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Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 15–16; Psalm 70; Revelation 6 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! On this first day of September, Hunter guides us through Ezekiel 15–16, Psalm 70, and Revelation 6. Ezekiel gives us a painful and deeply personal picture of God's relationship with his people. The prophet reaches for the language of family, marriage, abandonment, betrayal, and heartbreak to describe Israel's wandering. These are difficult images, but they reveal that God is not cold or detached. He is the God whose heart is moved by the suffering, rebellion, and loss of his children. Yet betrayal is not the end of the story. God promises to remember his covenant and restore the relationship that has been shattered. Psalm 70 gives voice to the urgent cry of those who need rescue: "O God, come quickly to help me." Revelation 6 then confronts us with the violence, fear, injustice, and devastation present within the world. Through all these passages, we are invited to see the persistent love of God. In Jesus, God enters our brokenness and bears its full weight in order to bring us home. The final word is not abandonment, revenge, or destruction. The final word is restoration. TODAY'S DEVOTION: The weight of betrayal and the depths of God's love. Ezekiel reaches for image after image to describe the heartbreak of God. One metaphor is not enough. He speaks of a parent who finds an abandoned child, cares for her, raises her, and gives her life. He speaks of a spouse whose love is rejected and betrayed. The language is harsh and unsettling because betrayal is harsh and unsettling. But Ezekiel does not want us to imagine a distant God who is unmoved by what happens in the world. He wants us to see the broken heart of God. God is not indifferent to our wandering. He is not cold in the face of human suffering. He is not untouched by violence, exploitation, selfishness, or the ways we wound one another. God loves. And because God loves, God grieves. The story Ezekiel tells is the story of a people who have received everything and then turned away from the One who gave it. They have forgotten their beginning. They have forgotten their rescue. They have forgotten the love that found them when they had nothing. Yet even here, God remembers. God remembers the covenant. God remains determined to restore what has been broken. That is the astonishing turn in the story. The end is not bitterness. The end is not endless vengeance. The end is restoration. It is a relationship made new. It is a covenant remembered. It is the wayward brought home. The prophet strains to describe this love, but ultimately we must look to Jesus. Jesus is God's love in flesh and blood. He is the clearest picture of the heart of God. In Jesus, God enters the full depth of our betrayal, rejection, violence, and shame. He does not remain at a safe distance. He comes near. He bears our wounds. He absorbs our hostility. He enters our death. And from within it all, he brings resurrection. This is the love that restores us. It is not sentimental love. It is not shallow approval. It is the fierce, suffering, forgiving love of God that refuses to abandon his creation. Revelation 6 gives us images of a world unraveling under the weight of conquest, violence, scarcity, death, and fear. It can feel frightening because it reflects so much of what we see around us. But the Lamb is still at the center of the story. The One who opened the seals is the One who was slain. The Judge of the world is the Lamb who gave himself for the world. That changes how we understand everything. God's purpose is not to discard his creation but to heal it. God's intention is not to surrender the world to death but to make all things new. So when Psalm 70 cries, "O God, come quickly to help me," we can pray it with confidence. God has come. God is coming. God is present even now, working within the ruins to restore what has been lost. May we awaken today to the depth of this love. May we see that we are not abandoned. May we trust that our failures do not have the final word. The final word belongs to the God who remembers, restores, and makes all things new. That's the prayer I have for my own soul. That's the prayer I have for my family, for my wife, my daughters, and my son. And that's the prayer I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

CLICK HERE FOR PRAYER OF CREATION & CHARITY-----SCRIPTUREGalatians 2: 20 REFLECTION- Fr. RonMUSIC- Polar by GjeiloNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God,into Your hands I surrender my life.Pour out Your Spirit upon methat I may love You perfectly,and serve You faithfullyuntil my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 91:11 “For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” REFLECTION- SarahMUSIC- Embers by Max Richter- Message to Bears - Running Through WoodlandNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God,into Your hands I surrender my life.Pour out Your Spirit upon methat I may love You perfectly,and serve You faithfullyuntil my soul rests in You.

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION “I miss my home, [although I] don't remember it. Sometimes, I perceive a glimmer of it nonetheless. A longing for a feeling I can't remember or even name. But I know it's real, just beyond the sunset.”~The Stranger, Rings of Power S02E01 “But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.”~2 Peter 3:13 “You are both free and bound. Free, paradoxically, because, now, you have a home… And bound: to that mystery, precisely, a bondage which liberates you into something of the glory and suffering of the world.”~Zadie Smith, contemporary English writer “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”~John 1:14SERMON PASSAGEPsalm 85 (ESV)1 Lord, you were favorable to your land;   you restored the fortunes of Jacob.2 You forgave the iniquity of your people;   you covered all their sin.                      Selah3 You withdrew all your wrath;   you turned from your hot anger. 4 Restore us again, O God of our salvation,   and put away your indignation toward us!5 Will you be angry with us forever?   Will you prolong your anger to all generations?6 Will you not revive us again,   that your people may rejoice in you?7 Show us your steadfast love, O Lord,   and grant us your salvation. 8 Let me hear what God the Lord will speak,   for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints;   but let them not turn back to folly.9 Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him,   that glory may dwell in our land. 10 Steadfast love and faithfulness meet;   righteousness and peace kiss each other.11 Faithfulness springs up from the ground,   and righteousness looks down from the sky.12 Yes, the Lord will give what is good,   and our land will yield its increase.13 Righteousness will go before him   and make his footsteps a way.

SCRIPTURE- Nehemiah 8:10 “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”REFLECTION- Sr. CarolMUSIC- O Sanctissima- MagnificatNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God,into Your hands I surrender my life.Pour out Your Spirit upon methat I may love You perfectly,and serve You faithfullyuntil my soul rests in You.

“Have mercy upon me, O God.” — Psalm 51:1 When Dr. Carey was suffering from a dangerous illness, the enquiry was made, “If this sickness should prove fatal, what passage would you select as the text for your funeral sermon?” He replied, “Oh, I feel that such a poor sinful creature is unworthy to have […]

SCRIPTURE- Isaiah 55:8“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.” REFLECTION- PeggyMUSIC-NOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God,into Your hands I surrender my life.Pour out Your Spirit upon methat I may love You perfectly,and serve You faithfullyuntil my soul rests in You.

❖ Today's Bible reading is Psalm 45: www.ESV.org/Psalm45 ❖ To read along with the podcast, grab a print copy of the devotional: www.crossway.org/books/in-the-lord-i-take-refuge-hcj/ ❖ Browse other resources from Dane Ortlund: www.crossway.org/authors/dane-c-ortlund/

SCRIPTURE- Proverbs 1:7“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”REFLECTION- Fr. JimMUSIC- "Hands Be Still" by Ólafur Arnalds- "Awesome God" by Taryn HarbridgeNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God,into Your hands I surrender my life.Pour out Your Spirit upon methat I may love You perfectly,and serve You faithfullyuntil my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Matthew 24:13 "But the one who stands firm to the end will be saved." REFLECTION- UmbertoMUSIC- "Hammock" by Vaughn Harrison- "Holy, Holy, Holy" by Jay StockerNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God,into Your hands I surrender my life.Pour out Your Spirit upon methat I may love You perfectly,and serve You faithfullyuntil my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Hebrews 10:36 "For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised." REFLECTION- Sr. KaraMUSIC-NOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God,into Your hands I surrender my life.Pour out Your Spirit upon methat I may love You perfectly,and serve You faithfullyuntil my soul rests in You.

Welcome to Day 2934 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2934– “The Kingdom of Light and the Kingdom of Darkness” – Luke 11:14-28 Putnam Church Message – 08/16/2026 The Good News According to Luke: “The Kingdom of Light and the Kingdom of Darkness.”   Last week, our message was “Lord, Teach Us To Pray,” and we learned Prayer is where our hearts are trained to live with God. Today, we continue with our thirtieth-fourth message from Luke's narrative of the Good News of Jesus Christ. Today's message is: “The Kingdom of Light and the Kingdom of Darkness.” Our core passage today is Luke 11:14-28, starting on page 1614 of your pew Bibles. Jesus and Beelzebul 14 Jesus was driving out a demon that was mute. When the demon left, the man who had been mute spoke, and the crowd was amazed. 15 But some of them said, “By Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he is driving out demons.” 16 Others tested him by asking for a sign from heaven. 17 Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them: “Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and a house divided against itself will fall. 18 If Satan is divided against himself, how can his kingdom stand? I say this because you claim that I drive out demons by Beelzebul. 19 Now if I drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your followers drive them out? So then, they will be your judges. 20 But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. 21 “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are safe. 22 But when someone stronger attacks and overpowers him, he takes away the armor in which the man trusted and divides up his plunder. 23 “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. 24 “When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.' 25 When it arrives, it finds the house swept clean and put in order. 26 Then it goes and takes seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first.” 27 As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, “Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you.” 28 He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” Opening Prayer Most High God, Creator of heaven and earth, You alone are worthy of worship. You rule over everything seen and unseen. No spiritual power rivals You; no throne challenges Your sovereignty; no darkness can extinguish Your light. Lord Jesus, open our eyes today to the larger story of Your Kingdom. Help us understand the spiritual battle without becoming fascinated with darkness or fearful of the enemy. Holy Spirit, fill us with truth. Protect us from deception. Teach us to hear the Word of God and obey it. May Your Kingdom come more fully in us, through us, and around us. In the victorious name of Jesus Christ, amen. Introduction: There Is More Going On Than We Can See Most of what people in our culture know about Satan, demons, and angels probably comes from movies, novels, television programs, and video games. And popular culture usually makes one of two mistakes. / Either the supernatural becomes fantasy — something primitive people once believed before science enlightened us. / Or the supernatural becomes entertainment — angels, demons, ghosts, and evil spirits made frightening enough to sell movie tickets. The Bible gives us neither picture. / Scripture presents an unseen spiritual realm as every bit as real as the world we can see. / But we need to say something immediately. Satan is not God's opposite. There is no eternal yin and yang. / There are not two equally powerful kingdoms battling to see which one survives. / God has no equal. / Everything else — visible or invisible — is created. / That includes angels. / That includes the heavenly host. That includes Satan. / That includes every rebellious spiritual power. And this is where one of my Biblical mentors, the late Dr. Michael Heiser, called the Divine Council worldview helps us recover something the ancient biblical writers simply assumed their readers understood. The Old Testament describes God presiding over a heavenly assembly. / Psalm 82 pictures God standing in the divine council. / Psalm 89 speaks of the assembly of heavenly beings. Job opens with the “sons of God” presenting themselves before the Lord. / First Kings 22 gives us a glimpse of the heavenly host surrounding God's throne. / But these beings are never equal to God/Yahweh. Think of a king and his royal court. The existence of a court does not diminish the king. The biblical God is Creator. / Everything else was created. / He possesses authority inherently. / They possess only whatever authority He delegates. / He alone is worthy of worship. But some of those spiritual beings rebelled.  / And when we follow that thread through Scripture, suddenly Luke 11 becomes much larger than one demon being cast out of one mute man. We discover that Jesus has walked onto the battlefield of a war that stretches back to Eden. And the King has come to reclaim what was lost. The Larger Story: Three Rebellions and One Divine Rescue Mission Before we enter Luke 11, let me give you the broad biblical picture. / We do not need to become Bible scholars this morning. Just remember three moments. Eden: / Genesis 3 records humanity's rebellion. / The supernatural rebel (referred to as a serpent or “shining one”) deceives Eve and challenges God's goodness. Humanity joins the rebellion. / Death enters human experience. / Humankind becomes alienated from God. The Days Before the Flood: / Genesis 6 describes another supernatural transgression involving the “sons of God,” cohabiting with the “daughters of the earth,” which produced the Nephilim, followed by extraordinary corruption and violence. / Whatever questions remain about every detail; Scripture is showing us that human rebellion and supernatural rebellion become intertwined. Babel: / Then comes Genesis 11. Humanity gathers in defiance of God's command to spread throughout the earth. God scatters the nations. / Deuteronomy 32 looks back on that event and describes the Most High dividing humanity according to members of the heavenly court, while Israel becomes the Lord's own portion. In other words, the nations rebelled against God, and God gave them over. / But those spiritual rulers themselves became corrupt. / Psalm 82 pictures God judging them because they ruled unjustly. / And listen to the final prayer of Psalm 82: “Rise up, O God, and judge the earth, for all the nations belong to you.” There is the hope. / God intends to reclaim the nations. / Immediately after Babel, Genesis 12 introduces Abraham. / God tells Abraham that through his family all the families of the earth will be blessed. God is launching a rescue mission. / Israel would become the nation through which the Messiah would come. / And through the Messiah, the nations would be reclaimed. Now remember what has happened recently in Luke. /...

SCRIPTURE- Leviticus 19:17-18“You shall not hate your brother in your heart. You shall surely rebuke your neighbor, and not bear sin because of him. You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord.”REFLECTION- MikeMUSIC- "Before the Throne of God Above" by Jonathan Roth- "I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say" by Sunday 7pm ChoirNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God,into Your hands I surrender my life.Pour out Your Spirit upon methat I may love You perfectly,and serve You faithfullyuntil my soul rests in You.

One of the most dangerous things we can do is hide our vulnerabilities instead of bringing them into the light. Sometimes the patterns we defend are the very patterns God is trying to expose. Anger. Pride. Fear. Resentment. Justification. We can become so accustomed to unhealthy behavior that we don't even recognize it anymore—especially when it was part of the environment we grew up in. The real question isn't, “Am I better than I used to be?” It's: “Am I representing Christ in the way I respond today?” Don't let pride, fear, or the desire to appear strong keep you from confronting what's happening inside your heart. Pray for God to open your eyes. Ask Him to expose the agreements, wounds, and patterns that you've normalized. Then have the courage to surrender them. True strength isn't pretending you have no weaknesses. It's allowing Christ to transform them. “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts.” — Psalm 139:23 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. To see more, be sure to subscribe to the podcast at

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“The deepest problems of modern life derive from the claim of the individual to preserve the autonomy and individuality of his existence.” ~Georg Simmel (1858-1918), German sociologist, philosopher, and critic “Faith does not eliminate questions. But faith knows where to take them.”~Elizabeth Elliot (1926-2015), missionary, author, and speaker “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.”~Corrie ten Boom (1892-1983), Dutch survivor of a Nazi death camp “The condition of the Psalmist's mind was complex—he feared, but that fear did not fill the whole area of his mind.... It is possible, then, for fear and faith to occupy the mind at the same moment. We are strange beings, and our experience in the divine life is stranger still. We are often in a twilight, where light and darkness are both present and it is hard to tell which predominates. It is a blessed fear which drives us to trust. Unregenerate fear drives from God, gracious fear drives to him.”~Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892), famed London pastor “Stand fast in the faith, and love one another, all of you, and be not offended at my sufferings.”~Reported to be the last words of Perpetua (c.182-c.203), a 22-year-old noblewoman and new mother, killed for her Christian faith in Carthage (modern-day Tunisia) “Loving God—really loving Him—means living out His commands no matter what the cost.”~Charles Colson (1931-2012), attorney, political advisor, convicted felon, advocate for prison reform, and midlife convert to Christ “…reason is not king in human beings, the heart is. Therefore, to change your actions, you must change your desires. But your desires will change, only if the Holy Spirit who wrote the Bible also writes his laws on your heart.”~John Ashley Null, theologian at Humboldt University Berlin and North African Bishop “The faith of the church must be tried by God's word, and not God's word by the church; neither yet my faith.”~Jane Grey (1537-1554), English noblewoman and very brief de facto monarch of EnglandSERMON PASSAGEPsalm 56 (ESV)To the choirmaster: according to The Dove on Far-off Terebinths. A Miktam of David, when the Philistines seized him in Gath.1 Be gracious to me, O God, for man tramples on me;  all day long an attacker oppresses me;2 my enemies trample on me all day long,   for many attack me proudly.3 When I am afraid,   I put my trust in you.4 In God, whose word I praise,   in God I trust; I shall not be afraid.   What can flesh do to me? 5 All day long they injure my cause;   all their thoughts are against me for evil.6 They stir up strife, they lurk;   they watch my steps,   as they have waited for my life.7 For their crime will they escape?   In wrath cast down the peoples, O God! 8 You have kept count of my tossings;   put my tears in your bottle.   Are they not in your book?9 Then my enemies will turn back    in the day when I call.   This I know, that God is for me.10 In God, whose word I praise,   in the Lord, whose word I praise,11 in God I trust; I shall not be afraid.   What can man do to me? 12 I must perform my vows to you, O God;   I will render thank offerings to you.13 For you have delivered my soul from death,   yes, my feet from falling,  that I may walk before God   in the light of life.1 Samuel 21 10 And David rose and fled that day from Saul and went to Achish the king of Gath. 11 And the servants of Achish said to him, “Is not this David the king of the land? Did they not sing to one another of him in dances,         ‘Saul has struck down his thousands,          and David his ten thousands'?” 12 And David took these words to heart and was much afraid of Achish the king of Gath. 13 So he changed his behavior before them and pretended to be insane in their hands and made marks on the doors of the gate and let his spittle run down his beard. 14 Then Achish said to his servants, “Behold, you see the man is mad. Why then have you brought him to me? 15 Do I lack madmen, that you have brought this fellow to behave as a madman in my presence? Shall this fellow come into my house?”

SCRIPTURE- Colossians 3:23“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”REFLECTION- LaurenMUSIC- Holy is His Name by 7pm Sunday Choir (YouTube)NOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God,into Your hands I surrender my life.Pour out Your Spirit upon methat I may love You perfectly,and serve You faithfullyuntil my soul rests in You.

August 22, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Trinity 12 - Psalm 70:2b, 4a, 5b; antiphon: Psalm 70:1-2aDaily Lectionary: 1 Kings 2:1-27; 1 Corinthians 14:1-16:24; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13“You are my help and my deliverer; O Lord, do not delay!” (Psalm 70:5)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Psalm 70 expresses a prayer that every believer in God has prayed: “Help!” “Make haste, O God, to deliver me! O Lord, make haste to help me!” (v. 1). It is the most basic and sincerest prayer.What the exact situation of David, the author of the Psalm, was, we do not know. David had his sworn enemies. He had conquered rivals within Israel and many from other nations as well. The number of men slain by him was in the thousands. As a result, many people were out to get him. People who, as he put it, “delighted in my hurt.” (vs. 2)Some might think that a man like King David wouldn't need any help taking care of his enemies. Remember how quickly he dispatched Goliath? David could handle himself. Who would David have been afraid of? But David knew that his successes in battle were only a gift from God.For example, when they tried talking him out of fighting Goliath, he told them, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” And during the pre-battle trash-talking, David told Goliath, “You come to me with a sword … but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down…” (1st Samuel 17:45-46). David didn't trust in his own strength, but he relied on God, his help and deliverer.You probably haven't had anyone plot to kill you (and hopefully, you never will!) Yet, you can still relate to the need to be rescued from your enemies. Have you had kids put you down to build themselves up? Have they said unkind things? Made fun of you in front of others? Mocked you behind your back? Teenagers can be cruel. While going through these situations is no fun, take heart, cry out to God for help, and the Lord will deliver you, too. In fact, the Lord God Almighty has already delivered you from your greatest enemies: sin and death. Jesus, the Son of David, fought Satan and defeated him. He gave Himself up for you on the cross, and His victory over the grave in His resurrection is complete and final. Now all who are in Him are delivered and will be forever. Therefore, rejoice and be glad in Him and say evermore: “God is great!” (vs. 4)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Seek Him alone Who did atone, Who did your souls deliver. O seek Him first, All you who thirst For grace that fails you never. In ev'ry need Seek Him indeed; To every heart He will impart His blessings without measure. (LSB 557:3)Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

Maurine and I have been blessed to attend many temple dedications all over the world. There is nothing so joyful as seeing the Saints gather to see these beautiful Houses of the Lord dedicated and made available for the work of the dead and the living. No matter where we are or what language is spoken, the unifying feeling comes from the music that is sung both outside and inside the temple and the Spirit that follows. “High on the mountain top, A banner is unfurled, Ye nations now look up, it waves to all the world!” (Hymns, no. 5) a choir sings as the Prophet comes out of the building to set the coverstone and talk to the Saints. “We thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet to guide us in these latter days,” the Saints sing with all their hearts as tears are streaming down their faces. “On this day of joy and gladness, Lord, we praise thy holy name; In this sacred place of worship, We thy glories loud proclaim! Alleluia, Alleluia, Bright and clear our voices ring, Singing songs of exultation To our Maker, Lord, and King!” (Hymns, no. 64) You can all picture this, can't you? Well, in order to understand more clearly our study of the Psalms, you have to realize the Psalms were mostly sung, and most of the time at the Temple in ancient times!

SCRIPTURE- 2 Thessalonians 3:13 "As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good." REFLECTION- Sr. M. KarolynMUSIC-Eye Has Not Seen-Be Present At Our Table, O LordNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God,into Your hands I surrender my life.Pour out Your Spirit upon methat I may love You perfectly,and serve You faithfullyuntil my soul rests in You.

CLICK HERE to see Brian's short vocation video on YouTubeHis email: brianjohnson@kenrick.eduSCRIPTURE- Isaiah 64:8 "Yet you, Lord, are our Father.  We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand." REFLECTION- Brian Johnson, SeminarianMUSIC- New Dawn by Jay Stocker- Instrumental Worship by GuitarNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God,into Your hands I surrender my life.Pour out Your Spirit upon methat I may love You perfectly,and serve You faithfullyuntil my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Philippians 3:13-14  "Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." REFLECTION- Sr. CharleneMUSIC- Keep Me Safe, O God by Foley (sung my 7pm Sunday Choir)- Just As I Am by David NevueNOTES- PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 71:5-6  "For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O LORD, from my youth. Upon you I have leaned from before my birth; you are he who took me from my mother's womb. My praise is continually of you." REFLECTION- Mary EllynMUSIC- "In Search of Love" by The Mountain- "Be Not Afraid" by The O'Neill Brothers Group- "Ode to Joy" by The O'Neill Brothers GroupNOTES- Converting Fear Into Faith in God by Mary EllynPRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Romans 15:4  “For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” REFLECTION- JavierMUSIC- "Praise To The Lord, The Almighty" by Mark Magnuson- "So Will I" by Hillsong NOTES- PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

HOW TO MAKE MY MARRIAGE BETTER Proverbs 14:1 The WISE woman builds her house, but with her own hands the FOOLISH one TEARS HERS DOWN (NIV) Proverbs 24:3–4 By WISDOM a house is built, and through understanding it is established; 4 through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures (NIV) James 3:13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from WISDOM (NIV) 1. GROWING MARRIAGES CHOOSE HUMILITY OVER PRIDE 2. GROWING MARRIAGES REJECT ENVY AND SELFISHNESS James 3:14–15 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic (NIV) 2A. BITTER ENVY TURNS PARTNERS INTO COMPETITORS 2B. BITTER ENVY KILLS CELEBRATION 2C. BITTER ENVY PRODUCES EMOTIONAL DISTANCE 2D. SELFISH AMBITION WILL ALSO RUIN A MARRIAGE 2E. SELFISH AMBITION REPLACES SERVANTHOOD WITH SELF-CENTEREDNESS 2F. SELFISH AMBITION MAKES ONE SPOUSE’S NEEDS MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE OTHER SPOUSE’S 2G. SELFISH AMBITION CAN CREATE RESENTMENT 2H. SELFISH AMBITION CREATES CONTROL AND MANIPULATION 2I. SELFISH AMBITION PUSHES GOD OUT OF THE CENTER 3. BITTER ENVY AND SELFISH AMBITION PRODUCE DISORDER AND EVIL James 3:16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice (NIV) 3A. CONSTANT ARGUING 3B. CONSTANT EMOTIONAL INSTABILITY 3C. COMMUNICATION IS CONDESCENDING 3D. THERE’S DIVISION 3E. IT LEADS TO EVERY EVIL PRACTICE 4. GROWING A BETTER MARRIAGE REQUIRES APPLYING GODLY WISDOM James 3:17 But the wisdom from above is FIRST pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere (ESV) 4A. PURE Psalm 51:10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me (NIV) 4B. PEACEABLE 4C. GENTLE Proverbs 15:1 A GENTLE answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (NIV) 4D. OPEN TO REASON 4E. FULL OF MERCY 4F. FULL OF GOOD FRUITS 4G. IMPARTIAL 4H. SINCERE

SCRIPTURE- Luke 2:19 "But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart."REFLECTION- UmbertoMUSIC- Hail Holy Queen- As I Kneel Before You by Marian Morning Playlist on YouTubeNOTES- PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- James 1:12 "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him."REFLECTION- Sr. KathleenMUSIC- "Èmois (Doux)" by Jordan Critz- "Where Charity and Love Prevail" by Tom Harder- "The Summons" written by John L. BellWill you come and follow me if I but call your name?Will you go where you don't know and never be the same?Will you let my love be shown?Will you let my name be known?Will you let my life be grown in youAnd you in me?Will you leave yourself behind if I but call your name?Will you care for cruel and kind and never be the same?Will you risk the hostile stareShould your life attract or scare?Will you let me answer prayer in youAnd you in me?Will you let the blinded see if I but call your name?Will you set the prisoners free and never be the same?Will you kiss the leper cleanAnd do such as this unseen?And admit to what I mean in youAnd you in me?Will you love the "you" you hide if I but call your name?Will you quell the fear inside and never be the same?Will you use the faith you've foundTo reshape the world aroundThrough my sight and touch and sound in youAnd you in me?Lord, your summons echoes true when you but call my nameLet me turn and follow you and never be the sameIn your company I'll goWhere your love and footsteps showThus I'll move and live and grow in youAnd you in meNOTES- PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

“My heart is confident in you, O God; my heart is confident. No wonder I can sing your praises!” (Psalm 57:7 NLT) He came from the humblest of beginnings and rose to become the greatest king in Israel’s history. In battle, he was fearless. As a ruler, he was without peer. God once referred to him as a man after His own heart. I’m speaking, of course, of David: shepherd, psalmist, musician, protector, warrior, giant-killer, and monarch. David’s story is one of the most familiar in all of Scripture, and for good reason. David is someone most people can relate to. He was an underdog, someone who was overlooked by others. He was bullied and found himself in situations that were beyond his control. He tried to do what was right but wasn’t above making some really bad decisions. Yet God used him to accomplish some incredible things. And as we look at David’s story, we can get some clues as to the type of people God uses. First, God uses ordinary people. The Lord prefers to work in and through ordinary people to do extraordinary things. That way, the people who witness those extraordinary things won’t be confused about who accomplished them. God wants to make sure that people give credit to Him rather than to human beings. The apostle Paul suffered from an affliction that he called “a thorn in my flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7 NLT). Three times he asked God to take it away. “Each time [God] said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now [Paul was] glad to boast about [his] weaknesses, so that the power of Christ [could] work through [him]” (verse 9 NLT). Paul’s affliction made him ordinary, which allowed the extraordinary work of God to be magnified through him. Just as surely as God used Paul’s ordinary affliction and plucked David, an ordinary shepherd boy, from obscurity, He is looking for people today through whom He can show His strength. Second, God uses spiritually focused people. David wrote, “My heart is confident in you, O God; my heart is confident. No wonder I can sing your praises!” (Psalm 57:7 NLT). His confidence came from keeping his eyes on God rather than on his circumstances, and he experienced the blessings that come from that kind of faith. God may not give you everything you hope for in life, or He may give you far more than you ever imagined. Either way, your responsibility is to trust Him, leave the results in His hands, and put Him first. That’s exactly what David did. Third, God uses people who are content in Him. As a young boy, David’s primary responsibility was to ensure the safety of sheep. David figured that if watching sheep was what God wanted him to do, then he would do the best job he could. Did he dream of one day doing great things for God? We can’t know for sure, but we do know that David was content in whatever God called him to do. Like David, we are all ordinary people. There’s no shame in that. As long as we’re willing to be faithful in what God has set before us and willing to be content in whatever God asks from us, God will use us. And sometimes He’ll do it in extraordinary ways. Reflection question: How can you make yourself available for God to use? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Start With Love Psalm 63:1 “O God, you are my God, I seek you, my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.” When I read this verse, I thought it did a great job explaining our yearning for God.  We all need God in our lives.  We are desperate to have him in our lives.  This verse shows this in a way I don't think I could.  It also helps me realize how much I need God.  Have you ever read something and then realized that was exactly how you felt, and you didn't really know it before you read it?  I knew I loved God, and I knew I longed for God.  However, I couldn't describe it until I read this verse.  My soul thirsts for Him.  My flesh faints for Him as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.  There is no water if God is not in my life.  My life is a dry and weary land when I don't call upon God.   Carrie Underwood has a song called “What I Never Knew I Always Wanted.”  I have not heard this song before, and yet I found it today while looking up something.  This song was not written about Jesus.  I believe it was written about her child, judging from the other words.  However, the chorus speaks to how many of us feel about Jesus.  The chorus says: I finally found what I never knew I always wanted I couldn't see; I was blind 'til my eyes were opened I didn't know there was a hole Something missing in my soul 'Til you filled it up with your love I think so many people are walking around this world right now, and they don't know God is what they have always wanted.  They know they have a hole; they know something is missing in their soul, and yet they don't know what it is.  I like the line; I couldn't see; I was blind 'til my eyes were opened.  How can we help them open their eyes?  The next line in this chorus might be giving us the answer to that very question.  I didn't know there was a hole, something missing in my soul, ‘till you filled it up with your love.  What if we worked on filling people up with love?  What if we showed people so much love that they realized that it was what they had been missing in their lives?   We can't fill them up with our love, though.  Our love is broken and judgmental.  Our love is not perfect love; it is flawed, and it can hurt others, even when we don't want to.  However, if we filled them up with God's Love, the love of Jesus, they would feel an unconditional love that would fill the hole in their soul.  I know you are already asking yourself, how do I do that?  How do I love with Jesus' love and not my own love? I know you are asking this because I am asking this, too.  We are all called to be a reflection of Jesus.  We are called to love like He loved.  How did Jesus love?  We can't be expected to love like Jesus if we don't know how He loved.  The best way to know this is to look back at scripture.   Jesus Christ set a perfect example of kindness and love. Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus showed His love for others by blessing and serving the poor, the sick, and the distressed.  Jesus did not run away from the leapers as most people did at the time.  He touched them, and He healed them.  He did not turn away anyone who needed help.  How can we show Jesus' love to others like this?  How can we bless and serve the poor, the sick, and the distressed?  Some people listening to this can go out and volunteer at a soup kitchen or a food pantry.  Maybe you would rather volunteer at a hospital or somewhere you can help out with people who are sick.  Maybe you would like to be a hospice volunteer and sit with those that are dying and have no one to be with them.  However, others are listening, and you are thinking your days of helping the poor or the sick are over because you can't get out of the house to volunteer anywhere.  I assure you, your days of helping are not over. They have just changed.  Now, instead of going and doing the volunteer work by hand, you can pray for those in need, and you can pray for people to answer God's call to go and help.  St. Terese of Lisieux is the patron saint of missions, even though she was never healthy enough to go on one.  She didn't let her health stop her from praying for everyone who could go on missions.   Jesus also showed his love for others by not making people feel bad for their actions or who they were.  God didn't condemn the tax collectors or the Roman soldiers.  He didn't condemn the woman who was caught in adultery or the woman at the well who had been married several times and was living with a man she was not married to.  In the beginning, the Love Jesus had for everyone brought people to Christianity.  People found a love they had not known before when they found Jesus.  They were used to rules and judgment.  They were used to following God, which required so much of them.  They found this new religion fascinating.  A religion where God just wanted to love you and to be loved.  He did not require much on your part. People could come as they were.  They were not expected to be perfect because Jesus set the bar when he said in Mark 2:17, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.”   The apostles were not going out and only talking to the Jewish people who knew God and were already following the laws.  They were talking to everyone who would listen, and they were preaching about God's love.  Who doesn't want to be loved?  Who doesn't want to be accepted?  I think we have lost this idea of talking about God's love somewhere along the way.  Somewhere along the way, we started talking more about the legalistic side of Christianity, especially Catholicism, than we do about the love Jesus had for everyone.  Yes, there is a right and a wrong way to live.  God tells us what the right and wrong way is in His Scripture.  However, we will never get a chance to show people the benefit of living God's way if we don't start loving them right where they are at first.  People want to be accepted for who they are, and they want to be met where they are at.  Jesus didn't tell the tax collectors He would have dinner with them when they changed their lifestyle.  He loved them while they were sinners and told them He had so much more for them.   If people feel loved and accepted, they will be open to hearing what you have to say.  We want people to know all the things Jesus says.  We want people to live according to God's ways, and we want this because we care about their souls.  This is a great thing.  I am not saying we are wrong to care about the way people are living their lives.  I am saying if we want to save their soul, we need to start with loving them just as they are.  The way to get people to want to save their own souls, which is the only way anything will change, is by being a reflection of God's love.  Love them as Jesus does.  Love them in all their imperfections and all their messiness of life.  Do not continually tell them they need to change who they are; shower them with so much love, tell them about Jesus and how much He loves them, just as they are, and pray for them.  Your prayers will do so much more than your nagging will.  If people feel judged, they will not ask questions; they will not be open to hearing anything we have to say.  I believe what God needs most from us is not us judging others and trying to talk them into changing their behaviors.  What He needs most from us is our loving others like Jesus did.  He needs us to love them so much they ask themselves, “How can I love as much as that person does?  How can I love so unconditionally?  How can I be so accepting of people?  How can I love so freely?”  When they ask those questions, then they will be open to hearing about the Gospel and about a God who loves them completely.  Can we do that?  Can we love others like Jesus did?  Can we lead with love first? Dear Heavenly Father, I ask you to bless all those listening to this episode today.  Lord, we long for you just as the verse says. Our souls thirst for you as one would thirst for water in a dry land.  Lord, we love you, and we want to bring others into a personal relationship with you.  Help us do this.  Please help us to understand how to love others as you did.  Show us where in our lives we are falling short of this, Lord.  Give us the strength to hold our tongue and to not nag our loved ones to do what we want them to do.  We are coming from a loving place, Lord; we want to save their souls.  Yet we know you are the only one to do that, Lord. Help us to learn to say less to the person and pray more to you. Help us to truly turn them over to your loving care, Lord.  You care more about their souls than we ever could.  Help us, Lord; we are trying.  We are so grateful for all you do.  You give light to our lamps, and you brighten the darkness about us.  You are the word of God, and you are the word of life.  We love you, Lord, and we ask all of this in accordance with your will and in Jesus' holy name. Amen.   Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus.  I look forward to spending time with you tomorrow.  Have a blessed day! www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

SCRIPTURE- Galatians 6:9"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."REFLECTION- JustinMUSIC- "Christ the Lord is Risen Today" by The O'Neill Brothers Group- "Before Dawn" by Ola GjeiloNOTES- PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10 NLT) Love is not always a pretty or pleasant thing, especially in its earliest form. No matter how long you’ve been married, you probably still remember the first stirrings of love and passion that you felt for your spouse-to-be. You remember the feelings of butterflies in your stomach that sometimes felt like fighter jets. You remember the loss of appetite. You remember the nervousness and the overwhelming desire to make the best impression possible. For better or worse, those feelings don’t last—at least, not in the intensity of their original form. Passion’s fire cools to smoldering embers that can still be ignited, but they don’t burn as intensely or as continuously as they once did. If given the chance, the wild, unpredictable stirrings of first love can settle into something more substantial, more profound, and more permanent. The problem is that many people don’t understand that. They allow their feelings to dictate their actions. They convince themselves that when the emotional excitement isn’t there on a daily basis, they’ve fallen out of love, and the relationship isn’t working out. “We have irreconcilable differences,” they conclude, “so let’s just end things now.” Then they move on to another relationship because they don’t have a clue as to what real love is. The same thing can happen in our relationship with the Lord. The excitement of first coming to faith—of having our sins forgiven, of being aware of God’s boundless love and mercy, of knowing where we will go when we die—can be overwhelming, in the best possible sense. The feelings can be intense. Over time, however, those feelings subside. And when they do, we may start to question our relationship with the Lord. Instead of drifting apart from Him, we need to double down on our commitment. We need to deepen our relationship with God instead of being guided by our feelings. We need to set a workable pace for our walk with the Lord, to be content to grow gradually every day instead of expecting mountaintop experience after mountaintop experience. The psalmist wrote, “Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10 NLT). Loyalty is the key—being true to the Lord regardless of your feelings. Certainly, there will be times of revival when the embers of your love for God are reignited, and the passion burns intensely again. And we should embrace those moments for the gifts they are. But we must never lose sight of the fact that ours is more than just a journey of feeling; it’s also a journey of faith. So, we must continue to deepen our love for God through daily prayer, Bible study, and other habits that help us draw near to Him. We must remember that we are in it for the long haul. We are running a marathon, not a sprint. And we want to finish the race well. Reflection question: How can you build a relationship with the Lord based on loyalty instead of emotions? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday, 13 August 2026   Again, he sent out other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, “See, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and fatted cattle are killed, and all things are ready. Come to the wedding.”' Matthew 22:4   “Again, he sent other servants, saying, ‘You say to those ‘having been called', “You behold, the ‘brunch, mine' I prepared, the ‘oxen, mine' and the fatted have been sacrificed, and all – readied. You come to the nuptials!”'” (CG)   In the previous verse, Jesus continued the parable of the wedding feast, saying that the servants were sent out to those who had been called, but that none were willing to come. He continues now, saying, “Again, he sent other servants, saying.”   The word allos is used. It signifies others of the same kind. They were different servants, but they possessed the same characteristics as the first. Their instructions begin with, “You say to those ‘having been called'.”   As in the previous verse, the perfect participle is used, indicating those of Israel. They had been called previously, and that calling continued until that day. When they go to these people, they are to say, “You behold, the ‘brunch, mine' I prepared.”   This is a new word, ariston. It will be seen a total of three times, once here and twice in Luke. Its meaning is debated. Strong says, “the best meal (or breakfast; perhaps from eri (‘early')), i.e. Luncheon -- dinner.” HELPS Word Studies says, “...(literally, ‘without boundary, designation') – properly, ‘undetermined,' referring to the meal eaten anytime before the main meal (i.e. ‘supper,').”   A word that will adequately convey any of the meanings is brunch. Along with that, they are to proclaim, “the ‘oxen, mine' and the fatted have been sacrificed.”   Three more new words are seen. The first is tauros, a bull or ox. This is probably etymologically connected to the Aramaic word tor, a bull. That, in turn, is connected to the Hebrew shor, a bullock. One can see the Greek root of Ford's Taraus model car, most of which have been turned into paper clips and razor blades at this point.   The second word is sitistos, a fatling. It is derived from sitos, grain. Thus, it is a grain-fed animal purposely raised for such feasts. This is its only use in the New Testament. The third new word is thuó, to kill as a sacrifice. HELPS Word Studies says, “...to kill as a sacrifice and offer on an altar. 2380 /thýō (‘sacrifice') means more than ‘kill' as it also suggests offering something as a spiritual sacrifice.” Along with these things, a note of urgency is given, “and all – readied.”   A final new word is seen, hetoimos, adjusted, ready, prepared, etc. It signifies that the necessary preparations are complete to meet an intended purpose. With that noted, imperative words of petition are laid forth, “You come to the nuptials!”   One can hear the plea, almost of desperation. “I have done everything for you to join me to share in this marvelous celebration. You gotta come, you just gotta!”   Life application: The words of Isaiah 65:2 come directly into focus –   “I have stretched out My hands all day long to a rebellious people, Who walk in a way that is not good.”   It is as if the Lord is standing there, pleading with the people with His arms and hands extended. This continued for generation after generation. When Jesus came, the appeal continued to be made. At some point, anyone would say, “This simply isn't working.”   This is a truth that has to be considered in the world at large. The Lord, through the gospel, has been pleading with the people of the world to come to Him. But there is one point to consider that cannot be overlooked. In the parable, God sent out servants.   This was once active. Jesus commissioned disciples and apostles to go out and spread the word. Now, though active in the sense that we are instructed in the word to send out the message (as in Romans 10), it is also something that is only hoped for in the sense that God doesn't come into our house and say, “Ok, John, you need to go to Papua New Guinea and share the gospel.”   Rather, He relies on us to accept that His word is directive in this manner and that we will comply with what it says. It doesn't take any effort to hand out a gospel tract, open your mouth at work to tell associates about your faith, or to live responsibly as a Christian, filled with the joy of the Lord, so that others will see and want to know about what you possess.   If you are a saved believer in Jesus, God desires to make His appeal to the people of the world through you. Are you willing to comply with His will? If not, you will stand before Him and give a reckoning of your life. There will be loss in such matters. Don't suffer loss. Be one who is rewarded richly for complying with the will of God by sharing your faith with others.   Lord God, help us in the duty we are called to perform in conveying the good news of Jesus to others. May we be diligent in our efforts, carefully and meticulously finding others who need to hear this good news. Help us in this, O God. Amen.  

