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Over the past few weeks, we've explored the ways God speaks to His people. But, what do we do when God doesn't speak? When He doesn't answer a prayer? Listen as Pastor Amy looks at examples of God's silence in Scripture, both dismantling the falsehoods we believe about silence and teaching us how to engage with God in the midst of it.
When The Spirit Moves Series - Week 3. "Where we see dry bones, God sees what they can become." No matter how bleak things appear, God has the power to do the impossible. Pastor Amy continues the series "When the Spirit Moves," focusing on the symbolism of wind as a representation of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament.
As we continue learning how to tune ourselves to God's voice, we also grow in discerning what is true. When it comes to our decisions, beliefs, and purpose, we need to rely on Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and our community for discernment. Listen as Pastor Amy and Pastor Brent explore what Godly discernment looks like in everyday life.
Pastor Amy challenges listeners to re-evaluate their prayer lives, emphasizing that the nature of our prayers directly reflects our belief in God's power and willingness to act. Drawing from Acts chapter 4, she highlights how the early church, facing persecution, prayed not for safety, but for greater boldness to speak God's word. This radical approach to prayer led to powerful manifestations of the Holy Spirit and transformed lives.Discover how shifting from small, self-focused requests to audacious, faith-filled petitions can unlock divine intervention and bring about profound change in your life, your community, and the world.If you're new to 7 City Church, we'd love to get to know you and help you take your next step. You can find our digital connect card and discover ways to get connected at 7city.info.Join us in person on Sundays at 9:30 or 11:00 AM at 2900 W Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth, TX.Connect with us throughout the week on social media:Facebook | YouTube: 7 City ChurchInstagram | TikTok: @7citychurch
Pastor Amy challenges listeners to re-evaluate their prayer lives, emphasizing that the nature of our prayers directly reflects our belief in God's power and willingness to act. Drawing from Acts chapter 4, she highlights how the early church, facing persecution, prayed not for safety, but for greater boldness to speak God's word. This radical approach to prayer led to powerful manifestations of the Holy Spirit and transformed lives.Discover how shifting from small, self-focused requests to audacious, faith-filled petitions can unlock divine intervention and bring about profound change in your life, your community, and the world.If you're new to 7 City Church, we'd love to get to know you and help you take your next step. You can find our digital connect card and discover ways to get connected at 7city.info.Join us in person on Sundays at 9:30 or 11:00 AM at 2900 W Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth, TX.Connect with us throughout the week on social media:Facebook | YouTube: 7 City ChurchInstagram | TikTok: @7citychurch
Unlock your powerful prayer life with this 7-step prayer model based on the Tabernacle that will transform your prayer life! From simple thanksgiving to deep intercession for others. Learn how to pray with purpose, invite the Holy Spirit, hear God through His Word, and draw closer to God every day. Whether you're new to prayer or want to go deeper, this practical guide shows you how to pray Biblically and intentionally. This message is perfect for anyone searching how to have a deeper prayer life or structured prayer steps that work.
In the lineage of Jesus, we find yet another unexpected woman with a story of redemption. Bathsheba may be a victim of King David's sinful desires, but God still uses her to bring Salvation to the world. Listen as Pastor Brent and Pastor Amy dive into our final story in these sermon series.
This Christmas week Pastor Amy Visconti takes us into one of the most powerful and overlooked lines in the Christmas story Luke 2:19. Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Through a personal story about missing a once in a lifetime moment on camera Pastor Amy shows why the deepest memories are not captured by a screen but engraved by the Spirit. You will learn how God loves to call ordinary people into extraordinary kingdom work why being favored does not mean a hardship free life and how to shift your perspective so you do not miss the blessings God is already giving you. This message is a practical guide for slowing down reflecting meditating on Scripture and building a habit of pondering so you can walk through this season blessed not bitter.
How does Jesus view children? He welcomes them, teaches through them, and protects them.
