Podcasts about Red Sea

Andrew and Ben discuss Kevin Warsh's first Fed meeting as Chair with key questions on how hawkish he'll be, how he describes working with Powell, and whether he'll discuss Fed reform, today's retail sales print and yesterday's strong 20-year auction, UK inflation surprising to the downside at 2.8%, and the UAE's longer-term plan to cut dependency on the Strait of Hormuz to zero through Gulf of Oman port expansion, new pipelines to the Red Sea, and expanded rail and road networks.Join our live YouTube stream Monday through Friday at 8:30 AM EST:http://www.youtube.com/@TheMorningMarketBriefingPlease see disclosures:https://www.narwhal.com/disclosure

Mandatory minicamp is now in the rearview mirror. Craig Grialou, Zach Gershman, and former Cardinals linebacker Lorenzo Alexander take a closer look at the biggest storylines heading into training camp. The guys discuss several encouraging injury updates, including Garrett Williams' surprisingly fast recovery timeline, the potential impact of Walter Nolen III and Denzel Burke in their second season, what a healthy Mack Wilson Sr. means for the defense, and why Trey McBride's historic 2025 season may only be the beginning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Detailed Sermon Summary “Standing Where God Made a Way” Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min. Part 5 of the “Rooted & Grounded”  Watch the 14 minute video: "The Road to Juneteenth" Pastor Bryan Hudson's sermon, “Standing Where God Made a Way,” connects the biblical account of Israel crossing the Jordan River in Joshua 4 with the historical meaning of Juneteenth. The central message is that believers, families, communities, and nations must remember the places where God brought deliverance, because remembrance preserves gratitude, identity, wisdom, and responsibility. The sermon begins by framing Juneteenth as more than a national holiday. It is presented as a memorial of deliverance and a reminder that God makes a way where there is no way. Dr. Hudson connects Juneteenth to the broader biblical theme of God delivering people from bondage, especially Israel's deliverance from Egypt and later their crossing into the Promised Land. He also references his video, “The Road to Juneteenth,” which traces the journey from emancipation declared to freedom enforced. Joshua 4: Remembering the Crossing The primary Scripture is Joshua 4:1–11, where God commands Joshua to have twelve men, one from each tribe of Israel, take twelve stones from the Jordan River after the people crossed on dry ground. These stones were to be set up as a memorial so that future generations would ask, “What do these stones mean?” The answer would preserve the story of how God cut off the waters of the Jordan and brought His people through. Dr. Hudson explains that this crossing parallels the Red Sea crossing under Moses forty years earlier. In both cases, God removed a barrier that His people could not remove on their own. The Jordan River was not always deep, but it did flood seasonally. God stopped the waters so Israel could cross, then instructed them to take stones from the riverbed—stones that were normally hidden—and make them visible as a testimony. A key insight is that the stones were not objects of worship. They were reminders of the God who acted. The stones pointed beyond themselves to God's power, faithfulness, and deliverance. Juneteenth as a Stone of Remembrance Dr. Hudson then connects Joshua's stones to Juneteenth. Just as Israel needed memorial stones to remember deliverance, African Americans and the nation need Juneteenth as a memorial of freedom delayed, freedom enforced, and freedom remembered. He explains that the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1862 and took effect on January 1, 1863, but freedom was not fully enforced in Texas until June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston and announced General Order No. 3. This shows one of the sermon's major historical lessons: freedom declared is not always freedom practiced. Justice often requires enforcement. Juneteenth, therefore, is not merely a celebration. It is a memorial, an educational moment, and a call to remember both God's deliverance and the human struggle required for justice. Theological Foundation: Human Dignity and the Image of God A major theological point in the sermon is that all people are made in the image and likeness of God. Because of this, no person or group has the right to dominate, dehumanize, enslave, or exploit another. Dr. Hudson emphasizes the importance of saying “enslaved people” rather than simply “slaves.” To call someone a slave can make bondage sound like their identity. But their true identity is that they were human beings made in God's image who were enslaved by others. This point becomes the moral foundation for the sermon's critique of slavery, racism, domination, and exploitation. Slavery was especially evil because it involved humans made in God's image enslaving other humans made in God's image. A Sober View of American History The sermon also calls for honesty about American history. Dr. Hudson says Juneteenth should never have been necessary. If the nation had truly lived up to biblical principles from the beginning, enslaving Africans would never have been tolerated. He notes that the founders debated slavery and compromised in order to form the nation. Some opposed slavery, while others wanted to preserve it because of the economic benefits of free labor. That compromise, he explains, carried a terrible cost and eventually helped lead to the Civil War. Dr. Hudson does not reject love for the nation, but he urges listeners to avoid “rosy narratives” that ignore the blood, suffering, and injustice woven into the nation's history. The proper response is gratitude mixed with sobriety, remembrance, and responsibility. God Still Makes a Way The sermon repeatedly returns to the message that there are always barriers to cross. God parted the Red Sea under Moses. God stopped the Jordan River under Joshua. God made a way for enslaved people through emancipation and enforcement. And God still makes a way for His people today. Dr. Hudson says that today's breakthroughs may not always look as dramatic as the Red Sea or Jordan crossings, but the principle remains the same: when God brings people through obstacles, they should remember, testify, and move forward in faith. Memorials Are Educational Another key theme is that memorials are meant to teach. In Joshua 4, the stones were designed to provoke questions from children. When the children asked what the stones meant, the older generation was responsible to explain God's deliverance. Dr. Hudson applies this to holidays such as Juneteenth, Thanksgiving, Easter, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and others. These are not merely days off or occasions for celebration. They are opportunities to educate, remember sacrifice, and pass meaning to the next generation. He warns that routines, celebrations, and comfort can obscure legacy. People can enjoy the benefits of history without remembering the sacrifice that made those benefits possible. Therefore, remembrance must be intentional. Standing Where God Made a Way The title phrase, “Standing Where God Made a Way,” captures the sermon's central conviction. Dr. Hudson teaches that many of us are living in places of blessing that exist because God worked through previous generations. We are standing on ground made possible by God's intervention, people's prayers, sacrifices, faith, courage, and perseverance. This applies personally, spiritually, historically, and nationally. We stand where parents, grandparents, ancestors, saints, activists, soldiers, and faithful servants endured hardship so future generations could live differently. Twelve Contemporary Stones of Remembrance Near the end, Dr. Hudson gives twelve “stones” that people and families can set up as memorials today. These are practices and places that help preserve memory, identity, and gratitude: Education — learning the truth and teaching it to others. Vicarious living — learning through the lives and experiences of others rather than repeating their mistakes. Identification — seeing oneself connected to faithful and courageous people from the past. Honoring — highly valuing parents, elders, ancestors, and those who made sacrifices. Testimony — telling what God has done personally and collectively. Studying history — learning the real story, not only simplified or sanitized versions. Serving others — turning remembrance into action. Shared experience — building memories and meaning together as families and communities. Museums — places such as Freetown Village that preserve and teach history. Family gatherings — moments that connect generations. Anniversaries — recurring opportunities to remember God's faithfulness. Juneteenth — a national and spiritual stone of remembrance that points to deliverance, justice, and responsibility. These “stones” help people stay rooted. They prevent forgetfulness. They help connect the present generation to legacy and history. Final Exhortation The sermon closes with a call to preserve memories that are worth preserving. Dr. Hudson urges listeners to be intentional with their children, grandchildren, families, and communities. If people do not connect present blessings with past deliverance, they may lose their way in the future. The final prayer thanks God for His goodness, for ancestors and heroes known and unknown, and for the fact that we are standing where God made a way. The prayer also asks God to help His people remember, honor, educate, and never take His blessings—or the people He used—for granted. Core Message The sermon's core message is: God makes a way through impossible barriers, and His people must remember where He brought them from. Memorials—whether stones, holidays, testimonies, museums, family stories, or historical observances like Juneteenth—help us honor God, educate future generations, and move forward without forgetting the sacrifices that made our present blessings possible.

What are we gonna do now? That's the question a lot of us are asking as financial pressure and uncertainty keep piling up. This week we're looking at the Israelites trapped at the edge of the Red Sea in Exodus 14, a moment where fear, sarcasm, and worst-case thinking took over. Here's what I keep coming back to: fear and faith are both about what we can't yet see. So when the pressure hits, which one will we let lead?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Exodus 1-14 reminds us that God's sovereignty operates on a timeline far beyond our immediate understanding. We discover how God positioned the Israelites in Egypt for 430 years, transforming 70 people into a mighty nation in what can be called a 'holy incubator.' The message challenges us to see our own seasons of waiting and difficulty through this lens—not as abandonment, but as divine preparation. Moses' journey from palace prince to desert shepherd to deliverer illustrates a profound truth: God often humbles us before He uses us. For 80 years, God prepared Moses, stripping away worldly confidence and replacing it with dependence on divine power. The ten plagues weren't random acts of judgment but strategic demonstrations that systematically dismantled Egypt's entire pantheon of false gods, proving that our God alone is supreme. The Passover foreshadows the ultimate deliverance we have in Christ—the spotless Lamb whose blood covers us from judgment. Yet perhaps the most convicting element is what happened after the Red Sea crossing. Despite witnessing unprecedented miracles, the Israelites complained within days. We must ask ourselves: Are we guilty of the same forgetfulness? Do we quickly forget God's faithfulness when new challenges arise? This narrative calls us to cultivate a memory of God's goodness, to view ourselves through His eyes rather than our insecurities, and to trust that He who delivered Israel can deliver us from whatever bondage we face.

Motion Church | Walk, Week 3: "Walk This Way (Not Like an Egyptian)" When you're sandwiched between an army and the sea, what does it look like to walk the path God has called you to? Continuing the Walk series — yes, the title is a nod to that 80s classic — this week heads back to the Old Testament for the story of the Exodus, where the children of Israel find themselves trapped: "they're between an Egyptian army and a wet place." But God parts the Red Sea, and the Israelites walk through on dry ground while Pharaoh's army is swept away behind them. Here's the principle drawn from it: "When you walk the path that God has called you to, he will provide for you." And here's the detail easy to miss: "They walked from slavery to salvation on dry ground. They walk from bondage to freedom on dry ground, and the invitation stands for me and you to do the same thing." This isn't just an ancient story — it's personal. From the moment you take that first step toward God, "God starts to take care of things that you didn't even think about." Things you didn't think you could ever walk away from — habits, attitudes, relationships — start losing their grip. "You didn't think you'd ever be able to walk away from that situation, but look at you now." But there's an important distinction: "God will always provide for the needs that you have. That does not mean that he provides for the wants that you have." As Jesus said in Matthew 7, "how much more will your father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him?" And provision doesn't always come the way we expect — sometimes it comes through people. "When you are walking the right path, God will put the right people on your path." Some of them are dry ground when you're stumbling. Some are an umbrella in the storm. "We need each other to accomplish all of the things that God has called us to accomplish... you cannot do it alone." Also covered: a heartfelt moment of prayer and solidarity for the McAllister family, a longtime part of the Motion Church community, as the church walks together through "good, bad, ugly... whatever comes." Walk the path. He'll provide for the needs you have — and the people you need along the way.

Big Stories About a Big God: Part 3 – The Red Sea

What if the breakthrough you're praying for is waiting on the other side of your next step? Discover how God parts seas when we move forward in faith. Connect with Journey Christian Church: Website: journeychristian.com New Here? journeychristian.com/new Need Prayer? journeychristian.com/prayer Next Steps: journeychristian.com/nextsteps Instagram: @fljourneychurch Facebook: fljourneychurch

We have reached the end of our Exodus series! Chapter 40 concludes with the glory of the Lord filling the tabernacle, marking the completion of the structure, but not the end of the journey. The Israelites are not yet in the Promised Land. So why is this 40-chapter story so central to the biblical narrative? Because Exodus is not just background history—it is a legally binding testimony that points directly to the coming of a greater Messiah.Key Points1. A Testimony to the FutureHebrews 3:5 states that Moses was faithful as a servant, bearing witness to what would be spoken by God in the future. The Greek word used here for servant (therapon) implies an intimate, trusted servant whose testimony carries legal weight. Moses is a credible witness establishing the criteria for the Messiah. Anyone claiming to be the Messiah must be greater than Moses.2. Jesus is the Greater IntercessorMoses: Interceded for the Israelites on a hill to win a physical battle against the Amalekites. His hands were held up by his friends (Exodus 17).Jesus: Interceded on the hill of Calvary to win the eternal war against sin and death. His hands were held up by nails—and by the joy set before Him.3. Jesus is the Greater Deliverer & SacrificeMoses: Delivered the Israelites physically from Egypt, but he could not lead them all the way into the Promised Land. The Old Covenant required sacrifices to be made over and over again, like weed killer that only offers temporary relief.Jesus: Shared in our humanity to break the power of death and deliver us spiritually (Hebrews 2:14). As our High Priest, He offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, and then He sat down—because the work was finished (Hebrews 10:11-12). Note: Joshua (Yeshua), whose name points to Jesus, was the one who ultimately led the people into the Promised Land.4. Jesus is the Greater TabernacleMoses: Built the physical tabernacle where God's presence dwelled, but the people were kept out by a thick curtain and the barrier of sin.Jesus: The Word became flesh and "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14). When Jesus died on the cross, the physical curtain in the temple was torn in two. Now, through the blood of Jesus, we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place. Better yet, through the Holy Spirit, believers have become living tabernacles.5. The Warning: Guard Against a Hard HeartThe Israelites saw the Red Sea part and manna fall from the sky, yet their hearts grew hard and they built a golden calf. Signs and wonders cannot replace an intimate relationship with God. Hebrews warns us not to harden our hearts as they did, but to encourage one another daily. We guard against a hard heart through personal devotion and active participation in a faith community.ConclusionWhen Moses asked God, "Show me your glory," God tucked him in a rock and only allowed him to see His back. Moses did not get exactly what he asked for in that moment, nor did he get to enter the Promised Land in his lifetime. However, God does not forget our prayers. Centuries later, on the Mount of Transfiguration (Matthew 17), Moses finally stands in the Promised Land, face-to-face with Jesus, whose face shone like the sun. Moses finally saw the full glory of God. God is worth the wait.Calls to ActionExamine Your Heart: Are there areas where your heart has grown hard or calloused toward God?Speak it Out: If you are struggling with unbelief or a hard heart, confess it to someone in your faith community this week to break its power.Trust the Delay: If you have been waiting a long time for a prayer to be answered, look to Moses. Trust that God's timing is perfect and His glory is worth the wait. Support the show*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI. Please notify us if you find any errors.

The Israelites stood trapped — the Red Sea in front of them, Pharaoh's army thundering behind them. No path forward, no path back. By every human measure, they were finished. Drowning or destruction seemed like their only options. But they cried out to the Lord. And the God who hears, sees, and delivers stepped in. He didn't just make a way — He created a path no one had ever seen before. He parted the Red Sea and led His people through on dry ground, silencing every threat behind them.

Welcome to Day 2882 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2882 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 135:8-14 Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2882 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2882 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. The Title for Today's Wisdom-Trek is: The Sovereign of History – Dismantling the Rebel Giant Kings In our previous stop along this grand, poetic landscape, we explored the opening movement of Psalm One Hundred Thirty-Five, where we witnessed a magnificent temple liturgy that unmasked the false gods of the nations. We watched as Yahweh effortlessly demonstrated His total, seamless mastery over nature—commanding the clouds, directing the lightning, and releasing the wind from His royal celestial storehouses. We saw how the psalmist executed a brilliant, razor-sharp polemical attack against Baal, stripping the Canaanite storm god of his fraudulent resume. We discovered the comforting truth that Israel is Yahweh's segullah—His private, prized, and treasured possession, chosen out of the chaotic landscape of a disinherited world. Today, the temple liturgy takes a powerful, dramatic turn. The psalmist shifts his focus away from Yahweh's absolute sovereignty over nature, and directs our eyes to His absolute, undeniable sovereignty over human history and spiritual geography. He takes the traveling assembly on a historical tour, demonstrating that the True King doesn't just manage the weather; He systematically dismantles the greatest earthly emp'res, and violently crushes the giant rebel kings who attempt to block the expansion of His kingdom. We are exploring Psalm One Hundred Thirty-Five, verses eight through fourteen, in the New Living Translation. Let us step onto the trail, adjust our cosmic lenses, and watch the Righteous Judge execute justice against the principalities of darkness. The First Segment is: The Judgment of Egypt's Incarnate Gods Psalm One Hundred Thirty-Five: verses eight and nine. He destroyed the firstborn in each Egyptian home, both people and animals. He performed miraculous signs and wonders in Egypt against Pharaoh and all his people. The historical narrative begins in the dark, oppressive brick-kilns of Egypt, tracing the opening lines of Israel's great cosmic liberation. “He destroyed the firstborn in each Egyptian home, both people and animals. He performed miraculous signs and wonders in Egypt against Pharaoh and all his people.” To fully comprehend the sheer scale of the spiritual warfare embedded in these familiar words, we must look past our modern, secular history books, and view the Exodus through the profound lens of the Ancient Israelite divine council worldview, as masterfully taught by Doctor Michael S. Heiser. In the book of Exodus, chapter twelve, verse twelve, Yahweh explicitly declares the ultimate, underlying purpose of the plagues. He states, “Against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment; I am Yahweh.” The Exodus was not merely a political dispute over human labor; it was an open, aggressive courtroom trial, and a declaration of war against the corrupt, territorial elohim of the Nile. Egypt was the premier superpower of the ancient world, operating under the direct spiritual inspiration of powerful, rebellious members of the heavenly host. Pharaoh himself was not viewed merely as a human politician; he was worshiped as an incarnate god—the living proxy, and the supreme avatar, of the rebel spiritual principalities. When Pharaoh oppressed the chosen family of God, he was acting as the mouthpiece for the cosmic rebellion. Therefore, when Yahweh unleashed His miraculous signs and wonders, He was systematically target-shooting the Egyptian pantheon. He turned the Nile into blood to humiliate the river gods; He blocked out the sun to blind the sun god, Ra; and He paralyzed the land with darkness. The terrifying, ultimate climax of this cosmic execution occurred when the Lord destroyed the firstborn of both people and animals. In the ancient Near East, the firstborn son represented the strength, the legal inheritance, and the future legacy of the household. By striking down the firstborn—including the firstborn son of Pharaoh himself—Yahweh permanently broke the spiritual back of the empire. He demonstrated that the gods of Egypt were utterly helpless, completely unable to protect their own biological and spiritual lineages from the superior authority of the Creator. The proud, arrogant principalities of the Nile were weighed in the celestial balances, found wanting, and publicly stripped of their power. The Second Segment is: Dismantling the Gatekeepers of the Underworld Psalm One Hundred Thirty-Five: verses ten through twelve. He struck down great nations and slaughtered mighty kings— Sihon king of the Amorites, Og king of Bashan, and all the rulers of Canaan. He gave their land as an inheritance, a special possession to his people Israel. The historical tour moves from the waters of the Red Sea, to the rugged, bloody battlefields on the eastern side of the Jordan River. “He struck down great nations and slaughtered mighty kings—Sihon king of the Amorites, Og king of Bashan, and all the rulers of Canaan. He gave their land as an inheritance, a special possession to his people Israel.” To the casual reader, the names Sihon and Og might seem like obscure, boring footnotes from ancient military history. But to the ancient Israelite pilgrim singing this song, these two names triggered a profound sense of awe, and holy terror. These were not ordinary human kings; they were the terrifying, giant gatekeepers of the cosmic rebellion. Let us unpack the spiritual geography of these territories through Doctor Heiser's research. In the book of Deuteronomy, we discover that Og, the king of Bashan, was a literal remnant of the giant Rephaim. His massive iron bedstead was over thirteen feet long! In the ancient Near Eastern mindset, the Rephaim were not just tall people; their lineage was directly connected to the Nephilim—the hybrid offspring resulting from the spiritual corruption of the Watchers recorded in Genesis chapter six. They were the physical, and spiritual, anomalies produced by the rebel gods to contaminate the human race, and block the redemptive plans of Yahweh. Furthermore, the region of Bashan was universally recognized as the geographic and spiritual epicenter of darkness. Located at the foot of Mount Hermon—the exact site where the rebel angels originally staged their mutiny—Bashan was poetically referred to as the "place of the serpent," and the literal "gate of the underworld." Sihon and Og ruled over this demonic stronghold, acting as a massive, supernatural wall designed to intimidate Israel, and prevent them from ever entering the Promised Land. When Yahweh struck down great nations, and slaughtered these mighty giant kings, He was not just clearing a physical highway for Israel. He was executing a spectacular, cosmic cleansing of the geography. The Divine Warrior marched into the very territory of the dead, confronted the most terrifying, monstrous proxies of the rebel council, and completely obliterated them from the face of the earth. He proved that giant stature, demonic lineages, and ancient spiritual fortresses are absolutely nothing but dust in the presence of the Almighty. And look at the ultimate, glorious result of this victory in verse twelve: “He gave their land as an inheritance, a special possession to his people Israel.” This is the beautiful, geographic reversal of the Tower of Babel. At Babel, humanity was disinherited, and handed over to the rule of the lesser elohim. But here, Yahweh violently reclaims the land from the rebels, completely evicts the demonic tenants, and hands the territory over to His segullah—His special possession. The Promised Land becomes a restored beachhead of Eden, a sacred space where the cosmic order, truth, and righteousness of the true King can finally flourish. The Third Segment is: The Eternal Courtroom Verdict Psalm One Hundred Thirty-Five: verses thirteen and fourteen. Your name, O Lord, endures forever; your fame, O Lord, is known to every generation. For the Lord will vindicate his people and have compassion on his servants. Having demonstrated Yahweh's absolute mastery over history, the psalmist transitions into a magnificent, courtroom declaration of praise, drawing a sharp contrast between the mortality

Steven Spielberg has made five movies about aliens, and his newest — Disclosure Day — might be his most theologically provocative yet. Adam Holtz from Plugged In joins Brian From to break down a film where Emily Blunt plays a TV reporter chosen by extraterrestrials as their mouthpiece, a government whistleblower is on the run, and two nuns grapple with what alien contact would mean for their faith. Spielberg has been openly asking the question: if it were proven that aliens exist and the government has known, what would that do to your belief system? Adam also flags an interesting Gospel Coalition piece arguing the whole film tracks the Exodus narrative — Moses, Aaron, Pharaoh, parting of the Red Sea — which makes sense given Spielberg's Jewish faith. Then a quick look at Among Us, the popular video game now turned into an animated murder mystery on Paramount Plus starring Elijah Wood. Full reviews at pluggedin.com. Also: Adam and Brian discover they've officially become their parents, and somehow their small group conversations are now mostly about what hurts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than 100 days since the US and Israel launched co-ordinated strikes on Iran on February 28, the war that was supposed to eliminate its threat and reshape the region is at a crossroads. Iran's military is still firing. Its proxies are still active. Hezbollah continues to engage Israeli forces on the ground in southern Lebanon. The Houthis have re-entered the equation, threatening to blockade the Red Sea. And the Iranian regime, in a new form, is intact. This week, US President Donald Trump made his position clear in an interview with the Financial Times. He said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will have no choice but to accept a deal with Iran. And then, in a striking public statement, said he calls the shots. Not Netanyahu. So is this a genuine rift between the two allies, or just the latest rough patch in a relationship that has long been complicated? In this episode of Beyond the Headlines, host Nada AlTaher speaks to two people who have spent decades at the centre of the US-Israel relationship: Tom Nides, US ambassador to Israel under former president Joe Biden, and Ehud Olmert, prime minister of Israel from 2006 to 2009.

Lukey Ryan loves to operate with time and space, but even he never thought he'd get to take a leisurely stroll in the park and stop for a cup of tea during a game! Time to Restump Podcast the tiptoeing through the tulips win over the Kangas. The Kangaroos just absolutely skedaddled. It was as if Luke Ryan was on the back of 4X4, armed with a spotlight and a Winchester! Was there divine intervention? Not since Moses parted the Red Sea has a safe and spacious passage to the promised land inexplicably appeared!It was a remarkable record tumbling day down at Bunbury, brought about by the contributions of both teams. You don't win 12 straight if you're not a serious outfit, but you don't destroy any opponent by 120+ points, hold them to just 3 behinds in a second half and put on 19 goals on the bounce without their deficiency assistance. However, at the same time, you can't manage such a feat if you're not rolling out an airtight functioning system and combining it with a relentless worth ethic and an insatiable hunger. Is there another ruckman in the league whose teammates willingly handball to? Maybe Brody Grundy but it'd still be due to a lack of comparable options. Hayden Young's first thought is ‘get the ball to Luke Jackson!' Even Luke Jackson's first thought when he gets his own ball is to handball to Luke Jackson! He is the AFL player prototype and unless there's a relaxing of the ethics and laws around cloning, he's going to remain a one-of-a-kind collector's item. We gotta talk Sammy Switkowski. JL's Einstein, the sharpest man in the west and I'm pretty sure a former Sale of the Century showcase winner! He's taken 9 injury plagued seasons to get to 117 games and he's potentially in his career best form. His work rate is unquestionable and on Saturday he saw personal reward with an equal career high three goal feat, something he has now managed three times. With two of those occasions coming this year, he's a vital piece of the September puzzle.I know we've won twelve on the bounce, we're twelve and one for the year, we're top of the tree, a game clear of Syndey in second, three and a half games and thirty percent ahead of the Hawks in third and 3/1 favourites for the flag…. but, for mine, the hype from all corners of the industry is a little uncomfortable. There is an unwanted element of forgone conclusion commentary about us and it's just a little bit unnerving. Yes, the ship has to leave the safety of the harbour at some stage but that means navigating unchartered waters! Give me back our comfortable underdog status, remove the intense magnified focus and let us return to our familiar footing of flying under the radar! Oh, who am I kidding, it's like a Tupperware container…. even if you could find the lid, there is no putting the lid on it. The lid is so far off, we can't even see the lid! The lid is in outer space! So, we live now, we throw cautious  optimism to the wind and go mental enjoying the thrilling journey and we worry about any possible unwanted consequences if or when  they arrive.We'll all take a breather over the bye, but before then, there is still plenty of purple praise to promulgate. So, put on your pants, pour yourself a piccolo, pitch in, park yourself on a plush perch, press play and partake in the purple prattle on the pod. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

Description Host Tara delivers an intense analysis of the geopolitical stakes in the Middle East, arguing that President Trump cannot settle for a deal with Iran. She connects the dots between Iranian assassination plots against US officials, China's $400 billion bankrolling of the Iranian regime, and the implementation of Huawei's digital social control grid. Tara challenges libertarian non-interventionism, outlining how a combined China-Iran axis uses proxy warfare in key trade routes to force the world into Chinese manufacturing, currency, and AI infrastructure. Custom Labels Iran geopolitics, Trump foreign policy, US-China trade war, Strait of Hormuz, global supply chains, national security, Chinese social credit system, Red Sea crisis, independent media

Description Host Tara breaks down the major mainstream media revelation that the US military secretly moved 100 million barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz. Explaining why she was reporting on this a week before Fox News caught wind of it, Tara analyzes President Trump's strategic maneuvering in the Middle East. She discusses how the administration is reshaping global supply chains to boost American energy infrastructure, comparing the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz to China's proxy actions in the Red Sea. Custom Labels Trump oil shipments, Strait of Hormuz, US energy crisis, global supply chains, Middle East geopolitics, independent media, oil refineries, economic warfare, China vs US trade

Pillars of Cloud and Fire17 When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near. For God said, “Lest the people change their minds when they see war and return to Egypt.” 18 But God led the people around by the way of the wilderness toward the Red Sea. And the people of Israel went up out of the land of Egypt equipped for battle. 19 Moses took the bones of Joseph with him, for Joseph[a] had made the sons of Israel solemnly swear, saying, “God will surely visit you, and you shall carry up my bones with you from here.” 20 And they moved on from Succoth and encamped at Etham, on the edge of the wilderness. 21 And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. 22 The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart from before the people.Crossing the Red Sea14.1 Then the Lord said to Moses, 2 “Tell the people of Israel to turn back and encamp in front of Pi-hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, in front of Baal-zephon; you shall encamp facing it, by the sea.3 For Pharaoh will say of the people of Israel, ‘They are wandering in the land; the wilderness has shut them in.' 4 And I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and he will pursue them, and I will get glory over Pharaoh and all his host, and the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord.” And they did so.5 When the king of Egypt was told that the people had fled, the mind of Pharaoh and his servants was changed toward the people, and they said, “What is this we have done, that we have let Israel go from serving us?” 6 So he made ready his chariot and took his army with him, 7 and took six hundred chosen chariots and all the other chariots of Egypt with officers over all of them. 8 And the Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and he pursued the people of Israel while the people of Israel were going out defiantly. 9 The Egyptians pursued them, all Pharaoh's horses and chariots and his horsemen and his army, and overtook them encamped at the sea, by Pi-hahiroth, in front of Baal-zephon.10 When Pharaoh drew near, the people of Israel lifted up their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians were marching after them, and they feared greatly. And the people of Israel cried out to the Lord. 11 They said to Moses, “Is it because there are no graves in Egypt that you have taken us away to die in the wilderness? What have you done to us in bringing us out of Egypt? 12 Is not this what we said to you in Egypt: ‘Leave us alone that we may serve the Egyptians'? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the wilderness.”

Gregory Copley reports on a rare Ebola outbreak and jihadi threats in Central Africa. He notes that local governments fail to fund necessary healthcare infrastructure, relying instead on outside aid. Additionally, Copley details the ongoing Ethiopian civil war and the complex regional power struggle over control of the vital Red Sea. (11)1900 CAR

SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 6-9-2026.JUNE 1957.Liz Peek discusses SpaceX's $1.78 trillion IPO, questioning whether valuations for AI companies like OpenAI and Anthropic are sustainable. She notes that Starlink's profitability supports Elon Musk's moonshots. Despite inflation concerns, strong domestic private investment is currently driving U.S. economic prosperity while Europe struggles with over-regulation and high energy costs. (1)Liz Peek examines the influence of the Democratic Socialists of America in blue cities like Seattle and Los Angeles. She argues establishment Democrats fail to counter radical socialist propaganda. Concerns are raised over candidates promoting the abolition of prisons, drug use without judgment, and anti-Israel positions funded by extremist-linked donor groups. (2)Jonathan Schanzer analyzes the downing of a US Army helicopter by Iran near the Strait of Hormuz. He notes Trump's focus on a potential economic siege over expensive military munitions. Schanzer discusses rumors of IRGCleadership decapitation by Israel and suggests the regime is flailing due to internal disarray and chaos. (3)Jonathan Schanzer discusses the Israeli offensive in Lebanon, noting that Iran's influence is shrinking. He highlights Qatar's role as a state sponsor of terrorism that buys American influence through massive investments, totaling hundreds of billions. Schanzer warns that Qatar and Turkey remain primary patrons for the radical Muslim Brotherhoodextremist group. (4)Mary Kissel addresses the Iranian standoff, emphasizing the threat of "impregnable" nuclear facilities at Pickaxe Mountain. She notes Iran uses the Strait of Hormuz as leverage. Additionally, Kissel praises Ukraine's innovative drone technology for creating a stalemate against Russia and fostering a burgeoning, globally sought-after military-industrial complex within the war-torn country. (5)Mary Kissel highlights a regional trend toward liberty and transparency in the Americas, citing recent elections in Peru, Chile, and Argentina. She credits voters for rejecting failed leftist policies and discusses figures like Nayib Bukele and Javier Milei, the latter implementing a conservative agenda that is successfully reducing soaring Argentine inflation. (6)Joseph Sternberg explains China's reform of the Hukou residency system, which has limited internal migration since the 1950s. By granting migrants access to urban social services like healthcare and education, Beijing aims to reduce high household saving rates and stimulate domestic consumption to revitalize its slowing, multi-trillion dollar communist national economy. (7)Joseph Sternberg describes the UK Labour Party's internal strife as it debates returning to Blairite centrism versus far-left socialism. He critiques Keir Starmer's lack of decisive leadership during an anemic economic period. Meanwhile, Nigel Farage's Reform Party is successfully poaching Labour's traditional working-class voters in various important regional British parliamentary by-elections. (8)Gregory Copley analyzes the downing of a US helicopter off Oman, noting strategic differences between American and Israeli objectives. While the US seeks a deal, Israel aims for regime change. Copley highlights the weakened state of the IRGC leadership and discusses how new global oil sources are currently mitigating Iranian threats. (9)Gregory Copley reviews the historical failure of the Jimmy Carter administration during the Iranian hostage crisis. He explains that President Trump refuses to be "Jimmy Carter," instead seeking the total collapse of the IRGC leadership. Copley argues that internal public response in Iran is far more effective than military commando raids. (10)Gregory Copley reports on a rare Ebola outbreak and jihadi threats in Central Africa. He notes that local governments fail to fund necessary healthcare infrastructure, relying instead on outside aid. Additionally, Copley details the ongoing Ethiopian civil war and the complex regional power struggle over control of the vital Red Sea. (11)Gregory Copley discusses Prince Harry's desire to return to Britain due to financial depletion. He notes the lack of trust from King Charles and Prince William, and the dissipated public affection for the Duke. Copley also references his new book on the authority and success of constitutional monarchy as practiced today. (12)Josh Blackman traces the modern history of the death penalty from the 1972 Furman case to 1976's Gregg v. Georgia. He critiques the "evolving standards of decency" doctrine used by the Warren Court, arguing it reflects the views of elites rather than the constitution or the broader American general voting public. (13)Josh Blackman examines the Atkins v. Virginia ruling, which prohibits executing individuals with low IQs. He highlights the subjectivity of IQ tests and the lack of constitutional basis for such standards. Blackman notes that defendants now have incentives to intentionally fail these tests to avoid the death penalty in federal court. (14)Peter Huessy discusses US plans to deploy nuclear-capable F-35s in Europe to counter Russian threats. He explains Russia's "escalate to win" doctrine involving low-yield battlefield nukes for "surgical" strikes. Huessy warns that Russiapossesses thousands of non-strategic weapons, far exceeding current NATO theater capabilities and its lack of transparent weaponry numbers. (15)Peter Huessy details China's growing non-strategic nuclear arsenal and dual-use delivery systems. He explains that Beijing believes it can control escalation to keep the US out of the Western Pacific. Huessy emphasizes that NATOlacks a comparable response in Asia, as the US withdrew similar theater weapons in 1991. (16)

Send us Fan MailIn this week's episode of Small Beginnings with Sara, we're talking about a truth many of us need to hear:The battle is not yours. It belongs to the Lord.Maybe you're facing a diagnosis, a strained relationship, a difficult decision, financial pressure, grief, or a situation that feels completely beyond your control. You've prayed, worried, planned, and tried to figure it all out—but what if God is inviting you to stop carrying a burden that was never yours to carry alone?Through the stories of Moses at the Red Sea and David facing Goliath, we'll discover two very different expressions of faith. Moses was told to stand still and watch God move. David was called to step forward and face the giant. One battle required waiting. The other required action.The wisdom is knowing the difference.We'll explore what it means to trust God in impossible situations, how to stop fighting in your own strength, stand on God's promises, and take the next step of obedience while leaving the outcome in His hands.If you've ever wondered whether God sees your struggle or if He's still working in the middle of your battle, this episode is for you.Key Scripture:"Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's." — 2 Chronicles 20:15Wherever you find yourself today—standing at a Red Sea, facing a giant, or simply weary from carrying too much—I pray this conversation reminds you that God is faithful, God is present, and God is still fighting battles on behalf of His people.

In Episode #213 of the Way of the Bible podcast, Dr. Philip Zimmerman continues the mini-series Response to the Sermon on the Mount by examining Jesus' teaching about the wise man who built his house upon the rock. The focus of this episode is what believers are called to do when the storms of life arrive: stand and stand firm. The discussion begins with Peter's famous encounter with Jesus walking on the Sea of Galilee. After seeing Jesus on the water, Peter boldly asks to join Him. At Jesus' command, Peter steps out of the boat and walks across the waves. Yet after successfully reaching Jesus, Peter notices the wind, becomes afraid, and begins to sink.This moment serves as a powerful picture of the Christian life. Many believers begin their journey with enthusiasm and faith. They experience God's power and guidance. Yet when challenges, opposition, doubts, or distractions arise, their focus shifts from Christ to circumstances.The episode emphasizes that Peter's problem was not the wind or the waves. The issue was doubt. His attention moved from Jesus to the storm.Drawing from numerous passages throughout Scripture, the episode demonstrates that God consistently calls His people to stand firm. Moses instructed Israel to stand firm before the Red Sea. King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah were told to stand firm and watch God fight on their behalf. The Apostle Paul repeatedly urged believers to stand firm in faith, freedom, grace, and truth.A major theme of the episode is spiritual warfare. Jesus prepared His disciples not merely for ministry success but for opposition. As believers mature in Christ and become more effective witnesses, they often encounter resistance from spiritual forces seeking to distract, discourage, and derail them.The solution is not retreat. It is steadfastness.The episode highlights Ephesians 6 and the armor of God, reminding listeners that they are engaged in a spiritual battle. Believers are called to put on truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Word of God so they can withstand attacks and remain standing.The message concludes by challenging listeners to consider where Jesus may be calling them to step out of the boat. Faith is not simply believing Jesus can do the impossible. Faith is continuing to trust Him after the first step has been taken.The call of Christ is clear: hear His words, obey them, keep your eyes fixed on Him, and stand firm regardless of the storms that arise.For those who build their lives upon the Rock, the rain may fall, the streams may rise, and the winds may beat against the house—but it will not fall, because it has been founded upon Jesus Christ. 

Worship with us 9 + 11 AM 390 N 400 E Bountiful, UT 84010. For more information or to get connected, please visit: www.flourishinggrace.org/plan-your-visit. What is the story of Exodus really about? Is it simply a story about Moses, the plagues, and the parting of the Red Sea, or is there something much deeper taking place? In this opening message of our Exodus series, we discover that the book of Exodus is ultimately not a story about human heroes. It is the story of a faithful God who draws near to rescue His people and claim them as His own. Throughout Scripture, God consistently reveals Himself as a God who takes the initiative. He is the one who pursues, rescues, and restores. The story of Exodus begins by introducing us to this central truth. God draws near to Israel to rescue them and claim them as His own. This theme not only shapes the entire book of Exodus but also reveals the heart of the gospel and the story of the entire Bible. In this sermon, we trace the origins of God's covenant people through the promises made to Abraham. God called Abraham out of his homeland and promised to make him into a great nation through whom all the families of the earth would be blessed. Despite impossible circumstances, waiting, uncertainty, and generations of challenges, God remained faithful to His promises. Even when His people could not see what He was doing, God was working behind the scenes to accomplish His purposes. The message then takes us into the opening chapters of Exodus where we encounter a heartbreaking reality. The descendants of Abraham have multiplied just as God promised, but they are now living under oppression and slavery in Egypt. A new Pharaoh rises to power and begins to fear the growing population of Israel. What follows is one of the darkest moments in Israel's history as God's people suffer under brutal oppression and experience unimaginable loss and suffering. As we examine these difficult chapters, we are confronted with an important question. What happens when God's promises seem impossible to reconcile with our circumstances? Many believers have experienced seasons where they know God is faithful, yet life feels overwhelming, painful, or confusing. Exodus reminds us that God is still working even when we cannot yet see the rescue He is preparing. This message also introduces us to Moses, one of the most significant figures in Scripture. Born into impossible circumstances and rescued from death as an infant, Moses grows up with a complicated identity. He is born Hebrew but raised in the household of Pharaoh. He belongs to both worlds and yet feels at home in neither. His struggle with identity becomes a powerful reminder that lasting identity can never be found in status, success, background, accomplishments, or earthly labels. As Moses attempts to take matters into his own hands, he discovers the limits of human strength and self reliance. His efforts to bring justice through his own power lead to failure, isolation, and exile. Yet even in Moses' mistakes, God is preparing him for a greater purpose. The story reminds us that God's plans are not dependent upon our perfection. God often works through flawed, broken, and unlikely people to accomplish His purposes. One of the most encouraging moments in this message comes as we see Moses wrestling with God's calling. When God invites Moses into His rescue plan, Moses immediately focuses on his weaknesses, failures, and limitations. His response is one many of us can relate to. “Who am I?” Yet the story of Exodus continually points away from human ability and back toward God's faithfulness. The focus is never on what Moses can accomplish. The focus is on what God will do.

Today's sermon looks at the journey through the Red Sea and how in this narrative we learn about God's ability to make a way for us when there seems to be no way forward.

Thaddeus McCotter and Malcolm Hoenlein review Israeli strikes on Iranian military infrastructure and the severe financial crisis facing the IRGC. They also discuss the Houthi movement's renewed threats to disrupt Red Sea shipping. (5)1899 KIMBERLEY

SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW,6-8-261823.Bill Roggio examines the intersection of Ebola and jihadist activity in Africa. ISIS-affiliated groups occupy national parks, complicating medical containment efforts amidst collapsed governance in West Africa and foreign exploitation by Russia and China. (1)Bill Roggio discusses the volatile Middle East conflict, highlighting recent missile exchanges between Israel and Iran. He notes the fragility of ceasefires and the impact of the ongoing U.S. maritime and economic blockade. (2)Bill Roggio and Jonathan Sayeh analyze Iran's strategic focus on Lebanon and Hezbollah as a "crown jewel." They discuss Iran's preemptive missile strikes against Israel and their efforts to create diplomatic rifts. (3)Bill Roggio and Jonathan Sayeh detail Iran's centralized internet restrictions and increased execution rates for dissidents. They discuss Israel's targeting of Iranian petrochemical facilities linked to ballistic missile production and covert resistance efforts. (4)Thaddeus McCotter and Malcolm Hoenlein review Israeli strikes on Iranian military infrastructure and the severe financial crisis facing the IRGC. They also discuss the Houthi movement's renewed threats to disrupt Red Sea shipping. (5)Thaddeus McCotter and Malcolm Hoenlein explore Qatar's massive U.S. investments and its role as a state sponsor of terrorism. They also address the failure of Saudi Arabia's Neom project and Hamas's weakening position. (6)Edmund Fitton-Brown evaluates the "armed standoff" between the U.S. and Iran. He explains how Iran uses Hezbollah to pressure Israel while attempting to exploit political vulnerabilities and split the U.S. from Jerusalem. (7)Edmund Fitton-Brown discusses the centrality of the nuclear file in U.S.-Iran negotiations. He emphasizes that Israelcannot withdraw from Lebanon while under threat and highlights the IRGC's strategy of absorbing long-term pain. (8)Bill Roggio and John Hardie discuss Russia's reopening of military schools to replenish its officer core. They analyze the impact of high casualties in Ukraine on Russian force quality and post-war reconstitution plans. (9)Ahmad Sharawi discusses Syria's efforts to lift its state sponsor of terror designation to attract foreign investment. He warns that unconditional sanctions relief poses risks regarding foreign fighters and Hezbollah's regional rearmament. (10)Gordon Chang and Alan Tonelson review the re-imposition of U.S. tariffs on China following a Supreme Court ruling. They discuss specific trade laws, forced labor bans, and the public's perception of trade wars. (11)Gordon Chang and Rick Fisher analyze China's "grayzone" activities and maritime intimidation near Taiwan. They discuss the deployment of massive Coast Guard vessels and Taiwan's asymmetric defense strategy to prevent beach invasions. (12)Bill Roggio and Bridget Toomey examine the Houthi movement's role in the regional conflict. They discuss leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi's ambitious vision, his coordination with Iran, and threats to Israeli shipping. (13)Conrad Black critiques Canada's "Combatting Hate Act," arguing it is a tokenistic measure that potentially infringes on free expression. He asserts existing laws are already sufficient to handle genuine incitements to criminal violence. (14)Alejandro Peña Esclusa and Ernesto Araújo report on close elections in Peru and Colombia. They discuss the rise of right-wing candidates fighting organized crime and the left's allegations of widespread electoral irregularities. (15)Alejandro Peña Esclusa and Ernesto Araújo discuss regional instability in Bolivia and Chile. They highlight the coordinated efforts of the left to provoke social unrest and the impact of transnational criminal organizations. (16)

//The Wire//2300Z June 8, 2026// //ROUTINE// //BLUF: WAR IN MIDDLE EAST REIGNITES AFTER IRAN AND ISRAEL CONTINUE MUTUAL TARGETING EFFORTS. MORE SCREWWORM CASES REPORTED IN AMERICAN SOUTHWEST. DRONE SHOOTDOWN REPORTED IN LATVIA.// -----BEGIN TEARLINE------International Events-Middle East: Last night the war resumed again with both Israel and Iran exchanging missiles throughout the evening. The conflict began after a flare up in Lebanon yesterday afternoon, which involved Israeli forces and Hezbollah launching missiles at each other shortly before midnight (local time). Due to this targeting effort, the Iranians launched several ballistic missiles toward Israel. All total, approximately 30x missiles were launched, with an unknown number being intercepted. Immediately after these missiles were launched, Israeli aircraft crossed into Jordan and launched long-range missiles targeting unknown locations within Iran.Red Sea/HOA: Following the recent escalation of the war, the Houthis have claimed to close the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait to American and Israeli vessels.Analyst Comment: Now, a second major maritime choke point is threatened. During this war so far, the Houthis have largely been sitting this one out, after their victory in holding out against the US bombing campaign last year. Now, the Houthis appear to be getting in the game, at least to some degree. They don't have nearly as much firepower as the Iranians do, however they can still make enough trouble to threaten the Red Sea.Europe: This morning NATO aircraft were scrambled to intercept a drone, which breached Latvia's airspace. One drone was shot down by a French Rafale fighter aircraft, and no injuries were reported as a result of the incident.Analyst Comment: The point of origin for the drone has not been provided, however based on geography alone, it would make sense for the drone to be Russian. Nevertheless, this shootdown comes at a time when the collateral damage concerns of the war spilling outside Ukraine's borders are beginning to be more serious. A stray drone or two is not out of the ordinary, but multiple explosive boats being found inside a Romanian port, similar drones hitting an apartment building also in Romania, and now a drone breaching Latvia's airspace...all within a few days...has caused increased concern regarding this year's fighting season in Europe.-HomeFront-Georgia: This afternoon an active shooter situation was reported on base at Fort Stewart. One suspect was apprehended after firing several rounds on Engineer Road on post. No further information has been provided regarding this incident, however the lockdown has been lifted and no casualties were reported. More information is expected as the investigation continues.-----END TEARLINE-----Analyst Comments: Over the weekend, several more confirmed cases of New World Screwworm (NWS) have been disclosed. One dog was discovered with the parasite in Lea County, New Mexico, and another case was discovered in a calf in Gillespie County, Texas, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to four nationwide. Aerial dispersal of sterile NWS flies have taken place over the weekend near the affected areas, with several flights being undertaken since June 4th. 24x ground release arrays are already deployed throughout the area along the border, and the recent emergency declarations by Texas have increased efforts to combat the spread of the parasite.Analyst: S2A1 Research: https://publish.obsidian.md/s2underground Disclaimer: No LLMs were used in the writing of this report. //END REPORT//

The last week of the offseason program is here as the Cardinals begin mandatory minicamp. Craig Grialou, Zach Gershman, and former Cardinals linebacker Rob Fredrickson discuss the quarterback room with Jacoby Brissett back in the building. The guys also discuss Arizona's deep running back room, led by James Conner, Tyler Allgeier, and rookie Jeremiyah Love, and how a more balanced, physical attack could help take pressure off the passing game. On the defensive side, the crew examines Nick Rallis' plans for improvement after a difficult finish to last season, the value of continuity within the system, and how new voices on the coaching staff could help elevate the unit. Plus, a conversation about Cardinals players the guys want to see take the next step in 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

World news in 7 minutes. Wednesday 10th June 2026.Today : Albania protests. EU Russia sanctions. Ukraine attacks. Iran US helicopter. Houthis Red Sea threat. China North Korea visit. US China companies list. Philippines earthquake. Kenya Ebola protests. Nigeria abductions. Peru results delay. US screwworm. Mexico youngest player.SEND7 is supported by our amazing listeners like you.Our supporters get access to the transcripts and vocabulary list written by us every day.Our supporters get access to an English worksheet made by us once per week.Our supporters get access to our weekly news quiz made by us once per week.We give 10% of our profit to Effective Altruism charities. You can become a supporter at send7.org/supportWith Stephen DevincenziContact us at podcast@send7.org or send an audio message at speakpipe.com/send7Please leave a rating on Apple podcasts or Spotify.We don't use AI! Every word is written and recorded by us! We do not consent to the podcast being used to train AI.Since 2020, SEND7 (Simple English News Daily in 7 minutes) has been telling the most important world news stories in intermediate English. Every day, listen to the most important stories from every part of the world in slow, clear English. Whether you are an intermediate learner trying to improve your advanced, technical and business English, or if you are a native speaker who just wants to hear a summary of world news as fast as possible, join Stephen Devincenzi, Juliet Martin and Ben Mallett every morning. Transcripts, vocabulary lists, worksheets and our weekly world news quiz are available for our amazing supporters at send7.org. Simple English News Daily is the perfect way to start your day, by practising your listening skills and understanding complicated daily news in a simple way. It is also highly valuable for IELTS and TOEFL students. Students, teachers, TEFL teachers, and people with English as a second language, tell us that they use SEND7 because they can learn English through hard topics, but simple grammar. We believe that the best way to improve your spoken English is to immerse yourself in real-life content, such as what our podcast provides. SEND7 covers all news including politics, business, natural events and human rights. Whether it is happening in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas or Oceania, you will hear it on SEND7, and you will understand it.Get your daily news and improve your English listening in the time it takes to make a coffee.For more information visit send7.org/contact or send an email to podcast@send7.org

Freight rates on China-North America shipping routes have risen sharply in recent weeks as importers from the United States stepped up inventory replenishment and global shipping capacity tightened, said freight forwarders and industry analysts.货运代理和行业分析师表示，由于美国进口商加大补库存力度，加之全球运力收紧，近几周中国至北美航线的运价大幅上涨。They said space on US-bound routes has remained in short supply, with most capacity already booked through June.他们表示，美线舱位持续紧张，大部分运力直至6月已被预订一空。Freight rates on some routes have jumped more than 50 percent since late April amid strong demand and constrained vessel capacity.受强劲需求与运力受限的双重影响，自4月下旬以来，部分航线的运价涨幅已超过50%。At Pros-Forest Logistics, an international freight forwarding company based in Ningbo, Zhejiang province in East China, staffers repeatedly refreshed shipping lines‘ booking systems, closely monitoring the latest slots available.在位于浙江宁波的国际货运代理公司“普罗森林物流”（音译），员工反复刷新船公司的订舱系统，密切关注最新舱位动态。Securing vessel space and obtaining empty containers have become the company's top priorities in recent weeks.确保舱位和提取空箱已成为该公司近几周的首要任务。Jiang Lei, the company‘s president, said that since May, shipping routes between China and the US have been fully booked.该公司总裁蒋蕾（音译）表示，自5月以来，中美航线的舱位已全部订满。Vessel space has become extremely tight across East and South China, with cargo frequently being rolled over to later sailings.华东和华南地区舱位极度紧缺，货物经常被延至后续航次。“Most of the available capacity for June has already been reserved. Overall, the market has returned to the kind of tight conditions typically seen during the peak shipping season，” Jiang said.“6月的大部分舱位已被预订。总体而言，市场已恢复到航运旺季才有的紧张状态，”蒋蕾说。At the end of April, the freight rate for a forty-foot equivalent unit from Ningbo to ports on the US West Coast stood at about $2,900, while rates to the US East Coast were around $3,900, she said.她表示，4月底时，从宁波发往美国西海岸港口的40英尺集装箱运价约为2900美元，发往美国东海岸港口的运价约为3900美元。Following several rounds of increases, rates have now climbed to nearly $5,000 for the US West Coast and close to $6,000 for the US East Coast.经过数轮提价后，目前美西航线运价已攀升至近5000美元，美东航线则逼近6000美元。Meanwhile, several shipping lines are planning further rate hikes on US routes in mid-June, said Jiang.蒋蕾补充说，与此同时，多家船公司正计划在6月中旬对美国航线进一步提价。At a warehouse operated by Ningbo Ruiyuan Logistics Co, a freight forwarding company in Ningbo, consumer goods from Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces are gathered before being shipped to North America.在宁波货运代理公司“宁波瑞源物流有限公司”的一处仓库，来自江苏和浙江两省的消费品在此集结，随后运往北美。“From late April to late May, the warehouse handled an average of 70 to 80 FEUs per day, surpassing the shipping peak seen ahead of the Chinese New Year holiday this year，” said Hu Wanying, the company‘s executive vice-president.“4月下旬至5月下旬，该仓库日均处理70至80个40英尺集装箱，已超过今年春节前的出货高峰，”公司执行副总裁胡倇萤说。Qian Hanglu, an analyst at Ningbo Shipping Exchange, said that on the supply side, more than 300,000 twenty-foot equivalent units of container shipping capacity have been stranded in the Gulf due to tensions in the Middle East and disruptions to traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.宁波航运交易所分析师钱杭璐指出，从供给端看，受中东局势紧张以及霍尔木兹海峡航运中断的影响，超过30万标准箱的集装箱运力滞留在波斯湾。Meanwhile, the resumption of normal shipping through the Red Sea has been delayed, forcing vessels to continue taking longer routes around the region.与此同时，红海航线恢复正常的时间被推迟，迫使船舶继续绕行该地区更远的航线。The decline in vessel turnover has effectively reduced available capacity and added further upward pressure on freight rates, Qian said.钱杭璐表示，船舶周转率下降导致有效运力减少，进一步加大了运价上涨的压力。“We have also observed that vessel speeds across the container shipping market have been declining. Shipping companies are slowing down, primarily to reduce fuel costs. This will effectively reduce available global shipping capacity，” she added.“我们还观察到，集装箱航运市场的船舶航速正在下降。船公司降低航速主要是为了降低燃油成本。这将进一步减少全球可用运力，”她补充道。Exports from Ningbo's ports to the US totaled more than 290,000 TEUs in May, with cargo value exceeding 36 billion yuan ($5.3 billion), up more than 25 percent year-on-year.宁波海关数据显示，5月宁波口岸对美出口总量超过29万标准箱，货值超过360亿元人民币（约合53亿美元），同比增长超过25%。Major export categories included mechanical and electrical products, apparel, textile products and household goods, said Ningbo Customs.主要出口商品包括机电产品、服装、纺织品和家居用品。freight rate /freɪt reɪt/运价inventory replenishment /ˈɪnvəntri rɪˈplenɪʃmənt/补库存rolled over /rəʊld ˈəʊvə/延至后续航次forty-foot equivalent unit (FEU) /ˈfɔːti fʊt ɪˈkwɪvələnt ˈjuːnɪt/ 40英尺集装箱twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) /ˈtwɛnti fʊt ɪˈkwɪvələnt ˈjuːnɪt/标准箱mechanical and electrical products /məˈkænɪkəl ənd ɪˈlektrɪkəl ˈprɒdʌkts/机电产品apparel /əˈpærəl/服装Ningbo Shipping Exchange /ˈnɪŋbəʊ ˈʃɪpɪŋ ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒ/宁波航运交易所

In today's episode of Trending Middle East, Iran and Israel halt attacks against each other after the heaviest exchange of strikes in weeks, but fighting continues in Lebanon. We also look at signs of a new phase in the regional conflict, as Yemen's Houthi rebels resume operations against Israel. An Iran-backed Iraqi militia warns it could attack US interests if Washington "intervenes in the war". In the Gulf, American forces fire on an oil tanker heading towards an Iranian port and a US military helicopter goes down near the Strait of Hormuz. Etihad Airways says it expects passenger numbers to recover to prewar levels this summer, despite higher fuel costs and disruption caused by the Iran war. And authorities in the UAE and Saudi Arabia announce the seizure of more than 267,000 amphetamine pills in a joint operation that also dismantles a drug trafficking network. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.

Ikaw, mula saan mo kailangang lumaya ngayon? Feeling mo ba nasa dead end ka na? Tandaan, the God who parted the Red Sea can also make a way for you. Tiwala lang!All Rights Reserved, CBN Asia Inc.https://www.cbnasia.com/giveSupport the show

Bridget Toomey outlines Abdul Malik al-Houthi's expansive vision, which includes seizing contested Saudi territory and holy cities. Emboldened by Red Sea disruptions, the Houthis seek to expand their religious and political influence globally. (5)1958 yemen

Today's top stories, with context, in just 15 minutes.On today's podcast:1) Israel and Iran exchanged missile strikes on Monday despite President Trump’s calls for both sides to stop fighting and give peace talks a chance. Iran launched a fresh wave of attacks just hours after firing ballistic missiles at Israel on Sunday. Israel responded with strikes on military targets in western and central Iran, while Iranian state media reported multiple explosions in the capital, Tehran. 2) The Houthis, an Iran-backed militant group that controls much of Yemen, declared a ban on Israeli ships in the Red Sea, threatening a key bypass route to the Strait of Hormuz. “We declare a complete and total ban on Israeli maritime navigation,” the group said Monday in a statement. “We consider all enemy movements to be legitimate military targets for our armed forces.” The move comes as the Iran war drags into a fourth month and hostilities flare across the region, threatening to derail a fragile truce and complicate negotiations toward a peace deal. The conflict has led to the near-closure of Hormuz, forcing key Middle Eastern exporters to find alternative routes to global markets.3) The Secret Service and the New York Police Department barred outdoor watch parties planned near Madison Square Garden for Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday night, citing security requirements tied to President Donald Trump’s planned attendance. The ban applies only to Game 3, with officials expecting the New York City watch parties to resume for Game 4. Matt McCool, special agent in charge of the Secret Service’s New York field office, said the two agencies jointly determined that outdoor gatherings near the arena could not be safely accommodated.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“You and all of your new perspective nowWish I could shut it in a closetAnd drag you back down.”~Noah Kahan, “New Perspective” “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the Sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.”~C.S. Lewis (1898-1963), British scholar, writer, and Christian apologist, in “Is Theology Poetry?” “All those who are ‘in the Messiah' are covered, shielded, protected, like the Israelites sheltering under the blood of the Passover lamb. That's Romans 3. They are declared to be Abraham's true family, Romans 4. They are therefore the true humanity, Romans 5. And they set off on their journey through the Red Sea as newly-freed slaves, as in Romans 6; they find themselves at Mount Sinai in Romans 7, only to discover in Romans 8 that what the law could not do God has done in his Son and by his Spirit, and they are on the way home through the wilderness to their promised inheritance. This is the new Exodus.”~N.T. Wright, New Testament scholar and Anglican bishop “Here again [in Romans 8:15], it seems that Paul is describing the situation of his Christian readers in Rome by using exodus metaphors. They should not be afraid and desire to return to ‘the house of slavery,' as did the Israelites in the desert. … Instead, they should continue to recognize the leading of the Spirit of God, which confirms their status as ‘sons,' causes them to cry to God as Father, and shows the way to freedom.”~Richard B. Hays, New Testament scholar, in “Pneumatology: The Spirit in Romans 8” “When Pharaoh drew near, the people of Israel lifted up their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians were marching after them, and they feared greatly. And the people of Israel cried out to the Lord. They said to Moses, ‘Is it because there are no graves in Egypt that you have taken us away to die in the wilderness? What have you done to us in bringing us out of Egypt? Is not this what we said to you in Egypt: “Leave us alone that we may serve the Egyptians”? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the wilderness.'  And Moses said to the people, ‘Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord.'”~Exodus 14:10-13 (ESV)SERMON PASSAGE Romans 8:1-17 (ESV)Romans 8 (ESV) 1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. 3 For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. 6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. 7 For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. 8 Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10 But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.12 So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. 13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.1 Corinthians 10 (NIV) 1 For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea…. 5 Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered in the wilderness. 6 Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did.  Exodus 16 (NIV) 2 In the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron. 3 The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the Lord's hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death.” Numbers 13 (NIV) 30 Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, “We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.” 31 But the men who had gone up with him said, “We can't attack those people; they are stronger than we are.” 32 And they spread among the Israelites a bad report about the land they had explored. They said, “The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size. 33 We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.” Exodus 14 (ESV)11 They said to Moses, “Is it because there are no graves in Egypt that you have taken us away to die in the wilderness? What have you done to us in bringing us out of Egypt? 12 Is not this what we said to you in Egypt: ‘Leave us alone that we may serve the Egyptians'? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the wilderness.” 13 And Moses said to the people, “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord”

What do you do when life looks confusing, painful, delayed, or completely out of place? In this sermon, “God Knows What He's Doing,” we look at the life of Moses and see how God was working even when the picture looked impossible.From Pharaoh's death decree, to Moses floating in the Nile, to his years in Midian, to the plagues, Passover, and the Red Sea, every moment proves one powerful truth: God sees the finished masterpiece before we understand the brushstrokes.You may not understand every trial, delay, loss, or unanswered question, but you can trust the Artist. The painting is not finished. The story is not over. God is still working.Scripture Text: Exodus 5:22–23, Exodus 1:22, Exodus 2:1-2, Habakkuk 2:3, Romans 8:28, Philippians 1:6Key Thought: Don't judge the painting before the Artist is finished

Exodus 14 Dr. Steven Roby

Deen Salami | Guest Pastor Standing Firm: A Look at Stephen Check out the weekly sermon here or on our SRBC podcast on Apple Podcast and Spotify. While you're at it, check us out on Facebook and Instagram too. Like what you hear? We'd love to know.At South Run, we read every message personally. Whether you have a question, want to share how God is moving in your life, or are thinking about visiting in person, this is the place to start. If you click the link below, Pastor Eric will personally reach out to you. Listening online? Let us know. Sermon Transcript Standing Firm: What Stephen's Martyrdom in Acts 6–7 Teaches Us About Faith Under Fire — Sermon TranscriptSouth Run Baptist Church | Springfield, VA Guest Preacher: Deen SalamiActs 6:8–7:60June 7, 2026This is a full sermon transcript from South Run Baptist Church in Springfield, Virginia. In this message, guest preacher Deen Salami preaches on the martyrdom of Stephen from Acts 6–7. This sermon addresses how Stephen — an ordinary believer full of faith and the Holy Spirit — stood firm against hate and persecution before the Sanhedrin, what his conduct, his defense, and his death reveal about the cost of following Jesus, and why the church's first martyr was not a tragic accident but a catalyst for the spread of the gospel. Opening: A Passage That Can Almost Preach ItselfI am a little excited today about the message. We've got a lot of ground to cover. There's a large section of scripture that I want us to go through. I'm going to act as your guide. It's not very often that there are passages of scripture that actually can preach themselves. This passage just might be one of them. So what I'd like to do is just to act as your guide. I'll read through big chunks of scripture and I'll just make a couple of observations for us to consider as we do. To do that, though, I'll only need about another hour. Are you guys good with that? I know better than to get in the way of lunch, so I'll make sure that I'll get through this thing in a reasonable amount of time, and I promise we'll survive the experience, all right? All right, why don't you join me in prayer? Gracious God and Father, behold this time. It is you who have called all these people here. None are here by accident. You have assigned me to this task for this day and this hour, and I just pray, Lord God, that you would act and move. Empower now your servant to be able to bring forth this majesty for your people's benefit and for the glory of your great name. May everything that be said and done would be pleasing to you. We pray all of this in Jesus' name. Amen. Context: Who Was Stephen, and Why Does He Matter?Now, we've already had the first section of our passage read to us. We're going to look at the first martyr of the early church. If you guys know, that is a follower by the name of Stephen. Before he was crucified, Jesus warned the disciples that the world would hate them because of him, and as a result, they would suffer persecution. So how do we stand firm against the hate and persecution? Well, Stephen is going to help us answer that question because he experienced exactly what Jesus said he would. How he handles the hate is a great example for us to follow. Now, again, we've already read that first section in Acts 6:1–8, but as we go into the commentary of it, I want you to consider three simple things: the charges brought before Stephen, his conduct throughout this whole trial, and what it costs him at the end. Three things — charges, his conduct, and the cost. The gospel was being preached early on. It's the early part of the church's existence. The gospel was being preached, and after an early reception by the masses, opposition began to rise, specifically from the religious leaders. Stephen was a Hellenistic Jew, which means that his native tongue was not Aramaic, but it was Greek. He was also a Diaspora Jew, meaning that he was not born and raised inside Israel proper. He was born and raised outside of Israel. He came to Jerusalem, heard the gospel, and became a believer. He was not one of the original 12. He had no special place of prominence. In fact, when we first learn of Stephen a few verses earlier, he was in charge of food distribution for the church. In other words, Stephen was a simple, normal person, just like any one of us. His only desire was to serve and to be used by God. Now look at how he was described in this section. It says that he was full of God's grace and power, and he performed great signs and wonders. Up until this point, that description was only made of the apostles. But he ran into his fellow Diaspora Jews, and they could not withstand him in debate, because the Spirit of God had given him great wisdom. Since they were unable to defeat Stephen in debate, they slandered him, brought him up on trumped-up charges, and dragged him before the Sanhedrin. And this, by the way, is the third time that a follower of Jesus was dragged before the Sanhedrin. The first time it was Peter and John for healing a lame man. But because the crowds were praising God, they let them go. The second time was with all 12 apostles. They were beaten and sternly warned no longer to preach the gospel. This time, the Diaspora Jews were mobilized as a mob against Stephen, and if you were hearing properly and paying attention, you noticed that Stephen is alone. Incidentally, this is the same council that sentenced Jesus to death. The Charges Against Stephen: Disrespecting Moses and the TempleSo let's hear the charges brought against Stephen. It was the disrespect of the law — which is referred to as Moses — and the disrespect of God, the temple, because they believed that God's presence was in the temple. But Stephen is going to take these two charges and turn them on his accusers. But for now, I want to draw your attention to how Luke describes Stephen as he stands before the Sanhedrin. He says that he has the face of an angel. Now, I doubt very much that the Sanhedrin thought Stephen was hot, right? But what is it that made his appearance unmistakable? The question I want us to consider is, how is it possible that a normal person like Stephen — who was not part of the inner circle of Jesus — is able to do the things that Stephen had done and was described the way Luke describes him? Acts 6:5 — Full of Faith and the Holy Spirit: What That Actually MeansAnd I believe that the answer is found in verse 5 of chapter 6. This is the very first description we have of Stephen: he's a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit. But the question is, what does that mean exactly? Let me start with full of faith. Because there are three aspects of faith that we see in Stephen. First, there's an intellectual determination. What do I mean by that? It simply means that he's asking himself, is the gospel true, and do I believe it? Am I a sinner, like the gospel says, and do I need a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ? Stephen's answer is yes. The second is, do I trust Jesus? Will I submit my life to him and proclaim him as my Lord? Again, Stephen answers, yes. But finally, will I commit everything to him, even if it means my death? And as we will see, Stephen will answer that question yes as well. But let me ask us all a question here. How are we doing in these three aspects? For most Christians, they're okay intellectually up here. Do I need a Savior? Yes. But it's the other two that they stumble at. Is he actually Lord? Am I running my own life? Do I just need Jesus as an advisor — I'll call on him when I need to? Or is he actually Lord? Do we actually commit our lives to him, willing to die? Because Stephen was all in with Jesus, it gave the Holy Spirit free reign to use Stephen any way he wanted. Not like a puppet, but as an active and willing partner in the work of advancing the kingdom. It's like the Fellowship of the Ring. Do you guys remember the Fellowship of the Ring? Remember when Frodo said he was going to go and take the ring to Mordor? Aragorn said to him, if by my life or death I can protect you, I will. Why? Because the fate of Middle Earth hung in the balance, right? But for us today, it's the souls — the eternal souls of people — that hang in the balance. And the only hope for them is Jesus Christ. Amen? If by our life or death, if we have the opportunity to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ, will we? Are we all in like Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit? What the Sanhedrin saw in Stephen was the very presence of the divine emanating from him. But let's move on and see what happens next. Acts 7:1–16: Stephen's Defense Begins — Summarizing Genesis 12 Through Exodus 1 from Memory I'm going to read from chapter 7, verse 1. "Then the high priest asked Stephen, are these charges true? To this he replied, brothers and fathers, listen to me. The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia before he lived in Haran. Leave your country and your people, God said, and go to the land I will show you. So he left the land of the Chaldeans and settled in Haran. After the death of his father, God sent him to this land where you are now living. He gave him no inheritance here, not even enough ground to set his foot on. But God promised him that he and his descendants after him would possess the land, even though at that time Abraham had no children. God spoke to him in this way, for 400 years your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own, and they will be enslaved and mistreated. But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves, God said, and afterward they will come out of that country and worship me in this place. Then he gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision, and Abraham became the father of Isaac and circumcised him eight days after his birth. Later, Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of the twelve patriarchs. Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him and rescued him from all his troubles. He gave Joseph wisdom and enabled him to gain the goodwill of Pharaoh, king of Egypt. So Pharaoh made him ruler over Egypt and all his palace. Then a famine struck all of Egypt and Canaan, bringing great suffering, and our ancestors could not find food. When Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent our forefathers on their first visit. On their second visit, Joseph told his brothers who he was. And Pharaoh learned about Joseph's family. After this, Joseph sent for his father Jacob and his whole family, 75 in all. Then Jacob went down to Egypt where he and our ancestors died. Their bodies were brought back to Shechem and placed in the tomb that Abraham had bought from the sons of Hamor at Shechem for a certain sum of money. And as the time drew near for God to fulfill his promise to Abraham, the number of our people in Egypt had greatly increased. Then a new king, to whom Joseph meant nothing, came to power in Egypt. He dealt treacherously with our people and oppressed our ancestors by forcing them to throw out their newborn babies so that they would die." Now, for those of you who may have picked up on it, Stephen just summarized Genesis 12 all the way through Exodus 1. Genesis 12 is where we have God's promise to bless the world through Abram. Stephen starts there and ends in Exodus chapter 1. That is approximately 39 chapters that he summarized from memory under pressure. Now, if you were on the Sanhedrin, what would you be thinking right now about the charge of disrespecting the law? At least at this point, it looks like that charge is on kind of shaky ground. In fact, some of the Sanhedrin might be looking at Stephen and secretly giving him a thumbs up. Way to go, bro. Good job, all right? Why Stephen Uses Geography and the Stories of Joseph and Moses StrategicallyWhat I don't want you to miss, though, is how Stephen is telling this story. I want you to notice the way Stephen is making use of geography — Mesopotamia, Haran, Israel, Egypt. He is summarizing what God did in those places, but why is he doing this? Also, I want you to keep in mind what he says about Joseph and his brothers. I'm going to develop that here in a minute. Just be patient, okay? Now, before we move on, I want to highlight how Stephen addresses his adversaries. To the mob, he refers to them as brothers. To the Sanhedrin, he refers to them as fathers. This mob who dragged him forcefully before the Sanhedrin, and this council that not only sentenced Jesus to death but beat the 12 apostles — the question on the table is, why is Stephen so cordial? A few observations. First, he does not seem to be taking their behavior toward him personally. The moment is not lost on Stephen. He's acutely aware of the danger he is in, but he remembers his mission, which was the same as Jesus. He does not want to condemn them. He wants them to know the truth. So he speaks to them in a way fitting that purpose. He does not retaliate against them for mistreating him. Second, Stephen understands that their behavior is symptomatic of a bigger issue. He knows what the Apostle Paul will later go on to understand and share with Timothy. As we read in 2 Timothy 2:25–26, Paul says this: "Opponents must be gently instructed in the hope that God will grant them repentance, leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape the trap of the devil who has taken them captive to do his will." Stephen understands that these people have been taken captive by the devil so that they would do his will. But Stephen hopes that they will come to their senses. So he begins by instructing them gently. And in his approach, Stephen is reflecting the very heart of God. Back in Ezekiel 33:11, we hear God say this: "As surely as I live, declares the sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn, turn from your evil ways. Why will you die, people of Israel?" Stephen does not clap back at them. Third, he is gentle because he is focused. He knows it's not about him. This encounter is much bigger than Stephen, and he is keenly aware of it, and we can tell by the way he conducts himself. It's a powerful lesson for us today, isn't it? If we're going to stand firm against hate and persecution, we will resist the urge to take people's behavior toward us personally. We remember that their behavior is symptomatic of a bigger issue. They are captives of the devil, and what we want to stay focused on is our mission to be active agents in freeing them through spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. Now one last point before we move on. We are 19 verses into Stephen's speech and in all his words, Stephen is not trying to defend himself. He has not yet answered the question that was put before him: are these charges true? He hasn't quite answered that question, at least not directly. Acts 7:20–43: Moses, the Burning Bush, and the Pattern of Rejected MessengersBut let's get back to the rest of Stephen's speech, because I think we'll find some more for us to consider. "Now at that time, Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. For three months, he was cared for by his family. When he was placed outside, Pharaoh's daughter took him and brought him up as her own son. Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in speech and action. When Moses was 40 years old, he decided to visit his own people, the Israelites. He saw one of them being mistreated by an Egyptian, so he went to his defense and avenged him by killing the Egyptian. Moses thought that his own people would realize that God was using him to rescue them, but they did not. The next day, Moses came upon two Israelites who were fighting. He tried to reconcile them by saying, men, you are brothers. Why do you want to hurt each other? But the man who was mistreating the other pushed Moses aside and said, who made you ruler and judge over us? Are you thinking of killing me as you killed the Egyptian yesterday? When Moses heard this, he fled to Midian, where he settled as a foreigner and had two sons. After 40 years had passed, an angel appeared to Moses in the flames of a burning bush in the desert near Mount Sinai. When he saw this, he was amazed at the sight. As he went over to get a closer look, he heard the Lord say, I am the Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses trembled with fear and did not dare to look. Then the Lord said to him, take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground. I have indeed seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groaning and have come down to set them free. Now come, I will send you back to Egypt. This is the same Moses they had rejected with the words, who made you ruler and judge. He was sent to be their ruler and deliverer by God himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush. He led them out of Egypt and performed wonders and signs in Egypt, at the Red Sea, and for 40 years in the wilderness." Once again, Stephen has done an excellent job in summarizing that next section. He pretty accurately brings the story to the lawgiver himself, the man Moses. But let me begin to tie some pieces of this puzzle together for us. Stephen brings up Joseph and Moses very strategically. Joseph, with his dreams, and Moses, even at his birth, were both marked by God for God's use and for the good of his people. But in both cases, they were originally rejected. In other words, our ancestors, says Stephen, missed God's messengers the first time. Even though the signs were there, they rejected their God-appointed leaders the first time. And Stephen is about to be very clear about the implications of this for them. He mentions God being with Moses in Midian and in Egypt. All the geographical references that Stephen has made is the point he's taking aim at — the misunderstanding of the temple. They refer to the temple as this holy place. But yet Stephen reminds the Sanhedrin that when Moses was in Midian on Mount Sinai, Moses was commanded to remove his sandals because where he was standing was holy ground. So which is it? Is it the holy ground that Moses was standing on in Mount Sinai in Midian? Or is it this holy place, the temple in Jerusalem? Wherever the presence of God touches down becomes holy. What Stephen is saying is that God is not bound by any single location. This is what the Sanhedrin failed to see in their attempt to defend the temple. And it is a pattern that Stephen is pointing out for them. In addition, Jesus sternly rebuked the religious leaders when he turned over the tables of the money changers and called the temple a den of thieves, because they were keeping people from God. God had left the building, and they were completely oblivious. Let me highlight the wisdom Stephen is using here. First, he knows the word and how to apply it to the situation he is presently in. Second, he understands the charges brought against him and how to use those same charges to highlight the error of his accusers. And finally, he does not lose focus of his mission. And the question on the table for us is, if we were under this pressure, could we do the same? Acts 7:44–53: Stephen Flips the Script — You Are the Ones Who Violated the LawNow Stephen is about to end his time with the Sanhedrin, and it's going to be a colossal end. Let's finish reading. "This is the Moses who told the Israelites, God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your own people. He was in the assembly in the wilderness with the angel who spoke to him on Mount Sinai and with our ancestors, and he received living words to pass on to us. But our ancestors refused to obey him. Instead, they rejected him, and their hearts turned back to Egypt. They told Aaron, make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who led us out of Egypt, we don't know what has happened to him. That was the time they made an idol in the form of a calf. They brought sacrifices to it and reveled in it in what their own hands had made. But God turned away from them and gave them over to the worship of the sun, moon, and stars. This agrees with what is written in the book of the prophets: did you bring me sacrifices and offerings 40 years in the wilderness, people of Israel? You have taken up the tabernacle of Molech and the star of your God Rephan, the idols you made to worship. Therefore, I will send you into exile beyond Babylon. Our ancestors had the tabernacle of the covenant law with them in the wilderness. It had been made as God directed Moses, according to the pattern he had seen. After receiving the tabernacle, our ancestors under Joshua brought it with them when they took the land from the nations God drove out before them. It remained in the land until the time of David, who enjoyed God's favor and asked that he might provide a dwelling place for the God of Jacob. But it was Solomon who built a house for him. However, the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands. As the prophet says, heaven is my throne and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build me, says the Lord? Or where will my resting place be? Has not my hand made all these things? You stiff-necked people, your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You were just like your ancestors. You always resist the Holy Spirit. Was there ever a prophet your ancestors did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him. You who have received the law that was given through angels, but have not yet obeyed it." Stephen ends his speech with a powerful rebuke of the Sanhedrin and this mob. The history of the Jewish people had been one of rebellion, culminating in the murder of Jesus, their long-awaited Messiah. Just as they did with Joseph and Moses, they missed Jesus the first time. I want you to underline verse 53. Stephen courageously tells the truth and provides a proper diagnosis of their problem. In so doing, he flips the script. So you accuse me of violating the law and desecrating the temple? I'm not guilty of either one of these, but you are. The evidence he provides is rightly in the law of Moses, and he records the embarrassing incident with the golden calf. This was abject idolatry, which got them exiled, and it's clear that their stubborn rebellion continued to blind them. Making the Means the End: The Sanhedrin's Fatal Error with the Law and the TempleThe inherent problem the Sanhedrin and the mob suffered from was that they made the means the end and did away with the end itself. What do I mean by that? Well, in Galatians 3:24–25, Paul says this: "So the law was our guardian until Christ came, that we might be justified by faith. Now that this faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian." The law was the means by which we would be ready for Christ, who was literally the end of the law — he was what the law was preparing us for. But they made the means, the law, the end, and did away with the end itself, Jesus. Jesus says the same thing about the temple. In Mark 11:17, Jesus says this: "My house will be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves." The temple was the means by which all the nations would come to know who God is and pray to him. They turned the temple into a money-making machine, and they did away with God altogether. It's the same pattern. Acts 7:54–60: The Stoning of Stephen — Dying Like His LordLike all who stubbornly live in rebellion and refuse to hear the truth, they go after Stephen. "When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Look, he said, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God. At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of the young man named Saul. And while they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. Then he fell on his knees and cried out, Lord, do not hold this sin against them. When he had said this, he fell asleep. And Saul approved of their killing." Stephen took a bold stand and it cost him his life. But here's the beauty of this passage. Stephen died in the same way his Lord did. He dies praying for the forgiveness of the people stoning him, just like Jesus. And because Stephen was so faithful to his call, the heavens opened so that Stephen sees the Lord Jesus rise from his throne to welcome his faithful servant home. How to Stand Firm Against Hate and Persecution: Look Up, Not AroundHow do we stand firm in the face of hate and persecution? First and foremost, we look up, not around. We look to Jesus. We need to be focused on Jesus because he is all he's asking us to be, and he has done all he's asking us to do. That includes suffering for his sake. Second, we need to remember one important thing. We're not simply spectators or victims. We are active agents of change. In other words, we do not lose sight of the mission, because this is why we are here. You know, I know some people — I've spoken to some people about this passage — and they seem to think that it's unfair for Stephen to have died. After all, why couldn't God have saved him? He saved the apostles. He saved John and Peter. Why couldn't he have saved Stephen? But if we read Acts 1:8, where Jesus told the disciples that they would be his witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria, and in the uttermost parts of the world, we begin to realize one important thing. Up until this point, guess where the church was localized? Jerusalem. Guess where they had their small groups? Jerusalem. Guess where they had their worship time? Jerusalem. But where were they supposed to go? But after Stephen was killed, we read this: "On that day, a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria." Stephen's death was the catalyst for the advancement of the gospel outside of Jerusalem. Remember, our faith is not a faith that we simply talk about. Our faith is a full contact sport. If by my life or death I can advance the gospel, I will. Stephen did it by his death. Closing: Active Agents of God's Redemptive WorkLet me read you one quote as I close. It says, "Suffering becomes the ongoing evidence that creation awaits restoration. And believers, bearing God's image and indwelt by the Spirit, participate in that redemptive work. Rather than passive victims of evil, they become agents through whom God's original creative intention progressively reasserts itself against the disorder introduced by sin." Will you be a part of that? Because this is our purpose. And once we understand our purpose and totally embrace it, then we look at the world very differently. We can stop asking why the world is the way it is. Because that's really the wrong question. The right question is, what are we going to do about it? Because we are supposed to be the active and willing participants in God's redemptive work. Is this work dangerous? Yeah. Stephen found that out very clearly. Remember, Jesus died for us first. So it is not like God is asking us to throw away our lives cavalierly. Far from it. Stephen understood the stakes and was keenly aware of the moment. But he determined that his life was worthy of sacrificing for the gospel. He stood firm. Can we? Let me pray. Our gracious God and Father, we thank you for this time that we can be in your word. We are reminded, Lord, that it's you who preserved your word, lo, these 2,000 years for us, this generation of believers, to learn and glean from. I pray, Father, for whatever lessons that may have been brought out here, that those seeds would be scattered in the hearts of your people and that they would grow into folks that would stand firm for the advancement of the gospel. Our only desire, Lord God, is like Stephen. We ask humbly that you would use us as we serve, and that you would be glorified. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. Amen. South Run Baptist Church | 8712 Selger Drive, Springfield, VA 22153 | Sunday Worship at 11am Serving Springfield, Burke, West Springfield, Lorton, Alexandria, Fort Belvoir, and Franconia, Virginia. Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

In this enlightening episode of Who's Who in the Bible, Fr. Assisi Saldanha, C.Ss.R., masterfully guides us through the dramatic final stages of the Exodus. Focusing on the tenth plague, the institution of the Passover, and the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, Fr. Assisi connects these foundational biblical events to our own spiritual journey toward the Promised Land.He explores the deep significance of the three major feasts—Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot—and their fulfillment in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. With historical context provided through the reigns of Ramesses II and Merneptah, this presentation is a profound reflection on faith, law, and eternal life. We warmly invite you to watch this insightful exploration of salvation history.

When the storms of life hit, as they do, right, what we do is that instinctively we grab a life vest, we look for a lifeline here on earth, a worldly solution if you will … instead of turning to the One who can calm the storm. So, you have to ask yourself then, who exactly is the Lord of our lives?   Just Like the Rest Over these last few weeks we have been looking at what it means to get our feet back on solid ground in life. You know, when we are going through storms we are bobbing around like a tiny little boat floundering on an angry sea and sometimes we don't know which way to head – which way is up, which way is down. All we want to do is put our feet back on solid ground. And it turns out that you don't always find that solid ground exactly where you expect to find it. And we have been exploring this whole idea of getting our feet on solid ground through the story of a humble woman called Hannah who honoured God and turned to Him in the midst of her storm - and at completely the other end of the scale, a priest called Eli and his sons Hophni and Phinehas. They were evil guys and they got their just rewards and the nation of Israel who struggled with their God. If you've got a Bible, grab it and open it up. Over these last three weeks we have been looking at the first seven chapters of the Book of First Samuel. Now First Samuel appears about a third of the way through the Old Testament. We are going to finish off that series today with the crux of what this is all about. We are going to have a look at the decision that ultimately determines whether our feet are on solid ground or not. It's a decision between the obvious and the not so obvious. What is it that you and I can decide to do that will absolutely ensure that no matter what comes our way, our feet are on solid ground? Now the pivot of this whole story – the contrast of Hannah on the one hand and Hophni and Phinehas and their dad, Eli, on the other – happens, if you remember the verse – if you have been with us over these last few weeks – in First Samuel chapter 2, verse 30, where God says: Those who honour Me, I will honour but those who despise Me will be treated with contempt. We are going to pick up that story today. The priests are dead, they've got their just rewards, Hannah's son – she couldn't have a son remember, but she now has a son, he is grown up – Samuel is the judge and the prophet and the leader over all Israel. Now that's a really important concept – they didn't have a King. All the other nations had a King but Israel did not because Israel's system of government was a theocracy – that meant that God was their King. And God appointed judges and prophets to declare His Word over the people of Israel. So He administered justice – this was Samuel – he was a prophet who declared the will of God and God was the King to the people. Now that was unique among the nations and as we saw over the last few weeks, when they honoured God; when they obeyed Him, that nations' feet were on solid ground. Now the story takes an interesting twist. We are going to pick it up in chapter 8 of the Book of First Samuel. Here's how it goes: When Samuel became old, he made his sons judges over Israel. The name of his first born son was Joel and the name of his second was Abijah and they were judges in Beer-sheba. Yet his sons didn't follow in his ways but turned aside after gain – they took bribes and perverted justice. Then all the elders of Israel came together and they came to Samuel at Ramah and they said to Samuel "You are old and your sons don't follow in your ways, appoint for us then, a King to govern over us like the other nations." But this displeased Samuel when they said "Give us a King to govern us. So Samuel prayed to the Lord and the Lord said to Samuel "Listen to the voice of the people in all that they say to you for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me from being King over them. Just as they have done to Me from the day I brought them up out of Egypt to this day, forsaking Me, serving other gods so also they are doing to you. Now then, listen to their voice – only you shall solemnly warn them and show the ways of the King who shall reign over them." So Samuel reported all the words of God to the people who were asking him for a King. He said these will be the ways of the King who will reign over you: he will take your sons and appoint them to his chariots and to be his horse men and to run before his chariots and he will appoint for himself commanders of thousands and commanders of fifties and some will plough his ground and reap his harvest and to make his implements of war and to make his chariots. He will take your daughters to be perfumers and cooks and bakers. He will take the best of your fields and your vineyards and olive orchards and give them to his courtiers. He will take one tenth of your grain and of your vineyards and give them to his officers and his courtiers. He will take your male and female slaves and the best of your cattle and donkeys and put them to his work. He will take one tenth of your flocks and you shall be his slaves and in that day you will cry out because of your King whom you have chosen for yourselves but the Lord will not answer you in that day. But the people refused to listen to the voice of Samuel. They said "No, we are determined to have a King over us so that we may also be like the other nations and that our King may govern us and go out before us and fight our battles." Isn't that interesting? All this time you go right back to the slavery, when Israel was in slavery in Egypt and God released them through some major miracles and through the parting of the Red Sea and then into the Promised Land and they captured the Land, battle after battle. All this time it was a simple, simple principle that God honours those who honour Him. And God did and God won the battles for them and God delivered them. And now they reject their King, their God who is able and willing to bless them and to protect them. Why? Well, actually, first they blame Samuel's sons and no doubt there is something in that, but actually you find out the reason towards the end of that verse. Look again at the passage we have just read: verses 19 and 20 of chapter 8: But the people refused to listen to the voice of Samuel. They said "No, we are determined to have a King over us so that we also may be like other nations and that our King may govern us and go to battle and fight our battles for us." They wanted to be like all the other nations. Now, let's think about that. Israel is unique – God is their King, He promised them the Promised Land, He has the power to make it happen. Whenever they honour Him He does make it happen and yet they want to reject Him – why? So that they can be like all the other nations! Is that stupid or what? None of the other nations have an invincible god as their king so why do they want to be like the other nations? Because in the heat of the battle they want a king they can see – a king of flesh and blood! Their enemies have a king at the head of their army so they want one too and they are prepared to give up the perfect power of the King of Kings for a poor substitute so that they can have a king that they can see! How often do we do that? How often do we put our faith in things that we can see – in our investment portfolio to provide wealth is fine until the economy goes belly up, in our career, which is fine until our health fails, in other people, which is fine until they desert us or fail us? See when we hit a storm you know what we want to do? We want to reach out and put a life preserver on instead of go to the One who can stop the storm. We want something we can see and touch and feel, instead of putting our faith in the One whom we can't see. A favourite Scripture you hear people quote is Second Corinthians chapter 5, verse 7 that says "We walk by faith and not by sight" and that's great until the storm hits, when we will definitely go for something that we can see and touch and feel, ahead of someone we can only see by faith – we'll pick that anytime. And that's the point – when we step off solid ground onto a stormy ocean.   What's the Problem? Yea, just like Israel, we want to be just like everyone else some days; just normal, everyday people who put our faith in things that we can touch and feel. It is something the Apostle Paul rejected – have a listen – Second Corinthians chapter 5, beginning at verse 1. He says: We know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house, not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this tent we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, if indeed, when we have taken it off, we will not be found naked. For while we are still in this tent, we groan under our burden because we wish not to be unclothed but to be further clothed, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. He who has prepared us for this very thing, is God, who has given us His Spirit as a guarantee so we are always confident, even though we know that while we are at home in the body, we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith not by sight. Yes, we do have confidence and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. See, here Paul is talking about the struggle between the temporal and the eternal – between what we can see and what we can't see. And Paul is saying "Look, I have got a body; I've got a tent but one day that is going to pass away and my faith isn't in the "here and now" – my faith is in God – I walk by faith not by sight." It's about where he puts his confidence. Now, let me tell you how easy it is to appoint an earthly King, like what Israel was trying to do and to reject the King of Kings – even when we are out and about doing God's work. This ministry that I am involved in, Christianityworks, it has been going for fifty years out of Australia and yet when I took over four years ago, there were hardly any people supporting the ministry. It had almost no income, it was going broke, there were no programmes going to air. And four years ago – it's still pretty fresh – I remember the panic attacks over finances – you see the money dwindling away and wondering when we are going to go broke – not if but when. You see, what I was doing: I wanted a big bank balance – something that would provide security that I could see and I had to turn away from that. I had to put my trust in God alone and these days, sometimes, let me tell you, things are still very, very tight. And whilst I do my part in all of that, as a good steward of the money that supporters entrust to the ministry, over and over and over and over again, let me tell you, as we have done our best just to simply honour God in all that we do here in the ministry of Christianityworks, He has honoured us. It's as simple as that! Now, let's get back to the story and find out where the real problem was here with Israel and the Kingship of God. Well, Israel got its very first King like all the other nations and God, through the prophet Samuel, appointed Saul. Let's have a look at it in the first couple of verses of chapter 9 of the Book of First Samuel: There was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish son Abiel son of Zeror son Becorath son of Aphiah, a Benjaminite, a man of wealth. He had a son whose name was Saul, a handsome young man. There was not a man among the people of Israel more handsome than he – he stood head and shoulders above everyone else. So the prophet hears from God and God says "Saul is the King. If they want a King they are going to get Saul". And initially at least, after he is anointed, Saul has success because even though God was rejected by His people in favour of Saul, God is a God of grace and He continued to honour them and bless them even though He warned them of how the King would turn out. We saw that earlier. See, sometimes when we reject the Kingship of God in our lives and choose something else – career or wealth or whatever it is – initially we have some success but as we will see later, Saul ended up in abject failure. In fact, Saul (if you want to read it in First Samuel chapter 31) committed suicide in the middle of battle. It's easy for you and me to say "Well, what's the problem here? It's probably not a bad thing that they had a King to lead the nation. What's the problem? I do have to invest and plan for my retirement, sure, but do we do it under the Kingship of God?" When God is calling us to give a substantial amount of our money to let's say the poor, do we do that? Or do we sock it away for our retirement? Who or what do we put our trust in, who or what do we submit to? Listen again to what Samuel said to Israel – First Samuel chapter 10, beginning at verse 17: Samuel summoned the people to the Lord at Mizpah and he said to them "Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, "I brought you up out of Egypt – I rescued you from the hand of the Egyptians and from the hand of all the kingdoms that were oppressing you. But today, you have rejected your God, the God who saves you from all your calamities and all your distresses and you have said "No! but set a King over us." That's the problem – they rejected their God; they rejected the great Unseen for a King who was far inferior to God but whom they could see. See, despite all that they knew – they knew that God had brought them out of Egypt; they knew that He had rescued them from the Egyptians; they knew that He had rescued them from all their oppressors. God said "I did all that. Couldn't you see that I was your King? Couldn't you see that I am worthy of your trust? Couldn't you see that with Me you have your feet on solid ground? Couldn't you see that?" No, they couldn't see and no, some days we can't see it either. We are blinded by the dazzle of what this world has to offer. It never ceases to amaze me, you know, in times of economic prosperity, people behave as though there is no tomorrow. They put their faith in the money they are earning, their stock portfolio that is growing and the house that's mortgaged up to the hilt and the new car and all that stuff. But then, when the economy eventually takes a dive - as mind you, it always does – they cry out and scream at the price of petrol and the high interest rates and the risk of losing their home. Can I tell you something? You can't live a life of peace if you are putting your trust in an inferior king. You can't have security when you put your faith in those things that will fail. You can't! I can't! It just doesn't work.   Choose your King I want to take us right back now to the beginning of this series – to the first chapter of First Samuel. It's the story of a simple woman called Hannah - she was one of Elkanah's two wives. The other wife Peninnah had children, Hannah had none. And if you have ever been in that situation where you can't have kids or you know someone in that situation, you know how incredibly painful that is and to make it worse the other wife Peninnah, would give Hannah a hard time over this. Pretty tough! There is a real storm that was going on year after year after year – this pain of being childless. Now Hannah had a lot of choices in that space. She could have been angry, she could have lashed out or she could have withdrawn. Her husband didn't help her much so what does Hannah do? First Samuel chapter 1, verse 9: Once they had finished eating and drinking in Shiloh, Hannah stood up. Now Eli the priest was sitting on a chair by the doorpost of the Lord's temple. In the bitterness of her soul, Hannah wept and prayed to the Lord and she made a vow. She said "Lord God Almighty, if You will only look upon Your servant's misery and remember me and do not forget Your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life and no razor will ever be used on his head. And as she kept praying to the Lord, Eli the priest, looked at her mouth – Hannah was praying in her heart – her lips were moving but her voice couldn't be heard. Now, Eli thought she was drunk and said to her "How long will you keep on getting drunk. Get rid of your wine." She said "Not so, my lord, I'm a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the Lord. (Isn't that beautiful?) Don't take your servant for a wicked woman. I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief." And Eli answered "Well, go in peace and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked for." She said "May your servant find favour in your eyes." Then she went away and she ate something and her face was no longer downcast. Now it turns out – see, Hannah was a "nobody", not like the priest – she wasn't a man in the social structure – she wasn't a priest, she was a "nobody". She just goes and pours out her heart to God amidst the bitterness of her soul. Turns out God honours those who honour Him, as she does have a son, she calls him Samuel. She gives him back to Eli; she gives him over to God as soon as he is weaned and he comes and serves as a priest in the temple, under Eli, whom she discovers later, is a bad dude. This priest is supposed to be a go-between between God and His people, yet he and his sons have no respect for God and His people at all, so Samuel is put there by faith by her. Now we have heard the story: Samuel grows up, he becomes a mighty man of God. Do you know why that happened? Because Hannah honoured God! And God says "I will honour those who honour Me but those who despise Me, will be treated with contempt". And that's what Eli and his sons Hophni and Phinehas found out when they died because they did not honour God. And then we saw how, because of them, Israel ends up rejecting God. And you know how that ends up? In defeat! Saul ends up committing suicide – you can look at it in chapter 31, the last chapter of the Book of First Samuel. Israel rejected God as its King and God said "Well ok, I am going to warn you – you're rejecting Me. I am going to give you a King but this is not going to go well for you." And because they wanted a King that they could see, they rejected God anyway, they chose Saul and it ended up not well for them. The Philistines defeated them, Saul died. The one who is honoured by God is the one who honoured Him! How did she do that? In her misery and her pain; in the bitterness of her soul – she didn't act up, she didn't complain, she didn't grumble – she put her trust simply in God. She poured her soul out to Him, God honoured her. Eli didn't, his sons didn't! At the end of the day, Saul didn't, Israel certainly didn't – the one who did was Hannah and God honoured her because she honoured Him. I want to lay a challenge before each one of us today through this story. We all go through times, you know, when we would like to have our feet on solid ground and yet we are all over the place and things don't seem to be working out and everyone is coming up against us. I want to lay a challenge before each one of us today – you and me – we have to choose our King – it's either God or it is something else we trust in. You can't have both – you can't serve two kings, you can't serve two masters. It's either going to be God, the great unseen reality; the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords or its going to be something we see – a life preserver that we can grab onto. Problem is, life preservers might stop us from sinking for a while but they can't stop the storm. Only God can stop the storm! There are people listening today and your life seems to be one endless storm. Maybe you are absolutely sick to death of being tossed around by angry waves; maybe you are in that boat today. Well, it is time to put your feet back on solid ground. It is time to say "You know something? I may be a nobody like Hannah, it may be that I am not an Eli, I'm not a Samuel, I'm not a David, I'm not some big person – I'm some little unknown person like Hannah, that may will be the case. And yet in this whole story she is the only one who received God's blessing because she is the only one who honoured God. She received her son Samuel who had such a mighty influence over the history of her nation." And Hannah was onto something! Maybe today is time to say "I choose my King". Either we are going to choose God or we are going to reject Him and choose something that we can feel or touch. I can choose a "Saul" in my life – you can choose a 'Saul' in your life and it may give us a sense of security for a little while. You know, when that boat is bobbing round the ocean, you grab for the life preserver – that's a pretty good thing. Probably a pretty good feeling but the life preserver doesn't get us out of the storm. It just keeps us floating there for a bit longer. Only One – the only One – that can get us out of the storm; the only One that can put our feet back on solid ground is our King, God. You want your feet on solid ground? This whole story that we have been looking at over the last four weeks in the first nine or ten chapters of First Samuel – this story is about the Kingship of God. And the story tells us very clearly – you want to put your feet on solid ground? Go honour God – go choose Him as your King – go submit to Him as your King! Let me ask you something – which one is going to work, the King of Kings or Saul? Which one is going to put your feet back on solid ground? Which King will you choose in your life?

NEW: Send us Your Comments!This Week's Topics:House Votes to Stop Iran War 3:00Iran threatens to block Access to Red Sea 5:00FBI Arrests Iranian Spy in California 7:00DOJ Charges 9 In Ohio with Fraud 10:00VIDEO: Feds Create System to Catch Fraud 12:30VIDEO: Dr. Oz Blows Up Obamacare Fraud 20:00Mullin Shows Antifa Behind NJ Riots 24:30Senate FINALLY Move to Fund ICE 27:30The Truth about Data Centers 30:00Data Center Build-Out's Falling Behind 39:30Trump Signs AI “Cyber Defense” EO 42:30We Got One! John Bolton Takes Plea Deal! 44:30Proof Hunter Biden Laptop was Deep State 45:30Trump Calls Out California Election Fraud 47:00VIDEO: Trump Defends Jan 6th Patriots 48:30SCOTUS Allows New Alabama Voting Map 50:00Trump Act to END Illegal Voting by Mail 50:30Butler Shooting Victims Sue Feds 54:00Trump Reclassifies 8,000 Senior Feds 1:03:30Trump Acts to Help Coal Industry 1:07:00New Bill Hopes to increase supply of Home 1:10:00US Adds 172,000 New Jobs in May! 1:12:00More Charges against SPLC filed 1:15:00Big Problems for NASA Moon Plans 1:17:30FBI Warns about Hacking of Gas Stations 1:20:3060 Minutes is Getting Un-Woke Fast 1:22:00Covid Vaccines May be causing Cancer 1:26:30VIDEO: Proof Ivermectin Works! 1:28:30NY Dems to remove “Mother” & “Father” 1:32:00Support for Gay Marriage & LGBTQ Falling 1:34:00Republicans FAIL to Stop Transgender Laws 1:37:00Samsung Leaves NJ for Texas 1:38:30Beck RIPS Krugman's De-MAGAfication 1:39:00Dem's Hated by their own Voters 1:48:30Support the showView our Podcast and our other videos and news stories at:https://wethepeopleconvention.org/Podcast-Player-PageSend Comments and Suggestions to:info@WethePeopleConvention.org

This episode is part 7 in a study of the book of Exodus. The Egyptians attempt to follow the Israelites into the Red Sea... which turns out to be a very bad idea. https://thebiblestudypodcast.com/exodus-14-egyptians-drowned/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Why does Moses still matter today?In this episode of the Bible and Theology Matters Podcast, host Dr. Paul Weaver is joined by Dr. Michael Emmons, Chris Katulka, and Steve Herzig to explore the life, leadership, and legacy of Moses—one of the most influential figures in the Bible.Discover how God transformed a Hebrew child rescued from death, a prince raised in Pharaoh's palace, and a shepherd in Midian into the deliverer of Israel and mediator of the Mosaic Covenant. Learn the theological significance of the Exodus, the Passover, the Ten Plagues, the Red Sea crossing, Mount Sinai, and the giving of God's Law.This conversation examines Moses' role in God's redemptive plan, his unique relationship with God, his failures and triumphs, and how his life points forward to Jesus Christ.In This EpisodeThe miraculous birth and preservation of MosesMoses' upbringing in Pharaoh's householdThe significance of the tribe of LeviMoses' flight to Midian and years as a shepherdThe burning bush and God's call on Moses' lifeThe Ten Plagues and God's judgment on EgyptThe Passover and Israel's deliveranceCrossing the Red SeaThe Mosaic Covenant and the LawMoses as mediator between God and IsraelMoses' failure at MeribahThe death of Moses and the Promised LandLessons Christians can learn from Moses todayKey Biblical PassagesExodus 1–20Numbers 12Numbers 20Deuteronomy 34Acts 7Matthew 17Hebrews 8About Bible and Theology MattersBible and Theology Matters exists to equip believers with biblical truth, theological clarity, and practical application for faithful Christian living.

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he covers today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this episode of The Wright Report, Bryan reports that hopes for an Iran peace deal are fading fast, with the IRGC now threatening to open a new war front in the Red Sea alongside the Houthis and a leaked, expletive-laced phone call between President Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu revealing the worst rift between the two leaders in over a year. Bryan walks through Iran's escalating attacks on commercial ships, the strategic stakes of a potential Red Sea closure for Saudi oil exports, and uses the case of arrested IRGC terrorist Mohammad al-Saadi to argue that Trump's blind spot is trying to negotiate in good faith with religious fanatics who view this as an existential war. He lays out a clear path forward: a televised tactical retreat where Trump turns Europe, Asia, and the Arab states into the foil and puts America First, then pivots to a wave of Democrat judges rolling back Trump policies on the "86-47" assassination phrase, transgender troops, the anti-weaponization fund, the Kennedy Center renaming, and the green card abroad rule. Plus, Bryan closes with genuinely good news: US manufacturing just hit a four-year high under Trump's Triple B bill, General Dynamics is finally restarting 155 artillery shell production in Texas, and the Pentagon's new $1 billion Drone Dominance contest is recruiting backyard tinkerers and former drone racing champions to out-build America's adversaries. "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32   Keywords: Bryan Dean Wright, The Wright Report, Iran peace talks collapse, IRGC Red Sea threat, Houthis Bab al-Mandab, Saudi oil pipeline, Sariska Five ship attack, Strait of Hormuz blockade, Trump Netanyahu phone call, Israel Lebanon incursion, Hezbollah ceasefire, Mohammad al-Saadi IRGC terrorist, taqiyya Islamist threat, America First Iran exit, Judge Randolph Moss, 86-47 assassination phrase, James Comey, Accountability Now USA, transgender troops ruling, Pentagon trans policy, Judge Leonie Brinkema, anti-weaponization fund, Kennedy Center renaming, Judge Chris Cooper, green card policy reversal, sanctuary cities, Soros DAs, Judge Dugan Milwaukee, US manufacturing four-year high, Triple B bill, General Dynamics 155 shells, Mesquite Texas plant, Marines Madis System, anti-drone Humvee, Stinger missiles, Drone Dominance contest, Pentagon small drones

For thousands of years, Yemen has been one of the most important crossroads in the world.  It was home to ancient kingdoms, the legendary land of Sheba, the port that gave mocha coffee its name, and a strategic gateway between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.  Its mountains, tribes, empires, and divisions have shaped a history as rich as it is complicated.  Learn more about the history of Yemen on this episode of Everything Everywhere Daily. Sponsors Newspapers.com Honor the past by uncovering its stories at Newspapers.com  Promo Code EVERYTHINGEVERWHERE Samsara Don't wait for the next accident to take action. Head to Samsara.com/EVERYTHING ButcherBox Get your choice between chicken breast or top sirloin for a year OR ground beef for life, PLUS $20 off when you go to ButcherBox.com/everything Quince Go to quince.com/daily for 365-day returns, plus free shipping on your order! Mint Mobile Save 50% on Unlimited premium wireless plans starting at $15/month at MintMobile.com/EED Audible Listen to Project Hail Mary Audible.com/hailmary Fast Growing Trees Get 20% off your first purchase when using the code DAILY at checkout at fastgrowingtrees.com/daily Subscribe to the podcast!  https://everything-everywhere.com/everything-everywhere-daily-podcast/ -------------------------------- Executive Producer: Charles Daniel Associate Producers: Austin Oetken & Cameron Kieffer   Become a supporter on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/everythingeverywhere Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Ds7Rx7jvPJ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everythingeverywhere/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/everythingeverywheredaily Twitter: https://twitter.com/everywheretrip Website: https://everything-everywhere.com/  Disce aliquid novi cotidie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Craig Grialou, Zach Gershman and former Cardinals linebacker Rob Fredrickson discuss the final week of Cardinals OTAs, the absence of veterans Josh Sweat and Jacoby Brissett, and how new head coach Mike LaFleur is shaping his roster. Plus, they examine Gardner Minshew's early impact on the locker room, Carson Beck's development, Budda Baker's leadership entering his 10th NFL season, and how Arizona's defense could evolve in 2026 as the Cardinals prepare for a pivotal year in a highly competitive division. However, the biggest news of the week came out of Los Angeles as the Rams sent shockwaves through the NFL by acquiring star pass rusher Myles Garrett from the Cleveland Browns.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Almosafer Became Saudi Arabia's Travel Giant | CEO Muzzammil Ahussain 183 We sits down with the CEO of Almosafer, to discuss the trends, opportunities, and challenges shaping the Kingdom's travel sector. We explore Vision 2030's tourism ambitions, the evolution of Hajj and Umrah, and the impact of projects such as The Red Sea, AlUla, and Qiddiya.  The conversation also covers airline connectivity, hotel supply, visa reforms, changing travel habits, and how AI is reshaping the way people plan and book travel.Whether you're interested in tourism, business, or the future of Saudi Arabia, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

Taken from the story of the Red Sea crossing. Pastor Leanne teaches on how to respond in the moments when our faith is tested. Miracles build our faith but tests mature them.

God's Mercy With Gideon's Doubt by Autumn Dickson The book of Judges records a time period in which Israel had no centralized prophet. There was apostasy and partial restorations as the Israelites would sway into worshipping like the Canaanites did. The Lord sometimes sent judges to help Israel against their enemies. These judges were charismatic, military leaders. Some of the judges would save all of Israel; other judges were more regional. Gideon was one of these regional judges, primarily protecting Manasseh, Asher, Zebulun, Naphtali, and Ephraim. Gideon is interesting because he struggled with his faith in the Lord, and yet, the Lord was merciful. There are plenty of instances in the scriptures where the Lord doesn't seem to respond to that very well. Right after the Red Sea parted, the Israelites demanded a sign of Moses to show his favor with God. They were complaining and challenging Moses to show a sign. The place was named Massah as a memorial to their lack of faith. When Zechariah was told that his wife would have a son, he didn't believe it because she was old. He was struck as a mute. Thomas the apostle was likewise rebuked for his lack of faith. Gideon receives not just one, but multiple signs from the Lord. The angel burns up his offering to the Lord. His blanket is covered with dew while the ground is dry one night; his blanket is dry while the ground is wet one night. As he stands in the camp with his 300 men to go against the Midianites, the Lord encourages him to go spy on the Midianites and see what they're saying in order to receive comfort. He does so and overhears a Midianite sharing a dream in which a barley loaf came and flattened a tent. The Midianite's companion interprets it as God helping Israel defeat them. Here is Gideon's response. Judges 7:15 And it was so, when Gideon heard the telling of the dream, and the interpretation thereof, that he worshipped, and returned into the host of Israel, and said, Arise; for the Lord hath delivered into your hand the host of Midian. Multiple signs! God continually blesses Gideon and gives him signs to encourage him along. In fact, Gideon didn't even ask for the last sign. The Lord just gave it to him, and He gave it to Gideon in a powerful way. It would have been one thing to send a dream to Gideon about defeating the Midianites. It would have been easy for Gideon to wonder if it was just wishful thinking. In comparison, hearing the mighty Midianites have a dream and interpret it as defeat by the Israelites was much more powerful in calming Gideon's fears. So why did Gideon get multiple signs while others seem to be rebuked for asking for the same thing? I think there are a lot of reasons because the Lord works according to individual circumstances, but I want to talk about two potential reasons that can be applied in our own lives as we work to approach the Lord. The first reason the Lord was willing to work with Gideon is because the Lord is wise enough to understand that Gideon didn't have much of a relationship with the Lord. The fact that his father had a Baal altar implies that Gideon's family had fallen into idolatry. How much did Gideon know about God? We know Gideon had some knowledge of God because he asks about the deliverance from Egypt, but how much had Gideon experienced God? There's a difference. How much could the Lord reasonably expect Gideon to trust Him? The Lord knew Gideon, but did Gideon know the Lord? The Lord isn't looking for blind, obedient dogs. He is looking to have a true relationship with us. The fact that Gideon was cautious about running into danger isn't a sign that Gideon is faithless; it is more an indication that Gideon did not yet know the Lord. So what does this teach us about our own lives? The Lord will not begrudge us the time it takes to learn how to trust Him; He doesn't mind allowing us to approach Him until we've built up a number of encounters and start to understand His character. David fought off two wild animals before he fought off Goliath. We recently read about Moses whose trust in the Lord was extremely fragile in the beginning; Moses grew to the point where he encouraged the Israelites to have faith in the face of certain death even though he did not yet know the plan for rescue. The Old Testament gives us a front row seat to watching people experience the Lord and grow in their trust of Him. In contrast, imagine a powerful stranger coming up to you and saying, “Trust me.” When you ask them why you should trust them, they respond with, “Because I told you to.” Um…what? You may not immediately hate them or be wary of them, but you're not going to give them your darkest secrets or social security number (or hopefully you won't…). The Lord understands that He is a stranger to us; He is the one who put the veil there. He understands that we need experiences with Him before we're ready to run into danger when He asks. Once again, He isn't looking for blind, obedient dogs. He wants His children to be wise and consciously and voluntarily choose Him. He gave Gideon experiences because Gideon likely hadn't had many previously. He was patient with Israel. He was patient with Moses. The Lord has no problem being patient. If He seems impatient in specific scenarios, we can usually assume it's for the benefit of the person He is working with. He is trying to get their attention or get them moving. Which leads me to my second reason: The Lord allowed Gideon to approach Him multiple times for signs because Gideon's heart was soft. Over and over and over and over and over we read about the Lord responding with intensity in response to a hard heart and responding with mercy and encouragement to a soft heart. Gideon's heart was obviously soft. Look at this verse. Judges 6:17 And he said unto him, If now I have found grace in thy sight, then shew me a sign that thou talkest with me. Gideon approaches the Lord so humbly. When the angel gave him a sign, Gideon immediately built an altar unto the Lord. That night, Gideon went and took down the altar of Baal according to the direction of the Lord. We see this multiple times with Gideon. He approaches the Lord in humility and asks for help knowing the truth. Gideon was willing to follow the truth and power and peace; Gideon was just trying to make sure he was looking in the right direction before moving forward. It is only when we've closed our heart off to that truth and power and peace that the Lord shakes the earth to reach us. I think of the Egyptians that saw all the same signs as the Israelites but didn't bother to ask whether they should follow after the same God as the Israelites. I think of Rahab and her people. The Canaanites were all terrified, but it didn't change who they put their faith in. Only Rahab was willing to follow the Israelite God and was spared because of it. You would think that people would open their eyes and ask, “Is there something here?” You would think that they would pause long enough and open their hearts so that the Lord could speak to them. Gideon asked, but Gideon was likewise prepared to follow through. This was part of why the Lord was so willing to encourage him along. I testify of a Lord that responds with wisdom. He knows what He is doing. He will not condemn us for approaching Him for reassurances if we're doing so with the intent to follow after Him. He doesn't even condemn us when we struggle; His intensity is not a sign of condemnation. It's a sign of God's love in trying to reach us! However the Lord is working in your life, you can take it with the perspective that He is trying to do what's best for you. I'm grateful for a Lord who is wise and can train me so purposefully and deliberately. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Judges 2–4; 6–8; 13–16 – Part 2 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.