#top .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-49dced36807bed8610be33c243707434{ padding-bottom:10px; } body .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-49dced36807bed8610be33c243707434 .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{ font-size:25px; } .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-49dced36807bed8610be33c243707434 .av-subheading{ font-size:15px; } Through My Bible Yr 03 – August 13Psalm 17 LISTEN HERE Through My Bible – August 13 Psalm 17 (EHV) https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-0813db.mp3 See series: Through My Bible Psalm 17 My Righteous Plea Heading A prayer by David. David's Righteousness 1 Hear my righteous plea, O Lord. Pay attention to my outcry. Turn your ear to my prayer, which is not offered by deceitful lips. 2 May a just verdict for me come from you. May your eyes observe the things that are right. 3 You have tested my heart. You have visited me at night. You have refined me; you have found nothing wrong. I resolved that my mouth will not overstep its bounds. 4 As for the deeds of people:     by the words from your lips     I have kept myself from the ways of the violent. 5 Keep my footsteps on your paths. My steps have not slipped. God's Love 6 Indeed, I call to you because you will answer me, O God. Turn your ear toward me. Hear what I say. 7 Perform wonders through your mercy. By your right hand save those who seek refuge     from those who rise up against them. 8 Guard me like the pupil of your eye. [1] In the shadow of your wings hide me 9     from the wicked who try to destroy me,     from those enemies of my life who surround me. The Enemies' Ruthlessness 10 Their hearts are calloused. [2] Their mouths speak arrogantly. 11 Now they surround our steps. They watch us to throw us to the ground. 12 He is like a lion that is eager to tear, like a young lion crouching in its hiding place. 13 Rise, O Lord. Confront him. Bring him down. Save my life from the wicked by your sword. 14 Save me from such men by your hand, O Lord, from men of this world, whose reward is in this life. Closing Confidence 14b But you fill the stomachs of those whom you treasure. [3] Their children are satisfied, and they leave their wealth to their children. 15 Indeed, in righteousness I will view your face. When I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness. Footnotes Psalm 17:8 Traditionally the apple of your eye Psalm 17:10 Literally they close their fat Psalm 17:14 Many translations join verse 14b with the first part of verse 14, understanding it as an observation about the worldly prosperity of the ungodly. They translate with your treasure you fill their stomachs. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-aocsdx-89cb4ca21532423cf697fc393b6fcee0{ height:10px; } The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-4vzadh-3f04b370105df1fd314a2a9d83e55b26{ height:50px; } Share this entryShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare by MailLink to FlickrLink to InstagramLink to Vimeo

Your Throne, O God, Is ForeverTo the choirmaster: according to Lilies. A Maskil[a] of the Sons of Korah; a love song.45 My heart overflows with a pleasing theme;    I address my verses to the king;    my tongue is like the pen of a ready scribe.2 You are the most handsome of the sons of men;    grace is poured upon your lips;    therefore God has blessed you forever.3 Gird your sword on your thigh, O mighty one,    in your splendor and majesty!4 In your majesty ride out victoriously    for the cause of truth and meekness and righteousness;    let your right hand teach you awesome deeds!5 Your arrows are sharp    in the heart of the king's enemies;    the peoples fall under you.6 Your throne, O God, is forever and ever.    The scepter of your kingdom is a scepter of uprightness;7     you have loved righteousness and hated wickedness.Therefore God, your God, has anointed you    with the oil of gladness beyond your companions;8     your robes are all fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia.From ivory palaces stringed instruments make you glad;9     daughters of kings are among your ladies of honor;    at your right hand stands the queen in gold of Ophir.10 Hear, O daughter, and consider, and incline your ear:    forget your people and your father's house,11     and the king will desire your beauty.Since he is your lord, bow to him.12     The people[b] of Tyre will seek your favor with gifts,    the richest of the people.[c]13 All glorious is the princess in her chamber, with robes interwoven with gold.14     In many-colored robes she is led to the king,    with her virgin companions following behind her.15 With joy and gladness they are led along    as they enter the palace of the king.16 In place of your fathers shall be your sons;    you will make them princes in all the earth.17 I will cause your name to be remembered in all generations;    therefore nations will praise you forever and ever.+++For more information about this group, please visit their website at reformationboise.com. Every weekday at 3:30 am and 7:30 am you can listen to The Gospel for Life on KSPD 94.5 FM and 790 AM Boise's Solid Talk in the Treasure Valley,  Idaho, USA.If you have a question, comment, or even a topic suggestion for the Pastors, you can email them.  If you enjoy The Gospel for Life, please give us a rating and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. That helps us a lot!Phone: (208) 991-3526E-mail: thegospelforlifeidaho@gmail.comPodcast website:  https://www.790kspd.com/gospel-for-life/to donate on line https://www.reformationboise.com/donate

Midday Prayer Opening O Lord, open my lips And my mouth will declare Your praise. Make haste, O God, to deliver me; Make haste to help me, O Lord.   Candle Lighting   Prayer of Approach (from St. Augustine) Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may be holy. Act in me, O Holy Spirit, that my work may be holy. Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, to love what is holy.   Psalm Reading - Psalm 117 - NLT (Pentecost) Praise the Lord, all you nations. Praise him, all you people of the earth. For his unfailing love for us is powerful; the Lord's faithfulness endures forever. Praise the Lord!   Scripture Reading - Matthew 7:24-25 Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.   Silent Meditation on God's Word   As we enter this time of meditation on God's Word, we pause to be still, to breathe slowly, to re-center our scattered senses on the presence of God, and to take a moment of silent prayer to ask the Holy Spirit to speak clearly to us through His Word.   -Pause-   As I read our text for today, listen for one word or phrase that is being spoken by God to you.   Ask yourself: Through which word or phrase is God wanting to speak to me today?   Allow that word or phrase to guide your meditation today. Repeat it over and over in your mind. Let it wash over you. Let it fill you.   Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.   As the Holy Spirit speaks to You today through His Word, take a moment now to pause and repeat that word over and over in your mind as you allow God's Word to wash over you and fill you.   -Pause-   Now we reflect on the word or phrase that God is highlighting for us today.   Ask yourself: What part of my life needs to hear this word from God?   The Spirit has highlighted something in this text for you today. What part of you really needs to hear that?   Here, I will read the text again, and then we will have a longer time of silence to reflect on what God is highlighting for you today.   Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.   Take a moment now to pause and consider: What part of your life needs to hear this word from God today?   -Pause-   Now we respond to God's Word.   As yourself, What is my response to God based on what I have encountered in His Word?   Because God speaks to us all in different ways, your response can also take on many different forms.   Maybe that response is in the form of a prayer. Use this time to thank and praise God. Speak to and listen to Him. Ask Him for something. Allow your prayer to flow from your heart freely and fully.   Or maybe God is reminding you of something. Maybe He's reminding you of your identity in Him. Or of His promises. Or of His presence in your life. And so I encourage you to sit in that reminder.   Or is God inviting you to respond in some physical way to the word that you have heard?   Maybe it's an encouragement to keep doing what you're doing. Maybe it's an encouragement to stop doing what you're doing. Maybe it's an encouragement to start doing something new.   We hear God's Word and respond to it.    Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.   Take a moment now to pause and consider: What is your response to God based on what you have encountered in His Word?   -Pause-   And now we rest in God's Word.   We have read God's Word. We have reflected on it. You have responded to it.   Now we return to a place of rest.    Remember that this rest is not based on your works. It is not based on your response to God's Word. But today and every day, we can rest in God's promises and His presence here with us today.   Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.   Take a moment now to rest in God's promises and His presence here with us today.   -Pause-   Lord's Prayer Our Father who art in heaven: hallowed be Thy name: Thy kingdom come: Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven:  Give us this day our daily bread: and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us:  and lead us not into temptation: but deliver us from evil: For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.   Benediction Eternal Creator of light, Yours is the morning and Yours is the evening. Draw us to Yourself so there will be no darkness within us. Amen. Let us go in peace. Thanks be to God. *Liturgy was compiled using resources from Lectio 365 and Ruth Haley Barton's "Invitation to Retreat."

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 118:24"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it!"REFLECTION- CherylMUSIC- This is the Day by Psalms By Chris- This is the Day by Hymns for Easter (Emmaus Music)NOTES- PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Bob Goff once said, “We won't be distracted by comparison if we're captivated by purpose.” That's especially true when it comes to money. Comparison tempts us to measure our success against someone else's income, lifestyle, investments, or possessions. But when we understand who we are in Christ and why God has entrusted resources to us, money becomes a tool for fulfilling God's purposes rather than a scorecard for measuring our worth. Jim Rasmussen, co-founder and brand ambassador at Pandowealth and a Certified Kingdom Advisor®, has spent years helping individuals, families, and business owners approach financial decisions with wisdom and purpose. Through that work, he has seen how easily comparison can creep into our financial lives—and how biblical stewardship can help us escape it. When Comparison Takes Root Comparison often begins innocently. For business owners, it might start by comparing sales, expenses, or profitability with another company. Before long, however, that same mindset can spill into personal finances. Who has the bigger house? Who takes better vacations? Who has accumulated more? Who seems further ahead? For high earners in particular, there can be a subtle temptation to connect net worth with self-worth. And without a clear sense of purpose, financial success can actually make the problem worse. A successful business should ultimately support a financial plan, and a financial plan should support the life God is calling us to live. But when that larger purpose hasn't been defined, it becomes easy to look around and simply copy what others are doing. That is where comparison begins replacing stewardship. Resources Are Gifts, Not Trophies 1 Peter 4:10 says: “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace.” Biblical stewardship begins with recognizing that what we have is a gift from God. Our resources were never meant merely to become trophies that demonstrate how successful we are. They are entrusted to us so that we can serve others, provide for those God has placed in our care, practice generosity, and participate in His purposes. That perspective changes the questions we ask. Instead of asking, “How much more can I accumulate?” we begin asking, “How much do I actually need?” and “How might God want me to use the rest?” Rasmussen often encourages families to consider three questions: How much do I need?  How much do my children need?  What might God want me to do with the rest? Scripture doesn't give us a universal percentage for determining how much lifestyle is enough. That requires prayer, wisdom, and discernment—and for married couples, a willingness to seek the Lord together. The starting point is simple: seek God first. Know Your Financial Finish Line One of the dangers of comparison is that there is always someone with more. Without a financial finish line, “enough” continually moves farther away. A larger paycheck creates room for a larger house. A growing portfolio creates another wealth target. Greater success creates expectations for an even more expensive lifestyle. Defining “enough” can interrupt that cycle. A finish line isn't about creating an arbitrary limit or feeling guilty for enjoying God's provision. It is about intentionally deciding what level of resources is sufficient for your needs so that additional wealth can increasingly be directed toward generosity and other God-honoring purposes. It moves us from constantly asking, “What else can I get?” toward asking, “What has God entrusted to me, and what is it for?” Watch for Identity Drift One warning sign that comparison is taking hold is when possessions and accomplishments increasingly become part of how we describe ourselves. Our conversations begin revolving around the new car, lake house, vacation, clothes, investment returns, or latest purchase. None of those things are necessarily wrong. But they can become warning signs when possessions begin defining our identity. The Christian's identity is ultimately found in Christ—not in what we earn, own, accomplish, or accumulate. That foundation becomes especially important in a culture where social media gives us a constant window into what everyone else appears to have. Don't Copy Someone Else's Financial Plan Comparison can also shape the way we invest. Learning from others can certainly be wise. But blindly copying someone else's portfolio can be dangerous because their financial plan may have little to do with yours. Rasmussen compares it to taking a road trip. If your destination is New York but you follow someone driving west simply because they appear confident, you won't arrive where you intended. The same is true financially. Another investor may have a different time horizon, risk tolerance, income, family situation, or financial objective. What is appropriate for them may create unnecessary risk or anxiety for you. A good investment strategy should flow from your goals and convictions—not from whatever someone else happens to be doing. Purpose should determine the path. Let Gratitude Replace Comparison One of the most powerful ways to resist comparison is gratitude. When we intentionally recognize God's provision, our attention shifts from what we lack to what He has already supplied. That might mean keeping a gratitude journal, regularly thanking God for specific blessings, or simply creating more space for prayer. Rasmussen points to Psalm 139:23–24 as a helpful prayer: “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” That prayer invites God to expose the desires, fears, and anxieties that may be quietly pushing us toward comparison. Sometimes we need to pay attention to the tension we feel when someone else succeeds, purchases something new, or appears to be further ahead. Those reactions can reveal something about our own hearts. Give Yourself Permission to Use Money Purposefully Financial wisdom doesn't always mean saying no. Sometimes faithful stewardship means giving generously. Other times, it might mean taking the family vacation you have repeatedly postponed or spending money on something meaningful that fits within your financial plan. Rasmussen has seen families experience a genuine sense of relief when they realize that their financial plan gives them permission to act. Good planning can help answer the question, “Can we afford this?” But biblical financial planning should go deeper by asking, “Does this fit the purposes God has given us?” When the answer is yes, wise stewardship can sometimes mean confidently moving forward rather than endlessly accumulating out of fear. A Practical Step for This Week Start with prayer. Spend time with Psalm 139:23–24 and invite God to search your heart. Ask Him to reveal where comparison, fear, pride, or discontentment may be shaping your financial decisions. If you're married, consider having an honest conversation with your spouse. You might also ask a trusted friend or advisor a difficult but helpful question: What do you see in my life that I may be too close to see myself? Wise accountability can help expose patterns we overlook. And when fear of missing out begins creeping in, remember that you do not have to follow someone else's path. Their financial life is not your financial life. Seek God first and faithfully follow the purposes He has given you. The Cure for Comparison Ultimately, the comparison trap is about far more than money. It is an issue of the heart. The cure isn't accumulating enough to finally feel successful. There will always be another benchmark, another purchase, or another person who seems further ahead. Freedom begins when we remember who we are in Christ and recognize that everything we have belongs to God. When our identity is secure and our purpose is clear, money no longer needs to measure our success. It becomes something far better: a tool we can faithfully steward for God's purposes. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I've heard you recommend a company for reverse mortgages, but I never caught the name. Which company do you suggest listeners contact? I'm retired and still have a 401(k) with my former employer. I thought RMDs started at age 70½, but I've also heard age 73. What age applies to me now? If I use Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD's) for a few years, can I later stop and go back to receiving those withdrawals myself? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Pandowealth Movement Mortgage FaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough?  Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#top .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-7d5d33606d2e11d32139429f299b471f{ padding-bottom:10px; } body .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-7d5d33606d2e11d32139429f299b471f .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{ font-size:25px; } .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-7d5d33606d2e11d32139429f299b471f .av-subheading{ font-size:15px; } Through My Bible Yr 03 – August 12Psalm 15 – 16 LISTEN HERE Through My Bible – August 12 Psalm 15 – 16 (EHV) https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-0812db.mp3 See series: Through My Bible Psalm 15 Who May Dwell in Your Sanctuary? Heading A psalm by David. The Question: Who May Dwell in Your Sanctuary? 1 Lord, who may be a guest in your tent? Who may dwell on your holy mountain? The Answer: The One Who Does What Is Righteous 2 One who walks with integrity, who does what is righteous, and who speaks the truth in his heart. 3 He has no slander on his tongue. He does not harm his friend, and he does not defame his neighbor. 4 He despises everyone whom God rejects, but he honors those who fear the Lord. When he promises something,     he does not break his word     even though it costs him a lot. 5 He does not lend his money to get interest, [1] and he does not accept a bribe against the innocent. One who does these things will never be toppled. Psalm 16 You Will Not Abandon Me to the Grave Heading A miktam [2] by David. You Are My Lord 1 Guard me, O God, for I take refuge in you. 2 I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord. I have no good apart from you.” [3] 3 The holy ones who are in the land are glorious. All my delight is in them. 4 Those who chase after another god will increase their sorrows. I will not pour out their drink offerings of blood. I will not take up their names on my lips. You Will Not Abandon Me to the Grave 5 Lord, you are the cup that has been given to me. You have secured an allotment for me. 6 The property lines chosen for me fall in pleasant places. Yes, a delightful inheritance is mine. 7 I will bless the Lord, who guides me. Even at night my heart [4] instructs me. 8 I have set the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. 9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being [5] rejoices. Even my flesh will dwell securely 10     because you will not abandon my life to the grave.     You will not let your favored one [6] see decay. 11 You have made known to me the path of life,     fullness of joy in your presence,     pleasures at your right hand forever. Footnotes Psalm 15:5 Or perhaps excessive interest Psalm 16:1 The meaning of miktam is uncertain. It may mean a golden psalm or a choice piece or a psalm inscribed on a tablet. Psalm 16:2 The Hebrew of verses 2–4 is difficult and may be understood in more than one way. Psalm 16:7 Literally kidneys. In Hebrew the word kidneys has some of the same connotations that heart does in English. Psalm 16:9 Literally my glory. A few manuscripts read liver, which in Hebrew idiom parallels heart as a center of emotion. Psalm 16:10 The Hebrew word hasid refers to a person who receives favor or distributes mercy. Here it refers to Christ, but it is not capitalized because it does not become one of his messianic titles. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-aocsdx-89cb4ca21532423cf697fc393b6fcee0{ height:10px; } The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-4vzadh-3f04b370105df1fd314a2a9d83e55b26{ height:50px; } Share this entryShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare by MailLink to FlickrLink to InstagramLink to Vimeo

SCRIPTURE- Proverbs 24:32"And as I gazed upon it, I reflected, and I saw and learned the truth."REFLECTION- Fr. RonMUSIC- "He Leadeth Me" Instrumental- "Whatsoever You Do" by Robert KochisNOTES- Blog: What Does the Bible Say About Serving the Poor?PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

“How precious is your unfailing love, O God! All humanity finds shelter in the shadow of your wings.” (Psalm 36:7 NLT) First Kings 18 tells the story of the prophet Elijah’s epic showdown with the prophets of Baal and Asherah. But before that decisive contest occurs in the chapter, we find a brief encounter between two of God’s servants that illustrates what real, difference-making servanthood looks like. The chapter begins with these words: “Later on, in the third year of the drought, the Lord said to Elijah, ‘Go and present yourself to King Ahab. Tell him that I will soon send rain!’ So Elijah went to appear before Ahab” (1 Kings 18:1–2 NLT). Ahab and his wife Jezebel were two of the evilest characters in Israel’s history. Not only did they oppose the God of Israel, but they also ordered the execution of His prophets. And Elijah was at the top of their hit list. Even so, when God told Elijah to confront Ahab, the prophet didn’t hesitate to obey. On his way to find Ahab, Elijah encountered Obadiah, “a devoted follower of the Lord” (verse 3 NLT), who was also in charge of Ahab’s palace. Obadiah had remained faithful to God in a difficult and dangerous environment. In fact, when Jezebel sought to kill the Lord’s prophets, Obadiah hid one hundred of them in caves and supplied them with food and water (see verses 3–4). His actions required courage and helped preserve the lives of God’s servants. Yet Obadiah and Elijah represent two different ways of serving God during a time of spiritual crisis. Obadiah faithfully served the Lord from within Ahab’s administration, while Elijah openly confronted the king and called the nation back to God. Both men were devoted to the Lord, but Elijah's assignment required a public stand. As believers, there are times when our faith is expressed through quiet faithfulness and courageous service behind the scenes. But there are also moments when God calls us to speak openly and stand firmly for what is right. If we remain silent when He calls us to speak, others may mistake our silence for approval. Look again at how Elijah instantly obeyed and firmly declared God's will. We need the courage of Elijah, who stood openly and boldly for the Lord. It is possible to believe quietly, as Obadiah did, but there are moments when God calls His people to speak and stand without compromise. Elijah realized that he stood in the presence of the most powerful King of all: God Himself. Elijah understood what David, the writer of Psalm 36, meant when he wrote, “How precious is your unfailing love, O God! All humanity finds shelter in the shadow of your wings” (verse 7 NLT). Have you ever tried to stand in someone’s shadow? You must stay very close to the person. If they move, you must mirror their actions. Elijah stood in the shadow of God no matter where he was. Sometimes we forget that. We think that when we leave church, we somehow leave God’s presence. The truth is, wherever we go, God is with us. When we stand in the presence of God, we will not bow before any person. Proverbs 28:1 says, “The godly are as bold as lions” (NLT). There is no room for spiritual compromise in the lives of God’s people. Reflection question: What would a refusal to compromise, spiritually speaking, look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christian kids, do you recall all those old warnings against fantasy fiction?[1. Photo by Volodymyr Hryshchenko on Unsplash.] Some people implied that if you made up too much stuff, you'd lose track of reality. Alas. For some cases, they’re absolutely right. Too many people are abusing God's gift of imagination. They cast people they do not know as villains in a fantasy world in which they are the big moral heroes. This habit is taking over social platforms and podcasts. How can Christian fans respond with wisdom? Episode sponsors Enclave Publishing: Winter's Dawn by Morgan L. Busse Realm Makers fundraiser for ongoing defamation lawsuit The Talismiths: The Secret Saboteur by M. L. Hodder King Justice: The Legend Begins by Evelyn M. Exley Mission update New at Lorehaven: Conqueror of Shadow and Light review Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild Concession stand Some “conspiracy theories” are issues of wisdom, not sin. And in fact, some ideas labeled “conspiracies” turn out to be true! For more, listen to our episode How Can Christians Engage Wisely With Conspiracy Theories? | with Mike Duran Or read Mike's article: Christians Who Engage Conspiracy Theories Must First Believe God's Sovereign Rule Yet we've always had seen conspiracy theories based on fiction. And today more people are building bigger and worse idols. This makes the problem more than foolishness. It's actual sin. And this false accusation hurts true people we know and respect. It also hurts people who still struggle after real abuse and lies. Maybe you've been hurt by a real offense by a trusted someone. In that case, you don't need people weaponizing your empathy. We'll give you strong Bible tools to defend your calling and time. 1. False accusers are hurting true people. By now you may know about the Realm Makers defamation suit. Our friends and allies, Scott and Becky Minor, are suing a defamer. Two weeks ago, they released their need for legal cost support. So far, they've reached nearlry $20,000 of a $50,000 funding goal. We support them with 20 percent of new Lorehaven sponsors. But first, about the opponent, don't just speculate. Donate! Scott and Becky's open letter with the fundraiser: Defamation Against Realm Makers & the Minors Standing Together for Truth: Protect the Realm Makers Community Dear Realm Makers Family, Authors, and Friends, If you've ever sat in a Realm Makers keynote, chatted on the RealmSphere, or exhaled once you found “your people” at our annual conference, you know how much creative Christians benefit from being a part of our community. Realm Makers has always sought to be a safe haven for Christian writers of speculative stories. Today, we're coming to you with hearts heavy with a burden that impacts many members of our creative family. For the past year, we have been fighting a devastating battle to protect not just ourselves, but all of you. But we've reached a point where we can no longer carry the weight alone, and we desperately need our community to stand with us. The Attack on Us All Since early 2025, our authors, Realm Makers, and we (Scott and Becky personally) have been the targets of a malicious campaign of online defamation. A podcast organization has published dozens of episodes leveling unthinkable accusations against us that include fabrications of child trafficking, cyberbullying, running a cult, and engaging in criminal conspiracies. THESE CLAIMS ARE CATEGORICALLY UNTRUE. If you want to take the deep dive into the events that precipitated the battle, we have created a page that should answer most questions here: https://www.realmmakers.com/lawsuit/ Initially, we hoped these claims were too outlandish to be taken seriously. We chose to monitor the situation and proceed prudently through the legal system rather than engage in a public online war. But despite our efforts to do things legally and with level heads, our attackers have only doubled down. New videos continue to be published—with one posting as recently as the end of June 2026—directly threatening not just Realm Makers' reputation, but also questioning the character of prominent members of the Christian writing community. The more we researched, the bigger we realized the issue was–we were just the most recent targets in our accuser's “information” campaign against a growing list of Christian authors. The repeated contact with or calling out of people we know and love goes back to 2012 or earlier. Exclusive statement from author Bryan Davis David Solomon has used multiple aliases over the years, but he has always been consistent in his demonizing of people whom he thinks have crossed him. Ever since I declined meeting with him at my home more than ten years ago because I had to go out of town, he has used various media to publicly accuse me of everything from an alliance with former VP Mike Pence to traffic hundreds of children internationally, to trying to bomb a church, to grooming children in a church I supposedly pastored, to conspiring with famous murderers across the country, and on and on and on. If anyone tries to do anything to stop him or even speak against him, that person becomes a fellow trafficker in his mind and joins in the circle of those he attacks. That's what happened to Scott and Becky Minor of Realm Makers. When David and his allies joined Realm Makers, they started spreading lies about me to other members, so Scott rightfully banned them from the group. Of course, that action made Scott and Becky targets for David's lies, and he found a podcaster who was willing to be a platform for a new round of absurd claims. Hoping to keep Realm Makers safe from attack, Scott started civil legal proceedings against David and the podcaster. As you all know, such action costs a lot of money, but Scott and Becky have stepped up to try to stop this lying grifter from hurting them or anyone else, which is why I support their fundraiser and I am thankful for their efforts. I would like prayer for myself and other authors who have been maliciously attacked by David, that people would not be deceived by him and that he would stop his evil actions. 2. Scripture condemns a malicious witness. This is a real problem, as grown-up people treat slander as truth. Even professing Christians repeat clear lies about whole groups. Whatever their motives, they're crossing into our business: fiction. Yet we know the difference between made-up stories and reality. They don't. Or they pretend they don't. They claim it's all true. These defamers raid reality for spare parts to fit in their narrative. They adapt real people, groups, and plotlines for their “fanfiction.” Who's the star? Often themselves. Or “you,” the faithful listener. But this episode isn't for or even about any specific false accuser. Nor is it about similar accusations, at scale, all over the world. Our audience: anyone who wonders if we must hear “both sides.” And anyone who thinks “better safe than sorry” in wrong ways. So now, let's explore how Scripture condemns all such figures. God’s word says Christians who accuse others have two options. First, if the offense is a personal sin issue, talk with the person. Or then try 2-3 witnesses. Or take the conflict to church leaders. Their job is to attempt to bring reconciliation (Matthew 18). Second, if the offense is about law, you need two-plus witnesses. And you need to take the matter before diligent judges. “A single witness shall not suffice against a person for any crime or for any wrong in connection with any offense that he has committed. Only on the evidence of two witnesses or of three witnesses shall a charge be established.” (Deuteronomy 19:15) Our own justice systems often reflect Old Testament principles. That's because God has ordained the civil magistrate (Romans 13). He also gives stern warnings against “a malicious witness.” “If a malicious witness arises to accuse a person of wrongdoing, then both parties to the dispute shall appear before the LORD, before the priests and the judges who are in office in those days. The judges shall inquire diligently, and if the witness is a false witness and has accused his brother falsely, then you shall do to him as he had meant to do to his brother. So you shall purge the evil from your midst. And the rest shall hear and fear, and shall never again commit any such evil among you. Your eye shall not pity. It shall be life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.” (Deuteronomy 19:16–21) Defamers, even professing Christians, ignore these biblical laws. Instead they follow (and don't even argue for) a third option. They go onto podcasts to hire you as a backup “elder” or “judge.” But is that our job? To be a church elder or judge over this “case”? Jesus Christ Himself refused to get dragged into that (Luke 12:14)! So before we even listen to an accuser's words, we should ask: Did you take this to your church? Or to the civil magistrate? And if the reply is no: “Who appointed me a judge or an arbiter?” We can also discern a malicious witness who denies plain reality. Some accusers go further and have ulterior motives, like Sanballat. 3. Biblical heroes reject bad actors' attacks. Many biblical prophets and kings faced false accusations. And yet one man comes close to the Christian creator: Nehemiah. Here's a professional, a diplomat, a creative leader of exiled Jews. His book is mainly about his quest to build something new. Nehemiah longs to rebuild Jerusalem's wall and guard his people. Also, he's one of the few biblical authors to speak in first-person! Quick recap: the secular king sends Nehemiah to do this work. Nehemiah's position and calling are legitimate by all authorities. This quickly attracts jeering and slander by several villains. But when Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite servant and Geshem the Arab heard of it, they jeered at us and despised us and said, “What is this thing that you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” Then I replied to them, “The God of heaven will make us prosper, and we his servants will arise and build, but you have no portion or right or claim in Jerusalem.” (Nehemiah 2:19–20) What's their first tactic? False accusation of breaking the law. Nehemiah doesn't record a long defense. Just a quick rejoinder. Here he doesn't record their motives. Maybe people already knew. Commentaries like this one reveal his possible political rivalries. So keep that in mind with all his strategies. None are sincere. One chapter later, the enemies return. What do they do now? Now when Sanballat heard that we were building the wall, he was angry and greatly enraged, and he jeered at the Jews. And he said in the presence of his brothers and of the army of Samaria, “What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore it for themselves? Will they sacrifice? Will they finish up in a day? Will they revive the stones out of the heaps of rubbish, and burned ones at that?” Tobiah the Ammonite was beside him, and he said, “Yes, what they are building—if a fox goes up on it he will break down their stone wall!” (Nehemiah 4:1–4) No more legal threats now. Instead they just troll the builders. Watch now how Nehemiah responds. He knows not to feed them. Hear, O our God, for we are despised. Turn back their taunt on their own heads and give them up to be plundered in a land where they are captives. Do not cover their guilt, and let not their sin be blotted out from your sight, for they have provoked you to anger in the presence of the builders. (Nehemiah 4:5) What's next for Sanballat and co.? He escalates from trolling. But when Sanballat and Tobiah and the Arabs and the Ammonites and the Ashdodites heard that the repairing of the walls of Jerusalem was going forward and that the breaches were beginning to be closed, they were very angry. And they all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and to cause confusion in it. (Nehemiah 4:7–8) Today's similar tactics: death threats, doxxing, and swatting. Nehemiah responds with both prayer and wise self-defense. And we prayed to our God and set a guard as a protection against them day and night. (Nehemiah 4:9) So after legal threats, trolling, and violence plots, they get sneaky. Now when Sanballat and Tobiah and Geshem the Arab and the rest of our enemies heard that I had built the wall and that there was no breach left in it (although up to that time I had not set up the doors in the gates), Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, “Come and let us meet together at Hakkephirim in the plain of Ono.” But they intended to do me harm. (Nehemiah 6:1–2) Today false accusers try this tactic: “I just want to meet with you.” “I think we got off on the wrong foot. Now let's talk. On my terms.” And I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work and I cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and come down to you?” And they sent to me four times in this way, and I answered them in the same manner. (Nehemiah 6:3–4) Nehemiah responds professionally and brushes them aside. He avoids distractions. He focuses on the work he's called to do. This doesn't feel very “Christian.” After all, Sanballat needs God! And yet Nehemiah knows he's a proven bad-faith manipulator. Sanballat repeats the attempt. Nehemiah just repeats himself. No need for new arguments or attempts to persuade the accuser. He sticks to what he knows, grounded on the truth, and says no. What's next? They try the old “people say this about you” trick! In the same way Sanballat for the fifth time sent his servant to me with an open letter in his hand. In it was written, “It is reported among the nations, and Geshem also says it, that you and the Jews intend to rebel; that is why you are building the wall. And according to these reports you wish to become their king. And you have also set up prophets to proclaim concerning you in Jerusalem, ‘There is a king in Judah.' And now the king will hear of these reports. So now come and let us take counsel together.” (Nehemiah 6:5–7) It's not Sanballat who says this. It's those other people out there! This is a flagrant appeal to our desire to protect our reputations. And it is “spiritual” concern-trolling of the worst possible sort. Frankly, Sanballat should have led with this one. It's fooled many. Important background: Nehemiah's people did sin against God. So he could have been vulnerable to “spiritual” accusations. Then I sent to him, saying, “No such things as you say have been done, for you are inventing them out of your own mind.” For they all wanted to frighten us, thinking, “Their hands will drop from the work, and it will not be done.” But now, O God, strengthen my hands. (Nehemiah 6:8–9) He didn't buy it. He simply states they made all this up. We get another quick prayer in-narrative. Before one final trick. Now when I went into the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah, son of Mehetabel, who was confined to his home, he said, “Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple. Let us close the doors of the temple, for they are coming to kill you. They are coming to kill you by night.” (Nehemiah 6:10) Again, Sanballat should have tried this strategy earlier. It sounds so spiritual. The house of God! Only it's misused. It's almost persuasive, mixes truth with lies, and appeals to fear. But I said, “Should such a man as I run away? And what man such as I could go into the temple and live? I will not go in.” And I understood and saw that God had not sent him, but he had pronounced the prophecy against me because Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. (Nehemiah 6:11–12) Our hero doesn't attempt some “spiritual” argument to Shemaiah. In fact, he refers to his own character and gives a simple refusal. That's because he knows this isn't a spiritual attack. It's political. Nehemiah's enemies resorted to cold hard cash as a motivator. In modern terms, we would say he recognizes foreign collusion. For this purpose he was hired, that I should be afraid and act in this way and sin, and so they could give me a bad name in order to taunt me. Remember Tobiah and Sanballat, O my God, according to these things that they did, and also the prophetess Noadiah and the rest of the prophets who wanted to make me afraid. (Nehemiah 6:13–14) Deftly our hero avoids the trap. And prays to God for divine justice. He even calls out unnamed prophets who tried to intimidate him. One can only imagine the “spiritual” language they may have used. In all cases, Nehemiah knew none of the strategies were sincere. And in the end, he avoids every trap and keeps to the project. Today, similar villains will try any tricks to stop people of integrity. And today they may use what plays well: accusations of abuse. Not even Sanballat knew to try that tactic. It's often effective. That's because Scripture does warn about abusive leaders. But God's word equally warn about the malicious false witness. Against false accusations, apply biblical justice and wise rebukes. One way or another, they will be defeated. And hopefully repent. Com station Top question for listeners Have you had a “Nehemiah” moment of standing up for your calling? Next on Fantastical Truth Now that we've talked the tough topics, let's talk about subjects more epic and fun. Like dragons! Possibly ones in our midst! The author we mentioned earlier, Bryan Davis, doesn't even have time to run all these conspiracies. That's because he'd been too busy with bestselling novels. So next week, we'll finally invite Bryan into the studio to share more about the castle walls he's built over the last many decades.

