Podcasts about nlt people

Want to Learn How to Lead Like Jesus? Join the Confidence Kickstart Challenge! This is a free 1-hour live workshop where you'll learn how you can gain confidence in leading like Jesus. We'll cover: What's holding you back from leading like Jesus? How Jesus modelled confident leadership How you can start leading like Jesus. Date: June 25th (US Participants); 26 June (Australian Participants) Even if you can't make it, register so that you can receive the recording! I can't wait to share what I've learnt with you! Go to https://events.womenoffaithinleadership.com to register! ........................................................................... In today's episode, I share 3 of the biggest challenges female Christian leaders face.  Integrity Let's talk about integrity. Definition of Integrity - Cambridge Dictionary “The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles that you refuse to change." What does the bible say about integrity? Proverbs 2:7 NLT: “He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity.” Proverbs 11:20 NLT: “The Lord detests people with crooked hearts, but he delights in those with integrity.” Proverbs 10:9 NLT: “People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will be exposed.” I heard once, Integrity is doing the right thing all the time, whether someone is looking or not.  Listen in as I share 3 integrity challenges, what they look like, why we do them and how we can overcome them.  Have a listener question? Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com Next steps:  1. Join the Confidence Kickstart Challenge: https://events.womenoffaithinleadership.com   2. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can: Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here.  Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers. 3. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall 4. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan

“I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance.” (Ephesians 1:18 NLT) People come up to me and ask, “Greg, what’s the one thing you can say to a nonbeliever that will cause them to accept Christ?” Like I know the hidden secret. Like I’m going to say, “Since you asked, I’m going to show you the ultimate evangelism hack. Here’s what you do.” Sorry to disappoint you, but there’s no such thing as the ultimate evangelism hack. When I share my faith, I do the same thing that most of you probably do. I just tell my story. I tell people about Jesus, and I pray that the Lord will open their eyes. You may witness to one person and find that it’s like talking to a brick wall. Nothing. No response at all. And then when you witness in the same way to another person, boom! They get it. They’re responsive to your message. So always pray for the Lord to open a person’s eyes. I remember when my eyes were opened. I was seventeen years old, and I was listening to Lonnie Frisbee. He made one statement that resonated powerfully with me. He said, “Jesus said you’re for Me or you’re against Me.” And suddenly, I got it. I don’t know why I got it at that moment. I don’t know what it was about that statement. But when I heard it, it was like a light switched on inside me. Up until that moment, I had been looking cynically and critically at the Christian faith. And then I realized it was all true. It was all real. I should point out that it’s possible to have your eyes open and still not be a Christian. I’ve met people who say, “I agree that Jesus is the Son of God. I believe that He lived a sinless life. I believe that He died on the cross for my sin. I believe that He rose again from the dead. I believe that He’s coming back again. I believe that the Bible is the Word of God. But that’s it. I believe it, but I’m not going to act on it.” So having your eyes opened doesn’t necessarily guarantee anything. But it’s a necessary first step. And only God can open a person’s eyes. Paul prayed in Ephesians 1:18 for God to open the eyes of nonbelievers. And when you’re sharing your faith, the first thing you should do is pray, “Lord, open this person’s eyes because there’s nothing I can say or do that will make this person believe.” There are a lot of people in your orbit who fit Paul’s description in Ephesians 4:18: “Their minds are full of darkness; they wander far from the life God gives because they have closed their minds and hardened their hearts against him” (NLT). Will you be bold and caring enough to reach out to them? To show them the light of the gospel? And to ask God to open their eyes to His truth? Reflection Question: How can you help facilitate an eye-opening moment in the life of someone you know? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Beatitudes, Pt. 6 | March 23, 2025Pastor Wes Morris Matthew 5:8 (NIV) Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.Katharos: clean, clear, and free from contamination.Purity: Undivided devotion√ EXTERNAL PRESSURESI John 2:16 (NIV) For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.√ INTERNAL STRUGGLES√ SMALL COMPROMISESSong of Solomon 2:15 (NLT) Catch all the foxes, those little foxes, before they ruin the vineyard of love, for the grapevines are blossoming!√ SPIRITUAL WARFAREI Peter 5:8 (NLT) Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.A PASSION FOR PURITYI. DON'T CONCEAL IT, CONFESS IT.Proverbs 28:13 (NLT) People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.You are only as strong as you are honest. II. DON'T JUST FIGHT IT, FLEE FROM IT.II Timothy 2:20-22 (NIV) In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.I Corinthians 6:18 (NIV) Run from sexual sin! No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does.III. IF YOU FALL, KEEP GETTING BACK UP. Isaiah 1:18 (NIV) The Lord says, “Now, let's settle the matter. You are stained red with sin, but I will wash you as clean as snow. Although your stains are deep red, you will be as white as wool.Proverbs 24:16 (NLT) The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again.

David stated in Psalm 24:1: The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. (NLT) People tend to either believe God created the world or He didn't. And then if someone believes He did, the next step of faith is believing whether or not He is actively involved in the lives of the people walking on His planet. King David was clear. The earth belongs to God. Everything in and on the earth belongs to God. The entire world and even all the people belong to Him. If we believe this to be true, then we are never actually owners of anything while we are here. How do you view what you have, as you being the owner or the steward? How might being a steward change your mindset? Listen once again to Psalm 24:1: The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. (NLT) Let's offer a personalized version: What I have on the earth is the Lord's, and everything in my life. My world and all the people I know belong to him. We know the old saying, “You can't take it with you when you go.” Just more evidence that we are merely borrowing everything we have while we are here. To trust God with our lives and to ask Him for help, we must first see everything as His and come to accept we are stewards of His blessings, responsible and accountable to Him. Let's pray: “Father, I confess my world is yours and everything in it. Remind me every day that the world and all the people are yours. Help me to be a good steward of all I have and all You allow me to hold while I am here. As above, so below.”

NOTES: Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of these men who heard what John said and then followed Jesus. Andrew went to find his brother, Simon, and told him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means “Christ”). Then Andrew brought Simon to meet Jesus. John 1:40-42 (NLT) Andrew went looking. Then Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up. “There's a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?” John 6:8-9 (NLT) Andrew saw what no one else saw. They said, “Sir, we want to meet Jesus.” Philip told Andrew about it, and they went together to ask Jesus. John 12:21-22 (NLT) People found Andrew BOTTOM LINE : One invitation can transform a life. CHALLENGE: Share your story

Fresh Start – Freedom from Bitterness  Ephesians 4:31-32 (NIV)Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” I.               Causes of Bitterness 1.     Actions done or not done to you.  Job 19:19 (NIV)“All my intimate friends detest me;       those I love have turned against me.” 2.     Attitudes projected towards you.Job 19:5 (NIV)“you would exalt yourselves above me                               and use my humiliation against me,” 3.     Words spoken to you.  Job 12:5 (NLT)"People who are at ease mock those in trouble.       They give a push to people who are stumbling." Proverbs 15:4 (NLT)“Gentle words are a tree of life;                               a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” Job 5:2 (NIV)“Resentment kills a fool…”      Hebrews 12:15 (NIV)“See to it that …..no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” “Many are unable to function properly in their calling because of the wounds and hurts that offenses have caused in their lives. They are handicapped and hindered from fulfilling their full potential.”- John Bevere II.             Find Freedom from Bitterness1.     Be open and honest about your pain. Job 7:11 (NIV)“Therefore I will not keep silent;                               I will speak out in the anguish of my spirit,                               I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.” 2.     Make the decision to forgive. Job 42:10 (NIV)“After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.” 3.     Stop looking back and look into your future. Philippians 3:13 (NIV)“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.” Job 42:12 (NIV)“The Lord blessed the latter part of Job's life more than the former part...”

The Lord gave another message to Jeremiah. He said, “Go down to the potter's shop, and I will speak to you there.” So I did as he told me and found the potter working at his wheel. But the jar he was making did not turn out as he had hoped, so he crushed it into a lump of clay again and started over. Then the Lord gave me this message: “O Israel, can I not do to you as this potter has done to his clay? As the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in my hand.” Jeremiah 18:1-6 NLT 1. Jeremiah saw the potter Remember, I pray, that You have made me like clay. Job 10:9 NKJV In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 NLT In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. John 1:1-2 NLT 2. Jeremiah saw the wheel And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 NLT 3. Jeremiah saw the clay Sin is simply when we resist God's Will. ​​In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets—some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing. 2 Timothy 2:20-21 MSG LIFE WILL NEVER MAKE SENSE UNLESS YOU LIVE A LIFE BIGGER THAN YOURSELF For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. 5:8-10 NIV 1. ASK YOURSELF “What should I STOP doing” Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them… Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise… Ephesians 5:11;15 NIV Behind your darkness is God's purpose for your life. Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don't get sidetracked; your feet from following evil. Proverbs 4:25-27 NLT 2. ASK YOURSELF “What should I START doing” Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Ephesians 5:16-17 NIV Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it. James 4:17 NLT “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” Matthew 6:34 MSG 3. ASK YOURSELF “What AM I WAITING FOR” I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2 NLT People that procrastinate talk about a life of purpose. People who take initiative live a life of purpose. Why do you Matter? 1. You Matter to our Church God is looking for passionate disciples. I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the lord.” Psalms 122:1 NLT But the time is coming—indeed it's here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. John 4:23 NLT God is looking for compassionate disciples. For “Everyone who calls on the name of the lord will be saved.” But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, “How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!” Romans 10:13-15 NLT 2. You Matter to our Community Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. James 5:16 NLT Well our Church must become larger and smaller at the same time Small groups create 3 things we all need A place to Connect A place to Protect A place to Grow 3. You Matter to God There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other; But our bodies have many parts, and God has put each part just where he wants it… 1 Corinthians 12:4-7;18 When you live beyond yourself the meaning of life comes into focus and life has purpose! But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God. Acts 20:24 NLT

