Podcast appearances and mentions of randy alcorn

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wealth is both a tool and a test. In Matthew 6:20, Jesus says to store up treasures in heaven, and that changes the way we think about money, possessions, and generosity. On the next Faith & Finance Live, Rob West and Randy Alcorn explain why wealth can be dangerous when it owns us—but deeply life-giving when it’s surrendered to God. Then, it’s on to your calls. That’s Faith & Finance Live—where biblical wisdom meets today’s financial decisions—weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Abundance isn't God's provision for me to live in luxury; it's His provision for me to help others live.” That line from Randy Alcorn captures the heart behind a financial finish line. When God entrusts us with more, the question is not simply, “How much can I keep?” but “How much can I use for His purposes?” Cody Hobelman, Certified Financial Planner and Certified Kingdom Advisor, joined the show today to share how that question became deeply personal in his own life. Along with his brother Keelan, Cody contributed to FaithFi's new Field Guide, How Much Money Is Enough? But before he taught others how to set a financial finish line, he had to wrestle with it in his own context. The Early Pull of Accumulation Early in his career, Cody's view of money was much like that of many people. He wanted a large income, growing wealth, and the kinds of opportunities that seemed to promise happiness and success—perhaps vacation homes, financial freedom, and a comfortable lifestyle. Those goals were not unusual. Many people begin their careers with an eye toward building, earning, and accumulating. But over time, Cody began to sense that something was missing. After college, he returned to church and began reading Scripture for himself. What stood out to him was how often Jesus spoke about money. Those passages began to reshape the way he viewed his role in managing what God had entrusted to him. When Obedience Begins to Reshape the Heart At the end of 2016, Cody's church went through a series on managing money biblically. At the conclusion, the congregation was invited to commit to tithing in the coming year. After prayer and conversation with his wife, Steph, Cody decided to begin giving 10% of his income to the church in 2017. That step mattered. It was his first move into intentional giving. He began to see that not every dollar he earned had to serve his own lifestyle. God gives resources with purpose, and giving helped Cody begin to discover that purpose. But as he later reflected, his generosity at that stage still felt like “checking the box.” He was giving, but accumulation remained the deeper goal. Tithing became a generous layer atop a life still largely centered on earning, comparing, and building more. He realized he was trying to serve both God and money. The Question That Changed Everything In 2020, Cody's brother Keelan invited him to consider a simple but life-altering question: “How much is enough?” In other words, if God provided more income over the course of his career—or even in a single year—how would Cody know how much was enough to spend on his own lifestyle? And how could he create margin so that additional resources could be used for God's purposes? At first, Cody resisted the conversation. But he could not escape the realization that he was still at the center of his financial world. So he and Steph accepted the challenge. They chose a number that represented a reasonable level of lifestyle spending for a season. That number became their first financial finish line. A financial finish line is a cap on lifestyle spending. Once that line is set, anything beyond it can be directed toward generosity, debt reduction, ministry, or other God-honoring purposes. A Finish Line Before the Increase Interestingly, Cody and Steph set their first finish line when their income was still below that number. Steph was in graduate school, Cody was early in his career, and they still had student loans. They were also hoping to buy a home. So the finish line was not immediately restrictive. It was more future-oriented. But that decision prepared their hearts before additional income arrived. Not long after, Steph graduated and began working full-time. Cody also received a raise. Suddenly, the finish line was no longer theoretical—it was practical. Because they had done the hard work of prayer, conversation, and planning before the increase in income, they already knew what to do. Their finish line helped them avoid simply expanding their lifestyle to match their income. Paying Down Debt to Free Up Generosity At the time, Cody and Steph still had debt. But their growing vision for generosity changed the way they saw it. Rather than viewing debt simply as a financial inconvenience, they began to see it as an obstacle to giving as they wanted to. So even within their finish line, they chose to live on less than they could have in order to prioritize paying down debt. The goal was not merely to become debt-free for their own comfort. It was to remove barriers that limited their ability to participate in what God was doing. From Scorecard to Stewardship Setting a financial finish line changed Cody and Steph's day-to-day life. For the first time, Cody said he truly experienced contentment. He could honestly say, “We have enough.” That contentment reshaped their conversations about money. Instead of asking only what they could afford for themselves, they began asking what God might be inviting them to do for others. They also created a separate “kingdom account,” moving money into a dedicated giving account. Eventually, they used a donor-advised fund as well. That separation clarified the purpose of the money and helped guard against the temptation to use it for their own lifestyle. Money became a tool, not a scorecard. Before setting a finish line, even giving could feel like something to measure or compare. Afterward, generosity became more about obedience, surrender, and availability. Living With God, Not Merely For God Looking back, Cody says the finish line helped him trust God more deeply. It changed the way he viewed work, provision, and the future. Rather than constantly asking, “Will there be enough?” he began asking, “What would God have us do right now?” That shift moved generosity from a financial category into a way of life. It became part of listening to God, responding to Scripture, and attending to the needs around him. How to Take the First Step For someone who feels drawn to the idea of a finish line yet intimidated by it, Cody offers simple encouragement: start with a trial period. You do not have to choose the perfect number. You do not have to answer every “what if” before you begin. Start with three or six months. Choose a reasonable level of spending for your family, your season, and your location. Then see what God reveals as you take the next step. A finish line is not necessarily a one-time decision. It can be revisited and adjusted as life changes. The point is not rigidity—it is intentionality. When we define enough, we are not limiting our lives. We are creating space for greater clarity, contentment, and generosity. God's provision is not merely something to consume. It is something to steward. And when we stop asking only, “How much can I keep?” we become free to ask a far better question: “Lord, how do You want me to use what You've entrusted to me?” FaithFi's new Field Guide, How Much Money Is Enough?, is designed to help you begin that journey and set your own financial finish line. You can receive your copy when you become a FaithFi Partner by giving $35 a month or $400 a year by May 31st. Learn more at FaithFi.com/Give. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I've saved about $2,000 for my 11-year-old grandson by setting aside about $1 a day. He's interested in the stock market, but I don't know much about investing. Where could I put this money so it has a chance to grow, and is $2,000 enough to get started? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Fidelity Go® | Schwab Intelligent Portfolios® 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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Randy Alcorn says, “Abundance isn’t God’s provision for me to live in luxury. It’s his provision for me to help others live.” When God entrusts us with more, the question isn’t simply, “How much can I keep?” but “How much can I use for His purposes?” On the next Faith & Finance Live, Cody Hobelmann joins Rob West to share how this concept changed his own view of money. Then, it’s your calls. That’s Faith & Finance Live—where biblical wisdom meets today’s financial decisions—weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new survey says 48% of Americans feel the fun has disappeared from their lives — and the number one thing they call "fun" is watching more TV. Brian From unpacks what that actually says about how we're living and what we're missing. Then: the Enhanced Games happened in Las Vegas, where athletes competed on cocktails of performance enhancing drugs for prize money up to a million dollars, and it raises some uncomfortable questions about human nature and the lengths we'll go to get ahead. A Wisconsin driver removed a road closed sign, drove into fresh concrete, and became an accidental parable. Daniel Darling's Christianity Today piece on whether Christians should smoke weed — and why most of the same arguments apply to alcohol. The story of missionary Davy Lloyd, who was kidnapped and beaten in Haiti, and still preached Christ's love and forgiveness to the men who would kill him. A deep dive into agentic AI and whether it could replace your pastor — spoiler: it already can write your sermons and call your congregation in your voice. And a closing challenge from Randy Alcorn and C.S. Lewis on the question that changes everything: who do you say Jesus is?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Knicks trailed by 22 points with seven minutes left and a 0.1% chance of winning. They won in overtime. Brian From takes that improbable comeback and turns it into the lesson we all need: don't quit until the final buzzer sounds, and remember that your God never gives up on you either. Then, three years after Tim Keller's death from pancreatic cancer, Brian revisits what may be his most powerful message — not one preached from a pulpit, but lived out loud as he faced death. Keller's words on resurrection hope, fighting sin rather than cancer, and why suffering strips away respectable illusions of piety are as gripping as anything he ever wrote. Randy Alcorn follows with eight myths about heaven that most Christians quietly believe — from spending eternity in clouds to heaven being boring to not recognizing the people we love. The biblical picture, it turns out, is far more concrete, physical, and extraordinary than most of us have been taught. Plus: discipleship starts with delight, not curriculum; why a master's degree isn't the job guarantee it used to be; and Brian gets personal about the wave of emotions that comes with kids leaving the nest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most Christians would never fall for the health-and-wealth gospel. But what about the version that promises comfort instead of cash? Or the one that trades a fat bank account for a platform and an audience? Brian From digs into what Relevant Magazine is calling the new prosperity gospel — and it hits closer to home than a TV preacher ever could. Then: Philippians 4 and the peace that doesn't just reduce anxiety but surpasses understanding entirely — what that actually means and how to access it. Russell Moore on teaching the book of Hebrews 20 years apart and discovering the Bible hadn't changed, but he had — and why that's exactly how a living, active Word is supposed to work. Randy Alcorn on learning to hear God's still small voice, and why abiding matters more than straining. And JD Greear on why generosity isn't a financial test at all — it's a trust test. Three motivations from 2 Corinthians 8 that reframe giving entirely: grace, joy, and follow through.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“You were made for a person and a place.  Jesus is the person.  Heaven is the place.”  (Randy Alcorn) 

It's a big Friday in the From household — prom night for two kids at Wheaton Academy — and Brian opens the hour with something deeper than small talk: a reflection on what springtime is actually trying to tell us. From the birds waking up to the grass turning green again, Brian makes the case that God didn't design seasons by accident. The cycle of death and new life is a picture written into creation itself, and for anyone living under the weight of broken dreams or regret, it carries a message worth hearing. From there, Brian revisits a Trevin Wax piece on hypocrisy and repentance that's been rattling around in his head — and lands on a phrase worth sitting with: shoot high and repent often. Moral mediocrity dressed up as humility, Wax warns, is just a different kind of rot. Brian also reflects on NFL wide receiver Cooper Kupp's remarks at a men's event in Minnesota, where Kupp articulated something rare: a clear-eyed understanding of why he plays football, and it isn't for Super Bowls. Then Brian weighs in on the unraveling Mike Vrabel/Diana Russini scandal — not to pile on, but to ask the harder question it raises about the hidden corners in all of our lives. Rounding out the hour: a story on young Americans doing a month-long smartphone detox, a meditation on what the great Bible stories all have in common, and a look at Randy Alcorn's vision of worship, music, and ordinary life in heaven.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Calvary Live is an outreach ministry of GraceFM at Calvary Church in Aurora, Colorado.Resource mentioned was "Heaven," by Randy Alcorn.If you like what you hear on Calvary Live – don't forget tofollow us, and share it with your friends and family!

We spend our lives chasing what feels secure—building bigger barns, stacking up more, trying to create a life that finally feels enough. But what if everything we're building is pointed in the wrong direction? In this message, special guest Randy Alcorn reframes our understanding of wealth, not as something to own, but something to steward. Jesus doesn't just challenge where we put our money—He exposes what has our heart. Because wherever our treasure goes, our heart is already following. Through the lens of eternity, we're invited into a better way to live—not for the temporary “dot” of this life, but for the unending “line” that follows. In Christ, we don't give out of guilt, but as a response to grace—a joyful reorientation of our lives toward what truly lasts. This message calls us to loosen our grip on what won't last and live open-handed, trusting the One who gave everything for us, and discovering that real life—the kind Jesus offers—is found not in keeping, but in giving.

Eternal Perspective: Rewiring How Entrepreneurs Think About Rewards, Heaven, and the Joy of Work Host Justin Forman sits down with Randy Alcorn—author of 65 books including the bestselling Treasure Principle and Heaven—for a conversation that will upend some of the most common misconceptions entrepreneurs carry about rewards, happiness, holiness, and what work looks like in eternity. Recorded with the kind of candor that only comes from two people who genuinely love ideas, this episode digs into why so many Christians—especially driven, ambitious entrepreneurs—have quietly believed things about heaven and reward that simply aren't in the Bible. Randy unpacks the Protestant Reformation's unintended legacy, the Greek roots of "blessed" and "happy," and why Jim Elliot's most famous quote is actually about gain. He also shares the surprising rhythm behind decades of prolific writing—and what it means to partner with God to set something in motion that lasts. Key Topics: Why the happiness vs. holiness debate gets both wrong—and how God actually calls us to both How the Protestant Reformation created an overcorrection against rewards that still shapes evangelical thinking today What entrepreneurs get wrong about heaven—and why a "bucket list" mentality actually reveals a low view of eternity Work before the Fall: Why the new earth will have real labor, real joy, and real collaboration The through line across 65 books: Eternal perspective as the framework for stewarding time, money, and calling Notable Quotes: "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." — Jim Elliot (quoted by Randy Alcorn) "God has not simply called us to holiness. God has called us also to happiness, and there is no conflict whatsoever between them." — Randy Alcorn "We affirm a belief in the resurrection but it's as if we're not wrapping our minds around what it means." — Randy Alcorn

Eternal Perspective: Rewiring How Faith-Driven Investors Think About Reward, Heaven, and Stewardship Host Justin Forman sits down with author and theologian Randy Alcorn — founder of Eternal Perspective Ministries and author of 65 books including Treasure Principle, Heaven, and Law of Rewards — for a conversation that challenges some of the most deeply held misconceptions in Christian life and investing culture. From the Protestant Reformation's unintended legacy on how we think about reward, to a vision of the new earth that reframes the very purpose of stewardship, this episode is essential listening for anyone who wants their financial decisions anchored in eternity. Key Topics Discussed: The Protestant Reformation's unintended impact on how Christians misunderstand reward — and why Scripture actually celebrates God-given incentives for faithful stewardship Why happiness and holiness are not in conflict, and how getting this wrong has distorted how faith-driven investors relate to wealth, generosity, and purpose Heaven and the new earth re-examined: What resurrection bodies, physical work, and eternal creativity reveal about stewarding resources now The Ebenezer Scrooge model of generosity: How true conversion produces radical, joyful giving — not reluctant obligation Randy Alcorn's "eternal perspective" framework — the common thread through 65 books — and how it applies to every investment and stewardship decision Notable Quotes: "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." — Randy Alcorn (quoting Jim Elliot) "God has not simply called us to holiness. God has called us also to happiness and there is no conflict whatsoever between them." — Randy Alcorn "It is more blessed to give than to receive — the word translated 'blessed' is the Greek word Makarios, which means happy-making. It is more happy-making to give than to receive." — Randy Alcorn About Randy Alcorn: Randy Alcorn is the founder of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM) and the bestselling author of 65 books, including Treasure Principle (over 1 million copies sold), Heaven, and Law of Rewards. A former pastor turned full-time writer and speaker, Randy's life work centers on one unifying theme: eternal perspective. He gives away all royalties from his books to support missions and ministry, living out the very principles he writes about.

Former Senator Ben Sasse shares about his recent cancer diagnosis, addressing human frailty and the reality of death, while accepting that God allows suffering. He also shares about redeeming the time by worshipping Jesus and loving your family in the time God has given you. What does heaven teach us about God? In this collection, you’ll hear amazing stories and biblical insights about heaven from popular episodes of Focus on the Family with Jim Daly. Featuring guests like John Burke, Lee Strobel, Randy Alcorn and Erwin Lutzer. Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

Former Senator Ben Sasse shares about his recent cancer diagnosis, addressing human frailty and the reality of death, while accepting that God allows suffering. He also shares about redeeming the time by worshipping Jesus and loving your family in the time God has given you. What does heaven teach us about God? In this collection, you’ll hear amazing stories and biblical insights about heaven from popular episodes of Focus on the Family with Jim Daly. Featuring guests like John Burke, Lee Strobel, Randy Alcorn and Erwin Lutzer. Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

In this Q&A episode, I respond to thoughtful questions submitted on Instagram and Facebook. They varied from what happens when you go to heaven to family devotionals to staying pure in a lustful world.  Following Jesus isn't just about what happens on Sunday morning. It's about the conversations at the dinner table, the arguments we work through, the doubts we wrestle with, and the small, faithful choices we make every day.  That's what Life Between Sundays is all about. Real faith for real life, in all the ordinary, messy moments.   Resources: Are My Loved Ones In Heaven? https://open.spotify.com/episode/7fbuEyzGCxdgAnXVyLzt5C?si=640fc499a56d4739 Heaven by Randy Alcorn: https://a.co/d/0a4v6SaN Calm Thoughts by Max Lucado: https://a.co/d/07aCIyjC Marriage, Parenting, and Walking with the Spirit: https://youtu.be/4sb45JUpdHQ?si=ThMVeskJCZfCvQ2J    Thanks to our amazing partners on this episode:  First Interstate Bank has a mission to help people and their money work better together. They do this by ensuring clients can manage their money conveniently wherever they are while also providing the friendly service. They have over 300 locations throughout 14 states! For more information and to find a location near you, visit https://www.firstinterstatebank.com/   Vern Eide Motorcars is a growing employee-owned company that offers sales, service, and financing of automotive, motorcycle, and power sports lines, including Acura, Ford, Chevy, GMC, Honda, Hyundai and Mitsubishi brands. Whether you live locally or across the country, visit https://www.verneide.com/   Subscribe to Life Between Sundays on YouTube and watch the full episode: youtube.com/@adamaweber  Sign up for The Crew: https://www.adamweber.com/thecrew

Resource mentioned was Heaven by Randy Alcorn.Calvary Live is an outreach ministry of GraceFM at Calvary Church in Aurora, Colorado.If you like what you hear on Calvary Live – don't forget to follow us, and share it with your friends and family!

Will we recognise each other in Heaven? Author Randy Alcorn explains that in heaven, we will see people, places and things from our earthly life, but they may not be in the form you remember! If you've ever wondered about whether you'll be able to hug a loved one or see your dog again in eternity, join us for a hopeful perspective.

What do you picture when you think of a new heaven and a new earth? Author Randy Alcorn describes what we can expect as Christians when our earthly life ends. It's a time you can look forward to, without fear...a time when individuals, communities and nations will all play a part in God's redemptive plan.

Hosted by Pastor Josh SorensenResource mentioned was "Heaven," by Randy Alcorn.Calvary Live is an outreach ministry of GraceFM at Calvary Church in Aurora, Colorado.If you like what you hear on Calvary Live – don't forget to follow us, and share it with your friends and family!

What if your spiritual life has been on autopilot? In a compelling exploration of awakening to God's call, Pastor Jared and Pastor DJ challenge us to examine whether we're truly living out our purpose or merely sleepwalking through our faith. Drawing from three years of ministry growth and 42 recent baptisms, he unveils an ambitious vision to expand hope locally and globally through church remodeling, new campuses, and international missions. Craving a life of deeper purpose and impact? This message illuminates how your next step of faith could be part of a greater movement—one that's transforming lives from Mesa to Togo. Don't miss this pivotal moment to wake up to God's calling and join what He's doing right now!--------------------------------------RESOURCES:Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn: https://a.co/d/0bJKVelTLife Groups - https://onelifeaz.church/lifegroups/--------------------------------------STAY CONNECTED:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/onelifeaz.church/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/onelifeaz.church/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@onelifeaz.church

John 13:36-14:4,36 Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus answered him, “Where I am going you cannot follow me now, but you will follow afterward.” 37 Peter said to him, “Lord, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.” 38 Jesus answered, “Will you lay down your life for me? Truly, truly, I say to you, the rooster will not crow till you have denied me three times.1 “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. 4 And you know the way to where I am going.”Let not your hearts be troubled. The text was chosen months ago. And your pastors believe it was chosen before the foundation of the world for this church, on this Sunday, January 25, 2026.“Let not your hearts be troubled.” (John 14:1)Has your heart been troubled this week?Pastor Jonathan talked last week about Jesus giving his disciples both a new commission — that we love one another — and a new location. For the first time, these men were going to follow Jesus in a world without Jesus. A world without Jesus. We know that kind of world, don't we? Most weeks, we live out there in a world without Jesus, and we see and feel his absence in all kinds of ways… Some of you were deeply troubled long before last Sunday — you've been staring down serious financial trouble. Or stubborn marriage trouble. Or sudden health trouble. Or heartbreaking trouble with your kids. All this might feel small compared to what weighs on you most right now. I know because we pray for you as pastors. You have laid in bed at night and wondered, Jesus, where are you? Why would you leave me here, to deal with this?Every week, we live out there in a world without Jesus. And then once a week, we come together here, and it feels like he's really here… He is of course here, we all know that. We say it at the end of every service, Matthew 28:18-20,“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations. . . . And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”He was with us last Sunday, and he's with us this Sunday, and if he doesn't return, he'll be with us next Sunday, whatever comes. He'll never leave us or forsake us… And yet we can't see him. But when we come together like this, it's almost like we can — the singing, the preaching, the praying, the one-anothering — this gathering pulls his throne back down out of the clouds for an hour or two, just long enough for us to run back in and spend 6 days facing all the things that trouble us. And then, last week, the trouble broken in and interrupted even that. Or did it? It's true that the service we had planned didn't immediately continue as planned, that a scene unfolded that none of us wanted to witness much less experience, but as I watched it all happen, standing right over there, Jesus was so real in the chaos. Jesus was really real. He was real in you.One mom injured herself rushing another family out of the Sanctuary. More moms quickly getting our kids to the safest part of the building. Men like Pastor Mike and the other Pastor Mike and Ben and Tommy and Eli and Warren and others quickly standing to shield others and calmly but firmly surround the protestors. Our people engaging the aggression with calmness, kindness, and truth. Attempting to talk and reason with them. Praying for them, and even with one or two of them. Pastor Jonathan, with mics shoved in his face, responding with Jesus and Jesus and more of Jesus. We're here to worship Jesus! And then since Sunday, you haven't stopped. Every day, sometimes hour by hour, we've watched dozens of you rise to meet some need.I've talked to a number of you now who have gone to visit immigrants in our church community who are hurting and afraid, bringing food and Scripture to strengthen them.You keep stepping up, each in your own way, to comfort one another, to feed one another, to protect one another, to pray for one another.We heard in the sermon last Sunday:“They will know you are my disciples by the way you love one another.”And, brothers and sisters, the whole world knows we worship Jesus because of how you loved one another last Sunday.But last Sunday was troubling — the state of our city is deeply troubling. And the sermons of the last couple months are helping me process the trouble. Just a few verses before we get to verse 1, we heard, John 13:21,“After saying these things, Jesus was troubled in his spirit, and testified, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.'”What does that mean? It means it's not always wrong to be troubled. There is an unholy troubled — an unholy anxiety, an unwillingness to trust God. May God guard us from that. But Jesus knew Judas was going to betray him, he knew why he was going to die, he knew he was going to rise from the dead, he knew he was saving the world from their sins — and he was still troubled. It's not always wrong to be troubled.And so, when Jesus says to his disciples here, with his own heart troubled by Judas, “Let not your hearts be troubled,” I don't think this is mainly fatherly correction — “Boys, stop being so worried and upset about all of this.” He's certainly not afraid to confront and correct them (in fact, he corrects Peter right here in these verses), but that's not the tone here. No, this isn't mainly fatherly correction; this is fatherly encouragement for battle. They needed courage to face the trouble ahead, and a good father knows how to give courage in moments like these. These men have good reasons to be troubled, and he's reminding them they have even better reasons to trust him and take heart. And he gives us reasons right here in these verses.My three main points are questions:How could he leave?Where did he go?How do we get to him?1. How Could He Leave?Before I get to how Jesus strengthens his friends, we need to try and feel their trouble with them. We all know the things we're troubled about — I know what's troubling me — but what was troubling them? I'm thankful that we put the end of John 13 with the beginning of 14. John 13:36, our first verse, helps define the trouble for us:“Simon Peter said to him, ‘Lord, where are you going?'”It's a little hard for us to put ourselves in their shoes, isn't it? They were desperate for a savior, for a king to come and conquer Rome. And they really believed this was their king. He's here. And now this is the moment. We're going up to Jerusalem again, but now we have the promised Messiah, the king, the champion. We're going up there and we're going to win. This time's going to be different. We don't have to live in a world without our king anymore.And then as they gird up their loins and prepare for battle, the Messiah says, “Actually, I'm going to leave you now.” What! It felt like their savior was leaving right when they needed saving. . . . The wine at the wedding, and the bread and fish in the dessert, and even raising Lazarus from the dead, that's all amazing, but we need you now, Jesus. Like, none of that means anything if you don't come through for us now. You're supposed to be the one who delivers us. . . . And now you're deserting us? You're leaving us to try and live here, without you?Now, we know where he's going, and so we want to say, “Hey Peter, relax, it's going to be alright. He's going to die and rise. You're going to win — like really, really win.” But we do the same thing they're doing, don't we? We might not get in Jesus's face like Peter did, but we ask the same questions — we do if we're human anyway. Some of you were asking verse 36 questions this week. Jesus, you're just going to leave us here — with this? Jesus, why did you have to leave? If you loved us, why would you let us go through all this without you? You were already here! You could have just stayed and made all of this right by now. How could you leave?How could he leave? He had to leave. The question we should ask is: Where did he need to go? And that's really what these next verses are about.2. Where Did He Go?“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?”Where was Jesus going when he left his disciples behind? He says he was going to his Father's house, and he was going to prepare a place for them, for us.He's talking about heaven, the place where God dwells. That's where he was going. But why did he call heaven “the Father's house”? . . . The Bible doesn't talk this way about heaven a lot. I think Jesus calls heaven a house at this particular moment, right before intense suffering and opposition, because he wanted them to know that heaven isn't just a shelter for forgiven believers — no more sin, no more fear, no more tears. That would be an improvement on these cities. That would be an improvement on any city. It's certainly better than eternal destruction in hell. No, Jesus wanted these men to know, in the face of great danger, that heaven is more than a shelter; it's a home — it's a place where you belong, where you're loved, where you feel safe. It's a place for family. The heaven Jesus bought for you is a home — and don't you want a new home? Don't you want to be a part of that kind of family? You might think you have a great home, in a great part of town, hemmed in by great neighbors, but even there you're hit with waves of heartache and temptation and uncertainty. Because of sin and all the horrible consequences of sin, we all want to go home. We're all out of place here. And some of us feel that more than others. You feel very, very far from home here. Jesus is going to say in just a few verses, “I will not leave you as orphans . . . ” (John 14:18). I'm going to provide a home for you. A place to belong. A place to be loved. A place where you are fully and finally safe.And in that house, he says, there are many rooms. Why did he say that? Because he wants us to know that there's plenty of room.“For God so loved the world that he sent his only Son that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).Heaven isn't going to be like the inns in Bethlehem when Christ first came. No, there's always room in this house. Do you want to live in this house? There is room for you — and there's room for everyone you know (and everyone they know). If every soul in these cities turned to Jesus, he'd have a place for every single one of them. And that's our mission as a church. This is a big, big house, and our prayer is that God would fill up the rooms — that he would bring many, many in our city home, even through the horrors of what's happening right now. The people in our city are hurting and divided and afraid and they need a King. I've prayed, with all the extra attention on our church, Lord, fill up the rooms! Make Jesus impossible to ignore. And make him impossible to resist. There's always room in this house. He won't turn you away.And if you'll believe in Jesus, not only is there room for you, but there's a room for you. Listen to him carefully, “In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?” When you get to this house, he's not going to be scrambling around to make room (Hey, Epaphraditus, can you bunk with Aquila until we find a spot for Pastor Max?). No, there will be a place prepared for you. And when you get there, you're going to know it's yours. Our kids got a number of things for Christmas this year, but the biggest hit was a case of colored pencils my wife bought for our son. I didn't know my wife had gotten this gift for him, and so when he opened it and I saw his eyes, I cried. I cried! Why did I cry about some colored pencils?Because as soon as I saw it, and saw him holding it, I knew it was the perfect gift for him. You could have shown me that pencil case anywhere in the world, and I would have said that's something my wife would buy for our boy, because she's a good mom who knows and loves her son. No child in the world is going to love this more than he does. That's what your room's going to be like. Your place in heaven. It's going to be obviously yours, prepared for you.Some of you have never had a home like that. A lot of people feel that way in Minneapolis and St. Paul right now. You sit in your home, in this city, and it feels like anything but home here. You're anxious. You're angry. You're troubled. And into that persistent sense of homesickness, Jesus says, “If you're with me, Oh I have a home for you. I'm going to prepare a place for you.”And the best part of the home he makes for you is going to be him. “In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”So he left to prepare a place for you, and he's coming back to make sure you get there safely. Did you hear that? He's not going to prepare a place for you and then waiting to see if you can get there on your own. No, when it's time, he's going to come back, pick you up, and escort you there himself. Not one of you will be lost or left behind.And when you get home, he'll be at the center of everything you love about that place. You'll be happier than you've ever been — Do you believe that about heaven? You'll be happier than ever before, and it's not going to be about the colored pencils he put next to the bed — it's not going to be about all the things you'd want to do if you could do anything you want in heaven (and I think we'll do all those things in heaven). No, you'll be happier than you've ever been, and it'll be because he's there. I promise you. You won't have to convince yourself he's the best. No, it'll be so good to be with him that it'll be a little hard to believe that he's really just there, every day, for thousands and thousands of years.More than anyone besides the Bible, Randy Alcorn has helped me long for that home. He says in his book on heaven,“Nothing is more often misdiagnosed than our homesickness for Heaven. We think that what we want is sex, drugs, alcohol, a new job, a raise, a doctorate, a spouse, a large-screen television, a new car, a cabin in the woods, a condo in Hawaii. What we really want is the person we were made for, Jesus, and the place we were made for, Heaven. Nothing less can satisfy us. . . . Not only will we see his face and live, but we will likely wonder if we ever lived before we saw his face!” (Heaven, 166, 172)So he's going to the Father's house, which has many rooms, there's a room prepared for you, with him at the center, and he's coming back to make sure we get there. But how do we get there?3. How Do We Get to Him?Verse 3:“If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.”You don't think you know. That's exactly what Thomas says in the next verse,“Lord, we don't know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Pastor Jonathan will preach those verses in a couple weeks, but we get a taste even here in these verses. When Jesus says, “I go to prepare a place for you,” what did he mean by prepare? Did he mean he had to leave because he needed to do some work on the house to get it ready for us? Is he framing out doors and laying sheet rock on a couple floors? No, this isn't that kind of preparation. The house is finished. All the rooms are ready. No one has been forgotten, and no detail has been missed. The problem isn't the readiness of the house; the problem at this point in the Gospel of John is that there's no way to get in. When he says he's going to prepare a place for them, he's going to install the front door. And this glorious door is made of two horrifying beams of wood. He's going to die for his friends. That's really why he had to leave. When he says he's preparing a place, he's opening the home. And so yes, where's he going? He's going to the Father's house. But he gets there through the grave. “I am the good shepherd,” he told them. “The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. . . .” (John 10:11). He's going to die for their sins, so that they get to go home. He's going to lay down his life for the sheep, for his friends. As he's leaving them, we realize he's not abandoning them; he's rescuing them. All they can see is the immediate threat — we can relate to that — all they can see is the immediate threat ,but he was focused on a far greater threat. They're focused on little Rome, and he's about to go to war against hell — and he's going to win.Colossians 2:13–15:“And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.” How could he leave? Where was he going? That's where he's going. “And,” he says verse 4, “you know the way to where I am going” (John 14:3–4). Again, you don't think you know the way — we've felt that way this week, haven't we? We don't think we know the way forward, but we do know the way, because we know him.Even You, PeterAs we turn to the Table, then, that leaves us with three verses I've said almost nothing about. This is chapter 13:36–38. I'll be brief here, in closing, but I'm so jealous for you to see this. “Simon Peter said to him, ‘Lord, where are you going?' Jesus answered him, ‘Where I am going you cannot follow me now, but you will follow afterward.' 37 Peter said to him, ‘Lord, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.' 38 Jesus answered, ‘Will you lay down your life for me? Truly, truly, I say to you, the rooster will not crow till you have denied me three times.'”Next verse, next words out of his mouth, in the very next breath as far as we know:“Let not your hearts be troubled.”Think about that. “I will lay down my life for you!” “No you won't, Peter. You're going to fail me, you're going to disown and betray me three times today . . . . and I'm still going to lay down my life for you, so you don't have to be troubled.” He doesn't say that to Judas (he's already left by now), but he says it to Peter. I'm going to prepare a place for you, Peter. Yes, even you. And so I say to you this morning, it doesn't matter how you have betrayed him and how many times you have betrayed him — how many times you have run from him and sinned against him. Maybe you betrayed him three times in the last 24 hours. It doesn't matter where you're coming from this Sunday. And it doesn't matter where you were sitting, standing, or shouting last Sunday. If you will turn and believe, he has prepared a home for you. You can be forgiven. His death can cover you. His wounds can heal you. His house can shelter you. Yes, even you.So, Cities Church, let not your hearts be troubled.

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Passage OutlineTasting Bitter Waters (Exodus 15:22–27)Manna and Quail in the Wilderness of Sin (Exodus 16:1–36)"As at Meribah, as on the Day at Massah" (Exodus 17:1–7)Sermon QuestionsReread Exodus 16:13–18.The omer is a unit of measurement describing what is sufficient for each person — in effect, a cap on what the Israelites are to gather. In modern terms, we call this a "lifestyle cap." (Recall Sam's story about John Wesley and the chambermaid.) Have you ever set a lifestyle cap?Reread Exodus 16:19–21. Moses forbids the Israelites to hoard the manna. In modern terms, hoarding is using our resources to untether ourselves from relationships. What opportunities is God giving you to use your resources to lean into relationships?Reread Exodus 16:22–30.Do you practice a Sabbath — a "day of ceasing"? What's getting in the way?Reread Exodus 16:31–35God commanded Israel to commemorate His provision by reserving manna, doubtless in part to steady their confidence in God's provision over their desert sojourn. Are you confident that God is your provider? If not, how have you commemorated His provision? Where are you "looking" to steady your confidence in your Lord and Master?Resources ConsultedChristopher Wordsworth, Notes on Genesis and Exodus (Oxford, 1875)Leon Kass, Founding God's Nation: Reading Exodus (Yale, 2021)Randy Alcorn, Money, Possessions, and Eternity (Wheaton: Tyndale House, 2003)For further resourcesExplore Randy Alcorn's ministry, Eternal Perspective Ministries.Register for The Ridley Institute's Spring 2026 course, "Practicing Simplicity in the Way of Jesus."Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Sam Fornecker ().

This week, Dr. John Snyder continues reflecting on spiritual weariness by returning to a lecture Charles Spurgeon delivered to ministerial students on what he called “the fainting fits” of a servant of God. Though Spurgeon addresses pastors directly, the wisdom he offers speaks to every Christian who has known seasons of exhaustion, discouragement, or the quiet temptation to lose heart. Drawing from Scripture and Spurgeon's own hard-earned experience, we explore times when faithful servants are most vulnerable to weariness. Spurgeon reminds us that discouragement often follows seasons of great usefulness, precedes seasons of greater blessing, or settles in during long stretches of unbroken labor. He speaks candidly about the weight of criticism, the pain of betrayal, the sorrow of seeing others fall, and the unique loneliness that can accompany spiritual responsibility. Most searching of all, Spurgeon addresses seasons of darkness that seem to come without clear cause—times when resolution fails, human help feels insufficient, and the soul is tempted to turn inward in accusation rather than upward in faith. Yet his counsel is not despairing. Again and again, he points weary believers away from their own strength, moods, and feelings, and calls them to treasure even a single grain of faith more than a ton of spiritual excitement. If you are walking through a season where faithfulness feels costly and joy feels distant, Spurgeon's words remind us that God does not waste the weariness of his servants, and that even in the dark, the safest place is still under the shadow of his wings. If you are in a season of joy and happiness, may we hope these words encourage you to pray for those around you, particularly your pastors, who bear a weight that may be hidden from your view. Show Notes Encouragement for the Depressed by Charles Spurgeon (Forward by Randy Alcorn) https://www.crossway.org/books/encouragement-for-the-depressed-tpb/ Scripture passages referenced: 2 Corinthians 3–4 1 Kings 19 2 Corinthians 12 Mark 6:31 1 Samuel 30 Additional Media Gratiae resources: Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically: https://shop.mediagratiae.org/collections/behold-your-god-series The Church study: https://shop.mediagratiae.org/collections/the-church Through the Eyes of Spurgeon (documentary by Stephen McCaskill): https://shop.mediagratiae.org/products/through-the-eyes-of-spurgeon-feature-edition-dvd-package From the Heart of Spurgeon: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts-1/from-the-heart-of-spurgeon

This week on The Whole Counsel, Dr. John Snyder continues a thoughtful discussion on seasonal depression—whether that season is influenced by winter's effect on our mood and mental state, or by a particularly difficult chapter of life. In the previous episode, Dr. Snyder introduced this theme through a candid letter from John Newton. In this episode, he turns to pastoral wisdom from Charles Spurgeon, drawing from a series of lectures recently published in a new book from Crossway, “Encouragement for the Depressed.” Though Spurgeon originally delivered these lectures to vocational ministers, the gospel-shaped truths he presents are deeply relevant for every Christian. Spurgeon addresses a common misunderstanding in the church: faithful service to God should shield believers from fear, doubt, or sadness. Scripture and experience show otherwise. God may allow seasons of depression and weariness not as a sign of failure, but as a means of deepening compassion, sympathy, and patience. Spurgeon also speaks with unusual honesty about the isolating nature of faithful ministry. Pastors are often entrusted with heavy burdens that must be carried quietly and cannot be shared freely. While congregations may express love and appreciation, they cannot fully know the weight their pastors bear. This calling is a blessing, but it is also costly. For that reason, pray regularly for your pastors and to offer thoughtful encouragement whenever possible. Show Notes Encouragement for the Depressed by Charles Spurgeon (Forward by Randy Alcorn) https://www.crossway.org/books/encouragement-for-the-depressed-tpb/ Check out Jeremy Walker's podcast on Charles Spurgeon: www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts

Send us a textThe time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry is NOW...let's work together! Make sure to check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com ***Are you looking for books that will actually move the needle in your youth ministry and your leadership as a youth pastor? In this episode, we are presenting nine books that don't just inspire, but they reshape how you lead, preach, and disciple within your student ministry. This is a great time to compile your reading list and this conversation aims straight at the places youth pastors feel stuck and offers practical ways forward.=======

Greg responds to the claim that “Jesus taught that we were supposed to love and accept one another,” then he answers questions about numbers being evidence for the existence of God, using a person's suffering as an apologetic, and the salvation of Word of Faith people.   Topics: Commentary: Didn't Jesus teach that we were supposed to love and accept one another? (00:00) Could numbers be used as evidence for the existence of God? (30:00) What do you think about using a person's suffering as an apologetic? (40:00) Do you think people in the Word of Faith movement are saved? (51:00) Mentioned on the Show:  Donate to Stand to Reason God, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel: How Truth Overwhelms a Life Built on Lies by Costi Hinn Related Links: Interview: Natasha Crain on the “He Gets Us” Campaign The Rightful Place of Suffering in the Life of the Christian by Amy Hall Christians, You Will Suffer by Amy Hall Why Does God Let Us Suffer? by Amy Hall How Our Suffering Glorifies God by Amy Hall If God Is Good: Faith in the Midst of Suffering and Evil by Randy Alcorn

One of the clearest signs that God has changed a person's heart is generosity. Scripture makes it plain: giving isn't merely an act—it's a reflection of God's own character. As believers, we give not because we have to, but because God has given richly to us.Today, we explore what the Bible says about generosity and highlight timeless wisdom from Christian voices throughout history. Their words still inspire us today to give joyfully, sacrificially, and with hearts shaped by the gospel.A Biblical Vision of GenerosityThe Bible paints a sweeping picture of generosity—one that reaches far beyond financial giving.Generosity Begins with CompassionJesus taught, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.” Generosity starts with seeing the needs right in front of us and responding with compassion, humility, and love.Giving Flows from the HeartThe apostle Paul reminds us that our gifts should reflect the posture of our hearts: “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”Generosity isn't measured by the amount of money given, but by the joy, gratitude, and trust behind it.Generosity Reflects God's CharacterPsalm 112 connects generosity to righteousness itself. Giving is not just something Christians do—it becomes part of who we are when our lives are aligned with God's heart.Timeless Christian Wisdom on GivingThroughout the centuries, believers have wrestled with what it means to give faithfully. These quotes reflect deep biblical conviction and continue to encourage us today.C. S. Lewis“I do not believe one can settle how much we ought to give. I am afraid the only safe rule is to give more than we can spare.”Lewis reminds us that generosity stretches us—it costs something. Yet in that stretching, God grows us.John Wesley“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can…as long as ever you can.”Wesley captures the spirit of a life poured out for God: comprehensive, intentional, and relentless generosity.A. W. Tozer“Any temporal possession can be turned into everlasting wealth. Whatever is given to Christ is immediately touched with immortality.”Our giving invests in eternity, turning temporary resources into lasting treasure.Billy Graham“Tell me what you think about money, and I will tell you what you think about God… A man's heart is closer to his wallet than anything else.”Graham's words challenge us to consider how closely our financial decisions reveal our spiritual values.Evelyn Underhill“The spirit of adoration is the spirit of generosity, for worship is giving.”True generosity flows out of worship—a recognition that everything we have is a gift from God.Randy Alcorn“Giving affirms Christ's lordship. It dethrones me and exalts Him.”Giving reorders our priorities. It loosens our grip on earthly security and strengthens our trust in Christ.St. Augustine“Charity is a virtue which…unites us to God, for by it, we love Him.”For Augustine, generosity wasn't just an action—it was spiritual formation.Amy Carmichael“You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving.”Our giving is evidence of Christ's love alive in us.St. Paula of Rome“The more we give to Christ, the more we possess Him.”Generosity deepens our fellowship with Christ, reminding us that He is our true treasure.Jesus ChristWhen sending His disciples, Jesus said: “Give as freely as you have received.” (Matthew 10:8)All Christian generosity begins here—in response to His grace.Giving as a Reflection of the GospelWhen we give, we echo the heart of the ultimate Giver. Jesus held nothing back—not even His own life. Generosity isn't defined by the size of the gift but by the surrender of the heart.Every act of giving becomes a small reflection of the love of Christ in us.At FaithFi, we're committed to helping you integrate your faith and finances in a way that reflects God's glory. That's why each issue of our Faithful Steward magazine is designed to encourage you to:Live wiselyGive generouslySee God as your ultimate treasureWhen you become a FaithFi Partner by December 31, you'll receive all four issues of Faithful Steward—plus our brand-new devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure, releasing early next year. Learn more at FaithFi.com/Partner.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm in the process of redoing my will—this is actually the second attorney I've worked with—and I want to leave my house to my daughter, who's on SSDI. The attorneys I've spoken with both mention trusts, but they offer different opinions, which is confusing. What would you recommend? Also, I still owe about seven years on the mortgage at a 3.75% interest rate. Should I pay it off now or keep making payments?How should I advise my 19-year-old granddaughter on investing? Right now, she saves her cash in an envelope or in the bank, but I want to help her get started investing in a simple, conservative way. What's a good company or platform for her to begin with—something that doesn't require a lot of money to start?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)National Christian Foundation (NCF)Schwab Intelligent Portfolios | Betterment | StockpileWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Living simply isn't about deprivation—it's about freedom. And that freedom can unleash extraordinary generosity.God calls us to live with eternity in mind—not clinging to possessions but using what we have for His Kingdom. Randy Alcorn joins us today to talk about how we can loosen our grip on earthly things to open our hands to eternal impact.Randy Alcorn is the founder and director of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM) and the New York Times Bestselling author of more than 60 books, including Heaven, Money, Possessions, and Eternity, The Treasure Principle, and Giving Is the Good Life. His books have been translated into over 70 languages and have sold more than 10 million copies.Simplicity That Leads to GenerosityYou've likely heard the phrase, “Live simply, that others may simply live.” It's a short sentence with a world of meaning behind it—and one that feels increasingly relevant today.Everywhere we look, we see need. It's been that way ever since sin entered the world, but now the sheer scale is staggering—billions of people living in poverty, lacking food, clean water, or access to opportunity. When we consider this, it should be shocking to see how much of a difference it would make if those of us who follow Jesus simply chose to live on less—so that we could give more.This isn't about rejecting good gifts or living in asceticism. It's about reordering our priorities so that what God provides doesn't end with us. Living simply creates margin. And that margin can fuel generosity that transforms lives, both now and for eternity.Some people hear “simplicity” and think of minimalism for its own sake—going off the grid, cutting out every comfort, or proudly living with as little as possible. But simplicity by itself accomplishes very little.You could live the simplest life imaginable, and still not help anyone. The goal isn't simplicity—it's purposeful simplicity that opens the door to generous living.If God blesses you with wealth, there's no shame in that. In fact, that's a great opportunity. The question isn't how much do you have?—but what are you doing with what you have? Go ahead and earn well, but then invest it in God's Kingdom. Use what He's entrusted to you to love Him and to love others.That's where simplicity finds its true purpose—in freeing you to give more boldly, more joyfully, and more eternally.Seeing Life Through the Lens of EternityWhen Jesus said, “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven,” He wasn't speaking in riddles. He was revealing a reality that reshapes everything we own. But if we have no concept of Heaven—if we're not eager for the life to come—then treasures in Heaven won't mean much to us.Scripture promises that God will one day bring Heaven down to Earth—the new Earth, a renewed creation where righteousness dwells. That's our forever home. That's the world we were made for.When we live in light of that eternal perspective, it changes how we view possessions today. Why cling to what's temporary when you can invest in what lasts forever? The things of this world fade—but what's given to God's purposes endures.For many of us, money and possessions have enormous mass. But when we give generously, we shift our center of gravity from earth to eternity. We begin to orbit around God's Kingdom rather than our own comfort. That's freedom.Becoming God's Delivery SystemEverything we have comes from God—and it's meant to flow through us, not stop with us. I like to say we're not buckets, we're pipelines. God's resources are meant to move through our lives to accomplish His purposes.If the FedEx driver delivered a package to himself instead of the intended recipient, we'd say he misunderstood his job. And yet, that's what many of us do with God's provision. We assume it's all for us when in reality, we're the delivery system for His grace.The Bible says, “Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2) Faithful stewards don't hoard. They pass along what belongs to the true Owner.We've all heard the phrase, “God owns it all.” But do we live like it's true? If we really believe that everything we have belongs to Him, then generosity isn't a burden—it's obedience.That changes how we think about earning, saving, and spending. It means asking, “Lord, what do You want us to do with Your money?” That's stewardship in its purest form—managing God's resources for God's glory.Living for the Kingdom, Not the DreamThe Bible doesn't pit generosity against joy. In fact, they belong together. Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6 that God gives us all things richly to enjoy, even as he warns us about materialism.God delights in our joy. He gives good gifts. But He also invites us to hold them loosely. Take that vacation. Enjoy a good meal. But let gratitude and generosity flow together.Living simply doesn't mean rejecting enjoyment. It means finding joy in what pleases God most—seeing our resources advance His Kingdom and bless others in His name.It's easy to justify excess when someone else always seems to have more. But if we're not careful, we can baptize greed in the name of the American dream.God calls us to something far richer—a life rooted in gratitude, freedom, and Kingdom purpose. Living simply and giving generously keeps our hearts anchored in eternity and our hands open to bless others.That's not loss. That's joy. That's freedom. That's treasure that lasts forever.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 72 years old, still teaching at a state school, and I'd like to resume making payments on my student loans. They've been in deferment, so I haven't been able to make my regular $100-a-month payments. Is there any way I can make those payments? I've been told my loans won't qualify for forgiveness until I start paying on them.My husband and I are 55 and 56, and we own a business along with several rental properties. We have about $500,000 we'd like to invest, and we're considering a hybrid life insurance policy with a benefit access rider for long-term care. We'd put in about $155,000 for a guaranteed $250,000 death benefit each, for a total of $500,000, plus any growth. What do you think about that kind of approach?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Heaven: A Comprehensive Guide to Everything the Bible Says About Our Eternal Home (Clear Answers to 44 Real Questions About the Afterlife, Angels, Resurrection, and the Kingdom of God) by Randy AlcornMoney, Possessions, and Eternity: A Comprehensive Guide to What the Bible Says about Financial Stewardship, Generosity, Materialism, Retirement, Financial Planning, Gambling, Debt, and More by Randy AlcornEternal Perspective Ministries (EPM)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Living simply isn’t about deprivation; it’s about freedom. And that freedom can lead to extraordinary generosity. Rather than cling to our possessions, God calls us to have an everlasting mindset and use what we have for His Kingdom. On the next Faith & Finance Live, Randy Alcorn joins Rob West to discuss how we can loosen our grip on earthly things to open our hands to eternal impact. Then, it’s your calls. That’s Faith & Finance Live weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can you care for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of your team, their families, your clients, your vendor suppliers, and your local and global community? In this episode, Jeff and Brandon discuss: God's bigger plan for generous business owners.The six domains of flourishing.The power of doubling down and not giving in to everything.Creating a focus card with your personal mission statement and revisiting it.  Key Takeaways: Bring your team and their families with you on the mission-minded values of your business. If everyone understands the reason why they're working, it can change lives.Everyone in your community can be brought in and invited to participate in having a greater impact through the work God is doing and the people you're serving.Your only role is to be faithful, to trust God, to do what is right, and then lay all the results and the outcomes back in His hands.Love people better. That is the key to being a more philanthropic leader.  "We are creating generational influence by sharing these stories and inviting our people into the work that God's doing through the companies that we get to serve." —  Brandon West Episode References: Rick Warren's The Purpose Driven Life: https://www.purposedriven.com/Flourishing Framework: https://phoscreative.com/flourishing-framework/Gino Wickman's Traction & EOS: https://www.eosworldwide.com/traction-libraryCompassion International: https://www.compassion.com/Randy Alcorn's Heaven: https://store.epm.org/product/heavenDonate to The SAFE Global Fund About Brandon West: Brandon West founded PHOS Creative at the age of 26 out of his home office. A strategy-first digital marketing agency headquartered in Florida, PHOS's growth and culture have been highlighted in the Inc. 5000, Gator100, Florida Trend Magazine, and the Best Christian Workplaces Institute.Author of It Is Not Your Business to Succeed and one of the University of Florida's 40 Gators Under 40, Brandon has shared his insights on over eighty stages, addressing topics such as purpose-driven leadership, people-first culture, business as a ministry, authentic branding, and inbound marketing. Connect with Brandon West:Website: https://phoscreative.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonmichaelwest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PHOScreative/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phoscreativeBook: It Is Not Your Business to Succeed  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Have you ever wondered if your dog, cat, or beloved pet will be in heaven? 

EVERYDAY DISCIPLES S1:E8 | StewardshipWelcome to the Everyday Disciples podcast, where we discuss what it means to follow the way of Jesus in everything, everywhere, every day. This month, we are talking about what it means to be good stewards of our time, talent, and treasures. Andrew West sits down with Ruth Farinha and Joel Winger for today's discussion.SHOW NOTESWE ARE EVERYDAY DISCIPLESAs a reminder of what these conversations are about, at Crossroads, one of our values is that we are everyday disciples.  That means our relationship with God is intended to shape every part of our lives. There is no separation between the mundane and the spiritual. Our life with God isn't confined to a moment on Sunday morning; it is to be lived every moment and in every setting.  So over the course of this season, we are walking through 8 practices.  Today, we are talking about the practice of stewardship.  How do we steward our time, talent, and treasure?  Matthew 6:21 “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”WHAT IS STEWARDSHIPAccording to Ben Patterson, "A steward is someone entrusted with another's wealth or property and charged with the responsibility of managing it in the owner's best interest."The parable of the talents: Matthew 25:14-30STEWARDING TIMEEphesians 5:15-16   Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.James 4:14 14 yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.STEWARDING TALENTS1 Corinthians 12:1-11 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2 You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led. 3 Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit. 4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8 For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills. STEWARDING TREASUREMatthew 6:24 No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.2 Corinthians 9:6-7 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.FINAL THOUGHTSRomans 14:7-8 For none of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself. For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord.PRACTICEWHAT ARE YOU HOLDING TIGHT TO? As you bring your finances, possessions, gifting, and time before the Lord, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you what area has an unhealthy hold on your heart. TIME, TALENT, TREASUREThis month, take an inventory of your time, your talent, and your treasure.  Ask God to guide you in one of these areas where you can  begin giving 1% more.   BOOK & LISTENING RECOMMENDATIONS:TIME:The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction by Justin Whitmel Earley  Do More Better by Tim Challies TALENT:The Holy Spirit: An Introduction (Short Studies in Systematic Theology) by Fred Sanders Practicing the Power: Welcoming the Gifts of the Holy Spirit in Your Life by Sam Storms  Understanding Spiritual Gifts by Sam Storms  Walking in step with the Holy Spirit | Everyday Disciples - S1:E2TREASURE:Money, Possesions, Eternity by Randy Alcorn  

In this final episode of our “Prosperity Gospel, Poverty Gospel, and The Gospel” series, we're diving into the forgotten commands of scripture that every Christian should know when it comes to money. We're not just talking about how to make more or give more — we're talking about how to think biblically about money, handle it with eternity in mind, and why most believers are stuck in financial cycles that don't reflect the heart of God. We break down 1 Timothy 6:17–19 and show how Paul gives us a framework for wealth that isn't about prosperity or poverty — it's about purpose. In this episode, we cover: Why God wants you to enjoy what He's given — but not worship it The #1 thing Paul told the rich (and it's not what you think) How to track your “Net Given” (instead of your net worth) The difference between seed and bread in 2 Corinthians 9 Why your money is meant to flow through you, not just to you How to write a personal “Wealth Purpose Statement” with your family Why generosity now is connected to eternal treasures later

The mission of MinistryWatch is to help Christian donors become more faithful stewards of the resources God has entrusted to them. With a mission like that, it's easy to see why Dana and Bill Wichterman's new book got my attention. The book is Stewards Not Owners: The Joy of Aligning Your Money With Your Faith. Over the years, I've read a lot of books about this topic, from Randy Alcorn's Money, Possessions and Eternity to Jay Richards' Money, Greed, and God. Other books I often recommend on the topic of stewardship include When Helping Hurts by Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett, and Marvin Olasky's The Tragedy of American Compassion. These books are classics of the genre. But I honestly think that Dana and Bill's new book is the book I would recommend  to someone who wants to read just one book on the topic. Their new book is relatively short and highly readable, but it doesn't “dumb down” the deep biblical principles involved. Also, it includes lots of stories of men and women who have lived out the principles they espouse. Those stories make the book come alive, and make the abstract principles seem credible and achievable. Bill Wichterman has spent his career in law and politics, including as Special Assistant to the President in the White House. Bill is the author of the book Dying to Live: Finding Joy In Giving Yourself to God, and the influential essay “The Culture: Upstream from Politics.” He is co-founder of Wedgwood Circle and board president of Faith and Law. Bill holds an M.A. in Political Theory from The Catholic University of America. Dana works for Impact Foundation (Impactfoundation.org), a donor-advised fund specializing in helping Christians align their charitable capital with their unique calling to partner with Kingdom-oriented for-profit companies. Their new book is Stewards Not Owners: The Joy of Aligning Your Money With Your Faith. And, as I promised earlier, we have a way for you to get your own copy of this book. Bill and Dana have donated nearly 200 books to MinistryWatch, and we are going to make them available to you for a gift of any size during the month of July. So, if you would like your own copy of this book, just go to MinistryWatch.com and hit the donate button at the top of the page. We'll get your book in the mail immediately. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. I'm your host Warren Smith. Until next time, may God bless you.

#218: Randy Alcorn is the founder and director of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM), a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching biblical truth and drawing attention to the needy and how to help them.EPM exists to meet the needs of the unreached, unfed, unborn, uneducated, unreconciled and unsupported people around the world.A New York Times bestselling author, Randy has written over sixty books, including Courageous, Heaven, The Treasure Principle, and the Gold Medallion winner Safely Home. His books have been translated into over 70 languages and have sold over 12 million copies.  Before starting EPM in 1990, Alcorn co-pastored for fourteen years Good Shepherd Community Church outside Gresham, Oregon. He has ministered in many countries, including China, and is a popular teacher and conference speaker.* Randy has written for many magazines including EPM's issues-oriented Eternal Perspectives as well as articles for The Gospel Coalition and Desiring God Ministries.  He blogs, is active daily on Facebook and Twitter, and has been a guest on more than 700 radio, television and online programs including Focus on the Family, FamilyLife Today, and Revive Our Hearts. For more on Randy and his books check out EPM.org as well as where books are sold. Enjoy the show! 

Baptism is a powerful, public way to show that our lives have changed through God’s forgiveness—it’s not about earning forgiveness but declaring the freedom we’ve already received. It also encourages us to hold on to hope in the resurrection, which promises a real, renewed life with God, where all pain and brokenness will be healed. Finally, saying “amen” to the Creed is like saying, “Yes, I’m all in” committing to live out these truths every day, letting our faith shape how we love, work, and face life’s challenges. References: “In the new heavens and new Earth, there is no death, no suffering. There are no funeral homes or abortion clinics or psychiatric wards. There are no assaults or missing children or drug rehabilitation centers. There is no bigotry, no muggings, no killings, no worry or depression or economic downturns. There are no wars. There is no unemployment, no anguish over failure and miscommunication. No more of that forever. No conmen, no locks. No death, no mourning, no pain, no boredom, and no arthritis. No handicaps, no cancer, no taxes, no bills. No computer crashes, no weeds, no bombs. There is no drunkenness, no traffic jams or accidents. There are no septic tank backups. There is no mental illness, no unwanted e-mails. There are close friendships, but no cliques. There is laughter, but no put-downs, no laughter at the expense of someone else. There is intimacy, but no temptation to immorality. There are no hidden agendas, no backroom deals, no betrayals. Imagine mealtimes full of stories, laughter and joy, without any fear of insensitivity or inappropriate behavior, anger, gossip, lust, jealousy, hurt feelings, or anything else that eclipses our joy. That will be heaven. Can you imagine the beauty?” - Randy Alcorn “To confess the faith and say ‘amen’ is to make what we believe into something shared and public and recognizable, not just a fleeting thought in the heart. When we say ‘I believe’ in our baptism, or ‘we believe’ in a Sunday liturgy, we are making a commitment that is a pledge of allegiance, joining us to other believers around the world in the body of Christ, some of whom are bound to get into trouble for making this commitment.” - Philip Carey TRANSCRIPT

Baptism is a powerful, public way to show that our lives have changed through God’s forgiveness—it’s not about earning forgiveness but declaring the freedom we’ve already received. It also encourages us to hold on to hope in the resurrection, which promises a real, renewed life with God, where all pain and brokenness will be healed. Finally, saying “amen” to the Creed is like saying, “Yes, I’m all in” committing to live out these truths every day, letting our faith shape how we love, work, and face life’s challenges. References: “In the new heavens and new Earth, there is no death, no suffering. There are no funeral homes or abortion clinics or psychiatric wards. There are no assaults or missing children or drug rehabilitation centers. There is no bigotry, no muggings, no killings, no worry or depression or economic downturns. There are no wars. There is no unemployment, no anguish over failure and miscommunication. No more of that forever. No conmen, no locks. No death, no mourning, no pain, no boredom, and no arthritis. No handicaps, no cancer, no taxes, no bills. No computer crashes, no weeds, no bombs. There is no drunkenness, no traffic jams or accidents. There are no septic tank backups. There is no mental illness, no unwanted e-mails. There are close friendships, but no cliques. There is laughter, but no put-downs, no laughter at the expense of someone else. There is intimacy, but no temptation to immorality. There are no hidden agendas, no backroom deals, no betrayals. Imagine mealtimes full of stories, laughter and joy, without any fear of insensitivity or inappropriate behavior, anger, gossip, lust, jealousy, hurt feelings, or anything else that eclipses our joy. That will be heaven. Can you imagine the beauty?” - Randy Alcorn “To confess the faith and say ‘amen’ is to make what we believe into something shared and public and recognizable, not just a fleeting thought in the heart. When we say ‘I believe’ in our baptism, or ‘we believe’ in a Sunday liturgy, we are making a commitment that is a pledge of allegiance, joining us to other believers around the world in the body of Christ, some of whom are bound to get into trouble for making this commitment.” - Philip Carey TRANSCRIPT

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“We may feel tempted to underestimate the horrors of the Cross, because to recognize them is to admit that our monstrous evil demanded a price so horrific. To make light of our sin is to make light of Christ's cross.”~Randy Alcorn, author “We may take comfort about our souls, if we know anything of an inward fight and conflict. It is the invariable companion of genuine Christian holiness... Do we find in our heart of hearts a spiritual struggle? Do we feel anything of the flesh warring against the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh, so that we cannot do the things we would? Are we conscious of two principles within us, contending for the master? Do we feel anything of war in our inward man? Well, let us thank God for it! It is a good sign. It is strongly probable evidence of the great work of sanctification.”~J.C. Ryle (1816-1900), English pastor, writer, and Anglican bishop of Liverpool “We need to continue to hear the gospel every day of our Christian lives. Only a continuous reminder of the gospel of God's grace through Christ will keep us from falling into good-day—bad-day thinking.”~Jerry Bridges, author, speaker, and college minister “When Satan tempts me to despairAnd tells me of the guilt withinUpward I look and see Him thereWho made an end to all my sin.”~“Before the Throne of God Above” by Charitie Lees Bancroft & Vikki CookSERMON PASSAGEHebrews 10:26-39 (ESV) 26 For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27 but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries. 28 Anyone who has set aside the law of Moses dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses. 29 How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace? 30 For we know him who said, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay.” And again, “The Lord will judge his people.” 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.32 But recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, 33 sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. 34 For you had compassion on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. 35 Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. 36 For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised. 37 For,     “Yet a little while,  and the coming one will come and will not delay;     38 but my righteous one shall live by faith,  and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.” 39 But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls.

In this second half of our two-part conversation, Austin DeArmond returns to the mic to continue exploring some of the most common myths and misunderstandings people have about heaven—especially those that surface in grief and longing after child loss. Austin brings deep scriptural knowledge and a tender heart shaped by personal experience as a bereaved dad himself.Together, we dive into thought-provoking questions like:Do our loved ones in heaven know what's happening on earth?Will our children still be children when we see them again?Is heaven really "up in the clouds"?Will everyone receive the same rewards in eternity?What is the “new earth,” and how does it differ from heaven as we typically imagine it?Will we grow, learn, and discover new things in heaven?Austin also offers biblical encouragement for bereaved parents, reminding us of the hope we have in Christ and the beautiful truth that the best is yet to come.Be Encouraged:   Heaven is not just consolation—it's compensation. As Austin shares, our sorrows will not only be ended but fully mended in God's presence. If you've ever longed to understand more about where your child is now and what lies ahead for you, this conversation is for you.Click HERE to listen to the first half of my "Questions About Heaven" conversation with Austin!  Click HERE and HERE to listen to my conversation with Austin and Valerie DeArmond in which they share the full story of their son Gabriel.  Click HERE and HERE to listen to my conversation with Austin regarding myths and cliches about grief.  Click HERE to connect with Austin's blog.  Click HERE to get a copy of Heaven by Randy Alcorn.  Also available on Amazon.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

My friend, Austin DeArmond, returns to the podcast today to explore some of the most common myths and misconceptions people have about Heaven. As a bereaved Dad, Bible translation consultant, and faithful follower of Christ, Austin brings both personal insight and biblical depth to this important discussion.We talk about questions many of us have wrestled with: Will Heaven be boring? Do we become angels? Will we recognize our loved ones? Is there time in Heaven? What happens to us when we die? With wisdom and grace, Austin walks us through what scripture really says—and doesn't say—about our eternal home, helping us ground our hope in truth rather than cultural myths.Whether you're a bereaved parent or simply someone simply curious about what comes after this life, I believe our conversation will bring comfort and encouragement.Click HERE and HERE to listen to my conversation with Austin and Valerie DeArmond in which they share the full story of their son Gabriel.  Click HERE and HERE to listen to my conversation with Austin regarding myths and cliches about grief.  Click HERE to connect with Austin's blog.  Click HERE to get a copy of Heaven by Randy Alcorn.  Also available on Amazon.Don't Miss Next Week: Be sure to join us again next week as we continue this discussion with Austin. In Part Two, we'll tackle more cultural myths about heaven and dig deeper into what the Bible reveals about our future hope.I would love to hear your thoughts on the show. Click here to send me a message!** IMPORTANT** - All views expressed by guests on this podcast are theirs alone, and may not represent the Statement of Faith and Statement of Beliefs of the While We're Waiting ministry. We'd love for you to connect with us here at While We're Waiting! Click HERE to visit our website and learn about our free While We're Waiting Weekends for bereaved parentsClick HERE to learn more about our network of While We're Waiting support groups all across the country. Click HERE to subscribe to our YouTube channelClick HERE to follow our public Facebook pageClick HERE to follow us on Instagram Click HERE to follow us on Twitter Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the While We're Waiting ministryContact Jill by email at: jill@whilewerewaiting.org

Series: All About HimWeek: 13Title: Revelation 21Scripture: Romans 8:18-25; 1 Corinthians 15:35-58; Revelation 21Preacher: Brian LoweHeaven by Randy Alcorn

Are you living in the 'already' but yearning for the 'not yet'? In this impactful message, we explore how heaven isn't just a distant destination but a present reality in our lives. Delve into the Christian life as an "already but not yet" existence, where we are caught in the tension between our current world and our eternal home. Despite the unknowns about heaven, the Bible mentions it over 450 times, urging us to keep eternity in perspective as we navigate our daily lives.This week in our series, "Heaven Revealed," we journey from Genesis to Revelation, uncovering how heaven touches earth through the story of creation, the tabernacle, and ultimately, Jesus. Discover how the Holy Spirit's indwelling presence makes every believer a living tabernacle, bringing little pockets of heaven to earth. As we await the full realization of our faith, we're reminded that transformation is ongoing, and God's kingdom is here amidst us, shaping us for the future promise.Join us as we walk through scripture and uncover the meaning behind living in this theological tension of the 'already but not yet.' We will explore how this impacts our everyday life and compels us to live as representatives of God's eternal kingdom today. Stay with us next week as we transition from understanding to practical application.At 2Rivers, our mission is to help you become a passionate follower of Jesus so you can experience the life He intended for you and encourage others to do the same. Don't forget to hit that SUBSCRIBE button to stay updated with our content ⏩.LIKE ✔️, SHARE

Has the Decline of U.S. Christianity Finally Stopped? Ryan Clark on X: "Josh Jacobs was supposed to go out with Henry Riggs on the night he was arrested. @iAM_JoshJacobs feels Tina Tintor’s death should’ve been avoided, & Henry Ruggs could be free. In his anger Jacobs expressed as much to Rugged’ family! Jacobs & Ruggs are still close. The two talk https://t.co/XufCJWWzNy" / X Autistic artist, city council implement 'happy to talk' benches to combat loneliness - Not All News is Bad! Watch: Snake falls from restaurant ceiling, lands in diner's margarita Randy Alcorn on X: "I’ve seen a few things about astronaut Butch Wilmore, who was stuck in space for nine months and recently returned to earth, and it appears he is a sincere and committed follower of Jesus. https://t.co/yaRTfHX2QF" / X See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sign-up for my free 20-day devotional, The Word Before Work Foundations, at http://TWBWFoundations.com--Series: Wisdom for Work from PhilippiansDevotional: 2 of 4Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky. (Philippians 2:14-15)Want to “shine among” the non-Christians you work with? Paul tells you how: “Do everything without grumbling or arguing.” Apparently, working without grumbling and complaining was as countercultural in Paul's day as it is in ours.C.S. Lewis once said that, “Hell begins with a grumbling mood.” The inverse is also true. People can get a whiff of heaven through the joyful mood of its citizens. Dr. Randy Alcorn goes so far as to say that, “Happiness in Christ is one of our most powerful evangelistic tools.”The question, of course, is how can we be joyful and work without grumbling when your co-worker replies all to yet another email or your boss makes an urgent request at 4:45 on a Friday? By focusing on what Christ has done for us.Just a few verses before today's passage, Paul writes about how Christ “humbled himself by becoming obedient to death” for you and me (see verse 8). “Therefore,” Paul says in verse 14, “do everything without grumbling or arguing.”The cross is the source of our joy amidst less than desirable circumstances. Once you focus on what Christ accomplished for you at Calvary, grumbling about the smell in the office refrigerator feels ridiculous. Tim Keller once compared it to being a “spiritual billionaire…wringing your hands over ten dollars.”Grumbling is so second nature we often don't notice we're doing it. Here are three simple ways to prevent, confess, and respond to complaining.First, prevent grumbling by writing Philippians 2:14-15 somewhere you'll see it while you work. On a post-it note, your phone background—wherever.Second, confess grumbling by creating a grumble jar. And every time you or someone on your team complains, drop in a dollar (or, if you're like me and never carry cash, an IOU to tally later). My family and I did this recently to break a different habit and it was shockingly effective. We were able to kick our habit in less than a month. Finally, respond to grumbling by expressing gratitude. Think back to the last thing you complained about and thank God for something related to that thing. For example, this morning I grumbled about the house being a mess. But I then said a quick prayer of gratitude that I have children to make said mess.Do whatever it takes to wrestle your grumbling to the ground, believer. Because as Dr. Alcorn put it, “Our happiness makes the gospel contagiously appealing; our unhappiness makes it alarmingly unattractive.”

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven… “ -   Matthew 6:19-20Would you like to rethink your approach to money? Six powerful principles can shift your focus from the temporal to the eternal…and best-selling author Randy Alcorn is here to talk you through them.Randy Alcorn is the founder and director of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM) and the New York Times Bestselling author of more than 60 books, including Heaven, Money, Possessions, and Eternity, The Treasure Principle, and Giving Is the Good Life. His books have been translated into over seventy languages and have sold over ten million copies.The Foundation: God Owns EverythingWhen we take our cues from the world, it's easy to develop a flawed perspective on money. But Romans 12:2 calls us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. That transformation begins with the first principle:God owns everything, and I am His money manager.This truth alone can radically change how we view our finances. If everything belongs to God, then we are simply stewards of His resources. Just like a financial manager oversees someone else's wealth, we must ask God what He wants us to do with what He has entrusted to us. Thankfully, He has provided clear guidance in His Word.Imagine borrowing a pencil from someone and then breaking it in half. If the pencil belonged to you, that wouldn't be a big deal. But if it belonged to someone else, breaking it without permission would be wrong. The same is true with money—when we recognize that all we have belongs to God, it changes how we use it.Our Hearts Follow Our MoneyThe second principle in The Treasure Principle is equally profound:Our heart always goes where we put God's money.This truth comes directly from Matthew 6:21: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Many people believe that their giving will naturally follow their heart's desires. But Jesus turns that idea upside down: If we want to cultivate a heart for God's kingdom, we need to start by investing in it.Want to develop a deeper love for missions? Start giving to missionaries. Want to care more about your church? Invest financially in its ministry. Our hearts follow our treasure.Cultivating an Eternal PerspectiveAnother key principle is:Heaven (On Earth) is our home.Hebrews 11:16 tells us that believers are “citizens of a better country, a heavenly one.” Recognizing that this version of the world is not our final destination changes how we use our money. Instead of accumulating wealth here, Jesus calls us to store up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20).But what does that mean? It doesn't mean stockpiling gold and silver in some celestial bank. Instead, our eternal treasures come from investing in God's work—supporting ministries, spreading the gospel, and using our resources to help those in need. The money we use today to advance God's kingdom will have eternal significance.Faithful stewardship isn't about earning salvation—it's about responding to God's generosity by using our resources wisely and storing up treasures that will last for eternity.Prosperity with a PurposeFinally, The Treasure Principle reminds us that:God prospers us not to raise our standard of living but to raise our standard of giving.It's easy to assume that when God blesses us financially, it's simply for our own benefit. But Scripture calls us to a different mindset. Like a delivery driver who is entrusted with a package to deliver—not to keep—God blesses us so that we can bless others.This doesn't mean we can't enjoy God's blessings, but it does mean that we should view our financial increase as an opportunity to be more generous, not just to accumulate more for ourselves.At the heart of The Treasure Principle is a simple but profound challenge: to see God as our ultimate treasure and money as a tool for His purposes. When we grasp this, it changes everything—how we spend, save, and give.If you haven't read The Treasure Principle, we highly encourage you to pick up a copy. It's a quick read but has the power to reshape your financial perspective for eternity.Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly MagazineRandy's full article, Understanding the Treasure Principle, is featured in the first issue of Faithful Steward, FaithFi's new quarterly magazine. To receive this issue of the magazine and an issue every quarter, become a monthly partner at $35 a month or $400 a year by going to FaithFi.com/Give. Let's be faithful stewards together, investing in what truly lasts.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a friend who's married to an unbeliever, and her spouse sees no value in money beyond spending it. Do you have any advice for how she can make a budget and share it with her spouse so that his eyes might be open to the importance of financial stewardship?Should we tithe on money that we receive from an insurance payout?I have a 401(k) here at work. I'm 67 years old, and I'd like to withdraw money to purchase a car for $25,000 versus taking out a loan and paying interest. Is that something I'm allowed to do, or do I have to talk to the plan administrator? Is it up to the administrator, or is it legal for me to do that?Should my daughter put her maturing CDs into a high-yield money market account instead of rolling them over so the money is more accessible if she needs to buy a car?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly MagazineMoney, Possessions, and Eternity: A Comprehensive Guide to What the Bible Says about Financial Stewardship, Generosity, Materialism, Retirement, Financial Planning, Gambling, Debt, and More by Randy AlcornThe Treasure Principle, Revised and Updated: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving by Randy AlcornThe Law of Rewards: Giving What You Can't Keep to Gain What You Can't Lose by Randy AlcornWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Would you like to rethink your approach to money? Six powerful principles can shift your focus from the temporal to the eternal when it comes to your finances. On today's Faith & Finance Live, Rob West will welcome Randy Alcorn to help us understand the Treasure Principle. Then Rob will answer some questions on various financial topics. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Janet Willis, the female "Randy Alcorn," makes new arguments that the New Jerusalem, New Heavens, and New Earth will be established at the beginning of the millennium. Willis also shows that John's New Jerusalem and Ezekiel's millennial city are identical, and much more in her What on Earth Is Heaven Like?: The New Creation and the New Jerusalem.   https://amzn.to/3DeAgwH                 Become a monthly supporter: https://www.alankurschner.com/partner/

Randy Alcorn is the founder of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM) and the bestselling author of over 60 books, including Heaven, The Treasure Principle, and If God Is Good. With decades of ministry experience, Randy's work focuses on inspiring an eternal perspective in everyday life, emphasizing biblical truths about heaven, suffering, and stewardship. His ministry reaches across the globe, equipping individuals to live with purpose and hope. In this episode, Randy dives deep into the topic of grief and shares personal reflections on the loss of his beloved wife, Nanci. He offers profound insights into navigating grief through faith, the power of God's promises, and the importance of community in times of loss. Drawing from his new booklet, Grieving with Hope: Walking with Jesus Through Heartbreak, Randy discusses practical ways to process grief while holding onto the certainty of eternal life through Jesus Christ. “We do not grieve as those who have no hope. Biblical hope is a blood-bought certainty anchored in God's promises.” – Randy Alcorn "Grief is the absence of someone who is so connected to you that you begin to question your own identity." - Randy Alcorn "We do not grieve as those who have no hope, but we still grieve deeply and profoundly." - Randy Alcorn This Week on The Wow Factor: The loss of Randy's wife, Nanci, and the profound lessons she taught about faith and eternity How Psalm 23 served as a foundation for Nanci's trust in God during her battle with cancer The role of community in walking through grief and how Randy's small groups supported him Why Randy believes grief is universal and how to grieve with hope, grounded in God's promises The spiritual and emotional value of reflecting on eternal treasures instead of temporal concerns How Nanci's journaling and spiritual insights continue to inspire Randy and their family Practical advice for those navigating grief, including the importance of self-care and staying rooted in Scripture Randy Alcorn's Words of Wisdom:Grief is a natural part of life, but as Christians, we grieve differently because of the unshakable hope we have in Christ. Lean into community, embrace God's promises, and focus on living for eternity. Connect with Randy Alcorn: Randy Alcorn's Books Eternal Perspective Ministries Website About Randy Alcorn Randy's Facebook Connect with The Wow Factor: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook X (formerly Twitter)