Podcasts about nlt john

God is bigger than whatever you're facing in life right now. But not only is He all-powerful, but very loving. In this message, Pastor Greg Laurie teaches on God's deep love for you, faith in the storm, and much more. Notes: Focus verse - 1 John 4 There will be more false prophets and false messiahs in the last days. “Don’t believe every spirit. Test them, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”1 John 4:1 The bible speaks of the spiritual battle we are engaged in. The bible tells us, “To take up the whole armor of God.” Hebrews 13:2 Read 1 John 4:1–3 #1 We are in a spiritual war. Antichrist will be a real person, a world leader; he will deceive the world. John was refuting Gnosticism. Gnostics believed salvation came through “hidden spiritual knowledge,” not Christ. To be a Christian, you must believe that Jesus was born of a virgin and was God among us.He was fully God and fully man and He died on the cross for our sins.He bodily rose again three days later, and He will come again. The purpose of 1 John was so we could know God,and so you could know you have eternal life. I have written this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God,so that you may know you have eternal life.1 John 5:13 (NLT) John uses the word ginosko for 'know'.John is saying, “there is no secret knowledge, you can know this now.” #2 God is bigger and greater than everyone and everything.1 John 4:4 God is greater than Satan, greater than sin, greater than your problem. A. Moses at the Red SeaGod said, “I will fight for you, you need only to be still.”Exodus 14:14 B. David and GoliathGoliath was big, but God was bigger. C. The disciples on the Sea of GalileeJesus was bigger than the storm. #3 If we really know God, we will love others.1 John 4:7–11 #1 God is light.1 John 1:1–2:2 #2 God is love.1 John 2:3–4:21 #3 God is life.1 John 5 Light and love are inseparable, as are truth and grace. Light exposes darkness.Love reaches out to the people in darkness. #4 God’s love is greater than our worst fears.I John 4:18 This is simply having the confidence that you are loved and forgiven by God.He lovingly will guide your life and one day welcome you to heaven. If you are living in fear, especially fear of judgement,you have not yet grasped what it is to be loved by God. Jesus absorbed God’s wrath for you. #5 God will never stop loving you.Romans 8:38–39 Fears change with the passing of time. God has something to say to us at every stage of life. #6 Our love for God is a response to God’s love for us.1 John 4:19 God’s love is what draws us to Him. We’re remembering that love moved in, and fear had to move out. --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

God is bigger than whatever you're facing in life right now. But not only is He all-powerful, but very loving. In this message, Pastor Greg Laurie teaches on God's deep love for you, faith in the storm, and much more. Notes: Focus verse - 1 John 4 There will be more false prophets and false messiahs in the last days. “Don’t believe every spirit. Test them, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”1 John 4:1 The bible speaks of the spiritual battle we are engaged in. The bible tells us, “To take up the whole armor of God.” Hebrews 13:2 Read 1 John 4:1–3 #1 We are in a spiritual war. Antichrist will be a real person, a world leader; he will deceive the world. John was refuting Gnosticism. Gnostics believed salvation came through “hidden spiritual knowledge,” not Christ. To be a Christian, you must believe that Jesus was born of a virgin and was God among us.He was fully God and fully man and He died on the cross for our sins.He bodily rose again three days later, and He will come again. The purpose of 1 John was so we could know God,and so you could know you have eternal life. I have written this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God,so that you may know you have eternal life.1 John 5:13 (NLT) John uses the word ginosko for 'know'.John is saying, “there is no secret knowledge, you can know this now.” #2 God is bigger and greater than everyone and everything.1 John 4:4 God is greater than Satan, greater than sin, greater than your problem. A. Moses at the Red SeaGod said, “I will fight for you, you need only to be still.”Exodus 14:14 B. David and GoliathGoliath was big, but God was bigger. C. The disciples on the Sea of GalileeJesus was bigger than the storm. #3 If we really know God, we will love others.1 John 4:7–11 #1 God is light.1 John 1:1–2:2 #2 God is love.1 John 2:3–4:21 #3 God is life.1 John 5 Light and love are inseparable, as are truth and grace. Light exposes darkness.Love reaches out to the people in darkness. #4 God’s love is greater than our worst fears.I John 4:18 This is simply having the confidence that you are loved and forgiven by God.He lovingly will guide your life and one day welcome you to heaven. If you are living in fear, especially fear of judgement,you have not yet grasped what it is to be loved by God. Jesus absorbed God’s wrath for you. #5 God will never stop loving you.Romans 8:38–39 Fears change with the passing of time. God has something to say to us at every stage of life. #6 Our love for God is a response to God’s love for us.1 John 4:19 God’s love is what draws us to Him. We’re remembering that love moved in, and fear had to move out. --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This new sermon series, all about the Good News, focuses on the core message of Christianity: the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the importance of why he died on the cross for us. Over the course of several weeks, the series delves into the transformative power of God's love and grace as revealed through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. The series emphasizes that the good news is not just a message of salvation, but one that speaks to every area of life, bringing hope, restoration, and purpose. Welcome to Relevant Church Live, the online campus of Relevant Church located in Daytona Beach, Florida. We pray that through this service you find your place, reveal your purpose, and unlock your potential! We pray this message blesses you and gives you the strength you need to do and be all that God has called you to do and be! Leave a comment below letting us know how this message impacted you today, we'd love to chat with you! #RelevantChurch #GoodNews #ChristIsTheGoodNews #Christ #PastorChrisSarno #OnlineChurch #RelevantChurchDaytonaBeach #Church #ChurchOnline #RelevantChurchFlorida -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ways to Give: Text to Give: Text your amount to 386-968-1103 Online Giving: Visit our website http://www.relevantfl.org/giving to give via debit, credit, or ACH Mail It In: Send gift Via USPS to 920 Beville Rd. Daytona Beach, FL 32114 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Stay Connected: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @RelevantChurch Relevant Church Website: https://www.relevantfl.org/ Relevant Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevant_fl/ Relevant Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RelevantFL Relevant Church TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relevant_fl?_t=8mNFjdYMYoh&_r=1 Relevant Church App: https://apps.apple.com/app/id1615804850?fbclid=IwAR3aHqo_6kr8Tzd_JK6xihjfJkVk6j7-iqITDj1u1wFicDLn6g6C29gL3LY Rkidz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rkidzfl Relevant Youth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevantflyouth/ Relevant Church Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6nUtPIkecEehfstUWWPIVU?si=QBMEtu85SyuU3FxRM1X7lg&nd=1 Pastor Chris Sarno's Website: https://www.chrissarno.tv/ Chris Sarno App: http://www.chrissarno.tv/app -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 8:9-11 1 Corinthians 12:27 Genesis 2:18 (NLT) Psalm 92:13 Romans 12:5 (TPT) Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV) Psalm 92:13 (NIV) Acts 2:42–47 Matthew 18:20 Acts 2:42 Proverbs 27:17 1 Corinthians 12 John 13:35 Ephesians 4:16 (NLT) 1 Corinthians 12:27 Ecclesiastes 4:12 Hebrews 10:24-25 1 Peter 5:8 (NIV) Romans 12:4-5 (NLT) Hebrews 3:13 (NLT) John 17:20-23 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunday, April 27th 2025 Pastor Roxanne Dwyer Relevant Church Good News | Week 3 | Sunday, April 27th 2025 | Pastor Roxanne Dwyer | Relevant Church

Bible Reading: John 15:1-5; Galatians 5:22-23It was a sunny, warmer-than-normal February afternoon. "It's a perfect day to prune the muscadines!" Dad announced.Cole and Ella threw on their warm clothes and met Mom and Dad outside. Dad hooked the trailer up to the tractor while Mom got the pruning tools. Then she and the kids climbed into the trailer while Dad took the wheel.As they rode down to the vineyard, Cole asked, "Why do we prune the muscadines every year?" "Yeah," Ella agreed. "We're cutting back the vines. Won't that mean fewer grapes?""Actually, the old shoots just take food away from the main vine," Mom explained. "They cause the vines to produce less fruit.""So we prune them so they'll produce more muscadines," said Cole.Dad pulled the tractor up to the first row. He and Mom began snipping away at the old vines while Ella and Cole collected the cuttings to make wreathes later.After a successful day of work, everyone gathered in the living room for devotions. Ella paused her wreath-making as Cole handed Dad the Bible.Dad flipped to a page and read John 15:2. "He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.""That's what we did today!" said Ella. "We pruned the muscadines so they'll bear more fruit."Mom nodded. "But the Lord has to prune us sometimes too.""What do you mean?" Cole asked."Well, sometimes there are things in our lives that the Lord has to cut away, such as sinful patterns or unhealthy attitudes. This process can be painful, but if we allow the Lord to prune us, we can be certain that it will help us grow in our relationship with Jesus, our Vine. We can't grow spiritual fruit by ourselves, which is why we need the Holy Spirit to prune us. Then our lives will overflow with spiritual fruit as we shine the love of Jesus to others.""I want to be like a well-pruned muscadine vine," said Cole."Me too!" Ella exclaimed. –Lisa FullerHow About You?Have you ever seen a plant being pruned? Maybe you've seen your parents trim bushes or workers cut dead branches off trees. This is what the Holy Spirit does to us. When we trust Jesus as our Savior, God gives us the Holy Spirit to transform our lives and give us the ability to produce spiritual fruit. As He prunes us by helping us turn away from sin, we produce fruit such as love, peace, kindness, gentleness, and other character traits that demonstrate God's love to others. Today's Key Verse:He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. (NLT) (John 15:2)Today's Key Thought:Let God prune you