The Bible has been around for thousands of years, carefully translated and maintained for the benefit of people today. But where did we get it, and how do we know it's trustworthy?--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 --The Bible doesn't have to be intimidating. We encourage you to read the Bible for yourself and put it into practice. That's why we're doing this series. The first question that arises is: where did the Bible come from?The Bible Is Inspired by the Holy SpiritThe Bible is not just a book some religious or philosophical-type humans put together. It comes from God himself.2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT) All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.“Inspired by God” means “God-breathed.” So when you read the Bible, you are reading the Word of God. God is there with you when you read. You will encounter God in the Bible. For example, 2 Timothy tells us some of the ways God speaks to us in the Bible: he teaches us what is true; he opens our eyes to what is wrong in our lives; he corrects us when we are wrong; and he teaches us to not simply know the truth, but to do what is right. Jesus himself attested that the Bible is inspired by God. Mark 12:36 (NLT) “For David himself, speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, said…”Jesus then quoted Psalm 110. He believed that when David wrote that Psalm, he spoke under the Spirit's inspiration. Note what Jesus told Satan:Matthew 4:4 (NLT) “People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” His actions explain what he meant, because that very statement was a quote from Deuteronomy 8:3, and he quoted the Bible two more times to resist Satan's temptations.These passages lead us to hold a view called “verbal plenary inspiration”, which means that divine inspiration extends to the very words themselves, and to all parts of the Bible and all subject matters on which the Bible speaks. Thus the Bible (when interpreted according to the intended sense of the author) speaks truly and reliably in all that it affirms. It never leads us astray.Not only did the Holy Spirit inspire the Bible, the Holy Spirit also illuminates the Bible. He enlightens our hearts and minds as we read it. The Bible Was Written by Numerous Human AuthorsWhile it is the Word of God, it is also the words of human authors. The two are not mutually exclusive. God spoke through human authors, through their unique personalities, experiences, language, culture and time.The Bible is a product of divine authorship AND human authorship. Inspiration does not equal some kind of dictation. Authors were not like copyists or transcribers, writing down the words of someone dictating a letter. The Bible authors spoke in their own...

The Bible has been around for thousands of years, carefully translated and maintained for the benefit of people today. But where did we get it, and how do we know it's trustworthy?--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 --The Bible doesn't have to be intimidating. We encourage you to read the Bible for yourself and put it into practice. That's why we're doing this series. The first question that arises is: where did the Bible come from?The Bible Is Inspired by the Holy SpiritThe Bible is not just a book some religious or philosophical-type humans put together. It comes from God himself.2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT) All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.“Inspired by God” means “God-breathed.” So when you read the Bible, you are reading the Word of God. God is there with you when you read. You will encounter God in the Bible. For example, 2 Timothy tells us some of the ways God speaks to us in the Bible: he teaches us what is true; he opens our eyes to what is wrong in our lives; he corrects us when we are wrong; and he teaches us to not simply know the truth, but to do what is right. Jesus himself attested that the Bible is inspired by God. Mark 12:36 (NLT) “For David himself, speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, said…”Jesus then quoted Psalm 110. He believed that when David wrote that Psalm, he spoke under the Spirit's inspiration. Note what Jesus told Satan:Matthew 4:4 (NLT) “People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” His actions explain what he meant, because that very statement was a quote from Deuteronomy 8:3, and he quoted the Bible two more times to resist Satan's temptations.These passages lead us to hold a view called “verbal plenary inspiration”, which means that divine inspiration extends to the very words themselves, and to all parts of the Bible and all subject matters on which the Bible speaks. Thus the Bible (when interpreted according to the intended sense of the author) speaks truly and reliably in all that it affirms. It never leads us astray.Not only did the Holy Spirit inspire the Bible, the Holy Spirit also illuminates the Bible. He enlightens our hearts and minds as we read it. The Bible Was Written by Numerous Human AuthorsWhile it is the Word of God, it is also the words of human authors. The two are not mutually exclusive. God spoke through human authors, through their unique personalities, experiences, language, culture and time.The Bible is a product of divine authorship AND human authorship. Inspiration does not equal some kind of dictation. Authors were not like copyists or transcribers, writing down the words of someone dictating a letter. The Bible authors spoke in their own...

David stated in Psalm 24:1: The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. (NLT)    People tend to either believe God created the world or He didn't. And then if someone believes He did, the next step of faith is believing whether or not He is actively involved in the lives of the people walking on His planet.    King David was clear. The earth belongs to God. Everything in and on the earth belongs to God. The entire world and even all the people belong to Him. If we believe this to be true, then we are never actually owners of anything while we are here.    How do you view what you have, as you being the owner or the steward? How might being a steward change your mindset?    Listen once again to Psalm 24:1: The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. (NLT)    Let's offer a personalized version: What I have on the earth is the Lord's, and everything in my life. My world and all the people I know belong to him.    We know the old saying, “You can't take it with you when you go.” Just more evidence that we are merely borrowing everything we have while we are here. To trust God with our lives and to ask Him for help, we must first see everything as His and come to accept we are stewards of His blessings, responsible and accountable to Him.    Let's pray: “Father, I confess my world is yours and everything in it. Remind me every day that the world and all the people are yours. Help me to be a good steward of all I have and all You allow me to hold while I am here. As above, so below.” 

Bay Chapel is a life-giving church in the New Tampa community. We meet Sundays at 10:00 am and you are welcome to come anytime in person or online. Find out more at baychapel.com —---Subscribe to receive our latest messages. ——Stay Connected, ask for prayer and find out more.http://www.baychapel.com/connect——Bay Chapel exists to help people ‘Find God and Find Life' through a relationship with Jesus Christ. To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: http://www.baychapel.com/giveMessage Notes: Summer at Bay Chapel | July 9, 2023James 1:26 (TLB) Anyone who says he is a Christian but doesn't control his sharp tongue is just fooling himself, and his religion is worthless. √  The tongue is disproportionately powerful.James 3:3-4 (NLT) We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire.√  The tongue is inherently evil.James 3:5-6 (NIV) The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one's life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.√  The tongue is untamable. James 3:7-10 (NLT) People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! √  My words reveal what's in my heart. LIFE-GIVING WORDS  I. ALLOW GOD TO CHANGE MY HEART.Psalm 19:14 (NLT) May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.II. PUT A FILTER ON WHAT I ALLOW IN MY HEART.Matthew 12:34-35 (NIV) For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.III. SPEAK LIFE-GIVING WORDS. WORDS OF PRAISEProverbs 25:11 (CEV) The right word at the right time is like precious gold set in silver.WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENTEphesians 4:29 (GNT) Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you.WORDS OF HEALINGProverbs 15:4 (NIV) The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life…WORDS OF FAITHI John 5:14 (MSG) My purpose in writing is simply this: that you who believe in God's Son will know beyond the shadow of a doubt that you have eternal life…And how bold and free we then become in his presence, freely asking according to his will, sure that he's listening.

David stated in Psalm 24:1: The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. (NLT) People tend to either believe God created the world or He didn't. And then if someone believes He did, the next step of faith is believing whether or not He is actively involved in the lives of the people walking on His planet. King David was clear. The earth belongs to God. Everything in and on the earth belongs to God. The entire world and even all the people belong to Him. If we believe this to be true, then we are never actually owners of anything while we are here. How do you view what you have, as you being the owner or the steward? How might being a steward change your mindset? Listen once again to Psalm 24:1: The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. (NLT) Let's offer a personalized version: What I have on the earth is the Lord's, and everything in my life. My world and all the people I know belong to him. We know the old saying, “You can't take it with you when you go.” Just more evidence that we are merely borrowing everything we have while we are here. To trust God with our lives and to ask Him for help, we must first see everything as His and come to accept we are stewards of His blessings, responsible and accountable to Him. Let's pray: “Father, I confess my world is yours and everything in it. Remind me every day that the world and all the people are yours. Help me to be a good steward of all I have and all You allow me to hold while I am here. As above, so below.”

Text: Various Theme: While there may be times when anger is the appropriate response to injustice, most of the time anger just gets us in more trouble. This week we'll discover God's plan to deal with the wrong kind of anger in our lives. Key Verse: Proverbs 14:29 (NLT) People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness. Message Notes: https://my.bible.com/en-GB/events/48958526

The people we listen to have the power of formation in our lives. We form our thoughts from the things that we hear. From our thoughts, narratives are reformed, beliefs established, and our words create the culture of our lives. Elephant in the room: God is always talking to us. Are we listening? Barry and Keith discuss praying without ceasing and how to listen when God speaks. Email Barry with the results of your prayers. We want to listen. Got a question? Want advice? Email Barry at barry@fatherseekers.org -- Follow FatherSeekers Online https://fatherseekers.captivate.fm/fatherseekers-facebook (FS Facebook) https://fatherseekers.captivate.fm/fatherseekers-insta (FS Instagram) https://fatherseekers.captivate.fm/fatherseekers-youtube (FS YouTube) FatherSeekers goes beyond the podcast as a non-profit seeking to identify and address the social and generational outcomes of fatherlessness. Get discussion guides and even more content at https://fatherseekers.captivate.fm/fatherseekers-web (FS Website) -- References " I make a habit of praying throughout the day. Not only at a certain time; otherwise, I would also attribute my success to the hour I prayed. It's not just the hour; it's praying without ceasing. I must always have the anointing of the Holy Spirit. That requires praying without ceasing." Katheryn Kolman “But Jonah got up and went in the opposite direction to get away from the Lord. He went down to the port of Joppa, where he found a ship leaving for Tarshish. He bought a ticket and went on board, hoping to escape from the Lord by sailing to Tarshish.” -Jonah‬ ‭1:3‬ ‭NLT‬‬ “People in conversations will always communicate from the place of their perceived positioning and understanding.”

