Podcasts about scripture god

880 Worship God In Spirit and Truth, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 4:24-26 with the Recenter With Christ app The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in  and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.  Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.  You can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tense or unrelaxing.  If you feel comfortable doing so, I invite you to close your eyes.   Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:   Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate,  deflate. Scripture for Meditation John 4 NET 24 God is spirit, and the people who worship him must worship in spirit and truth." 25 The woman said to him, "I know that Messiah is coming" (the one called Christ); "whenever he comes, he will tell us everything." 26 Jesus said to her, "I, the one speaking to you, am he." ESV 24 God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth." 25 The woman said to him, "I know that Messiah is coming (he who is called Christ). When he comes, he will tell us all things." 26 Jesus said to her, "I who speak to you am he." Reflection on Scripture: God wants us to worship him in spirit. Not just in spirit but in truth. The truth of Jesus, and that he is the Christ, the anointed chosen one who delivers us. In true worship our heart is turned toward God. Turned toward the true glory of God. The woman at the well expected a Messiah. Based on prophecy and cultural tradition. She had an awareness about the most important prophecy of the old testament. The one pointing to Jesus, who she did not know. She had no way of knowing the full impact of that prophecy.  You do. You have an awareness of the truth that Jesus was talking about here. When he finally revealed himself to the woman, she believed. In this meditation your primary focus should be to worship God in spirit and truth. Yes, calming breathing feels good. Brain training to learn to be more relaxed is helpful. Ultimately though the thing that will change, not only your life, but your eternal future, is an awareness of the salvation of God. Not only that but this fact is the most profound form of mental health I could imagine.  You live in a universe where there is a Messiah, a Christ, the God of heaven, capable of creation of the universe and unending destruction. He did not create you, to damn you. He created you to offer you eternal life. God knows your flaws and weaknesses. He knows the worst parts of you and still has chosen to love you. Is there anything to fear or worry about when the God of heaven has chosen to love you with the most profound love. Jesus who is revealed in this scripture is He. Now worship him in spirit and truth. Pour our a heart of gratitude to the one who loves you with a perfect love as only a heavenly father can .  Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life: This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?  FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod

The Miracle That Left Doctors Speechless | A PowerfulTestimony of God's FaithfulnessWhat do you do when a phone call changes everything?This week on the Elevate The Day Podcast, we welcome Rev.Errin Cody Hankins for a moving conversation about the miraculous healing of her son after a life-threatening allergic reaction.As doctors fought to save his life, Errin chose faith over fear. Through prayer, God's promises, and the support of a praying community, what seemed impossible became a powerful testimony of God's miraculous intervention.In this episode you'll discover:• How to stand on God's promises during a crisis• Why preparing your faith before the storm matters• The power of prayer and Christian community• How God still performs miracles today• Encouragement for anyone facing impossible circumstancesIf you're walking through fear, uncertainty, or a difficultseason, this testimony will remind you that God is still faithful and still working miracles.Subscribe to Elevate The Day for weekly encouragement,biblical teaching, and inspiring stories that strengthen your faith.Scripture: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." — Psalm 46:1 (NKJV)

878 We Know What We Worship, A Guided Christian Meditation on John 4:20-23 with the Recenter With Christ app The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in  and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.  Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.  You can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tense or unrelaxing.  If you feel comfortable doing so, I invite you to close your eyes.   Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:   Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate,  deflate. Scripture for Meditation John 4 NABRE 19 The woman said to him, "Sir, I can see that you are a prophet. 20 Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain; but you people say that the place to worship is in Jerusalem." 21 Jesus said to her, "Believe me, woman, the hour is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. 22 You people worship what you do not understand; we worship what we understand, because salvation is from the Jews. 23 But the hour is coming, and is now here, when true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and truth; and indeed the Father seeks such people to worship him. NASB 19 The woman *said to Him, "Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet. 20 Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, and yet you Jews say that in Jerusalem is the place where one must worship." 21 Jesus *said to her, "Believe Me, woman, that a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. 22 You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, because salvation is from the Jews. 23 But a time is coming, and even now has arrived, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. Reflection on Scripture: God has chosen you as one of His worshipers. Jesus taught the true worship. It is to know God the Father and Jesus Christ. When Jesus said Salvation is from the Jews, that is not because the Jews had the capacity to create something that would save them. It meant that God had chosen His people, and Jesus was born of that lineage. Salvation is not man made. Salvation is not found on a mountain, and although the Temple was directed by God, the temple did not generate salvation. Salvation has always come from God alone. From time to time, God has asked us to do things and yet our salvation has never come from those things that God asked us. It comes from living in unison with God's spirit. Even according to the much harsher law of Moses, redemption was found by seeking it from God alone, through the means God commanded.  We live according to what Jesus said here. To worship God in spirit. If we do worship incorrectly we can get caught up in the physical details. Perhaps even intellectual elements of worship. Worship should be done in spirit. Even when I use the word worship, perhaps some consider only music. Although music is a valuable means of connecting with, and experiencing the still small voice of the Spirit, it is not the whole definition of the meaning of Worship.  We should seek to venerate and worship God in every way. Every action, every drink of water can be worship to God if done in the right spirit. On this day I invite you to make every thought and action an act of worship to the Lord our God.  Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life: This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?  FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod

What a joy it was to welcome so many kids to our VBS this week! As they built, crafted, and explored together, they discovered an even greater truth from Ephesians 2:10—that each one of us has been intentionally crafted by Christ for His purposes. Throughout the week, they learned the story of Scripture: God created us to be with Him, sin separated us from Him, we could never fix that separation on our own, but Jesus came to do what we never could by dying and rising again to restore us to God. - Pastor Ben Key Verse: Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) - "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." For this week's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49627413

In this Scripture God calls His people to stand in the ways, ask for the old paths, and walk in the good way where there is rest for the soul. When Christians abandon the tried and proven ways of worship, preaching, music, reverence, and separation from the world, they seldom return, and their children are carried even farther away from the truth. True worship must be acceptable to God, rooted in spirit and truth, and separated from the sensual, worldly, and profane influences that appeal to the flesh rather than honor the Lord. Therefore, we must consider the true cost of leaving the old paths, hold fast to what has been delivered to us, and preserve for the next generation a reverent, holy, Bible-centered way that pleases God.

To say “I stand with the Jews” is not to deny Israel's present unbelief, excuse every decision made by the modern state, or pretend that the Jewish people are righteous apart from Jesus Christ. It is to recognize the unmistakable testimony of Scripture: God made everlasting promises to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, preserved their descendants through centuries of dispersion and persecution, and has not cast away His people. The same Bible that reveals Israel's rebellion also reveals Israel's future restoration. Therefore, the Christian who stands with the Jews is not endorsing sin; he is refusing to join the nations in despising a people whom God still calls “beloved for the fathers' sakes.” We can preach the gospel to the Jew, oppose unbelief and still reject the hatred, mockery and violence that have followed them across the centuries. Christian, I stand with the Jews according to God's word. Where do you stand?“As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes.” Romans 11:28 (KJB)Standing with the Jews may place a Christian in an uncomfortable position, especially when both secular culture and parts of the professing Church turn against Israel. But faithfulness has never been measured by popularity. The prophets warned that the nations would gather against Jerusalem, while the apostles warned Gentile believers not to boast against the natural branches. Our duty is clear: pray for the peace of Jerusalem, defend the Jewish people against hatred, preach Jesus Christ as their true Messiah and trust God to fulfill every promise He made to them. Israel may be rebellious today, but God is not finished with Israel—and the Christian who believes the Bible should be willing to stand where God's Word stands, even when that position is misunderstood or hated.

Genesis 38 is one of the most uncomfortable chapters in the Bible, filled with moral failure, broken promises, and desperate choices. Yet buried inside this difficult passage is one of the most encouraging truths in Scripture: God accomplishes His plans through broken, imperfect people. Judah walked away from God's people, made compromises, and raised sons who amplified his own failures. Tamar was wronged by every man in her life and took desperate measures to secure her future. When Judah's hidden sin was finally exposed, he owned it, and something in him changed. Ten generations later, through the line of Judah and Tamar, Jesus Christ entered the world. God does not require a clean record. He requires a repentant heart.

King Saul was hunting David, determined to kill the man God had anointed to take his place. Then, in a moment that seemed perfectly arranged for revenge, Saul entered the very cave where David and his men were hiding. David had the opportunity to end his suffering—but instead of killing Saul, he cut off a corner of Saul's robe and spared his life. In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef points to David's restraint as a powerful example of faith in God's justice. David could have justified vengeance, especially after years of running for his life while Saul remained safe in the palace. But David knew a Truth declared throughout Scripture: God is the righteous Judge. Psalm 37 reveals David's hard-won confidence. Though the wicked may appear successful for a season, their triumph is temporary. God sees every injustice, every plot, every cruelty, and every hidden motive—and He will make all things right in His time. When you are mistreated, overlooked, or tempted to envy the temporary success of the wicked, don't lose heart. Keep calm. Look up. Your heavenly Father is sovereign, and the meek will inherit His promised peace. Prayer: Lord, may I be filled with compassion and also find comfort in the promise that evil will receive Your righteous judgment. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.  “A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found. But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity” (Psalm 37:10-11). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon God Has the Answer to Every Problem You Face, Stay Calm and Look Up:LISTEN NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

What if the end times aren't something to fear—but something to look forward to? This teaching on biblical prophecy (1 Thessalonians 4; 2 Corinthians 12) reframes the rapture not as terror, but as a glorious homecoming—a wedding celebration for the Church. It emphasizes rightly dividing Scripture: God deals distinctly with Israel, the Gentiles, and the Church, and understanding that identity changes how we read prophecy. Biblical examples like Philip's supernatural transport and Paul's “third heaven” show that God can move people beyond normal space and time. The core message is simple: the resurrection follows Christ's pattern, the dead in Christ will rise, and believers will be transformed. This isn't about fear or date-setting. It's about hope, urgency, and faithfulness—living with eternity in view and loving His appearing.

Why did God send His Son into the world? What was His ultimate purpose in such a costly act of love? In this message from 1 John 4:7–12, we explore one of the most profound truths in Scripture: God is love. More than an emotion, biblical love is goodness in action, God continually working for the benefit of His creation. This sermon reveals that God's love reaches its intended purpose when it flows through His people to others. As believers receive Christ's love and express it through acts of selfless service, God's love is "made complete" in the world. Discover what it means to be born of God, to know God personally, and to become a living expression of His love to those around you. Support the show

Before you ever see the miracle, there is usually one simple instruction from God: GO.In this powerful message, Pastor Eric unpacks how throughout Scripture God has always been a sending God. From Abraham leaving everything familiar, to Moses leading Israel through the Red Sea, to the blind man walking to the Pool of Siloam, every breakthrough began with a step of obedience.Too often we delay God's purpose with excuses disguised as wisdom. "Let me first..." becomes the language of hesitation, while faith calls us to move even before we understand. God's commands were never meant to become suggestions—they were invitations to trust Him.Discover five powerful truths that propel every believer forward:• Grace says GO — Your past no longer has permission to keep you parked.• Presence says GO — God's presence is what sets you apart and gives you rest along the journey.• Faith says GO — Real faith doesn't sit still; it moves while trusting God to fight the battle.• Obedience says GO — Many miracles don't happen before obedience—they happen because of it.• Power says GO — You weren't saved simply to sit. You've been empowered by the Holy Spirit to go and tell others about Jesus.Whether you've been waiting on the perfect moment, held back by fear, or believing you need to have everything figured out before taking your next step, this message will remind you that God's direction often comes one step at a time.The question isn't whether God is calling.The question is: Will you GO?

In Scripture God uses elements of nature to reveal certain aspects about His nature and His Person. We see many examples in Scripture: God is a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29), like the wind (John 3:8), like the river (John 7:37-39), etc. One interesting element in nature that God uses to reveal aspects of Himself is lightning. Lightning is one of the Bible's symbols of the immediate manifestation of God's glory, holiness, power, authority, judgment, revelation, victory, and supernatural activity. It communicates that heaven is breaking into the earthly realm with irresistible power. In this sermon we review the significance and comparisons of lightning when used in Scripture to speak of various aspects of God and heavenly beings. The Lightnings of God represent: God's glory, the Suddenness of His working, the Power, the Holiness, His Revelation and His deliverance. God doesn't just have lightning; lightning issues from His presence, His throne, or His hand. He is the Source. When God acts, heaven's power is manifested with brilliance, authority, and unstoppable effect. Watch our online Sunday Church service live stream every Sunday at 10:30am (Indian Time, GMT+5:30). Spirit filled, anointed worship, Word and ministry for healing, miracles and deliverance. YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/allpeopleschurchbangalore WEBSITE: https://apcwo.org/live CHURCH: https://apcwo.org FREE SERMONS: https://apcwo.org/resources/sermons FREE BOOKS: https://apcwo.org/books/english DAILY DEVOTIONALS: https://apcwo.org/resources/daily-devotional JESUS CHRIST: https://examiningjesus.com BIBLE COLLEGE: https://apcbiblecollege.org E-LEARNING: https://apcbiblecollege.org/elearn COUNSELING: https://chrysalislife.org MUSIC: https://apcmusic.org MINISTERS FELLOWSHIP: https://pamfi.org CHURCH APP: https://apcwo.org/app CHURCHES: https://apcwo.org/ministries/churches

Have you ever wondered if you'll make it to the end? Maybe you've stumbled. Maybe you've struggled with doubt, temptation, or seasons of spiritual dryness. And in those moments, a nagging question creeps in: What if I can't hold on? What if I fall away? This episode is for you. We're diving into one of the most comforting truths in Scripture - God keeps His own. Not because we're strong enough, not because we're consistent enough, but because He is faithful. The truth is, we're not holding onto God - He's holding onto us. And He never lets go. So take heart, weary saint. Your salvation doesn't depend on your grip. It rests in His.Read more: https://kuzaapp.com/does-god-keep-me-in-salvation/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kuzaappInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kuzaappTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kuzaappBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/kuza--3674993/support.

The Deal Is Still OnLife doesn't always go according to plan. Prayers seem unanswered. Dreams get delayed. Disappointments pile up. And sometimes we're left wondering if God has forgotten us.In this message, Pastor Randy explores one of the most encouraging truths in Scripture: God's faithfulness does not depend on our circumstances. Through the stories of Jeremiah and Abraham, we'll discover that even when life feels uncertain, God remains faithful to His promises.If you've ever asked, "God, where are You?" or wondered if the promise is still alive, this message is for you.The deal is still on.Scripture References: Lamentations 3:17-23, Genesis 12, Genesis 15:1-5, 2 Timothy 2:13

What does the Bible actually say about politics, and how should Christians engage public life in an age of division and polarization? In this inaugural episode of Reimagining Biblical Politics, biblical scholar Michael Rhodes joins co-host Marshall Teague to explore the foundational claim at the heart of Scripture: God reigns. Rather than offering partisan talking points or commentary on current political controversies, Rhodes argues that the Bible presents a rich and often-overlooked vision of political discipleship rooted in the kingdom of God. Drawing from his experiences living and serving in economically marginalized communities in Memphis, Nairobi, and Auckland, Rhodes explains how questions of justice, poverty, public life, and community inevitably led him to reconsider the relationship between faith and politics. The conversation introduces key themes from his book, Reimagining Biblical Politics, including the distinction between "outpost politics"—how God's people live together as citizens of God's kingdom—and "pilgrim politics"—how Christians engage the broader society around them. Listeners will discover why the language of kingdom, gospel, peace, and savior was deeply political in the biblical world, why Scripture offers far more than a few isolated verses on government, and how a renewed understanding of biblical politics can help Christians faithfully navigate public life today. Listen to more of Reimagining Biblical Politics (Click Here) We are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/give For more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/ Social Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthought Threads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthought X: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThought Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.org    

Have you ever found yourself somewhere you never planned to be and wondered, "How did I get here?" This week on Continuing the Conversation, Craig Smith and Abbey Davis dive deeper into the story of Jacob's famous dream and explore one of the most powerful themes in Scripture: God's grace comes to us long before we deserve it. As Jacob runs from the consequences of his own choices, God meets him in an unexpected place with an unexpected promise. Craig and Abby unpack the meaning behind Jacob's ladder, why grace is always God-initiated, and what it means to trust God's direction when life feels uncertain. In this episode, you'll discover: What Jacob's ladder actually represents Why Christianity is different from every other "stairway to heaven" How God's grace reaches us before we reach Him The subtle ways selfishness blocks our relationship with God Why Christians often struggle to celebrate grace in other people How spiritual growth changes the way we see others If you've ever wrestled with disappointment, consequences, comparison, or wondering where God is leading you, this conversation offers hope, perspective, and practical encouragement.

In Jude's closing benediction, we're given one of the most stabilizing promises in all of Scripture: God is able to keep you from stumbling (Jude 1:24). In this episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef explains why saving faith is not only God's gift—but also God's sustaining work. You are not kept by fear-driven performance; you are kept by Christ's faithful power. Dr. Youssef brings this promise to life through the imagery behind Jude's words: Jewish wedding traditions. In betrothal, the groom would seal the commitment with a costly dowry—then return home to prepare a place—then come again for his bride with joyful announcement. In the same way, Jesus—our Bridegroom—paid the highest price with His own blood, returned to the Father to prepare a place, and will come again. And when He does, He will present His redeemed bride without blemish or stain, declaring what His cross and resurrection accomplished. This devotional strengthens believers living in dark seasons of apostasy and pressure: keep your eyes on the future Christ secured. When you feel weak, unstable, or tempted to spiral into “trying harder,” remember the Truth—Jesus is holding you up. He will keep you from falling. Prayer: Father, help me to rest in the Truth that You will never let me go. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.  “[T]o the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen” (Jude 1:25). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon series Contend for the Faith: WATCH NOW|LISTEN NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

In this week's fellowship, we reflected on Yeshua's words in Matthew 6:19–34 and the call to "seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness," from our Zoom call - this is just the short message at the beginning of the call, if you want more, come join us each week on the live call. Every one of us is building something with our lives, whether family, ministry, business, career, or financial security, but the real question is what we are building around. Yeshua challenges us to place the Kingdom above every other pursuit, reminding us that life is not ultimately about accumulating earthly treasures or securing our future through our own efforts. Instead, we are called to live with an eternal perspective, trusting our Heavenly Father who knows our needs and faithfully provides for His children. As we looked at the examples of Abraham, Moses, the disciples, and the Apostle Paul, we saw a consistent pattern throughout Scripture: God reveals calling before details, purpose before plans, and assignment before strategy. Too often, we seek certainty before obedience, but faith requires us to trust Yehovah even when we cannot see the full path ahead. The challenge before each of us is simple yet profound: before asking what is safest, most profitable, or most comfortable, we must first ask, "What is Yehovah saying?" When the Kingdom remains our highest priority, every other area of life finds its proper alignment, and we discover the joy of walking in the purposes of God.

864 They Will Heed Your Voice, A Guided Christian Meditation on Exodus 3:16-19 with the Recenter With Christ app The purpose of this podcast is to help you find more peace in  and connect with the true source of peace, Jesus Christ.  Outline: Relaxation, Reading, Meditation, Prayer, Contemplation and Visualization.  You can sit comfortably and uninterrupted for about 20 minutes.You should hopefully not be driving or anything tense or unrelaxing.  If you feel comfortable to do so, I invite you to close your eyes.   Guided Relaxation / Guided Meditation:   Breathe and direct your thoughts to connecting with God. Let your stomach be a balloon inflate,  deflate. Scripture for Meditation Exodus 3 NKJV 16 Go and gather the elders of Israel together, and say to them, 'The Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, appeared to me, saying, "I have surely visited you and seen what is done to you in Egypt; 17 and I have said I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt to the land of the Canaanites and the Hittites and the Amorites and the Perizzites and the Hivites and the Jebusites, to a land flowing with milk and honey." ' 18 Then they will heed your voice; and you shall come, you and the elders of Israel, to the king of Egypt; and you shall say to him, 'The Lord God of the Hebrews has met with us; and now, please, let us go three days' journey into the wilderness, that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God.' 19 But I am sure that the king of Egypt will not let you go, no, not even by a mighty hand. 2 RSV 16 Go and gather the elders of Israel together, and say to them, 'The Lord, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, has appeared to me, saying, "I have observed you and what has been done to you in Egypt; 17 and I promise that I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt, to the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Per′izzites, the Hivites, and the Jeb′usites, a land flowing with milk and honey."' 18 And they will hearken to your voice; and you and the elders of Israel shall go to the king of Egypt and say to him, 'The Lord, the God of the Hebrews, has met with us; and now, we pray you, let us go a three days' journey into the wilderness, that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God.' 19 I know that the king of Egypt will not let you go unless compelled by a mighty hand. Reflection on Scripture: God called Moses to listen to the voice of a burning bush in the wilderness and from the beginning God told him that the people would accept him and that the Pharaoh would not. God knew with precision what would be required to deliver His people from bondage and He told Moses all about it. This was an unknown blessing. Moses did not understand the blessing that he was given. He was given the answer for how it would pan out. Many times in our lives we take steps into what seems to be darkness to our eyes. There have been many times in my life and my ministry where I feel I have gotten only a small partial direction without any indication of what would happen. In fact my whole journey to become a Chaplain took me a total of 8 years and I had no assurance that my path would end in success as it has.  Invariably I suspect for most things God directs us to do we will not get clear direction on the outcome. DIcernment in and of itself is a valuable thing. After we are reasonably assured we have been given a direction the battle is not over. We have to just roger up and do the best we can and stay open to further guidance God gives us along the way. Moses was told the people would listen and that Pharaoh would only respond when compelled but many times Moses didn't know what was coming next.  God invites us into a relationship of trust. He had no such relationship with king of Epypt. So in this situation although it would be very challenging to be Moses, it would be far worse to be the king who opposed him, who opposed God. So the invitation stands to each of us. Do we respond to the call of the Lord or do we choose what our human passions desire? Do we bravely wade into the deep waters, sustained by a God of wonders or do we cower in fear hiding from the Lord? I know what I want that answer to be for me, what is left is actually doing it.  Meditation of Prayer: Pray as directed by the Spirit. Dedicate these moments to the patient waiting, when you feel ready ask God for understanding you desire from Him. Meditation of God and His Glory / Hesychasm: I invite you to sit in silence feeling patient for your own faults and trials. Summarize what insights you have gained during this meditation and meditate and visualize positive change in your life: This is a listener funded podcast at patreon.com/christianmeditationpodcast Final Question: If you consider the invitation and command to persevere in the faith, what change in your life does that bring to your mind?  FIND ME ON: Download my free app: Recenter with Christ Website - ChristianMeditationPodcast.com Voicemail - (602) 888-3795 Email: jared@christianmeditationpodcast.com Apple Podcasts - Christian Meditation Podcast Facebook.com/christianmeditationpodcast Youtube.com/christianmeditaitonpodcast Twitter - @ChristianMedPod

This powerful exploration of Pentecost takes us beyond viewing it as merely a historical event or the church's birthday, revealing it as the fulfillment of God's eternal promise to dwell among His people. We're challenged to examine salvation not through the lens of our feelings or cultural interpretations, but through the unchanging Word of God. The message walks us through the biblical commands for salvation: genuine repentance that destroys our past and prevents us from returning to it, baptism in Jesus' name for the remission of sins—not just forgiveness, but complete removal of the stain—and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit with the initial evidence of speaking in tongues. What's particularly compelling is the analogy of fire throughout Scripture: God signified His presence in the tabernacle with fire, in Solomon's temple with fire, and on the Day of Pentecost with tongues of fire resting on each believer. This wasn't random—it was God declaring that He no longer wanted to dwell in tents or buildings, but in us. We're reminded that speaking in tongues isn't the Holy Ghost itself, but rather the sign—like the rolled-away stone at Jesus' tomb—that something supernatural has happened inside us. This gives us unshakeable confidence when doubt whispers that our experience wasn't real. The challenge before us is clear: are we willing to set aside our opinions, our feelings, and even our family traditions to embrace what the Word actually teaches about salvation?

What if God told a prophet to marry a prostitute so an entire nation could see how badly it had betrayed him? Summary The book of Hosea opens with one of the most shocking commands in Scripture—God tells the prophet to marry an unfaithful woman so his broken marriage will become a living message to Israel. Beneath a season of prosperity during the reign of Jeroboam II, the nation had slowly drifted from the God who rescued them, blending worship of the Lord with the idols of their culture. Through Hosea's family and the prophetic names of his children, God exposes Israel's spiritual adultery and warns that judgment is coming. Yet even in the midst of confrontation, the chapter ends with hope, revealing the heart of a faithful God who continues to pursue and restore his people. Reflection & Small Group Discussion Questions 1. Why do you think God chose Hosea's marriage to illustrate Israel's relationship with him? 2. What does the story of Hosea and Gomer reveal about the seriousness of spiritual adultery? 3. How did prosperity during Jeroboam II's reign contribute to Israel's spiritual drift? 4. Why is mixing the worship of God with cultural idols so spiritually dangerous? 5. What message was God communicating through the names Jezreel, Lo-Ruhamah, and Lo-Ammi? 6. How can prosperity sometimes create the illusion that everything is spiritually healthy? 7. What are some modern idols that people look to for provision, identity, or security instead of God? 8. Why does Hosea describe idolatry as relational betrayal rather than simply breaking religious rules? 9. What does Hosea 1:10 reveal about God's heart even after announcing judgment? 10. Where in your life might God be calling you to turn away from competing loyalties and return fully to him?

We live in a world that has made perfection into a pursuit — and most of us are exhausted from chasing it. The pressure to appear finished, polished, and put-together follows us into our relationships, our work, our faith, and even the way we see ourselves in the mirror. But what if the imperfections we are trying so hard to hide are not the problem? What if they are actually part of the masterpiece? Isaiah 64:8 offers one of the most tender images in all of Scripture: God as the Potter, and us as the clay — works in progress, continually being shaped and molded in His hands. Clay that has been through the fire cannot go back to what it was before. But even broken ceramics can be worked into something beautiful — strengthened, remade, transformed into a mosaic that tells a richer story than a flawless surface ever could. God does not stand over our imperfections in disappointment. He is the One who uses every shattered place, covers every crack with His grace, and works all things — yes, all things — for good. The call to "be perfect" in Matthew 5:48 is not a demand that we arrive; it is an invitation to mature in love, to be sanctified and shaped by His hands over a lifetime. We are not finished yet. And that is not a failure — it is the whole point. Lean into the work of His hands, and let what you thought was your flaw become the very place His light shines through. Today's Bible Verse "Yet you, LORD, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand." — Isaiah 64:8 Ponder Today We are not finished products — we are works in progress in the hands of a master Potter who knows exactly what He is shaping us into and why every stage of the process is necessary. Even broken pieces are never wasted in God's hands — just as shattered ceramics can be worked into beautiful mosaics, every shattered place in our lives can be remade into something purposeful and good. The pursuit of perfection can become a subtle way of pushing God out of the picture — pretending we are finished and have it all together leaves no room for the Potter to keep working. Our imperfections, when shared honestly, grow compassion and community — what we are most tempted to hide is often the very thing that connects us most deeply to others. The call to "be perfect" in Matthew 5:48 is not a demand to arrive but an invitation to mature — to allow God to sanctify us in His hands and in His timing, covered all the way by His grace. Today's Prayer Lord, I am ready to admit imperfection. I am tired of striving toward a moving target and pretending I have it all together. Help me not to see my imperfections as setbacks, but as windows through which Your light shines most clearly. Help me accept my intricate pattern and trust You to make and perfect me the way You desire, in Your time and by Your grace. Show me the beauty of brokenness, and teach me that not having it all together makes me a vessel for Your grace — not a disappointment, but a work still in Your hands. In Jesus' name, Amen. Enjoy Today's Prayer? If this episode encouraged you, we'd love to stay connected! Subscribe to the LifeAudio newsletter at LifeAudio.com for daily prayers, devotionals, and faith-filled content delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss an episode — subscribe and share with someone who needs encouragement today. If you like this podcast, be sure to check out our sister podcast, Your Nightly Prayer - an evening Christian prayer podcast to help you end your day in conversation with God. https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Can you think of a prayer God didn't answer the way you wanted — one that left you confused, disappointed, maybe even questioning whether He was listening at all? And can you look back on it now and see what you couldn't see then? The relationship that would have hurt you. The door that stayed closed because what was behind it wasn't what you thought. The delay that felt like abandonment but was actually preparation. What once felt like God ignoring you now looks unmistakably like God protecting you. Isaiah 55:8-9 holds one of the most quietly liberating truths in all of Scripture: God's thoughts are not our thoughts, and His ways are infinitely higher than ours. That gap between what we ask for and what He gives is not a sign of His indifference — it is the evidence of His wisdom. He is not answering our prayers based on what feels good right now. He is answering based on the full picture of our lives, including the parts we cannot yet see. A closed door is not a forgotten prayer. A delayed answer is not a dismissed one. And a "no" from a God who loves us completely is one of the most profound forms of grace we will ever receive — even if it takes years to recognize it as such. Today is an invitation to look back with gratitude, and to let what God has already done in the past deepen your trust in what He is doing right now. Interested in creating something new with us? Take Our Newsletter Survey! Today's Bible Verse "'For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,' declares the LORD. 'As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.'" — Isaiah 55:8-9, NIV Ponder Today What once felt like God ignoring us often looks, in hindsight, like God protecting us — the perspective of time has a way of revealing His wisdom in ways we simply could not see in the moment. God's "no" is not a sign that He wasn't listening — it is evidence that He was, and that He cared enough to answer based on what was truly best rather than what we thought we wanted. God answers our prayers based on the full picture of our lives, not just the immediate moment — His timing is not slow, it is precise, and His pace is always set by love. Gratitude has the power to transform confusion into trust — when we thank God for the prayers He didn't answer the way we hoped, we are released from regret and invited into deeper faith. Closed doors and delayed answers are not punishments — they are forms of grace, keeping us from situations we didn't know were dangerous and preparing us for what is truly good. Today's Prayer Dear God, thank You for the prayers You didn't answer the way or when I wanted You to. I can see now that Your wisdom was protecting me when I couldn't protect myself — You knew what I didn't, and You loved me enough to say no. I am letting go of my regrets and releasing the confusion I have carried. Help me trust that Your higher thoughts and higher ways always lead to what is truly best for me. Teach me to let go of what is not good for me, and give me the confidence that I am not missing out because You are always working for my good. Thank You for loving me so wisely. I love You, God. Amen. Enjoy Today's Prayer? If this episode encouraged you, we'd love to stay connected! Subscribe to the LifeAudio newsletter at LifeAudio.com for daily prayers, devotionals, and faith-filled content delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss an episode — subscribe and share with someone who needs encouragement today. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Joshua 2:1-24; 6:17, 22-23 reveal one of the most powerful yet often overlooked truths in Scripture: God often works through unseen faithfulness.   Rahab was not a king, prophet, warrior, or priest. She was an unlikely woman living in a pagan city under judgment. Yet through quiet courage, hidden obedience, and sacrificial faith, God used her to preserve His people and place her in the lineage of the Messiah.   This message explores The Power of Unseen Faithfulness through the life of Rahab and the scarlet thread of redemption woven throughout Scripture. The world celebrates fame, power, and visibility, but Heaven honors faithfulness.   Most believers will never stand on a public stage or lead armies into battle. Instead, faithfulness is lived out quietly in homes, workplaces, prayer closets, hospital rooms, classrooms, and churches through consistent obedience when no one is watching. Rahab teaches us that hidden acts of faith can carry eternal consequences.   In this sermon: • Rahab's courageous faith in the midst of fear • The meaning of the scarlet cord and its connection to redemption • Why God delights in using unlikely people • The eternal value of ordinary obedience • How unseen service advances God's kingdom • Why faithfulness matters more than recognition • The hidden heroes Heaven celebrates   This message will encourage mothers, fathers, servants, workers, caregivers, and every believer who has ever wondered if their quiet obedience matters to God.

Joshua 2:1-24; 6:17, 22-23 reveal one of the most powerful yet often overlooked truths in Scripture: God often works through unseen faithfulness. Rahab was not a king, prophet, warrior, or priest. She was an unlikely woman living in a pagan city under judgment. Yet through quiet courage, hidden obedience, and sacrificial faith, God used her to preserve His people and place her in the lineage of the Messiah. This message explores The Power of Unseen Faithfulness through the life of Rahab and the scarlet thread of redemption woven throughout Scripture. The world celebrates fame, power, and visibility, but Heaven honors faithfulness. Most believers will never stand on a public stage or lead armies into battle. Instead, faithfulness is lived out quietly in homes, workplaces, prayer closets, hospital rooms, classrooms, and churches through consistent obedience when no one is watching. Rahab teaches us that hidden acts of faith can carry eternal consequences. In this sermon: • Rahab's courageous faith in the midst of fear • The meaning of the scarlet cord and its connection to redemption • Why God delights in using unlikely people • The eternal value of ordinary obedience • How unseen service advances God's kingdom • Why faithfulness matters more than recognition • The hidden heroes Heaven celebrates This message will encourage mothers, fathers, servants, workers, caregivers, and every believer who has ever wondered if their quiet obedience matters to God.

Firmly Established in Apostolic Truth 2 Peter 1:12-21 Ken Wilson Firmly Established in Apostolic Truth(2 Peter 1:12-21)For the bulletin in PDF form, click here. Message SlidesIntroduction to 2 Peter - Jim SamraThe Ministry of Peter - SwindollThe Message of 2 Peter - SwindollIntroduction to 2 Peter - Donald GuthrieThe Opponents in 2 Peter - Gene GreenDrinking from the Purest Source - SwindollBibliology Chart - WilsonIntroduction: ὑπομιμνῄσκω - The Importance of Reminders (1:12,13)Purpose(A Ready Reminder of Timeless Truth)• Pastoral Reminder: The foundation of truth must be constantly set (1:12).• A Matter of Life & Death: The priority of the truth is paramount (1:13-14).• The Proof is in the Praxis: What is true is also “The Truth” (1:15).Witness(The Truth of the Transfiguration)• Testimony: The truth is based on firsthand eyewitness testimony (1:16).• Validation: The approval of the Son came verbally from the Father (1:17).• Confirmation: Peter, James, and John heard God with their own ears (1:18).Basis(The Word of God through Prophetic Voices)• Revelation: Keep your attention on God's revelation in Scripture (1:19).• Interpretation: Understand the Scripture in context and community (1:20).• Inspiration: Scripture comes by God's control of the human authors (1:21).The believer's understanding of the transforming truth of the gospelis based on God's revelation in the inspired Scriptureand the verified testimony of firsthand witnessesduring the earthly life of Jesus.Cling to the truth with firm and life-changing confidence.“The Truth about Truth”(1 Peter 1:1-2)Revelation demands a response.There is a big difference between “truth” and “The Truth.”When you refer to something as “true” in the Christian faith, not onlydo you mean that it is true; you mean that it is binding on you. Allen Ross“The Inspiration of Scripture ”(2 Timothy 3:16-17)πᾶσα γραφὴ θεόπνευστος καὶ ὠφέλιμος,all scripture [is] God breathed and profitable,πρὸς διδασκαλίαν, πρὸς ἐλεγμόν,for teaching, for reproofπρὸς ἐπανόρθωσιν, πρὸς παιδείαν τὴν ἐν δικαιοσύνῃfor correction, for training in righteousnessἵνα ἄρτιος ᾖ ὁ τοῦ θεοῦ ἄνθρωπος,in order that complete may be the of God man,πρὸς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν ἐξηρτισμένος.for all works good equipped.• The Nature of Scripture: God-breathed & Profitable• The Function of Function: Belief & Behavior + Teaching: Positive related to Belief - Reproof: Negative related to Behavior - Correction: Negative related to Belief + Training: Positive related to Behavior• Result: Character & Service = Adequate: Character (ἄρτιος) = Equipped: Service (ἐξαρτίζω)Indeed, Scripture is the chief meanswhich God employs to bring the ‘man of God' to maturity. John StottUPG FOCUS: The Kapu in India The Kapu are a large Hindu community in southern India, historically known as farmers and protectors, with many still engaged in agriculture today. While some have moved into business, education, and leadership, many remain in rural areas with limited access to resources. Though the Bible andgospel tools are available, only a small percentage follow Christ. Pray for a growing movement of disciples among the Kapu, for hearts to be open to the gospel, and for both their spiritual and physical needs to be met.FinancesWeekly Budget 34,615Giving For 04/26 20,288Giving For 05/03 33,270YTD Budget 1,523,077Giving 1,829,748 OVER/(UNDER) 306,671 Prayer During ServiceWe love to pray for one another. Our prayer team will have people at the front of the Auditorium under the signs Hope and Love to pray for you after the message. Please feel free to walk up to them for prayer or encouragement during the first worship song after the message. New to Fellowship? We are so glad that you chose to worship with our Fellowship Family this morning. If you are joining us for the first time or have been checking us out for a few weeks, we are excited you are here and would love to meet you. Please fill out the “Connect Card” and bring it to the Connection Center in the Atrium, we would love to say “hi” and give you a gift. Fellowship Kids VBS - There's No Place Like Rome… That's why we want your kids to join us for an exciting Bible-times adventure with the Underground Church in ancient Rome! They will explore authentic Marketplace shops, visit the Apostle Paul (who's under house arrest), sneak to the cave where the Underground Church meets, take part in games, dance to lively Bible songs, and sample tasty tidbits as they discover more about the early church. Join us June 22-26, 9:00 am- 12:00 pm. This is for kids currently in Kindergarten through 4th grade. Register by May 24 at fellowshipconway.org/register. Fellowship Women's Bible Study - KNowing God Join us for “Knowing God,” a 4 week study of The Trinity by Rebecca Carter & Heather Harrison. We'll meet Tuesday nights at 6:30pm, beginning June 2nd at Fellowship. Register at fellowshipconway.org/women. Text Shanna at 336-0332 to reserve free childcare by May 25th.Fellowship Kids Summer Volunteers We are wrapping up the school year and preparing to head into summer. We are continuing our three-year journey through the Bible, and we need your help to do so. Our children are ready to learn about and worship Jesus. We have a place for everyone...Nursery, classroom leaders, hall monitors, storytellers, and special needs buddies. The summer sessions are May 31 through August 9. Contact Heather today at hfulmer@fellowshipconway.org or Ashley at aoverstreet@fellowshipconway.orgLife Choices Since 1980, Life Choices Pregnancy Resource Center has championed the sanctity of life and the love of Jesus. Fellowship will join with Life Choices next Sunday, May 17, for the Change for Life drive. Next week grab a baby bottle on a seat around you, take it home and fill with change or a check made out to Life Choices. Bring your bottles back Sunday, May 31. Your generosity gives women in Central Arkansas facing unplanned pregnancies a safe place for spiritual physical, and emotional support. Because of You, Ministry Moves Forward Thank you, Fellowship! Your generous Easter Offering of $27,000 will help purchase a van to serve our student and college ministries—and many more. This isn't just about a vehicle—it's about people, connection, and ministry in motion. It's about students getting where they need to go, building relationships, and having their lives impacted. We're grateful for your faithful giving and praise the Lord for His provision through you.Fellowship 101 We invite you to join us on Sunday, June 14, at 9:00 a.m. to learn more about Fellowship. This is a great opportunity to hear about our mission, values, and our ministries. If you're new to Fellowship, join us in the conference room (first floor) to hear what God is doing and where He is taking us. During this time, you will meet some of our ministry leaders and get to ask questions. Register at fellowshipconway.org/register.