“But Jesus said to Peter, ‘Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup of suffering the Father has given me?’” (John 18:11 NLT) John 18 tells the story of Jesus’ arrest. Keep in mind that John was writing his Gospel decades after the other three were written. The events in the garden and the trials that followed already had been covered in detail by Matthew, Mark, and Luke. And those details were well known in John’s day. That may explain why John doesn’t offer as many specifics in his account. The fact that Jesus’ enemies brought armed soldiers to arrest Him showed that, despite their years of plotting against Him, they still didn’t understand Him. He refused every effort to make Him king. He had no political aspirations. He never encouraged rebellion among His followers. And He wasn’t a fugitive. He frequently taught in the temple, where the religious leaders spent most of their time. They could have arrested Him without incident any time they wanted. (Theoretically, of course. The reality is that they couldn’t have arrested Him outside of God’s timetable, not until Jesus’ “time had come”—which it had, in the garden.) And if anyone were prone to violence, it was the religious leaders, who several times picked up rocks to stone Jesus because they refused to believe the truth of His words. It may not have appeared that way in the confusion of the moment, but Jesus was in control of the situation. As His enemies approached, He stepped forward to identify Himself so that none of the disciples would be harmed. And that should have been the end of it. But Peter failed to read the room. He boldly drew his sword to “save” Jesus and . . . cut off the right ear of an unarmed slave. Oops. Jesus told Peter to put away his sword and reminded him that what was happening was God’s plan. In Matthew’s version of the story, Jesus said, “Don’t you realize that I could ask my Father for thousands of angels to protect us, and he would send them instantly?” (Matthew 26:53 NLT). Jesus allowed Himself to be arrested because it set in motion the events that would lead to salvation. There was nothing just about Jesus’ trials. The verdict was a foregone conclusion. The high priest Caiaphas had already decided that Jesus needed to die for the people—that is, so the Roman government wouldn’t crack down on Jewish religious practices (see John 11:49–53). John was the disciple who accompanied Peter to the high priest’s residence, where Jesus was being tried. Since John knew the high priest, he was able to get past the gate and into the courtyard. But then he had to convince the woman watching the gate to let Peter in too. “The woman asked Peter, ‘You’re not one of that man’s disciples, are you?’ “‘No,’ he said, ‘I am not’” (verse 17 NLT). Inside the courtyard, Peter warmed himself by a fire. Twice more, he was asked if he was Jesus’ disciple. Twice more, he said no. This was a total of three denials, just as Jesus had predicted hours earlier. — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wedding at Cana- Goin-Burgess Isaiah 62:1-5 (NLT) John 2:1-11

The Wedding at Cana- Dixon Isaiah 62:1-5 (NLT) John 2:1-11

“In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1 NLT) John wastes no time in establishing Jesus’ identity. The apostle begins his Gospel with the same wording Moses used in Genesis 1:1 to show that God existed before creation. John’s point is that Jesus, too, existed before the world was created. Not only was He with God at the beginning, but He also was God. Jesus is the second person of the Trinity—that is, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Jesus gave life and light to creation. And when the people who received life turned their backs on Him to pursue their own sinful ways, Jesus did something so amazing that John can barely find the words to do it justice. Jesus, God Himself, entered the world He created. He squeezed His infinite presence into a small container of flesh. He made Himself susceptible to pain, weakness, sorrow, and rejection. He lived among us. He humbly, faithfully, and lovingly served the people He created. John refers to Him as the Word because He embodied everything that God the Father wanted to communicate to us. Everything Jesus said and did reveals something about God. Very few people recognized Him as God, even though the Jewish people of His day were waiting for the Messiah, the Son of God. The problem was that they’d already made up their minds about what the Messiah would be like and what He would do. And Jesus didn’t meet their expectations. So they rejected Him. And the ones who led the rejection were the ones who should have recognized Him first: the Jewish leaders of Israel. Of course, God anticipated that people wouldn’t recognize His Son. So He sent John the Baptist to announce His coming. And He gave John the Baptist a sign so that he would recognize Jesus. When John the Baptist saw a dove descend on Him, he knew Jesus was the Chosen One. That’s why he was able to confidently point to Jesus and announce, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (verse 29) Still, most people—including the Jewish religious leaders—refused to recognize the truth. The leaders even sent a delegation to John the Baptist to ask if he was the Messiah. All the while, John the Baptist kept pointing to Jesus. While he was standing with two of his own disciples, John the Baptist saw Jesus and said, “Look! There is the Lamb of God!” The two disciples immediately left John the Baptist to follow Jesus. Two thousand years later, this same scenario is still being played out. People still refuse to recognize the truth about Jesus because He doesn’t fit their idea of what the Son of God should be. And those of us who do recognize and follow Him still have the opportunity and responsibility to say, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Experience The Gifts of Christmas Sermon 3: Experience The Gift of Joy “You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy.” 1 Peter 1:8 (NLT) “ 11 Let the heavens be glad, and the earth rejoice! Let the sea and everything in it shout his praise! 12 Let the fields and their crops burst out with joy! Let the trees of the forest sing for joy 13 before the Lord, for he is coming!” Psalm 96:11–13 (NLT) Anticipate Joy “but the angel reassured them. “Don't be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. 11 The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!'” Luke 2:10–11 (NLT) “The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them.” Luke 2:20(NLT) Recognize Joy “When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! 11 They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Matthew 2:10–11 (NLT) “Dear brothers and sisters,[a] when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.” James 1:2–3 (NLT) Choose Joy Choose Gratitude: “ Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 (NLT) Choose to Obey: “I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” John 15:11 (NLT) John 15:10 Choose to Abide: John 15 Discussion Questions: Would you describe your feelings about Christmas as “filled with joy”? What is keeping you from experiencing joy this Advent season? Between gratitude, obedience and abiding in God's love, which is hardest for you to remember and do? How can you make time this week to practice this and make room for joy? For more information about Middle River Assembly of God visit https://middleriverag.org/ To help support the mission of Middle River Assembly of God, please go to our new giving platform https://tithe.ly/give?c=4877442 CCLI Copyright License # 1013363 CCLI Streaming License # 20006236 Thank you for your support. Links Website Facebook Twitter Instagram This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

We all love to receive gifts. As a man, I would say that two of the best gifts I have received in my life would be my wife and our kids. The ABSOLUTE greatest gift I have ever received is Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. Jesus truly is the BEST gift! John‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬ ‭NLT‬‬ ‭‭ Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭15‬-‭17‬ ‭NLT ‭‭ Hebrews‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭ESV ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭147‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭NLT‬‬ John 1. 1 - 4 NLT  John 1. 14 NLT ‭‭ Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬  Matthew‬ ‭1‬:‭21‬-‭23‬ ‭NLT‬‬ ‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭NLT‬‬ ‭‭ John‬ ‭14‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭NLT  1 Thessalonians‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭NLT‬‬ ‭‭Revelation‬ ‭22‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭NLT

We all love to receive gifts. As a man, I would say that two of the best gifts I have received in my life would be my wife and our kids. The ABSOLUTE greatest gift I have ever received is Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. Jesus truly is the BEST gift! John‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬ ‭NLT‬‬ ‭‭ Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭15‬-‭17‬ ‭NLT ‭‭ Hebrews‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭ESV ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭147‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭NLT‬‬ John 1. 1 - 4 NLT  John 1. 14 NLT ‭‭ Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬  Matthew‬ ‭1‬:‭21‬-‭23‬ ‭NLT‬‬ ‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭NLT‬‬ ‭‭ John‬ ‭14‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭NLT  1 Thessalonians‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭NLT‬‬ ‭‭Revelation‬ ‭22‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭NLT

Bible Reading: John 6:5-11Maria burst into the kitchen, tears streaming down her face. "I'm a terrible dancer!" she cried. "I'll never be a great ballerina. Everyone else in the class can grand jeté, but not me. I'm terrible. I quit!"Mom set a lid on a simmering soup pot. "But you love ballet, and you're performing in the Christmas celebration at church next week.""Not anymore," said Maria. "Trust me, no one wants to see me dance. I'd probably ruin the whole show."Mom turned toward the stove and took the lid off the pot. "Do you see this vegetable stew? I'm taking it to church tomorrow for the weekly lunch for the homeless." Mom shook her head. "The problem of homelessness really bothers me. I'd like to feed all the homeless people in the city. Do you think this stew can do that?""No way," said Maria. "It's a big pot, but it's not that big."Mom picked up the pot and walked toward the sink. "I can't feed everyone? Then I give up!" She tilted the pot over the sink."Stop, Mom!" cried Maria. "No one expects you to feed everyone."Mom smiled and set the pot back on the stove. "That's right. This stew is my five loaves and two fish."Maria glanced at the stew. "I thought it was potato and carrot."Mom laughed. "When Jesus fed the five thousand, He used a boy's lunch--five loaves and two fish. When I see myself in that story, I'm not Jesus. I don't perform miracles! Instead, I'm the boy. I have only small gifts to give Jesus, but He can use them to do something great."Maria looked up. "Like my dancing?""What do you think?""Well, I do love ballet," Maria admitted. "I've loved to dance since I was little.""God gave you that love for dance," said Mom. "It's a gift you can give back to Him."Maria smiled. "Okay, I'll stick with it. Even if I'm never a famous ballerina, I can still use my dancing to glorify God." She pirouetted around the kitchen table and kissed Mom on the cheek. "I'll trust Jesus to use my loaves and fish to make this a Christmas celebration to remember!"–Jennifer DillardHow About You?Do you ever feel like your gifts aren't good enough? Do you want to do big things but feel like your talents are too small? Remember that God gave each of us the gifts we need to help Him bring about His kingdom on earth. Trust Him to guide you in using your gifts for His purpose, knowing they are good enough for Him.Today's Key Verse:Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks to God, and distributed them to the people. Afterward he did the same with the fish. (NLT) (John 6:11)Today's Key Thought:Your gifts are sufficient for God

