote, “But if anyone loves God, he is known by God.” (1 Corinthians 8:3 ESV). The Old Testament prophet Jonah proved that there’s no hiding from God. Remember him? God instructed him to warn Nineveh that judgment was coming. But Jonah hated the Ninevites and was afraid that they would repent and escape judgment. So he hopped on a ship that was sailing away from Nineveh. He tried to escape God. It didn’t work, of course. A storm battered the ship, so Jonah had himself tossed overboard. But even the depths of the sea couldn’t hide him. A fish swallowed him and then vomited him back onshore three days later. Jonah may have turned his back on God, but at no point was Jonah ever out of God’s sight. The better option for anyone who loves God is to embrace His constant vigilance and awareness. We do that by making decisions and conducting ourselves in ways that please Him. That is, to make sure that, when He watches us, He’s pleased with what He sees. When we make the decision to honor and obey Him in the way we live, we can pray, with all sincerity, “Lord, I know You see me always. Please direct me in the paths You would have me go. Thank You for never letting me out of Your sight and for always wanting what’s best for me.” Reflection Question: What does God know about you that no one else does? 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.

Is waiting wearing you down?In this devotional, Megan J. Conner reminds us that God’s delays are not His denials. Drawing from Habakkuk 2:3 and the fruit-bearing seasons of biblical heroes, Megan encourages readers to trust that every season—especially the slow ones—serves a sacred purpose in God’s perfect timing.

“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) The difference between the way God understands the future and the way we understand the future is much like the difference between an artist’s understanding of a blank canvas and our understanding of a blank canvas. The artist looks at the canvas, takes out a pencil, draws a couple of broad strokes, and then looks at it again. We walk up and ask, “What is that?” When the artist tells us, we say, “Well, it doesn’t look like that to us.” But the artist confidently remarks, “It’s coming along. It’s a work in progress. I have a vision, a plan.” The artist is thinking about the end result, even though he’s drawn only a couple of seemingly meaningless strokes. Often, we look at our unfinished lives in the same way we might look at that canvas. Things may not be going as expected. Life may not be progressing according to our schedule. So we say, “The Lord must have forgotten about me. The Lord has abandoned me. It’s over.” But we’re not forgotten or abandoned. And it’s not over. The Lord has a vision for your life. He has a plan. You’re a work in progress. You’re under construction. God isn’t finished with you yet. We see merely the beginning. God sees the end from the beginning. We see a blank canvas. God sees a masterpiece in progress. Take heart. The apostle Paul was quoting Isaiah 64:4 when he 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’” (1 Corinthians 2:9 NLT). We don’t have the tools to see in ourselves what God sees in us. So we must put our faith in Him. That’s what Paul was doing when he wrote in Philippians 1:6, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns” (NLT). We look at the broad strokes of God’s work in our lives and see only randomness. We can’t fathom how they might be connected or built on to create something more substantial. We convince ourselves that there’s no way a work of art, let alone a masterpiece, can come from them. But look at Paul’s words in Romans 8:28: “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (nlt). You may not see how everything in your life can work together for good, but God does. So the wisest course of action is to follow the advice of Proverbs 3:5: “Trust in the lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding” (NLT). Don’t fret if you can’t make sense of the work in progress in your life. Trust the Artist. Reflection question: What evidence do you see of God’s work in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Community, love , and connection is what the world needs!You can order my book “Faith walk to healing” on Amazon For 1:1 Healing purpose coaching sessions click the linktree in my bio. Reflection scripture- Psalm 72:2 NLT

“Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 NLT) If you’ve ever felt scrutinized, as though people were just waiting for you to fail, you’re in good company. King David once wrote of his enemies, “The proud have set a trap to catch me; they have stretched out a net; they have placed traps all along the way” (Psalm 140:5 NLT). But they weren’t about to break his stride. In the very next verse, he wrote, “I said to the Lord, ‘You are my God!’ Listen, O Lord, to my cries for mercy!” (Psalm 140:6 NLT). Instead of worrying about his enemies, David focused on his Lord. He left his worries in the hands of God. As Christians, we should strive to be godly—and not to appear godly to other people. There’s a big difference between the two. The apostle Paul offered a glimpse of what it means to live a godly life in Romans 12:1–2: “And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect” (NLT). Living a godly life starts inside, in the way we think. The transformation Paul was talking about shifts our priorities. It changes the way we see others, the way we approach conflict and hardship, and the things we choose to do. And to his protégé Timothy, Paul wrote, “Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15 NLT). You’ll notice that God’s approval, and not other people’s approval, is what we should be striving for. Of course, when we fall short in our responsibility to others—and we will—we should admit it. When someone points out our mistakes, we should confess, “You’re right. My actions were not consistent with my beliefs. I apologize for that. And I hope I have not changed your opinion of the God whom I follow, because I make mistakes. But God is always true.” As Christians, we must be honest enough to admit when we fail. The apostle James wrote, “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results” (James 5:16 NLT). Life is too short to worry about other people’s opinions. Instead, work hard to present yourself as a living and holy sacrifice so that you might receive God’s approval. You’ll never regret it. Reflection question: What does godliness look like in your daily life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

