Podcasts about philippians

Money touches almost every corner of our lives—and often our fears. When bills rise, when income feels uncertain, and when the future feels unclear, it's easy to slip into anxiety and assume everything depends on us. Scripture offers a better story: one where God sees, God knows, and God provides.Few things test our faith like money. Emergencies arise, markets fall, expenses rise, and the question arises: Will I have enough? Most of us respond by working harder and planning more. Diligence is wise, but beneath the effort, many carry a quiet fear that everything ultimately rests on our shoulders. Jesus invites us into something deeper—an economy rooted not in scarcity but in the character of God.In Matthew 6:26, Jesus directs our attention to the birds of the air. They do not stockpile or strategize, yet “your heavenly Father feeds them.” He doesn't say their Father, but your Father. The One who sustains creation also sustains His people. Jesus isn't discouraging work—He's dismantling worry. Behind every paycheck, opportunity, and act of stewardship stands a God who provides.This truth echoes throughout Scripture. In Genesis 22, Abraham stands on a mountain, knife raised in agonizing obedience. At the final moment, God provides a ram caught in a thicket. Abraham names the place The Lord will provide—not as a memory but as a promise.In 1 Kings 17, a widow with a handful of flour and a few drops of oil prepares for her last meal. God asks her to trust Him with what little she has, and she does. Day after day, her jar and jug never run empty—not overflowing, but enough. Provision came not in abundance but in sufficiency, reminding her she was seen.Even Peter faces lack. When confronted about the temple tax, Jesus sends him to cast a line, and the first fish carries a coin in its mouth—exactly what is needed. Scripture's pattern is unmistakable: God provides precisely, personally, and on time.Paul reaffirms this in Philippians 4:19—“My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” He writes not to wealthy believers but to a generous church with scarce resources, reminding them that supply flows from God's glory, not their accounts.God gives what we need, not always what we want, and not always when we expect it—but His provision is wise and rooted in love. Jesus ultimately declares, “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35). He does not merely give provision—He gives Himself. The deepest peace is not the absence of uncertainty, but the presence of a faithful Father.Where do you need to trust God's provision today? Bring your needs, fears, and questions before Him. Ask for wisdom, peace, and strength—and stay open to the unexpected ways He may provide through people, opportunities, or renewed perspective.————————————————————————————This theme—God is our provider—is explored in greater depth in our new 21-day devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure, releasing next month. Each day focuses on a foundational truth of biblical stewardship, showing how God's character shapes our view of money, our decisions, and our trust in Him—not as a distant observer, but as a faithful Father. It's designed to help believers move from fear to freedom, from anxiety to peace, and from self-sufficiency to joyful dependence on Christ.If you want to receive the devotional as soon as it's released, you can become a FaithFi Partner for $35 a month or $400 a year, and we'll send it to you as our way of saying thank you. Learn more at FaithFi.com/Partner. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 58 and eligible for a three-year special catch-up contribution in my 457 plan, which would allow me to double my contributions. Should I split those contributions between my 457 and a Roth since I don't have much in the Roth, or is it better to put everything in one? What factors should I consider?My wife and I received a legal settlement of just over $50,000 and would like to tithe. We normally give 10% to our church, but this is above our regular giving. How should we think about giving to our local church versus other ministries? Is it appropriate to allocate part of the tithe to a ministry we're developing that will incur significant expenses?We have two daughters in their 30s who don't really have long-term financial plans. We'd like to help by funding their Roth IRAs with $2,000 or $3,000, partly to encourage saving. Can we open the accounts ourselves, or should we transfer the funds so they can do it? Would that gift count as taxable income for them? Any recommendations?I've heard that if you're on Social Security, you can't have much in savings—something like $2,000 for singles and $3,000 for couples—or you could lose benefits. Is that true?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment by Ron Blue with Michael BlueWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today’s Bible Verse – Philippians 1:12-13 (NIV) "Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ." Ever wondered if your struggles have purpose? In Philippians 1:12–13, the Apostle Paul encourages believers by revealing how his imprisonment—what looked like a setback—was actually part of God’s plan to advance the gospel. This verse reminds us that even in pain or limitation, God is working through us for His glory. Want an ad-free Bible study experience?Become a BibleStudyTools.com PLUS Member: Subscribe here Meet Today’s Host: Chaka Heinze Listen to more episodes with Chaka at Your Daily Bible Verse on LifeAudio Chaka Heinze is a Christian writer, speaker, and passionate Bible teacher. She serves on the Prayer and Healing Ministry at her local church and mentors young women in their walk with Christ. After the heartbreaking loss of her 11-year-old son, Landen, Chaka encountered the life-changing depth of God’s love and compassion—a message she now shares with others navigating grief, healing, and spiritual growth. She and her husband of 26 years are raising five children, from college-age to preschoolers. A trained attorney, Chaka also specializes in the fine art of peacekeeping (especially between siblings).

Welcome to Day 2771 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday –The Prayers of Christ and the Destiny of the Faithful.   Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2771 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2771 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. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found that his lessons are short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who desire to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons can be found on his website   theologyinfive.com.   Today's lesson is titled The Prayers of Christ and the Destiny of the Faithful.   When Jesus prays to the Father in the Gospels, He does so as the Incarnate Son, fully God and fully man. His prayers are not signs of weakness or inequality, but expressions of true humanity. They reflect His relationship with the Father within the limitations of flesh and blood, taken on voluntarily to accomplish the redemption of mankind. Yet Christ's prayers do more than model dependence. They reveal His mission, not merely to forgive sin, but to lead those united to Him into eternal fellowship with Yahweh, where they will be glorified through their relationship with Him. In His High Priestly Prayer in John seventeen, Jesus says: “I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one” (John seventeen verse twenty-two). This is not poetic exaggeration. It is a clear expression of Christ's intent to raise His followers into the glory that He shares with the Father, restoring and transforming them in the process. The first segment is: Jesus's Prayers as Revelation of His Mission. In John seventeen verses one and two, Jesus prays: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him.” Christ's authority includes granting eternal life, an existence defined not merely by duration, but by nature: incorruptibility, righteousness, and unending communion with God. Later in the same prayer, He says: “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory…” (John seventeen verse twenty-four) Though Christ is fully divine, He chose to humble Himself. As Paul writes in Philippians two verses six through eight, though existing in the form of God, He did not cling to His divine status but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant. Hebrews two says He was made for a little while lower than the angels, not because He lost divinity, but because He embraced full humanity. His prayers reflect this self-imposed humility and His desire to elevate those He redeems. The second segment is: The Resurrection Body and the Nature of Glorified Transformation. Scripture consistently affirms the transformation of the faithful, not merely morally, but ontologically. Psalm eight states that man was made “a little lower than the heavenly beings,” but destined to be crowned with glory and honor. Hebrews two applies this to Christ and, by extension, to all who belong to Him. First Corinthians fifteen declares that believers will be raised with glorified, incorruptible bodies. Paul...

What if the reason your podcast isn't converting has nothing to do with consistency, downloads, or your CTA… and everything to do with belief?In today's episode, I'm interviewing my client, Patricia Ortega, host of the Uncommon Career Podcast, and sharing a behind-the-scenes look at what changed when her podcast stopped feeling heavy, awkward, and salesy — and started generating consistent sales calls.Patricia didn't need more tactics. She didn't need another social media strategy or a new funnel. What she needed was clarity — in her messaging, her structure, and the belief journey she was guiding her listeners through.In this conversation, you'll hear:Why “just get on the mic and talk” is not a strategyHow structure unlocks creativity instead of stifling itThe mindset shift that made selling feel like service instead of sleazeWhy a podcast can become your primary lead generator when social media feels soul-suckingWhat changes when your episodes stop being fluffy and start being intentionalYou'll also hear Patricia share what she can't unsee now that she understands how belief-based podcasting works — and why her show finally feels fun, aligned, and effective again.If you've ever thought:“I don't want to sound salesy”“My podcast is good, but it's not converting”“I don't want to depend on social media to get clients”…this episode will hit home.Listen not just for what's said, but for how belief, structure, and authority are modeled throughout the conversation. Patricia is a pro guest!Patricia's LI

In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef draws out four ways to maintain joy from Paul's letter to the Philippian church.   If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon It's Contagious . . . Pass It On!, Part 7: LISTEN NOW

Today is day 8 and we are continuing the section on Salvation with question 8. 8. Who is Jesus Christ? Jesus is the eternal Son of God, the Savior of the world. Fully divine, he took on our human nature, died on the Cross for our sins, rose from the dead, ascended into heaven, and now rules as Lord and King over all creation. (Numbers 21:4–9; Psalm 110; John 3:13–15; Philippians 2:5–11; Colossians 1:15–20) Our prayer today is the Collect from the Baptism of Our Lord on the First Sunday of Epiphany found on page 601 of the Book of Common Prayer (2019). If you would like to buy or download To Be a Christian, head to anglicanchurch.net/catechism. Produced by Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, MS. Original music from Matthew Clark. Daily collects and Psalms are taken from Book of Common Prayer (2019), created by the Anglican Church in North America and published by the Anglican Liturgical Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Catechism readings are taken from To Be a Christian - An Anglican Catechism Approved Edition, copyright © 2020 by The Anglican Church in North America by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Sonic the Hedgehog x Philippians 3:13-14 x Proverbs 4:19 x Isaiah 57:14Your daily crossover of faith and fandom! Experience daily Biblical encouragement from nerdy Christian podcasters, bloggers, and content creators. Join the Nerd of Godcast community at www.NOGSquad.com

In the American West in the late-1800s, the search for dinosaur bones created the Bone Wars in which two paleontologists battled one another in their pursuit of making the most historic find. One writer noted how the two “used underhanded methods to try to outdo the other in the field, resorting to bribery, theft, and the destruction of bones.” He noted how, in trying to ruin each other’s work, both destroyed their own reputations as well. Conflict and competition are inevitable in our broken world. How we choose to engage those conflicts reveals what’s in our hearts. Paul learned of conflict between two women in the church at Philippi and wrote, “I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.” He asked a fellow believer to “help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel” (Philippians 4:2–3). When we find ourselves at odds with fellow believers in Jesus, we need the Spirit’s help. As we submit to His work in our hearts, He’ll help us demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). We’ll experience healing and peace—if not for our own reputations, for the reputation of Christ and the gospel.