This Reformation Sunday, Pastor Amy reminds us that faith isnt finished until its lived. The call to execute faith means acting on conviction, following through with courage, and living what we believe. Just as Martin Luther stepped out in bold obedience to Gods truth, we are called to embody faith in tangible ways to serve, speak, and love with purpose. Jesus didnt come to start a debate; Jesus came to carry out Gods mission of love. Disciples dont just believe the Gospel they do it. https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/46163/note-244774.html
Church isn't just about showing up, it's about showing up for each other. If you've ever felt disconnected, lonely in a crowd, or unsure if you truly belong at church, this message is for you. In week four of our We the Church series, we're diving into what it really means to be committed to community. The Bible calls the church a spiritual family — not a building or an event, but a group of people called to love, encourage, forgive, and live life together. So why does that feel so hard sometimes? We explore powerful scriptures like 1 John 3, Ephesians 2, and 1 Thessalonians 5, unpacking our identity as children of God, and our role as members of God's household. Whether you're wrestling with church hurt, feeling alone in your faith, or just wondering how to build real relationships in church — you're not alone.
This week, we launched our new series, WWJD?—not just to admire how Jesus lived, but to learn how to live like Him. We began by asking: What would Jesus do when it comes to grief? In John 11, Jesus loses a close friend—Lazarus. He doesn't ignore the pain or rush past it. Instead, He walks straight into the moment with patience, compassion, and truth. He weeps, He listens, He comforts. He reminds us that grief and faith can coexist. And then, He reveals our true hope: “I am the resurrection and the life.” Like Jesus, we are invited to grieve honestly, wait patiently, cling to hope, and stay close to the Father. He meets us in our sorrow—not from a distance, but right in the middle of it. Missed Sunday? Catch up on this week's message from our WWJD? series — all about finding hope and next steps when grieving loss. Read the sermon notes here: Daily Devotional Grief Resources
This week, Pastor Amy invites us to rediscover the gift of holy curiosity. Far from being weakness, curiosity was central to Jesus way of engaging people asking questions, listening deeply, and making space for transformation. From Nicodemus late-night questions to the Samaritan woman at the well and Thomas honest doubts, curiosity opened doors for faith, healing, and trust. What would it look like for us to live with the same posture to lead with openness, wonder, and a willingness to be changed by Gods love? https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/46163/note-244761.html
Why church is important! Is it just tradition, or is there something deeper we're missing? In this message, we explore why church still matters in a world full of options, distractions, and personal preferences. Whether you're a lifelong Christian, just coming back to church, or still figuring out what you believe, this message is for you. Discover why being planted in a local church is more than just “going to church on Sundays”, it's about spiritual growth, deep relationships, and a life that can weather any storm. This isn't just about attending a building. It's about becoming part of something bigger than yourself — a spiritual family where you can grow, serve, and thrive. Key Scripture: Psalm 92:12-14 “The righteous will flourish… they are planted in the house of the Lord.” If you've ever thought: “I love Jesus, but I don't need church.” “I'll go when I feel like it.” “I'm just not connecting.” …then this talk will challenge your thinking and invite you to something deeper. Learn: Why church is essential to spiritual growth What the Bible actually says about church Why drifting from church leaves us stuck, shallow, and spiritually dry How God plants us in church for a purpose You're not meant to live potted, you're called to be planted. Let God place you where your faith can flourish.
Summer At The Movies: Wicked | Pastor Amy Smith by City of Life Church
Have you ever caught yourself talking about someone instead of talking to them? This message, rooted in James 3 and a scene from Grease, confronts the subtle but serious sin of gossip. Our words hold power—they can either heal or harm. We're called to speak life, not spread rumors. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can develop self-control, repent where needed, and choose words that build others up and point them to Jesus.