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

“Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.” (2 Timothy 2:22 NLT) Several years ago, there was a story in the news about a man who had a tree fall on his leg. With no one around to come to his rescue, he took out a pocketknife and proceeded to amputate his leg. Then he made his way up the road until someone picked him up and raced him to help. Amazingly, this man who had a severed leg still had enough presence of mind to tell the driver of the vehicle not to go too fast. He said, “I didn’t come this far to die on the road. Take it easy.” I remember reading that story and thinking, “He did what? How could this guy cut off his leg? I would have laid under the tree and just waited for help.” But the doctors who treated him later said that if he hadn’t taken such a drastic measure, he would have died. He did it to save his life. Sometimes we must take radical, drastic steps to remove ourselves from whatever it is that is hurting us spiritually. That may mean immediate change. It may mean physically getting up and saying, “I’m out of here.” One of God’s greatest gifts to us is the Holy Spirit, who dwells inside every believer. Jesus said the Holy Spirit “will convict the world of its sin” (John 16:8 NLT). The Holy Spirit warns us when we’re in situations that threaten our spiritual well-being. What we do with His warnings is up to us. Ignoring His prompts is like ignoring a fire alarm or a beeping carbon monoxide detector or the check engine light in your car. You might be at that party. Watching that movie. In that relationship. In that group of people. In that setting. Wherever it is, you realize you shouldn’t be there. The Holy Spirit is convicting you. He is saying, “What are you doing here?” Don’t be foolish. Just get up and go. You can make your explanations later, if necessary. The important thing is to remove yourself from the situation immediately. The apostle Paul wrote, “Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11 NLT). The best place to stand firm is a distance away from the devil’s traps and temptations. In other words, maintain the high ground and stay out of the trenches. First Corinthians 10:13 says, “The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure” (NLT). No matter what you’re facing, God has an escape plan, a way out. Do the wise thing and take it. Reflection question: What are some scenarios, situations, and places that you need to run from? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textHey Jam Fam, welcome back to another fun episode with guest Christie Sirota- Jordon!  Christie is an experienced industry professional and has worked in all facets of the the dance world.  A true lover of the arts, Christie has wants to give back to the dance community, and it doing so with her fitness and dance programs.  We hope you enjoy our chat with Christie Sirota-JordonChristie Sirota-Jordon is a seasoned choreographer, educator, and creative director with over 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry. She began teaching and choreographing at the age of 15, developing a unique and versatile style shaped by training with top choreographers across the country—from the East Coast to the heart of L.A.'s commercial dance scene.A Pittsburgh native, Christie has traveled nationally with renowned conventions and organizations such as Commercial Dance Intensive (CDI), Dance Masters of America, Dance Caravan, Professional Dance Teachers Association, N-House Productions, and VIP Dance Competition. She continues to teach master classes and set choreography for studios and dance teams across the U.S.Her performance and choreography credits span high-profile projects including Las Vegas Fashion Week, Latin music legend Juan Luis Guerra, Disney's boyband NLT, dance-pop group Taxi Doll, and the popular fitness program Hip Hop Abs. Christie is also a regional trainer for The BodyBar(re) Fitness Franchise and teaches “conditioning and cross-training for dancers.” Christie's career has transitioned into other facets of the entertainment industry including creating & directing events. She currently serves as a National Director for VIP Dance Competition, co-producing and overseeing events nationwide. In 2018, she founded 412 The Intensive in Pittsburgh, a program designed to empower young dancers through high-level training, artistic exploration, and career preparation. The program has since expanded to Chicago with the launch of 312 The Intensive, alongside a growing suite of mentorship programs.These mentorship initiatives offer dancers deeper, more personal support—focusing not just on technical growth, but also on confidence, clarity, mental wellness, and mapping out next steps in their dance journeys.Now, with two decades in the industry, Christie is partnering and preparing to launch her latest program geared toward college-aged dancers looking to break into the entertainment world. Her mission is to redefine what it means to be a freelance artist—shifting the narrative from "starving artist" to confident, thriving artist.For more information on The Intensive, go to: www.theintensivedance.com Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

June 22, 2025Pastor Scott PolingOther Scripture used: Ecclesiastes 9:12; Proverbs 10:7; Ecclesiastes 9:4-6; 1 Samuel 2:6; Job 1:21b; Psalm 139:16; Job 14:5; Ecclesiastes 3:1-2a; Matthew 13:41-43; Matthew 25:41; Matthew 25:46; Revelation 20:11-15; Hebrews 9:27; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Luke 16:22a; Psalm 23:6b; John 14:1-2; Revelation 14:13; Revelation 21:3b-5; Hebrews 11:10; Revelation 21:10-12, 14, 18-19a, 21-23; Ecclesiastes 12:7; Job 19:26-27; Psalm 17:15; Matthew 5:8; 1 Corinthians 13:12a; Revelation 22:4a; Psalm 116:15; Philippians 1:21, 23b; Psalm 90:12; Matthew 5:4; Romans 12:15; 1 Thessalonians 4:13; Ecclesiastes 7:4 (NLT); Psalm 34:18; Psalm 147:3; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4; 2 Corinthians 7:9-11a; Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4a; Proverbs 17:22; Proverbs 15:13; Ecclesiastes 7:6; Ecclesiastes 2:1-3a, 4-9a; 10a; 11 Main Points: Death and Grieving is Better Your Deathday is BETTER than your Birthday Mourning is BETTER than Feasting Grief is BETTER than Laughter Mourning is BETTER than Pleasure

Notes: 1. We were never meant to walk our faith journey alone. 2. Mentor: A trusted guide, teacher, or counselor who invests their time, wisdom, and experience into someone else's growth and development. They serve as a source of encouragement, accountability, and insight, helping others navigate challenges and discover their potential. 3. Isolation is the devil's ground of manipulation. o 2 Timothy 2:1-2 (NKJV) o 1 Corinthians 11:1 (NKJV) 4. Why You Need a Mentor: For wisdom You Haven't Lived Yet. o Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NKJV) 5. Why You Need a Mentor: Correction in Love. o Proverbs 27:6 (NLT) 6. Why You Need a Mentor: Encouragement for the Journey. o Psalm 78:4 (NLT) 7. Why You Need a Mentor: Accountability for Growth. o Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV) 8. Who's sharpening you? Who's helping you see blind spots and calling out the anointing of God in you? 9. When you understand the value of a mentor, it results in you becoming a mentor to others. 10. Mentorship doesn't stop with receiving—it continues with giving. 11. Jesus is The Ultimate Mentor. 12. Jesus didn't just give commands—He invited people into relationship. Need Prayer? Send your prayer requests to: journeychurcheva.com/prayer To give to Journey: journeychurcheva.com/give

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

(Bilingual) このメッセージではモンティー牧師が「なぜ、赦したくないときでも赦さなければいけないの？」について以下の３つのポイントから話します。ディスカッション用の質問はノートの最後に確認できます。In this message Ps Monty talks about “WHY MUST I FORGIVE WHEN I DON'T WANT TO?” in these 3 points:Check the questions for discussion at the end of the note. Matthew 6:9-13 NIV / マタイ 6:9-13 ERVColossians 2:13-14 NLT / コロサイ 2:13-14 ERVMatthew 6:14-15 NLT / マタイ 6:14-15 ERVMatthew 6:12 NIV / マタイ 6:12 ERVMatthew 18:21-22 NLT / マタイ 18:21-22 ERV1.WE ARE FORGIVEN 私たちは赦されている2.FORGIVENESS IS NOT FOR THEM. IT'S FOR ME 赦しは相手のためではなく、自分のためである3.CLEAN HEART BRINGS PERSONAL PEACE クリーンハートは、心の平安をもたらすQUESTIONS(質問) : ・Why do you think Jesus includes forgiveness in the Lord's Prayer?イエスが「主の祈り」に赦しを入れたのは、なぜだと思いますか？・How does remembering that God forgave all our sins (Colossians 2:13-14) help us forgive others?神様が私たちのすべての罪を赦してくれたことを思い出すと、どのように人を赦しやすくなりますか？（コロサイ 2:13-14）・What does Matthew 6:14-15 teach us about the connection between forgiving others and receiving forgiveness?マタイ6:14-15から、他の人を赦すことと自分自身の赦しを受け取ることの関係性について、何が学べますか？・How does unforgiveness affect our peace and heart?赦さない心は、自分の平安や心にどんな影響を与えると思いますか？・What helps you personally to forgive when it feels really hard?赦すのが難しいと感じる時に、あなたを助けてくれたことはありますか？ Connect with us:Web: mylifehouse.comInstagram: instagram.com/lifehouseglobal/Facebook: facebook.com/lifehouseglobalVideo Messages: ビデオメッセージ: youtube.com/LifehouseTokyoOther Podcasts:Want to listen to our messages in other languages?Lifehouse Messages (English): https://lifehousemessages.captivate.fm/listenLifehouse Hong Kong (Cantonese & English): https://lifehousehongkong.captivate.fm/listen

Tools to help you love yourself authentically!You can purchase my book “Faith walk to healing” on Amazon.Schedule a “Healing purpose coaching” session by clicking the linktree in my bio. Reflection scripture- Mark 12:31 NLT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Philippians 3 (NLT)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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