“For me to live is Christ.” — Philippians 1:21 The believer did not always live to Christ. He began to do so when God the Holy Spirit convinced him of sin, and when by grace he was brought to see the dying Saviour making a propitiation for his guilt. From the moment of the new […]

In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef digs into Philippians to show how we grow spiritually.   If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon It's Contagious . . . Pass It On!, Part 5: LISTEN NOW

A new year invites reflection and realignment. In this talk from Philippians 3, Jacob Harkey helps us examine what really matters and points us toward the only true source of lasting transformation. —With Passion City Online you can join us live every Sunday at 9:30a and 11:30a! Join us at https://passioncitychurch.com/dc—Give towards what God is doing through Passion City Church: https://passioncitychurch.com/dc/give—Subscribe to our Youtube channel to see more messages https://www.youtube.com/passioncitychurchdc—Follow along with Passion City Church DC: https://www.instagram.com/passioncitydc—Follow along with Pastor Ben Stuart: https://www.instagram.com/ben_stuart_—Passion City Church is a Jesus church with locations in Atlanta and Washington D.C. For more info on Passion, visit https://passioncitychurch.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What was an apostle? Do apostles still exist? Why does the ascension of Jesus matter? In this episode, Emma Dotter unpacks the definition, role, and qualifications of an apostle and why Judas needed to be replaced. Then, Watermark's Resident Theologian, Garrett Wikle, joins to explain the doctrine of the ascension, how it shapes our understanding of the rest of Scripture, and why it's significant forfollowers of Jesus today.   ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED:  Ephesians 2:20; Acts 2:43; 1 Corinthians 9:1; Luke 24:50-53, 49; Matthew 26; 28; Daniel 7; 1 Corinthians 15:24-25; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Ephesians 1:20; 2:6; 4:8-11; Philippians 2:5-11; Colossians 3:1-4; Hebrews; 1 Peter 3:21-22; Revelation 1; 4-5  RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY:  Acts of the Risen Lord: https://a.co/d/bUChMSg  The Bible Project: https://bibleproject.com/videos/acts-1-12/ GotQuestions: https://www.gotquestions.org/apostleship.html   RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  - S4:263 – Introduction to the book of Acts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000735019898  - S1:190 – How do I see the Spirit working in my life? https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000580392361   WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY?  Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together.  Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://www.jointhejourney.com  Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://www.jointhejourney.com/jr/7957-what-is-real Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898   Contact the Join The Journey Team: JoinTheJourney@watermark.org  

Pastor James Powell from The House Vegas reminds us of Paul's instruction in Philippians 3:13. It comes from a place of lived experience, not theory. Writing from prison, Paul reflects on a life marked by both great success and deep failure. Rather than allowing either to define him, he makes a conscious decision to forget what is behind him so he can faithfully pursue what God has ahead. Selective amnesia is the discipline of releasing what no longer has authority so we can walk fully in God's purpose.

**How to Pray for Financial Breakthrough (Without Begging or Being Greedy)** Struggling financially and don't know how to pray about it? Most believers approach God wrong when they need a financial breakthrough. They beg. They plead. They feel guilty for even asking. In this episode, I'm showing you the biblical way to pray for financial breakthrough that actually works. No whining. No manipulation. No prosperity gospel gimmicks. Here's what you'll learn: → The one thing to ask God for that unlocks everything else (James 1:5) → Why God wants to give you wealth and what He expects in return (Deuteronomy 8:17-18) → What to seek FIRST so everything else gets added to you (Matthew 6:33) → How your closeness to God directly impacts your financial fruitfulness (John 15:5-15) → The promptings you've been ignoring that might be your breakthrough → Why your breakthrough probably isn't a miracle... it's instructions you need to follow If you've been praying for a financial breakthrough and nothing's changing, this episode will shift your whole approach. Your breakthrough comes from your life union with Him as your source. Not from begging harder. **Scriptures Referenced:** James 1:5-8 | Deuteronomy 8:17-18 | Matthew 6:24-33 | John 15:5-15 | James 4:8 | Philippians 4:17 | 1 Corinthians 15:57-58 **Resources:** → Join The Increase Academy: https://www.skool.com/increaseacademy  

Philippians 2:1-4: We've been cast in the drama of the gospel. So, think like a cast-member, and let all your living be Jesus-shaped.

What if your biggest breakthrough starts where you've been saying “can't”? We celebrate episode 200 with Scottie Pennington, a COO who scaled operations across eight sites while proving that lean, faith, and relentless discipline can transform people and performance. From foundries and scrapyards to maintenance shops that used to be locked down, Scottie shows how 5S and clear communication can shift culture fast—especially when you win over the quiet influencer everyone trusts.We dig into the shift from doing to developing, and how to avoid becoming the leadership lid as your scope expands. Scottie explains why multiplication beats control, how he built a bench of directors leading plant managers, and why intentionality and gemba rigor still matter when your calendar explodes. His lens is practical and people-first: build leaders who build leaders, and watch results follow. Along the way, he shares the foundations that still guide him—Maxwell's laws, The Goal, 360 Leader—and how those principles anchor daily behavior.• COO journey across multiple business lines and sites• Lean and 5S implemented in foundries and maintenance• Winning buy-in through communication and influencers• Avoiding the leadership lid by growing leaders• Intentionality, discipline, and gemba rigor• Fitness as process: Spartan races, from if to when• Family priorities, protected time, and boundaries• Faith, integrity, trust, and using your gifts• Practical advice: remove the can't box and add yetThen we go personal. Scottie quit alcohol, embraced Spartan races, and replaced motivation with discipline. He describes the “if to when” mindset, dropping 40 pounds, and crossing a Beast finish line wearing Philippians 4:13, a moment powered by faith and family. With six grandkids and a spouse who protects the schedule, he talks about saying no, honoring boundaries, and living integrity when no one is watching. If you've ever wondered how to integrate purpose, performance, and personal health without losing your soul, this conversation gives you a map—and a push.Ready to grow leaders who multiply leaders, implement 5S where it's hardest, and trade “can't” for “yet”? Hit play, subscribe for more uncommon leadership stories, and leave a review to help others find the show. Then tell us: what habit will you turn from if to when today?Connect with Scottie Pennington:➡️ LinkedIn (primary): https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottie-pennington-mba-a4b3b129/overlay/contact-info/Thanks for listening in to the Uncommon Leader Podcast. Please take just a minute to share this podcast with that someone you know that you thought of when you heard this episode. One of the most valuable things you can do is to rate the podcast and leave a review. You can do that on Apple podcasts, or rate the podcast on Spotify or any other platform you listen. Did you know that many of the things that I discuss on the Uncommon Leader Podcast are subjects that I coach other leaders and organizations ? If you would be interested in having me discuss 1:1 or group coaching with you, or know someone who is looking to move from Underperforming to Uncommon in their business or life, I would love to chat with you. Click this link to set up a FREE CALL to discuss how coaching might benefit you and your team) Until next time, Go and Grow Champions!!Connect with me

Mission Bible Church is a community of Christ followers committed to being real with God, real with each other, and real in the world.missionbible.church

When Abram left Haran, it was with a multitude of people and many goods. These had increased greatly during his sojourn in Egypt. The same things were true for his nephew, Lot, and contributed to the problem told us in the end of chapter 13. Nonetheless Abram had learnt a great lesson in trust; and as an acknowledgment of that we are told in verse 4, "he made an altar and called on the name of Yahweh" (a name with which the faithful were familiar - see Genesis 4verses25-26). The location of this altar was between Bethel (the house of God) and Ai (ruin). His choices would determine whether his life would be ruined, or whether he would dwell with God - this is likewise true for each one of us. The troublesome Canaanites and Perizzites then dominated the land. The multitude of cattle made finding pasture difficult and the large number of people meant arguments were very common. A dispute caused Abram to suggest that they go their separate ways. Abram graciously allowed Lot the choice; and Lot chose the choicest pastures. Lot's choice was influenced by "the lust of his eyes". Abram was contented with trusting in the LORD to provide. The record uses the same words from God to Abram as is used of Lot's viewpoint. What God promised Abram was real estate - the earth (Romans 4verses13) - not a reward in heaven. Jesus taught the same in the Lord's Prayer, "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as in heaven" Matthew 6verses10. And as proof of what God had promised Abram; Abram was asked to walk on what he was to receive (see also Genesis 15verses18-21). Genesis 14 is an account of Abraham's rescue of his nephew Lot, who was takencaptive when a northern confederacy headed by Chedorlaomer - whose name signifies "a bundle of sheaves" - (the famous historical Hammurabi). The account is a literal event, but also symbolic of the nearing conflict of Armageddon, WW 3. Abram was "in fellowship " - confederate with two Amorites. The victor, Abram was offered rich rewards, which he spurned. The chapter's close sees the King-Priest of Jerusalem Melchizedek offering fellowship through bread and wine with God Almighty (see Hebrews chapters 5, 6 and 7; where the extended parable about the Lord Jesus Christ is explained).In Psalm 17 David seeks vindication from his Omnipotent Creator in whom David has sought and found protection in distress and constant care. David calls on Yahweh to rise and judge his enemies. But the greatest message from the Psalm is found in David's heartfelt hope, "As for me, I shall behold your face in righteousness; when I awake, I shall be satisfied with Thy likeness" ESV. The resurrection will bring the realisation of this hope (Philippians 3verses20-21; Colossians 3verses1-5.1 John 3verses1- 3).

Hey friends — welcome to 2026! I’m so glad you’re here, and I’m really excited about what God has for us as we step into a brand-new year together. This month, we’re starting a new series called One Word 2026, and it’s meant to be a gentle but intentional way to reflect, respond, and reconnect with God as we begin the year. In this episode, I’m walking you through why I love taking the whole month of January to pause and listen — rather than rushing into resolutions or putting pressure on yourself to “get it all together” by January 1. We’re going to start with Philippians 1:3–11, where Paul reminds us that we can have real confidence because God is still working in us, and He’s not finished. Then I’m going to share six words I’ve been praying over for our community — six spiritual intentions that I believe reflect the kind of growth God may be inviting us into this year. You don’t have to choose one right away, and you definitely don’t have to force it — but I hope that one of these words will resonate in your spirit and give you a steady anchor for 2026. What We Cover: 1. Confidence is available to you — because God is the one doing the work One of the biggest themes in Philippians 1 is this: God finishes what He starts. So you don’t have to rely on your own strength to grow this year — you can rely on His. 2. You don’t grow to earn God’s love — you grow because you already have it This is so important: we’re saved by grace, and spiritual growth is our response to that grace. We’re not proving anything. We’re simply saying, “God, I want more of You.” 3. January can be a month of spiritual discernment, not pressure I want you to feel free to take your time. The goal isn’t to pick a word immediately — it’s to listen and let God guide you. 4. One Word is a simple practice that helps you pay attention to God all year long A “word for the year” isn’t magic, but it can be really powerful. It helps you notice what God is doing, focus your prayers, and stay spiritually anchored as life gets busy. Resources Mentioned: Free One Word 2026 Companion Guide If you want to walk through this with me in a more intentional way, I put together a free companion guide you can download here: https://nicoleunice.kit.com/newyear Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