Christmas is the time we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. He became Immanuel, God with us. Jesus came to die for our sins—He was born to die. This episode will discuss two questions: Why did Jesus come to die, and why did He need to die? This episode answers those questions by discussing the following: The Eternal Nature of Jesus: Jesus existed before Christmas.  The Purpose of Christmas:  The mission of Jesus went beyond birth; He came to save us from our sins by dying for us.  Why did Jesus need to die? Romans 3:23 tells us all have sinned, and Romans 6:23 says the consequence is death. We needed a Savior. Jesus, sinless and perfect, offered Himself to cleanse us of our sins. Verses to Reflect On: Isaiah 53:5-6 NKJV Hebrews 2:14 NLT John 10:17-18 NASB 2 Corinthians 5:21 NASB 1 John 1:5-9 NASB Romans 10:9 NASB Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV John 3:16 NASB Other resources: Hope Gathering: Helping widows find help and healing in Christ-centered communities

Bible Reading: Psalm 113:4-6; John 1:1-3, 14; Philippians 2:5-8"Okay, everybody, squat down so you can see," said the forest ranger to the students. Davis and his friend Hudson moved closer to see what the ranger was pointing to. The ranger picked up a piece of bark lying in the dirt, and a bunch of little bugs scrambled to hide. The ranger grabbed one of them, and it rolled up into a tiny ball in his hand."This is a pill bug," the ranger said, rolling it around in his hand. "When it gets scared, it rolls into a perfect ball, like an armadillo." He passed the bug around the group. "It's also called a roly poly bug, but it's not really a bug at all. It's a crustacean, like lobsters and crabs and crayfish. It lives in wet places and uses gills to breathe.""That's so cool," Davis said as he held the bug in his palm.Hudson turned to the ranger. "How do you know all this?""Well, it takes years of studying!" said the ranger with a laugh. He bent down to look under another piece of wood. "You have to look at them closely." He picked up another bug. "They're very small, and they like to hide. You have to get down to their level to interact with them." He put the bug down, and it scurried away. "Fast little guy," remarked a teacher standing nearby."Well, it does have seven pairs of legs!" said the ranger. He directed the students to turn up some logs on their own."Wow, that ranger sure knows a lot about bugs!" Hudson said to Davis as they lifted a log to reveal several bugs and critters scuttling in the mud."Yeah," said Davis. "It reminds me of something we talked about in church last week.""You talked about bugs in church?" asked Hudson in surprise. Davis laughed. "No, about God. Jesus came down from heaven to be on our level. He became one of us so He could save us from sin and give us eternal life. Even though He's so huge and mighty, He cares about us and understands everything we go through."Hudson smiled thoughtfully as he bent down to take a closer look at the bugs they had found.–Jonathan BakerHow About You?How small or unimportant do you think you seem to God? Probably a lot smaller than a bug seems to us. But God knows everything about you and cares about what's happening in your life. He loves us all so much that Jesus left His high throne in heaven to be with us on earth and save us from our sins. Rest in the fact that God sees you, loves you, and cares about every teeny detail in your life.Today's Key Verse:The Word [Jesus] became human and made his home among us. (NLT) (John 1:14)Today's Key Thought:Jesus came down to our level

Bible Reading: Psalm 113:4-6; John 1:1-3, 14; Philippians 2:5-8"Okay, everybody, squat down so you can see," said the forest ranger to the students. Davis and his friend Hudson moved closer to see what the ranger was pointing to. The ranger picked up a piece of bark lying in the dirt, and a bunch of little bugs scrambled to hide. The ranger grabbed one of them, and it rolled up into a tiny ball in his hand."This is a pill bug," the ranger said, rolling it around in his hand. "When it gets scared, it rolls into a perfect ball, like an armadillo." He passed the bug around the group. "It's also called a roly poly bug, but it's not really a bug at all. It's a crustacean, like lobsters and crabs and crayfish. It lives in wet places and uses gills to breathe.""That's so cool," Davis said as he held the bug in his palm.Hudson turned to the ranger. "How do you know all this?""Well, it takes years of studying!" said the ranger with a laugh. He bent down to look under another piece of wood. "You have to look at them closely." He picked up another bug. "They're very small, and they like to hide. You have to get down to their level to interact with them." He put the bug down, and it scurried away. "Fast little guy," remarked a teacher standing nearby."Well, it does have seven pairs of legs!" said the ranger. He directed the students to turn up some logs on their own."Wow, that ranger sure knows a lot about bugs!" Hudson said to Davis as they lifted a log to reveal several bugs and critters scuttling in the mud."Yeah," said Davis. "It reminds me of something we talked about in church last week.""You talked about bugs in church?" asked Hudson in surprise. Davis laughed. "No, about God. Jesus came down from heaven to be on our level. He became one of us so He could save us from sin and give us eternal life. Even though He's so huge and mighty, He cares about us and understands everything we go through."Hudson smiled thoughtfully as he bent down to take a closer look at the bugs they had found.–Jonathan BakerHow About You?How small or unimportant do you think you seem to God? Probably a lot smaller than a bug seems to us. But God knows everything about you and cares about what's happening in your life. He loves us all so much that Jesus left His high throne in heaven to be with us on earth and save us from our sins. Rest in the fact that God sees you, loves you, and cares about every teeny detail in your life.Today's Key Verse:The Word [Jesus] became human and made his home among us. (NLT) (John 1:14)Today's Key Thought:Jesus came down to our level

You may have heard pastors or leaders tell you to read the Bible, pray more, and let God speak, but how do we actually do that? This week, Pastor Jon Chasteen continues our "Church-ianity" sermon season with a teaching on lectio divina, an ancient practice for praying with Scripture. We pray that this message and exercise are insightful and beneficial to you in your own walk with Christ!Scripture references: Mark 11:15-17 (NLT) Hebrews 4:12 (NLT) John 10:27-30 (NLT)   Connect With Us: To learn more about Victory Church and to get connected, visit us at https://victory.church/   Worship Gathering Times: To see locations & worship gathering times, visit https://victory.church/locations/   Prayer: We believe in praying big prayers to a big God and expecting big results. If you're in need of prayer, our team would be honored to pray with you. You can reach us for prayer at https://victory.church/prayer   Giving: At Victory, we steward God's resources well and with radical generosity. If you'd like to give toward the mission of Victory Church, visit https://victory.church/give/   Follow Us: OKC Campus: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victorychurchokc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victorychurchok   Edmond Campus: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoryedmond/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victory.churchEDM   Grapevine (Texas) Campus: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victorychurchgrapevine/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089341962919

Bible Reading: John 3:16-17; Romans 6:23; 10:13Nelson and his parents were spending a few days at the beach, and Nelson loved playing in the water. Today he was having a great time letting the waves carry him up and down as he swam.But then the waves became bigger, and Nelson realized he was too far out and couldn't touch the bottom. "Help!" he cried out to his dad.Dad quickly swam over to Nelson and helped him back to shore."Thanks, Dad," Nelson said, trying to catch his breath."Sometimes those waves can really pull you under," Dad replied.Nelson coughed and nodded. "I sure am glad you were there to save me!""How was the water this afternoon?" Mom asked when Nelson and his dad returned from the beach.Nelson smiled. "A little rough," he answered.Dad explained what happened while Nelson ran to get changed. He put on his pajamas, looking forward to just having dinner and relaxing for the rest of the evening, "Well, don't you look comfy," Mom said when Nelson walked into the kitchen. She handed him plates of fresh fruit and cold cut sandwiches to put on the table. Dad patted him on the shoulder, and they all sat down to eat.After dinner, Nelson helped his parents clean up, and then they all went into the living room for family devotions."I've got a special verse for tonight. It goes right along with our beach incident this afternoon," Dad said.Nelson listened as Dad read Romans 10:13. "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." He looked at Nelson. "I saved you from the waves today, but Jesus gave His life to save us from death itself. The Bible says our sin--the wrong things we do--leads to death and eternal separation from God. But if we trust Jesus as our Savior, He will save us from sin and give us eternal life!"Nelson had heard about Jesus dying to save him many times at church, but he had never really understood it until today. After being saved from the waves that afternoon, Nelson had a clearer understanding of what Jesus had done for him."I think I'm ready to trust Jesus as my Savior," Nelson told his parents. –Lisa FullerHow About You?Have you trusted Jesus to save you? God loves you so much that He gave His Son as a sacrifice for your sins so that you could have eternal life with Him. Jesus died to take the punishment for the wrong things you've done, and He's the only one who can save you from sin and death. If you haven't trusted Him to be your Savior, you can do it today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)Today's Key Verse:God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. (NLT) (John 3:17)Today's Key Thought:Trust Jesus to save you

Bible Reading: John 15:1-5; Galatians 5:22-23"Cora, Gran just called," Mom said. "She said the muscadines are ready to be picked.""Yay! When can we go over and help?" Cora loved helping her grandparents pick their muscadine grapes each summer."I told Gran we'd be over early tomorrow morning before it gets too hot."Mom and Cora got up early the next morning and headed over to Gran and Gramps' house. Gran met them in the driveway, and they took the tractor and trailer down to the vineyard. "Gramps is already busy picking," Gran said. "I think we're going to have a good crop this year. The vines are loaded."When Gran stopped the tractor, Cora grabbed a bucket and got busy. As she was picking near Gran, she noticed that one of the branches looked dead and didn't have any muscadines on it. "What happened to this branch, Gran?""See where it's broken loose from the vine?" said Gran. "Without the vine, it can't live or produce fruit."By the time they stopped for lunch, Cora had picked five buckets full of muscadines. "I pulled that dead branch out that Cora found today," Gramps said while they were all enjoying sandwiches and lemonade. "It made me think of a Bible verse.""What verse is that?" Cora asked.Gramps took a Bible off the counter and opened it to John 15:5. "Cora, will you read it for us?"Cora took the Bible and began reading. "Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing." Cora looked up. "What does that actually mean?""Well," said Gramps, "just like the muscadine branches need the vine to live and produce fruit, we need Jesus, our vine, to grow and produce spiritual fruit. We can't grow as Christians or show others God's love on our own--we need to be connected to Jesus in faith so His Spirit can work in us and produce fruit through us.""Wow, that's pretty cool!" said Cora. "I think I get it now. Since I trust in Jesus, He's my vine and I'm His branch.""I think you've got it," Gran said. "Now, let's go pick some more muscadines."–Lisa FullerHow About You?Are you connected to the vine--Jesus? To be connected to Jesus, you must have a relationship with Him by trusting Him as your Savior. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.) Once you become a Christian, the Holy Spirit will work in your heart so that you can produce spiritual fruit. As you grow and learn to depend on Jesus, He will make you fruitful in sharing His love with others.Today's Key Verse:Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. (NLT) (John 15:4)Today's Key Thought:Be connected to Jesus

