Podcasts about o lord

“I am a stranger with thee.” — Psalm 39:12 Yes, O Lord, with Thee, but not to Thee. All my natural alienation from Thee, Thy grace has effectually removed; and now, in fellowship with Thyself, I walk through this sinful world as a pilgrim in a foreign country. Thou art a stranger in Thine own […]

In this episode, we cover:The 14-Day Fast: An invitation for the entire community to join the "pioneers" in a collective season of fasting and prayer.The Power of the Tongue: How our words either "give grace to those who hear" or provide a legal foothold for the enemy to operate within the church.Grieving the Holy Spirit: Understanding that the Spirit doesn't just watch our "religious" lives, but is deeply affected by how we handle anger and conflict.Authority in Prayer: Observations from the Thursday morning 6:00 AM prayer calls and the rising authority in the voices of new intercessors.A Better Way: A preview of the upcoming focus on the spiritual practices of confession, forgiveness, and reconciliation.Binding the Spirit of Malice: A pastoral prayer to rid the house of bitterness, rage, and slander to make room for the fullness of God.Key Moments:[00:00] Kickoff: Initiating the collective 14 days of fasting and prayer.[10:15] Zoom Authority: Stories of God moving through screens during early morning intercession.[25:30] The Foothold: Why the devil probes our feelings and murmuring to find a way into our hearts.[42:10] Building One Another Up: Shifting the goal of conversation from venting to providing spiritual "vitamins" for the body.[55:00] Closing Benediction: A call to rise and commit to kindness and compassionate forgiveness.Key Scriptures:Ephesians 4:25-32: The blueprint for community life—putting off falsehood and speaking truth in love.Joshua 3:5: The recurring theme of consecration before the miracle.Psalm 141:3: "Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips."Connect with us:English Website: http://LeondeJuda.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cljofficial/#Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/congregacionleondejudaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeondeJudaBoston

Audio, eng_t_rav_2026-03-15_lesson_rb-1991-19-kuma-ashem_n1_p1. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 1

Video, eng_t_rav_2026-03-15_lesson_rb-1991-19-kuma-ashem_n1_p1. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 1

John 15:26-16:15,But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me. 27 And you also will bear witness, because you have been with me from the beginning.I have said all these things to you to keep you from falling away. 2 They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God. 3 And they will do these things because they have not known the Father, nor me. 4 But I have said these things to you, that when their hour comes you may remember that I told them to you.I did not say these things to you from the beginning, because I was with you. 5 But now I am going to him who sent me, and none of you asks me, “Where are you going?” 6 But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart. 7 Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. 8 And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; 10 concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; 11 concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.12 I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 15 All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.This morning we continue our walk through this amazing farewell discourse that Jesus has with his disciples. In just a matter of hours, Jesus will be betrayed, falsely accused, tortured, abandoned, and crucified. But before all these things take place, Jesus is preparing his disciples for what is to come. He wants them to be ready. And so the big question of our text this morning is…What does Jesus say to prepare his disciples?If we were to summarize Jesus's message to them in a sentence, I think it would be this: Hard times are ahead, but the Helper will come.So following that main idea, this sermon will have two parts: first, we will cover the hard times that are ahead for the disciples and what that means for us… and then we will spend the rest of our time considering that second part… the Helper to come.Part one: hard times are ahead.Part two: The Helper will come.1. Hard times are ahead.Last week we studied the end of John 15 where Jesus tells his disciples that the world will hate them because they hated him. And now Jesus tells his disciples how that hatred from the world will play out in their lives.First, in John 16:2, Jesus says,“they will put you out of the synagogues.”This means they will be outcasts among their Jewish kinsmen. They will be scorned and shamed for the sake of being associated with Jesus.And second, they will be killed for their faith in him. Again in verse 2, he says,“Indeed, the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God. They will do these things because they have not known the Father, nor me.”We read in Acts 12 that the Apostle James was killed by the sword. And though we can't be certain about the details, it is believed that all of the apostles, except perhaps John, were killed for their faith. Why does Jesus tell them these things?Jesus gives two reasons here.First, in John 16:1, he says,“I have said all these things to you to keep you from falling away…”And then again, in verse 4,“I have said these things to you, that when their hour comes you may remember that I told them to you.”Jesus wants his followers to faithfully endure the hard times when they come.The Lord only knows what trials are before each of us… But Scripture makes clear that all followers of Christ will face persecution of some form or another… 2 Timothy 3:12,“all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”And in Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas say to the disciples,“through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God”I've heard it said that everyone is either in a hard time, coming out of a hard time, or about to go into a hard time. And whether it's overt persecution, or some other trial of various sorts, Jesus wants you to be ready to endure!So how do we endure the hard times?We remember his words. In verse 4, Jesus says,“I have said these things to you, that when their hour comes you may remember that I told them to you.”What a gift this book is to us! That we can read the words of Jesus to us! That we can cherish and store God's thoughts and God's words in our hearts! So that we can remember his words to us when the hard times come!When our son Daniel was just a few months old, he went through what the experts call a “sleep regression.” I didn't know what this was before becoming a dad… but it's essentially when your baby starts sleeping well through the night and then one day decides, “that's not my thing anymore.”And I remember several nights being so angry at our baby as he would get us up or not go back to sleep. And… he's just a baby, doing what babies do!And one morning I read these words from Psalm 119,“I remember your name in the night O LORD, and keep your law.”And this verse hit me like a truck… I was not remembering the LORD in the night as I was angry with our helpless baby. And so I committed it to memory. And oh how precious has that verse been to me during the rough nights! And while my nighttime frustrations have still not completely vanished… I now have a weapon for that fight.Our Cities Church Leader Affirmation of Faith has such a helpful paragraph about this … In Article 11 titled ‘Living God's Word by Meditation and Prayer' it says this, “We believe that faith is awakened and sustained by God's Spirit through His Word and prayer. The good fight of faith is fought mainly by meditating on the Scriptures and praying that God would apply them to our souls…”We can remember the story of Charles Spurgeon from last week… who was comforted in his depression as he applied the word of God to his soul… That's the Christian life! It is a daily fight of faith! And our weapons are the Word of God and prayer.So… When a tempting image pops up on your phone:“Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things, and give me life in your ways!” (Ps. 119:37).Or when a tension arises in your marriage or with your kids:“Put on then as God's chosen ones holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience…” (Col. 3:12).Or when that wave of anxiety or depression sets in:“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you…” (Isa. 26:3)As I mention scripture memory, don't hear this as simply another burden to add or a box to check in the Christian life, but consider this question:Am I making good use of the treasure of God's word? For he has given this gift to us that we may remember his words in the hard times.God has given us his word, and he has also given us His Spirit. And this leads us into part two of the sermon, which is where we will spend the rest of our time. In part one, Jesus tells his disciples of the hard times that are ahead, and now part 2…2. The Helper will come.Jesus tells them that the Helper will come.Look with me, starting at the second half of verse 4. Jesus says,“I did not say these things to you from the beginning, because I was with you. 5 But now I am going to him who sent me, and none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?' 6 But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart. 7 Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. Surely this was the most pressing hard time for the disciples, because their Master was leaving. And Jesus says “it is to your advantage that I go away.”We can imagine the disciples saying, “how is it possibly better for you to leave us?!”The answer is the Holy Spirit.As Pastor Jonathan told us a few weeks ago from John 14, the Holy Spirit is the presence of Jesus in our lives. While Jesus is God who dwells with us… the Holy Spirit is God who dwells inside us believers! What a gift He is to us! God dwelling in us! Christ dwelling with us by His Spirit!He is the 3rd person of the Trinity, the Lord and giver of life, who eternally proceeds from the Father and the Son and is worshipped and glorified together with the Father and the Son and who spoke through the prophets.That's who the Holy Spirit is. And in this most anxious hour for the disciples, amazingly, Jesus comforts them with this promise of the Holy Spirit. We've looked briefly at who the Holy Spirit is, and in the rest of our time we will look at two things the Holy Spirit does…or the work of the Holy Spirit.Kevin DeYoung gives this great image to describe the Spirit. He says “the Holy Spirit is a spotlight.” He shines a spotlight on sin, and He shines a spotlight on Christ. So that's how we'll approach the rest of our text.The Holy Spirit shines a spotlight on sin.Look at verses 8-11,8 “And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in me 10 concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer 11 concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.”Jesus says the Holy Spirit convicts the world concerning three things: sin, righteousness, and judgment. What does he mean here?The Holy Spirit convicts concerning sin. This is fairly straightforward: To not believe in Jesus is to reject God Himself and thus not believing in Jesus is at the root of all sin.What about verse 10? Jesus says, the Holy Spirit convicts “concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father.” As Jesus goes to the Father, The Holy Spirit will make plain that the world has committed the greatest act of unrighteousness of all time by murdering Jesus, the Righteous One. And lastly, verse 11, he will convict “concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.” 1 John 3:8 tells us that the “reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.” And on that last day Jesus will do that finally and climactically as He casts Satan, his minions, and all who follow him into hell.I have been praying that the Holy Spirit would do his convicting work in this sermon. If you do not believe in Jesus this morning I pray that the Holy Spirit would make the realities of sin, righteousness, and judgment plain to you: That you are a sinner in desperate need of salvation and that apart from Christ you will die in your sins and be separated from God in hell forever.And if you are a Christian, my prayer is that we would have a fresh gratitude for the convicting work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Because it is good when the Holy Spirit shines a light on our sin. And when he does, he also shines a light on our Savior.The Holy Spirit shines a spotlight on Christ.Look with me at verses 12-15,12 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 15 All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.Like any good teacher, Jesus knows the capacity of his students… I have plans to teach my son many things: how to read his bible, how to drive a car… We'll get there, but right now it's Don't throw your food. Don't hit other kids in the face!Jesus has taught his disciples many things and as he ascends back to the Father, the Holy Spirit descends to continue that work of teaching in his disciples and “to guide them into all the truth.” What does it mean that the Spirit will guide them into all the truth?First, this means the Spirit will guide them to understand the teachings of Christ. He will cause them to remember his teachings, and to understand them fully after Jesus is raised from the dead.And second, the Spirit will guide them to the Teacher himself… He is the Spirit of Truth who will guide them to the one who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.Look again at verse 14, Jesus says,“He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.”The main job of the Holy Spirit is to point to another. To glorify another.To shine a spotlight on Jesus Himself.Theologian Fred Sanders says that studying the Holy Spirit can be slippery, meaning, when we try to focus in on just the Holy Spirit, we find ourselves inevitably being pointed back to Jesus. Because his job is to glorify Him!Sanders says this,“…even when the Holy Spirit opens our eyes to see and understand his work, what he primarily directs our attention to is not himself but Jesus Christ.”So when we consider the work of the Holy Spirit: He is a spotlight shining a light on sin and shining a light on Jesus himself.What does this mean for us today? If you are here and you're not a follower of Jesus… Scripture speaks of those who resist the Holy Spirit. I would urge you today… don't do that. Let the Holy Spirit shine a light on your sin and let him guide you to Jesus.Jesus who lived the perfect life that we all owe to God and who died on the cross as a substitute for his people. And who rose on the third day conquering sin and death for all who trust him. Believe in the Lord Jesus and be saved. Commit yourself to Him, and receive the Holy Spirit into your life!And if you are a follower of Christ, the end of chapter 15 says that the Holy Spirit bears witness to Christ, and He empowers us to do the same. This is what we see in the book of Acts…Disciples are filled with the Holy Spirit, and they boldly bear witness to Jesus. They can't stop talking about Him! And as we seek to be welcoming witnesses as a church, as we seek to invite others into this joy of knowing Jesus with us, oh how we need the Holy Spirit's help!And amazingly, in Luke 11 Jesus says,“if you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”Let's do that as a church! Let's ask for more of the Holy Spirit. More of his fruit in our lives, that we may be powerful witnesses to Christ in our homes, workplaces, and everywhere else we go. For the glory of Christ and our great joy in Him!