279. What if this ONE nutritional upgrade changes everything: An Interview with Sue Becker   Proverbs 14:12 NIV "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death."   *Transcription Below*   Sue Becker is a gifted speaker and teacher, with a passion to share principles of healthy living in an encouraging way.  She is the co-owner of The Bread Beckers and founder of the ministry, Real Bread Outreach, all dedicated to promoting whole grain nutrition. Sue has a degree in Food Science from UGA and is the author of The Essential Home-Ground Flour Book. Sue is a veteran home-schooling mom with 9 children and 15 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild so far. She and her husband Brad, live in Canton, GA. Through her teaching, countless families have found improved health.   Sue's Instagram: @suebreadbeckers Sue's Website Sue's Podcast   Questions and Topics We Cover: Will you tell us about your professional background and share what led to a life-changing discovery?  In addition to helping us feel better, how can this swap also affect our weight? We are told gluten is the enemy, but you teach how wheat can actually be the cure, not the cause. . . Will you elaborate why even people who are sensitive to gluten can still enjoy this bread and experience greater health benefits because of it?   Related Episodes from The Savvy Sauce: 14 Simple Changes for Healthier Living with Leslie Sexton and Vasu Thorpe 26 Practical Tips to Eating Dinner Together as a Family with Blogger and Cookbook Co-Author, Rachel Tiemeyer 33 Pursuing Health with Functional Medicine Specialist, Dr. Jill Carnahan 129 Healthy Living with Dr. Tonya Khouri 205 Power of Movement with Alisa Keeton (Revelation Wellness) 212 School Series: Benefits of Homeschooling with Jodi Mockabee 256 Gut Health, Allergies, Inflammation and Proactive Solutions with Emily Macleod-Wolfe 261 Edible Theology with Kendall Vanderslice 270 Female Sex Hormones, Periods, and Perimenopause with Emily Macleod-Wolfe 275 Raising Healthy Kids: Free Tips with Emily Johnson   Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”   *Transcription*   Music: (0:00 – 0:09)   Laura Dugger: (0:11 - 1:29) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here.   Have you heard about this one-of-a-kind experience, the Radiant Faith and Wellness event?   It's going to take place January 30th and 31st at the Cannery in Eureka. I hope you learn more or purchase your tickets on this website or check them out on Instagram at @radiantwellnessevent and make sure you stay tuned to find out what the code is so that you can purchase your discounted tickets.   Happy New Year everyone! I am so excited to get to kick off the year with one of the best episodes I can ever remember.   You are in for a treat today with my guest Sue Becker. She is going to enlighten us to the one achievable, easy-to-implement nutritional change that could change everything. Here's our chat.   Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, Sue.   Sue Becker: (1:30 - 1:39) Thank you so much for having me. It is a real honor to be able to share my story, share my message with others that can listen and hear.   Laura Dugger: (1:40 - 1:56) Well, it may be one of the times I've most anticipated this conversation, but I'd love to just start by going back. Will you tell us about your professional background and share what led to a life-changing discovery?   Sue Becker: (1:56 - 14:21) Yes, yes. Well, it's a little bit of a long story, but I'll keep it as brief as possible. So, I always say, many years ago, headed off to the University of Georgia as a pre-med student because I loved studying everything about the human body and I wanted to help people and save the world, you know, all the grandiose ideas.   But my big passion was physiology and biochemistry. I loved studying that. Got there and realized, you know, I don't really want to be in school that long and I don't want that type of career after I graduate.   I knew my ultimate goal was to be a stay-at-home mom and I was like, okay, so why am I pursuing this? But I loved the field of study. And so changed my major, got accepted into pharmacy school, spent a quarter there and went, this isn't really what I want to do either.   So then I was led by the Dean of Pharmacy School to the field of food science, which was an up-and-coming industry at the time. I focused my attention more on the microbiology aspect of it and after graduation, I worked for Kraft Foods for almost five years as a bacteriologist in the lab there. I met my husband at the University of Georgia, and we married, actually, our senior year.   And so then, like I said, after I graduated, I started working for Kraft until I had my first child. I did become a mom, for sure. I have nine children, seven biological, two we adopted later in life, ranging in ages now from 45.   My oldest daughter doesn't like me to tell that, but it's too bad. It's what it is. 45 to 29, I believe Olivia is.   Yes, 29. And then I have 19 grandchildren and my very first great grandchild was born just a few weeks ago. So that's been a real blessing and a treat.   But after graduation, because I loved studying, it's funny, I tell everybody I'm a much better student now than I ever was in college. It's funny how you love to study once you don't have to perform with tests and things. But I continued studying physiology, biochemistry, read the works of prominent biochemists of the day and kind of came at everything with believing that we're fearfully and wonderfully made.   Our bodies know what they need and if they're not getting something they need, then chances are we're going to see sickness or lack of health. So, I kind of came at everything from that standpoint. It might be a little simplistic, but I think it's a great starting place.   So, I focused on feeding my family healthy food, you know, supplementing when we needed to. I tell people I grew up Southern. I grew up in a family of cooks and not chefs, but we cooked.   We ate real meat, real vegetables. My husband and I loved to garden. We grew our own corn and peas and beans and tomatoes and all the things.   So, we were eating real food. But we weren't a sickly family for sure, not compared to what others were, but we still had our share, our fair share. And so, we clipped along like this and I, in 1991, because of my interest in physiology, biochemistry, I subscribed to a publication, a health journal.   And the first publication that came into my home was entitled, "How to Greatly Reduce the Risk of Common Diseases." In this journal, the history of white flour was presented. Now, this was very eye-opening information.   Maybe I need to back up a little bit. The food science is not a nutrition degree. It's not a home economic degree.   It's the study of food processing. Everything that has to be done to keep that food safely on the shelf. Something's great. Something's not so great. So, when I read this information, I was like, how did I miss what's done to our bread? Through my studies, I had always read that whole wheat flour was better, but I didn't understand why.   So, in this journal, the history of white flour was presented. All the processing that is done to make that flour sit on the shelf forever, never really. And this is, like I said, what opened my eyes.   I learned that whole grains, real whole grains are the most nutrient-dense food God has given us. But in that journal, I learned that only when they're freshly milled, do they retain all their vital nutrients. You know, like I said, I had read that whole wheat flour was better.   I was trying to buy the stuff in the store, but it was kind of gross, nasty, I say. Didn't make nice bread, certainly not fluffy muffins. So, kind of gave up on that, trying to make bread with the store-bought whole grain flour.   And so, we were just buying whole wheat flour from the store. But I learned in that journal, it's not really what you think it is. And I, so like I said, I also, as a food scientist, what was so enlightening to me, when I read that word enrichment on the bags of flour or the bread products in the store, I thought, wow, we're making this better than it would have been, had we not done this favor.   I soon learned in this journal that that was not a favor that food companies are doing for us. They replace in their enrichment, a mere fraction of the nutrients that are there. And of course, I learned that once the flour is milled, I learned, well, let me, grains are storable, left whole and intact.   They store fairly indefinitely. But once that flour is, once that grain is milled into flour, it begins to spoil. The nutrients begin to oxidize.   So this led to the invention of these huge steel rolling mills that would take out the very nutrient rich bran, the oil laden germ that was causing the spoilage of the flour and leaving only the endosperm part, which is the white flour, protein and starch. Wonderful discovery. This flour won't spoil.   It'll sit on the shelf forever. And like I said, it looked like a wonderful discovery. And this all happened in the late 1800s, early 1900s.   By about 1910, the steel rolling mills had completely replaced the local millers because prior to the 1900s, most of the bread consumed in this country was either milled at home or the flour was purchased from a local miller. The bread was made at home and it was consumed at home. But with this invention, steel rolling, the steel rolling mills displaced the local millers, white flour, white bread became food now for everyone, rich and poor alike.   And can you imagine every housewife going, yay, I don't have to mill my flour anymore. I'll never forget years ago, Brad's 93-year-old grandfather lived with us for a little while. And I was in the kitchen milling some corn for cornbread.   And he went like this from his chair. He went, "I milled a lot of corn in my day." So, you can imagine people were like, hallelujah, we don't have to mill our flour.   But what seemed like an amazing, convenient, life-saving discovery actually turned out to not be so great. Shortly thereafter, the steel rolling mills and white flour became food for everybody. Three diseases became epidemic.   Beriberi, which is a vitamin B1 deficiency, it results in nervous disorders. Pellagra is a vitamin B3 or niacin deficiency, results in GI issues, skin issues, dementia, mental insanity. And that one really interested me because I did some more research on that and actually found out that the first case of pellagra was diagnosed right here in Atlanta, Georgia, which I'm from that area, you know, this area where our store in Woodstock is 35 miles north.   That first year 30,000 cases were diagnosed. Then anemia was the third disease. This puzzled health officials all over the country. They're like, what in the world is going on?   Why are we seeing this outbreak of diseases? And at first they thought beriberi and pellagra were maybe some type of infectious disease. But eventually they traced it to the new white flour that was on the market and the missing B vitamins and iron minerals that were provided by the bran and the germ.   Because for all practical purposes, that's where your nutrients are. The endosperm, white flours, protein and starch, protein and starches that we need, but not without the fiber, the B vitamins, the vitamin E, the inositol, choline, the iron, the calcium, all those nutrients. And so, things kind of clipped along.   They went to the millers and said, you got to put the bran and germ back in because of all the sickness. But the millers were like yeah, no, that's not going to happen because they had found a very lucrative market for the byproducts, which is so often done now in the food industry. Byproducts of the milling process, the bran and germ were sold to the cattle feed industry, white flour to the people.   So they're like, yeah, we're not giving up that money-making market. So things progressed until 1948. And finally, health officials stepped in, the government stepped in and mandated, you've got to fix the flour, you've got to enrich it.   And that's where I discovered what a deceptive term that is for the 35 to 40, who knows really how many nutrients are lost when they take the bran and germ away. They only replaced it with four, three B vitamins and iron. And of course, B1, B2, B3 and iron.   Supposedly, this took care of the beriberi and pellagra. But I always have to stop here and say, how many nervous disorders do we have in our country today? How many, how much GI disturbances and bowel issues, digestive issues?   How about dementia, mental insanity? What about skin eruptions? I don't think it took care of it.   But anyway, they think it did. And then it would take 50 years, 1998, after watching the rising incidence of birth defects and understanding that it was the missing folate that is no longer in the flour, richest food source, or most common, most readily eaten food source of folate, bread. Who knew?   So, they mandated then that a fifth nutrient be added. And that was folic acid, which, let me stop there and say this, these are synthetically produced supplements, vitamins that are being added to your flour. And particularly the B vitamins, this can be very troublesome, because the B vitamins come as a family, they come as a group, they work together synergistically.   When you take one out of context from the other out of balance, it actually depletes you and causes you to have a greater need. We're seeing that now with folic acid and the development of MTHFR, the folate, you know, reductase gene mutation. So anyway, it's caused more problems than it's worth.   And I've always thought about the scripture Proverbs 14:12, I believe it says, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but the end thereof is death." And we can certainly see that. You know, and if that were not enough, now, we've, we've taken all this away, we produce this beautiful white flour, but the residual oils cause it some yellowing.   So can't have yellowing of that flour. So, they began to choose to bleach the flour and a product called nitrogen trichloride was used for more than 25 years to bleach the flour. It was finally taken off the market because they discovered that this nitrogen trichloride caused seizures in dogs.   Are you ready for this? Hyperactivity.   Laura Dugger: (14:22 - 14:22) Hmm.   Sue Becker: (14:22 - 29:18) When I read that information, it was in 1991. That was the beginning of the scourge of ADD and hyperactivity we're now seeing in our children today. And I couldn't help but wonder, you know, when I read that information, there was one little boy in my son's music class, you know, and, but now, wow, it's pretty prevalent.   So then another bleaching agent is benzoyl peroxide. It's known to destroy B vitamins and vitamin E. And let me just tell you this, grains are one of the, especially wheat is one of the most nutrient dense food groups. Like I said, but it's the, one of the richest food sources of vitamin E and no amount of vitamin E has ever been put back in our enriched right white flour.   So, we lost that source, but now we're using a bleaching agent that's going to destroy it and B vitamins. And then potassium bromate is often used as a dough conditioner. It helps strengthen that gluten structure to help get a better rise in the bread. It's known to cause liver issues and thyroid issues.   And this is what we were consuming. So, wow. Yeah.   Talk about my mind being blown, my eyes being open. And then the rest of the journal was a brief discussion of the common diseases that plague Americans and showed why it was directly related, how it was directly related to our consumption of the processed white flour, lacking the nutrients and the fiber diseases like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, diverticulitis, even varicose veins, skin issues, low energy. I mean, it just went on and on.   And from my, with my background, this made absolute sense. I knew it was scientifically sound, but it was also, it was a Christian publication. It was biblically sound.   And what changed my life here was like I said, always read whole wheat flour, better whole wheat flour, better, but I was buying the stuff in the store and even whole wheat bread in the store. Didn't really see a lot of difference in it. But this introduced me to the idea of an in-home grain mill, buying grain and milling my own flour.   That was life changing. I was like, this is amazing. I can do this.   Wanted a mill. My husband actually bought me a mill for my birthday in 1991. The mill came into our home.   I milled flour. I made bread. I ate bread.   It was delicious. It wasn't gritty. It wasn't heavy.   It wasn't dense. And I tell everyone I pooped the next morning and it was like, what just happened to me? So that was my life-changing experience.   First, first day, you know, my bowel issues were corrected. I had lifelong issues with constipation, struggled with it. Knew I didn't want to take chemical accidents.   So tried to do more alternative solutions, find those and they worked if I did them, but they were, I tell people they were outside of my, your realm of daily eating. You had to do something special. And honestly, sometimes I think we look at alternative methods, you know, supplementation or treatment for ailments that are afflicting us.   And we're not getting, still not getting to the root of the problem. My problem was I was not eating enough fiber. The white bread, the white flour was constipating me.   So this was the only change I made. I tell everyone I've not been constipated since 1991. I know you wanted to hear that, but, but then I had five young children by this time and I, I homeschool my children.   We were active in church and baseball and music lessons and all the things, you know, we were busy. I had nursing baby and, and I, but I'm telling you, when I started just adding this bread to our already real food, we were eating. I noticed significant energy.   Like I said, constipation gone right away. Then I begin to notice first week. It didn't take months.   I was like, wow, I have more energy. My frequent headaches went away. Also with my bowels moving, my chronic constipation went away.   I lived on antihistamines before bread since bread. That's another thing I can stand here and tell you. I've not had an antihistamine or a decongestant of any kind since 1991.   That's pretty amazing. I had frequent migraines, not had one since we started the bread. So those were, I've noticed my sugar cravings went away because now I was getting the real carbohydrates that my body needed and it's sustaining energy.   And then my children, I just noticed they were they were, they would eat and they were satisfied. They love the bread. They love the muffins.   They love the pancakes. It was healthy food. I didn't have to coerce them to eat.   No more snotty noses, no more ear infections for them. And that we just became a much healthier family. And they, my kids didn't necessarily catch every bug that came around.   And if one of them did get sick, didn't necessarily mean that all of us got sick, which a big family, that's, that's pretty significant, you know? And so it was just, and the bread was delicious. When I read that information about whole grains and, and, you know, how bad white flour was, I was, I was thinking that this freshly milled flour was going to be just like the store-bought whole wheat flour I was buying in the store.   And you can probably already tell I'm a very passionate person. So, I read this information. I'm like, we're never eating white bread again.   We're never, white flour's never coming into our house again. And if we have to choke this bread down, we're doing this, you know? Well, we did not have to choke it down at all.   The muffins, the bread, the pancakes, the brownies, cookies, everything I made was absolutely delicious. It was filling and it was satisfying. A lot of people would say, you must spend all your time in the kitchen when all my kids were home.   I'm going, actually, no, we eat breakfast and everybody's satisfied. Nobody snacks. And even my kids begin to notice how other kids snack all the time.   Not my kids, they would eat and they wouldn't eat till the next meal. And so, it was just very, very satisfying. So, I began to share my bread with everybody, bake bread for other people, take it here, take it there.   The next thing I know, so be warned, if you ever start milling and you make bread for somebody, they're going to ask you to make bread for them. So, I did start making bread for other people. And the next thing I know, they're coming to me and saying, my cholesterol dropped 85 points and all I changed was this bread.   You know, I feel better. I have more energy. And the lady with the cholesterol, she, I continued to make bread for her for a while.   And I always laugh. One of the favorite things she liked that I made for her was cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing. And she said, I ate one after every meal and my cholesterol dropped 85 points in just one month.   And I always laugh. I'm like a statin drug with all kinds of side effects, cinnamon roll with cream cheese icing, you know, and she said, it was her testimony. She goes, "I knew it was the bread. I know it is the bread because three doctors, three different medications, three years, nothing has changed. And this is the only change I made."   So, I started hearing this. And of course, she told all her friends, the next thing you know, everybody's wanting me to make this cholesterol lowering bread for them, you know, and I'll never forget. By this point, I had had my sixth child, still homeschooling, still doing laundry, still baseball, church, all the things. And here I was making bread for my family and then making bread for all these people coming to my door.   And I was spending all day every day making bread and for others and myself. And I just got really tired, to be honest with you. And I was making this bread and a thought came to my mind.   And I just looking back now, I know God put those words in my heart and in my mind. That day, I had also had a few people ask me, would I teach them how to make bread? And where could they get a grain mill?   So the idea came to me, met my husband in the driveway. And I said, when he came home from work, and I said, you know what, I don't think I'm supposed to make bread for the world. I think I'm supposed to teach the world to make bread for themselves.   And that was the beginning right there. We sat down on the porch swing and talked about what we would call it. And I said, I want to call it Bread Beckers.   That's, you know, our, it's funny, we didn't know that at the time. But Becker is a German name that means the baker. So, it is bread bakers.   And anyway, so and, and it's funny, because at that point in 1992, my world was four people, four people had asked me about where they could get a grain mill, and what I teach them to make bread. And today, we, well, we, started our business right then in our home, took a little while to, you know, get everything. And we outgrew our home by 1998, what my husband and I and my children could do.   I mean, it just grew from the testimonies of other people. I mean, just like that lady when and then you get hundreds of people sharing different stories and passing it on, people, people start noticing. So we incorporated with a longtime friend and partner in 1998, moved the business out of our home, we're currently in this lovely 10,000 square foot warehouse, we moved here in 1999.   We have a nice studio kitchen, this is where all my cooking classes take place that we can seat 100 people and regularly we fill up classes like that. We have a lot of online classes already for people to view on our YouTube channel. But and then a few years ago, it's back in 2009, we acquired another warehouse because we are passionate about providing God's people with grain.   That first week here, like I said, customer base of four. A week after starting our business, getting all the license and all that really hadn't started getting anything, God woke me up and said that he was raising up Bread Beckers to be like Joseph to supply his people with grain. And I wrote in my journal that morning that it would be a tremendous thing.   And it would take a few months, we invested in a lot of wheat, we took all of our savings, this was before we incorporated, it was just my husband and I and our family and bought some wheat, you know, and had spent all of our savings. Well, I got a little nervous. And I woke up that morning after unloading all this wheat and writing the checks and seeing the money go out of the savings account.   And I'm like, I don't think the electric company is going to take a bucket of wheat, you know, for payment. So this was my fear. And I felt like, you know, maybe I was being deceived, maybe we were being misled.   And I just cried out to the Lord that he would speak to me and confirm to me that this was what we were supposed to do. And this is how I do it. I just cry out to the Lord.   And then I just go on with my regular Bible reading, not looking for something I could have gone to the story of Joseph because he had already spoken that to me. But my verse for the day in one of my devotionals was Proverbs 11:26. And it says "Cursed is the man who holds back grain when the public needs it. But a blessing from God and man is upon the head of him who sells it."   My husband took that vision. I know you talk about, I was like, what? I could hardly wait for Brad to get up. My husband, Brad, you know, I had awakened early because I was stirring and all just anxious and fearful. And the enemy was just coming at me.   And when I shared that all with Brad that he was sleeping next to me, not knowing that I was in all this turmoil. And he just looked at me and he goes, "Sue, I can think of no other verse that God could have given you to answer and your question and to calm your fears." And so he took it to heart.   So, we now have a second warehouse. It's 13,000 square feet. We are probably one of the largest grain packaging facilities in the southeastern United States.   We have hundreds. I don't know how many we're growing everyday co-ops all over the United States. And we bring in two semi truckloads a week.   I mean, I'm sorry, a month, which is actually a little bit more than that. It's about 190,000 pounds of wheat. That's just wheat.   Package it down into these great food grade buckets, plastic buckets. And we package it with carbon dioxide gas. So it's perfectly storable.   We can guarantee that it's bug free. You know, the enemies of grain are moisture bugs and rodents. So that's why we really firmly believe in packaging it all in buckets.   And like I said, we have probably 180 co-ops now. I don't know. It's growing every day.   We ship wheat all over the country, grain and everything we sell. So it's been a real journey and just a real blessing. And then I started a ministry called Real Bread Outreach.   We clipped along locally, kind of providing grain and grain mills for those who truly can't afford it. But then in 2016, God called me to Haiti. I made 15 trips to Haiti.   We built a bakery there. We trained up another team at an orphanage and they were making bread every day. So right now, in Haiti, it's an intense situation, but the bakery is thriving, feeding about 1,200 school children a day.   And then the other, it's about 150 orphans. Then we went to Tanzania in 2021. We built a bakery there, started a feeding program.   We've helped start a bakery in Israel that is ministering to the Jewish people. We helped train a bakery in Uganda and we've sent mills to missionaries in Japan and the Philippines and Nigeria and Kenya, just all over. And I'll close this part with this.   A few years ago, a friend of mine just, she did, she remembered, she said, "Sue, do you remember when you said to Brad, I don't think I'm supposed to make bread for the world, but teach the world to make bread for themselves." And I'm going to tear up a little bit looking back now, like I said, four people, that was my world. Today, it truly is the world.   And not just because of the internet, but because of where God has called us through our ministry. And it's a real blessing. So, my encouragement to everyone is do the small thing.   You never know where God's going to take you in years to come and how it's going to bless the world.   Laura Dugger: (29:19 - 29:21) So I think that was a lot.   Sue Becker: (29:21 - 29:22) I know.   Laura Dugger: (29:23 - 32:39) It was beautiful. And it makes me think of the verse, do not despise small beginnings for the Lord delights to see the work begin. I'm paraphrasing, but I love how much it has blessed the world.   And I remember the first time I heard you, I was trying to just picture what is a mill, but you literally just turn it on and you pour the grain in and it comes out as flour. It's so easy. And so we purchased our own.   After our conversation, I get to stick in our loaves in the oven. They're still rising right now. And now a brief message from our sponsor.   Radiant Faith and Wellness Event is a unique event designed to bridge the aspects of faith and wellness and to live as our bodies, minds and souls were intended and created. So come together with other like-minded women to receive Christ centered teaching on health and wellness, to nourish your body with good food and to renew your mind and help you shine radiantly. At Radiant, wellness goes beyond worldly standards of wellness and self-help.   So, from worship and inspiring speakers to guided movement, meaningful conversation, biblical teaching, every part of this event is crafted to help you reconnect and step forward renewed. It's the perfect time of year to experience something like this. Radiant is more than just an event.   It's actually a transformational experience and supportive community dedicated to helping women grow spiritually and physically. Their speakers bring this perfect balance of encouragement and deep wisdom, each within their own area of expertise and passion. They do a remarkable job of creating a safe and joyful space where every woman feels seen, supported and empowered to grow.   So, join the Radiant Faith and Wellness family today and experience what it means to live rooted, restored and radiant from the inside out. Visit https://www.google.com/search?q=mygracioushealing.com/radiant-event or you can check out their Instagram page at @radiantwellnessevent. Tickets are limited, so make sure you book today and enter the code SAVVY when registering for a special discount.   Thanks for your sponsorship. So going back to these ailments, I'm going to reference two other things that you said. First, this may be a little unrelated, but even thinking of feeding people around the world or feeding our children, you mentioned, you know, a lot of times if your kids were picky eaters, you'd say, okay, ditch the bread and just eat the meat.   But because it's so nourishing and nutritious and that Jesus has given us this as a grace gift, this bread, you can ditch the meat and eat just the bread and get so much nutritional value.   Sue Becker: (32:40 - 37:32) Yes, that and that's funny that you bring that up because, you know, one of the things over the years of studying is of the 44 to 46 absolutely essential nutrients needed by your body for health and to promote life. There's only four slightly deficient or missing in wheat, vitamin A, vitamin C. So, God gave us another kind of food.   Remember in Genesis chapter 1:29, he says, “I've given you plants that bear fruit with the seed in them.” So that's our fruits and vegetables. That's where we get our vitamin A, vitamin C.   Then we get our vitamin D from the sunshine if we get out there and get some. And then B12, of course, is low or is not found in any plant product. That's I mean, plant food.   So, you have to get that from your meat, your red meats and things like that. But that's and so learning that you're absolutely right. When my kids were growing up and the bread was my little toddler, how she'd tell me she was hungry, she would say, “I want a roll with honey.”   That was what she wanted to eat. And I would take the meat off the sandwich. And before bread, it was eat the meat.   After bread, it was just eat the bread, you know, because I knew just from that. And I started thinking about when Jesus said, “Man does not live by bread alone.” He was quoting the Old Testament, but by every word that proceeds forth from the mouth of God, he was reiterating that you think you're living because you have bread and all the biblical, you know, so many of the biblical feasts, Passover and First Fruits, Pentecost, they're around the barley harvest and the wheat harvest.   Grain was a big part of their life and of their sacrifices and all that. And he was saying, you think you're living just because you have bread. But I'm telling you, there's a spiritual life that you have to feed as well.   So, yeah, that was a fun time seeing the change of my perspective of just eat the bread. And, you know, some days, you know, breakfast was typically a pretty big meal for us. Sometimes it would just be pancakes, but a lot of times it would be eggs and freshly ground grits and bread of some sort, muffins.   And then lunch might be muffins and a smoothie because we really weren't that hungry from the bread at breakfast and then dinner. We eat normal. People think we're weird eaters.   But, you know, like I said, I grew up Southern. So, we do country fried steak. We do pot roast.   We do chicken. We do brown rice, mashed potatoes, green beans. You know, we do it all.   And you mentioned something that was funny. When I first started, when I would take bread places, people go, “Oh, my gosh, this coffee cake is so delicious or this bread is so delicious. Can I get your recipe?”   And I'd go, “Well, yeah, you can have my recipe. But you've got to understand, I mill my own flour.” Two things they would always respond with.   And the first one they would go, “You do what?” And I would go, “I mill my own flour.” The second one absolutely intrigued me for years and years until I did a study on what grain mills, the local millers mills, you know, waterwheels and gristmills and ox treading out the grain.   But they would always say to me, “Where do you live?” And I think they thought I must have had a barn and an ox or I lived by a river to have the gristmill to power my mill. Now, you can see my little mill behind me.   It just sits on my counter. And you're right. Turn it on, pour it in, comes out flour in a matter of seconds.   And I tell people, it's really not any slower or more tedious than taking your flour canister out of your cabinet. And I realize we've deviated in this day and time from even using flour and baking things ourselves when we can go to the store and buy it already baked. But it'll change your life.   I have never seen one dietary change bring so many significant across the board, broad spectrum health benefits to myself, my family, and so many people now that share their testimonies with me. It's just been amazing, just absolutely amazing. And, you know, I always, my husband always likes for me to say, you know, in the 25 years of raising my children on this bread, we only had to take them to the doctor twice for an illness.   Twice. And twice on antibiotics. They needed it.   There's a time and place. Twice to the doctor for an illness. In 25 years, there are people and families that go to the doctor more than that in a week.   So, when people say I can't afford it or I don't have time, I'm like, wow, I can just tell you the life-saving and money-saving advantages are, it's hard to describe. So yeah.   Laura Dugger: (37:33 - 38:05) Yeah. And like you said, it's an enjoyable process. It is.   But also, okay, referencing one other thing, just thinking about these ailments. You had quoted, I believe a doctor just saying about constipation that is, and I don't want to botch it, so I'd love to know if you remember this, that most Americans is that three out of five suffer from constipation or even chronic constipation. And that, was it the number one cause of breast cancer and prostate cancer?   Sue Becker: (38:05 - 39:29) Oh, wow. Yes. I'd almost forgotten that.   Yes. I was listening to a CD that someone shared with me, and it was by an oncologist. And I still remember, I would listen to things as we began to travel and share and teach, and I would listen to teaching.   And so, I had this cassette, if you can remember those or even know what those are. And I remember where I was, I was on I-10 headed to Jacksonville to a homeschool show. And this oncologist at the very end of her message, she said, “Toxins are stored in your, let's see, let me see. So, she said toxins are stored in your fatty tissue. In a woman, it's your breast. It's, and in a man, it's his prostate.”   And she said, “When toxins are not carried out of their, your body daily through bowel elimination, then these toxins get absorbed into the body and stored in your fat tissue.” And she said, “So a direct correlation between cancer and constipation is there.” And, and I was just like, what did she just say?   And that blew me away. I mean, that was not me saying it, this was an oncologist. And she's saying one of the leading issues is constipation.   Wow. Yeah, I'd almost forgotten about that.   Laura Dugger: (39:30 - 39:44) Well, and such a simple swap and getting to still enjoy these foods. But in addition to being healthier and the health benefits and making us feel better, how does this also potentially affect our weight?   Sue Becker: (39:45 - 42:33) Well, that's a good question, because we're all told that bread is bad, that bread will make you fat. And I totally agree. The bread that's in the store is devoid of nutrients.   It's devoid of fiber that fills you up. It's devoid of nutrients that satisfy fiber that fills you up. And it's heavily sweetened, sugared, you know, most of the breads we're eating are not just flour, water, yeast, salt. They're usually loaded with other things.   So, they're not satisfying. The fiber in real bread fills you up. So, like I said, you're not going to overeat, you're going to eat and you're going to be satisfied.   You know, I always tell the story when, when we were eating just bread from the store, I had five children, I would make sandwiches, they would, you know, cut them in half, I would make five sandwiches, they would, or I'd make the whole loaf, actually, they would fight over the last one. After bread, real bread that fills you up, I would make five sandwiches, cut them in half, and sometimes they would eat them all. And sometimes they wouldn't.   It was because it was filling, and it was satisfying. And that's something people need to understand. Also, the nutritional deficiency in the foods that we're eating in the store, especially our bread, they're leaving us malnourished, really.   Dr. Denmark, one of the oldest, well, the oldest practicing pediatrician in the country, she lived right here in Georgia. And she said, “We're the most undernourished, overfed people in the world.” We eat a lot because we're never satisfied, because the foods we're eating does not supply our body with the nutrients that we need.   And so, we're constantly craving. I don't think a lot of people don't understand what cravings are. You're craving food because you're needing a nutrient, you know.   And so, we find that we can eat and eat and eat, and, or not we, but Americans can overeat, and they do overeat because they're never satisfied. And so, real bread fills you up, real bread satisfies, it takes those sugar cravings away, which, you know, a lot of high calorie foods, they're loaded with sugars, and that's what we're craving a lot of times. I read something, women tend to crave sweets and chocolate, and men tend to crave salty.   And, but both, if we're craving, you know, processed foods, you know, you can sit down and eat the whole bag of cookies, where you make cookies from freshly milled flour, one, maybe two, if you go three, you kind of go, I really didn't need that one, you know. So, it's just filling, it's satisfying. We have so many people, testimonies of people saying they've lost, one lady said she lost over a hundred pounds, that was over the course of a while, you know, of a year or so, but she did it right.   She just started eating real food that nourishes and satisfies.   Laura Dugger: (42:34 - 44:21) I want to make sure that you're up to date with our latest news. We have a new website. You can visit thesavvysauce.com and see all of the latest updates.   You may remember Francie Heinrichson from episode 132, where we talked about pursuing our God-given dreams. She is the amazing businesswoman who has carefully designed a brand-new website for Savvy Sauce Charities, and we are thrilled with the final product, so I hope you check it out. There you're going to find all of our podcasts, now with show notes and transcriptions listed, a scrapbook of various previous guests, and an easy place to join our email list to receive monthly encouragement and questions to ask your loved ones, so that you can have your own practical chats for intentional living.   You will also be able to access our donation button or our mailing address for sending checks that are tax deductible, so that you can support the work of Savvy Sauce Charities and help us continue to reach the nations with the good news of Jesus Christ. So, make sure you visit thesavvysauce.com.   And throughout the years, you've seen these different trends from Atkins to Paleo, and now a lot of times we're told gluten is the enemy, but I love how you say that wheat can actually be the cure, not the cause.   So, can you elaborate on that, and even why some people with gluten sensitivities may still be able to consume bread that was made with freshly milled grain?   Sue Becker: (44:21 - 1:01:23) Right, so, yeah, I think what people need to understand is what gluten actually is. And gluten's not really even in grains, it's just an easy way to verbalize it, I guess. So, gluten is the stretchy substance that forms from two proteins that are found uniquely in the wheat family of grains.   So, when you mill wheat into flour, and you hydrate it, wet it, mix it, you know, make a dough out of it, those two proteins, gliadin and glutamine, they form this stretchy substance called gluten. Well, it's very important in bread making that you have these two proteins, because when you make a yeast leavened bread, whether it's sourdough or commercial yeast today, those organisms feed on the carbohydrates both in the wheat and in your dough, and they produce carbon dioxide gas. So, that gluten, those stretchy strands of protein, those two proteins, they trap that carbon dioxide gas, and that's what enables the bread to rise.   So, it's unique to the wheat family of grain. It has always been there. It's why wheat is the king of bread making and always has been.   Who put those two proteins in the wheat family of grains? God did. And just so you know, wheat is not genetically modified, and it has not been altered to produce wheat that has a higher gluten content.   What determines the protein content of grain more than anything, which, what did I say gluten is? It's formed from two proteins. What determines the protein content in grain more than anything is rainfall during the growing season.   So, that's why here in the southeastern United States, we can't make yeast bread making wheat. We can't grow it because we have too much rainfall and it's too warm. So, we grow what's called soft wheat or pastry flour.   That's why southerners eat biscuits, because that's the kind of bread that we can make with the wheat grown here. The colder, drier climates in the breadbasket states of the country, they grow the hard bread making wheat. Now herein lies the problem.   When those steel rolling mills came on the scene and began to take the bran and germ out, what did they leave us with? Protein and starch. Those gluten forming proteins and starch are in that endosperm.   God never intended us to eat that white flour, those protein and starches without the vitamins, the minerals, the enzymes, the vitamin E that the bran and germ provide. So, therein lies a lot of the problem and that's what causes so many digestive issues is that we aren't getting the nutrients and the fiber that will keep our bowels clean and our digestive system moving the way it is supposed to. Now herein lies a bigger problem is that in the food industry and the American people's craving for fluffier bread.   In the food industry, they thought, okay, we can give you fluffier bread. If we take the wheat and we wash it until only all that is left is those two proteins, those gluten forming proteins. They get this stretchy substance and then they dry it and powder it and they add even more pure gluten forming proteins to that white bread.   So, now we have an even bigger problem and then and even in that whole grain bread, people want fluffy bread. They don't want, you know, coarser whole grain bread. So, check your ingredients.   That 100% whole grain bread that you might be already buying, third or fourth ingredient gonna be vital wheat gluten or gluten flour, whatever they call it and that is greatly upsetting the fiber to flour ratio and causing digestive issues. And then, you know, just the heavily consumption of that bread and you know, the commercially processed bread is a real problem. So, now what we have is people, you know, Americans consuming this bread.   Now, they have every symptom of something called celiac disease. Celiac disease is real. It is genetic.   I am learning. I used to say it's not reversible, but I am learning something that you might have the genes for celiac disease, but they can be turned on or turned off. So, perhaps what is happening is you might have the gene, but now it's being turned on by eating and consuming this high gluten, if you will, bread out of context, not the way God made it.   But then also what is also happening is so now we have people that have all the symptoms. Well, let me back up and just explain what celiac disease, celiac disease, true genetic celiac disease. You are born with these genes, the inability to break down that and metabolize gliadin.   That's one of those gluten forming proteins, which the whole wheat family has that. So, if you can't break it down, it's going to cause digestive issues, abdominal cramping. It's going to eventually as those that protein gets dumped into your large intestine, your bowel, it's going to lay down the villi.   You're going to have leaky gut. You're going to have all these issues. That is true genetic celiac disease, but it affects less than 1% of Americans have those genes and have it turned on for true genetic celiac disease.   So, what is being diagnosed today? Well, everybody eating the commercially processed high gluten packed or you know bread, they're developing the same symptoms, digestive issues, abdominal cramping, laying down the villi. So, they're being diagnosed with celiac disease when it a lot of times is not true genetic celiac disease and I'm not professing to be a medical professional.   I'm not giving anybody medical advice, but here's the good news that I do want to say to you. Non-genetic celiac disease is totally reversible. And the good news is people are finding some that have been diagnosed with celiac going gluten-free been gluten-free for 20 years.   They're finding they can eat the freshly milled flour because it has the right ratio and the good fiber and the good nutrients to heal their gut, cleanse their gut, and get their bowels moving, cleans out. So, bring that villi back to life and they're thriving. They're not just tolerating the bread.   They're thriving and finding reversal of many, many, many health issues. And another big issue too is people don't understand that for the most part digestion begins in your mouth, carbohydrate digestion. You chew your food, your saliva mixes with your food and there's an enzyme carbohydrate digesting enzyme called amylase.   Once you swallow that down in your stomach, your stomach is where protein digestion takes place. It must have an acid environment for those protein digestive enzymes to work. God knew that we're fearfully and wonderfully made.   He created cells in our stomach to produce acid brings the pH. If y'all know what pH is down to one very, very acidic could eat a hole in your stomach. But he also created these cells that produce mucus that lines our stomach and protects it from that high acid.   So, that's where protein digestion needs to take place. Here's the problem. What is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in America? Prilosec, Nexium.   These are antacids. They're prescribing it for something called acid reflux, which is only compounding the problem. So, these antacids are doing exactly what the name of them describes.   They're alkalizing your stomach acid. So, what's that going to do to protein digestion? It's going to compromise it.   Huh? So, yeah, and the real cause of acid reflux is not too much stomach acid. It is actually too low stomach acid.   Our body's not getting the nutrients that needs to produce that stomach acid. Now, it's acid enough that when it comes back up in our esophagus it burns, but there's a little flap that God created right there at our stomach and our esophagus called the epiglottis. Do you know what's and it's supposed to close so that when that stomachs churning and doing its digestion, it doesn't back that acid doesn't back up into your esophagus, but it closes.   It's stimulated to close by the high acid in your stomach. Do you see what's happening here? So, we're being prescribed an antacid which now we don't necessarily get the burn, but there's all kinds of side effects.   We've compromised protein digestion, which what did we say gluten is protein. Also, do you know the technical term for an allergy a food allergy not a sensitivity or an intolerance the technical term for a food allergy is an adverse reaction to a protein component of your food. I have never seen so many food allergies as we see today.   It's very interesting. Some people are diagnosed with a gluten sensitivity. Well, of course, I think everybody is sensitive to the bread and the store.   Some people can tolerate a little bit better than others, but I know when I occasionally, you know, we go out to a party or an event and we usually avoid bread, but sometimes it's on everything. You know, I know I wake up the next morning and I'm like, I don't feel good. I have a stomachache.   So, I think everybody is sensitive to the bread in the store, but we have now hundreds of testimonies of people who thought they had to be gluten-free or say I have, you know, I haven't eaten bread in 20 years because made me sick. It did this it did that and they are finding they can eat the freshly milled flour because even wheat because it's the right proportions all the nutrients, you know, one of the amino acids that's found abundantly and wheat is glutamine Google it and you'll see a lot of health professionals will actually give you glutamine supplements to heal your gut and it's and it's in the bread. So, then part of the other problem that I see then when people think they're gluten-sensitive or have to be gluten-free now mind you if you truly are genetic celiac, you probably will not be able to eat wheat and I'm saying probably now because I'm learning some things that we can turn those genes off.   I don't know but if you truly are genetic celiac, but that is going to be a diagnosis that probably came when you were young you were going to always have had symptoms of these if you are now 20 or 30 and all of a sudden having these issues and you've been eating wheat all your life chances are you're not true genetic celiac. So, that's something you need to look at but people are finding they can eat the flour. They can eat the wheat and part of a real concern of mine is when you go gluten-free if you don't really need to I've been doing some studying as a food microbiologist gut microbiome has been a big topic.   I've shared I've taught way before it was trendy on, you know probiotics and all of that and fermented foods. I've been teaching it since 1992 but what happens that they're finding on these gluten-free diets. It's actually diminishing your good gut microbiome and encouraging the growth of more pathogenic making you more susceptible to C. diff, E. coli and other sickness causing organisms.   Then you're going to have those organisms are critical for breaking down food that gets dumped into the large intestine and encouraging digestion and enzymes that they create and all kinds of B vitamins and I could go on and on so that is being compromised the next thing, you know, you have allergies to eggs allergies to milk these very restrictive diets change that gut microbiome and they are causing a lot of gut health issues and allergy issues. I've talked to two people in the last few months one lady told to go gluten-free been gluten-free for years. She with tears in her eyes couple of weeks ago came down from Ohio hugged me in was came to our store just wanted to come to our store.   I happen to be here that day. She hugged me tears in her eyes and said I was down to eight foods that I could eat another lady in one of my classes came up and said I was down to seven foods that I could eat, you know, so It puts you on a treadmill that I don't think you want to be on when you start very restrictive diets. It's and not just gluten-free, but even you know, the carnivore and the keto and the paleo the heavy meat diets you need whole grains to break the fats down and cholesterol that those foods are providing and I'm a meat eater.   I mean, that's fine, but to exclude the most nutrient-dense food group God has given us in my mind is very dangerous. Let's see if we can get healing and reverse that I have a podcast and I do it's the bread stories now and I one of my favorites and I recommend it more often than any other is episode 66 sit with Sarah Valentine if anybody that I hear of that say they have to be gluten-free or their celiac, I would say she fit the bill for what surely seemed like a true genetic celiac. She was diagnosed in I think she was around 15 or I don't remember her age.   She was in high school. I think but she had always had trouble even as a little one and she was diagnosed with celiac and she said at the end of the podcast, she goes either God supernatural healed me or it was a misdiagnosis, but she had been gluten-free for 15 years. I believe it was and she told me she said and I she had a dairy allergy.   She couldn't eat dairy and she said, you know dairy I cheated on a little bit because it would just cause me a little discomfort. She goes I never cheated on gluten. Well, her brother and her mother heard about me and they Sarah was off at college and they got a mill and started milling because her brother's children had some health issues.   I think they have warts and my work stories are great. But anyway, bought a mill. She came home from school and they said Sari.   We want you to try this. You nope. Nope.   Nope. I'm I can't finally they talked her into trying a little bit should she ate it no issues at all and she told me on that podcast. She said I pooped the best I've ever pooped.   I have pooped in a long time the next morning. I slept the best. I had no headaches had no adverse reaction and she's become if any anyone My poster child for you know, reversing what appears to be celiac disease and being able to thrive on real bread and freshly milled wheat with the right balance of those protein starches nutrients fiber enzymes vitamin E all the things that bring healing and improve digestion get the bowels cleaned out and the gut healed.   So, yeah, it's something that I think excites me the most and I call it food freedom because what I'm seeing is people are in bondage and you know, when you can't eat this and you can't eat that and I understand there's some I have a granddaughter that has a dairy a true dairy allergy and I get it and those are real and you don't want to you know diminish those but we are seeing so many people that the bread in the store totally disrupts their system and causes all kinds of issues were seeing them not only like I said tolerate bread made from freshly milled flour, but bring healing bring healing and I that is so much our Lord that God knows what he's doing in his intentional design. He is all about healing and freedom versus of setting the captives free.   Laura Dugger: (1:01:38 - 1:01:40) Oh gosh, that was a big one. Yeah.   Sue Becker: (1:01:40 - 1:02:10) Yeah, but it also just one real practical thing as we're talking about gluten and fermentation with sourdough. This is a two-parter because if you feed it with white flour or add that I'm assuming that diminishes effects and if you feed it with fresh milled flour and then add that to bake it in bread, is that like double the benefits because you've got the fermentation and the grain or how does that work?   Sue Becker: (1:02:10 - 1:07:07) You know, I can't find any real definitive information, but let's back up and let's talk about sourdough with white flour there for a while when we were still traveling back in the probably early 2000s a lot of teaching coming out going even celiacs can eat, you know sourdough bread and they were making it with white flour and all of this. Is it better than the stuff you're buying in the store? Maybe but white flour is white flour and it's still process is still been stripped of all the vitamins the minerals and the fiber.   So, in my viewpoint, it is no better for you. If you're making it's kind of a waste of time if you're making sourdough bread with white flour. Now, if you start milling your own flour and making your sourdough with that, that's a whole other realm.   And like I said, I've done lots of studies most what I find when I read is that when we went to commercial yeast, we gave up flavor. So, I get that and that the bread is kind of flavorless now. So, I get that a little bit but as Americans and especially children, we like our fluffy bread, don't we?   Yeah, so, kids, you know, don't fret if you're making bread with commercial yeast. That's the way I make most of my bread. But as a microbiologist and knowing that when those lactic acid organisms feed on sugars, they produce B vitamins.   That's like yogurt. Why yogurt has B vitamins and maybe your milk, you know, just uncultured milk doesn't. So, I know that that increases the availability of those nutrients.   So, I think there is definitely some nutritional advantages that you take it to a whole new level. But what I say that commercial yeasted bread is not healthy and you can't do that that you only need to be doing sourdough, you know, I learned to make sourdough from white flour when I was first married long before milling came into our family by the time I had my children I had vacated that and then when I started milling I used commercial yeast and have for most of my years and we saw tremendous health benefits. So, I don't diminish one over the other but I certainly recognize that yeah, you might have some better nutrient bioavailability. I don't buy into the that you have to do the long fermentations to prevent the anti-nutrients like phytic acid from keeping you from absorbing minerals because I've had mineral checks and we've seen people testify that they had to have blood transfusions regularly because they were anemic all their life.   They start milling making their bread with commercial yeast, you know, and they're no longer anemic and we've seen countless people that and the same with me. I'm never low in my minerals. So, I don't buy into that.   But I say, you know, hey if you feel like you can digest sourdough bread better than commercial yeast leavened bread. I'm not going to argue with you go for it do it. But I also don't want to put a heavy burden on especially young moms that are like it's going to take me three days to make bread, you know, or it's you know, no, it doesn't have to so that's kind of my stance on it.   Do what works for your family sourdough is a rhythm. So, you got to kind of get into it about the time I get into it. We take a trip.   I go speak somewhere. I'm gone for four days and I'm like, okay, where am I with this? So, you know, that's just kind of my viewpoint and what I want to encourage people do what works for you what you want what your family likes.   I love I've got sourdough bread rising right now. There's times when I just like I just want you know, that chewy that nice flavorful bread and then there's other times where I want a soft loaf of bread for a good Southern tomato sandwich or my kids like peanut butter sandwiches, you know, so do what works do for your family do what your family is going to eat and love and you know, my husband has a philosophy if it doesn't taste good. It's not good for you.   So, if your family, your children, especially don't like the texture and flavor of sourdough some people do but if especially if your kids are used to the bread from the store, that's going to be a hard transition for them. And if they're not going to eat it and balk at it, then it's not going to bring them the health benefits that you're trying to do for your family. So, make what's cul

The 11/23/25 message by Br Gowens is the eighth in the expository study through Philippians. The text from Phi. 1:18-26 is arguably one of the most personal and vulnerable in the Pauline epistles, as Paul expresses his hopeful perspective on his own future. The passage functions as both a window into Paul's own heart and mind and a mirror to challenge us to adopt the same outlook.

Sabbath School panel discussion and insight by 3ABN pastors and teachers. This podcast episode follows 2026 quarter 1, lesson 2 of the adult Bible study guide book. This quarter's book topic is “Uniting Heaven and Earth. Christ in Philippians and Colossians”, and this week's Sabbath School lesson is titled “Reasons for Thanksgiving and Prayer”. Join us every week for a fresh and relevant study of the word of God.  Reading: Phil. 1:1–18, 1 Cor. 13:1–8, Jer. 17:9, Col. 1:1–12, 1 Pet. 1:4, Ps. 119:105, Isa. 30:21. Memory Text: “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6, NKJV). (January 03 - January 09)  Sunday – John Lomacang - Fellowship in the GospelMonday – John Dinzey - Paul's Prayer RequestsTuesday – James Rafferty - Spiritual Discernment AppliedWednesday – Jill Morikone - Gospel FruitThursday – Shelley Quinn - Prayer Power Want the Panelists' notes? You can sign up here: https://3abnsabbathschoolpanel.com/notes/  Questions or Comments? Email us at mail@3abn.orgDonate: https://3abn.org/donate-quick.html

2026 is the year we stop striving—and start letting Jesus serve us.

In Part I of this two-part series, we focused on the magnificent gift that we as Christians are given when we accept the redemption for our sins available through Jesus' sacrifice. We talked about the magnitude of this gift and how true disciples of Jesus are also required to give back as a result of receiving this gift. According to Scripture, the action of “giving back” is accomplished through our responsibility to reverently care for it. This care is clearly identified by how we choose to live our lives as genuine followers of Christ. Fortunately, we have clear and concise instructions waiting for us in the Scriptures! Part I established the “required care focuses” from Romans 12:1—recognition, awe, gratitude, humility, intentional self‑denial, adopting a new mindset and full engagement. These attitudes prepare believers for the deeper work of transformation highlighted in the next verse. Romans 12:2 introduces two essential components of discipleship: NOT conforming to the world Being transformed by the renewing of the mind. Additionally, we suggest Christian non‑conformity has two "levels:" We must be OUT of alignment with the world's values We must walk away from our own internal habits, desires and emotional patterns. Jesus modeled this non‑conformity through his kingdom‑focused life, and his disciples were called to leave behind their former identities and occupations to follow him. The result: a "new creation" Transformation in Christ cannot begin until non‑conformity has intentionally been chosen. 2 Corinthians 5:14–17 and Philippians 3:13–15 reveal that transformation involves seeing others—and even Christ himself—from a spiritual perspective rather than a fleshly one. The Greek word for “transform” (metamorphoō) indicates a complete change of form, illustrated by the transfiguration of Jesus and the believer's gradual change “from glory to glory” through the spirit. This transformation results in becoming a “new creation,” something entirely fresh and never before existing. This process is lifelong, requiring perseverance, repeated decisions and reliance on God's strength. Ultimately, transformation leads to receiving a “new name” and full acceptance by God, symbolized in Revelation 2:17. True discipleship is radical, intentional, and deeply rewarding, culminating in participation in God's future work of blessing all humanity. A Few Key Takeaways True transformation begins only after intentional non‑conformity to the world. Discipleship requires daily self‑denial, a renewed mindset and full engagement. Transformation is a gradual, spirit‑driven process that reshapes identity and purpose. True believers become a “new creation,” ultimately receiving God's full approval and a symbolic “new name.”

Philippians 2:12-14 | On this first Sunday of 2026 we get to hear from "the professor" as he teaches us how to read our Bibles for all they are worth. He will do this while simultaneously unpacking a historically "pointy" passage, wrought with all sorts of landmines. It just happens to be the next verse we encounter in our study of Philippians, chapter 2. So what does Paul mean -- and not mean -- when he writes "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling" and how can we live out this verse in the healthiest of ways.

✨Flourishing in 2026: The First Steps Matter... ✨We're only days into 2026, and today's episode reminds you of a powerful truth: how you begin a year shapes everything that follows.

We all crave comfort, but God calls us to be able. In Philippians 1, Paul shows us how chains became his pulpit and prison his platform for the gospel. Discover how your setbacks can become setups for God's glory when you check your chains, embrace your cell, and live ‘to live is Christ.

Join us as Jeff Behrens teaches through Philippians 4! Click Here for January's SOAP scripture reading plan! For more information about Fusion Church, visit us on the web or follow us on social media here!

Philippians 3:12-15. It's the first Sunday of the year and we're launching a new series called Fresh. In Philippians 3, Paul teaches us something vital for a new beginning: if we're going to move forward, we have to stop living backward. Forget what is behind, strain toward what's ahead, and press on toward the prize. If you're ready to release last year's mistakes (and even last year's successes), fix your eyes on Jesus, and chase a closer walk with Him in 2025, this is where it begins. Let's start the year fresh and run our race forward.For upcoming events and important announcements at Skyline, visit our Facebook page for the latest details!If you'd like to check out more resources, get to know Skyline Church, or donate to our ministry and missions please visit www.skylineofallon.com. Don't forget to leave us a review and subscribe to have our Sunday message downloaded straight to your phone each week!

As we enter into yet another year filled with many changes and many uncertainties, this message from a sermon on Philippians 1 examines what it means to have an unchanging foundation. Using such simple examples as Paul's experience of incarceration as backdrop, this message encourages and challenges us to examine carefully what it is we are placing our trust in, and to work toward having an unchanging foundation in Christ alone, Who is the only foundation that can withstand whatever comes throughout the year.Visit us: tulsabible.org

As we step into a new year, we're reminded that God doesn't operate by our calendar—He works in seasons. This message invites us to examine the spiritual safeguards that keep us on the journey God has designed for us. Drawing from Philippians 3, we're challenged to ask ourselves: What are we truly confident in? Not just intellectually, but with the kind of conviction that stands firm when circumstances shake us. The message presents ten practical safeguards that aren't meant to give us life—only Jesus does that—but they function like highway barriers, keeping us moving in the right direction. From putting God first and embracing kingdom culture, to honoring our marriages and speaking words of life, these safeguards touch every aspect of our existence. Perhaps most compelling is the call to live with eternity in mind while not taking ourselves too seriously—a beautiful tension that keeps us both purposeful and peaceful. The declaration at the end, proclaiming Christ's supremacy over all creation and authority, reminds us that these aren't just good habits but acts of spiritual warfare. When we declare who God is and who we are in Him, we're speaking into both the natural and spiritual realms, establishing the reality of His kingdom in our everyday lives.

Summary As a new year begins, Dr. Michael Easley reminds us how quickly we forget what matters most. Drawing from Philippians 4:8–9, he explains why repetition is not a weakness of the Christian life but a safeguard for spiritual growth. Paul's instruction to “write the same things again” reflects a reality we all share—we need continual reminders of truth. Dr. Easley shows that spiritual maturity begins with disciplined thinking. Paul calls believers to dwell intentionally on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and commendable. These virtues are not abstract ideals but categories that shape how we see the world and respond to it. What we allow into our minds eventually forms our character. But right thinking alone is not enough. Paul pairs dwelling with doing. Believers are called to practice what they have learned, received, heard, and seen. Learning is complete only when truth moves from information to understanding and finally to obedient action. This sermon challenges listeners to stop dwelling on past sins, future fears, or sinful desires, and instead focus intentionally on godly things. The promise is clear: when we think rightly and live faithfully, we experience not only the peace of God but the presence of the God of peace. Takeaways Repetition of biblical truth is essential because spiritual growth depends on continual reminders. What we choose to dwell on shapes our thoughts, actions, character, and destiny. Paul's list in Philippians 4:8 calls believers to focus intentionally on godly categories, not isolated moments. Learning is complete only when truth moves from information to understanding and then to action. Dwelling on sin, fear, or immorality robs believers of peace and spiritual clarity. When believers think rightly and practice faithfully, they experience both God's peace and God's presence. To read the book of Philippians, click here. Click here for other Michael Easley Sermons.

A new MP3 sermon from Founders Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Staying The Course Subtitle: Non Series - Philippians Speaker: Richard Caldwell Jr. Broadcaster: Founders Baptist Church Event: Sunday - AM Date: 1/4/2026 Bible: Philippians 3:12-16 Length: 58 min.

Write this down: Every Moment Matters: God is working until your final breath.Philippians 1:6I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.1. Who is 2 Cities Church 2. Discipleship matters 3. We are not a perfect church4. We're down but not out5. We're going to get better before we get bigger6. We're going to measure what truly mattersNext Steps: Believe: I need to be born again today.Become: I will surrender more of my life to Jesus this week. Be Sent: I will make a measurable impact on 2 Cities this week.Discussion Questions: Who is the church?  Describe in 1 sentence?Are we still a church without a building or a music set?Why does the church exist? Can it really be called a church if it doesn't impact earth or eternity?When you stand before God, what aspects of your life will he say were most important? (Use Scripture to explain your answer.)What would God consider the most important statistic to measure in a church?  Explain your answer. Pray for the Holy Spirit to help you make an impact this week. 