Bible Reading: John 8:31-36"Grandpa, look at that one!" exclaimed Easton as a burst of colorful sparks filled the air. He watched in awe as the twirling sparks wove patterns of color in the sky as they made their way down to the earth. "It's the best one yet." The fireworks display was spectacular. Amid ohs and ahs from the crowd, a variety of reds, greens, yellows, blues, and blazing whites lit up the sky.After the grand finale, Grandpa and Easton stood and stretched. "Do you know why we celebrate the Fourth of July?" asked Grandpa."Sure," replied Easton as they walked back to the car. "It's a special day that's set aside to celebrate our freedom and liberty."Grandpa nodded. "We live in a country where we can choose what kind of work we want to do, travel where we want, say what we think, vote for those we want to be elected, and meet for public worship of God. Not everyone has those privileges.""I know, Grandpa," said Easton. "I'm glad we can do those things here.""I am too," said Grandpa. After a moment, he added, "But did you know, Easton, that the greatest freedom anyone can have is available to people in every country of the world?""It is?" asked Easton.Grandpa nodded. "Unfortunately, many people don't know about that freedom," he said. "I'm talking about the freedom that Jesus Christ gives to everyone who trusts in Him. When we trust Him to forgive us for all the wrong things we've done and be our Savior, He makes us His children and frees us from the power and the punishment of sin. That's the most spectacular freedom anyone will ever have.""Then we should celebrate that too," said Easton with a grin. "Can we have fireworks again tomorrow?"Grandpa laughed. "That might not be a bad idea. We should certainly let the world know about this freedom and tell people that they can enjoy it too. All right. We'll have to think about a good way to celebrate our freedom in Christ, and then let's do it!" –Linda E. KnightHow About You?Do you celebrate the freedom from sin that Jesus gives? If you know Him as your Savior, you are truly free--you're no longer ruled by sin and you're free from its punishment. That's a reason to celebrate! Be as outspoken about your freedom in Christ as you are about the other freedoms you enjoy. Let others know they can have this freedom too!Today's Key Verse:If the Son [Jesus] sets you free, you are truly free. (NLT) (John 8:36)Today's Key Thought:Celebrate freedom in Christ

Bible Reading: John 3:16-17It was a perfect day out on the lake--the air was hot and the water was cool. Gracie enjoyed the breeze as her dad motored their boat across the water."Okay, Teddy, you sit here and watch while I swim," Gracie told her teddy bear when the boat had stopped. She sat Teddy down near the boat's dashboard and then jumped into the water. Shadow, their dog, loved the water too, and he jumped in right behind her.After an afternoon of swimming and tubing, Gracie and her parents tucked everything on the boat into place and then took off across the lake toward the dock."Oh no!" cried Gracie when she realized she'd forgotten her teddy bear.Teddy went flying out of the boat. Dad slowed to a stop, and Shadow jumped in the water and retrieved the stuffed bear."Oh, thank you, Shadow," Gracie said as she gave the dog a hug."Wow, that was a close call," Mom said as Gracie squeezed as much water as she could out of her soaking-wet bear. "You'd better hold on to Teddy when Dad takes off again.""I will!" Gracie said as she held Teddy close. Shadow plopped down beside Gracie for the rest of the boat ride.When they arrived home, Mom put Teddy in the washing machine. "Good as new!" she announced as she handed Teddy to Gracie once he was clean.During devotions that night, Dad read Galatians 1:4--"Jesus gave his life for our sins, just as God our Father planned, in order to rescue us from this evil world in which we live." He closed his Bible. "Shadow jumping in and rescuing Teddy today got me thinking about this verse," Dad said. "Just like Shadow rescued Teddy because he couldn't rescue himself, Jesus rescues us from our sins because we can't rescue ourselves either. By dying for our sins on the cross, Jesus made a way for us to have eternal life and live with Him forever. When we trust in Him, He saves us."Gracie sat thinking, holding Teddy close. "I want Jesus to save me," she said. That night Gracie gave her life to Jesus. –Lisa FullerHow About You?Have you trusted Jesus to save you from sin? Sin is all around us in this world we live in, and it's also in our hearts. Sin is the reason we do wrong things, and we can't save ourselves from it. But God loves us so much that He made a rescue plan for us. He sent His Son, Jesus, to be the perfect sacrifice for our sins so we could be saved and spend eternity with Him. If you trust Him as your Savior today, He will rescue you. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)Today's Key Verse:For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. (NLT) (John 3:16)Today's Key Thought:Trust Jesus to save you

Today we're studying Acts 2:1-13, the passage that essentially describes the birth of the Christian church. It begins to answer an important question: What is the purpose of baptism with the Holy Spirit?--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's lesson is exciting, because there's something for everyone:Those who are into this topicPentecostals, charismaticsThose who are freaked out by this topicChristians from more chill religious backgroundsNon-denoms, mainlineThose who are new to ChristianityNot sure what we're even talking aboutStart with this: “baptism with the HS” from a pentecostal perspectiveThe concept gained particular prominence during the early 20th-century Pentecostal revival, beginning with the Azusa Street Revival in 1906. It emphasized a powerful, personal experience of God's presence and the manifestation of spiritual gifts.The Assemblies of God is one of the largest Pentecostal denominations in the world, founded in 1914 in Hot Springs, Arkansas.Foursquare Church - Founded in 1923 by evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson in Los Angeles, California.In the mid-20th century, this emphasis spread beyond Pentecostal denominations to the broader Charismatic movement which embraced similar experiences of the Holy Spirit.The Jesus Movement in the 60's and 70's, along with Calvary Chapel. The Vineyard Movement began in the late 1970s and was founded by John Wimber. The first Vineyard church was officially established in 1982 in Anaheim, California.Catholic charismatic movementHillsong, Bethel Church, etc.In these environments you'll hear about “baptism with the HS”There's one main evidence: speaking in tonguesSo it becomes a huge focus in these churchesOften becomes the main thingIt'll freak you out if you've never seen it beforeBut what does the Bible say about it? That's what we'll answer today: What is the purpose of baptism with the Holy Spirit?We don't believe things based on how weird or normal they seemWe look to God and his Word in all we do (and believe) First of all, “baptism with the HS” is in the Bible, not just made up by the pentecostals and charismaticsThe term was coined by Jesus! Acts 1:5 (NLT) “John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”This is why the disciples went back to JerusalemPracticed disciplines of connection, prayer, Bible studyWaited on God with great expectationBut not exactly sure what it would look likeBaptism with the HS was a biblical concept way before it was a pentecostal thingThe real question is what is the purpose? That's what our text will answer todayBecause the Pentecostal movement traces its roots back to Acts ch...

Love is powerful! It motivates us, transforms us, and fulfills us. Without love, we will feel empty, lost, and insecure. The Scriptures communicate that God wants us to experience his unfailing love and believe in its power. We will then be able to share his love with others, creating a ripple effect that changes the world. Check out this Scripture Playlist to learn about experiencing the love of God and how it changes our lives. Show Notes 1 John 4:19 NIV 1 John 4:7-9 NLT 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 NIV 1 John 4:18 NLT John 15:12-13 NLT Proverbs 19:22 NIV John 13:34-35 NIV Matthew 24:12 NIV Luke 6:27-28 NIV Luke 7:47 NIV Matthew 22:37-39 NIV 1 Peter 1:22 NIV Revelation 2:4-5 NLT 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NLT 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 ERV 1 Corinthians 14:1 NLT

Bible Reading: Mark 2:3-12Kelvin sighed as he picked up a big box. "This room is full of stuff."Mom wiped sweat from her forehead. "And we need to get it all moved to the garage. Theresa and her kids will be here soon."Kelvin and his mom had been struggling since his dad passed away, and he had been surprised when Mom told him that her friend was going to move in with them for a while.Kelvin made a couple of trips to the garage, then he dropped to the floor in the still-messy guest room. "I'm tired.""Me too." Mom leaned against the wall. "We can break for a minute.""Why are we doing this?" Kelvin asked."Because Theresa had a fire at her house," Mom said. "She and her kids can't live there anymore.""I know that, but why do they have to come here? Aren't there other places they can go?""She's my friend, Kelvin," Mom said. "We help our friends when they're in trouble." Mom knelt on the floor. "I'll tell you one quick story, then we need to get back to work. When Jesus was doing miracles, some men came to bring their friend to see Him. Their friend couldn't walk, so they had to carry him to the house."Kelvin looked at his mom. "They carried a grownup?"Mom nodded. "When they got to the house, it was too full to get inside. Instead of leaving, they climbed onto the roof with their friend and made a hole in the roof."Kelvin's eyes widened. "They took him on the roof?""They lowered him down through the hole," Mom said. "And Jesus healed him. The men did everything they could for their friend, showing him the kind of love that God shows us. Jesus laid down His life for us, and when we make sacrifices for our friends like He did, we show them His love." Mom stood up. "And now we need to get this room cleaned and set up for Theresa's family so I can be a good friend and show her God's love.""We should get back to work, huh?" Kelvin got to his feet. "At least we don't have to carry people or climb onto any roofs."Mom smiled. "Right?" –Emily AckerHow About You?Have you ever done something big for one of your friends? Maybe you helped them with homework when you wanted to be playing instead, or you helped them with chores even though you didn't have to. That's the kind of love Jesus showed His friends. He died for our sins so we could be His friends forever, and He'll help you make sacrifices for your friends too.Today's Key Verse:There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. (NLT) (John 15:13)Today's Key Thought:Friends help each other

Speakers: Kason Jeffreys Revelation 3:15-16 (NLT) Romans 6:17-18 (ESV) 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (ESV) John 14:15 (ESV) 1 Peter 3:8-10 (NLT) 1 John 5:18-19 (NLT) Zeke Smithson James 1:2-3 (ESV) Matthew 11:29-30 (ESV) 1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV) Psalm 56:3 (NLT) John 16:33 (NLT) Callie Dry James 2:14-17 (ESV) James 2:18-20 (ESV) James 2:21-23 (ESV) James 2:24-26 (ESV) Trinity Coots Daniel 3:17-18 (NLT) Malachi Collett Job 1:1-22 (NLT) Job 2:2-9 (NLT) Job 42:10-16 (NLT) Need Prayer? Send your prayer requests to: journeychurcheva.com/prayer To give to Journey: journeychurcheva.com/give

In this soul-stirring sermon titled "Stop Making It About You," delve into the transformative power of humility and selflessness in your spiritual journey.  Whether you're wrestling with pride's grip on your life or seeking guidance on your spiritual journey, this sermon offers a beacon of hope and a roadmap to authentic transformation. Tune in now and embark on a profound exploration of humility, purpose, and the boundless love of our Creator. ❤ Sermon Notes:  ”John said to Jesus, “Master, we saw someone using your name to cast out demons, but we told him to stop because he isn't in our group.” But Jesus said, “Don't stop him! Anyone who is not against you is for you.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭9‬:‭49‬-‭50‬ ‭NLT‬‬ ”He will not fight or shout or raise his voice in public. He will not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle…” Matthew‬ ‭12‬:‭19‬-‭20 ‭NLT‬‬ ”John the Baptizer has come neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘There's a demon in him!' The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look at him! He's a glutton and a drunk, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' “Yet, wisdom is proved right by all its results.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭7‬:‭33‬-‭35‬ ‭GW‬‬ ”When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. And he sent messengers ahead of him, who went and entered a village of the Samaritans, to make preparations for him. But the people did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. And when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, “Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them?” But he turned and rebuked them. And they went on to another village.“ ‭‭Luke‬ ‭9‬:‭51‬-‭56‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Today's topic is one that I am growing in: the Fruit of the Spirit. Paul provides a different perspective on how God guides people and shapes their actions/lives. Galatians 5:16-25 (NLT) Fruit is a metaphor for my actions, intentions, and identity. - We all the time say things like, judge a person by their fruits. - Matthew 7:20 (NLT) - John 13:35 (NLT) We have a sin nature and a spirit nature. - Galatians 5:17 (NLT) This has been going on since the beginning. These two forces are constantly fighting each other. We go back and forth between two desires. It's only natural that we are better at the tree of death, it is the Norm. The things on this tree aren't good, but man are they addictive and don't they taste good in the moment? Fruits vs. Gifts: I've heard it said, "A Fruit is Grown, but a Gift is Given." They are both the result of the Holy Spirit, but fruits are for everyone, and gifts are selective. If you are in Christ, we can all live a life of peace, joy, love, and self-control. This is the expectation. This is something that people spend a lot of time and money trying to find. I think it is safe to say that we all want the Fruit of the Spirit, even people who don't want to follow Jesus. Everyone wants to feel peace. We want to be patient. We want to be kind. The problem is how we go about it. We pursue temporary fixes, and we go back to the tree of death! What do I do to live in the Fruit of the Spirit? - Invite the Holy Spirit to lead. - Investigate my relationships. When you decide to follow Jesus, you have already said that you are a new creation. I am no longer defined by my old fruit. Though there is a struggle, the battle has already been won on the cross. My old passions stand defeated on the cross! So, we cast off the things that hinder, we surrender to the Holy Spirit, and ask God to lead every part of our lives! What does the Holy Spirit do to help me live in His fruit? - The Holy Spirit is a guide. - The Holy Spirit instills the right desires. - The Holy Spirit is our source of strength and growth. Jesus wants all of you! And what He has for you is real love, real joy, real peace, real patience, real kindness, real goodness, real faithfulness, real gentleness, and real self-control! No longer trading our lives for cheap substitutes.

Don't be troubled or afraid (NLT) John 14: 27

Bible Reading: Psalm 51:7; Romans 6:23; 1 John 1:9"Cupcake, where have you been? You're filthy!" Jenny said to her puppy. Cupcake was covered in mud and sticktights. Jenny scooped him up and took him straight to the bathtub. "Time to get you clean."Jenny put lots of puppy shampoo on Cupcake and scrubbed and scrubbed. After the bath, she brushed his fur and removed all the sticktights. "Now, don't do that again," Jenny said as she cuddled her puppy."Mom, look at all the sticktights I got out of Cupcake's fur. He was covered in mud too. Boy, was he a mess!""He sure looks clean now. His fur looks as white as snow. You did a good job cleaning him up." Mom grinned. "I think you might need a bath now though."Jenny looked down at her wet clothes and laughed. "I think I do."Mom was in the kitchen getting lunch ready when Jenny walked in after her bath. "Boy, that feels better. When Cupcake gets dirty, he makes me dirty too!"As they ate their lunch on the back deck, Jenny asked her mom some questions about what she had learned in Sunday school that week. "Mrs. Nelson taught a Bible lesson on sin and salvation, but I didn't completely understand all that she was talking about," Jenny said."Well," said Mom, "just like Cupcake needed the mud and sticktights cleaned off him today, we need to be cleaned of sin. Cupcake couldn't clean himself--he needed you to give him a bath and remove the burrs from his fur. What would have happened if you hadn't cleaned him up?""He would still be dirty--and miserable!" Jenny replied. "He'd be getting poked by the sticktights stuck in his fur."Mom nodded. "Our sin does the same thing--it brings pain and sorrow into the world and separates us from God, and it eventually leads to eternal death. Romans 6:23 tells us, 'For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.' God offers us the free gift of salvation through His Son, Jesus, who paid the price for our sins on the cross. When we trust Him as our Savior, He removes our sin and makes us clean so we can live with Him forever." –Lisa FullerHow About You?Do you know God loves you so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for your sins? When you admit that you're a sinner and trust in Jesus, He forgives your sins and makes you clean. It's that simple! You can receive the free gift of salvation and eternal life today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)Today's Key Verse:For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. (NLT) (John 3:16)Today's Key Thought:Jesus makes us clean

You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. (NLT) John 5 : 39

Jesus Heals the Centurion's Servant (Matthew 8:5-13, Luke 7:1-10) Teacher: Pastor Joshua Luis Pereira   (5) When Jesus returned to Capernaum, a Roman officer (Note-  Greek a centurion; similarly in 8:8, 13.) came and pleaded with him, (6) “Lord, my young servant (Note-  Or child; also in 8:13.) lies in bed, paralyzed and in terrible pain.” (7) Jesus said, “I will come and heal him.” (8) But the officer said, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed. (9) I know this because I am under the authority of my superior officers, and I have authority over my soldiers. I only need to say, ‘Go,' and they go, or ‘Come,' and they come. And if I say to my slaves, ‘Do this,' they do it.” (10) When Jesus heard this, he was amazed. Turning to those who were following him, he said, “I tell you the truth, I haven't seen faith like this in all Israel! (11) And I tell you this, that many Gentiles will come from all over the world—from east and west—and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the feast in the Kingdom of Heaven. (12) But many Israelites—those for whom the Kingdom was prepared—will be thrown into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” (13) Then Jesus said to the Roman officer, “Go back home. Because you believed, it has happened.” And the young servant was healed that same hour. Matthew 8:5-13 (NLT)   When Jesus had finished saying all this to the people, he returned to Capernaum. (2) At that time the highly valued slave of a Roman officer (Note-  Greek a centurion; similarly in 7:6.) was sick and near death. (3) When the officer heard about Jesus, he sent some respected Jewish elders to ask him to come and heal his slave. (4) So they earnestly begged Jesus to help the man. “If anyone deserves your help, he does,” they said, (5) “for he loves the Jewish people and even built a synagogue for us.” (6) So Jesus went with them. But just before they arrived at the house, the officer sent some friends to say, “Lord, don't trouble yourself by coming to my home, for I am not worthy of such an honor. (7) I am not even worthy to come and meet you. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed. (8) I know this because I am under the authority of my superior officers, and I have authority over my soldiers. I only need to say, ‘Go,' and they go, or ‘Come,' and they come. And if I say to my slaves, ‘Do this,' they do it.” (9) When Jesus heard this, he was amazed. Turning to the crowd that was following him, he said, “I tell you, I haven't seen faith like this in all Israel!” (10) And when the officer's friends returned to his house, they found the slave completely healed. Luke 7:1-10 – NLT   (54) The Roman officer (Note-  Greek The centurion.) and the other soldiers at the crucifixion were terrified by the earthquake and all that had happened. They said, “This man truly was the Son of God!” Matthew 27:54 – NLT   In Caesarea there lived a Roman army officer (Note-  Greek a centurion; similarly in 10:22.) named Cornelius, who was a captain of the Italian Regiment. (2) He was a devout, God-fearing man, as was everyone in his household. He gave generously to the poor and prayed regularly to God. Acts 10:1-2 – NLT   (25) When they tied Paul down to lash him, Paul said to the officer (Note-  Greek the centurion; also in 22:26.) standing there, “Is it legal for you to whip a Roman citizen who hasn't even been tried?” (26) When the officer heard this, he went to the commander and asked, “What are you doing? This man is a Roman citizen!” Acts 22:25-26 – NLT     (10) As the conflict grew more violent, the commander was afraid they would tear Paul apart. So he ordered his soldiers to go and rescue him by force and take him back to the fortress. Acts 23:10 – NLT   When the time came, we set sail for Italy. Paul and several other prisoners were placed in the custody of a Roman officer (Note-  Greek centurion; similarly in 27:6, 11, 31, 43.) named Julius, a captain of the Imperial Regiment. Acts 27:1 – NLT   John 20:29, when he said, “You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.”     “And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear to him, was sick and ready to die.” Luke 7:2 (NKJV)   (28) “Dear woman,” Jesus said to her, “your faith is great. Your request is granted.” And her daughter was instantly healed. Matthew 15:28 – NLT   (1) Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. Hebrews 11:1 - NLT   (17) So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ. Romans 10:17 – NLT (18) Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Matthew 28:18 – NLT   (46) As he traveled through Galilee, he came to Cana, where he had turned the water into wine. There was a government official in nearby Capernaum whose son was very sick. (47) When he heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went and begged Jesus to come to Capernaum to heal his son, who was about to die. (48) Jesus asked, “Will you never believe in me unless you see miraculous signs and wonders?” (49) The official pleaded, “Lord, please come now before my little boy dies.” (50) Then Jesus told him, “Go back home. Your son will live!” And the man believed what Jesus said and started home. (51) While the man was on his way, some of his servants met him with the news that his son was alive and well. (52) He asked them when the boy had begun to get better, and they replied, “Yesterday afternoon at one o'clock his fever suddenly disappeared!” (53) Then the father realized that that was the very time Jesus had told him, “Your son will live.” And he and his entire household believed in Jesus. (54) This was the second miraculous sign Jesus did in Galilee after coming from Judea. John 4:46-54 – NLT   (24) Then Jesus left Galilee and went north to the region of Tyre. (Note-  Some manuscripts add and Sidon.) He didn't want anyone to know which house he was staying in, but he couldn't keep it a secret. (25) Right away a woman who had heard about him came and fell at his feet. Her little girl was possessed by an evil (Note-  Greek unclean.) spirit, (26) and she begged him to cast out the demon from her daughter.Since she was a Gentile, born in Syrian Phoenicia, (27) Jesus told her, “First I should feed the children—my own family, the Jews. (Note-  Greek Let the children eat first.) It isn't right to take food from the children and throw it to the dogs.” (28) She replied, “That's true, Lord, but even the dogs under the table are allowed to eat the scraps from the children's plates.” (29) “Good answer!” he said. “Now go home, for the demon has left your daughter.” (30) And when she arrived home, she found her little girl lying quietly in bed, and the demon was gone. Mark 7:24-30 – NLT   "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." This verse supports your point about the importance of faith, like the Centurion's faith in Jesus' healing power. Hebrews 11:6 - NLT

Pastor Dale Benson - 2 Kings 6:17 (NLT) - John 2:9 (NLT) - John 4:11-12 (NLT) - John 4:27 (NLT) - Luke 7:47 (NLT) - John 8:10 (NLT) In each of the stories above, God has to give the people in the story a new perspective. I spent the last week looking at my own past to begin looking in the future: - 55 years ago today, my eyes saw the first light of day. - 40 years ago today, I received my learner's permit for driving. - 39 years ago today, I received my driver's license. - 37 years ago today, I registered to vote and registered with the selective service. - 6 years ago today, I was installed as lead pastor of The Naz and 5 months later the church was hit by a tornado. Roughly 2 years ago, at the behest of the city we began working on a new master plan for the campus which would be a huge undertaking. To be honest, I was ready for someone else to take on that plan a few years down the road, but God had a different perspective on the situation. And that's what I would like to talk to you about today: Our perspective vs. God's perspective. I would like to take a moment and put a little shift in our perspective. As it pertains to the church: Rise Up: - Goal - $3.8 million - Raised 2.5 million, and other monies that have come in that have not been pledged. - Collected $800,000 - You have risen up in Prayer. - You have risen up in Generosity. - Now is the time to rise up in Action. Nate Bargatze on Marriage - Marriage Mentors - Marriage Course begins this Wednesday. Drug Problem - I was drug to church Sunday morning, Sunday night, and Wednesday night. - For those struggling with addiction they need someone to come to them. - The Prodigal Father waited on the porch. - The Son of God was sent to seek and to save the lost. For something to grow…something else must die. - “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end.” -Lucius Annaeus Seneca Worry and anxiety happen when we move our perspective from the present to the future or the past. - 1-800-662-HELP - 1-800-273-TALK There are always people behind the stories of Why. Don't wait for the people to show up at the new facilities at The Naz.

Bible Reading: John 4:7-14"Hey!" said Zoe. "What's wrong with the water?" She turned the kitchen faucet knob as far as she could, but all she got was a sputtering sound. She groaned. "I'm so thirsty!""When I got home from work, I found a notice on the door saying the city water department would be working on our street today," said Mom. "If I'd known earlier, I would have filled some containers. There's still some juice in the fridge."Zoe grabbed the juice and poured all of it into a large glass. She chugged it greedily, then smacked her lips. "That was good.""Did you save any for Mikey?" asked Mom, looking up from a pile of mail.Zoe looked at the empty juice container. "Whoops."When Zoe's brother Mikey got home a few minutes later and found out there was nothing to drink, he groaned and staggered to a chair. "Water! Water!" he cried weakly.Zoe laughed. "You don't have to be so dramatic about it."Mom went to answer a knock at the door, and a minute later Molly, their next-door neighbor, walked in with a gallon of water. "I thought you might be needing this," she said.Mikey eagerly poured water into a glass and drank it, then sighed with satisfaction. "Oh, thank you, Molly," he said, clasping his hands together. "You saved my life!""Oh, brother!" groaned Zoe. "Here we go again!""Well, a person dying of thirst can be saved by getting a drink of water," said Mikey. "Isn't that why Jesus is called the Living Water? Because He can save people who are dying?""That's a very good point," said Mom. "People have a spiritual thirst that's even greater than the thirst for water. We have a thirst for love, for joy, for forgiveness--for God. A drink of water can save us from physical death, and Jesus, the Living Water, can save us from spiritual death. But what if you hadn't taken the water Molly offered you, Mikey?""I'd still be thirsty," said Mikey.Mom nodded. "The same thing goes for us if we don't take the Living Water that Jesus offers. It's free and brings everlasting life--but only to those who accept it!" –Trudy VanderVeenHow About You?Do you ever feel unsatisfied with life, even if you have a lot of good things going for you? Do you have a thirsty soul--a spiritual thirst? Jesus can satisfy that thirst. He can quench your soul's deepest desires and fill your life with peace, hope, and joy. He can save you from spiritual death and give you eternal life. Trust in Him, and He will satisfy your soul. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)Today's Key Verse:But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life. (NLT) (John 4:14)Today's Key Thought:Jesus satisfies thirsty souls

Gen 1:26-27, Luke 10:19 (AMP) Eph 3:10-22 (NLT) John 14:14, Matt 16:13-19, 1 John 5:14

You will rejoice, and no one can rob you of that joy (NLT) John 16 : 22

DeconstructionWeek 2 - Did God Really Say…?The Bible is one of the first things people begin to doubt in the process of deconstruction. Did God really say…? Are certain parts of the Bible more true than others? Is it a God-breathed, God-inspired story or humanity's best attempt at explaining God? Some even ask what Jesus thought or said about the Bible. In week 2, Chase Gardner helps tackle these questions and more.—Message NotesWhat does Jesus say about the Bible? Can we believe the Bible and base our lives on it?  Orthodox View: The authors received more and more truths over time.Progressive View: What the authors wrote got truer and truer over time.What does Jesus say about the Bible?Luke 4:3-4 (NLT)Luke 4:5-8 (NLT)Luke 4:9-12 (NLT)Jesus used Scripture to counter Satan.Jesus thought the words of the Old Testament were vital, authoritative and coherent.A lot of what the Bible says is descriptive not prescriptive. (It describes how people lived, not necessarily saying we need to live that way ourselves.)Often, people use the Bible out of context to prove their points or justify their actions.Matthew 24:17 (KJV)“I must recognize that we essentially have human rights in our world because of Christianity. It is quite clear in this Christian reevaluation of the human person that the philosophy of human rights, of which we subscribe to today, would have never established itself.” - Luke Ferry (atheist author)If you want to root yourself in the teachings and traditions of Jesus, you should have a high view of the Bible as well.Jesus points out that the Bible is the inspired Word of God.Matthew 22:41-46 (NLT)The writers of the Bible are like the instruments of revelation.2 Peter 1:20-21 (NLT)2 Timothy 3:16a (NLT)Jesus did not come to end the laws of the Old Testament. He came to fulfill them.Matthew 5:17-19 (NLT)Jesus is saying that the entire Bible is purposeful. Jesus taught the Bible we have today is canon, actual books inspired by God.Luke 24:44 (NLT)Jesus considered His own words as Scripture:Matthew 7:24-27 (NLT)John 15:14 (NLT)John 12:49 (NLT)Matthew 28 (NLT)Jesus' apostles and followers considered the New Testament as Scripture.2 Peter 3:15-16 (NLT)If the vital, authoritative, coherent, inspired, purposeful and countercultural canon of Scripture says it, Jesus tells us to believe it and obey it for God's glory and our good.—Helpful LinksFor more series resources, visit https://gethope.net/deconstruction/#moreIf you'd like to receive regular updates on what's happening around Hope, subscribe to our newsletter here: https://gethope.net/enews/Subscribe to Family Conversations for weekly prompts and resources: https://touchpoint.gethope.net/OnePageReg/2451If you're new to Hope or looking to get connected, click here: https://gethope.net/next/To support this ministry financially to help us continue to love people where they are and encourage them to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ, click here: https://gethope.net/give/Subscribe to our channel: https://bit.ly/2XBbBxqStay Connected with Hope:Website: https://gethope.net/Hope Community Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gethopecommunitychurchHope Community Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get_hope/Hope Community Church Twitter: https://twitter.com/get_hopeHope Community Church YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/HopeCommunityChurchSubscribe to Our PodcastHope In Real Life YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HopeInRealLifeHope In Real Life Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7eifzI0r9uY8rUaBMGs7q1Hope In Real Life Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hope-in-real-life-with-jason-gore/id1691710678?uo=4

Galatians 2:11-21 (NLT)1 John 3:4 (NLT) and (ESV) “It was a blessed illustration of substitution – the innocent dying in the stead of the guilty” – Arthur Pink Isaiah 53:5-7 (NIV)Hebrews 10:1-4, 11-12, 18 (NLT)John 1:29 (NLT) “It’s always been about this substitutionary sacrifice that mankind has needed from the beginning because we were never … Continue reading I AM GOD’S PLAN: GOD’S PLAN →

As humans, we often have a difficult time loving others in the genuine and unselfish way God intends. But God loves us unfailingly. He is our greatest example of love, and from him, we can learn how to love the people around us. Listen to this episode of Scripture Playlist to learn how your relationship with God will teach you to genuinely love other people.  Show Notes 1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 NLT Luke 6:35-36 ERV Romans 5:8 NKJV Proverbs 3:2-3 ERV 1 John 4:16-17 NLT 1 John 4:19-20 NLT 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 NLT 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NLT Colossians 3:12-15 NLT Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT Ephesians 5:1-2 MSG John 3:16-17 NLT 2 Timothy 1:13 NLT John 13:34-35 NLT 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NLT Ephesians 3:17-19 NLT 1 John 3:16 ERV Matthew 11:28-29 ERV 2 John 1:5-6 NLT 2 John 1:2 CEV 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13 ERV

There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. (NLT) John 15 : 13

If the Son sets you free, you are truly free (NLT) John 8 : 36

Have you ever been in a season of heavy spiritual warfare? Did you feel defeated? There are times when the level of war seems so heavy, we feel we won't make it. However, God has come to remind us that the enemy is defeated! You have a God that will destroy them. KEEP FAITH! Verses: Deuteronomy‬ ‭33‬:‭26‬-‭27‬ ‭NLT ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭33‬:‭26‬-‭28‬ ‭MSG Matthew‬ ‭25‬:‭41‬ ‭NLT ‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭4‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unleashingsouls/ Personal IG: https://www.instagram.com/thamichaet/ Watch this episode on YT: https://youtu.be/QtsErRjrqRg

Do you believe that there is more? Do you believe that God has more in store for your life, your family, and your future? Are you ready to take your life to whole other level? Well we certainly do! Thats why we are so glad that you are joining us for Elevate 2023 this year. All of these questions and more will be answered in this years three day conference, and we are so glad that you are here with us so we can all become greater together! Welcome to Relevant Church Live, the online campus of Relevant Church located in Daytona Beach, Florida. We pray that through this service you find your place, reveal your purpose, and unlock your potential! We pray this message blesses you and gives you the strength you need to do and be all that God has called you to do and be! Leave a comment below letting us know how this message impacted you today, we'd love to chat with you! #ElevateConference #Elevate2023 #RelevantChurch #Elevate #PastorLizSarno #OnlineChurch #RelevantChurchDaytonaBeach #DaytonaBeachFlorida -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ways to Give: Text to Give: Text your amount to 386-968-1103 Online Giving: Visit our website http://www.relevantfl.org/giving to give via debit, credit, or ACH Cash App: $RelevantFL (Please put your name & gift type in the notes) Mail It In: Send gift Via USPS to 920 Beville Rd. Daytona Beach, FL 32114 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Stay Connected: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @RelevantChurch Relevant Church Website: https://www.relevantfl.org/ Relevant Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevant_fl/ Relevant Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RelevantFL Relevant Church App: https://apps.apple.com/app/id1615804850?fbclid=IwAR3aHqo_6kr8Tzd_JK6xihjfJkVk6j7-iqITDj1u1wFicDLn6g6C29gL3LY Rkidz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rkidzfl Relevant Youth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevantflyouth/ Relevant Church Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6nUtPIkecEehfstUWWPIVU?si=QBMEtu85SyuU3FxRM1X7lg&nd=1 Relevant Church SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/relevantlive Pastor Chris Sarno's Website: https://www.chrissarno.tv/ Chris Sarno App: http://www.chrissarno.tv/app -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Scripture References: Mark 4:8-9 (TPT) Daniel 2:17-22 (NLT) John 4:5-14 (NLT) John 7:37 (TPT) 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (TPT) 2 Corinthians 10:3-4 (TPT) Jeremiah 2:13 (NLT) Isaiah 59:19 (KJV) Genesis 26:18-21 (KJV) Haggai 2:9 (AMP) 1 Corinthians 2:9-11 (NKJV, AMPC) Matthew 14:28 (NLT) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thursday, July 13th 2023 Pastor Liz Sarno Relevant Church Elevate Conference 2023 | Night Two | Relevant Church | Pastor Liz Sarno

Welcome to Relevant Church Live, the online campus of Relevant Church located in Daytona Beach, Florida. We pray that through this service you find your place, reveal your purpose, and unlock your potential! We pray this message blesses you and gives you the strength you need to do and be all that God has called you to do and be! Leave a comment below letting us know how this message impacted you today, we'd love to chat with you! #RelevantChurch #PastorChrisSarno #OnlineChurch #Greater #PowerOfFaith #Faith #RelevantChurchDaytonaBeach #DaytonaBeachFlorida -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ways to Give: Text to Give: Text your amount to 386-968-1103 Online Giving: Visit our website http://www.relevantfl.org/giving to give via debit, credit, or ACH Cash App: $RelevantFL (Please put your name & gift type in the notes) Mail It In: Send gift Via USPS to 920 Beville Rd. Daytona Beach, FL 32114 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Stay Connected: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @RelevantChurch Relevant Church Website: https://www.relevantfl.org/ Relevant Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevant_fl/ Relevant Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RelevantFL Relevant Church App: https://apps.apple.com/app/id1615804850?fbclid=IwAR3aHqo_6kr8Tzd_JK6xihjfJkVk6j7-iqITDj1u1wFicDLn6g6C29gL3LY Rkidz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rkidzfl Relevant Youth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relevantflyouth/ Relevant Church Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6nUtPIkecEehfstUWWPIVU?si=QBMEtu85SyuU3FxRM1X7lg&nd=1 Relevant Church SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/relevantlive Pastor Chris Sarno's Website: https://www.chrissarno.tv/ Chris Sarno App: http://www.chrissarno.tv/app -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 8:9 (KJV) Romans 1:17 (KJV) Hebrews 11:6 (KJV) Hebrews 11:1 (NLT) Numbers 13:31-33 Numbers 14:1-3 Genesis 18:14 Luke 1:37 Mark 11:22-24 Ephesians 3:20 (LB) 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NLT) John 3:16 (CEV) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunday, July 16th 2023 Pastor Chris Sarno Relevant Church Greater | Week 3 | July 16th, 2023 | Pastor Chris Sarno | Relevant Church

Bible Reading: Exodus 3:1-10; 2 Timothy 3:14-16"We had a Bible story about Moses in my class at church today," Autumn told her family at dinner. "We learned that God talked to Moses from a burning bush. Our teacher says God still speaks to people."Wesley jabbed his fork into a potato. "Maybe, but not through anything as interesting as a burning bush." He grinned. "I'd like to see one of those--and I don't mean the kind that has red leaves in the fall. I mean one that's really on fire!""Yeah!" said Autumn. "Imagine one of Mom's best bushes on fire and God speaking to us out of it!"Mom laughed. "Make it a bush way at the back of the yard, will you? We don't want to burn the house down!""You know, it doesn't require a real burning bush for God to speak to us," said Dad. "That bush was just what got Moses's attention. It was when he stopped what he was doing to check it out that God spoke to him. Today God speaks to us through His Word, the Bible, and He often uses a different kind of burning bush to get our attention. The situations we face in life can help us turn our attention toward Him so we can listen to what He has to say.""Like when Grandma died when I was little?" asked Wesley. "I had never really thought about death before, and it scared me. But then the pastor at Grandma's funeral talked about Jesus and how we don't have to be afraid of death because He died and rose again to save us from it, so I decided to trust Him as my Savior!" Dad smiled and nodded. "The situations God allows in our lives to get our attention can often be difficult ones," he said. "God can use them to help us see how much we need Him." "He uses people to do that too--like the pastor at Grandma's funeral," said Mom. "He got Wesley's attention by sharing the message of God's love when he needed to hear it.""Right," said Dad. "And when Wesley trusted in Jesus, He received the Holy Spirit, who lives in us and gives us wisdom and understanding as we read and listen to God's Word."Autumn grinned. "That's even better than a real burning bush!" -Tanya FerdinanduszHow About You?Do you think God no longer speaks to people like He did in stories from the Bible? He does--through His Word, the Bible, and through the Holy Spirit. Sometimes He also uses the people and circumstances in our lives to help us pay attention and listen to what He has to say. So be on the lookout for anything He's trying to tell you. Are there any burning bushes in your life--people or circumstances that are pointing you toward Him?Today's Key Verse:When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. (NLT) (John 16:13)Today's Key Thought:God still speaks to people today

I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved (NLT) John 10 : 9

Welcome to Passionate Life Church! Pastor Lizmar graces us with today's message about God's future for our lives. Join us as God's word propels us forward into His wonderful promises! Welcome Home! ----------------------------------------------------- Sermon Notes: Luke 17:32 NIV Genesis 19:16-17 NLT Genesis 19:23- 26 NLT Jeremah 29:11 NIV Philippians 3:13-14 NLT 3 Tips to Not Let Your Past Define You 1. Capture your thoughts 2 Corinthians 10:5 2. The Past 3. The Future Psalm 31:14-16 (NLT) John 8:10-11 NLT "One cannot be both a victim and a victor at the same time." John 5:4 ESV Take authority in the name of Jesus! My past is not my future Fear is not my future Shame is not my future Anger is not my future Guilt is not my future _______ is not my future 2 things to stay away from: Complacency Compromise "Are you ready to take the risk?" ----------------------------------------------------- Thanks for listening! If you were positively impacted by this message, please leave us a comment! Be sure to like and subscribe to our channel to stay connected to this house. Join us every Sunday at 9:00am or 10:30am Spotify: http://bit.ly/passionatelifechurch Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/passionatelifechurch Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passionate.life.church/ 10393 W Alamo Pl Littleton, CO 80127 Need Prayer? Contact us at passionatelifechurch@gmail.com — ► Subscribe to our channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL88... — Passionate People. Multicultural Environment. Atmosphere to Experience God. You will feel Loved, Refreshed, & Empowered Loved: We have an atmosphere of acceptance and an environment that creates a “come as you are” message. Everyone will feel loved! Refreshed: We serve a God of the Fresh Start! No matter where you've been or what you've done, God wants to refresh you today and every day. Empowered: God wants to grow you into everything He's called you to be and do. We want to give you all of the tools you will need in order to empower you to live a life fully devoted to Jesus Christ. We are non-denominational & believe that the Bible is truth and fully written by God through man. Need Prayer? Contact us at passionatelifechurch@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/passionatelifechurch/message

Do whatever he (JESUS) tells you. (NLT) John 2 : 5

As we continue our series on building a church that changes the world, we have to decide whether we want a biblical or a traditional church. The church of the New Testament embodied five qualities that we can learn from if we want to build a biblical church: conviction, transparency, discipleship, purpose, and unity. Watch this episode of One Quick Thought to learn more about how Jesus changed the world. Show Notes John 15:1-8 NLT Ephesians 4:11-16 NLT Matthew 28:16-20 NLT John 17:21 NLT Discussion Questions Which of the five qualities do you see you need to grow the most in: conviction, transparency, discipleship, purpose, or unity? What are some practical steps you and your friends could take to grow in those qualities this week?

Bible Reading: Mark 12:28-33; John 13:34-35"There's a new girl in my class," Nuri remarked as she helped clear the table. "Her name is Elizabeth--and that's what she wants to be called. Elizabeth." Mom looked up from loading the dishwasher. "I hope you were friendly. Remember how it feels to start at a new school?" "Yeah, but she's so stuck-up, Mom," Nuri said. "We asked if she has a nickname, and she said if anybody calls her anything but Elizabeth, she won't answer. And she kept talking about the big, wonderful house her family moved into." The back door burst open. "Look what I found! Isn't he cute?" Nuri's brother Tae set a wet, muddy kitten down on the kitchen floor. "Tae, get that cat out of the kitchen," Mom said. "He's filthy! Where did you find him?" Tae picked up the frightened, shivering animal. "He's been hanging around Blake's house. I'm sure he doesn't belong to anybody. Can I keep him, Mom? He won't be any trouble." "No trouble?" Mom laughed and rolled her eyes. "Right, no trouble at all!"Tae jumped up and down. "We can keep him?" "I didn't say that. A kitten needs attention every day. You'd have to take care of him whether you want to or not--he'd be your responsibility. Are you willing to do that?" Both kids nodded eagerly. "All right," Mom said. "You can keep him. I'll make an appointment with the vet." After they took the kitten to the vet for a checkup, Tae and Nuri gave their new pet a bath. "He certainly looks better now," said Mom, "but he'll need care every day." "We know," said Nuri as the kitten snuggled into her lap. "All he needed was some tender, loving care. My teacher calls that TLC." "Hmm," Mom murmured. "Maybe that's what the new girl in your class needs too. She seems to be trying hard to make an impression. Maybe she needs a friend." Mom leaned over and stroked the kitten's head. "You've been a good friend to this kitten. Your tender, loving care reminds me of the way Jesus loves and cares for us. Maybe you could show His love to Elizabeth by being her friend too."Nuri was quiet for a moment. Then she nodded. "Okay. I'll try to be a friend to her."-Barbara J. WestbergHow About You?Do you know someone who needs TLC--tender, loving care? Sometimes people who seem stuck-up or mean are really just lonely and in need of a friend. Jesus always treats us with tender, loving care--even when we're not nice. You can show His love to others by giving them some TLC when they need it and being a friend to them.Today's Key Verse:I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. (NLT) (John 13:34)Today's Key Thought:Treat others with love

Bible Reading: John 15:9-17Logan loved pranking his big sister Natalie. Today, he'd sneaked into her room while she was at soccer practice and turned everything upside down. When she got home, he hid in his room, waiting for her reaction. After several minutes, her scream echoed down the hallway. "Logan!"Logan fell onto his bed laughing as Natalie stomped in. "Why would you do that to me?" she demanded.Logan shrugged. "What's the big deal? It's funny!""Grrrr!" Natalie balled up her fists. Mom stepped in. "What's going on?""Logan pranked me again. I'm tired of it! Just look at my room!"Mom shook her head. "Come on, Logan. Let's fix this."Logan sighed and followed Mom into Natalie's room. Couldn't Natalie take a joke?Mom watched while Logan flipped Natalie's belongings so they were back to normal. It wasn't so fun this time. No wonder Natalie had been upset--if she was tired after practice, fixing her room would've been a big project.A knot formed in Logan's stomach. "Mom…I haven't been a good brother.""Why's that?" asked Mom.Logan swallowed. "I prank Natalie all the time. It's funny, and it makes me feel popular when I tell stories about it at school. But Natalie and I used to be friends--and now I've ruined it.""Friendship is powerful," Mom said. "Jesus told His disciples that the best kind of love is when we lay down our lives for our friends."Logan's eyes widened. "That's what Jesus did. He died so we could live.""Exactly. If we want to love like Jesus, we can lay down our desires for the sake of our friends."Logan nodded. He knew he had to lay down his desire to prank Natalie in order to love her better.When he finished with Natalie's room, he found her in the kitchen. "Natalie… I'm sorry."She turned. "You are?""Yeah. And I want to be friends again. What would you think about that?"When a joyful smile spread across Natalie's face, Logan knew her answer. -Becca WierwilleHow About You?How well do you love the people in your life? Do you think about how your actions will affect them? Or do you just focus on what you want? Jesus said that the greatest kind of love is laying down our lives for our friends. He did that for us when He died on the cross, and we can show that same kind of love to others, even in small ways. Are there desires you need to give up in order to love your family and friends better?Today's Key Verse:There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. (NLT) (John 15:13 )Today's Key Thought:Love others like Jesus

Bible Reading: Galatians 3:26; 4:6-7; Hebrews 2:11Marisol folded her pajamas and placed them in the top drawer of a white dresser. There was also room for her underwear, socks, and a photo of her mom and brother. Her jeans and a pair of shorts went into the drawer below, and she hung her three T-shirts in the small closet. Marisol placed the stuffed bunny a volunteer had given her on the bed, then sat down on the pink flowered quilt. Beverly, her sponsor, knocked on the door. "Can I come in?""Sí," said Marisol. "Yes." She needed to remember to speak English.Beverly sat beside Marisol. "The towels, shampoo, and soap are in the bathroom. If you need anything else, let me know.""Gracias--thank you." Marisol smiled, but inside she wanted to cry. What she needed was Mami and Jorge, her brother. In this country, she was like an orphan, living with people she didn't know.Several months ago, Marisol's family decided she'd be safer in the United States than in El Salvador, where gangs of men and boys attacked and hurt people. They couldn't afford for all three of them to make the long trip, so they sent Marisol with strangers. Ever since she'd left home, Marisol felt alone and scared.Beverly put her hand over Marisol's. "I can only imagine how frightened you must be, but remember, you have family here." Marisol understood more English than she could speak, but she was confused. "Mi familia, my family…" She tried to remember the correct words. "No está aquí--is not here!""But there's another family you're a part of," said Beverly. "Didn't you tell me you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior?"Marisol nodded. Her family walked to church every Sunday. They thanked Jesus for their food before eating, and each night, Mami, Marisol, and Jorge thanked Jesus for protecting them.Beverly smiled. "Then you are one of God's children and belong to His family--the church! You aren't alone." Beverly hugged her tight. "En serio?" asked Marisol."Really," answered Beverly.Marisol gave Beverly a small grin. She wouldn't stop missing Mami and Jorge, but it felt good to know she had family here too. -Bonnie CarrHow About You?Are you a follower of Jesus Christ? Have you trusted Him to save you from sin? If so, you are part of His family--the church. Families help and support one another. No matter how far away you are from your parents, grandparents, brothers, or sisters, you can find family in the church. You are a child in God's family!Today's Key Verse:But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. (NLT) (John 1:12)Today's Key Thought:You are a child of God