Evening lessons: Psalms 35; Proverbs 13; Colossians 2:20-3:11.  Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me, and fight against those who fight against me.

Evening lessons: Psalms 38; Proverbs 14; Colossians 3:12-25.  Rebuke me not, O Lord, in your anger, neither chasten me in your weighty displeasure.

Welcome to Day 2817 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2817 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 119:9-16 – Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2817 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2817 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. The title for today's Wisdom-Trek is: The Bet of Purity – Treasuring the Blueprint of the Cosmos. In our previous trek, we embarked on the monumental journey up the tallest mountain in the Psalter: Psalm One Hundred Nineteen. We explored the opening "Aleph" stanza, verses one through eight. There, we learned that true, flourishing joy is found exclusively by walking in the cosmic order of Yahweh's Torah. We recognized the agonizing tension of wanting to live a life of perfect integrity, while simultaneously battling our own inconsistency. We ended that trek with a raw, desperate plea, begging the Creator not to give up on us when our human resolve falters. Today, we take our next step along this magnificent, alphabetical trail. We are moving into the second stanza of Psalm One Hundred Nineteen, which corresponds to the second letter of the Hebrew alphabet: "Bet." We will be immersing ourselves in verses nine through sixteen, in the New Living Translation. If the Aleph stanza presented the grand, overarching theory of a blessed life, the Bet stanza gets incredibly practical. It moves from the cosmic blueprint down to the trenches of daily human experience. How do we actually stay on the path? How do we survive the constant, aggressive pull of the surrounding culture? In a world managed by hostile, rebel spiritual principalities, how does a frail human being maintain their spiritual loyalty? The psalmist answers these critical questions by shifting his focus inward. He reveals that the ultimate battleground for purity and faithfulness is not the external environment, but the internal terrain of the human heart and mind. Let us lace up our boots, and step into the Bet stanza. Psalm One Hundred Nineteen: verses nine and ten. How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. I have tried hard to find you— don't let me wander from your commands. The stanza opens with one of the most famous, and piercing, questions in the entire Bible: "How can a young person stay pure?" To fully grasp the weight of this question, we have to strip away our modern, Western assumptions. When we hear the word "pure," we almost exclusively think of moral cleanliness. While that is certainly included, the Ancient Israelite worldview encompassed something much broader. Purity meant absolute, uncompromised loyalty to Yahweh. It meant resisting the syncretism of the surrounding pagan nations. Remember the Divine Council theology. The nations of the world were under the jurisdiction of lesser, rebel gods—the elohim of the nations. These dark entities constantly enticed the Israelites with promises of fertility, wealth, and power, drawing them toward idolatrous practices. For a young person—someone whose habits and loyalties are still being formed—stepping out into that contested, spiritually hostile world was incredibly dangerous. The pull of the culture was, and still is, a gravitational force designed to drag the believer into chaos. So, how does a young person, or anyone for that matter, resist that pull? "By obeying your word." Literally, the Hebrew text says, "By taking heed, or keeping guard, according to your word." Purity is not passive innocence; it is active, vigilant defense. You stay pure by using the Word of God as a shield, measuring every cultural offer, every temptation, and every philosophy against the unyielding standard of the Creator's instructions. But the psalmist knows that his own vigilance is not enough. He cries out, "I have tried hard to find you—don't let me wander from your commands." Notice the beautiful, humble tension in verse ten. On one hand, he claims intense, wholehearted effort. He has not been lazy; he has searched for God with intense determination. Yet, in the exact same breath, he admits his terrifying vulnerability. Even with all his hard work, he knows his feet are prone to wander off the path. He essentially says, "Lord, I am running toward You as fast as I can, but please, grab my hand so I do not drift away." True purity requires both our aggressive pursuit, and God's sustaining grace. Psalm One Hundred Nineteen: verses eleven and twelve. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. I praise you, O Lord; teach me your decrees. Because human effort alone is insufficient, the psalmist reveals his ultimate survival strategy. "I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." In the ancient Hebrew understanding, the "heart"—the lev—was not just the seat of emotions, as we consider it today. The heart was the command center of the human being. It was the seat of the intellect, the will, and the decision-making process. To "hide" God's Word in the heart means to stockpile it, to treasure it, and to store it away like precious provisions preparing for a long, grueling siege. When the dark, rebel forces of this world lay siege to your mind, attacking you with fear, lust, or despair, you cannot run out to the library to find an answer. You must have the truth already stockpiled inside the fortress of your soul. When the Word of Yahweh occupies the command center of your intellect and will, it acts as an internal alarm system. It alerts you to the deceptive tactics of the enemy, ensuring that you "might not sin," or miss the mark of God's design. Immediately after revealing this strategy, the psalmist bursts into adoration: "I praise you, O Lord; teach me your decrees." He recognizes that God is not just a distant lawgiver, handing down a stone tablet and walking away. Yahweh is the ultimate Rabbi. He is the divine Teacher who desires a relationship with His students. The psalmist blesses God, and then immediately asks for more instruction. He knows that stockpiling the Word in his heart is not a one-time event; it is a lifelong, daily process of sitting at the feet of the Master. Psalm One Hundred Nineteen: verses thirteen and fourteen. I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us. I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches. The psalmist moves from the hidden, internal storage of the Word, to its outward, vocal expression. "I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us." In the ancient Near East, reading silently to oneself was almost unheard of. Texts were meant to be spoken, chanted, and proclaimed. But there is a deeper, spiritual dynamic at play here. Words have power. When God spoke in Genesis Chapter One, His words organized chaos into a flourishing creation. When the believer recites the regulations of Yahweh aloud, they are participating in that ordering process. They are projecting the truth of the Creator into the physical airwaves. In a world saturated with the lies and propaganda of the rebel gods, speaking the Word of God aloud is an act of spiritual warfare. It pushes back the darkness. It reinforces the truth not only in the ears of the listeners, but deeply into the mind of the speaker. And look at the value he places on these spoken decrees: "I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches." This is a staggering claim. In the ancient world, wealth—livestock, silver, gold, and abundant harvests—was the ultimate sign of security and success. People would sacrifice to the pagan deities like Baal, specifically begging for material prosperity. But the psalmist looks at the Torah, the covenant instructions of Yahweh, and says, "This is my true treasure." He realizes that material wealth is fleeting. It can be stolen by raiders, destroyed by drought, or left behind in the grave. But the laws of God provide eternal security. To know the mind of the Creator, and to walk in alignment with His cosmic order, brings a profound, unshakeable joy that a vault full of gold could never reproduce. Psalm One Hundred Nineteen: verses fifteen and sixteen. I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word. The Bet stanza concludes with a four-fold, ironclad resolution. The psalmist uses four distinct verbs to cement his commitment to the path of purity. First, "I will study your commandments." The Hebrew word here is sichah, which means to meditate, to muse, or to deeply ponder. It is the act of chewing on the text, turning it over and over in your mind, extracting every ounce of nutritional value it holds. Second, "I will... reflect on your ways." He is not just memorizing sterile rules; he is observing...

“Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my Savior and my God!” (Psalm 42:11 NLT) It’s not unusual for even the most spiritual people to have days of doubt. Moses, on one occasion at least, was overwhelmed by his circumstances. After he had listened to the constant complaining of the children of Israel, he said to the Lord, “I can’t carry all these people by myself! The load is far too heavy! If this is how you intend to treat me, just go ahead and kill me. Do me a favor and spare me this misery!” (Numbers 11:14–15 NLT). Elijah, after his contest with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, heard that Jezebel had put a contract out on his life. He was overwhelmed by his circumstances, discouraged, uncertain, and filled with doubt. First Kings 19:3–4 says, “Elijah was afraid and fled for his life. He went to Beersheba, a town in Judah, and he left his servant there. Then he went on alone into the wilderness, traveling all day. He sat down under a solitary broom tree and prayed that he might die. ‘I have had enough, Lord,’ he said. ‘Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors who have already died’” (NLT). The Old Testament prophet Jeremiah struggled occasionally, too. He was ridiculed and harassed for sharing the Word of God—so much so that he wanted to stop. He prayed, “O Lord, you misled me, and I allowed myself to be misled. You are stronger than I am, and you overpowered me. Now I am mocked every day; everyone laughs at me. When I speak, the words burst out. ‘Violence and destruction!’ I shout. So these messages from the Lord have made me a household joke. But if I say I’ll never mention the Lord or speak in his name, his word burns in my heart like a fire. It’s like a fire in my bones! I am worn out trying to hold it in! I can’t do it!” (Jeremiah 20:7–9 NLT). Even the great apostle Paul had moments when he was discouraged. He wrote to the church at Corinth, “We think you ought to know, dear brothers and sisters, about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it” (2 Corinthians 1:8 NLT). So, if you struggle with doubt, uncertainty, anxiety, or depression, you’re in good company. And, like the heroes of the faith, you need to be reminded that we can’t always see the big picture of God’s plan. But we can echo the words of the psalmist who said, “Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my Savior and my God!” (Psalm 42:11 NLT). Remember: We can always trust God’s heart, even when we can’t trace His path. Reflection question: How will you respond when doubt, anxiety, or depression threaten to overwhelm you? 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.

In You, O LORD, I put my trust; Let me never be put to shame. [NKJV]

Today's readings.. (Leviticus 21), (Psalm 120-124), (Luke 4)Psalm 121 today begins with a question – and sometimes this is not recognised.   The Psalmist is lifting up his eyes to the hills and asking, “from where does my help come?”   Does it come from the hills, the high places?     The pagan people around and all too often the Jewish people were attracted to do the same, they looked to high places where they felt they would be nearer where their God's dwelt.  When travelling in India one frequently sees hill tops crowned with Hindu temples.The 2nd verse answers the question, stating, “My help comes from the LORD who made heaven and earth.”  That is just as true today!  But what sort of help can seekers expect?  Well this Psalm is the second of 5 short Psalms to be read today which are called ‘A SONG OF ASCENTS'      Among the Jews these, and the ten Psalms which follow, are generally understood to be the songs that were sung as they went up to Jerusalem to worship in the Temple.  In some cases they would be coming from distant lands – remember the man from Ethiopia that Philip was sent by the Spirit to meet?  “he had come to Jerusalem to worship and was returning” [Acts 8 v.27]. Recall Isaiah's vision!  “It shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established as the highest of the mountains … and many people shall come and say, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD” [Isaiah 2 v.2,3] So what did the pilgrims going up to Jerusalem sing about?  Do these Psalms foreshadow our going up to Jerusalem in the future?  The first one (120) is, “In my distress I cried to the LORD and he answered me.  Deliver me O LORD, from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue” [v.1,2]   This illustrates the kind of help that was sought – and given – to genuine worshippers of God like David. It also shows the frame of mind of those who do not know God that those going up to Jerusalem leave behind!       Psalm 121 ends, “The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and for evermore.” The Lord watches over all the ways in which we travel, if we firmly believe our help comes from the Lord.  The verse will find its complete fulfilment when Jesus returns and the kingdom is established – and what a wonderful atmosphere then as we “go up to the mountain of the LORD.”.

According to unsubstantiated reports, it was about 50 years ago that Chinese immigrants to the United States brought some freshwater clams with them. The clams were eaten for good luck on Chinese New Year. What is substantiated is that today the clam is found in at least 35 states. That's an amazing amount of territory to cover in only 50 years for a creature that only has one foot.The spread of the Asian clam costs the industry over a billion dollars per year to clean up. Lacking enemies, it reproduces rapidly and clogs the water intake line which industry uses to cool its equipment. Scientists began to wonder how the creature could travel so rapidly even going from lake to lake and stream to stream.What scientists learned was that when the Asian calm encounters a current, it sets sail. Lifting off with its one foot, it releases a transparent film that catches the current like a sail. It sails off using its foot like a rudder. This explains not only why it spread so rapidly down rivers, but also how the clam could spread from one body of water to another during floods.The Asian clam's ability to sail is a clever design. So, too, is the balance of nature which prevents creatures from over-populating. Unfortunately, the Asian clam in the United States has few enemies to keep it under control. If evolution were true, such a lack of balance would be the rule in nature. The balance that exists, keeping each creature fed but not over-populated in their natural settings, is but another witness to the fact of the Creator.Psalm 104:24-25"O Lord, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts."Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, the balance You have designed between all living things, so that they can make their living and yet do not run out of control, shows Your continuing love toward the fallen creation. Help me to be a clear and specific witness to Your love for us in Jesus Christ. Amen. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1232/29?v=20251111

Prayer Doesn't Always Change Outcomes, But It Always Changes Us Living Compass Spirituality and Wellness Podcast Lent 2026 Series: Cultivating Healing and Wholeness in Heart, Soul, Strength, and Mind Episode Summary What happens when the healing we pray for doesn't come? In this episode, Scott Stoner — pastor, therapist, and founder of Living Compass — explores one of the most honest and tender questions in the spiritual life. Drawing on decades of walking with people through serious illness, disability, and dying, Scott reflects on the crucial distinction between cure, healing, and wholeness, and why prayer remains transformative even when outcomes don't change. Key Themes The difference between physical cure and deeper spiritual and emotional healing Why prayer changes us even when it doesn't change our circumstances Holding grief and anger honestly as part of authentic faith The "container" metaphor: how the spiritual life expands our capacity to hold suffering Walking with others through illness as its own form of healing ministry Quote of the Episode "Prayer doesn't always change outcomes, but it always changes us." Featured Prayer Scott reads the Prayer from the Book of Common Prayer (p. 461), from the Ministry to the Sick: "This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen" (BCP, p. 461).   Resources Mentioned

From a teenage boy in the fields alone with the sheep to a king in the palace, David's life knew trouble … trouble he made for himself, trouble from others, and a lot of trouble with his kids.Despite his issues, David constantly showed us how to turn to the Lord with anything and everything.Listen to Psalm 18:1-6 …I love you, Lord; you are my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety.  I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies. The ropes of death entangled me; floods of destruction swept over me. The grave wrapped its ropes around me; death laid a trap in my path. But in my distress I cried out to the Lord; yes, I prayed to my God for help. He heard me from his sanctuary; my cry to him reached his ears. (NLT) If you were to composed a psalm of your own, what would you say to God? What would you say about God?You know what enemies, threats, floods, and distress feel like, don't you? Do you know the other side David speaks about? To allow God to rescue you? To cry out to Him for help?Listen to part of this passage again in The New Life Bible … I love You, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, and my safe place, and the One Who takes me out of trouble. My God is my rock, in Whom I am safe. He is my safe-covering, my saving strength, and my strong tower. I call to the Lord, Who has the right to be praised. And I am saved from those who hate me. The ropes of death were all around me. The floods of death make me afraid. The ropes of the grave were all around me. The traps of death were set for me. I called to the Lord in my trouble. I cried to God for help. He heard my voice from His holy house. My cry for help came into His ears.Let's take a few moments to list some of the major troubles you have experienced … maybe something you are walking through right now?Now list what God has done or what You want to see Him do?Listing, even writing out your prayers is a great exercise … one you might try doing with your kids too.Let's pray together: “Heavenly Father, You are my strength, my Rock, my Safe Place, my Covering, my Strong Tower. Thank You for hearing me when I cry out to You. Thank You for answering, not always on my time, but on Yours. As above, so below.”