Pastor Amy Zeittlow, Assistant to the Bishop Pastor Candice Wassell Faith Lutheran Church O'Fallon, IL check out our website: https://www.faithofallon.org/ If you would like to support the ministry of Faith Lutheran Church: https://www.faithofallon.org/
Jesus First Jesus Always: Mother's Day | Pastor Amy Smith by City of Life Church
Rachel and Leah's story in Genesis 29–30 shows how envy can turn sisters into rivals. One longed for love, the other for children—each believing they needed what the other had to feel valuable. Envy convinces us we're lacking and makes it hard to celebrate others. But God offers a better way. Envy says, “I want what you have,” but contentment says, “I trust what God has given.” Through repentance and gratitude, God uproots envy from our hearts. Like Leah, when we say, “This time I will praise the Lord,” our hearts shift. The Gospel reminds us—our worth is secure in Christ.
On Confirmation Sunday, Pastor Amy weaves in insights from our 8th graders to share the Gospel and inspire us to follow Jesus in our daily lives.
In Mark 14:1–11, we see a woman pour out costly perfume on Jesus, sparking outrage from others—but Jesus calls it beautiful. Her motive was pure love, while Judas's was selfish gain. As Passover approached, Jesus was preparing to be the true Passover Lamb, giving His life to save us. The woman's worship was a response to His worth, not a performance. This sermon challenges believers to evaluate their own motives in following Jesus. Is it love? Gratitude? Or something else? In response, we are invited to repent and return to the heart of worship—where it's all about Jesus.
Small Group Guide: Scandalous Love Opening Prayer Bible: John 12:1-8 Key Takeaways: The body is not a scandal but a gift through which we can draw near to God Lavish compassion and care are appropriate responses in times of great sorrow We must be wary of the "scandal of distraction" that seeks to justify self-serving priorities We are called to act with urgency and awareness in responding to God's call Discussion Questions: Pastor Amy mentions the "scandal of having a body." How does our culture view bodies, especially women's bodies? How does this contrast with the idea that "the body is a gift"? What does it mean to you that bodies are the way Mary was able to draw near to God? Mary's act of anointing Jesus was seen as lavish and wasteful by some. Can you think of a time when you or someone you know showed "extravagant love"? How was it received? Pastor Amy talks about the "scandal of distraction." In what ways do we sometimes use criticism of others to deflect attention from our own shortcomings? How do you feel about the concept of "both/and" faith versus "either/or" faith? Can you think of examples in your own life where you've struggled with this? Pastor Amy mentions how easy it is to twist scripture to justify our own agendas. How can we guard against this tendency in our own lives and in our faith communities? How can we cultivate a sense of urgency in our faith, like Mary demonstrated, without becoming anxious or overwhelmed? Practical Applications: Lavish Love: Identify someone in your life who might be going through a difficult time. Plan an "extravagant" act of kindness for them, no matter how small it might seem. Distraction Awareness: Pay attention to moments when you're tempted to criticize others. Instead of acting on that impulse, take a moment to reflect on your own motivations and actions. Present Moment Awareness: Each day this week, take a few minutes to be fully present and ask God, "What do you want me to pay attention to right now?" Closing Prayer: Loving God, thank you for the example of Mary's extravagant love. Help us to be fully present in our bodies, lavish in our compassion, aware of our distractions, and open to the paradoxes of faith. Guide us to pour out your love in both big and small ways this week. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Small Group Guide: Suffering and Grace Opening Prayer Bible: Luke 13:1-9 Key Takeaways: Suffering and tragedy are not punishments from God or indicators of a lack of faith. The Church is called to be a "gardener," nurturing those who are marginalized. A theology of the cross teaches us that God is present in suffering and calls us to address systemic issues that contribute to tragedy and injustice. Discussion Questions: Pastor Amy mentions Archbishop Oscar Romero and his advocacy for the poor. Can you think of modern-day examples of religious leaders or organizations standing up for marginalized groups? How does this reflect Jesus' teachings? Jesus clearly states that tragedies are not punishments from God. How does this perspective challenge or affirm your own understanding of suffering? How might this change the way we respond to others who are going through difficult times? In what ways do we sometimes fall into the trap of blaming victims for their misfortunes, and how can we cultivate a more compassionate and nuanced perspective? Reflect on the parable of the fig tree. How does interpreting the Church as the gardener, rather than Jesus, change the meaning of the story? What responsibilities does this interpretation