Welcome to Day 2856 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – When Death Becomes Policy: How Christians Must Respond to a Dehumanizing System. Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2856 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2856 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. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found that his lessons are short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who desire to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons can be found on his website   theologyinfive.com.   Today's lesson is titled:  When Death Becomes Policy: How Christians Must Respond to a Dehumanizing System. The biblical view of human life begins with the most foundational truth in Scripture: “God created man in His own image” (Genesis 1 verse twenty-seven). Unlike the surrounding cultures of the ancient Near East, where only kings reflected divinity, Israel declared that every human being bore the image of Yahweh. This principle shaped the covenant people's moral and legal systems. The Law commanded care for the widow, the orphan, and the foreigner. It forbade the sacrifice of children. Justice was not a privilege for the strong. It was a duty toward the weak. The prophets reinforced this ethic repeatedly. Isaiah, Amos, Jeremiah, and Micah rebuked rulers not merely for idol worship, but for oppressing the poor, neglecting the sick, and perverting justice. Human life was sacred not because of economic output, but because it belonged to the Creator. The first segment is: Jesus and the Early Church Jesus expanded and embodied this ethic perfectly. He healed the sick, welcomed the outcast, and affirmed the dignity of the forgotten. He did not divide people by status or function. He saw them as lost sheep, image-bearers in need of restoration. This was not sentiment. It was theology in action. The early Church followed His example with startling results. In a Roman culture where the disabled were abandoned, the elderly discarded, and infants exposed to die, Christians responded with radical mercy. They rescued infants from trash heaps. They nursed the sick during plagues, often at the cost of their own lives. And most notably, they created something the world had never seen before: the hospital. The first true hospital was founded in the late fourth century by St. Basil the Great in Caesarea, Cappadocia. The Basilias was a large complex that included housing for the poor, medical treatment for the sick, and care for lepers. It was not a tool of state power or military strategy, but a direct expression of Christian love for those society rejected. Basil believed that if Christ healed the broken, then His followers must do the same. Other Christians followed his lead. St. Fabiola in Rome founded one of the first hospitals in the West. Monasteries across Europe established infirmaries, not only for monks, but for pilgrims, travelers, beggars, and the dying. The very word hospital comes from hospitalis, Latin for “guest,” reflecting the belief that in caring for the sick, Christians were receiving Christ Himself. This was revolutionary. The Greco-Roman world had temples for the healthy and private physicians for the elite, but no institutions devoted to caring for the poor and dying until Christians built them. Their actions were not driven by utility. They were driven by conviction: life matters because it is made by God, seen by Christ, and destined for eternity. That is the root. That is the legacy. And when modern systems again begin to measure lives by what they cost instead of what they are, Christians must not be silent. They must remember who they are. The second segment is: Hospice Is Not the Enemy It is important to be clear: this is not an argument against hospice or genuine palliative care. Hospice reflects the biblical ethic of compassion. It affirms that life has value even in suffering, and that dignity is preserved not by hastening death, but by honoring a person's final days with comfort and presence. The danger arises when that sacred view of life is replaced by a cold calculation. Instead of seeing the end of life as a transition, society begins to treat it as a solution to systemic and financial problems. When the vulnerable are seen as obstacles, death becomes a policy tool, and compassion is used to justify elimination. The third segment is: A Troubling Shift in Canada Nowhere is this more visible than in Canada. What began as Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) for those suffering from unbearable physical pain has quickly expanded into something far broader. In 2016, just over 1,000 Canadians ended their lives through MAiD. By 2022, that number had surged to over 13,000. It is now reportedly the sixth leading cause of death in the country. Even more troubling is who is now eligible. Increasingly, MAiD is offered not to those with terminal illness, but to those who are poor, mentally ill, or socially isolated. Some have requested euthanasia because they cannot afford housing or support services. Others have been told that medical treatment is not available, but MAiD is. Doctors have reported being pressured to bring up euthanasia as an option, even in cases where it would never have been considered before. And some policy experts have openly acknowledged that the healthcare system is overloaded and needs a centralized solution. Quietly, and without ever officially declaring it, death is being presented as that solution. The fourth segment is: Death as an Economic Decision One of the most disturbing elements of Canada's MAiD system is how these deaths are recorded. In several provinces, including British Columbia and Ontario, official guidance instructs physicians to list the person's underlying illness or condition as the cause of death, even when the immediate act involved a medically administered lethal substance. This is not a clerical oversight. In British Columbia, the College of Physicians and Surgeons directs providers to list MAiD in Part I(a) of the Medical Certificate of Death, but the manner of death is still to be recorded as “natural.” The underlying illness remains the official cause. In Ontario, physicians providing MAiD are required to notify the Office of the Chief Coroner, and the death certificate process generally follows similar lines, emphasizing the condition rather than the procedure. At the federal level, Health Canada's monitoring and reporting system collects MAiD data separately, but the death certificates provided to families and registered in provincial statistics are shaped by these regional protocols. In public datasets and vital statistics, a MAiD death may appear indistinguishable from a natural death. The effect is not only statistical. It reframes euthanasia as a quiet extension of medical care, rather than a deliberate, policy-driven act of ending life. This framing can soften moral and public resistance, making it easier to expand eligibility without backlash. The fifth segment is: When Consent Looks Like Coercion While MAiD is legally defined as voluntary, the real-world conditions under which many of these decisions are made raise serious ethical concerns. Patients have increasingly reported seeking MAiD due to poverty, homelessness, mental illness, or chronic but non-terminal suffering. When essential care is delayed or denied, and when death is positioned as the one guaranteed option, consent begins to look less like a choice and more like surrender. In 2022, a Canadian Forces veteran suffering from PTSD and a traumatic brain injury approached Veterans Affairs for help. Instead of receiving mental health support, he was offered MAiD. A woman named Denise, suffering from multiple chemical sensitivities, chose MAiD because she could not find safe housing. She was not terminally ill, but her pleas for accommodation went unanswered. A man with a degenerative brain condition applied for MAiD after struggling to get the in-home care he needed. His doctor admitted that with proper support, he would not have sought death. A 51-year-old woman with long COVID applied due to unrelenting pain and fatigue. She said she would have preferred to live, but her condition had become intolerable without treatment options. Roger Foley, a man with a neurological condition, recorded hospital staff suggesting assisted death would cost less than long-term care. A woman with scoliosis and fibromyalgia applied after she could no longer afford her medications. Poverty, not disease, drove her request. A homeless man in Ontario with schizophrenia requested MAiD, saying he could not bear another...

Were you dead in sin before God made you alive? In today's Words From The Word devotion, Pastor Roderick Webster opens Ephesians 2:5 (KJV) — "Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ (by grace ye are saved)" — and unpacks one of the most powerful truths in all of Scripture: God does not wait for us to be good enough. He meets us in our spiritual death and gives us life.You might be asking...- If I was spiritually dead, how could I even respond to God?- What does it mean to be "quickened together with Christ"?- Does my union with Christ really change my status before God?- How can I live out this new life when I still struggle with sin?Key points from today's devotion:- Before salvation, every person is spiritually dead and unable to save themselves- God made us alive, raised us, and seated us with Christ — three gifts of grace- Our new life is rooted in our union with Christ, not our own effort- Just as God raised us out of spiritual death, He is powerful enough to sustain us- Romans 6:1-7 reminds us that our new life calls for a walk in newness of lifeIf this devotion encouraged you, please like, comment, share, and subscribe. Your support helps spread the Word across Sint Maarten and beyond.Stay connected with GNBC:

We explore a powerful truth woven throughout Scripture: God's desire to dwell with His people. From Eden to the tabernacle, from the birth of Jesus to his giving of the Holy Spirit, God has been moving heaven and earth back together. Join us Sunday morning as Phil continues our series, The Promise of Hope.

Romans 9 keeps us face to face with one of the hardest truths in Scripture: God is sovereign in mercy, just in judgment, and never unrighteous in anything He does. In this episode, we talk through double predestination, Pharaoh's hardened heart, the removal of divine restraint, and the potter-and-clay picture that reminds us we are not in a position to put God on trial. Even when we cannot fully trace His ways, we can trust His character. God does not create evil in the sinner's heart, but He may justly give sinners over to the evil already there, while showing saving mercy to those He rescues by grace.We also dig into the difference between infralapsarianism and supralapsarianism, and why it matters that God's election is seen in light of fallen humanity and the glory of His grace in Christ. The big takeaway: these doctrines are not meant to keep us from preaching the gospel, but to humble us, deepen our worship, and remind us that salvation belongs to the Lord.Beers featured this week:Anthony — Death By Chocolate Cake by Martin House BrewingMichael — Cheat Day by Southern Tier Brewing

God is a God of patterns and throughout Scripture God has set out patterns and rhthms for His people. Engage with us as we discuss the importance of managing life and time, practically discuss examples of our own rhythms of life, discuss the skill of building healthy rhythms, and end with a live Q&A.

God doesn't just visit.He dwells.And He meets us where altars are built.In this message, “Where God Comes Down: It's Time To Rebuild The Sacred Altars,” we're invited to rediscover a pattern seen all throughout Scripture—God reveals Himself where people intentionally make space for Him. Altars were never about routine; they were about surrender, remembrance, and real encounters with God.Over time, it's easy for those spaces to be neglected. What was once sacred can become distant. This message calls us back, not to empty practice, but to a life marked by intentional surrender and consistent connection with God.In this sermon, you'll hear about:What altars represent and why they matterHow surrender and devotion create space for God to moveWhy what's been neglected needs to be rebuiltWhat it looks like to prioritize God in the everydayThis message invites us to examine what we've allowed to fade—and asks a personal question: What needs to be rebuilt in your life so God has a place to meet you?Because God still comes down.But He meets us at the altar.

Our sermon series, STORIES FROM THE MARGIN, continues with a message about Hagar, Genesis 16, and the God Who Sees. Genesis 16:1-13 www.thevineaustin.org REFLECTION QUESTIONS: 1. Read the passage above. There are many complicated, uncomfortable elements to this story- as with most stories from the margin. What elements do you notice that give you pause, discomfort or questions? 2. Consider where else in Scripture God meets with people in the wilderness? Why do you think the wilderness is fertile ground for transformation? 3. Why do you think Hagar chose that particular name- The God Who Sees Me? What about God seeing her was so transformative? 4. What do you make of the prophetic words in verse 12? 5. What about the sermon was encouraging, confusing or challenging? 6. What did you take from the testimony shared on Sunday? 7. Spend time in contemplation and conversation. Seeking to follow the One who sees Hagar in the wilderness, who has God placed in your life that you could see and listen to with compassion and mercy? Spend time in prayer - to see others in a way that can bring hope, transformation and healing.

In week three of Misquoted, we close the series with a phrase people offer as comfort and treat like Scripture: God will never give you more than you can handle. But God never said that. "God Will Never Give You More Than You Can Handle" traces the verse back to where it actually lives, a [...]

Do you have someone in your life who only reaches out when they want something? That kind of one-sided relationship feels transactional—and it's a powerful mirror for how many believers approach God. In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef challenges us to move beyond “laundry-list” praying—requests without worship, needs without thanksgiving, future-focused anxiety without remembering God's past faithfulness. When we forget what God has already done, our prayers weaken because forgetfulness reveals ingratitude—and we begin taking credit for victories only God could have accomplished. Dr. Youssef points to a pattern throughout Scripture: God repeatedly calls His people to remember—sometimes by setting up visible memorials of His provision. These “Ebenezer stones” (“stone of help”) become spiritual markers that spark renewal, revive gratitude, and draw us back into abiding fellowship with Christ. They remind us where our help truly comes from—and they re-center our hearts on God's glory, not just our requests. As you listen, ask yourself: What memorial is God calling you to set up today so you'll stay focused on Him, abide in His presence, and learn to pray without ceasing? Prayer: Father, forgive me for forgetting to take the time to praise and adore You. You have been so faithful to me. Thank You for loving me and saving me. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds” (Psalm 77:11-12). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon What Is Your Ebenezer?: WATCH NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

How did Philip vanish after his encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch? Why is Bible teaching important? How should we view evangelism and discipleship? In this episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark Students Resident, Ellie Higgins, discuss the account of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8:26-40. Together, they explore the importance of Bible teaching, being Spirit-led to share the gospel, and the joy of understanding Scripture.  // ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED: Luke 24: 13-35; 2 Timothy 3: 16-17; Hebrews 4: 12; 1 Peter 3: 15; John 6: 21; Luke 4: 30 // RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  S4:266 – Acts 7-8 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-266-acts-7-8/id1600151923?i=1000735540307)  // RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY: Christ from Beginning to End by Stephen J. Wellum and Trent Hunter (https://a.co/d/0d1RXPpP) Christian Theology by Christopher W. Morgan with Robert A. Peterson (https://a.co/d/0bB797cA) Learn the overarching story of Scripture: God's Big Picture by Vaughan Roberts (https://a.co/d/07y2Qfc4) Learn the Bible's key people, events, and doctrines: 30 Days to Understanding the Bible by Max Anders (https://a.co/d/04JQL8Fe) // WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY? Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together. Join The Journey Jr. is designed to help parents guide their kids in Bible reading through interactive and age-specific lessons. In 2026, we're studying the book of Acts—one passage per week. For another year, teaching on Sunday will align with each week's passage. Then, for the next six days, we'll return to the same passage with fresh focus, exploring insights about who God is and how we can enjoy him more deeply. Monday through Saturday, we'll approach the same passage from a different perspective each day—whether observation, interpretation, prayer, or another spiritual practice—to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for God's Word. Then, watch or listen to the video podcast to tackle the week's toughest verses and discover key historical, theological, and practical insights. Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://jointhejourney.com Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://jointhejourney.com/jr Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...  // MORE RESOURCES FROM JOIN THE JOURNEY:  Digital Bible study resources: https://jointhejourney.com/resources Previous years' print curriculum: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Waterma... Contact the Join The Journey team: jointhejourney@watermark.org  

 In 2 Chronicles 32:31, we find one of the most sobering statements in Scripture: “God left him to himself, in order to test him and to know all that was in his heart.” What does it mean when God “steps back”? Is it abandonment… or something deeper? Is God silent, or is He just testing your heart? In this video, we dive into the powerful (and often misunderstood) message of 2 Chronicles 32:31 to understand why God sometimes "withdraws" His visible presence from our lives. Connect with us: YouTube: YouTube.com/@soul02-oxygen Facebook: @LP.Oxygen https://www.facebook.com/LP.Oxygen Instagram: LP.Oxygen Twitter: @Soul025 Buzzsprout: Soul02-Buzzsprout Spotify: Soul02 - Spotify Apple: Soul02-Itunes Stitcher: Soul02-Stitcher 

In week two of Misquoted, we take on a phrase our whole culture believes and treats like Scripture: God just wants me happy. But God never said that. "God Just Wants Me Happy" exposes what happens when happiness becomes the goal, because then God becomes the means to get there, and the moment following Jesus [...]

Enjoying these teachings on CHARACTER? Get the Free Study Guide: BecomeNew.com/study-guides - Download, print, and go!Is life actually fair? It's a question we all wrestle with—at home, at work, in culture, and deep in our own stories. But what if fairness isn't just something we demand… what if it's something we're called to become?In today's teaching, we explore the biblical vision of fairness and justice, tracing a powerful theme throughout Scripture: God does not show favoritism. From Cain and Abel to David to Jesus Himself, we see a God who consistently elevates the overlooked and challenges human systems of privilege and power.This message will challenge you to examine your own biases, confront favoritism in your life, and ask one simple but profound question:  Who am I overlooking?Because the way you treat people matters more than you think.

Send us Fan MailIn this verse-by-verse study of Job 1:6–12, Reasoning Through the Bible continues its study through the book of Job by looking behind the curtain into the heavenly scene where Satan appears before the Lord. This passage addresses one of the most important biblical questions about suffering: who is really in control when hardship enters the life of a believer?This session explores the identity of the “sons of God,” the meaning of Satan as the adversary and accuser, and the significance of Satan presenting himself before God. The study highlights the absolute sovereignty of God, showing that Satan is not acting independently or outside of divine authority. It also emphasizes that Job's suffering is not the result of hidden sin, but part of a larger purpose Job himself does not yet see.This episode also examines why God brings up Job, what Satan's accusation reveals about human motives, and how this passage helps believers think biblically about spiritual warfare, suffering, and trust in God when heaven is silent.Topics in this episode include: Job 1:6–12 explained  Satan appearing before God  the sons of God in Job  who Satan is in Scripture  God's sovereignty over evil  why righteous people suffer  suffering is not always caused by sin  spiritual warfare in the book of Job  trusting God when you do not know why Reasoning Through the Bible is a verse-by-verse Bible teaching ministry committed to careful study, biblical context, and faithful exposition of Scripture.Support the showThank you for listening!!  Please give us a five-star rating to help your podcast provider's algorithm spread RTTB among their listeners. You can find free study and leader resources at the following link - Resource Page - Reasoning Through the BiblePlease prayerfully consider supporting RTTB to help us to continue providing content and free resources. You can do that at this link - Support RTTB - Reasoning Through the Bible May God Bless you!! - Glenn and Steve

You Are a Star — And It's Time to Act Like ItWhat if the life you've been searching for isn't something you have to build from scratch — but something you were born into?In this episode of The Account for Your Life, Jay Moore opens with one of the most powerful promises in Scripture: God telling Abraham that his descendants would outnumber the stars. Jay's message? You are one of those stars. And your refusal — or inability — to claim that identity is costing you more than you know.Jay weaves together biblical storytelling, raw personal testimony (including the loss of both parents in 2025, a near-fatal car accident he survived as a child, and the leap of faith that changed his family's financial future forever), and a bold cultural critique to deliver one of his most compelling episodes yet.This isn't a prosperity gospel pep talk. This is a kingdom-minded awakening for anyone who's been living beneath their calling — distracted by systems, religion, culture, or fear — and is finally ready to step into the role God designed for them.If you're tired of treading water and ready to rule your territory — this episode is for you.New episodes every Wednesday.[

In this powerful episode of the 9941 Podcast, Granger, Tyler, Parker, and AntMan dive into a gripping real-world story that perfectly reflects the heart behind the podcast’s mission: leaving the 99 to find the one. The conversation centers around a dramatic rescue mission involving a downed U.S. Air Force colonel deep in enemy territory. Facing overwhelming odds, injury, and isolation, the pilot relied on his training—and more importantly, the unwavering belief that he would not be left behind. That belief ultimately drove his survival. From there, the episode transitions into a deeper biblical discussion, connecting this real-life rescue to the words of Jesus in Luke 15 and the promise found throughout Scripture: God does not abandon His people. The crew explores themes of: Faith in the middle of fear and uncertainty Spiritual “training” through Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17) The reality of persecution in the Christian life The hope believers have in God’s promise to rescue and redeem This episode challenges the idea of comfort-driven faith and instead points to a deeper, more resilient trust in God—even when life gets harder, not easier. If you’ve ever wondered how to hold onto faith in difficult seasons, this conversation will hit home. Follow the show: Instagram - https://www.Instagram.com/9941thepodcast Facebook - https://www.Facebook.com/9941thepodcast YouTube - https://www.YouTube.com/@9941ThePodcast Online - https://www.9941ThePodcast.com Shop - https://yeeyee.com/collections/faithSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the Bible isn't a collection of disconnected stories—but one unified story that you're already part of?In Week 1 of Find Your Place in God's Mission, Chris Nichols introduces a conversation with Ed Stetzer and Ted Coniaris that explores the central storyline of Scripture: God's mission to redeem and restore all creation.Through Luke 24 and the story of the road to Emmaus, we see how Jesus helped His followers rediscover where they stood in that story—and why it changed everything.This message speaks to anyone who has ever felt: Disconnected from purpose  Stuck in the routine of everyday life  Unsure where they fit in God's plan Rather than calling us to find a new story, Jesus invites us to remember the one we're already in.Key Scripture: Luke 24:25–27, 44–48, 32 Big Idea: God's mission is the story of the Bible—and our purpose is to join Him in it.Featuring insights from Ed Stetzer, this episode helps frame the entire biblical narrative—Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Restoration—and invites you to find your place within it.

If you’re walking through something heavy right now—grief, disappointment, or just a season that feels hard—this conversation is for you. Today, I’m talking with Kirby Kelly about what it really looks like to hold onto hope when life doesn’t make sense. We dive into the power of lament, why your emotions matter to God, and how to anchor your hope in something deeper than your circumstances. Kirby shares her personal story and gives us practical ways to shift our perspective and trust God in the middle of it all. If you need encouragement today, this one is for you! And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways [0:01:04] Introducing Guest Author Kirby Kelly [0:04:12] From Family Chaos to Grieving with Hope [0:09:54] Lament as a Pathway to Hope [0:14:56] Four Pillars of Biblical Hope The 4 Pillars of Hope: God’s Promises Cling to what He has already spoken—especially through Scripture God’s Patterns Look back and remember how He has been faithful before God’s Personhood Anchor yourself in who God is—not what you’re feeling God’s Presence You are never walking through anything alone. Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith. Connect with Kirby:Website: kirby-kelly.com YouTube: @kirbyisaboss Instagram: @kirbyisaboss Podcast: Bought + Beloved Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode 2.95Narrative Juxtaposition: How the Bible Speaks Through Story Placement | Part 5In this episode of Narrative Juxtaposition, Michael and Zach examine a striking contrast in Jeremiah's final days: a king who refuses to act, a prophet who faithfully suffers, and a servant who steps forward with courage. As Jerusalem collapses under Babylon's siege, the story reveals that true faithfulness is not measured by position or power, but by obedience.Zedekiah hears God's word but lacks the courage to follow it. Jeremiah remains faithful even when abandoned and thrown into a pit. But the unexpected hero is Ebed-melech, a foreign servant who risks everything to rescue the prophet—demonstrating the kind of trust and action the king himself failed to show.The episode traces how this pattern echoes across Scripture: God often advances His purposes through outsiders, the overlooked, and the powerless. The takeaway is clear—God's kingdom does not move forward through hesitant leaders, but through faithful servants who act with courage when it matters most.Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/P3pQLQYm2F0Merch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

What if our biggest barrier with God isn't sin, but politeness?In this episode, John Ortberg explores a surprising truth from Scripture: God isn't looking for polished prayers. He's inviting honest relationship. Through the story of Job, we discover something shocking:Job rages. Questions God. Speaks words that feel almost dangerous. And yet—God says Job spoke what is right. Why? Because honesty draws us closer to God while polite distance keeps Him far away.Even Jesus cried out on the cross: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”So if you've ever felt:confuseddisappointedhurtunsure what God is doingYou're not alone, and you don't have to hide it.Today's invitation is simple: Be real with God.Because the path to deeper faith isn't pretending—it's honesty.

This Sunday, we'll be in Daniel chapter 5, the account that gives us the familiar phrase “the handwriting on the wall.” The story centers on King Belshazzar, who throws a massive celebration in Babylon while the Persian army is already surrounding the city. In the middle of the feast he commits a brazen act of arrogance by using the sacred vessels taken from the temple in Jerusalem to toast false gods. What follows is one of the most dramatic scenes in Scripture - God interrupts the party as a mysterious hand appears and writes a message of judgment on the palace wall. When Daniel is brought in to interpret the writing, he reminds the king of what happened to his predecessor, Nebuchadnezzar. Nebuchadnezzar had learned the hard lesson that God rules over the kingdoms of men, but Belshazzar ignored that warning and hardened his heart. The words written on the wall - Mene, Mene, Tekel, Parsin - announce God's verdict: the king's days are numbered, his life has been weighed and found wanting, and his kingdom will be taken from him. That very night, the Persians enter the city, Babylon falls, and the king dies. This passage is a sobering reminder that pride can blind us to reality. Belshazzar partied with the enemy already at the gate, convinced he was untouchable. The message of Daniel 5 shows us that what belongs to God should never be used to celebrate sin, and that every life will one day be weighed by God's standard. The good news of the gospel is that while all of us would be found wanting on our own, Christ was weighed and found perfect in our place. Christians are those who have learned to read the writing on the wall and place their hope in Him.

SERMON SUMMARYWe kicked off this week by going deeper into the foundation underneath our Here for Good series and our Transforming Together growth campaign. Before we talk about buildings, timelines, or giving, we need to talk about the thing that holds all of it up: prayer.We started in Joshua 10, where Joshua finds himself in a battle that God has already promised to deliver into his hands, but the sun is going down and time is running out. So Joshua prays one of the most audacious prayers in all of Scripture: God, make the sun stand still. And God does it. What makes this even more compelling is that Joshua was in that situation partly because of his own mistakes. He made a treaty he never should have made. And yet when he cried out, God answered anyway. That should give all of us freedom to bring our messes to God and still ask boldly.From there we moved into Acts 4, where Peter and John have just been released from jail for preaching about Jesus. Instead of pulling back, their community gathers and prays for even greater boldness. They don't pray for safety or an easier assignment. They pray, "Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus." And when they finish praying, the place shakes.We closed with Revelation 8, where heaven itself goes silent to receive the prayers of the saints, and those prayers are mixed with fire and hurled back toward the earth. Walter Wink wrote that history belongs to the intercessors who believe the future into being. That is our call in this season. We are praying for people whose names God already knows, for seats that don't exist yet but will. The foundation of everything we are building together is a people who pray, specifically, persistently, and boldly.URF WEBSITE: ➤ http://www.urfellowship.comSOCIALS: ➤ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urfellowship/➤ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/urfellowship

Today, Fr. Mike discusses the confidence that faith in God can provide as we fight the battles of our lives. He also engages with the riddles found in Wisdom 10 and points out that we can now not only understand the characters, stories, and allusions of Scripture, but can recognize the fingerprints of God in the world around us and better understand the main character of Scripture: God. Today's readings are 2 Maccabees 10, Wisdom 9-10, and Proverbs 25:4-7. 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.