Send Us a Message or Fan MailPreacher: Pastor Adam SteinbrennerSubmit sermon questions by emailing podcast@stjohndublin.orgLink to SermonChurch Website: stjohndublin.orgChurch Center: stjohndublin.churchcenter.comThank you to Higher Things Inc. for permission to use their recording of LSB 834 “O God, O Lord of Heaven and Earth”. (leader.higherthings.org)Thank you for listening to the Post-Sermon Podcast.

We know more of the mystery of our redemption than David did. We know Christ. But we lay hold of the mercy in the same way he did.

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 119:11"I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." REFLECTION- MikeMUSIC- Prayer of St. FrancisMy Soul is at RestNOTES- PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Let the peoples praise You, O God; let all the peoples praise You! Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for You judge the peoples with equity and guide the nations upon earth. Let the peoples praise You, O God; let all the peoples praise You! (Psalm 67:3-5)

Full Text of Readings Memorial of Saint Clare, Virgin Lectionary: 414 The Saint of the day is Saint Clare of Assisi Saint Clare of Assisi's Story One of the more sugary movies made about Francis of Assisi pictures Clare as a golden-haired beauty floating through sun-drenched fields, a sort of one-woman counterpart to the new Franciscan Order. The beginning of her religious life was indeed movie material. Having refused to marry at 15, Clare of Assisi was moved by the dynamic preaching of Francis. He became her lifelong friend and spiritual guide. At 18, Clare of Assisi escaped from her father's home one night, was met on the road by friars carrying torches, and in the poor little chapel called the Portiuncula received a rough woolen habit, exchanged her jeweled belt for a common rope with knots in it, and sacrificed her long tresses to Francis' scissors. He placed her in a Benedictine convent, which her father and uncles immediately stormed in rage. Clare clung to the altar of the church, threw aside her veil to show her cropped hair, and remained adamant. Sixteen days later her sister Agnes joined her. Others came. They lived a simple life of great poverty, austerity, and complete seclusion from the world, according to a Rule which Francis gave them as a Second Order. At age 21, Francis obliged Clare under obedience to accept the office of abbess, one she exercised until her death. The Poor Ladies went barefoot, slept on the ground, ate no meat, and observed almost complete silence. Later Clare, like Francis, persuaded her sisters to moderate this rigor: “Our bodies are not made of brass.” The greatest emphasis, of course, was on gospel poverty. They possessed no property, even in common, subsisting on daily contributions. When even the pope tried to persuade Clare to mitigate this practice, she showed her characteristic firmness: “I need to be absolved from my sins, but I do not wish to be absolved from the obligation of following Jesus Christ.” Contemporary accounts glow with admiration of Saint Clare of Assisi's life in the convent of San Damiano in Assisi. She served the sick and washed the feet of the begging nuns. She came from prayer, it was said, with her face so shining it dazzled those about her. She suffered serious illness for the last 27 years of her life. Her influence was such that popes, cardinals, and bishops often came to consult her—Clare herself never left the walls of San Damiano. Francis always remained her great friend and inspiration. Saint Clare of Assisi was always obedient to his will and to the great ideal of gospel life which he was making real. A well-known story concerns her prayer and trust. Saint Clare of Assisi had the Blessed Sacrament placed on the walls of the convent when it faced attack by invading Saracens. “Does it please you, O God, to deliver into the hands of these beasts the defenseless children I have nourished with your love? I beseech you, dear Lord, protect these whom I am now unable to protect.” To her sisters she said, “Don't be afraid. Trust in Jesus.” The Saracens fled. Reflection The 41 years of Clare's religious life are scenarios of sanctity: an indomitable resolve to lead the simple, literal gospel life as Francis taught her; courageous resistance to the ever-present pressure to dilute the ideal; a passion for poverty and humility; an ardent life of prayer; and a generous concern for her sisters.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

SCRIPTURE- Philippians 1:6"And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."  REFLECTION- SarahMUSIC- Peace is Flowing Like a River- Praise to the Lord, the AlmightyNOTES- PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

“Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight!” (Psalm 32:1 NLT) Without a doubt, one of the greatest blessings of the Christian life is that our God gives second chances. The apostle Paul wrote, “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard” (Romans 3:23 NLT). But even if we’ve failed miserably, God gives us the opportunity to put it behind us. He can dramatically turn things around on our behalf. He can forgive us. We have a choice in the course our lives take. We can either confess our sin and turn from it and know the happiness of being forgiven, or we can try to conceal our sin and then reap what we’ve sown. The Bible tells us that God will not bless people who try to hide their sin. Isaiah 3:9 says of such people, “They are doomed! They have brought destruction upon themselves” (NLT). On the other hand, Psalm 32:1 says, “Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight!” (NLT). Doesn’t that sound better? David, the writer of the psalm, understood this well. David’s story is a classic rags-to-riches tale. David was a shepherd and a musician. He was overlooked even in his own family. When his brothers went off to war, David was given the role of delivery boy. When Samuel the prophet told Jesse, David’s father, that God had sent him to anoint one of Jesse’s sons as the next king of Israel, Jesse didn’t even include David in the lineup. Yet David thrived in the role of underdog. He killed the giant Goliath. He succeeded Saul as the king of Israel. God gave David the chance of a lifetime, and David rose to the occasion. Gradually, though, his attention wandered. His priorities shifted. According to 2 Samuel 11:1, King David sent his men to battle the Ammonites while he “stayed behind in Jerusalem” (NLT). While he was idling in Jerusalem, he saw a woman named Bathsheba taking a bath. David sent for her and slept with her, even though she was the wife of Uriah, one of his most faithful soldiers. When he learned that Bathsheba was pregnant, David called Uriah back from battle, hoping that he would sleep with his wife. That way, people would assume that he was the father of her child. But Uriah refused to enjoy the comforts of home while his fellow soldiers were still camped on the battlefield. In desperation, David arranged for Uriah to be killed in battle so that he could marry the widow Bathsheba in time to make the baby’s birth seem legitimate. David failed God spectacularly. He committed adultery and murder. And after he was confronted by the prophet Nathan, he felt the weight of his sin. He wrote, “Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin” (Psalm 51:1–2 NLT). God heard his prayer, forgave his sins, and gave him a second chance. And God will do the same for you, no matter what you’ve done, if you repent and ask for forgiveness. Reflection question: How does knowing that God offers forgiveness and second chances change the way you respond when you fail? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“The one thing I ask of the Lord—the thing I seek most—is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord’s perfections and meditating in his Temple.” (Psalm 27:4 NLT) It’s been said that the greatest danger in life is to permit the urgent things to crowd out the important things. You see, the rabbit holes in life can cause us to lose sight of the one thing that matters: Jesus Christ. It’s interesting to follow the phrase one thing through the pages of Scripture. Each time a biblical author uses this phrase, we find insights into the importance of making time for the Lord. For example, remember when Martha became agitated at her sister, Mary, for sitting at Jesus’ feet while Martha did all the work? How did Jesus reply? He said, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41–42 NLT, emphasis mine). Jesus was essentially saying, “Listen, Martha, I appreciate your desire to work. But there is a time to work and there is a time to sit at My feet. Mary has figured out that one thing is needful.” Are Martha’s actions a good description of your life right now? Are you so busy with work and life’s nonessentials that you’ve forgotten the one thing? Unless we have a sense of priority, we can find ourselves distracted and quickly forget our purpose: to dwell with the Lord. We must make the time to sit at the Lord’s feet. If we don’t make time for God’s Word, prayer, and church in our daily lives, we will fall apart spiritually. One thing is needful; pray for the strength and diligence to make time for it. David had a real insight into who God is and set his heart to follow Him. In Psalm 57:7, he wrote, “My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is steadfast and confident!” (AMPC). David’s heart was totally focused on who God was. He was locked into what was right. Paul made a similar statement in the book of Philippians: “I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us” (3:13–14 NLT). Everybody is living for something. The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing—that is, to live by a clear set of priorities. What’s the one thing for you? What’s your clear focus in life? God may not give you everything you hope for in life. Then again, He may give you more. You just leave that up to Him and put Him first. Reflection question: How can you prioritize the things of God in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SCRIPTURE- Luke 1:38“And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her” REFLECTION- JenMUSIC- Be Present at Our Table, LordBe Thou My VisionNOTES- PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Lamentations 3:22-24"The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. 'The LORD is my portion,' says my soul, 'therefore I will hope in him.” REFLECTION- GaryMUSIC- "Lord Of Glory, Who Hast Bought Us" by Mark Magnuson- "Yet" by Draw CloseNOTES- PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.