place on us as members of the Church? Pastor Amy suggests that we should examine the systems that allow or contribute to suffering. Can you think of examples where this approach might lead to positive change? In what ways does a 'theology of the cross' change our understanding of where God is present and active in the world? How might this impact our mission and outreach as a church? Pastor Amy ends by saying that God is not "keeping score" of our sins. How might this understanding of God's grace impact how we live our lives and treat others? Practical Applications: This week, identify a "fig tree" in your community - a person or group that might be overlooked or struggling. Brainstorm ways you could offer support or care. Reflect on times when you've experienced suffering. How did your faith community respond? Based on today's discussion, how might you support others differently in the future? Research a systemic issue in your community that contributes to suffering (e.g., homelessness, food insecurity). Identify one concrete action you can take to address this issue. Want to hone your actual gardening skills as a way to remember our call to be good gardeners in other ways?Contact the team that works on our community garden and offer to help! Closing Prayer: God of mercy, you meet us with love and compassion in the shadows of death, working to bring us new life. As we reflect on Jesus suffering on the cross, help us to see that we, too, are called to live with compassion, extending grace to those who hurt, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
In this week's episode of The Generation Podcast, Pastor Ryan is joined by a very special guest—his wife, Pastor Amy! Together, they discuss the importance of prioritizing your marriage above everything else, including kids, and how a strong, God-centered relationship sets the foundation for a thriving family.But that's not all! Pastor Ryan and Pastor Amy also tackle your most-asked questions from Instagram, diving into topics like disciplining children with love, keeping date nights a priority, handling in-laws with grace, and raising kids in a Christ-centered home.Don't miss this powerful and practical conversation filled with wisdom, encouragement, and a few fun surprises along the way!
In this week's episode of The Generation Podcast, Pastor Ryan is joined by a very special guest—his wife, Pastor Amy! Together, they take a trip down memory lane, sharing the story of how they first met, the early days of their relationship, and the realities of a Godly marriage.But that's not all! Pastor Ryan and Pastor Amy also answer your most asked questions from Instagram, diving into topics like faith, relationships, and building a Christ-centered marriage.Don't miss this heartfelt and insightful conversation packed with wisdom, encouragement, and a few fun surprises along the way!
From the beginning of time, humans have confused humanity's role with God's role. We long to be in control of every aspect of our lives — our money, our families, our health, and our futures. In this message, Pastor Amy gives permission for you to be a child. More knowledge and control won't quiet your soul, but trust in God will.
My Roman Empire Part 1 | Pastor Amy Smith by City of Life Church
When we go through storms in life where do we take our fear? Fear is a natural emotion that should cause us to go to God. But often we allow fear to disrupt the trust we have or don't have in God. We can end up taking our fears to unhealthy places. The disciples that night were afraid of the storm but even more terrified when Jesus calmed the storm. Why was this so scary for them? Well, that night a different storm inside them needed to be confronted. It was the storm of their sinful hearts and only Jesus, who was fully man (asleep on the boat) and fully God (having divine control over nature) could defeat this ultimate storm of sin. As we remember his sacrifice we can be sure that God cares about us so much that He sent His Son so no one will perish.
For our January ALLIN, Pastor Amy explored the moments of consecration from Joshua 4-5 as the Israelites crossed over into the Promised Land. There is a Promised Land rest available for us as believers and leaders that aligns our position, provision, pace and plans to heaven's.
Celebrate Thanksgiving by reflecting on God's goodness in the past and His provision for the future. Both Pastor Brent and Pastor Amy help us reflect on how God is working in our lives and community in this special service.
As followers of Christ, we become the dwelling place of God through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Pastor Amy concludes our series by exploring how the Holy Spirit both transforms and empowers us to live lives fully devoted to Jesus.
As parents, we must remember that our children belong to God. We must be intentional about teaching our children and we need wisdom! In this message, we look at the book of Exodus where Moses' parents had to make a big decision and trust God. We'll discover how to apply this truth in our own homes. Whether you are a parent or not, this message will encourage and strengthen your faith in God to trust Him always!