Daily Evening Prayer (3/12/26) from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN): Psalms 65-67; Joshua 5; 1 Thessalonians 3; Metrical Psalm 3:1-51 How num'rous, Lord, of late are grown the troublers of my peace! And, as their numbers hourly rise, so does their rage increase. 2 Insulting they my soul upbraid, and him whom I adore; The God in whom he trusts, say they, shall rescue him no more. 3 But thou, O Lord, art my defense; on thee my hopes rely; Thou art my glory, and shalt yet lift up my head on high. 4 Since whensoe'er in like distress to God I made my pray'r, He heard me from his holy hill, why should I now despair? 5 Guarded by him, I laid me down my sweet repose to take; For I through him securely sleep, through him in safety wake.If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/To own a hymnal, visit: https://anglicanhousepublishers.org/shop/the-book-of-common-praise-of-the-reformed-episcopal-church/

Daily Evening Prayer (3/12/26) from Trinity Anglican Church (Connersville, IN): Psalms 65-67; Joshua 5; 1 Thessalonians 3; Metrical Psalm 3:1-51 How num'rous, Lord, of late are grown the troublers of my peace! And, as their numbers hourly rise, so does their rage increase. 2 Insulting they my soul upbraid, and him whom I adore; The God in whom he trusts, say they, shall rescue him no more. 3 But thou, O Lord, art my defense; on thee my hopes rely; Thou art my glory, and shalt yet lift up my head on high. 4 Since whensoe'er in like distress to God I made my pray'r, He heard me from his holy hill, why should I now despair? 5 Guarded by him, I laid me down my sweet repose to take; For I through him securely sleep, through him in safety wake.If you find this ministry edifying, please consider making a one-time donation or becoming a regular contributor here: https://trinityconnersville.com/give/To read along, visit: https://ie.dailyoffice1662.com/To sing along with the Brady and Tate Metrical Psalter, visit: https://www.friendsofsabbath.org/cgmusic.com/workshop/newver_frame.htmTo own a Bible, visit: https://www.thomasnelsonbibles.com/product/kjv-center-column-reference-bible-with-apocrypha/To own a hymnal, visit: https://anglicanhousepublishers.org/shop/the-book-of-common-praise-of-the-reformed-episcopal-church/

“If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.”   Psalm 130: 3-4    Submit a Podcast Listener Question HERE!    Podcasts by Series  Level One Book Study  Level Two Book Study  “To ‘build the house' which morality will inhabit, some mastery of the body is necessary” (Spontaneous Activity in Education, 7: Will, 147  “We must always give the children “the big picture” that informs and sustains immediate behaviors. Bracketing for a moment all we have said up to this point about presenting the kerygma, what foundation would moral exhortation rest upon without kerygma? If moral exhortation were left to stand alone, if good behaviors were taught for their own sake, it would be like preparing robots who know and follow rules instead of persons who participate in God's plan for the fullness of life.” (RPCII, 94)  “We must remember that Christian morality is a morality of “you can.” Through the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, “we can”; or, in the words of St. Paul, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).” (RPCII, 88)  Carolyn joins the conversation today to walk us through how morality evolves and progresses in a child's life and how we can meet those needs in all levels of the atria.  Carolyn Kohlhaas is a nationally recognized Formation Leader for CGS at all three levels of formation. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology and in Religious Education from Franciscan University of Steubenville and her AMI Primary (3-6) and Elementary (6-12) Level Certifications from the Montessori Training Center of Minnesota. Carolyn has a Master of Education degree (Loyola College, Maryland) as well as a Master of Arts in Theology (St. Paul Seminary School of Divinity). She has worked with children in Atriums in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis since 2006 and with adults in formation courses across the US since 2009.  wosatrium.weebly.com      Books you might be interested in:  The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Year Olds  History of the Kingdom of God Part 1: Creation to Parouisa  History of the Kingdom of God Part 2: Liturgy and the Building of the Kingdom  Life in the Vine: The Joyful Journey Continues    Podcast Episodes you might be interested in:  Episode 34 – The Paschal Mystery  Episode 55 – Cosmic Education      TINA LILIG MEMORIAL FUND  During the month of February, we remember our first national director, Valentina Lillig, and we honor her legacy by encouraging generosity to the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund.     The mission of the Tina Lillig Memorial Fund is to support the growth and development of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd through catechist formation, missionary outreach, and the work of the United States Association of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGSUSA). To these ends, the TLM Fund offers a source of financial aid (in the form of partial scholarships) to applicants who would find paying the full tuition of a course to be a hardship.    If you or your community needs scholarship or grant support for formation, please visit our website and apply [this could be a link in the show notes]. The next deadline for applications is April 30. Thank you to all the donors who have generously supported the TLM Fund and made formation courses possible for catechists across the US and the world.      BECOME A CGSUSA MEMBER          AUDIOBOOK:    Audiobook – Now Available on Audible  CGSUSA is excited to offer you the audio version of The Religious Potential of the Child – 3rd Edition by Sofia Cavalletti, read by Rebekah Rojcewicz!  The Religious Potential of the Child is not a “how-to” book, complete with lesson plans and material ideas. Instead it offers a glimpse into the religious life of the atrium, a specially prepared place for children to live out their silent request: “Help me come closer to God by myself.” Here we can see the child's spiritual capabilities and perhaps even find in our own souls the child long burdened with religious information. This book serves as a companion to the second volume, The Religious Potential of the Child 6 to 12 Years Old. The desire to have this essential text available in audio has been a long-held goal for many. The work of many hands has combined to bring this release to life as an audiobook.    Find out more about CGS:       Learn more about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd     Follow us on Social Media-  Facebook at “The United States Association of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”  Instagram-  cgsusa  Twitter- @cgsusa  Pinterest- Natl Assoc of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd USA  YouTube- catechesisofthegoodshepherd 

"O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. Here is the sea, great and wide, which teems with creatures innumerable, living things both small and great." Psalm 104:24-25  

Evening lessons: Psalms 31; Proverbs 11; Colossians 1:21-2:7.  In you, O Lord, have I put my trust; let me never be  put to confusion; deliver me in your righteousness.

Morning lessons: Psalms 26, 28; Exodus 19; Matthew 19:16-20:16.  Be my judge, O Lord, for I have walked innocently; my trust had been in the Lord,; therefore I shall not fall.

Morning lessons: Psalms 25; Exodus 18; Matthew 19:1-15.  Unto you, O Lord will I lift up my soul; my God, I have put my trust in you; O let me not be ashamed, let not my enemies triumph over me.

Join us this week as Pastor John takes us through Nehemiah chapter 8. __ "Breakthroughs" Nehemiah 8:1-12 A picture of a breakthrough can empower us to pursue a burden. 1. Breakthroughs have no limits. - Breakthroughs aren't limited to certain people, past, or place. - “The remnant there in the province who had survived the exile is in great trouble and shame….” (Neh. 1:3). - precincts of the temple, so that none might be barred from attending…” They made space for a breakthrough to take place. 2. Breakthroughs happen through a hunger for God's Word. Jer. 15:16, Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts. Ezekiel 3:2-3 2 So I opened my mouth, and he gave me this scroll to eat. 3 And he said to me, “Son of man, feed your belly with this scroll that I give you and fill your stomach with it.” Then I ate it, and it was in my mouth as sweet as honey. when he ate the Word and it became sweet as honey. 3. Breakthroughs heighten by the joy of the Lord - 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Heb. 12:2)

5.1 Afterward Moses and Aaron went and said to Pharaoh, “Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, ‘Let my people go, that they may hold a feast to me in the wilderness.'” 2 But Pharaoh said, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord, and moreover, I will not let Israel go.” 3 Then they said, “The God of the Hebrews has met with us. Please let us go a three days' journey into the wilderness that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God, lest he fall upon us with pestilence or with the sword.” 4 But the king of Egypt said to them, “Moses and Aaron, why do you take the people away from their work? Get back to your burdens.” 5 And Pharaoh said, “Behold, the people of the land are now many, and you make them rest from their burdens!” 6 The same day Pharaoh commanded the taskmasters of the people and their foremen, 7 “You shall no longer give the people straw to make bricks, as in the past; let them go and gather straw for themselves. 8 But the number of bricks that they made in the past you shall impose on them, you shall by no means reduce it, for they are idle. Therefore they cry, ‘Let us go and offer sacrifice to our God.' 9 Let heavier work be laid on the men that they may labor at it and pay no regard to lying words.”10 So the taskmasters and the foremen of the people went out and said to the people, “Thus says Pharaoh, ‘I will not give you straw. 11 Go and get your straw yourselves wherever you can find it, but your work will not be reduced in the least.'” 12 So the people were scattered throughout all the land of Egypt to gather stubble for straw. 13 The taskmasters were urgent, saying, “Complete your work, your daily task each day, as when there was straw.” 14 And the foremen of the people of Israel, whom Pharaoh's taskmasters had set over them, were beaten and were asked, “Why have you not done all your task of making bricks today and yesterday, as in the past?”15 Then the foremen of the people of Israel came and cried to Pharaoh, “Why do you treat your servants like this? 16 No straw is given to your servants, yet they say to us, ‘Make bricks!' And behold, your servants are beaten; but the fault is in your own people.” 17 But he said, “You are idle, you are idle; that is why you say, ‘Let us go and sacrifice to the Lord.' 18 Go now and work. No straw will be given you, but you must still deliver the same number of bricks.” 19 The foremen of the people of Israel saw that they were in trouble when they said, “You shall by no means reduce your number of bricks, your daily task each day.” 20 They met Moses and Aaron, who were waiting for them, as they came out from Pharaoh; 21 and they said to them, “The Lord look on you and judge, because you have made us stink in the sight of Pharaoh and his servants, and have put a sword in their hand to kill us.”22 Then Moses turned to the Lord and said, “O Lord, why have you done evil to this people? Why did you ever send me? 23 For since I came to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has done evil to this people, and you have not delivered your people at all.”

