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Raymond Grace Returns: Breaking the "Biblical Curse," Healing Past with Mind Blowing Results, Dowsing & Clearing Entities Host Kara Goodwin welcomes Raymon Grace back to Soul Elevation (tune into his first amazing episode, # 545) to discuss his decades of powerful work with dowsing and energy techniques. Raymon describes what he calls a biblical curse on women and shares results that indicate he broke the curse, with many women in his classes reporting feeling more empowered since that time. He shares a mind blowing account of going back in time to stop abuse, in a case where a woman's chronic pain and scars from childhood burns disappeared after his intervention, and a group exercise where women reported no longer remembering abuse. They also discuss water memory and a shared detox reaction he and another man experienced after clearing negative memory from their bodies' water. Kara shares how powerful she and her friends have found Raymon's protocols for influencing weather, and their real world results from using them. Raymon shares his definition of possession as negative entities affecting behavior, along with simple exorcism and emotional-clearing methods for schools and other places. Raymon's first episode: https://www.soulelevationpodcast.com/raymon-grace Connect with Raymon: https://www.raymongrace.us/ https://www.raymongracefoundation.org Subscribe so you don't miss any of the powerful episodes of Soul Elevation: https://www.youtube.com/@soulelevationpodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Listen or Apple or Spotify: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/soul-elevation-guiding-your-ascension-to-new-heights/id1442136034 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Rld3E6a4hWwySD73aBkbe?si=89d00821258844b3
This is a Grave Talks CLASSIC EPISODE! PART TWOCan an object hold onto something long after it was created? Not just energy—but intention. Ritual. Something that was meant to be there.For Heather Lynn, those questions aren't theoretical. Through her work studying the intersection of archaeology and the occult, she's explored how ancient cultures didn't just fear unseen forces—they actively worked with them, sometimes binding them to objects meant to last far beyond a single lifetime.From burial sites to everyday items, there are cases where something seems to remain—something aware, something attached, and not easily separated from the physical world.Are these stories shaped by belief… or are there instances where the object itself becomes the vessel?As accounts of cursed artifacts and modern attachments continue to surface, the line between history and something far more unsettling begins to blur—and raises a question that's hard to ignore: if something was invited in… did it ever truly leave?#TheGraveTalks #CursedObjects #HauntedArtifacts #ParanormalPodcast #OccultHistory #DemonicArtifacts #HauntedItems #AncientMysteries #ParanormalResearch #SupernaturalEvidenceLove real ghost stories? Don't just listen—join us on YouTube and be part of the largest community of real paranormal encounters anywhere. Subscribe now and never miss a chilling new story:
This is a Grave Talks CLASSIC EPISODE!Can an object hold onto something long after it was created? Not just energy—but intention. Ritual. Something that was meant to be there.For Heather Lynn, those questions aren't theoretical. Through her work studying the intersection of archaeology and the occult, she's explored how ancient cultures didn't just fear unseen forces—they actively worked with them, sometimes binding them to objects meant to last far beyond a single lifetime.From burial sites to everyday items, there are cases where something seems to remain—something aware, something attached, and not easily separated from the physical world.Are these stories shaped by belief… or are there instances where the object itself becomes the vessel?As accounts of cursed artifacts and modern attachments continue to surface, the line between history and something far more unsettling begins to blur—and raises a question that's hard to ignore: if something was invited in… did it ever truly leave?#TheGraveTalks #CursedObjects #HauntedArtifacts #ParanormalPodcast #OccultHistory #DemonicArtifacts #HauntedItems #AncientMysteries #ParanormalResearch #SupernaturalEvidenceLove real ghost stories? Don't just listen—join us on YouTube and be part of the largest community of real paranormal encounters anywhere. Subscribe now and never miss a chilling new story:
Every week, members of The Gospel Project for Kids team offer guidance to help you as you prepare to teach each session to preschoolers and kids. This week, we discuss Unit 24, Session 5—Jesus Taught about Possessions.
In today's lesson from Romans, Paul tells us that "in one body we have many members, and not all the member have the same function..." . Pastor Jonathan explains that Paul understood the meaning on living in community, and contributing our talents and time to help restore the world in grace and peace.
In this episode, Josh and Catie bicker in front of her parents. Debby is shocked by Mido's surprise decision. Mallorie goes wedding dress shopping. Ashia comes clean to her sisters. Marissa feels the pressure of a ticking clock. Paula tries to make amends.If you like the show Consider supporting us Click the links below! Join our livestreams on Twitch https://www.twitch.tv/420dayfiance Join our Discord server https://discord.gg/pr6wE9sK64 Gain access to The Vault and more https://open.acast.com/public/patreon/fanSubscribe/6354533 Buy our merch! https://www.420dayfiance.com/merch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jesus meets a young man who is eager to gain eternal life, but he walks away sad because he is hampered by his many possessions. (Lectionary #419) August 17, 2026 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com
University of Washington assistant coach and longtime NBA coach Charles Klask joins Slappin' Glass for a detailed conversation on building structure underneath a free-flowing offense, defining offensive priorities, using analytics to shape behavior, and teaching switching defense.Klask breaks down how to identify your best decision-makers, build an offensive hierarchy around player strengths, and create what he calls “rich possessions” by involving your “rulers” while attacking the opponent's “rusty defenders.” He also discusses retriggering offense after the initial action, short-roll spacing and passing solutions, shot-selection priorities, offensive rebounding, tagging up, and balancing freedom with clearly defined rules.In Start, Sub, or Sit, Klask dives into coaching development and the importance of asking better questions, organizing and grading film, and taking effective notes. The conversation then shifts to switching defense, including physicality at the point of the screen, KYP decisions, defending slips, shrink responsibilities, and using switching as a disruptive weapon rather than simply an emergency solution.What You'll LearnHow to build structure underneath a random, conceptual offenseIdentifying “rulers,” attacking “rusty defenders,” and creating rich possessionsUsing player strengths to determine offensive roles and decision-making freedomOffensive analytics, shot hierarchy, offensive rebounding, and tagging-up principlesWhy asking better questions can improve both player learning and coaching developmentTeaching switching defense through physicality, KYP, screen navigation, and disruptionTo join coaches and championship winning staffs from the NBA to High School from over 70 different countries taking advantage of an SG Plus membership, visit HERE!
Jesus Is the Only Door to Your Eternal Life, But Jesus Has Given You the Key – His Gospel MESSAGE SUMMARY: From the Gospel of Luke “Life's Possessions and Wealth” A Yale Pediatric Oncologist's (A Window to Heaven: When Children See Life and Death) experienced a life transformation from being an Atheist to an Agnostic and then becoming a Christian because of her involvement with the death and near-death experiences of young children with cancer. These children had no predisposed reason to understand God or Heaven; however, their verbalized near-death experiences are compelling. In Luke 13:22-30, Jesus gives us a glimpse of Heaven because He does not want us to miss out on Paradise. Are you going to be saved? Before presenting His Parable of the Narrow Door, Jesus sets up this Parable in Luke 13:24: “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.". in John 10:7-9, Jesus tells us that He is the door: “So Jesus again said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.". Also, Jesus paints the picture, in Luke 13:24, of a feast in Paradise: “And people will come from east and west, and from north and south, and recline at table in the kingdom of God.”. In this Parable in Luke 13:25, Jesus expresses how difficult it will be to get into Heaven: “When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,' then he will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.'". After the door is inaccessible, Jesus tells us in Luke 13:27: “But he will say, ‘I tell you, I do not know where you come from. Depart from me, all you workers of evil!'". Knowing God personally and His Grace, through Jesus on the cross and Jesus' Resurrection, is what enables us to have eternal life – Jesus the Christ is the door, as Jesus tells us in John 14:6 that He is the only way to eternal life: “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'". Eternal life is offered to us through God's grace, but we can only receive eternal life through our personal faith and our knowing God through a personal relationship with Him. TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Luke 13:22-30; Luke 23:43; Revelation 2:7; John 3:16; John 10:7-9; John 17:3; Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:6; Psalms 22b:17-31. SCRIPTURE REFERENCE SEARCH: www.AWFTL.org/bible-search/ A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Jesus Followers Should Fear, Respect, and Praise God's Power, Sovereignty, and Holiness; but in Life's Trials They Should “fear not for I {Jesus} am with you always””: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
We look at the command to sell all you have in Luke 12:33
We look at the command to sell all you have in Luke 12:33
What do we possess in Christ, and how should those blessings shape the way we live? In Our Possessions in Christ, we turn to 2 Corinthians 5:6–15, where Paul writes about walking by faith, living with courage, seeking to please the Lord, and remembering that we will each stand before Christ. Above all, the love of Christ changes the purpose of our lives: because He died for us, we no longer live simply for ourselves, but for Him. Listen in.
When the Torah warns us in Parshat Eikev about forgetting God due to arrogance, it pinpoints the exact root of that pride: accumulating great wealth and concluding, " כֹּחִי וְעֹצֶם יָדִי עָשָׂה לִי אֶת הַחַיל הַזֶּה " ("My strength and the power of my hand made me this chayil "). What does chayil mean here? Ramban explains that chayil refers to war (as in Chaylei Tzahal , the Israel Defense Forces). Under this interpretation, the verse describes someone boasting, "My success in battle was achieved through my own strength." Instead, the Torah instructs us to remember: " כִּי ה' אֱלֹהֶיךָ הוּא הַנֹּתֵן לְךָ כֹּחַ לַעֲשׂוֹת חָיִל " ("It is Hashem your God who gives you the strength to achieve military victory"). Ramban notes that while Jewish soldiers are capable and powerful fighters, they must recognize that their strength originates from God to avoid falling into arrogance. This illustrates a vital principle: although we must put in our hishtadlut (practical effort)—and we may execute it skillfully enough to veil the underlying divine intervention—we must always remember that the success remains a miracle. A striking example of hishtadlut and victory comes from modern history: the famous raid on Entebbe. Operation Entebbe (Operation Yonatan) On the night of July 3–4, 1976, the IDF executed Operation Thunderbolt, a daring commando mission that rescued 102 hostages held at Entebbe International Airport in Uganda. The crisis began when an Air France flight from Tel Aviv to Paris was hijacked by Palestinian and German terrorists and diverted to Uganda. The hijackers separated the Israeli and Jewish passengers from the rest, holding over 100 captives while demanding the release of imprisoned militants. Idi Amin's Israeli Connection Uganda's dictator, Idi Amin, welcomed the hijackers and deployed Ugandan troops to assist them. Ironically, Amin had close historical ties to Israel: Military Training: In the 1960s, Amin underwent officer and paratrooper training in Israel under IDF instructors. Israeli Contacts: During the crisis, Israeli officials attempted to leverage Amin's personal friendship with retired IDF Colonel Baruch "Burka" Bar-Lev, who phoned Amin repeatedly to negotiate the release of the hostages. However, Amin used the situation for international posturing and refused to free the captives. The Mercedes-Benz Decoy Strategy Because Entebbe was over 2,500 miles (4,000 km) from Israel, surprise was critical to prevent guards and hijackers from killing the hostages before commandos could reach the terminal. The Scheme: Israeli intelligence knew Idi Amin frequently visited the airport in a black Mercedes-Benz 600 escorted by Land Rovers. The Execution: The assault team, led by Lt. Col. Yonatan Netanyahu (older brother of Benjamin Netanyahu), loaded a black Mercedes styled to mimic Amin's official vehicle into the lead C-130 transport plane. The Assault: Upon landing under cover of darkness, the commandos drove the Mercedes and Land Rovers directly toward the terminal. The ruse bought precious time, allowing the assault force to approach the building before Ugandan guards realized what was happening. The Outcome Hostages Rescued: 102 of 106 hostages were safely evacuated. Enemy Casualties: All seven hijackers and approximately 45 Ugandan soldiers were killed. Three hostages died in the crossfire during the raid, and a fourth (Dora Bloch) was later murdered in a Ugandan hospital on Amin's orders. IDF Losses: Lt. Col. Yonatan Netanyahu was the sole Israeli military fatality. Tactical Impact: Commandos destroyed several Ugandan MiG fighter jets on the tarmac to prevent pursuit during takeoff. This 53-minute ground raid remains one of the most famous special operations in modern military history. Despite the tragic loss of Yonatan Netanyahu, the operation was celebrated as a monumental victory. I recall a student arriving at my elementary school the following week wearing a T-shirt featuring Idi Amin saluting, captioned: Kol Hakavod leTzahal ("All respect to the Israeli Army"). While the IDF displayed extraordinary bravery, preparation, and skill, we must keep the ultimate source of success in mind: " כִּי הוּא הַנֹּתֵן לְךָ כֹּחַ לַעֲשׂוֹת חָיִל " ("For it is He who gives you the strength to achieve success"). Therefore, the ultimate praise belongs to God: Kol Hakavod laHashem . As the verse states, " לִכְבוֹדִי בְּרָאתִיו " ("I created it for My glory")—the world was created so that we might recognize and reflect God's honor. We say " בָּרוּךְ כְּבוֹד ה' מִמְּקוֹמוֹ " ("Blessed is the glory of Hashem from His place") and " בָּרוּךְ שֵׁם כְּבוֹד מַלְכוּתוֹ לְעוֹלָם וָעֶד " ("Blessed be the name of His glorious kingdom forever and ever"). Ultimately, all honor for our achievements returns to Him. That is the first explanation of chayil . A second explanation defines chayil as the amassing of financial wealth. When someone builds a fortune, they often attribute it entirely to their own acumen, leading to pride. Notice what Targum Onkelos says on " כִּי הוּא הַנֹּתֵן לְךָ כֹּחַ לַעֲשׂוֹת חָיִל ": God does not merely give you physical energy to go to work; " הוּא יָהֵב לָךְ עֵצָה לְמִקְנֵי נִכְסִין "—He gives you the ideas and insight to acquire property. You might think your business success stems from your brilliant choice of strategy, brand, or market entry, but those insights originate with God. As the verse teaches: " רַבּוֹת מַחֲשָׁבוֹת בְּלֶב אִישׁ וַעֲצַת ה' הִיא תָקוּם " ("There are many thoughts in a man's heart, but it is Hashem's counsel that stands"). The good decisions that yield your success are ultimately God's ideas brought to fruition. It is human nature to point fingers at areas that do not apply to us directly. As a rabbi who neither runs a corporate enterprise nor serves as a frontline soldier, I could easily look at businessmen and warriors and say, "What is wrong with you? Don't you realize God gives you your strength and wealth?" It is easy to lecture others on spiritual flaws when we aren't tested in those same areas. (Brief pause due to an emergency call—returning to the topic now.) Why do we find it so easy to judge others when we have no skin in the game? There is a well-known parable about a man applying to join the Communist Party. The interviewer asks: "If you had two houses, would you give one to Mother Russia?" "Of course!" he replies. "If you had two cars, would you give one?" "Without hesitation!" "If you had two coats, would you give one?" "No way." "Why not?" asks the interviewer. "Because I actually have two coats!" In theory, loyalty is effortless. When an obligation touches our actual possessions or lifestyle, our perspective shifts. So it is easy for an observer to ask why soldiers or entrepreneurs do not attribute their success to God. However, self-examination requires looking deeper. The prophet Yirmiyahu identifies three distinct areas where people take self-righteous pride (a passage read on Tisha B'Av, a day centered on the consequences of forgetting God): " אַל יִתְהַלֵּל חָכָם בְּחָכְמָתוֹ וְאַל יִתְהַלֵּל הַגִּבּוֹר בִּגְבוּרָתוֹ אַל יִתְהַלֵּל עָשִׁיר בְּעָשְׁרוֹ " ("Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, nor the mighty man in his might, nor the rich man in his riches"). Instead, " כִּי אִם בְּזֹאת יִתְהַלֵּל הַמִּתְהַלֵּל הַשְׂכֵּל וְיָדֹעַ אוֹתִי " ("Let him who glories glory in this: that he understands and knows Me"). What did we personally construct to earn that glory? Our Sages teach: " הַכֹּל בִּידֵי שָׁמַיִם חוּץ מִיִּרְאַת שָׁמַיִם " ("Everything is in the hands of Heaven except the fear of Heaven"). As the verse states, " מָה ה' אֱלֹהֶיךָ שֹׁאֵל מֵעִמָּךְ כִּי אִם לְיִרְאָה " ("What does Hashem your God ask of you, except to fear Him"). When you close a profitable deal, recover your health, or arrive at a brilliant insight in Torah study, that clarity originates from God. Does this mean we carry no moral accountability for our actions? Of course not. God provides human beings with energy and mental capacity, but our moral choices remain entirely ours. God grants us the physical ability to speak, but whether we choose to speak Lashon Hara (derogatory speech) or refrain from it is our own moral decision. God does not compel us to sin. To understand human temptation on a deeper level: prior to Adam's sin, evil was entirely external to humanity (represented by the serpent outside of man). After the sin, evil became internalized within the human psyche. When an internal voice prompts someone to speak Lashon Hara , that voice is not divine inspiration; it is the internalized influence of the serpent ( Yetzer Hara ). God created those opposing forces to preserve free choice. We cannot blame God for our wrongdoing—we chose to listen to the temptation rather than to God's command. Divine inspiration grants us the constructive ideas for success, strength, and financial breakthrough; moral choice determines whether we obey God's laws. These three arenas of pride are visible even in early childhood. I once walked with my first-grade grandson and asked him, "What makes a kid cool in school?" He listed three traits: Athletic ability: Being good at sports. Possessions: Having cool gear (like bringing the best basketball to the playground). Academics: Getting top marks on tests. Even in elementary school, the baseline metrics of social prestige mirror the biblical categories: Sports capability represents Gibbor (strength). Possessions represent Ashir (wealth). High test scores represent Chacham (wisdom). Every individual—whether a business executive, a rabbi, or a stay-at-home parent—must recognize that achievements in these areas stem from God. The central spiritual struggle is internalizing this truth to prevent arrogance. When it comes to finance, cause and effect do not always operate linearly. Effort invested in one area often yields results from an unexpected direction. Consider the well-known story of yeshiva students who spent a day soliciting donations and returned empty-handed. The next morning, the Rosh Yeshiva thanked them for their hard work. They protested, "Why are you thanking us? We brought in no money." The Rosh Yeshiva replied, "An anonymous donor just walked in and gave a massive contribution. That happened because of the effort you put in yesterday." Your dedicated effort ( hishtadlut ) triggers divine reward, though often through channels you never anticipated. This explains the Talmudic maxim: " יָגַעְתָּ וּמָצָאתָ תַּאֲמִין " ("If a person says, 'I have toiled and I have found,' believe him"). Why does the Sages' phrase use the word "found" ( matzata ) rather than "produced" or "earned"? Because even after rigorous toil, the ultimate success arrives like a metzia (a lost object found unexpectedly). There is no automatic, mechanical correlation between our input and the output—especially in financial matters. While we easily understand this dynamic in business, how does it apply to wisdom ( Chacham ) and physical strength ( Gibbor )? When someone studies a complex topic and masters it, or adheres to a workout regimen and gets fit, they naturally feel a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Next, we will explore the challenges of strength and wisdom, and how we can avoid arrogance when taking pride in those accomplishments.
57. The Abundance of Possessions (Luke 12:13-21) 8.2.26 by Church in the Square (Sermon Audio)
Pastor Blake Burrough unpacks Matthew 6:19-24, where Jesus gives one of His most direct and challenging commands: do not store up treasures on earth. This sermon invites us to examine our hearts in light of Christ. Jesus reveals that what we do with our money reflects what we truly treasure, calling us to find our greatest joy and security in Him rather than in earthly possessions. As we consider the lens through which we see the world, we are challenged to see money not as our master, but as a tool for advancing God's kingdom. This message is an invitation to fix our eyes on Jesus and discover the lasting treasure found in Him alone.
Sermon # 3 in the series "Kingdom Substitutes"
The weekly sermon from Pastor Steve Rief, at Evergreen Community Church in Redland, Oregon.
Lead Pastor Jed Coppenger continues the series titled "Proverbs: Walking in Wisdom." This Sunday, Pastor Jed is teaching from several passages in Proverbs, on How to Handle Money and Possessions Wisely. To learn more about FBC Cumming, find us online at www.fbccumming.org, on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/FirstBaptistCumming, or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/fbccumming/.
The dust has officially settled, the confetti has been swept away from the MetLife Stadium, and after a month of unparalleled drama, late-night shocks, and unforgettable system battles, the 2026 World Cup has crowned a new champion. Spain stands on top of the world, records have been entirely shattered, and the ultimate 50-episode daily marathon has reached its grand finish line.Welcome to the golden Episode 50 of World Cup Daily! To celebrate hitting the half-century milestone, the ultimate panel—Grandpapa Mac Chris, John, and Nathan—reunites one final time for the definitive tournament post-mortem. We look back at the chaotic logistics, hand out our official tournament awards, debate the future of rule changes, and evaluate if anyone on Earth can catch Spain at the 2026 tournament's next chapter in 2030.⏱️ MID-SHOW HYDRATION BREAK
What is obstructing your ability to recognize God? Touré Roberts takes us into Isaiah's encounter with God — a moment that only became possible when earthly structures shook. Isaiah's breakthrough reveals the real issue: There was a gap between what he understood about God and what he was actually saying. His vision didn't match his words. This disconnect is exactly what revival addresses. Revival takes place when the church recognizes what it gradually forgot: The gospel of the kingdom is bigger than our preferences, our security, and our comfort. The solution? Full integration. When your eyes, heart, lips, and actions all align with God's kingdom, everything shifts. You recognize the fullness of His grace and power. That alignment can change the atmosphere around you. But before integration happens, something has to move. What are you leaning on? Success? Comfort? Relationships? Possessions? These false dependencies obstruct your view of God. They keep you from recognizing Him. But when your hunger for God is greater than your hunger for anything else, revival flows through you. Message: “You Better Recognize” Scripture: Isaiah 6:1-8 and 2 Peter 1:2-3 (NKJV) Speaker: Touré Roberts Date: July 19, 2026 ✨ Welcome to Your Moment of Transformation You don't have to walk this journey alone. Let Jesus guide your steps and fill your life with purpose and peace.
What is obstructing your ability to recognize God? Touré Roberts takes us into Isaiah's encounter with God — a moment that only became possible when earthly structures shook. Isaiah's breakthrough reveals the real issue: There was a gap between what he understood about God and what he was actually saying. His vision didn't match his words. This disconnect is exactly what revival addresses. Revival takes place when the church recognizes what it gradually forgot: The gospel of the kingdom is bigger than our preferences, our security, and our comfort. The solution? Full integration. When your eyes, heart, lips, and actions all align with God's kingdom, everything shifts. You recognize the fullness of His grace and power. That alignment can change the atmosphere around you. But before integration happens, something has to move. What are you leaning on? Success? Comfort? Relationships? Possessions? These false dependencies obstruct your view of God. They keep you from recognizing Him. But when your hunger for God is greater than your hunger for anything else, revival flows through you. Message: “You Better Recognize” Scripture: Isaiah 6:1-8 and 2 Peter 1:2-3 (NKJV) Speaker: Touré Roberts Date: July 19, 2026 ✨ Welcome to Your Moment of Transformation You don't have to walk this journey alone. Let Jesus guide your steps and fill your life with purpose and peace.
What does it look like to live a life that truly matters?The book of Ecclesiastes takes an honest look at life “under the sun” and exposes the emptiness of chasing pleasure, success, wealth and control.In this 10-week series, we'll wrestle with life's biggest questions: Why does life feel so fleeting? Why do our efforts fall short? Is there anything that actually lasts?As we walk through Ecclesiastes, we'll discover that while everything in this world is temporary, a life rooted in fearing God and trusting Him is never wasted.In a vapor-like world, God shows us what it means to live for what truly lasts.This message, PLEASURE & POSSESSIONS DON'T SATISFY, comes out of Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 & 5:10-20.Website: http://www.rittmangrace.orgFacebook: Rittman Grace Brethren Church Instagram: rittmangrace Twitter: RittmanGraceYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaXPiaa4z3iZMA4DkCihtHg TikTok: rittmangbc
Send us Fan MailOn today's PoM podcast we continue our walk through the book of James and asking the question, "Do I use my possessions ever for the benefit of others." It is not wrong to have stuff, even a lot of stuff. But when we develop a hoarding mindset where what we have builds our kingdom but doesn't advance God's, then we have a problem. Learn more about The Pursuit of Manliness: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/ Join The Herd: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/join-the-herdRegister for our 2026 Fall Men's Retreat: https://www.thepursuitofmanliness.com/gear/p/2026-mens-retreatSupport the show
Official Emailtalkinwithtopher@gmail.comCryptid and Kinhttps://cryptidandkin.com/(instagram) https://www.instagram.com/cryptidandkin/?hl=en=(YouTube) www.youtube.com/@CryptidAndKinTopher's The Mail Box Guys(facebook) https://www.facebook.com/share/1C6cbtm8eA/(instagram) https://www.instagram.com/the_mailbox_guys/?hl=enSocial Media(linktr.ee) https://linktr.ee/talkinwithtopher(instagram) https://www.instagram.com/talkinwithtopher/?hl=en(twitter) https://twitter.com/_conderman(snap chat) https://www.snapchat.com/add/cconderman?share_id=HiV14moKPns&locale=en-US(tik tok) https://www.tiktok.com/@talkinwithtopher?lang=en(Facebook) https://www.facebook.com/christopher.condermanTime Stamps(00:00:00) Start(00:01:29) Giving up our possessions(00:05:02) Israel is still the worst(00:12:10) what Bibi really thinks(00:14:39) my thoughts on the voting system(00:20:12) The Havana agreement(00:22:03) IDF veteran exposing Israel(00:29:07) HAARP is no longer a conspiracy(00:32:54) HAARPs largest machine is in the USA(00:38:59) could zombies be real and set off by 6G(00:45:57) The deadliest flu out break(00:53:43) Phantom time hypothesis(01:01:35) The voice of GOD has been Created(01:06:28) Erase the State(01:14:39) Finding Jesus after 13 yrs(01:18:23) German Olof on Blue light(01:25:39) Plants can breath(01:29:14) Oliver Tree will be missed(01:33:54) AI Claude tells us how it feels(01:40:38) COKE will not let you type JESUS(01:43:51) its a sign of Jesus(01:45:59) Heinze ketchup has bioengineered corn(01:49:40) why is copper is disappearingEpisode Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/reel/DZtc3TnAptb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1D1Jzx7pnU/https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1EU99sPmqA/https://www.facebook.com/share/r/18exmQLr9D/https://www.facebook.com/share/r/18vT7s9ztm/https://x.com/DailyNewsIran/status/2070580316377653647?s=20https://x.com/PaulGoldEagle/status/2072054221629972715?s=20https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1EGM1d9SmU/https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1AVDz7MeTR/https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CsChDtRPM/https://www.facebook.com/share/r/18yfDuaGxc/https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14kmgzzSPkA/https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1HwrvJWZcd/https://www.facebook.com/share/r/196tpGDXEg/https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Co6BmAviK/https://youtube.com/shorts/BVWDuBNb3aI?si=o8TPhLkCajGWdX_phttps://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BHuqfYRdj/https://www.facebook.com/share/r/185xxDK2nZ/https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1EhY9faYRN/https://www.facebook.com/share/r/14eUUaYhBhg/https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1LRB7xjdYH/
Welcome to The Daily. Read more about our mission to teach every verse of the bible in what we call Project23. Grab your Hosea Scripture Journal. Our text today is Hosea 9:5-6: What will you do on the day of the appointed festival, and on the day of the feast of the Lord? For behold, they are going away from destruction; but Egypt shall gather them; Memphis shall bury them. Nettles shall possess their precious things of silver; thorns shall be in their tents. — Hosea 9:5-6 What if everything about your worship looks right, but God isn't in it? Hosea asks a probing question: "What will you do on the day of the appointed festival?" In other words, what happens when your worship gatherings continue, but God no longer accepts them? Israel had it all. Feasts. Rhythms. Sacred days. They showed up, went through the motions, and kept the system running. But God was gone from it. He had been gone a long time. Their worship had become routine without relationship. God makes it clear: when judgment comes, none of it will help. Their religious gatherings won't save them. Their religious celebrations won't protect them. Their religious habits won't carry them through what's coming. That's the warning. Everyone knows you can stand in a room full of worship and still be far from God. You can sing loudly, listen weekly, serve consistently, and never actually surrender. You can look alive spiritually and be empty at the core. And eventually, this empty form of worship crumples. That's why Hosea paints a stark ending. Homes overtaken. Possessions lost. Futures cut off. Everything they leaned on disappears, and their worship offers no refuge. Is your worship real? Not passionate. Not polished. Not consistent. But real, authentic, genuine. It flows from a life that actually walks with God. Worship was never meant to be something you attend. It's something you live. And here's the grace. He's still inviting you back. You don't have to keep faking it. You don't have to keep going through motions that lead nowhere. You can come back with honesty, humility, and a heart that actually wants Him. DO THIS: Before your next moment of worship, pause and ask God to make your heart sincere, not just your actions. ASK THIS: Is my worship connected to how I actually live? Have I been going through the motions? What would it look like to come back to real worship? PRAY THIS: God, don't let my worship become empty. Bring my heart back to you and make my devotion real again. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Heart of Worship"
Developing a Biblical Philosophy of Material Possessions | Summer Elective Week 4 | Mark Cover
Material possessions can never make us happy. King Solomon's story begins fairly well but then his identity trap ensnares him, and everything starts to fall apart. In this message, Pastor Philip Miller shares Solomon's ascent, demise, and wisdom. What if our search for satisfaction leads us back to our heavenly Father? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://moodyoffer.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Moody Church Hour" and "Living Hope," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Dr. Philip Miller is the 17th Senior Pastor of The Moody Church. He is the featured speaker on "Living Hope" and "Moody Church Hour," with programs broadcasting on 700 outlets in the U.S. He and his wife Krista live in Chicago with their four children. Pastor Philip is passionate about proclaiming God's Word, cultivating healthy ministry, and investing in future leaders. SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/ SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/
River of Life is an inter-denominational, interracial, Spirit-filled church located in the heart of Wakulla County, Florida. We share the sermons from our services in the hopes they'll reach others determined to worship God in spirit and truth.
River of Life is an inter-denominational, interracial, Spirit-filled church located in the heart of Wakulla County, Florida. We share the sermons from our services in the hopes they'll reach others determined to worship God in spirit and truth.
River of Life is an inter-denominational, interracial, Spirit-filled church located in the heart of Wakulla County, Florida. We share the sermons from our services in the hopes they'll reach others determined to worship God in spirit and truth.
River of Life is an inter-denominational, interracial, Spirit-filled church located in the heart of Wakulla County, Florida. We share the sermons from our services in the hopes they'll reach others determined to worship God in spirit and truth.
Welcome to Lake Hills Church, we hope you find what you are looking for and that you feel at home here. To give you a brief overview, Pastor Mac and Julie Richard founded Lake Hills Church in 1997, with the aspiration to redefine church for the city of Austin and beyond. We believe deeply in the unique power that the local church has to change lives and unite people. We are committed to living out and sharing the vision of LHC: to grow the community of Christ one life at a time, through evangelism + discipleship. Enjoy your visit! Find us online: Visit our website: https://www.lhc.org/ Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LakeHillsChurch Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/lhcatx Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lhcatx/ Follow us on X: https://twitter.com/lhcatx
Developing a Biblical Philosophy of Material Possessions | Summer Elective Week 3 | Mark Cover
Material possessions can never make us happy. King Solomon's story begins fairly well but then his identity trap ensnares him, and everything starts to fall apart. In this message, Pastor Philip Miller shares Solomon's ascent, demise, and wisdom. What if our search for satisfaction leads us back to our heavenly Father? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/173/29?v=20251111
Minimalism isn't about removing the things you love. It's about removing the things that distract you from the things you love. That insight from Joshua Becker gets to the heart of a much deeper issue than messy closets or crowded garages. Clutter competes for more than our space. It competes for our attention, affection, time, energy, and generosity. Joshua Becker, New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and founder of Becoming Minimalist, joined the show today to talk about his book, Uncluttered Faith: Own Less, Love More, and Make an Impact in Your World. His message is not that every Christian needs bare walls, a tiny home, or a life stripped of beauty and enjoyment. Rather, it's an invitation to ask a better question: Are the things we own helping us live faithfully, or are they quietly distracting us from what matters most? Minimalism Is Not One-Size-Fits-All For many people, the word “minimalism” brings to mind stark white rooms, empty shelves, or getting rid of nearly everything they own. But Becker is quick to point out that minimalism will look different from one person to another. Some may enjoy a simpler aesthetic. Others may not. Some may feel called to live with very little. Others may simply need to become more intentional about what they own and why. Becker defines minimalism as “the intentional promotion of the things we most value by removing anything that distracts us from it.” That definition moves the conversation from rules to purpose. The goal is not to own less for its own sake. The goal is to make room for what God has called us to value most. When Possessions Begin to Possess Us Becker's journey began on an ordinary Saturday morning. He set out to clean his garage while his young son wanted him to play. Hours later, still surrounded by stuff, he realized he had spent his day maintaining possessions instead of investing in his son. That moment became a turning point. He and his wife began removing unnecessary possessions from their home, eventually giving away or discarding 60 to 70 percent of what they owned. With each step, Becker noticed practical benefits. Their home became easier to maintain. Their lifestyle costs less. They had more time and energy. They also found new opportunities for generosity. As a pastor, Becker began to see the connection between simplicity and faith. Jesus had been inviting His followers into this kind of life all along—not as deprivation, but as freedom. He calls us away from storing up treasures on earth and toward a life oriented around the Kingdom of God. Consumerism Shapes Us More Than We Realize We live in a culture that constantly tells us more is better. Advertisements, social media, algorithms, and comparison all work together to convince us that the next purchase will make us happier, more secure, more admired, or more complete. The message is subtle but powerful: your life will be better if you buy what we're selling. Over time, that message shapes our desires. We begin to define success by accumulation. Bigger homes, newer cars, fuller closets, upgraded technology, and constant consumption start to feel normal. But normal is not always wise. And common is not always faithful. Scripture repeatedly warns us that riches and possessions can deceive us. In Luke 8, Jesus describes the seed choked by “the cares and riches and pleasures of life,” keeping it from bearing mature fruit. Possessions are not evil in themselves, but they can become thorns when they crowd out our attention to God, neighbor, and calling. Simplicity Is Not Deprivation Biblical simplicity does not mean rejecting every comfort or refusing to enjoy God's gifts. 1 Timothy 6:17 reminds us that God “richly provides us with everything to enjoy.” Money can be used for celebration, hospitality, beauty, rest, and meaningful experiences with family and friends. Those are good gifts from a generous God. The issue is not whether we enjoy what God provides. The issue is whether those gifts become idols. When possessions begin to promise identity, security, comfort, or joy in ways only God can provide, they no longer serve us. They master us. That is why simplicity can be a path toward abundance. When we own less of what distracts us, we gain more of what matters: time, margin, focus, generosity, relationships, and availability to God's work. Clutter Steals Margin Many people today feel hurried, anxious, and stretched thin. While clutter is not the only reason for that exhaustion, it often contributes more than we realize. The more we own, the more we must clean, organize, protect, repair, insure, store, and pay for. Possessions require attention. They make demands. They quietly add weight to already busy lives. A less cluttered life can create margin—space to pray, rest, serve, listen, give, and be present. It can help us become more attentive to God and to the people He has placed before us. Becker shared the story of a woman named Trish, whose grandmother modeled a simple and faithful life. Her grandmother gardened, gathered eggs, sat on the porch, and lived with a peaceful attentiveness that left a lasting mark. Trish remembered that example as the kind of life she wanted to cultivate in her own family—not disconnected from the world, but less rushed by it. That kind of legacy is often caught more than taught. Owning Less Can Free Us to Give More One of the clearest connections between simplicity and faith is generosity. When we spend less on accumulation, we have more freedom to give. For someone in debt, owning less may create room to pay down what is owed. For someone living paycheck to paycheck, it may provide breathing room. For someone already financially stable, it may open the door to greater generosity. This is not merely a financial principle. It is a spiritual one. Jesus said in Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Our spending and giving reveal what we value. And as we direct our resources toward God's Kingdom, our hearts are shaped in the process. Generosity helps loosen the grip of materialism. It reminds us that money is not our treasure, our protector, or our purpose. It is a tool entrusted to us by God for His glory and the good of others. A More Faithful Question The goal of an uncluttered faith is not to make everyone's home look the same. It is not to shame people for enjoying good gifts. And it is not to create a new form of legalism around how much a Christian should own. The better question is this: What is God calling me to make room for? Maybe it's more time with your children. Maybe it's more generosity. Maybe it's less anxiety. Maybe it's a greater availability to serve. Maybe it's simply the freedom to stop chasing what the world says you need and begin living more deeply in what Christ has already given. Owning less is not the treasure. Christ is. But when we remove what distracts us, we may find ourselves freer to love Him, love others, and make an impact with what He has entrusted to us. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: Can I borrow from my 401(k) instead of taking out a loan from the bank? My house is paid off, but I'm considering moving and may need funds available for a bridge loan. As the primary beneficiary of my late husband's IRA, do I have to move the full account into my name, or can I transfer part of it directly to my children since they're listed as contingent beneficiaries? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Uncluttered Faith: Own Less, Love More, and Make an Impact in Your World: A Minimalist Book by Joshua Becker Becoming Minimalist Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Look at Leviticus; Original languages of the bible; Hebrew - inventive written language; Letters with meaning; Additive letters; Aleph-tav = often untranslated; Lack of phonetics; Misinterpretation; Leprosy?; Understanding Rebekkah; Basic principles of the bible; Child-like understandings; Plagues of faith; Strength of women; Starving the mind; Child-raising; Traumatized by ideas; Reading with inspiration; "Holy"; Biblical beasts in Ezekiel; Chinese famines; "The Good Earth"; Repentance; Life-giving spirit; The Way of the World; Idolatry; Apostate church; Wages of unrighteousness; Covetousness; Reliance on Holy Spirit; Masoretic text; Logic of God and the bible; "Logos" = right reason, logical; Tree of Life; Darkening your eyes; Sabbath; Debating; vs finding the truth; "Tropes"; Rituals and forms; Pure Religion; Jots and tittles; Walking in faith; Gen 19:16; Why did Lot linger?; Cultivating a relationship with Holy Spirit; shin-lamad-shin-lamad-tav; Social welfare via government; Your need to obey government; Welfare snares; Biblical confusion; Word of God; Who's inspired?; Reading nature; "Humanity" for animals?; Reproductive rights?; Trusting in the Lord; "Idolatry"; Taking away neighbor's right to choose; Becoming merchandise; Accepting lies; 2 Kings 16:3, 2 Chronicles 28:3; Hivites, Canaanites, Hittites; Love vs authority; Passing through the fire; Freedom of religion?; Biblical harlot riding a beast?; Forcing neighbor; Abraham's smoking furnace and burning lamp; Cursing your children with debt; Context of the bible; Removing scales from your eyes; "gods"; Col 3:5; Following instructions?; No covetousness; Just weights and measures; Eph 5:5; "Whoremonger"; Tyrants; Practicing pure religion; 1 Cor 5:10; Fornication with world governments; Israelites in Egypt; Finding seekers of His kingdom and righteousness; Organizing in Tens; Ps 106:38; Ez 16:36; Placing your children in debt; Prov 2:16; Prov 20:16; Pledging your rights; Rebekkah = resh-biet-kuf-hey; Messaging in names; Divinely chosen wife/mother; Ensnare?; resh-biet-kuf; Daughter of Betheul; Sister of Leban; Wife of Isaac; Mother of Esau and Jacob; Binding others through marriage and influence; "Melchizedek"; Gen 24:21; Possessions of Abraham.
In this episode I talk with Dr. Carl-Magnus Carlstein, lecturer on Biblical Studies at Linkoping University, Sweden, about the contribution he contributed with co-author Rebekah Eklund in New Testament Ethics, out now on Eerdmans, which explores the ethics of possessions and wealth in the New Testament. We discuss the often-neglected topic of possessions, why many Christians are uncomfortable with this topic, and why it is so significant to the New Testament. Carl explains why Luke has a unique take on this subject, how Christians tend to emphasize either radical renunciation or charity as the models for thinking about the ethics of wealth, and how Jesus is more concerned with intentions, moral formation, and the heart. We then look at four passages in Luke's gospel which address the issue of wealth and possessions, show how in case after case Jesus is concerned with the disposition of those who possess wealth and how we must be transformed to use wealth properly. Finally, we discuss how the church can implement this vision today and cultivate healthy, God-honoring motivations towards what we possess. Media Referenced:New Testament Ethics: https://a.co/d/02cjLNETDr. Carlstein: https://liu.se/en/employee/carca26Dr. Eklund: https://www.loyola.edu/academics/theology/faculty/directory/eklund-rebekah.htmlEpisode on Barclay, Wealth, and the New Testament: https://libertarianchristians.com/episode/ep-260-wealth-and-the-new-testament-a-response-to-john-barclay/ The Protestant Libertarian Podcast is a project of the Libertarian Christian Institute and a part of the Christians For Liberty Network. The Libertarian Christian Institute can be found at www.libertarianchristians.com.Questions, comments, suggestions? Please reach out to me at theprotestantlibertarian@gmail.com. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter: @prolibertypod, and YouTube, @ProLibertyPod, where you will get shorts and other exclusive video content. For more about the show, you can go to theprotestantlibertarianpodcast.com. If you like the show and want to support it, you can! Go to libertarianchristians.com, where you can donate to LCI and buy The Protestant Libertarian Podcast Merch! Also, please consider giving me a star rating and leaving me a review, it really helps expand the show's profile! Thanks!
The 10 Commandments E13 — We've arrived at the 10th and final commandment, which feels very different from all the ones that came before it: “Do not desire … anything that belongs to your neighbor.” While most translations use the word “covet,” we simply find khamad, which is the general Hebrew word for desire. All the other commandments involve observable actions, but desire is entirely internal. So why does God warn us about desiring things that belong to our neighbor? In this episode, Jon and Tim finish the 10 Commandments by showing how this command works as an undercurrent beneath all the others. FULL SHOW NOTES For chapter-by-chapter summaries, biblical words, referenced Scriptures, and reflection questions, check out the full show notes for this episode. CHAPTERS The Meaning of “Desire” (0:00-21:13) How the Hebrew Bible Talks About Desire (21:13-37:21) What All Our Desires Point To (37:21-59:30) OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT View this episode's official transcript. THE 10 COMMANDMENTS BIBLEPROJECT TRANSLATION View our full translation of the 10 Commandments. REFERENCED RESOURCES Find the related animated video for this episode here. Find the 10 Commandments full collection of resources here. “The Twofold Center of Christian Ethics: Christian Freedom and God's Commandments” by Reinhard Hütter (essay in The Promise of Lutheran Ethics, edited by Karen L. Bloomquist and John R. Stumme) The Ten Commandments: Interpretation: Resources for the Use of Scripture in the Church by Patrick D. Miller Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books. SHOW MUSIC “Morning Light feat. Oly.Lo” by Lofi Sunday “Hilltops feat. JK Beatbrook” by Lofi Sunday BibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITS Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty writes the show notes. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Curses! Well, cursed belongings is our topic in The Reading Room tonight! A pretty silver vase that killed the bride it was gifted to. An ancient female figurine that's rumored to have been deadly since forever...and some bedazzlingly dangerous jewels, The Dubious Delhi Purple Sapphire and The Hopeless Hope Diamond. Please find your favorite, totally not cursed spot!Special Thanks to Sounds Like an Earful Music Supply for the amazing music AND sound design.
How can we find true security when worldly treasures keep failing us? Naaman thought his wealth could secure him against life's vulnerabilities. In this message, Pastor Philip Miller explains how Naaman's hardship, humbling, and healing reveal how God breaks our pride. Discover how a man whose name means "gracious" finally learned the true meaning of grace. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://moodyoffer.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Moody Church Hour" and "Living Hope," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Dr. Philip Miller is the 17th Senior Pastor of The Moody Church. He is the featured speaker on "Living Hope" and "Moody Church Hour," with programs broadcasting on 700 outlets in the U.S. He and his wife Krista live in Chicago with their four children. Pastor Philip is passionate about proclaiming God's Word, cultivating healthy ministry, and investing in future leaders. SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/ SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/
What if giving is not losing at all, but investing in what lasts forever? Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:20 to “store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” That one command reshapes the way we think about money, possessions, and generosity. Wealth can be dangerous when it owns us, but when it is surrendered to God, it can become a powerful tool for eternal good. Randy Alcorn, bestselling author and founder of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM), has spent decades helping Christians think biblically about money, possessions, generosity, and eternity. His message is both sobering and hopeful: wealth is a test, but it can also become a tool for God's Kingdom. Money Reveals the Heart Money has a powerful influence on our spiritual lives because it reveals what we truly value. Jesus said in Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” The way we handle money is not separate from our discipleship. It shows what we trust, what we prioritize, and where our affections are directed. As Alcorn explains, money is not spiritually insignificant. It has power. Either it will serve God, or we will find ourselves serving it. That is why Scripture speaks so directly about the danger of loving money. In 1 Timothy 6:9–10, Paul warns that “those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare,” and that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils.” He goes on to say that some have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. Those are sobering words. Money is a good gift from God. It can provide for needs, bless families, support ministry, and help those who are suffering. But when it becomes the object of our trust or the center of our affections, it competes with God for our hearts. Wealth Is Both a Tool and a Test The danger of wealth is real, but it is not the whole story. Money surrendered to God can be used in deeply meaningful ways. It can help advance the gospel. It can meet practical needs. It can support Bible translation, provide clean water, help rescue those trapped in exploitation, care for the vulnerable, and strengthen the work of the local church. Money is not the source of transformation—God is. But God often uses the resources of His people to accomplish His purposes in the world. That is why faithful stewardship begins with surrender. We come before the Lord and say, “This all belongs to You. What do You want me to do with it?” When wealth is surrendered to God, it loses its grip on our hearts and becomes an opportunity to participate in His redemptive work. Giving Is Investing in Eternity Jesus' command to store up treasures in heaven reframes generosity. Giving is not merely parting with money. It is investing in what lasts. Alcorn compares this to investing in a company. When you own shares, you naturally begin to pay attention. You read the reports. You notice the headlines. Your interest follows your investment. The same principle applies spiritually. When we put our resources toward the things of God, our hearts begin to follow. If we want to care more deeply about our church, missions, the poor, or the work of the gospel, one practical step is to invest our time, energy, and money there. Generosity does not only bless the recipient. It reshapes the giver. It moves our hearts toward the Kingdom of God. Generosity Produces Joy In Acts 20:35, Paul reminds the Ephesian elders of Jesus' words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” That does not mean giving is merely a duty. It means generosity leads to joy. The generous life reflects the heart of God, who gives freely and abundantly. Grace itself is rooted in God's giving nature. When we give, we are not simply checking off a spiritual responsibility. We are participating in the generosity of God. That is why giving can loosen anxiety, deepen purpose, and bring joy. The world often defines “the good life” as having more, spending more, and pursuing personal comfort. But Scripture points us toward a better way. In 1 Timothy 6:18–19, Paul urges the wealthy “to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share,” so that they may “take hold of that which is truly life.” The good life is not found in accumulation. It is found in generosity. Defining Enough One of the most important steps in faithful stewardship is learning to define enough. Without a finish line, we can easily assume that every increase in income is meant to raise our lifestyle. But many of us already have more than we need. The question is not simply, “What can I afford?” but “What has God entrusted to me, and how does He want me to use it?” A financial finish line helps create margin for intentional Kingdom-focused generosity. It keeps accumulation from becoming automatic. It invites us to ask better questions about contentment, purpose, and eternal impact. Everything we own is temporary. Possessions wear out. Trends fade. What once felt essential can quickly become clutter. That does not mean material things are evil, but it does mean they cannot bear the weight of our hope. Giving helps break the hold that money and possessions can have on our hearts. Giving Is Not Losing Wealth is both a tool and a test. When we cling to it, it can pull us away from dependence on God. But when we surrender it, money can become a means of worship, service, and eternal investment. Generosity reminds us that God is our ultimate treasure. It trains our hearts to trust Him. It frees us from the illusion that more money will finally make us secure. And it allows us to participate in the work God is doing in the world. Giving is not losing. In the Kingdom of God, giving is investing in what lasts forever. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I live in a 55-plus community in a manufactured home on leased land. We own the home but not the land, which belongs to the community owner. Would a reverse mortgage be possible in this situation, or would a manufactured home on leased land qualify? I have both a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA for retirement, but I'm not retired yet. Why am I required to take RMDs from my IRA at age 72 or 73, even if I'm still working? Do Roth IRAs have RMDs? And how much can my husband and I give through Qualified Charitable Distributions to help reduce taxes? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Money, Possessions, and Eternity by Randy Alcorn The Treasure Principle, Revised and Updated: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving by Randy Alcorn Giving Is the Good Life: The Unexpected Path to Purpose and Joy by Randy Alcorn Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every 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. 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We went all in on the spooky this week with listener encounters that seriously tested our bravery, diving into stories of possession, demons and exorcisms. These experiences had everything that keeps us up at night, like eerie 3:33 a.m. wakeups, haunted mirrors, sleepwalking trances, years long demonic attachments, physical injuries from paranormal attacks and so much more. Plus, rare moments where protective forces intervene. A listener wakes at 3:33 a.m. to a blood-curdling scream, is pulled into a trance and faces a chained, monstrous entity in an antique mirror. One listener performed multiple exorcisms as a teen, and battled demonic forces that caused objects to levitate and people to speak in unknown languages. Strange astral experiences lead one person to unknowingly cross into a dangerous space, after which both she and her sister experience physical and emotional attacks. Another listener details a lifelong attachment from a high-ranking demon that appeared in dreams, sent smaller entities to torment her, and threatened to claim her soul. A terrifying pattern of sleepwalking and astral projection leads one storyteller to open the wrong “door,” inviting something dark that begins targeting both her and her sister. Watch the video version here. Have ghost stories of your own? E-mail them to us at twogirlsoneghostpodcast@gmail.com New Episodes are released every Thursday and Sunday at 12am PST/3am EST (the witching hour, of course). Corinne and Sabrina hand select a couple of paranormal encounters from our inbox to read in each episode, from demons, to cryptids, to aliens, to creepy kids... the list goes on and on. If you have a story of your own that you'd like us to share on an upcoming episode, we invite you to email them to us! If you enjoy our show, please consider joining our Patreon, rating and reviewing on iTunes & Spotify and following us on social media! Youtube, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Discord. Edited and produced by Jaimi Ryan. Original music by Arms Akimbo! Disclaimer: the use of white sage and smudging is a closed practice. If you're looking to cleanse your space, here are some great alternatives! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices