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Fr. Mike points out God's remarkable promise of deliverance to Israel even in the midst of their captivity and apparent hopelessness. Even when we don't see God working in our lives, we rejoice in God because we trust and hope in his promise of salvation. Today's readings are Isaiah 25-27, Habakkuk 3, and Proverbs 11:5-8. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
"Notwithstanding you have well done,that you did communicate with my affliction." At first glance, this verse appears to besimply a "thank you" for a financial gift. But it is much more thanthat. Paul is introducing a wonderful truth that we might call the grace ofgiving. Noticewhat he says first: "You have done well." Paul commends thePhilippians. He isn't praising the amount of their gift. He is praising thelove that motivated it. God has always been more interested in the heart thanin the size of the gift. Jesus reminded us of that when He watched the poorwidow place her two mites into the Temple treasury. Others gave much more, butJesus said she had given the most because she gave out of her poverty whileothers gave out of their abundance. God measures giving differently than we do.He measures sacrifice. He measures love. He measures faith. ThenPaul says something very interesting: "You did communicate with myaffliction." Today we usually think of the word"communicate" as talking or sending a message. But that is not whatPaul means. The Greek word is koinōneō. It means to share, to participate, orto have fellowship together. The Philippians were not merely sending money.They were sharing Paul's burden. They were entering into his suffering. Thoughthey were hundreds of miles away, they were saying, "Paul, you are notalone. We are standing with you." Isn't that what Christian fellowship isall about? Theword koinōnia, which is translated "fellowship," appears at the verybeginning of this letter. In Philippians 1:5 Paul thanked God for their"fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now." Now, at theclose of the letter, that same fellowship is still evident. Their partnershiphad not ended. It had continued through prayer... Through encouragement... Andnow through generous giving. True Christian fellowship is much more thanenjoying a meal together or shaking hands after church. It means sharing lifetogether. Romans 12:15 tells us, "Rejoice with them that do rejoice,and weep with them that weep." When one believer hurts, we all hurt.When one believer rejoices, we all rejoice. That is the family of God. ThePhilippians could not remove Paul's chains. They could not release him fromprison. But they could stand beside him by sharing what God had given them. Andthat made all the difference. The same is true today. Not everyone can become amissionary. Not everyone can preach. Not everyone can travel around the worldsharing the Gospel. But every believer can have a part in God's work bypraying, encouraging, and giving. When we support those who are taking theGospel to others, we become partners in that ministry. We share in the workthat God is doing through them. Ioften think about the people who faithfully pray for missionaries around theworld. Others give faithfully each week to support God's work. Some writeencouraging letters. Others quietly meet practical needs. None of those actsmay seem very spectacular. But God sees every one of them. Every act of love isan expression of His grace. That is why I like to call this section "TheGrace of Giving." Giving is not something God wants from us. It issomething His grace produces in us. ThePhilippians did not give because they were pressured. They gave because God'sgrace had filled their hearts. Theirgenerosity was evidence of God's grace at work in their lives. The same is truefor us. When Christ has our hearts, He also has our hands, our time, ourtalents, and yes, even our resources. Giving is never about losing something.It is about sharing in what God is doing. Perhapstoday God is giving you an opportunity to share in someone else's burden. Maybethrough prayer. Maybe through an encouraging word. Maybe through meeting apractical need. Remember, when we share the burdens of others, we arereflecting the heart of Jesus Christ Himself. Let's ask God to make us thatkind of believer.
Werner preaches after David reads the scriptures. Here are the scriptures and questions for further personal thought:Matthew 5:10-1610 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.Salt and Light13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.1 Peter 4:12–14:“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice because you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.”Acts 5:40-42, 40 His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.QUESTIONSDo we need to prepare for Persecution?If so, how could we do this?Which Bible verse(s) could be an anchor to hold us to Jesus in time of Persecution? Do you have a specific verse that helps you in case of hardship/difficulties?Have you every suffered rejection becaues of your Faith in Christ? Can you share about this?What does it mean to be a "Fragrance of Christ", can you give examples how this could look in day to day living? (2 Cor 2:14-16)
Dark seasons don't have to be the end of the story. Chuck shares how one difficult situation became an opportunity to bring hope to someone else. Sometimes the greatest thing we can offer isn't advice or answers, it's simply being a friend. A kind word, a listening ear, and choosing to walk alongside someone can make more of a difference than we realize. As followers of Christ, we're called to love others well, even when life is hard. You never know how God might use your willingness to simply be there. "Carry one another's burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." — Galatians 6:2
Peter presents the Christian life as custom masonry. He paints a picture of believers as living stones -- shaped by pressure, fitted by grace, and assembled with purpose. Horizon's facility echoes this image; its fieldstone exterior emphasizes that suffering is not waste but craftsmanship. As Christ-followers, our faith is built on Christ the Cornerstone, who creates us as his “Bespoke Stonework.” Join Horizon at the Equipping Services for this verse-by-verse study of 1 Peter, as we understand ourselves to be God's intentional, hand-hewn formations.
Living Stones Christian Church East Bay (formerly Great Exchange)
The Shallow End: The world's counterfeit for joy is happiness — a feeling produced by favorable circumstances, which means it's always one piece of bad news away from disappearing. The Deep End: Habakkuk's "yet I will rejoice" with everything stripped away and nothing resolved is the starkest declaration in the canon that this joy is not circumstance-dependent because it is not circumstance-sourced.
Rejoice, the Lord Is King! - Psalm 47 Ryan Adams
Believer or not, it's pretty well understood that idolatry isn't a good thing. And, believer or not, it's pretty natural to assume that idolatry is something that applies to others, not me. But when God defines idolatry, his definition refuses to allow the cushion of wiggle room we'd like to think we have. We are to love him first and best. Certainly not “after” anything or anyone else. But also, not “in addition to.” And, not “alongside.” Unless we love him first and best, we are idolaters. Rejoice, then, that it's his love for us that is first and best, and upon which the certainty of our salvation rests.Series: What Makes Christians Different?
Pursuing Peace | Live Free Week 7 July 19, 2026 Message by Paul Every [Brussels French Speaking Pastor] Scripture References & Sermon Points Philippians 4:2-9 • Rejoice and get reconciled • Pray and get peace • Ponder the praiseworthy
Our God is full of joy and gladness, as it could be translated in 1 Timothy 1:11, we preach the gospel of the “joyful God.” Just so, he also longs for our happiness and joy in all things, whether through good times or bad. Mary has been given a high and lofty task and has taken it on with resolve and faith. But today we hear of her joy in the Lord. As we listen to her, let us rejoice as well! 1. Rejoice in God’s means 2. Rejoice in God’s majesty 3. Rejoice in God’s might 4. Rejoice in God’s mercy 5. Rejoice in God’s memory 6. Rejoice in God’s magnanimity
Essendon have won their first game in 99 days, holding off GWS by three points and it's hard not to be happy for them. Ken Hinkley is set to become the first coach of Tasmania, but is he the right choice and who missed out? Are the teams in the wildcard spots truly finals contenders? Plus, a wrap of all the big issues out of Round 19.ABC AFL commentators Corbin Middlemas and Ben Cameron are joined by a rolling squad of former AFL players and legends of the game to analyse matches, deep dive the stories dominating the footy landscape, recap game highlights and talk through the latest AFL ladder standings. Our squad of Aussie Rules legends runs deep with champion ex-players like Brett Deledio, Marc Murphy and Luke Ball, record-holding coach Mick Malthouse and many more. The team discuss everything from AFL games and fixtures, to the AFL draft and key players' performance, and of course our highlights of the year; AFL Grand Final and AFL State of Origin.For more Australian Rules Football podcast content, catch every episode of ‘The ABC AFL Daily Podcast', hosted by Corbin Middlemas and Ben Cameron on ABC listen or wherever you get your podcasts, and get in touch with them on social media via @abc_sport
Cool session in the stash. Gone from a techno BPM to a laidback chillout mood. Rejoice. Relief.. From the album "BusBusBassBass EP".
THE ODYSSEY is finally upon us! Rejoice! Christopher Nolan's latest epic has set sail into a theater near you. BG & AJ have made it home from their voyage to the cinema and are ready to tell tale of their experience. Plus Craig has some of his own recent life experiences to share. The gang also dives into the Emmy nominations and give their final verdicts on THE BEAR.
In today's episode I will be praying over us, reading Psalm 58, and saying whatever the Holy Spirit prompts me to say after I read the scripture. This is day 58 of a series where I will be reading a Psalm everyday on here for 150 days. I challenge you to come to join me everyday as we use scripture to fight off the enemy and grow us in ways that we can't even imagine. My First Christian Children's book, "You Are Loved" is now available for purchase on Amazon!! Thank you to everyone that has purchased, been praying, supporting, and sharing. All glory goes to God!! Here is the link to purchase: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GZKSPJNB Link to partner with me and give towards my future mission projects: https://pushpay.com/g/globalventurescatoosa?fnd=missionary&fndv=hide&ru=prod&sr=58535&ad=%7b+%22PledgeID%22%3a%22Y01TRFR1VlklMmJMYkY5NmRNJTJiU2dHU21oWVBXQjN2OXRVNkdsNWpjMUFzamRkRkNBUmN2Z2R0MjdmdTZ2eGduc1U%3d%22%7d&nt=Partner%3aMs+Lorena+Espy+ If you want to receive newsletters: submit your info here: www.postable.com/lorenaespy If you want to check out previous Bible studies, click here To Purchase my "Christ Transforms Me" Journal, click here Email me: faithfuelsmyfire@gmail.com Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486483515603028/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmBsSKktGU_8WHVNIxhFuzg The Bible App that I use: http://bible.com/app Instagram: @_lorenacamille_ Never Forget to Choose Faith Over Fear, -Lorena Espy
7/15/26. Five Minutes in the Word scriptures for today: Galatians 4:27a. Rejoice, Barren Woman. Sources: copilot; biblehub.com; Faithlife Study Bible and Logos.com. Blog for this lesson: https://minutesword.blogspot.com/2026/07/joy-for-onceforsaken.html Podcast on YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/@hhwscott Podcast website: https://www.hwscott.net/podcast.php Listen daily at 10:00 am CST on https://kingdompraiseradio.com LISTEN, LIKE, FOLLOW, SHARE! #MinutesWord; @MinutesWord; #dailybiblestudy #dailydevotional #Christian_podcaster Barnes Notes on the Bible https://amzn.to/445yM1g #CommissionsEarned
Psalm 98, Romans 3:21-31
It's Wednesday, July 15th, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Pakistani Christians targeted in absurd blasphemy cases Most blasphemy cases in Pakistan in recent years were fabricated. Officials admitted this to a parliamentary committee last week. Christians were among the people targeted in the hundreds of fabricated cases. The country's blasphemy law criminalizes insulting Islam. People often use the law to target religious minorities like Christians. Just last week, a Pakistani court acquitted a Christian man in this kind of case. Thirty-seven-year-old Dennis Albert had spent two years in prison over false accusations. In Matthew 5:11-12, Jesus said, “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in Heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” British island legalizing assisted suicide The British Channel Island of Jersey is legalizing assisted suicide. The self-governing island is under the British Crown. Jersey received Royal Assent for its so-called “Assisted Dying Law” last week. Once the law takes effect, the territory will be the first place in the British Isles to legalize such killing. Other jurisdictions in the British Isles are also trying to legalize assisted suicide. These include the Isle of Man as well as England and Wales. Arkansas: Best state for religious liberty; New York is the worst First Liberty released its 2026 Religious Liberty in the States report. The index ranks states in America based on how well they protect religious freedom. Only Arkansas and Tennessee received excellent scores on the index. New York and Vermont scored the worst. The majority of states scored below 50 percent on the index. Arkansas' Republican Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders spoke at a press conference after her state won the highest score on the index. Listen. SANDERS: “Jesus commands us to live out our faith boldly. The Constitution protects our rights to do so. In this administration, we don't just believe that Jesus is our living hope. We will always stand up for the rights of Arkansans who believe the same. “I want to thank First Liberty for recognizing Arkansas's work and for honoring us with this ranking. It's something we are very proud of and we will continue to make sure we stay number one.” Michigan pro-life groups will not be compelled to hire pro-aborts A federal judge ruled in favor of pro-life groups in Michigan last week. A state law would require pro-life organizations to hire pro-abortion employees. Right to Life of Michigan and Pregnancy Resource Center challenged this law in court. The recent ruling blocks Michigan from enforcing the law. Amber Roseboom, president of Right to Life of Michigan, said, “The court's decision is a welcome reprieve and reaffirms our fundamental right to hire employees who agree with our life-affirming mission.” New law will make housing more affordable The 21st Century Road to Housing Act became law in the United States. last Saturday. The bipartisan bill is an attempt to make housing more affordable for Americans. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described the law on X. She said, “This bipartisan bill includes policies long championed by the President. It cuts unnecessary red tape, helps increase housing supply, and limits the ability of large institutional investors to purchase single-family homes.” Median home price: $440,600 In related news, home prices continued to rise last month. A report from the National Association of Realtors found that the median sales price of an existing home reached $440,600 in June. That's the highest on record. Lawrence Yun with the National Association of Realtors noted, “Affordability is better than a year ago because wage growth is outpacing home price growth. However, progress on long-term housing affordability could be hampered if inventory growth continues to stall.” People who experienced heartache more likely to turn to Bible Last week, the American Bible Society released the fourth chapter of its “State of the Bible: USA 2026” report. The survey found that people who experienced a negative life event in the past year were significantly more likely to be Bible users than those who had not experienced that challenge. Such challenges included divorce, natural disaster, life-threatening illness or injury, death of a close friend or family member, and unemployment. The report noted, “Amidst hardships, those who regularly engage with Scripture maintain significantly higher flourishing scores.” In John 16:33, Jesus said, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” Worldview listeners weigh in from Kansas, Washington, and Indiana Susan Tarwater in Hoyt, Kansas, wrote me and said, “I do not watch television. So, I depend on The Worldview as a shortened version of important news I need to hear. Especially news that a Christian needs to be aware of without all the glitter.” Tom Lister in Spokane, Washington wrote me to say, “Adam, I listen to your broadcast every weekday morning. I especially like how you keep us informed about the church, the persecution of many, and how, in many places, the church is slipping into apostasy. I also appreciate how you always end on a very positive outlook. Keep up the good fight! I'm a monthly supporter already but might be able to increase the amount.” And Melinda Johnson in Indianapolis, Indiana, wrote, “I've been listening to and reading The Worldview for several years now. My favorite part of the news is hearing about different stories that are not reported by mainstream media -- things like persecuted Christians, updates on abortion, how the Gospel is impacting the world, and issues affecting the conservative Christian movement. “The Worldview is quite different than any other news, even Christian sources, that cover the regular news. Your newscast brings up topics that help me know what to pray for in the world. You and the team are continuing in a great work!” 3 Worldview listeners gave $205 And finally, on Tuesday by 6:00pm Central, only 3 Worldview listeners stepped up to the plate and invested their treasure to fund the six-member team behind The Worldview for another year Our thanks to Teresa in Haverford, Pennsylvania who gave $5 as well as Lawrence in Lynchburg, Virginia and Gary in Westminster, Colorado – both of whom gave $100 Those 3 gifts add up to $205. Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please. (drum roll sound effect) $24,008 (sound effect of people cheering) That means we need to raise a sizeable $32,557 in just three days to hit our $56,565 goal by this Friday, July 17th. Listen, if you have been a monthly donor from a previous year, and you intend to continue with your monthly donation, please email me to let me know, so that I can add your generous help toward our total. And if you would like to make a one-time donation today or start a new monthly pledge, please go to TheWorldview.com, click on Give, select the dollar amount, and make sure to click on the “recurring” button if that's your wish. If everybody does something, we can reach our $123,500 finish line to fund this upcoming year. Go to TheWorldview.com, click on Give. Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, July 15th, in the year of our Lord 2026. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.
Rejoice! Fi's flaky foot is no more. Stay tuned to find out what finally fixed the mystery ailment. Jane and Fi also also ponder authentic greek yoghurt, what makes a good chicken schnitzel, and what they'll be eating while watching the England men's semi final...is it obvious we recorded just before lunch? Plus, they're joined by fashion designer Amanda Wakeley OBE to talk about her book 'Style DNA'You can buy tickets for Fringe by the Sea: https://www.fringebythesea.com/off-air-with-jane-fi-and-special-guest-jan-ravens/Our book club pick is a collection of short stories! 'Interpreter of Maladies' is by Jhumpa Lahiri. You can check out our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@OffAirWithJaneAndFiOur most asked about book is called 'The Later Years' by Peter Thornton.If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radioFollow us on Instagram! @janeandfiPodcast Producers: Eve SalusburyExecutive Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Featured playlist: The Church (That Meets in My Home) — https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5Yobt1jZDd9Zzn8Ufa-BNciyYv04Cl6mMy books:Exalted: Putting Jesus in His Place — https://www.amazon.com/Exalted-Putting-Jesus-His-Place/dp/0985118709/ref=tmm_pap_title_0God's Design for Marriage (Married Edition) — https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Design-Marriage-Married-Amazing/dp/0998786306/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1493422125&sr=1-4&keywords=god%27s+design+for+marriageGod's Design for Marriage (Pre-married Edition) — https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Design-Marriage-What-Before/dp/0985118725/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_topSupport us - become a CTC Partner: https://crosstocrown.org/partners/crosstocrown.org@DougGoodin
Over the past several days, we have been looking at one ofthe most important subjects in the Christian life, and that is the battle forthe mind. Today, we want to conclude our thoughts on Philippians 4:4–8 andbegin looking at verse 9. Paul has written in verse 8, “Finally, brethren,whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just,whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are ofgood report, if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on thesethings.” Paulhas reminded us over and over again that our thoughts matter. Today, we want toleave you with one simple statement that I trust you will always remember: Youcannot consistently live above the level of your thinking. Aswe have walked through Philippians together from chapter 1 all the way to thispoint, I've become increasingly aware that Paul is building a carefullyconnected argument. Sometimes we preach verses individually, and rightly so.But when you follow Paul's flow of thought verse by verse, you see thebeautiful progression that the Holy Spirit has inspired. Notice in Philippians4:4–9 how they fit together:Verse4—a joyful spirit: “Rejoice in the Lord always.”Verse5—a gentle spirit: “Let your moderation be known unto all men.”Verse6—a prayerful spirit: “Be careful for nothing.”Verse7—a peaceful heart: “The peace of God... shall keep your hearts and minds.”Verse8—a disciplined mind: “Think on these things.”Then,in verse 9, we'll see an obedient life: “Those things... do.” It'sreally like a staircase. Joy leads to gentleness. Gentleness leads to prayer.Prayer leads to peace. Peace prepares the mind. The renewed mind producesobedient thinking and living. The obedient life results in what we see verse 9promises—a continued fellowship with the God of peace. Idon't think it's incidental that the Apostle Paul changes expressions. In verse7, he promises the peace of God. In verse 9, he promises the God of peace.There's a subtle but profound difference in these two. When we pray, the peaceof God guards us. When we obey, the God of peace walks with us. That may becomeone of the key thoughts of this entire chapter. Anotherobservation that has stayed with me all week is the progression throughout thewhole book of Philippians that we mentioned earlier in our study.Chapter1—the single mind: Christ first.Chapter2—the submissive mind: the mind of Christ in humility.Chapter3—the spiritual mind: pressing toward Christ instead of trusting the flesh.Thenchapter 4—the settled mind, or the secured mind: free from worry because it'sfilled with prayer, peace, and right living. Oh, what a beautiful progression! Now,one final thought before we finish our study on verses 4–8 and begin looking atverse 9. In verse 9, Paul gives us five verbs: “Those things, which ye haveboth learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do.” We see here thecomplete process of discipleship. You learn truth. You receive truth.You hear truth repeatedly. You see truth lived in someone else'slife. Then you do the truth yourself. Overmy 50 years of ministry, that's what we've attempted to do—to hear this truth,to receive it, to let it live in us as we meditate on it, and then to live itout before others around us. Paul said, “You have seen in me.”Paul set an example, and so should we. Let'spray. Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word and for reminding us howimportant our thoughts are. Forgive us for the times we've allowed fear andworry and bitterness and impurity and discouragement to control our thinking. Helpus to bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Jesus Christ.Renew our minds through Your Word. Help us to think on those things that aretrue, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. May our right thinkinglead to right living. May our lives bring honor and glory to You always. Wepray this in Jesus' name. Amen.
July 14, 2026Today's Reading: Romans 6:(1-2) 3-11Daily Lectionary: Judges 14:1-20; Galatians 3:1-22“What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?” (Romans 6:1–2)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.St. Paul is responding to a general vibe of “Well, if all sin is forgiven, then I can do whatever I want.” His “by no means” is a polite way of saying, “That's not how this works. That's not how ANY of this works!” What does it mean, then, when he says, “How can we who died to sin still live in it?” He's talking about Baptism, where the old sinful self is drowned, and the new Adam is raised to life. We have been united to Jesus in a death like His that we might have a resurrection like His. Paul's point is that once a person comes to faith, everything is different. They do not act the same way or think the same way because the Holy Spirit is now working sanctification in them. What he means is this: Christians should act a certain way because Christians look a certain way - they follow a pattern. This pattern is coming from and returning to the gifts of Christ, freely given to sinners. Christians should not live in open sin - nor should they encourage others to do so. We are not competing to see who can be forgiven by God the most amount of times. That won't end well, and it's not a true representation of God's people. We do know that even while the Baptized are sanctified saints of God, we are still sinners, and we will be in need of Jesus' forgiveness until we die. But don't go out trying to be the chief of sinners. Live as one dead to sin and alive to Christ. Live the baptismal grace of God, that all your doings, being ordered by His governance, may be righteous in His sight. You have been made new. The sin and brokenness inherent in you have been paid for by the death and resurrection of Christ. Rejoice, dear Christian, for, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.“Christ Jesus is the ground of faith, Who was made flesh and suffered death; all then who trust in Him alone are built on this chief cornerstone.” (LSB 571:2)Deac. Emma Heinz, registrar for Higher Things.
Guided Question Are you merely believing the truths of the Christian faith, or are you living daily under the empowering control of the Holy Spirit? Summary Many Christians know about the Holy Spirit, yet live with little evidence of His power in their daily lives. Using 1 Corinthians 12:13 as the foundation, this message distinguishes between the baptism of the Holy Spirit—the Spirit's work of bringing every believer into the body of Christ at conversion—and the filling of the Holy Spirit, God's ongoing work of empowering believers to live the Christian life. Dr. Lewis explains that while every Christian has been baptized by the Spirit into Christ's body, not every Christian lives under the Spirit's control. The Spirit-filled life is marked by surrender rather than self-effort, producing genuine spiritual transformation, victory over sin, fruitful service, joyful worship, and a growing awareness of God's leading. Rather than settling for outward religious performance or a "lukewarm" Christianity, believers are called to seek God's control through prayer, dependence, and daily surrender. When Christians yield themselves to the Holy Spirit, they experience the abundant life Jesus promised and become part of a church marked by authenticity, love, holiness, and joyful worship. Outline Nicodemus and the missing reality of the Holy Spirit The baptism of the Holy Spirit at conversion The difference between baptism and filling Characteristics of the Spirit-filled life The danger of outward religion without inward transformation Pursuing the Spirit's control through surrender and prayer The impact of Spirit-filled believers on the church Key Takeaways Every believer is baptized by the Holy Spirit into Christ at salvation. The filling of the Holy Spirit is the ongoing experience of living under God's control. True spirituality is measured by Christlike character, not merely religious activity. Walking by the Spirit brings victory over the desires of the flesh and produces lasting spiritual fruit. Prayer, surrender, and dependence on God position believers to experience the Spirit's power. A Spirit-filled church is marked by authenticity, worship, love, service, and transformed lives. Scripture References John 3:1–8 — Jesus teaches Nicodemus about being born of the Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:13 — Every believer is baptized by one Spirit into one body. Galatians 3:26–28 — Through faith in Christ, believers receive a new identity as God's children. Ephesians 5:18 — Believers are commanded to be continually filled with the Spirit. Romans 8:14 — God's children are led by the Spirit. John 16:13 — The Holy Spirit guides believers into truth. Galatians 5:16–23 — Walking by the Spirit produces victory over sin and the fruit of the Spirit. Ephesians 2:10 — Believers are created in Christ for good works. 1 Thessalonians 5:16–19 — Rejoice, give thanks, and do not quench the Spirit. Luke 4:1–14 — Jesus begins His ministry empowered by the Holy Spirit. Psalm 63:1–2 — Earnestly seeking God leads to experiencing His power. Isaiah 40:31 — Those who wait on the Lord receive renewed strength. Malachi 3:7 — God promises to draw near to those who return to Him. Revelation 3:20 — Christ invites believers into restored fellowship. Recorded 7/11/82
We gain confidence in God by experiencing him personally. And that is possible because of the death and resurrection of Jesus. He is the holy one who did not see corruption. In Christ, we can say that God is our refuge and we will not be shaken.
Philippians 4:1-9 - Rejoice! The Lord is Near | Series: Philippians, Summer of Joy | Justin Hornsby | Preached Jul 12, 2026 How can you experience peace when relationships are strained, anxiety feels overwhelming, or your thoughts won't slow down? In this message from Philippians 4:1-9, Worship Pastor Justin Hornsby continues our Summer of Joy series by reminding us that lasting joy and peace are found in one powerful truth: the Lord is near. The Apostle Paul encourages believers to stand firm in Christ by pursuing unity, choosing reconciliation over division, and extending gentleness to others. He also calls us to replace anxiety with prayer, bringing every concern to God with thankful hearts. While God never promises a life without difficulties, He does promise a peace that surpasses understanding and guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, Paul challenges us to intentionally focus our thoughts on whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and worthy of praise. What fills our minds shapes how we live. Whether you're facing uncertainty, worry, conflict, or simply longing for deeper joy, this message offers biblical encouragement and practical hope rooted in the nearness of Jesus.
Episode Summary:In this message from Galatians 5, we continue the Fruit of the Spirit series by looking at joy. Pastor teaches that joy is not the same as happiness, because happiness depends on what is happening around us, while joy comes from Christ within us. Because Jesus lives in us, joy is already available, even when life brings pain, pressure, difficult people, or real problems. This episode reminds us to decide, desire, and determine to live from the joy Jesus has already placed inside us.Main Scripture:Galatians 5:22-23John 15:11James 1:2Psalm 23John 16:20-21Hebrews 12:2Philippians 4:4Zephaniah 3:17Big Idea:Because Jesus lives in us, joy is not something we chase; it is something we choose to live from.In This Episode:Joy is one flavor of the fruit of the Spirit, produced by the Holy Spirit and carried by believers.Jesus said His joy would be in us and that our joy would be complete, lacking nothing.Happiness depends on happenings, but joy depends on Christ and is not ruled by circumstances.Pain, people, pressure, and problems can become joy blinders that hide what Jesus has already given.We can decide, desire, and determine to be joyful before the next trial arrives.The joy of the Lord gives strength, perspective, and the ability to shake it off and step up when life throws dirt our way.Reflection Questions:Have I been living as though joy is already in me, or as though I am still waiting for it to arrive?Where have I confused happiness with joy by letting circumstances determine my spiritual condition?Which joy blinder has been most active in my life: pain, people, pressure, or problems?What decision about joy do I need to make now, before the next difficult moment comes?Where do I need to shake it off and step up instead of allowing circumstances to bury me?What would change this week if I lived from the joy of the Lord as my strength?Next Steps:Read Galatians 5:22-23 and John 15:11 this week, and declare, “I have joy because Jesus lives in me.”Decide now, in prayer, that you will choose joy before the next trial arrives.Rejoice in the Lord while you are in the middle of the situation, not only after it changes.Identify the joy blinder that has been hiding your joy, and stop letting it have the final say.Bring joy into your home or workplace this week by choosing to speak and act from the joy Jesus has given you.Practice laughing in it, shaking it off, and stepping up when life throws more dirt your way.Closing Line:Listen in, share it with someone who needs encouragement, and subscribe so you do not miss the next message in the series.
Philippians 4:1-9 - Rejoice! The Lord is Near | Series: Philippians, Summer of Joy | Justin Hornsby | Preached Jul 12, 2026 How can you experience peace when relationships are strained, anxiety feels overwhelming, or your thoughts won't slow down? In this message from Philippians 4:1-9, Worship Pastor Justin Hornsby continues our Summer of Joy series by reminding us that lasting joy and peace are found in one powerful truth: the Lord is near. The Apostle Paul encourages believers to stand firm in Christ by pursuing unity, choosing reconciliation over division, and extending gentleness to others. He also calls us to replace anxiety with prayer, bringing every concern to God with thankful hearts. While God never promises a life without difficulties, He does promise a peace that surpasses understanding and guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, Paul challenges us to intentionally focus our thoughts on whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and worthy of praise. What fills our minds shapes how we live. Whether you're facing uncertainty, worry, conflict, or simply longing for deeper joy, this message offers biblical encouragement and practical hope rooted in the nearness of Jesus.
It's tempting to read verses like "Rejoice in the Lord always" and "Do not be anxious about anything" and dismiss them out of hand. They're nice sentiments, we might think, but ultimately, they're simply out of touch with reality. But as Pastor J.D. reminds us in this week's message from Philippians 4, the Apostle Paul wasn't exactly living in the lap of luxury as he wrote these words. On the contrary, they carry more weight precisely because he had endured so much suffering. We, too, can rejoice always—not because our circumstances are always good, but because our God is.
https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260712dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Isaiah 55:6 God is Near Does something strike you as amazing in today’s Bible verse? What jumps out at me is the idea that the Lord is near us, that he allows himself to be found by us. After all, why should he? Why should he be near us? Why should he allow himself to be found by us? Just look at us! We’re angry, bitter, selfish. We’re lustful, greedy, rebellious. We fail to love God; we fail to love each other. Instead of loathing sin as we should, we find ourselves listening to the devil’s temptations, perhaps even desiring to give in to those temptations. We fail to see the value and importance of eternal matters and get far to focused on temporal matters. Shouldn’t God turn his back on us? Shouldn’t God banish us from his presence forever? Yes, he should! Instead, he stays near! In amazing grace, he even allows us to “find him” in his Word and in the sacraments. And when we find him, what do we discover? We discover that he loves us dearly and treats us with amazing compassion and boundless love. And so, call on him! Seek him! Rejoice in the fact that your God is near, near to you! Prayer: O Savior, continue to draw near to me, and no matter how I might struggle, continue to draw me near to you. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
White Sox are having an unbelievably GREAT weekend, White Sox listeners rejoice over this great weekend for them. full 2877 Sun, 12 Jul 2026 17:26:10 +0000 QtDhd6OTfYgIpjc8Lzsup1MK1m1XE0xH sports Hit & Run with Matt Spiegel sports White Sox are having an unbelievably GREAT weekend, White Sox listeners rejoice over this great weekend for them. Hit & Run is a Chicago baseball staple, airing Sundays at 9 a.m. on 670 The Score during the MLB season. 2024 © 2021 Audacy, Inc. Sports
Can you know with certainty that you are one of God's elect? Discover that the assurance of salvation rests in faith alone in Christ alone, not in works, perseverance, or human effort. Let Scripture speak for itself as you examine difficult passages in their proper context. Reject distorted views that cloud the simplicity of the gospel. Rejoice that all who trust in Christ are justified by grace and equipped to serve Him with confidence.
https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260712dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Isaiah 55:6 God is Near Does something strike you as amazing in today’s Bible verse? What jumps out at me is the idea that the Lord is near us, that he allows himself to be found by us. After all, why should he? Why should he be near us? Why should he allow himself to be found by us? Just look at us! We’re angry, bitter, selfish. We’re lustful, greedy, rebellious. We fail to love God; we fail to love each other. Instead of loathing sin as we should, we find ourselves listening to the devil’s temptations, perhaps even desiring to give in to those temptations. We fail to see the value and importance of eternal matters and get far to focused on temporal matters. Shouldn’t God turn his back on us? Shouldn’t God banish us from his presence forever? Yes, he should! Instead, he stays near! In amazing grace, he even allows us to “find him” in his Word and in the sacraments. And when we find him, what do we discover? We discover that he loves us dearly and treats us with amazing compassion and boundless love. And so, call on him! Seek him! Rejoice in the fact that your God is near, near to you! Prayer: O Savior, continue to draw near to me, and no matter how I might struggle, continue to draw me near to you. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
7.12.26 | Pastor Dane Olney
Why aren't people happy? Why do nations rage? The world is chasing temporary satisfacton.
Why aren't people happy? Why do nations rage? The world is chasing temporary satisfacton.
Rejoice in the righteousness, purity, goodness and holiness of Jesus Christ—all of which He has given to you. No matter what kind of day you've had, rest in hope and peace tonight as you draw near to the heart of God. This short, uplifting meditation from His Word will create a space at the end of the day for you to refocus on the goodness and nearness of the Lord, entrust your burdens to Him and fill your mind with His promises and faithfulness towards you. Tonight's meditation is read by Rebecca. Meet the team at odb.org/meet-the-team. These meditations are lovingly and prayerfully crafted by human writers, presenters and producers, with no AI-generated content. If you'd like to get in touch with us to share your story or let us know how we can make the Evening Meditations an even better experience, email our team at eveningmeditations@odbm.orgWe hope that you enjoy this Evening Meditation from Our Daily Bread Ministries! You can find more exciting content from Our Daily Bread Ministries by downloading the Our Daily Bread app or visiting us at: odbm.orgAll our funding comes from our listeners, like you, who value what we do and want to help us reach more people. Together, we can keep making our podcast freely accessible to all. You can make a donation towards our mission at eveningmeditations.org. ★ Support this podcast ★
Consequences Hosea 9-10 9 Rejoice not, O Israel! Exult not like the peoples; for you have played the whore, forsaking your God. You have loved a prostitute's wages on all threshing floors. 2 Threshing floor and wine vat shall not feed them, and the new wine shall fail them. 3 They shall not remain in the land of the LORD, but Ephraim shall return to Egypt, and they shall eat unclean food in Assyria. 4 They shall not pour drink offerings of wine to the LORD, and their sacrifices shall not please him. It shall be like mourners' bread to them; all who eat of it shall be defiled; for their bread shall be for their hunger only; it shall not come to the house of the LORD. 5 What will you do on the day of the appointed festival, and on the day of the feast of the LORD? 6 For behold, they are going away from destruction; but Egypt shall gather them; Memphis shall bury them. Nettles shall possess their precious things of silver; thorns shall be in their tents. 7 The days of punishment have come; the days of recompense have come; Israel shall know it. The prophet is a fool; the man of the spirit is mad, because of your great iniquity and great hatred. 8 The prophet is the watchman of Ephraim with my God; yet a fowler's snare is on all his ways, and hatred in the house of his God. 9 They have deeply corrupted themselves as in the days of Gibeah: he will remember their iniquity; he will punish their sins. 10 Like grapes in the wilderness, I found Israel. Like the first fruit on the fig tree in its first season, I saw your fathers. But they came to Baal-peor and consecrated themselves to the thing of shame, and became detestable like the thing they loved. 11 Ephraim's glory shall fly away like a bird— no birth, no pregnancy, no conception! 12 Even if they bring up children, I will bereave them till none is left. Woe to them when I depart from them! 13 Ephraim, as I have seen, was like a young palm planted in a meadow; but Ephraim must lead his children out to slaughter. 14 Give them, O LORD— what will you give? Give them a miscarrying womb and dry breasts. 15 Every evil of theirs is in Gilgal; there I began to hate them. Because of the wickedness of their deeds I will drive them out of my house. I will love them no more; all their princes are rebels. 16 Ephraim is stricken; their root is dried up; they shall bear no fruit. Even though they give birth, I will put their beloved children to death. 17 My God will reject them because they have not listened to him; they shall be wanderers among the nations. -- 10 Israel is a luxuriant vine that yields its fruit. The more his fruit increased, the more altars he built; as his country improved, he improved his pillars. 2 Their heart is false; now they must bear their guilt. The LORD will break down their altars and destroy their pillars. 3 For now they will say: “We have no king, for we do not fear the LORD; and a king—what could he do for us?” 4 They utter mere words; with empty oaths they make covenants; so judgment springs up like poisonous weeds in the furrows of the field. 5 The inhabitants of Samaria tremble for the calf of Beth-aven. Its people mourn for it, and so do its idolatrous priests— those who rejoiced over it and over its glory— for it has departed from them. 6 The thing itself shall be carried to Assyria as tribute to the great king. Ephraim shall be put to shame, and Israel shall be ashamed of his idol. 7 Samaria's king shall perish like a twig on the face of the waters. 8 The high places of Aven, the sin of Israel, shall be destroyed. Thorn and thistle shall grow up on their altars, and they shall say to the mountains, “Cover us,” and to the hills, “Fall on us.” 9 From the days of Gibeah, you have sinned, O Israel; there they have continued. Shall not the war against the unjust overtake them in Gibeah? 10 When I please, I will discipline them, and nations shall be gathered against them when they are bound up for their double iniquity. 11 Ephraim was a trained calf that loved to thresh, and I spared her fair neck; but I will put Ephraim to the yoke; Judah must plow; Jacob must harrow for himself. 12 Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love; break up your fallow ground, for it is the time to seek the LORD, that he may come and rain righteousness upon you. 13 You have plowed iniquity; you have reaped injustice; you have eaten the fruit of lies. Because you have trusted in your own way and in the multitude of your warriors, 14 therefore the tumult of war shall arise among your people, and all your fortresses shall be destroyed, as Shalman destroyed Beth-arbel on the day of battle; mothers were dashed in pieces with their children. 15 Thus it shall be done to you, O Bethel, because of your great evil. At dawn the king of Israel shall be utterly cut off.
God's redeemed remnant will rejoice over the God Who rejoices over them.
God's redeemed remnant will rejoice over the God Who rejoices over them.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Philippians 4:4Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rejoice over God's generosity and creative majesty visible in every corner of the world. No matter what kind of day you've had, rest in hope and peace tonight as you draw near to the heart of God. This short, uplifting meditation from His Word will create a space at the end of the day for you to refocus on the goodness and nearness of the Lord, entrust your burdens to Him and fill your mind with His promises and faithfulness towards you. Tonight's meditation is read by Lucy. Meet the team at odb.org/meet-the-team. These meditations are lovingly and prayerfully crafted by human writers, presenters and producers, with no AI-generated content. If you'd like to get in touch with us to share your story or let us know how we can make the Evening Meditations an even better experience, email our team at eveningmeditations@odbm.orgWe hope that you enjoy this Evening Meditation from Our Daily Bread Ministries! You can find more exciting content from Our Daily Bread Ministries by downloading the Our Daily Bread app or visiting us at: odbm.orgAll our funding comes from our listeners, like you, who value what we do and want to help us reach more people. Together, we can keep making our podcast freely accessible to all. You can make a donation towards our mission at eveningmeditations.org. ★ Support this podcast ★
Our hymn study this weekend is "Christ Is Our Corner-Stone" (TLH 465) which is an English translation of a Latin hymn from around 700AD. This hymn beautifully describes the nature of the salvation that Jesus has won for us, and, as a result of that salvation, the blessings that are ours now and in heaven. Psalm 118:19-25 serves as one of the foundation passages for this hymn: "Open to me the gates of righteousness; I will go through them, And I will praise the LORD. 20 This is the gate of the LORD, Through which the righteous shall enter. 21 I will praise You, For You have answered me, And have become my salvation. 22 The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone. 23 This was the LORD'S doing; It is marvelous in our eyes. 24 This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. 25 Save now, I pray, O LORD; O LORD, I pray, send now prosperity. 26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD! We have blessed you from the house of the LORD." It points to Jesus as the Cornerstone of the church and the only foundation of the church. It also describes the blessings we receive in church through the reception of the Means of Grace. Finally, it describes the joy of singing the praises of God in heaven. Rejoice in the blessings that God imparts to you and for you at His house! Thanks be to God!
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Rejoice! The Iran war is over!...or is it? Today James talks to Trita Parsi, the co-founder and Executive Vice President of The Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, about his recent reporting on why Iran believes Israel will attack again before October. We also discuss the emerging new Middle Eastern order and whether Israel can be brought into the fold or if an anti-Abraham Accord pact will define the new status quo. As a bonus, James asks Trita about reports that the State Department is trying to have him deported.
Rejoice! The Iran war is over!...or is it? Today James talks to Trita Parsi, the co-founder and Executive Vice President of The Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, about his recent reporting on why Iran believes Israel will attack again before October. We also discuss the emerging new Middle Eastern order and whether Israel can be brought into the fold or if an anti-Abraham Accord pact will define the new status quo. As a bonus, James asks Trita about reports that the State Department is trying to have him deported.