MAR. 5, 2026It came to pass-not stay."It came to pass." Ge 4:3 NKJVThere is a little phrase repeated 436 times in the Bible: "It came to pass." Whatever trial you are going through today, remind yourself, "It came to pass-not stay." If the fulfillment of the vision God gave you seems to be taking longer than you thought, remind yourself "it will come to pass!" In his biography, God in My Corner, the two-time world heavyweight champion George Foreman tells a story about an elderly woman who was asked her favorite Scripture verse. She replied: "And it came to pass." She explained why: "I know that whenever a trial comes, it doesn't come to stay; it comes—to pass." And the Scripture on the flipside of this coin reads:"Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion" (Php 1:6 NIV). In other words, He will bring it to pass! Either way, God always finishes what He starts. "The vision is yet for an appointed time… Though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come [to pass]" (Hab 2:3 NKJV). Battling an illness that threatened his life, and enemies who wanted to take his throne, David turned to the Lord for help. And God didn't disappoint him. Read these two Scriptures and stand on them: "Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning" (Ps 30:5 NLT). "You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy, that I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever!" (Ps 30:11-12 NLT).It came to pass-not stay God always finishes what He starts.Share This DevotionalSend a textSupport the showChanging Lives | Building Strong Family | Impacting Our Community For Jesus Christ!

ਸੂਹੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੪ ॥ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਭਜਿਓ ਪੁਰਖੋਤਮੁ ਸਭਿ ਬਿਨਸੇ ਦਾਲਦ ਦਲਘਾ ॥ ਭਉ ਜਨਮ ਮਰਣਾ ਮੇਟਿਓ ਗੁਰ ਸਬਦੀ ਹਰਿ ਅਸਥਿਰੁ ਸੇਵਿ ਸੁਖਿ ਸਮਘਾ ॥੧॥ ਮੇਰੇ ਮਨ ਭਜੁ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮ ਅਤਿ ਪਿਰਘਾ ॥ ਮੈ ਮਨੁ ਤਨੁ ਅਰਪਿ ਧਰਿਓ ਗੁਰ ਆਗੈ ਸਿਰੁ ਵੇਚਿ ਲੀਓ ਮੁਲਿ ਮਹਘਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ ਨਰਪਤਿ ਰਾਜੇ ਰੰਗ ਰਸ ਮਾਣਹਿ ਬਿਨੁ ਨਾਵੈ ਪਕੜਿ ਖੜੇ ਸਭਿ ਕਲਘਾ ॥ ਧਰਮ ਰਾਇ ਸਿਰਿ ਡੰਡੁ ਲਗਾਨਾ ਫਿਰਿ ਪਛੁਤਾਨੇ ਹਥ ਫਲਘਾ ॥੨॥ ਹਰਿ ਰਾਖੁ ਰਾਖੁ ਜਨ ਕਿਰਮ ਤੁਮਾਰੇ ਸਰਣਾਗਤਿ ਪੁਰਖ ਪ੍ਰਤਿਪਲਘਾ ॥ ਦਰਸਨੁ ਸੰਤ ਦੇਹੁ ਸੁਖੁ ਪਾਵੈ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਲੋਚ ਪੂਰਿ ਜਨੁ ਤੁਮਘਾ ॥੩॥ ਤੁਮ ਸਮਰਥ ਪੁਰਖ ਵਡੇ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਸੁਆਮੀ ਮੋ ਕਉ ਕੀਜੈ ਦਾਨੁ ਹਰਿ ਨਿਮਘਾ ॥ ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮੁ ਮਿਲੈ ਸੁਖੁ ਪਾਵੈ ਹਮ ਨਾਮ ਵਿਟਹੁ ਸਦ ਘੁਮਘਾ ॥੪॥੨॥ SOOHEE, FOURTH MEHL:I chant and vibrate the Name of the Lord God, the Supreme Being, Har, Har; my poverty and problems have all been eradicated. The fear of birth and death has been erased, through the Word of the Guru's Shabad; serving the Unmoving, Unchanging Lord, I am absorbed in peace. || 1 || O my mind, vibrate the Name of the most Beloved, Darling Lord. I have dedicated my mind and body, and placed them in offering before the Guru; I have sold my head to the Guru, for a very dear price. || 1 || Pause || The kings and the rulers of men enjoy pleasures and delights, but without the Name of the Lord, death seizes and dispatches them all. The Righteous Judge of Dharma strikes them over the heads with his staff, and when the fruits of their actions come into their hands, then they regret and repent. || 2 || Save me, save me, Lord; I am Your humble servant, a mere worm. I seek the Protection of Your Sanctuary, O Primal Lord, Cherisher and Nourisher. Please bless me with the Blessed Vision of the Saint's Darshan, that I may find peace. O God, please fulfill the desires of Your humble servant. || 3 || You are the All-powerful, Great, Primal God, my Lord and Master. O Lord, please bless me with the gift of humility. Servant Nanak has found the Naam, the Name of the Lord, and is at peace; I am forever a sacrifice to the Naam. || 4 || 2 ||ਅਰਥ: ਹੇ ਮੇਰੇ ਮਨ! ਸਦਾ ਪਰਮਾਤਮਾ ਦਾ ਅੱਤ ਪਿਆਰਾ ਨਾਮ ਸਿਮਰਿਆ ਕਰ। ਹੇ ਭਾਈ! ਮੈਂ ਆਪਣਾ ਮਨ ਆਪਣਾ ਸਰੀਰ ਭੇਟਾ ਕਰ ਕੇ ਗੁਰੂ ਦੇ ਅੱਗੇ ਰੱਖ ਦਿੱਤਾ ਹੈ। ਮੈਂ ਆਪਣਾ ਸਿਰ ਮਹਿੰਗੇ ਮੁੱਲ ਦੇ ਵੱਟੇ ਵੇਚ ਦਿੱਤਾ ਹੈ (ਮੈਂ ਸਿਰ ਦੇ ਇਵਜ਼ ਕੀਮਤੀ ਹਰਿ-ਨਾਮ ਲੈ ਲਿਆ ਹੈ) ।੧।ਰਹਾਉ।ਹੇ ਭਾਈ! ਜਿਸ ਮਨੁੱਖ ਨੇ ਪਰਮਾਤਮਾ ਦਾ ਨਾਮ ਜਪਿਆ ਹੈ, ਹਰੀ ਉੱਤਮ ਪੁਰਖ ਨੂੰ ਜਪਿਆ ਹੈ, ਉਸ ਦੇ ਸਾਰੇ ਦਰਿੱਦ੍ਰ, ਦਲਾਂ ਦੇ ਦਲ ਨਾਸ ਹੋ ਗਏ ਹਨ। ਗੁਰੂ ਦੇ ਸ਼ਬਦ ਵਿਚ ਜੁੜ ਕੇ ਉਸ ਮਨੁੱਖ ਨੇ ਜਨਮ ਮਰਨ ਦਾ ਡਰ ਭੀ ਮੁਕਾ ਲਿਆ। ਸਦਾ-ਥਿਰ ਰਹਿਣ ਵਾਲੇ ਪਰਮਾਤਮਾ ਦੀ ਸੇਵਾ-ਭਗਤੀ ਕਰ ਕੇ ਉਹ ਆਨੰਦ ਵਿਚ ਲੀਨ ਹੋ ਗਿਆ।੧।ਹੇ ਭਾਈ! ਦੁਨੀਆ ਦੇ ਰਾਜੇ ਮਹਾਰਾਜੇ (ਮਾਇਆ ਦੇ) ਰੰਗ ਰਸ ਮਾਣਦੇ ਰਹਿੰਦੇ ਹਨ, ਨਾਮ ਤੋਂ ਸੱਖਣੇ ਰਹਿੰਦੇ ਹਨ, ਉਹਨਾਂ ਸਭਨਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਆਤਮਕ ਮੌਤ ਫੜ ਕੇ ਅੱਗੇ ਲਾ ਲੈਂਦੀ ਹੈ। ਜਦੋਂ ਉਹਨਾਂ ਨੂੰ ਕੀਤੇ ਕਰਮਾਂ ਦਾ ਫਲ ਮਿਲਦਾ ਹੈ, ਜਦੋਂ ਉਹਨਾਂ ਦੇ ਸਿਰ ਉਤੇ ਪਰਮਾਤਮਾ ਦਾ ਡੰਡਾ ਵੱਜਦਾ ਹੈ, ਤਦੋਂ ਪਛਤਾਂਦੇ ਹਨ।੨।ਹੇ ਹਰੀ! ਹੇ ਪਾਲਣਹਾਰ ਸਰਬ-ਵਿਆਪਕ! ਅਸੀ ਤੇਰੇ (ਪੈਦਾ ਕੀਤੇ) ਨਿਮਾਣੇ ਜੀਵ ਹਾਂ, ਅਸੀ ਤੇਰੀ ਸਰਨ ਆਏ ਹਾਂ, ਤੂੰ ਆਪ (ਆਪਣੇ) ਸੇਵਕਾਂ ਦੀ ਰੱਖਿਆ ਕਰ। ਹੇ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ! ਮੈਂ ਤੇਰਾ ਦਾਸ ਹਾਂ, ਦਾਸ ਦੀ ਤਾਂਘ ਪੂਰੀ ਕਰ, ਇਸ ਦਾਸ ਨੂੰ ਸੰਤ ਜਨਾਂ ਦਾ ਦਰਸਨ ਬਖ਼ਸ਼ (ਤਾ ਕਿ ਇਹ ਦਾਸ) ਆਤਮਕ ਆਨੰਦ ਪ੍ਰਾਪਤ ਕਰ ਸਕੇ।੩।ਹੇ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ! ਹੇ ਸਭ ਤੋਂ ਵੱਡੇ ਮਾਲਕ! ਤੂੰ ਸਾਰੀਆਂ ਤਾਕਤਾਂ ਦਾ ਮਾਲਕ ਪੁਰਖ ਹੈਂ। ਮੈਨੂੰ ਇਕ ਛਿਨ ਵਾਸਤੇ ਹੀ ਆਪਣੇ ਨਾਮ ਦਾ ਦਾਨ ਦੇਹ। ਹੇ ਦਾਸ ਨਾਨਕ! ਆਖ-) ਜਿਸ ਨੂੰ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਦਾ ਨਾਮ ਪ੍ਰਾਪਤ ਹੁੰਦਾ ਹੈ, ਉਹ ਆਨੰਦ ਮਾਣਦਾ ਹੈ। ਮੈਂ ਸਦਾ ਹਰਿ-ਨਾਮ ਤੋਂ ਸਦਕੇ ਹਾਂ।੪।੨।

O Lord, our God, unwearied is your love for us.St. Helena Ministries is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit. Your donations may be tax-deductibleSupport us at: sthelenaministries.com/supportPresentation of the Liturgy of the Hours (Divine Office) from The Liturgy of the Hours (Four Volumes) © 1975, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. The texts of Biblical readings are reproduced from the New American Bible © 1975

8 "Holy Holy Holy is the Lord God Almighty, the One who was and is and is to come... 11 You are worthy , O LORD our God, to receive glory and honor and power...".  God, You are worthy indeed! Let our hearts and voices ring out with praises to our LORD! 

Lamentations March 08, 2026 Teacher: Pastor Dave Brown The message explains that many people look forward to Lamentations 3 because it finally introduces hope, but that hope has to be understood within the structure and emotional movement of the entire book. Lamentations doesn't offer quick fixes or simplistic spiritual answers; instead, it honestly portrays how real grief works. The book follows a chiastic structure — a literary “mountain” that rises toward a central point and then descends in reverse order. In Lamentations, the structure looks like this: A: Devastation B: Accusation C: Remembrance (the central peak) B': Reflection A': Petition This structure mirrors how sorrow actually feels: pain → hope struggle → pain again — but the second pain is different because it has been reshaped by remembrance. To illustrate, the speaker tells a story of a brutal bike climb up Smugglers Notch in Vermont. Reaching the summit felt like it should be the end, but instead the road immediately plunged downward into danger, rain, cold, and exhaustion. The lesson: reaching the “summit” didn't end the struggle, but it changed everything. That experience parallels the emotional journey of Lamentations 3. In the chapter, we hear an exhausted “strongman” voice say, “But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope…” This moment is the theological summit — but the book doesn't end there. Pain returns in chapters 4–5. The city is still ruined. Exile is still real. But the heart posture has changed. Before remembrance, God felt like an enemy; after remembrance, the people can say, “Restore us, O Lord.” Hope doesn't erase hardship — it reorients the heart within it. Lamentations 3 shows that hope is not automatic. The strongman speaks hope to himself: “This I call to mind…” “I say to myself…” Hope is fought for, practiced, and rehearsed, not simply felt. The passage reveals three essential truths about biblical hope: Hope is intentional remembrance. He chooses to recall God's covenant love. Hope doesn't replace lament — it deepens it. Even after declaring God's faithfulness, he continues to speak honestly about affliction and waiting. Hope provides endurance, not instant relief. Waiting “quietly” for God is active, anchored perseverance. By the end, the writer's circumstances remain unchanged — Jerusalem is still in ruins — but something inside him has stabilized. That inner steadying is itself an act of grace. The message concludes by reminding us that many of us are somewhere on that mountain: climbing, descending, exhausted, or caught in unexpected weather. Lamentations gives permission to tell the truth about pain. Hope is not pretending everything is fine but speaking covenant truths into unfinished stories. The lament tree in the lobby symbolizes this: a communal place to name sorrow and reach for hope together. Finally, the message points to Christ, who personally entered lament and suffering. So when we rehearse hope through clenched teeth, we are not failing— we are walking the same honest path God Himself walked. The storm may persist, but God's mercies remain new every morning, and that is enough.

March 8, 2026, Worship Service Groveport UMC, Groveport Ohio To support the ministry of the church, please click here: https://groveportumc.org/give/ OPENING SONG: “The Gift of Love” - #408 WELCOME & ANNOUNCEMENTS OPENING PRAYER: Gracious God, as we gather this morning, we know we are one week closer to the sorrow of the cross and the joy of Easter morning. By your Spirit, shape this time of worship. Ready our hearts for the hard days and the good days ahead. Help us listen, repent, and trust you again. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. PRELUDE & LIGHTING OF THE ALTAR CANDLES “Almighty“ HYMN: “There is Power in the Blood” CALL TO WORSHIP: Leader: When we hunger People: We cry to the Lord, “Help us, O Lord.” Leader: When we thirst People: We cry to the Lord, “Help us, O Lord.” Leader: God who created the heavens and the earth hears our cries. People: Lord, come and quench our thirst and heal our hunger. AMEN. HYMN: “Open Our Eyes, Lord” - #426 FIRST SCRIPTURE READING Romans 7:15-25 OUR TIME OF PRAYER (During our time of prayer, the altar rail is open for all who wish to come forward.) HYMN “Sanctuary” PASTORAL PRAYER THE LORD'S PRAYER OUR TITHES AND OFFERINGS: “In the Garden” *DOXOLOGY *PRAYER OF DEDICATION CHILDREN'S MOMENTS (All children are invited to attend Jr. Church at this time.) SECOND SCRIPTURE READING Mark 14:26-42 SERMON “The Spirit is Willing, But…“ *CLOSING HYMN: “Ye Servants of God” - #181 *BENEDICTION *SENDING FORTH: “Shalom to You” POSTLUDE “I'll Fly Away”

Morning lessons: Psalms 18:1-20; Exodus 15; Matthew 17:1-23.  I will love you, O Lord my strength; the Lord is my rock, my stronghold, and my deliverer.

Evening lessons: Psalms 17; Proverbs 6; Philippians 2:1-11.  Hear what is right, O Lord; consider my complaint; hearken to my prayer, which does not come from lying lips.

March 7, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Lent 3 - Psalm 25:1-2, 17-18, 20; antiphon: Psalm 25:15-16Daily Lectionary: Genesis 27:1-29; Mark 8:22-38“To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.” (Psalm 25:1) In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. O Lord, to You I lift up my soul. I trust in You. Yes, my life rests on You, for You are the unshakable foundation. That's what my Baptism tells me. I have been put into You, my Mighty Fortress. Sin, Death, and Satan can't crush and hush me for You have overcome these enemies by Your bleeding, dying, third-day rising. I believe this, O Lord, and yet I struggle. There are days I look around and my eyes get the best of me. It can look like Sin, Death, and Satan are in charge. O Lord, I know this is not true. You are Lord over all! Therefore, help me to walk by faith and not by sight. Open the eyes of my heart to see You as my deliverer. I'm helpless to save myself, after all, but I am not hopeless. You are my hope. This is not wishful thinking but a sure confidence that You will come through for me in Your way and Your time.  I feel alone some days, but Your promise is that You are with me always. Your promises can't fail. They will never lead me astray. You tell the truth, for You are the Truth. There's no reason, therefore, for me to ignore what I'm going through or try to cover it up with a smiley face. I can be honest since nothing can surprise You. There are troubles in my life that I can't get myself out of. Troubles that I am responsible for and those that have been brought into my life by others. These troubles teach me that I'm not in control. I ask You to consider all the sufferings and troubles I have, and please forgive me. Cover my sins with Your righteousness. Cleanse me with Your blood. Every part of my life, You have redeemed with Your blood, and I will on the Last Day get to see how You used it all for my good. I won't be able to stop smiling!       Now I wait. It's not always easy with all the pains and problems in this life. So please, Lord, guard my heart from the attacks of Satan, who wants me to give in, give up, and give out. The Cross is my reminder that You can and will deliver me from all my fears and tears. You did not stay dead but rose on Easter Morning, securing for me my own Easter Morning on the Last Day! Because You are my refuge, I can't be shaken. Nothing and no one can destroy me. I trust in You and will not be put to shame. O Lord, to You I lift up my soul.     In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. While I am a pilgrim here, Let Thy love my spirit cheer; As my guide, my guard, my friend, Lead me to my journey's end. (LSB 779:5)Rev. Aaron Schian is pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Auburn, MI.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.We wander through life looking for freedom, only to realize we have listened to the devil's call to serve our selves, our pleasures, and our lusts. Instead of freedom we find ourselves enslaved to sin. We wonder if we have sinned too often, too deep to ever be welcomed back to the Father's home, back into His loving embrace. Have we lost our inheritance as children of God?In this short book, author Bryan Wolfmueller digs into the popular parable of the Prodigal Son to bring hope and aid to our hurting conscience. Wolfmueller proclaims the freedom-giving Gospel that through Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection, our place in the Father's house is secure, and forgiveness and welcome are ours in His outstretched arms. Fully Free, now available from CPH.

❖ Today's Bible reading is Psalm 70: www.ESV.org/Psalm70 ❖ 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/

Morning lessons: Psalms 12, 13, 14; Exodus 14; Matthew 16:13-28.  Help me, O Lord, for there is no godly one left; for the faithful have vanished from among the children of men.