Hitting Your Spiritual Reset Button: New Challenge, New Plan For New Year January 4, 2026 Philippians 3:2-14 – “It's all about more Intimacy with Jesus” Philippians 3:2, 3 – True Relationships vs. zealous error of self-generated religious performance. Philippians 3:4-6 – Paul's “religious credentials”, “Pedigree” Philippians 3:7-9 – The righteous view of self-promotion, self-absorbed, outward achievement vs Romans 5:17 – The Gift! Philippians 3:10 – What am I “running after”; pursuing, reaching for? Knowing Him (personal intimacy) Power of resurrection life; victory over everything death deals Fellowship of His sufferings There is an intimacy with Jesus that comes through shared suffering! (i.e. fighting vs. sin, rejection, abandonment, betrayal, watching loved ones suffer; waiting on God to reveal) (i.e. having to wait on God to reveal to our loved ones what we already know would help, heal, restore, encourage, etc. [see Matthew 23:37; John 16:12]) Can't have resurrection without crucifixion! Conformed to His death: Connected, by faith, to the forgiveness, Grace, breaking of sin's power over us. (Romans 6:6, 7) Conformed to His death: By Faith we connect with His death which paid for and broke the power of everything that sin and satan broke, stole, destroyed! Through His death the debt of sin was paid and the legal power of sin (mine, yours) was broken! The benefits of His death were released to His sons and daughters (His heirs) by His resurrection and administered through His Holy Spirit! Philippians 3:12-14 – What am I Pressing For, Reaching/Running After? We must NOT BECOME SATISFIED with “MAINTAINING THE STATUS QUO”. WE MUST PRESS ON, REACH …. For a more intimate walk with Jesus! Forgive me, Lord, for staying content in my Relationship with You! PRESS: All out desires and corresponding actions (seek FIRST – Matthew 6:33) FORGETTING: Paul's successes, failures; Ours? Glance, not a gaze! (Acts 8, 9 vs. 2 Corinthians 11:12) God has chosen NOT to HOLD your sin in His remembrance (Hebrews 10:17) REACHING: Growing; aspiring for more Philippians 3:14 – The “Upward” call”: The promotion, favor, reward of humbling ourselves and walking in obedient Grace. John 8:31, 32; Romans 8:29 2 Corinthians 3:18

Happy New Year! Listen in as Pastor Alex starts our new sermon series 'Forward' over the book of Philippians!

How to handle trouble - Sunday, 4th January 2026.Romans 8:28-29 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:1. God is in Your Troubles.2. God is doing something good in Your Troubles.3. God is doing something good for you and others in your troubles, perhaps many others.

Written from a prison cell, Paul's letter to the Philippians reveals a joy that isn't rooted in comfort, control, or circumstances, but in belonging to Jesus and partnering with His people. As the new year begins, we're invited to re-center our lives around Christ, trust the God who finishes what He starts, and discover a joy that grows through grace-filled community.Catch the sermon on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or  bridge.tv/sermons.To support this ministry and help us continue our God given mission, click here: http://bit.ly/2NZkdrC Support the show

We all want a new year to feel different.But most change doesn't fail because of a lack of desire.It fails because of a lack of positioning.Jesus didn't say try harder.He said draw nearer.Fasting isn't about punishment.It's about clarity.It's not about what you give up. It's about what you make room for.This year doesn't begin with louder goals.It begins with healthier habits.With prayer.With surrender.With leaning into God at your inflection point.Some breakthroughs don't come from effort.They come from alignment.This is my year because this is my posture.Not a diet. Not a trend.A posture of surrender.Who's fasting something this week?Main Scripture: Luke 2:11-20; Philippians 2:3; Proverbs 4:20-22; Genesis 12:1-4; Nehemiah 8:10; John 3:16Topic: Bible Teaching, Bible Study, Christian Leadership, Kingdom Builders, Living on a Mission, Use Your Gifts, Serve God, Pray Give Serve, Faith ForwardSupport the show ------------------------------------------WANT MORE?Say You Love Me 1: Building Healthy RelationshipsToxic 1: What are Toxic Thoughts? Things Jesus Never Said 1: Is Loving Money Bad? Bondage Breaker 1: Tormented by your past? ------------------------------------------ JOIN US!Visit us at www.FusionChurchNY.com for the most up-to-date in-person service times and events. Join a Small Group.------------------------------------------FOLLOW US!Make sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, and Tiktok.

Resolutions fade fast, but desire for a deeper, steadier joy never goes away. We open a 13-week journey through Philippians by asking a bold question: what if joy doesn't wait for better circumstances, but is formed within us as we live with perspective, purpose, and presence? Paul writes the happiest letter in the Bible while chained to a Roman guard, staring down an uncertain future. His courage reframes how we approach goals, habits, and setbacks, and it gives us a practical path to live today like it actually matters.You'll hear the unlikely origin story of the Philippian church and why that diverse beginning still speaks to modern communities. You'll also see how Paul's defiant joy is not denial; it's a resilient posture that resists quitting. As we set the stage for a slow, verse-by-verse study, we invite you to align your days with what matters most and discover that joy isn't found in what happens to you but formed in what God is doing within you.Support the showMade a decision to follow Jesus? We want to know about it! Fill out our connect card here: https://local.churchcenter.com/people/forms/115766Thank you for your generosity. For information on how to give, visit https://localvineyard.church/give.

Matt Ng • Philippians 3:12–4:1 • Crossroads

We all live with soundtracks, those thoughts that play on repeat in our minds and shape the way we live. Too often, those soundtracks are filled with worry, lies, or fear. But God invites us to retire those broken soundtracks, replace them with His truth, and repeat His promises until they reshape who we become. In this series, we'll think about what we think about and discover how God gives us tools to think differently, live differently, and walk in His peace. This message kicks off the Soundtracks series by exploring how the recurring thoughts in our minds shape the way we live. Focusing on the soundtrack of worry, Jesus invites us to trade anxiety for trust and to let His peace rule our hearts. We're challenged to recognize our worry loops and allow Christ's presence—not fear—to shape our thoughts and lives. Passage: Colossians 3:15; Luke 10:38-42; Philippians 4:7 Speaker: Kevin Stiles

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

In this message, Bishop Walker teaches according to Philippians 4:11; Hebrews 13:5-6. Visit our website https://www.aplaceofrefugechurch.org Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@aplaceofrefugechurch  Also enjoy these powerful podcasts: The Way 2 Go Podcast - https://goo.gl/xmctVQ Making People Productive Podcast - https://goo.gl/R53KGa The L.I.F.E. Podcast - https://tinyurl.com/4t2vapjb

Decisions are like dominos. And here we are—2026—standing in front of the next domino.In this message, Lead Pastor Jamie Nunnally shares how your life hasn't been shaped by big moments as much as by little choices. This message is called "Last Year's Choices." This isn't to give you a hard time about what you did last year—we all made good decisions and bad decisions in 2025. This is to help you understand how you got where you are and how to use the domino effect for your good.Our current lives are the sum total of our decisions. Some choices were intentional, some reactive, some made under pressure, and some dominoes were knocked over by others. I'm not saying you chose everything that happened to you, but you did choose how you responded."We are all born looking like our parents, but we all die looking like our decisions."If decisions brought us here, decisions can take us somewhere new.Where you are didn't happen all at once. It happened one choice at a time, one habit at a time, one reaction at a time. Last year's choices produced this year's realities, and this year's choices will produce next year's reality.You really do have a choice.Deuteronomy 30:19 reminds us God sets life and death before us and calls us to choose. You can't control your upbringing or circumstances, but you do control your decisions. You can't rewrite yesterday, but you can redirect today.When it comes to decisions, your default is not good.Joshua 24:15 shows that if we don't choose God, we don't choose nothing—we choose what's familiar. If you don't choose what's godly, you'll choose what's comfortable.You are good at making bad choices.Jeremiah 17:9 says the human heart is deceitful. Your heart doesn't just feel; it steers. That's why Proverbs 4:23 says to guard your heart, because it determines the course of your life. Good intentions don't stop bad decisions—good decisions do.Your choices begin as thoughts.James 1:15 shows how desire becomes action. A thought isn't a sin, but when desire meets decision, it produces direction. Philippians 4 reminds us to think on what is true and right, then put it into practice. Your thoughts are practice for your actions.Your choices are not private.Every decision affects someone. Numbers 32:23 reminds us what we repeat privately becomes who we are publicly. Personal choices become public patterns.Today is next year's "last year." You can start now.Is the domino effect working for you—or against you?

We learn in the book of Habakkuk that God's promises require patience, that everything comes back to faith, and that joy can transcend our circumstances. When everything is stripped away in your life and God doesn't fix your difficulties, will He still be enough? Let's listen in…LINKS + RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:• Find a free study guide, show notes, & complete transcript here• Scripture References: Habakkuk chapter 2, verses 2-4 & chapter 3, verses 17-19; Genesis 18, verse 14; Isaiah 6, verse 8; 1 Kings 18, verse 21; Joshua 24, verse 15; Matthew 16, verse 15; Luke 6, verse 46; John 21, verses 15–17; Mark 8, verse 36; Lamentations 3, verses 25-26; Romans 1, verse 17; Galatians 3, verse 11; Hebrews 10, verse 38; Philippians 4, verses 10-13; Psalm 73, verses 25-26; Isaiah 40, verses 30-31• Find out more about Covenant Church at ⁠covenantexperience.com

Click here to WATCH LIVE STREAM Worship Service on our Youtube Channel. Prayers for a New Year, Part 2 Numbers 6:22-27 Numbers 6:22-27 The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 23 “Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, Thus you shall bless the people of Israel: you shall say to them, 24 The LORD bless you and keep you; 25 the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; 26 the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. 27 “So shall they put my name upon the people of Israel, and I will bless them.” 1. We pray with expectant hope for God's Blessing Genesis 1:26-30 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” 27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. 28 And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” 29 And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food. 30 And to every beast of the earth and to every bird of the heavens and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food.” And it was so. Genesis 12:1-3 Now the LORD said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. 2 And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” Ephesians 3:20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, Luke 24:50 And he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them Numbers 6-22-23 The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 23 “Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, Thus you shall bless the people of Israel: you shall say to them,… Numbers 6:27 “So shall they put my name upon the people of Israel, and I will bless them.” 1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Revelation 1:6 and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. 2.We pray with expectant hope for God's Protection Numbers 6:24 The LORD bless you and keep you; Psalm 121:3-8 He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. 4 Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade on your right hand. 6 The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. 8 The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore. Psalm 23:2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. John 17:12 and 15 While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled… 15 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. 3.We pray expectant hope for God's Graciousness Numbers 6:25 the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; Leviticus 26:3-12 “If you walk in my statutes and observe my commandments and do them, 4 then I will give you your rains in their season, and the land shall yield its increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit. 5 Your threshing shall last to the time of the grape harvest, and the grape harvest shall last to the time for sowing. And you shall eat your bread to the full and dwell in your land securely. 6 I will give peace in the land, and you shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid. And I will remove harmful beasts from the land, and the sword shall not go through your land. 7 You shall chase your enemies, and they shall fall before you by the sword. 8 Five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall chase ten thousand, and your enemies shall fall before you by the sword. 9 I will turn to you and make you fruitful and multiply you and will confirm my covenant with you. 10 You shall eat old store long kept, and you shall clear out the old to make way for the new. 11 I will make my dwelling[a] among you, and my soul shall not abhor you. 12 And I will walk among you and will be your God, and you shall be my people.” Ephesians 2:4-5 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. James 4:6 But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 4. We pray with expectant hope for God's Peace Numbers 6:26 the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Romans 5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. John 14:27 “ Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” Philippians 4:6-7 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Respond | Connect | Next Steps The post Prayers for a New Year 2 appeared first on Charleston Baptist Church.