Lets share Good News together. To partner with us financially visit www.gospelchurch.co/give or text the word "FRESH" to 94000. Message Notes: 22 Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. 23 And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, 24 but the boat by this time was a long way[b] from the land,[c] beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. 25 And in the fourth watch of the night[d] he came to them, walking on the sea. 26 But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” – Matthew 14v22-27 (ESV) Your perspective has the power to change your position. After this I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven! And the first voice, which I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” – Revelation 4v1 (ESV) from the end of the earth I call to you when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I, – Psalm 63v2 (ESV) 1. Curiosity in our faith 28 And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” 29 He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. – Matthew 14v28-29 (ESV) 7 “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. – Matthew 7v7-8 (NLT) People who kept persisting Woman with the issue of blood (Mark 5) The Canaanite woman (Matthew 15) Elisha and Elijah (2 Kings 1,2) Jacob (Genesis 32) Jesus (Matthew 26) 2. Precision in our focus 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” 31 Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” – Matthew 14v30-31 (ESV) Mark 11v23 (ESV) Luke 8v24 (NLT) When you're in a storm: Don't forget your authority Don't abuse your authority Don't deny your authority 3. Grace in our failure Matthew 14v32-33 (ESV) Never let success get to your head, and never let failure get to your heart. Proverbs 24v16 (NLT) Romans 5v20 (ESV) 2 Corinthians 5v21 (ESV)

Isaiah 2:3 NLT People from many nations will come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of Jacob's God. There he will teach us his ways, and we will walk in his paths.” For the Lord's teaching will go out from Zion; his word will go […] The post THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS Pastor David Crammer January 9, 2022 first appeared on Covenant Life Church.

Inside Out: Week 5 AddictionFor five weeks, we will be tackling issues that have raged out of control over the last couple of years like anxiety, anger, depression, hurry and addiction. Our goal is to let God help us through these hard times, so that when challenges hit us and we start to feel it on the inside, we'll have the tools to work it out.Addiction can be to many different things and affects many people.Addiction is a personal attempt to solve an emotional problem.“I've learned that all people are addicts, that addictions to alcohol and other drugs are simply more obvious and tragic addictions than others have. To be alive is to be addicted, and to be alive and addicted is to stand in need of grace.” – Gerald May, Addiction and GraceThe Bible has a lot to say about addiction even without using the labels.Addiction is really the worship of a false idol.Romans 1:21-23, 25 (NLT) The people traded the truth of God for a lie.Isaiah 44:9-10, 19-20 (NLT) The people bought into a lie and worshipped something worthless.Addiction becomes a voluntary slaver with diminishing returns.Jeremiah 2:13 (NLT) The people abandoned God and tried to fill the hole with something that can never fill it.Romans 6:14 (NLT) People can live in the freedom of God's grace.To receive freedom and grace, you have to:1. Admit you have a problem.2. Allow God to meet your underlying need.For more resources, click here.  To support the mission of Hope Community Church, visit gethope.net/give today.

David stated in Psalm 24:1: The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. (NLT) People tend to either believe God created the world or He didn't. And then if someone believes He did, the next step of faith is believing whether or not He is actively involved in the lives of the people walking on His planet. King David was clear. The earth belongs to God. Everything in and on the earth belongs to God. The entire world and even all the people belong to Him. If we believe this to be true, then we are never actually owners of anything while we are here. How do you view what you have, as you being the owner or the steward? How might being a steward change your mindset? Listen once again to Psalm 24:1: The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. (NLT) Let's offer a personalized version: What I have on the earth is the Lord's, and everything in my life. My world and all the people I know belong to him. We know the old saying, “You can't take it with you when you go.” Just more evidence that we are merely borrowing everything we have while we are here. To trust God with our lives and to ask Him for help, we must first see everything as His and come to accept we are stewards of His blessings, responsible and accountable to Him. Let's pray: “Father, I confess my world is yours and everything in it. Remind me every day that the world and all the people are yours. Help me to be a good steward of all I have and all You allow me to hold while I am here. As above, so below.”

Emotions aren't bad - they're built-in.    God is emotional - we are created in the image of God.   Mark 3:5  He looked around at them in anger . . .   ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭14:29‬ ‭NLT‬‬ “People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness.” ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭2:11-12‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 11 One day, after Moses had grown up, he went out to where his own people were and watched them at their hard labor. He saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his own people. 12 Looking this way and that and seeing no one, he killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand.   Frame It   Why do I feel this way?    What does it reveal about my character and calling?  Funnel It    Where should I direct it?    Exodus 14:13–16 NIV 13 Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again.  14 The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”   15 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on. 16 Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground.   Numbers 20:11–12 NIV 11 Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank.  12 But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them.”   Filter It   What does the gospel say to it? Matthew‬ ‭5:21-24‬ ‭NIV‬‬ ““You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,' is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell. “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” Mark 3:1-6 Another time Jesus went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there.  2 Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath.  3 Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Stand up in front of everyone.” 4 Then Jesus asked them, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they remained silent. 5 He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored.  6 Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus.

Three Truths about the Tongue:1 - The Tongue is PowerfulJames 3:3-5a (NLT) – We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. 4 And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. 5 In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches.James 3:2b (NLT) – For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way.2 - The Tongue is DestructiveJames 3:5b-6 (NLT) – But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. 6 And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.James 3:6b (NLT) – …the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.Proverbs 16:27 (ESV) – A worthless man plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire.3 - The Tongue is Double-MindedJames 3:7-8 (NLT) – People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison.James 3:9-12 (NLT) – Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. 10 And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! 11 Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? 12 Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can't draw fresh water from a salty spring.Proverbs 18:21 (MSG) – Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit—you choose.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.  See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV) Message Title:  A Good Defense Then there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon and his angels.  And the dragon lost the battle, and he and his angels were forced out of heaven.  This great dragon—the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world—was thrown down to the earth with all his angels. Revelation 12:7-9 (NLT) Then I heard a loud voice shouting across the heavens, “It has come at last; salvation and power and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. Revelation 12:10 (NLT) For the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to earth; the one who accuses them before our God day and night. Revelation 12:10 (NLT) And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. Revelation 12:11 (NLT) When the dragon realized that he had been thrown down to the earth, he pursued the woman who had given birth to the male child…  And the dragon was angry at the woman and declared war against the rest of her children—all who keep God's commandments and maintain their testimony for Jesus. Revelation 12:13,17 (NLT) The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy… John 10:10 (NIV) I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10 (NIV) You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. Colossians 2:13 (NLT) He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. Colossians 2:14 (NLT) In this way, he disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross. Colossians 2:15 (NLT) While the people of Israel were still at Rephidim, the warriors of Amalek attacked them.  Moses commanded Joshua, “Choose some men to go out and fight the army of Amalek for us. Exodus 17:8-9 (NLT) “Tomorrow, I will stand at the top of the hill, holding the staff of God in my hand.” Exodus 17:9 (NLT) So Joshua did what Moses had commanded and fought the army of Amalek. Exodus 17:10 (NLT) Meanwhile, Moses, Aaron, and Hur climbed to the top of a nearby hill. 11 As long as Moses held up the staff in his hand, the Israelites had the advantage. But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites gained the advantage. Exodus 17:10-11 (NLT) Moses' arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset. Exodus 17:12 (NLT) As a result, Joshua overwhelmed the army of Amalek in battle. Exodus 17:13 (NLT) People who can see when the enemy is gaining ground. Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8 (NIV) Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.  Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7(NIV) Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8 (NIV) Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 1 Peter 5:9 (NIV) People who will push you when we want to give up. Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.  Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. Hebrews 10:23-24 (NLT) And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. Hebrews 10:25 (NLT) People who will help you hold on to what God has redeemed in you. …I am the Lord. I will free you from your oppression and will rescue you from your slavery in Egypt. I will redeem you with a powerful arm and great acts of judgment. Exodus 6:6 (NLT) I will claim you as my own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God who has freed you from your oppression in Egypt.  I will bring you into the land I swore to give… Exodus 6:7-8 (NLT)  Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God's Spirit is right alongside helping us along... He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That's why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good. Romans 8:26-28 (MSG) God knew what he was doing from the very beginning. He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love him along the same lines as the life of his Son. The Son stands first in the line of humanity he restored. We see the original and intended shape of our lives there in him. Romans 8:29-30 (MSG) Sometimes the thing God has redeemed in you can become the very thing you want to let go of. As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. Proverbs 27:17 (NLT) 

He went first to Nazareth, then left there and moved to Capernaum, beside the Sea of Galilee... From then on Jesus began to preach, “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.” Matthew 4:13, 17 (NLT) One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers—Simon, also called Peter, and Andrew—throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living.  Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!”  And they left their nets at once and followed him.  A little farther up the shore he saw two other brothers, James and John, sitting in a boat with their father, Zebedee, repairing their nets. And he called them to come, too.  They immediately followed him, leaving the boat and their father behind. Matthew 4:18-22 (NLT) Jesus traveled throughout the region of Galilee, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness.  News about him spread as far as Syria, and people soon began bringing to him all who were sick. And whatever their sickness or disease, or if they were demon possessed or epileptic or paralyzed—he healed them all.  Large crowds followed him wherever he went... Matthew 4:23-25 (NLT) 1. Occupy with VISION Without prophetic vision people run wild, but blessed are those who follow God's teachings. Proverbs 29:18 (GW) Without a clear vision for your life, you will just aimlessly wander. Jesus traveled through all the towns and villages of that area, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness.  When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.  Matthew 9:35-36 (NLT) He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few.  So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” Matthew 9:37-38(NLT) For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people's sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:19 (NLT) So we are Christ's ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!”  For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:19-21 (NLT) 2. Occupy with AUTHENTICITY …He asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” Matthew 16:13 (NLT) “Well,” they replied, “some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.”  Then he asked them, “But who do you say I am?” Matthew 16:14-15 (NLT) Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah the Son of the living God.” Matthew 16:16 (NLT) And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; Matthew 3:16 (ESV) and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:16-17 (ESV) God doesn't need you… God wants you. For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10(NLT) Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. Ephesians 4:1 (NLT) The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 (NLT) 3. Occupy with FAITHFULNESS “If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won't be honest with greater responsibilities.  And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven?  And if you are not faithful with other people's things, why should you be trusted with things of your own? Luke 16:10-12 (NLT) People should be shocked by the size of the vision in your heart AND by the dedication to the task in your hand. If you will be faithful with what God put in your hand, He'll make sure you fulfill what He has put in your heart. So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it… Romans 12:1-2The Message (MSG)

(Exodus 6:6-7) (NIV) “I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. I will free you from being slaves to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment. I will take you as my own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the LORD your God, who brought you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians.   The Cup of Deliverance.   (Galatians 5:1)(NIV) It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.   (Ephesians 2:8-9)(NLT) God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.   (Philippians 2:12-13)(NLT) Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.   Triune beings:   Body – Physical part…has issues…cravings, appetites, lusts etc. Mind – Thoughts, your free-will and emotions. Spirit – In His own image.   Results of Deliverance:   1. Victory over sin.   Sin: What we do to ourselves.   (Romans 7:21-25)(NIV) So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!   2. Healing from wounds.Wounds: What others do to us.   (Ephesians 4:26-27)(NLT) And “don't sin by letting anger control you.” Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.   3. Authority over the enemy.   (Ephesians 6:10-12)(NIV) Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.   (Romans 7:21-25)(NIV) So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!   (Romans 8:1)(NLT) So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.   (Romans 8:2)(NLT) And because you belong to him, the power of the lifegiving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.   (Romans 8:5-6)(NLT) Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.   What has the most influence on how we think?   Answer: Relationships.   The relationships I choose have a direct impact on my pursuit toward a fulfilling life.   (Proverbs 28:13)(NLT) People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.    (1 John 1:9)(NIV) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.   (James 5:16)(NLT) Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.

From Humbug To Whoville: Stressed, worried, anxious, or afraid? Have you lost the joy of Christmas? Join us for our Christmas series: From Humbug to Whoville and rediscover the JOY of Christmas. Theme Verse: (Isaiah 1:18) (NLT) “Come now, let's settle this,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. If you will only obey me, you will have plenty to eat.   Title:  Getting Past My Past   (John 8:44) (NLT) He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. Getting past our past will require us to stop believing the twisted lies of the enemy.   (Isaiah 1:18) (NLT) “Come now, let's settle this,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. If you will only obey me, you will have plenty to eat.   DEALING WITH THE PAST   1. We hide it (Proverbs 28:13) (NLT) People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy. 2. We beat ourselves up (Psalm 38:4-8) (NLT) My guilt overwhelms me—it is a burden too heavy to bear. My wounds fester and stink because of my foolish sins. I am bent over and racked with pain. All day long I walk around filled with grief. A raging fever burns within me, and my health is broken.  I am exhausted and completely crushed. My groans come from an anguished heart. (1 Timothy 1:12-13) (NLT) I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him,  even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief. (1 Timothy 1:14-15) (NLT) Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus. This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”—and I am the worst of them all.  (1 Timothy 1:16) (NLT) But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life.   Getting Past the Past:   1.    Receive the gift of grace (Ephesians 2:8-9) (NLT) God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.   2.    Replace the lies with the truth   (2 Corinthians 10:5) (NIV) We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.   (1 Corinthians 1:30) (NLT) Christ made us right with God; he made us pure and holy, and he freed us from sin. 3.    Rely on God to turn it around for good   (Romans 8:28) (NIV) And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.  (Genesis 50:20) (NIV) You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.

REALationships: Don't give up. Culture doesn't have to define your relationships. You can be honest and real. In this series, we're going to get real with relationships and build strong families. We'll take a look at how to be real in our marriage, friendships, relationships, family and community   Title of Message:  Let's Get Real The key ingredient to a successful relationship is authenticity.  4 REAL Relationships I need:      1. A REAL Relationship with God. 2. A REAL Relationship with Godly friends. 3. A REAL Relationship with Church. (Ephesians 2:19) (ESV) So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 4.        4. A REAL Relationship with a Team. (1 Corinthians 3:9) (GNT) For we are partners working together for God, (Colossians 2:19) (CEV) Christ gives the body its strength, and he uses its joints and muscles to hold it together, as it grows by the power of God.       Email or Text us at: ask@freedom-church.org 4 Results of REAL Godly Relationships: 1.    Encouragement (Hebrews 3:12-13) (CEV) My friends, watch out! Don't let evil thoughts or doubts make any of you turn from the living God.  You must encourage one another each day. 2.    Prayer (Colossians 4:12) (NIV) Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, (Colossians 4:12) (NIV) that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured. 3.    Authenticity (Proverbs 28:13) (NLT) People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy. (Ephesians 4:25) (NIV) Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 4.    Growth (Colossians 2:19) (CEV) Christ gives the body its strength, and he uses its joints and muscles to hold it together, as it grows by the power of God. (Romans 1:12) (NLT) When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours

The Prelude to the Dream is a throwback to the humble beginnings of what is now the biggest sport in America: professional stock car racing. The seventh annual event highlights modern-day superstars returning to the roots of car racing by competing on a dirt track in a dirt Late Model stock car. This event allows avid fans to not only see the origins of the sport, but to also experience racing's biggest names performing beyond their routine element. The drivers do not compete for points and winnings, but for charity.    The Prelude to the Dream is not only looking back to the humble beginnings of what is now known as Christianity, but living the dream each and every day.  Instead of superstars, God is asking every day, ordinary people to return to the roots of what it means to live by faith.  The goal is to not only see the origins of faith in scripture but also experience the true meaning of it.  The dream is to go beyond the routine way of living into the faith zone of living.  We do not seek to gain points or winnings but for God to receive all the glory.   (Joshua 10:12-14) “On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel: “O sun, stand still over Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon.” So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, till the nation avenged itself on its enemies, as it is written in the Book of Jashar. The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day. There has never been a day like it before or since, a day when the LORD listened to a man. Surely the LORD was fighting for Israel!”   The Faith Gap:   1.    Unchecked Habits   (Romans 8:2) (NLT) “And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.”   2.    Unhealthy Perspective   (Proverbs 16:2) (NLT) “People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives.”   3.    Unrealistic Expectations   (Romans 10:11) (NLT) “As the Scriptures tell us, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced.”   (Hebrews 4:16)  “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”   The key to the impossible becoming possible:   Believe that God can do a miracle.   (John 16:33) “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”   (Exodus 15:11) (GNT) “Lord, who among the gods is like you? Who is like you, wonderful in holiness? Who can work miracles and mighty acts like yours?”   (Micah 7:18) (GNT) “There is no other god like you, O Lord; you forgive the sins of your people who have survived. You do not stay angry forever, but you take pleasure in showing us your constant love.”

(1 Corinthians 6:12) “Everything is permissible for me”—but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible for me”—but I will not be mastered by anything.”   What has mastered you?   We're seeking to find what only God can provide in something besides God Himself.   5 Easy Ways to be an Addict.   1. Never admit you have a problem.   (Jeremiah 3:13) (NLT) “Only acknowledge your guilt. Admit that you rebelled against the Lord your God and committed adultery against him by worshiping idols under every green tree.”   2.  Gratify your fleshly desires.   (Galatians 5:16-17) “So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.  For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want.”   3.  Rationalize your behavior and make excuses.   (Luke 14:19-20) “The first said, ‘I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.' “Another said, ‘I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I'm on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.' “Still another said, ‘I just got married, so I can't come.'”   4. Always keep your addiction a secret   (Proverbs 28:13) “He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.”   5. Depend on your own power, never God's.   (Psalm 28:7) “The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.”   (2 Peter 2:19) (NLT) “They promise freedom, but they themselves are slaves of sin and corruption. For you are a slave to whatever controls you.”   (2 Corinthians 10:3-5) “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."   (2 Corinthians 12:9) (NLT) “Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.”   (Galatians 2:20) (NLT) “My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”   (Philippians 4:13) “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”   (Revelation 12:11) (GWT) “They won the victory over him because of the blood of the lamb and the word of their testimony. They didn't love their life so much that they refused to give it up.”   (Proverbs 28:13) (NLT) “People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.”   (James 5:16) “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.”   He alone meets every need I have.