A coincidence occurs when two events that you know are not related happen in such a way that they seem related. Let's say that you receive an unexpected bill in the mail for $124.00. And in the same day's mail, you find a check for $124.00 with a note from a friend saying, "Here's the $100.00 you loaned me four years ago with some interest." What a happy coincidence.When more than two seemingly unrelated events seem to work together, you would have to conclude that they were, indeed, related.That's why scientists are beginning to wonder whether there isn't a plan to the universe after all. For life to exist in the universe, literally millions of details must come together in just the right way. If the force of gravity or the forces holding the atom together were only a tiny bit stronger or weaker, life could not exist. The carbon atom is the basis of life. Is it coincidence that the carbon atom is unique in its ability to form the long, complex chains of molecules needed for life? If stars burned at a slightly different rate than they do, life would either be burned up or frozen to death.Many scientists have actually stated in writing that they are astonished at the huge number of cosmic "coincidences" that have come together in the universe to make life possible. Some are even suggesting that the universe has an impersonal intelligence. But why cloud the issue this way? Why not simply recognize that there is indeed a Creator God who has created a whole universe just for the benefit of life—especially humankind?Psalm 40:5"Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered."Prayer: Dear Lord, I thank You that despite man's studied unbelief, You have made Yourself and Your concern for mankind so clear that even unbelievers must recognize it. Use me and all of Your people to clearly voice the more complete details of Your love for all mankind in Your innocent suffering and death on our behalf. Amen.REF.: Mallove, Eugene F. Scientists puzzle over coincidences of the cosmos. Minneapolis Star and Tribune. Image: ISS-66 Astronaut Mark Vande peers at the Earth below, NASA, PD, Wikimedia Commons. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1232/29?v=20251111

Listen to the powerful words of King David from Psalms 84. He says, “How lovely is your dwelling place. O Lord almighty. My soul yearns, even faints for the courts of the Lord. My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.” In ancient Israel, God's dwelling place was the temple. His people would go to the temple to meet with Him there. But now, because of the work of Jesus, God's dwelling place is within us. I recently shared about God at a women's prison. I met the most beautiful women there; women who had met Jesus right there in that place. They had fallen in love with Him in prison. Wherever you are, God Himself will make His dwelling with you. Always remember, there is hope with God. Scripture Reference: Psalm 84: 1-2 radio.hopewithgod.com

Morning lessons: Psalms 8, 11; Exodus 13; Matthew 15:29-16:12.  O Lord our Governor, how excellent is your Name in all the world; you have set your glory above the heavens.

Imagine the impact on your life if you began to make this verse your daily prayer. What if we began every morning by letting God know our desire is that the words of our mouth and the thoughts in our minds be pleasing to Him?Main Points:1. Our choices, decisions, actions, and ultimately our lifestyle are determined by our thoughts and our words. This makes self-control so vital for us. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we must control our words and thoughts. 2. All of us have said, “I shouldn't have thought that, and I wish I hadn't said that.” I believe with this prayer, David is telling us that our thoughts and words don't have to be impetuous. You and I are not without control. The Holy Spirit resides within us to give us power for daily living.3. As we learn to pay attention to our thoughts, we ask the question, “Does this thought please God? Does it honor the Lord? As we ask this all-important question, we can immediately take action. We can entertain the thought if it does please God, but if it doesn't, we can cast it out. We can reject the thought. We can refuse to think about things that don't please the Lord.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 19:14 - “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”2 Corinthians 10:5 - “…we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” James 3:8 - “…no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”James 1:19 - “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Evening lessons: Psalms 10; Proverbs 4; Philippians 1:1-11.  Why do you stand so far off, O Lord, and hide your face in time of need and trouble?

Morning lessons: Psalms 9; Exodus 12; Matthew 15:1-28.  I will give thanks unto you, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will speak of all your marvelous works.

We open with Psalm 94:1 — "O LORD, God of vengeance, O God of vengeance, shine forth!" — as the cornerstone of our meditation on how God's justice and vengeance are understood differently in Scripture than they are in modern geopolitics. We ask: What does it mean to call God both Lord of Knowledge and Lord of Vengeance in an age of nuclear threat (e.g., Iran)? How does Scripture frame divine retribution vs. human reaction?

“Therefore I will give thanks to You, O Lord, among the Gentiles, and sing praises to Your name” (Ps 18:49). 

Psalm 13 is one of the most honest prayers in Scripture. David cries out in frustration, grief, and longing — asking God how long the silence will last.In this episode, we explore the power of lament and the surprising turn Psalm 13 takes from despair to determined trust. This conversation reminds us that faith doesn't ignore pain — it brings it to God.If you're walking through a season of waiting, discouragement, or unanswered prayers, this episode will help you see that you're not alone — and that trust can rise even before the situation changes.Season 4 is all about the Psalms — real prayers for real life.Scripture Focus: Psalms 13

Evening lessons: Psalms 7; Proverbs 3; Romans 16.  O Lord my God, in you have I put my trust; save me from all those who persecute me, and deliver me.

Morning lessons: Psalms 5, 6; Exodus 11; Matthew 14.  Give ear to my words, O Lord; consider my meditations.

Good things come to those who wait... so forgive us for the day of delay, but we are back with a discussion of Proverbial Monsters. This slim bestiary of creatures inspired by sayings and superstitions seemed like a natural follow-up to our dive into Urban Legends. It's not specifically a Changeling book, but most or all of the options in here can fit easily into a Lost game, so it's through that lens that we turn our critical eyes. Here's the thing, though—this book is no longer available for sale, and we can find no explanation for why. Consider this episode your armament for if you should eventually come across these pages in the wild, for a book in hand is worth two in the... cloud? Whatever the digital archiving equivalent of that saying would be. What's not lost to the currents of time is our standard list of get-in-touch-with-us links, like so!: Discord: https://discord.me/ctp Email: podcast@changelingthepodcast.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082973960699 Mastodon: https://dice.camp/@ChangelingPod Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/changelingthepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChangelingThePodcast your hosts Pooka G (any pronoun/they) taught a man to fish and he was devoured by a kraken. So... mixed results. Amelia Fetch (she/her) spoke of the Devil, but he merely sent a polite invitation for cream tea at a crossroads three days thence. Je n'ai jamais fait qu'une prière à Dieu, une très courte : "Ô Seigneur, rends mes ennemis ridicules". Et Dieu l'a exaucée. (I've only ever made one prayer to God, a very short one: "O Lord, make my enemies ridiculous." And God has granted it.) —Voltaire

Even the greatest prophet had a moment of uncertainty. But rather than condemn John, Jesus gave a response that may surprise some of us. Notes: Luke 7 John, in a moment of doubt, sent a message to Jesus,“Are You the One, or should we look for another?” Doubt is a sign that someone is thinking. A French proverb says, “He who knows nothing doubts nothing.” “Doubt is not the opposite of faith; it is an element of faith.” #1 Moses was ready to quit. Numbers 11:14–15"I am not able to bear all these people alone, because the burden is too heavy for me. If You treat me like this, please kill me now." #2 Elijah was ready to quit.(1 Kings 19:4) #3 Jesus rebuked His disciples for their lack of faith. #4 Paul the Apostle was deeply discouraged.(2 Corinthians 1:8) #5 David wrote half the Psalms while angry, confused, or feeling abandoned by God. #6 John the Baptist was discouraged and entertained doubts. Read Luke 7:18–28 John baptized Jesus in the Jordan River. John was in prison because of his bold preaching to King Herod. In John’s mind, Jesus the Messiah would organize a revolt. John was expecting political deliverance.Jesus was bringing spiritual deliverance. Sometimes we misunderstand God and His word. Jesus understood John’s questions and his doubt. Jesus answered John’s doubt with evidence and clarification, not condemnation. Galatians 5:15But if you are always biting and devouring one another,watch out! Beware of destroying one another. It is easier to critique than create.It is easier to tear down instead of build up. Jesus loves you and understands your questions, too. Psalm 10:1Why, O LORD, do you stand far away?Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? Psalm 10:16 (a)The LORD is king forever and ever. Jesus defended John publicly,when John criticized Jesus privately.(Luke 7:24) You have immeasurable value because you are God’s creation.(1 Peter 2:9) Ephesians 2:10For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago. God loves you so much that He sent His Son to die on the cross so you could have a relationship with Him. Doubt is a matter of the mind. Unbelief is a matter of the will. John was doubting, but he still believed. Jesus refocused John’s priorities. John’s doubts were answered by Scripture.(Luke 7:22) Stay the course when you don’t see the plan.(Luke 7:23) Luke 7:28I tell you, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John. Yet even the least person in the Kingdom of God is greater than he is! John was a part of the Old Testament economy.You are a New Testament believer. John was a friend of the Bridegroom.You are the bride of the Bridegroom. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we look in the mirror and ask ourselves the question of whether we love the glory that comes from man or the glory that comes from God more.Scriptures referenced:John 12:36-43Matthew 6:1-18Matthew 23:5-7Matthew 5:14-16Acts 4:23-31; 13:1-3Psalm 127:1Matthew 23:11-12John 15:5James 4:6Luke 14:7-11Matthew 28:18-20Luke 6:26John 15:18-20Psalm 115:1Mark 10:42-45Psalm 51:1-2, 7, 10Galatians 1:10**CORRECTIONS**When quoting John 12:38, I accidentally added the word "has" where it wasn't. It didn't affect the meaning, but here is the verse verbatim: "so that the word spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: 'Lord, who has believed what he heard from us, and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?'"When quoting Psalm 115:1 I accidentally omitted the word "your" once. It doesn't change the meaning, but here is the verse correctly: "Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness!"Feel free to email the podcast at ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com, and we will respond as soon as we are able!I WANT TO BE DISCIPLEDI am on staff with another ministry called Mentoring Men for the Master (M3). M3 is a discipleship ministry; so, if you are interested in being discipled and having someone come alongside you to invest in you and your walk with Jesus, or if you would like to do this in someone else's life, feel free to email us at info@mentoringmen.net. You can also check out M3's website by clicking "I want to be discipled". Also note that despite the ministry's name, M3 disciples both men and women; so, the offer is open to all!I WANT TO SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTERIf you would like to sign up to receive newsletter updates, simply click "I want to sign up for the newsletter" and fill out the form. Also, feel free to check out our most recent newsletter.I WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking "I want to support the podcast". I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!...

Even the greatest prophet had a moment of uncertainty. But rather than condemn John, Jesus gave a response that may surprise some of us. Notes: Luke 7 John, in a moment of doubt, sent a message to Jesus,“Are You the One, or should we look for another?” Doubt is a sign that someone is thinking. A French proverb says, “He who knows nothing doubts nothing.” “Doubt is not the opposite of faith; it is an element of faith.” #1 Moses was ready to quit. Numbers 11:14–15"I am not able to bear all these people alone, because the burden is too heavy for me. If You treat me like this, please kill me now." #2 Elijah was ready to quit.(1 Kings 19:4) #3 Jesus rebuked His disciples for their lack of faith. #4 Paul the Apostle was deeply discouraged.(2 Corinthians 1:8) #5 David wrote half the Psalms while angry, confused, or feeling abandoned by God. #6 John the Baptist was discouraged and entertained doubts. Read Luke 7:18–28 John baptized Jesus in the Jordan River. John was in prison because of his bold preaching to King Herod. In John’s mind, Jesus the Messiah would organize a revolt. John was expecting political deliverance.Jesus was bringing spiritual deliverance. Sometimes we misunderstand God and His word. Jesus understood John’s questions and his doubt. Jesus answered John’s doubt with evidence and clarification, not condemnation. Galatians 5:15But if you are always biting and devouring one another,watch out! Beware of destroying one another. It is easier to critique than create.It is easier to tear down instead of build up. Jesus loves you and understands your questions, too. Psalm 10:1Why, O LORD, do you stand far away?Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? Psalm 10:16 (a)The LORD is king forever and ever. Jesus defended John publicly,when John criticized Jesus privately.(Luke 7:24) You have immeasurable value because you are God’s creation.(1 Peter 2:9) Ephesians 2:10For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago. God loves you so much that He sent His Son to die on the cross so you could have a relationship with Him. Doubt is a matter of the mind. Unbelief is a matter of the will. John was doubting, but he still believed. Jesus refocused John’s priorities. John’s doubts were answered by Scripture.(Luke 7:22) Stay the course when you don’t see the plan.(Luke 7:23) Luke 7:28I tell you, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John. Yet even the least person in the Kingdom of God is greater than he is! John was a part of the Old Testament economy.You are a New Testament believer. John was a friend of the Bridegroom.You are the bride of the Bridegroom. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Day 2807 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2807 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 116:15-19 – Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2807 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2807 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. The Title for Today's Wisdom-Trek is: The Costly Departure – A Sacrifice of Thanksgiving Today, we are bringing our deeply personal journey through Psalm One Hundred Sixteen to a glorious, triumphant conclusion. We will be trekking through the final stanza of this profound song, covering verses fifteen through nineteen, in the New Living Translation. Before we take our next step, we must look back over our shoulder at the trail we just traveled. In our previous trek, covering the first fourteen verses of this psalm, we stood beside a man who had stared into the terrifying abyss of the underworld. We heard his raw, trembling testimony. He told us how the ropes of death had wrapped around his neck, and how the terrors of the grave had overtaken him. In his absolute helplessness, he cried out a simple prayer: "Please, Lord, save me!" And Yahweh, the Most High God, bent down from the heavens to listen. He severed the cords of death, dried the psalmist's tears, and stabilized his stumbling feet. In overwhelming gratitude, the psalmist lifted the "Cup of Salvation," promising to praise the Lord in the land of the living. We also remembered that this is part of the Egyptian Hallel, the collection of psalms sung during the Passover. Jesus Himself sang these very words in the Upper Room, just hours before He faced the ultimate terror of the cross. Now, as we enter the final five verses, the psalmist transitions from the private terror of his near-death experience, to the public courts of the temple. He begins with a stunning revelation about how God views the death of His people, and ends with a communal feast of thanksgiving. It is a transition from the darkness of the grave, to the bright, joyful center of cosmic geography: Jerusalem. Let us walk into the temple courts, and listen to the conclusion of this magnificent testimony. The first segment is: The Weight of the Faithful: A Costly Departure. Psalm One Hundred Sixteen: verse fifteen. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants. This single verse is one of the most famous, and frequently quoted, comforts in the entire Bible, especially during times of grief. But to truly understand its depth, we must peel back the layers of the original Hebrew language, and view it through the lens of the Ancient Israelite worldview. The word translated as "precious" is yaqar. In English, when we hear the word "precious," we often think of something sweet, sentimental, or cute. But that is not what yaqar means. In biblical Hebrew, yaqar means heavy, rare, costly, or of immense value. It is the word used to describe rare jewels, or the heavy, expensive stones used to lay the foundation of the temple. Therefore, the psalmist is not saying that God finds our death sweet or pleasant. Death is the enemy. Death, in the ancient mindset, was the ultimate expression of the chaotic realm of Sheol. Instead, the psalmist is making a profound statement about our value: "Heavy, costly, and of immense consequence in the sight of Yahweh, is the death of His faithful ones." God does not view the passing of His people casually. He does not treat us as expendable pawns on a cosmic chessboard. When the forces of chaos and disease try to drag a believer down into the grave, the Lord takes it personally. It costs Him something. He values His human imagers so highly, that their departure from this earth is an event of cosmic gravity. The term "faithful servants" is the Hebrew word chasidim, which is rooted in Hesed—God's unfailing, loyal, covenant love. The chasidim are the loyal ones, the ones bound to God by covenant. Because He is fiercely loyal to them, He does not surrender them to the grave without a fight. In the case of this psalmist, God looked at the high cost of his death, stepped into the fray, and said, "Not today." He severed the ropes of Sheol, because the life of His servant was simply too valuable to lose to the darkness. When Jesus sang this verse on the night of His betrayal, He was acknowledging the profound weight of what He was about to do. His death would be the ultimate, costly departure. Yet, because it was so precious in the sight of the Father, it would become the very mechanism that defeated death forever. The second segment is: The Joyful Captive: Freedom Through Submission. Psalm One Hundred Sixteen: verse sixteen. O Lord, I am your servant; yes, I am your servant, born into your household; you have freed me from my chains. Having reflected on how much God values his life, the psalmist responds with an absolute surrender of his identity. He repeats his title twice for emphasis: "O Lord, I am your servant; yes, I am your servant." The word for "servant" here is ebed, which can also be translated as slave or bondservant. But this is not a forced, oppressive slavery; this is a willing, joyful submission to a benevolent King. The psalmist adds a beautiful, intimate detail: "born into your household." Literally, the text says, "the son of your maidservant." In the ancient Near East, a slave who was purchased from a foreign land had a very different status than a slave who was born within the master's own house. A servant born into the household was practically considered family. They grew up under the master's roof, ate the master's food, and enjoyed the master's protection. By calling himself the son of a maidservant, the psalmist is claiming a deep, lifelong, family connection to Yahweh. He is saying, "Lord, I belong to You. I have always belonged to You. I am a child of Your estate." And here is the beautiful paradox of the biblical worldview: true freedom is found only in becoming a servant of the Most High God. Notice the next phrase: "you have freed me from my chains." Just a few verses earlier, the psalmist was wrapped in the ropes of death. Those were the chains of chaos, destruction, and fear. By submitting himself entirely to Yahweh as a servant, those chains of oppression were shattered. In the Divine Council worldview, humans will always serve a master. We will either be enslaved by the dark, rebellious principalities of this world—forces that seek to bind us in addiction, fear, and ultimately the grave—or we will bind ourselves to the Creator, whose yoke is easy and whose burden is light. The psalmist declares that because God broke the chains of death, he is now happily, permanently bound to the Lord. He is a free man, precisely because he is God's servant. The third segment is: The Public Feast: Testifying in the Sacred Courts. Psalm One Hundred Sixteen: verses seventeen through nineteen. I will offer you a sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people— in the courts of the house of the Lord, in the midst of Jerusalem. Praise the Lord! Now, the psalmist takes his private, internal gratitude, and makes it undeniably public. He transitions from the prayer closet, to the temple courts. He promises: "I will offer you a sacrifice of thanksgiving." This is a very specific reference to the Levitical law. In the Book of Leviticus, Chapter Seven, the Todah—or Thanksgiving Sacrifice—was a type of peace offering. When an Israelite was rescued from a life-threatening illness, a dangerous journey, or a deadly enemy, they were instructed to bring an animal sacrifice, along with unleavened bread, to the tabernacle. But this sacrifice was unique. It was not burned up entirely on the altar. The priest took a portion, but the vast majority of the meat and bread was given back to the worshiper. The worshiper was then required to host a massive, joyful feast, inviting their family, friends, and even the poor, to eat the meal with them on that very same day. Think about the profound psychology of this ritual. You could not eat an entire animal by yourself. You had to invite a crowd. And as you passed the meat and the bread, people would naturally ask, "What are we celebrating?" That was your moment to testify. That was the moment to say, "I was standing at the edge of the grave. The ropes of death had me. But I called on the name of the Lord, and He saved me!" This is exactly what the psalmist intends to do: "and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence...