Podcasts about pursuing god

Merry Christmas Eve, friend. Today on Pursuing God, we're tracing the journey of Jesus from the manger to the Jordan River — and what it means for your life right now. He wasn't just born to be admired in a nativity scene; He came to be followed. Born in a manger, buried in baptism, and raised to bring new life to anyone willing to say yes. As we light the final Advent candle and reflect on His birth, I want to invite you to consider the personal invitation Jesus offers: to be made new. And for some of you, that next step might be baptism. Let's talk about what it means to go all in — to identify with the One who identified with us.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Christmas isn't always “the most wonderful time of the year.” For some of us, this time of year magnifies the pain we're carrying… the empty chair at the table, the tension in relationships, the dreams that haven't come true. Today I want to talk about the hard side of Christmas and remind you of the powerful promise Jesus makes in the middle of it all: “Behold, I am making all things new.” Not someday. Not just in heaven. But right now, even in the middle of your heartache. If this Christmas feels heavy, I hope you'll take a few minutes with me today. Don't pretend. Don't force the joy. Just come as you are. And let's draw near to the One who promises to draw near to us.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

In this final week of Advent, Gene Appel invites you to shift your perspective from anxiety to awe. As we reflect on Isaiah 12 and the promise of salvation, we're reminded that we don't have to stay stuck in the cycle of worry. Instead, we're called to draw close to our Mighty God—to turn our monologue of stress into a dialogue of trust. Whether you're weighed down by finances, relationships, or uncertainty this Christmas, this will help you move from fear to faith, and from panic to prayer, as you draw joyfully from the well of God's presence. Behold Him. He is near.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

December 21, 2025-Advent: Pursuing God's Peace by Southwest Christian Church

As we wrap up the third week of Advent, we've spent these days looking at Jesus as YOUR KING. We close this week by returning to the wise men, who traveled for months, maybe years, to bow before Jesus and offer their gifts. Their worship wasn't casual or convenient; it was love expressed.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

“Behold, your King is coming to you.” Today, we trace how the Christmas story itself declares that Jesus didn't come for one group, one ethnicity, or one nation, He came for the world. From lowly shepherds to foreign Magi, God made it unmistakably clear: the good news is for everyone.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Today, we explore the powerful contrast between two very different gifts brought to Jesus, costly treasures from the wise men and two simple pigeons from Mary and Joseph. One extravagant, one humble… yet both equally honoring to God. Why? Because God doesn't measure the amount, He measures the proportion and the heart behind it.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Today, we walk through the often-misunderstood story of the wise men, their long journey, intentional worship, and the deeply symbolic gifts they brought to Jesus. Gold for the King. Frankincense for the High Priest. Myrrh for the Savior who came to die.Their gifts weren't last-minute add-ons; they were thoughtful, planned acts of worship. As we enter the busiest days of December, this episode invites you to consider: Are you offering Jesus your leftovers, or your first and best? Let's make God our central thought this season—not an afterthought.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

What did you think of today's message? Support the showWith Northgate Online, you can join us every Sunday live at 9:00a and 11:00a, and our gatherings are available on-demand starting at 7p! Join us at https://thisis.churchSubscribe to our channel to see more messages from Northgate: https://www.youtube.com/@Northgate2201 —If you would like to give, visit https://thisis.church/give/—Check out our Care Ministries for prayer, food pantry, memorial services and more at https://thisis.church/care—You are welcome at Northgate just like you are. Life may be going great for you or you may have hurts, hang-ups, and habits. No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome at Northgate. We value the process of journey. We believe in the transformative power of Christ. Northgate has a clear vision of transforming our homes, communities, and world by Pursuing God, Building Community, and Unleashing Compassion.—Follow Northgate on Instagram: https://instgram.com/ngatecfFollow Northgate on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisIsNorthgate/Follow Larry Davis: https://www.instagram.com/sirlawrencedavisSubscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/northgate/id1583512612Subscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Google): https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS81ODE2ODAucnNzShare your experience with Northgate by leaving a review: https://g.page/r/CRHE7UBydhxzEBM/review...

Step into the third week of Advent with the powerful declaration from Zechariah: “Behold, your King is coming to you… having salvation.” Today, we reflect on the wise men, their gifts, and what it means to worship the One who has everything yet still desires our hearts. In a season filled with noise, hurry, and gift-giving, this episode invites you to slow down, become a worshipper again, and honor the King who has come near. Before we give gifts to one another, may we first offer our gratitude and worship to the One who gave Himself for us.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Connect with God — on Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. Use this biblical meditation, narrated by Lonein Lara, to center yourself on the truth in God's word. Let God restore you to your home in Him. Meditate on Jeremiah 29:13. Allow the music & nature sounds, deep breathing, prayer, and scripture help you connect with God in a new way. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for meditation is right here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Fear not, a reminder of the extraordinary joy at the heart of Christmas. Today's episode invites you to slow down, create space in this busy season, and consider how God wants to use your life, right where you live, to shine His light. Just as the shepherds shared the good news with everyone they knew, God invites us to do the same. Who in your life needs hope, encouragement, or an invitation this Christmas?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

In today's Advent reflection, we revisit the shepherds' fear and their courageous decision to explore what God was revealing to them. Many of us are just “18 inches” from Jesus, the distance between knowing about Him in our minds and believing in Him with our hearts. This episode invites you to quiet the noise, recognize God's voice, and take that final step through two powerful words: I believe.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

As we continue the second week of Advent, we turn to a moment in the Christmas story that reminds us just how wide God's love reaches. The angel announces, “Fear not, for behold I bring you good news of great joy for all people,” and the first to hear it weren't kings or influencers, they were shepherds at the bottom of society's ladder. Today's episode invites you to “take a look” at the radical inclusivity of Christmas and remember that Jesus came for everyone, everywhere, including you. No matter your background, story, or status, the good news is for you and for someone in your life who needs to hear it.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Connect with God — on Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. Use this biblical meditation, narrated by Tyler Boss, to center yourself on the truth in God's word. How much do you long for God? Meditate on Isaiah 26:9. Allow the music & nature sounds, deep breathing, prayer, and scripture help you connect with God in a new way. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for meditation is right here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Advent reminds us that long before we pursued God, He was already pursuing us. Today, we explore why surrender, the very choice Mary and Joseph made in their most overwhelming moments, is the antidote to fear. From bad timing and impossible circumstances to a wave analogy that hits close to home, this episode shows how moving toward what scares us, rather than running from it, opens our lives to God's peace and strength. Fruit grows in soil cultivated by surrender, and this season invites us to trust His timing, His presence, and His leading.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

What did you think of today's message? Support the showWith Northgate Online, you can join us every Sunday live at 9:00a and 11:00a, and our gatherings are available on-demand starting at 7p! Join us at https://thisis.churchSubscribe to our channel to see more messages from Northgate: https://www.youtube.com/@Northgate2201 —If you would like to give, visit https://thisis.church/give/—Check out our Care Ministries for prayer, food pantry, memorial services and more at https://thisis.church/care—You are welcome at Northgate just like you are. Life may be going great for you or you may have hurts, hang-ups, and habits. No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome at Northgate. We value the process of journey. We believe in the transformative power of Christ. Northgate has a clear vision of transforming our homes, communities, and world by Pursuing God, Building Community, and Unleashing Compassion.—Follow Northgate on Instagram: https://instgram.com/ngatecfFollow Northgate on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisIsNorthgate/Follow Larry Davis: https://www.instagram.com/sirlawrencedavisSubscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/northgate/id1583512612Subscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Google): https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS81ODE2ODAucnNzShare your experience with Northgate by leaving a review: https://g.page/r/CRHE7UBydhxzEBM/review...

Step into the second week of Advent with the angel's invitation: Fear not. Today, we look at Mary and Joseph's story and how God met them in the middle of confusion, fear, and an uncertain future. As we light the “Fear Not” candle, take a moment to slow down, reflect on God's presence in your own circumstances, and remember that Immanuel, God with us, makes courage possible.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

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Today's reflection is realizing the heart of Christmas is God letting go of His Son because of His love for us. Discover how learning to “let go” in your own life can open the door to reaching the one person who needs Jesus most. This episode invites you to trust, release control, and follow the example of a God who let go to rescue you.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Why would Jesus let go of heaven to come to earth as a baby? Today, we explore John 1 and the stunning truth that the Word became flesh, fully God and fully human, so we could be forgiven, restored, and set free. If guilt or regret has been weighing you down, this episode offers hope, clarity, and the reminder that everything we need is found in Jesus.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

You're invited to pause and really behold what Christmas means. Isaiah 7:14 tells us that a virgin would conceive and give birth to a son called Immanuel, which means God with us. Today, we look at the birth of Jesus through the eyes of Joseph and Mary and the closed doors they faced in Bethlehem. Their story reminds us that God often arrives in the most unexpected places and invites us to open the door of our own hearts in return. Whether you are opening that door for the first time or opening it wider than before, this reflection will help you notice the God who knocks and who longs to be with you in every part of your life.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Advent reminds us that before we ever pursued God, He was already pursuing us. In this episode we reflect on Isaiah 7:14, the miracle of the virgin birth, and the wonder of Immanuel God with us. Discover the beauty of a God who steps into our world, draws near in our darkest moments, and shows us what His presence really means. A powerful reminder of hope, closeness, and the heart of Christmas.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Pursuing God is the only way to live a transformed life in Jesus. And practicing that determination of being the best version of ourselves comes only from allowing God to change us, step by step. It is in the quest to find Him that we open ourselves to His transforming ways – changing our hearts of stone into hearts of flesh – the blood of Christ carrying the oxygen of life to our very souls. Run after Him. He is near.Daylight Meditations is a daily podcast from CFO North America. Please visit CFONorthAmerica.org to learn more about our retreats, and online courses. If you are encouraged by this podcast, please consider supporting us. Contributors: Michelle DeChant, Adam Maddock, and Phil Reaser

Step into the first week of Advent with a simple but powerful reminder: God is with us. Today we look at the meaning of “Behold” and the incredible impact of Jesus' coming, from a manger in Bethlehem to the shaping of history itself. As we begin this season together, take a moment to slow down, reflect on Immanuel, and thank God for coming near.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

What did you think of today's message? Support the showWith Northgate Online, you can join us every Sunday live at 9:00a and 11:00a, and our gatherings are available on-demand starting at 7p! Join us at https://thisis.churchSubscribe to our channel to see more messages from Northgate: https://www.youtube.com/@Northgate2201 —If you would like to give, visit https://thisis.church/give/—Check out our Care Ministries for prayer, food pantry, memorial services and more at https://thisis.church/care—You are welcome at Northgate just like you are. Life may be going great for you or you may have hurts, hang-ups, and habits. No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome at Northgate. We value the process of journey. We believe in the transformative power of Christ. Northgate has a clear vision of transforming our homes, communities, and world by Pursuing God, Building Community, and Unleashing Compassion.—Follow Northgate on Instagram: https://instgram.com/ngatecfFollow Northgate on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisIsNorthgate/Follow Larry Davis: https://www.instagram.com/sirlawrencedavisSubscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/northgate/id1583512612Subscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Google): https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS81ODE2ODAucnNzShare your experience with Northgate by leaving a review: https://g.page/r/CRHE7UBydhxzEBM/review...

Matt cracked into the three values that are built into the pillars of purpose. Pursuing God joyfully, generously give and honour all people

Discover how to give thanks even when life does not go the way you hoped. This Thanksgiving message explores Habakkuk's declaration of nevertheless gratitude, the discipline of disappointment, and the daily gifts God places right in front of us. A heartfelt reminder to wake up tomorrow and say thank you, not because life is perfect but because God is faithful.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Discover how gratitude grows when you stop waiting for perfect circumstances and start giving thanks right now. This Thanksgiving message shares the powerful story of Corrie ten Boom, why “I'll be grateful when…” never works, and how Psalm 118:24 calls us to rejoice in this day God has made.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Learn how to give thanks in all circumstances, break free from a culture of complaint, and cultivate a grateful heart this Thanksgiving week.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

As we wrap up 21 Days of Prayer, take a moment to thank God for the good work He's begun and trust that He'll finish it. Nehemiah's story reminds us that faithfulness isn't about starting strong, it's about finishing well. Don't give up on what God's rebuilding in your life or the lives around you. Keep showing up, keep building, and keep believing that the work He started will be completed.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

As humans we have a tendency to be passive and self-centered. We stand back and wait for life to come to us and we choose things on the basis of how much pleasure or benefit we get out of them. Both of these are poor attitudes in any situation, but when it comes to our relationship with God they are exactly the opposite of what we should do. In this chapter of Genesis Abraham models qualities which should be foundational for every person's worship life. It's true we are reading about a very unusual encounter between someone and God, but the way Abraham reacted that afternoon was anything but passive or self-centered. He was a man who loved the Lord and who God referred to as His "friend" (Isa 41:18; 2Ch 20:7; Jas 2:23), and we would be wise to observe the way he treated the Lord and do likewise when we worship Him. To receive a free copy of Dr. Steve Schell's newest book Study Verse by Verse: Revelation, email us at info@lifelessonspublishing.com and ask for your copy at no charge!  Also check out our website at lifelessonspublishing.com for additional resources for pastors and leaders. We have recorded classes and other materials offered at no charge.  

Watch our services live at http://wcfav.org/ Free Downloads of Pastor Shane's E-books at https://westsidechristianfellowship.org/free-ebooks/ Donate to Westside Christian Fellowship here: https://westsidechristianfellowship.org/give/ Westside Christian Fellowship is a non-denominational Christian church that meets every every Sunday at 8:30 am & 11:00 am in Leona Valley, California (9306 Leona Avenue). For more info, or to read our statement of faith, visit westsidechristianfellowship.org/about-wcf/statement-of-faith/

Nehemiah didn't just rebuild walls; he rebuilt people. He noticed their names, their efforts, and their progress, and he took time to commend them. Encouragement is one of the most powerful tools God gives us to help others grow. Today, ask God to give you eyes to see progress in others and the courage to speak life into them. Celebrate someone's small victory. Your words might be exactly what keeps them going.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Connect with God — on Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. Use this biblical meditation, narrated by James Seawood, to center yourself on the truth in God's word. What does it mean to abide in Christ? Meditate on 1 John 4:13-14. Allow the music & nature sounds, deep breathing, prayer, and scripture help you connect with God in a new way. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for meditation is right here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When life gets stormy, we need each other. Nehemiah's people, like the early church, learned that cooperation and unity are what move God's mission forward. Today, ask God to break down any walls of jealousy, pride, or distance that keep you from others. Pray for unity in our church, healing in relationships, and gratitude for the people who hold up your arms when you grow weary.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Nehemiah's story reminds us that God's work moves forward when everyone joins in. No one rebuilt the wall alone, and no one's role was too small. Priests, goldsmiths, merchants, and families all cooperated to make the vision a reality. Today, ask God to show you where you can contribute, even if you feel unqualified. Pray for a heart that values unity and for the courage to do your part in rebuilding lives. Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

How can we follow David in his pursuit of God?

Day 17 is a reminder that rebuilding lives takes teamwork. Nehemiah couldn't rebuild the wall alone, and we can't rebuild God's Kingdom alone either. Every person, every role, every gift matters. Today, thank God for the people who serve faithfully at Eastside, pray for those coordinating the work behind the scenes, and ask God where you fit in His plan.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Day 16 is all about people. Nehemiah knew the wall around Jerusalem wasn't really the goal - the people were. Every name in Nehemiah 3 mattered because every person mattered. Today, ask God to help you see people the way He does. Pray for a heart that values individuals over accomplishments, and reach out to someone who needs to know they matter.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

We're kicking off the final week of 21 Days of Prayer by talking about teamwork. Just like Nehemiah couldn't rebuild Jerusalem alone, none of us can rebuild our lives in isolation. Take time today to thank God for the people who've helped shape your faith, and ask Him to show you someone you can encourage or support this week. We're better when we build together. Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

This week, we've seen what it takes to rebuild when life feels hard: courage, focus, prayer, and perseverance. Today's reminder is simple but vital - keep alert. One victory doesn't make us invincible. Even after Nehemiah rebuilt the wall, the work wasn't over.It's easy to relax when things are going well, but maturity comes from knowing the enemy's strategy is a subtle pull to get us to drift off course. Nehemiah refused to quit. Real strength is built in the struggle.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

We've talked about staying focused and avoiding distractions. Today, we're looking at how to stand firm when false accusations and intimidation try to derail us.Nehemiah faced lies, slander, and threats, but instead of lashing out or quitting, he calmly set the record straight and prayed, “Now strengthen my hands.” His example reminds us that courage isn't loud, it's steady. It's the quiet confidence to speak the truth without retaliation and the humility to guard our own words when gossip starts to spread.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Connect with God — on Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. Use this biblical meditation, narrated by Bonnie Curry, to center yourself on the truth in God's word. What do you hunger for? Meditate on John 6:35. Allow the music & nature sounds, deep breathing, prayer, and scripture help you connect with God in a new way. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for meditation is right here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It's Day 12 of our 21 Days of Prayer, and today we're looking at one of the hardest attacks Nehemiah faced: betrayal from within. Opposition hurts most when it comes from people we trust. But just like Nehemiah, and countless leaders through the years, we're reminded to stay focused on the work God's called us to do.When the noise grows loud and distractions pile up, it's easy to drift from what matters most. But rebuilding requires focus. Nehemiah refused to stop working, saying, “Why should the work stop while I leave it?” The same is true for us, good things can become the very things that pull us from God's best.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

As we rebuild what's broken, we've seen how distractions and slander can derail us. Another challenge we may face is the seduction of alarmists. When fear gets loud and panic spreads, discernment becomes essential.Nehemiah was told his enemies were coming to kill him and that he should run and hide in the temple. But he saw through the manipulation and refused to let fear dictate his faith. Instead, he stood firm and trusted God to protect him.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Rebuilding what's broken isn't just hard, it's messy. It's not just distractions that can pull us off course. Today, we see another attack Nehemiah faced: the sabotage of slander. False rumors spread. His motives were questioned. But instead of fighting back or quitting, he prayed, “Nothing like what you're saying is happening… Now strengthen my hands.”We've all felt the sting of words that weren't true, and if we're honest, we've probably passed along a few ourselves. Today's prayer invites us to pause and ask God to help us respond with grace when we're hurt, and restraint when we're tempted to gossip. May we become people who build others up, not tear them down.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.