Podcasts about scripture i corinthians

Daily Dose of Hope February 13, 2026   Scripture: I Corinthians 16   Prayer:  Holy God, We come before you on this Friday with humility and gratefulness.  We praise your powerful name.  Thank you, so much, Lord, that you came to earth to dwell among us and show us a different way of being.  Help us to pay attention to your example.  Help us to be more loving and more merciful in all we do.  Help us to be even but a small reflection of you.  You are King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  Thank you, Jesus.  Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  We have been journeying through the apostle Paul's pastoral letters in chronological order.  Today, we are finishing our fourth letter – I Corinthians. Our text is I Corinthians 16, the final chapter of this letter.  For the most part, Paul gives practical advice and wisdom. He speaks of taking up a collection for the greater church and of welcoming Christian workers who will be coming to their area soon. It's right after this call to welcome and respect the new leaders that Paul makes this statement, "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love." I think we would do well to also heed this advice. This idea of being on guard or being alert seems to suggest that we are in a battle not just with earthly powers but also against the power of evil. There are forces in this world that work against Jesus Christ and as his followers.  The Corinthians (and us for that matter) should be aware, alert, and on guard. How easy it was for the Corinthians to drift and get distracted. Umm...sound familiar? Remember whose and who you are might be another way to say it; stay focused on the things of God! Then, there is a call to be courageous and strong. We know from the previous chapters that the Corinthians were arrogant and complacent. Paul is asking them to have courage and do what God has called them to do. Again, I'm thinking Paul could just as easily be talking to the modern church. We have tradition, we have beautiful worship, we have access to all kinds of knowledge, but we don't have courage. This is starting to get personal. Might I add that this kind of strength has nothing to do with physical stamina and the ability to lift heavy weights. This is an internal strength that comes only from God. Finally, Paul says to do everything in love. Yes, being on guard, standing firm, and having courage and strength are critical but they are all pointless if not done with love. Paul is not calling the Corinthians to use aggression or self-assertion (remember, this is how the Corinthian church viewed Christian leadership). Rather, Paul is saying to exhibit all these qualities while demonstrating the love and grace of Jesus. That means, no bullying people to Jesus, no shaming people to Jesus, no manipulating people to Jesus, but only loving people to Jesus. Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Daily Dose of Hope February 12, 2026   Scripture:  I Corinthians 15   Prayer: Abba Father, You are our Creator, Provider, and Sustainer.  Thank you, Lord, for wanting to be in relationship with us. You are a God who sits high and looks low.  You, who are over everything, also care deeply for us.  We are so grateful.  Help us do all we can to glorify you.  We desperately need you, Jesus.  Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently walking through Paul's pastoral letters.  We've been through Galatians, I and II Thessalonians, and we are now in I Corinthians. Today's reading is I Corinthians 15.  Paul is asserting in this chapter that the resurrection of Jesus is central to the Gospel. Apparently, there were Christians at Corinth who were espousing the view that Jesus was not raised and that the resurrection was not true. It's possible that they were reverting to their old Greek view of immortality of the soul and not the body. It's also possible that they were simply skeptics who were trying to poke holes in the resurrection story. But Paul is stating here that if resurrection did not occur, our faith is totally useless. That would mean that Jesus did not defeat death, it would mean that we are misrepresenting God, and it would mean we are still dead in our sins. Some thoughts: The resurrection is SIGNIFICANT. All that Jesus did, his whole life was vindicated with the resurrection. The resurrection proved that Jesus was who he said he was, God is who he said he was, and affirmed Jesus' divinity. Think about Paul's words in Romans 1:4"and he was shown to be the Son of God when he was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit. He is Jesus Christ our Lord." The resurrection is so important in that it provides assurance and hope that our physical death is not the end. It not only points to life after death but also the future resurrection of believers. Let's visit Romans again, 8:11 says, "The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you." Jesus' resurrection promises victory over death. But the resurrection is also TRANSFORMATIVE. It is transformative for us as individuals and forus as the body, for the church. I think the most important aspect of believing in the resurrection is that Jesus' resurrection is what provides the power to change us now. It provides the power for complete transformation, to bring what was essentially dead to something that is alive and vibrant and productive. When someone says yes to Jesus Christ, a spiritually dead person becomes united with a life-giving Savior. When that happens, his resurrection produces a resurrection in us. The word resurrection actually comes from the same root as resurgence or rising again. We become connected to a life-giving power, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead. This resurrection power has the ability to revive us, restore us, renew us, transform us. The apostle Paul states inI Corinthians 5:17, "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!" There are certainly no shortage of books that detail the evidence for Jesus' resurrection. One good one that is short and easy to digest is Lee Strobel's The Case for Easter. What are your thoughts on the resurrection? Spend some time in prayer about this today. Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Daily Dose of Hope February 11, 2026   Scripture:  I Corinthians 14   Prayer:   Almighty God, Thank you for a new day and a new chance to give you glory and praise.  You are an amazing God.  How incredible it is that you, who created everything, know my name.  You know every hair on my head.  While I am so grateful for your love and care, it is sometimes difficult for me to adequately wrap my brain around your expansive love and mercy.  Help me be a better reflection of you, Lord.  Help me see others through your eyes.  Help me be merciful, kind, and good.  Lord, I know I fall short.  So often.  But I want to do better.  In these next few moments of silence, Jesus, hear my prayer...  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are journeying through Paul's letter in the New Testament.  We are currently on our fourth pastoral letter, I Corinthians.   Our reading for today was I Corinthians 14.  This chapter is all about order in worship.  A lot of the text has to do with the speaking of tongues. I want to be clear that Paul is not against speaking in tongues.  However, he is clear that tongues benefit the speaker more than the listener. Prophecy, on the other hand, benefits the listeners. This is a passage often taken out of context. Yes, tongues are a gift of the Spirit and for many people, tongues provide an intimate way to communicate with God. But within the context of worship, tongues (spoken publicly) are appropriate only if there is an interpreter. According to Paul, the question to always ask is "Does this build up the body of Christ?"   Speaking of taking passages out of context, the second half of this chapter about good order in worship has been misused by many. Is Paul saying that women need to always be silent in church? No, he isn't, as he is supportive of women's participation in worship in other passages. Just a few chapters before this, in I Corinthians 11:5, Paul mentioned women praying and prophesying aloud in worship.   What does he mean in today's text? Keep in mind, this is a pastoral letter that is addressing a specific situation in a specific place. Corinth was a wild, out of control place. These women have grown up being influenced by this environment. Don't get me wrong, the Greek and Roman world was still highly patriarchal and women had little if any rights or privileges. But in the church, women were valued and had a certain degree of freedom. They could learn, speak, pray, and work alongside the men in many ways. Most likely, in this situation, there was confusion and disorder in the church worship and Paul needed to address it. The Greek word used in the text for speak actually is better translated "chattering." Most likely, these women were interrupting worship with their constant chattering. Maybe they were asking questions. Maybe they were talking amongst themselves. We really don't know.   This leads to an important point. We cannot pick certain Scripture verses and pull them out of their contexts, trying to force an application today. What's important is to look at what the whole Biblical narrative says about a certain topic. Does the whole Biblical narrative insist women be silent in worship OR do we see women lifted up by Jesus, involved in the ministry of the early church, and working as effective prophets, leaders, and teachers (often praised by Paul)? When one or two verses seem out of place, contradicting the rest of the Biblical narrative, then there is probably a deeper meaning behind them. The key is go deeper, study, learn the context and background, and try to discern the author's original intention.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

Daily Dose of Hope February 10, 2026   Scripture:  I Corinthians 13   Prayer:  Today, let's pray from Scripture.  Dear God,  Your Word says that, Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.  This is certainly who you are, Lord.  Help us live this kind of love out in ways that make a difference in the lives of those around us.  More of you, less of me.  We pray this in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.    Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We are journeying through Paul's pastoral letters.  Currently, we are in I Corinthians.   Today's passage is I Corinthians 13.  This is going to be a pretty familiar chapter for many of you.  It's often called the "love" chapter and it is read at weddings and funerals.  It's absolutely beautiful prose but we often get Paul's intention wrong when we read it.   Remember, the Corinthian church was a total mess. They were arrogant, there were strong divisions between rich and poor, there were petty arguments and serious factions, and as we learned yesterday, they were holding up certain spiritual gifts as better than others.  Let's just say it wasn't a picture of Christ's love and grace.   It's in the middle of all of this that Paul tells them what it means to really love one another. This isn't romantic love (eros), brotherly love (philia), but rather agape love. What is agape love? It's the love that God demonstrated to us and calls us to demonstrate to others. It is unconditional, sacrificial love. There is no selfishness in agape but only a concern for the what is best for the other. Paul is outlining this love to the Corinthian church to give them a word picture of what it could look like. Agape is not a feeling or emotion but rather a choice. We make a choice to love others this way and it requires commitment, faithfulness, and sacrifice without requiring anything in return.   Paul, at the end of his discussion about spiritual gifts, wants to make a very important point.  Yes, you can have a gift of prophecy or a gift of tongues, but if you are using it without love, then it is totally useless.  And, you have missed the point.  These gifts were gifts of grace from the Holy Spirit to uplift and equip the body of Christ.  The body of Jesus on earth should be a picture of his love.  If it isn't, we have a really big problem.  Jesus is love and we are called to be as well.    One of my seminary professors, when teaching on agape love, encouraged all of us to do what he called the Wal-mart exercise (I've spoken of this in previous sermons). Really, you can go to any place the public gathers. It could be the mall, Target, or Publix. He suggested sitting down on a public bench and just watching people go by for five minutes. For every single person you see, say "Jesus died for this person. He/she is infinitely loved by God. I'm called to love this person as well." For me, this is challenging. I have to be very intentional about not falling into the trap of judging the person because of how they look but truly looking at them, trying to see them as God sees them, and then focusing on how God wants me to love them unconditionally too.   This has changed me. God's agape love for me is real. My love for others should be too. What would it look like if all of us who are part of New Hope started to "agape" each other? How would this change us as people? How would this change our relationships? How would this change us as a body of believers and our witness to the world?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

Daily Dose of Hope February 9, 2026   Scripture: I Corinthians 12   Prayer:  Dear God, You are amazing!  How awesome it is that you who created all things are also so intimately involved in our lives.  We give you glory and praise for who you are.  We are so thankful for your love.  We want to know you more.  We want and need to hear your voice.  Help us set aside our scattered thoughts and focus on you.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, hear our prayers...  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We are journeying through Paul's pastoral letters.  Currently, we are in I Corinthians. Today's passage is I Corinthians 12.  Paul starts by reminding the believers of their former ignorance.  Afterall, there was a time not too long ago that they didn't know about the one true God but worshiped idols.  Now, they know Jesus and have the Holy Spirit within them – the Spirit of the Living God inside their physical body!  One of the many transformations that happens to us when we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior is that the Holy Spirit gives us a spiritual gift (sometimes even more than one.)    A spiritual gift could be seen as a God-given capacity that allows each believer to serve and uplift the body of Christ. And how do you get into this body of Christ?  In verses 13-14, Paul writes, For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.  Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. The body of Christ is Jesus' church.  The specific word that Paul uses here for gift is charisma, which comes from charis, which is the Greek word for grace.  A spiritual gift is a gift of God's grace.  It's not something we have earned or developed.  But there is a wide diversity of gifts that the Spirit offers, and Paul lists many of these, including the gift of preaching/teaching, prophecy, apostleship, evangelism, and shepherding. There are even more specific gifts under these main headings. But while there is diversity in gifts, there is unity in purpose. The body of Christ requires all these different people with different and unique gifts to be working together to ensure that Jesus' mission continues to be carried out in the world. One gift is not more important than another but they are all essential to have a fully functioning body.   The Corinthians knew about the spiritual gifts.  This would not been new information to them.  But the problem was how they were using the gifts.  Certain gifts were being lifted up as more important than others.  And there appears to be a bit of a free for all in how the gifts are being used.  So, Paul wants them to know a different way.  He wants them to understand that all the gifts work together to bring unity to the church.  In fact, the church needs all of the gifts to be fruitful and effective.  He doesn't want the Corinthians to stop using their spiritual gifts, but he wants them to do so with maturity.  And as we will see in the next chapter, he wants the church to use their gifts with love (rather than arrogance or pride.)   Do you know what spiritual gifts you have been given? If not, I strongly encourage you to pray about that today. There are some really good spiritual gifts assessments that are free online as well. God has given us gifts for the purpose of building up the body of Christ. If you know your gifts, are you currently making use of them at New Hope or in your local church? There are many parts but one body. Your gifts are needed to form a fully functioning, healthy, thriving community of faith!   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Daily Dose of Hope February 6, 2026   Scripture: I Corinthians 11   Prayer: Dear Holy God, Your love is amazing.  Thank you for the way you care for us.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, help us focus on you...Lord Jesus, help us set aside every distraction and take this time to lean on you.  We want to hear your voice.  Amen.   Welcome back, everyone, to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that goes along with the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We have been walking through Paul's letters and it has been challenging!  We've made it through Galatians, I and II Thessalonians, and we are now in I Corinthians. Our reading for today is I Corinthians 11.  The first part of the chapter has to do with head coverings. I didn't choose that for our main focus today but I do think it is worth a brief mention. Paul implores the women to cover their heads and the men not to cover their heads. This is confusing to us in a time and place in which head coverings serve an entirely different purpose (typically shade from the sun, warmth, or an accessory). But in ancient Greek and Roman culture, the main difference between a man and woman's attire was that women covered their head with a scarf-like material. The only women who did not do this were high class mistresses, slaves, prostitutes, and pagan prophetesses. Thus, when the women didn't wear their head covering or it fell off in the movement of worship, it was a significant distraction. In a highly patriarchal culture, it definitely sent the wrong signal, one that Paul really didn't want these women to send. Then, there is this whole issue with the Lord's Supper, or Holy Communion.  Remember, they didn't have church buildings and they met in people's homes.  In fact, they met in some of the wealthier members' homes, because they had bigger homes that could accommodate a larger group.  Makes sense.  But the wealthier church members, who probably knew each other fairly well because they all ran in the same circles, were meeting ahead of time for a grand meal, that they would pair with communion, and they were eating and drinking and eating and drinking.  You can see where this is going.   By the time the poorer church members got off work and arrived, the wealthier people had been eating and drinking for quite a while.  All the food was eaten and they were drunk.  There were also no seats in the main room.  So, the poor people were basically sitting in a different area, hungry, without what they needed to receive communion together with the rest of the church.  It was like two separate churches, one for the rich and one for the poor.  And, not surprisingly, resentment was growing.  This is totally patronizing for the poor people.  Paul is appalled.  You can hear it in the letter, "Don't you have homes to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God by humiliating those who have nothing? Why are you bringing this mess to church???"  Paul was basically saying that the Corinthians could not call what they were doing the Lord's Supper.    Keep in mind, the Corinthian society was very segregated.  Rich people didn't associate with poor people.  Classes stayed separate.  It isn't surprising that the rich in the church didn't want to hang out with the poor people.  They were dirty and hard to make conversation with.  And the poor people probably were really intimidated by the rich people.  Yet, Jesus had set up his church to be different from culture and that is what Paul is getting at here.  The Gospel turns things upside down.   We can look at Christians throughout the ages – the huge disparity of rich and poor, the way people of color were often turned away at the church door.  We had that in our own denomination.  I just got done reading White Trash (by Nancy Isenberg), which attempts to tell the story of class in America.  And it talks about how the wealthy classes totally discarded the poor.  They called the poor "waste people."  It was like their lives had totally no value to them.  And this is what got me: The wealthy aristocracy, who called the poor whites and blacks around them waste people, they attended church every Sunday.  They believed in God, they professed faith in Jesus.  And Jesus walked closely with the poor.  The Gospel was good news to the poor.  So, what happened?    As a church, I'm not sure we have really wanted the Gospel message.  We like it, as long as it gets us into heaven but we don't like it when it means we have to change our lives and our prejudices and our perspectives.  We like wearing a cross but not carrying one.    In Corinth, they were basically showing that their belief wasn't genuine.  They were demonstrating a value system, it just wasn't Jesus'.  I think through the ages, the church has demonstrated a value system, it just often has not been Jesus' value system.    What about New Hope?  What value system do we demonstrate?    What value system do you demonstrate?  I promise you, the way we live Monday – Saturday is showing the people around us who we are and who we belong to, just like in Corinth.  It's just as true today.  Who do we belong to?  Is it going to be about us or is it going to be about Jesus?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

Daily Dose of Hope February 5, 2026   Scripture: I Corinthians 10   Prayer: Lord Jesus, We rejoice in you.  We praise your name.  You are the Alpha and the Omega, the one who was, and is, and is to come.  We cannot possibly express our gratitude in words.  You have offered us mercy but you have also given us freedom.  Thank you for that.  Help us live like free people.  Help us demonstrate your love and grace to others who cross our path.  Help us see people through your eyes.  We love you, Lord.  Amen. Welcome back, everyone, to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that goes along with the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We have been walking through Paul's letters and it has been challenging!  We've made it through Galatians, I and II Thessalonians, and we are now in I Corinthians. Our reading for today is I Corinthians 10.  The chapter starts with story-telling from the exodus out of Egypt, mainly because these stories are critical learning experiences for God's people.  What's fascinating is that Paul includes his Gentile audience in these stories.  Look at verse 1, For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers and sisters, that our ancestors were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea.  Paul has stressed that as Christians they are not bound to the law.  Despite that, they are now a part of God's people.  However, and this is critical, they are NOT to fall into the pattern of the Israelites or so many of those in Corinth.  They are not to worship other gods, they are not to intimately involve themselves with those who oppose God's people, and they are not to question the goodness of God.  They need to be careful.  Temptation is there and they could easily fall into sin as their ancestors did. Paul continues to write about freedoms. Yes, we have the right to do everything but that doesn't mean we should do everything. While we may have the right to do something, the biggest question to ask is, "Is this building up the body of Christ?" Paul emphasizes that while legalism isn't good, neither is it good to be overly permissive. There are times when we should curb our freedoms if it might harm a new Christian or hurt the witness of the Gospel The bottom line is we need to think about our words and actions in every situation. I've been in small Christian gatherings in which certain members feel the need to loudly communicate their dislikes about a specific Christian ministry, another Christian church, or even a fellow believer. Now, thinking about Paul's reasoning, they have the freedom to do this but is it beneficial? Is it building up the body of Christ? What if there was someone in the group who was a new believer or on the fence about faith? How would such a discussion affect their faith journey? Just because we can do something doesn't mean we should. Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Daily Dose of Hope February 4, 2026   Scripture: I Corinthians 9   Prayer:  Holy God, We come before you today rejoicing in your powerful name.  Thank you for who you are and all you do.  Thank you for loving us.  Help us gather our scattered thoughts, help us set aside distractions, and truly focus on you right now.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, we want to hear your voice...In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back, everyone, to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We have been journeying through Paul's letters.  Today, we are in I Corinthians.   Our reading for today was I Corinthians 9.  In this chapter, Paul continues his discussion on freedom in Christ. There were obviously those in the Corinthian church who were challenging Paul. We've talked about this in previous chapters-their view of Christian leadership was skewed. The Corinthians viewed strong church leaders as those who made known their authority by lording it over others. It was about power, reputation, and popularity. Paul is the exact opposite. He is saying that yes, he has freedoms and rights, but he doesn't abuse or misuse them.   Paul lists three rights/freedoms he has decided not to claim. The first was the right to food and drink, the second was the right to be accompanied by a wife, and the third was to be paid for his work as an apostle. He was a totally free man with rights but he intentionally chose not to use those rights. Paul did not want to be swayed by personal whims or desires. Rather, he wanted to be fully and totally focused on the Gospel. Indulging in these freedoms, while they are not bad things, might divert him from the purpose. Everything is about the mission for Paul and he didn't want to risk doing anything that could challenge his integrity and compromise the mission.   Paul is really committed to the cause.  I'm not sure many of us would give up what he has freely chosen to give up.  I'm struggling with this.  I like good food, I'm married, and I get paid for my work as a pastor.  Let's be clear, God does not require us to give these things up.  But, we may decide there are certain things that get in the way of our service to the Lord.  Only we can know what those things are.    One point that Paul makes is that by making these sacrifices, he is actually a stronger leader, not a lesser one. What is your view of Christian leadership? Are sacrifices essential to achieving the mission? What sacrifices have you made to share the Gospel of Jesus with others?  How do you reconcile all of this?    Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope February 3, 2026   Scripture:  I Corinthians 8   Prayer:  Almighty God, you are so good.  Thank you for your love, your mercy, and your forgiveness.  How amazing it is that you care so much for me.  You are my everything.  Help me take my scattered thoughts this morning and focus on you and you alone.  In these next few moments of silence, help me center myself on you...Holy Spirit, come and speak to me through your Word.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  Right now, we are working our way through Paul's pastoral letters.  We are currently in I Corinthians.   Today, our reading was I Corinthians 8.  The Christians in the church at Corinth would have experienced a significant life change when they came to know Jesus.  And this would have led to lots of questions.  I want us to talk about the whole issue of meat sacrificed to idols and why this would have generated confusion in the church.   Meat wasn't typically consumed by the average person.  They were vegetarians by necessity.  Meat was just too expensive.  But Corinth had many cults (dedicated to the Greek/Roman gods), which included animal sacrifices, and meetings at these cults would have been some of the only times that the average person would eat meat.  These cult-like organizations were common experiences for many Corinthians, a part of their social and civic circle if you will.  Even Christians, who only believed in the one true God and rejected the Greek/Roman gods, might participate in these organizations and consumed meat there.    What Paul is saying is that the meat being consumed at these events is kind of irrelevant.  The meat is neither holy nor unholy – it's just meat.  But being part of these cults is an issue.  While those who are strong in their faith (possess knowledge is the phrase that Paul uses) may be able to attend these cult meals and not be affected by them, others who are weaker may very well be affected by them.  Thus, Paul encourages those with stronger consciences to not participate simply so as not to confuse or negatively influence a weaker brother or sister.    This was not about doctrine but really more of a pastoral argument.  We love our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ and we should refrain from this, not because it's inherently wrong, but because we love them and don't want them to stumble.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Daily Dose of Hope February 2, 2026   Scripture:  I Corinthians 7   Prayer:  Dear Lord, After a hurried weekend, sometimes we rush into the week.  Help us slow down and focus on you.  Help us set aside our scattered thoughts and distractions.  Help us have laser focus on you and your Word.  Lord, in these next few moments of silence, we yearn to hear your still small voice...Come Holy Spirit and guide our reading, our interpretation, and our thoughts.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently working our way through Paul's pastoral letters.  We are currently in I Corinthians. Today, our reading was I Corinthians 7.  This whole discussion on marriage is interesting. Paul is not opposed to marriage but there is a certain tension in this chapter. He is genuinely concerned about those who marry and have families. There is the whole issue of not being totally and completely dedicated to God (because they are also dedicated to their spouse and children) but there is also a present distress that exists and may get worse. At that time in Corinth, there was definite pressure being put on the Jews and increasing pressure on the new Christians. We know from reading history that intense persecution is on the horizon. Living in stable societies, rarely do we think much about the effect of persecution, warfare, and oppression on families. Paul was very right; those who were married with children would in fact suffer more. They would worry more about the safety and welfare of their children and it would be more difficult for them to pick up their lives and flee. It was only fifteen years after Paul wrote this letter that Jerusalem was destroyed. What did the families do in such circumstances? I can't help but think about the fate of families in more recent conflicts-Iran, Syria, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Nigeria, and Sudan.  Spend some time in prayer for families across the globe who are dealing with warfare and persecution. But there is another element in this chapter I want to try to address.  Paul writes in v. 29-31, What I mean, brothers and sisters, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they do not; those who mourn, as if they did not; those who are happy, as if they were not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep; those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away.   There is definitely a sense that something is about to come to pass.  Is Paul speaking about Jesus' second coming?  So, I did a little digging.  It does appear that the event Paul is referring to is the coming of Christ.  Bringing this up would have been incredible encouragement to the Corinthians.  Because when Jesus comes the present form of this world will pass away and there will be a resurrection of believers.  Think about it...if we thought that Jesus would return this week, and we knew that everything would change, that the Kingdom of God would become real and palpable and that all things would be made new, that would definitely change our perspective.  The ordinary and familiar of Monday would feel totally different because we knew it was temporary.  Paul is asking the Corinthians to think this way.  Of course, two thousand years later, we know that Jesus hasn't come and the world has not changed.  But what would it be like for us to live with that perspective that Paul encourages?  Maybe we don't worry so much about our present burdens and the everyday habits of life.  Maybe we see everything through the lens of the coming Kingdom of God.  What if we saw values, politics, relationships, and justice through the lens of the Kingdom?  How would that change things for us? Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Daily Dose of Hope January 30, 2026   Scripture: I Corinthians 6   Prayer:  Lord Jesus, We come before you this morning, thanking you for a new day.  Lord, you are good and we rejoice in your holy and powerful name.  As we begin our day, Lord, help us focus on you.  Help us set aside our scattered thoughts and focus on your Word and what you want us to learn today.  We get so distracted and self-consumed.  Forgive us for that, Lord.  In these next few moments of silence, help us have laser focus on your voice... In Your Powerful Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We have been journeying through Paul's letters.  Today, we are continuing through our fourth pastoral letter, I Corinthians. Today's reading is I Corinthians 6.  Paul continues to press this issue: Jesus-followers should look different than the culture around them. Why were they allowing secular courts to decide issues that should have been worked out in the church? Why were they getting pulled into disputes that distracted them from the mission in the first place? And then Paul presents a list of wrongdoings which have no place in the church. He is imploring them, "You know better!" You've been washed by the blood of Jesus Christ. You are different now, new creations, so behave like it. The second half of the chapter is the discussion about sexual misconduct in the church.  Some of the Christians in Corinth were saying they had been freed from the law and now could do whatever they wanted.  Remember, this was a very sexualized society.  People from the church were still having sex with prostitutes and they were saying it was no big deal.  Afterall, they weren't living under the law. Paul says that you were freed from the Law to love God and love others.    But the issue went deeper.  The Corinthians were kind of like, "eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we may die."  They thought that their bodies were temporary and eventually God would be doing away with them, so who cares if they have some casual sex?  It's just biology, just our bodies, right?  Not our souls.  So, what's the big deal?  Well, Paul tells them what the big deal is.   The Corinthians believed in the immortality of the soul. But Christians believe in the resurrection of the body. Because the resurrection of the body is a core doctrine of the Christian faith, we take a very high view of the human body. Paul reminds them of this. The human body is sacred.  God created you, God values you.  We firmly believe that our soul and physical body are interconnected, we can't just separate the two so easily.    This is what Paul is saying:  You can't have sex with someone and not become one flesh with them.  You can't separate body and soul. Sex is not just biology; there's something deeply spiritual about it.  Souls are connecting with one another.  I read this and it feels like Paul is in parent-mode. He is telling the Corinthians to remember who and whose they are! He even tells them he is ashamed of them.  Two thousand years is a long time and yet people are still people. We aren't any better today; I do hope everyone realizes that. Yes, we think we are quite sophisticated. We think we are quite knowledgeable. But, just like the Corinthians, we still forget what it means to belong to Jesus. We still allow the values and temptations of the world to seep into our lives. How often we blend so neatly into the world around us. How often have you believed the same lies that the Corinthians believed? Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope January 29, 2026   Scripture: I Corinthians 5   Prayer:  Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours, now and forever. Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently journeying through Paul's letters.  Right now, we are working our way through I Corinthians.   A significant problem in the church of Corinth was both sexual immorality and sexual deviancy, which simply underscored their shallow discipleship. Corinth was a port town that was home to the Temple of Aphrodite, a pagan temple with many, many prostitutes. Sexual immorality was rampant and almost a way of life in the city. To say that Corinth was a very sexualized society would be a massive understatement.  It's estimated that one in every thirty people were prostitutes. You really see this when you visit there.  It touches every area of their culture.  So, it isn't surprising that the church was dealing with it.  What the culture deals with seeps into the church and the church is tasked with figuring out how to deal with it based on God's truth. The apostle Paul was trying to develop a holy church, based on commitment to Jesus rather than the pagan gods and ways of being. We see the struggles over these first few chapters.   In chapter five, today's reading, Paul addresses a case of incest in the church, specifically a man sleeping with his father's wife (presumably his stepmother). While this might have been acceptable in Corinthian society, it is absolutely deplorable among God's people. This kind of behavior was forbidden in the Torah and that translated into the church. The people of Jesus were also supposed to seek holiness and sexual morality was part of that. They are the body of Christ.   The issue isn't just the incest – yes, that is really bad – but it's that there are no boundaries whatsoever for sexual behavior.  And they are bringing those values, or lack thereof, into the church.  God's people have to call sin what it is and recognize it as a problem.  So, there was that.  Paul is appalled - why does this not bother them?  Their arrogance is hard to take.   Let's be real. This is just as much as issue in today's church as it was 2000 years ago in Corinth. Why don't we behave like the body of Christ, holy and blameless? We tolerate all kinds of stuff!  Do we demonstrate the same kind of arrogance and complacence? Certainly something to think about.   I do want to at least touch on what Paul says at the very end of the chapter, verses 12-13, What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. "Expel the wicked person from among you."  Basically, Christians are not called to judge those outside the church.  If someone is not a Christ-follower, then we can't hold them to the same standards.  They don't know any better really.  But, those inside the church have to be held accountable.  Paul is holding the Corinthians responsible for not dealing with the man having sex with his stepmother.  That kind of sinfulness has no place in Jesus' church.    Now, if someone committed a sin and then was repentant, that would be a different story.  Afterall, Jesus gives us all second chances and third chances and fourth chances.  If someone is serious about forgiveness and wants to change, then the church welcomes them.  If they are arrogant and refusing to change, that's when church accountability has to occur.    We struggle with this.  Accountability in general is something we struggle with in our culture.  What if this same situation were to happen at New Hope?  It would be uncomfortable and awkward but I couldn't, as the pastor, allow this man to sit in the pew with his arm draped around his stepmom for all to see.    What other situations might also require a response?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Daily Dose of Hope January 28, 2026   Scripture: I Corinthians 4   Prayer:  Almighty Father, Thank you that your mercies are new every morning.  Thank you, that no matter what this week has held, we can come to you and start over.  We are grateful for your forgiveness.  We are so very grateful for your care and your love.  Help us, Lord, to set aside our distractions, to set aside our scattered thoughts and focus on you right now.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, hear our prayers...  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently journeying through Paul's letters.  Right now, we are working our way through I Corinthians. Today's reading was I Corinthians 4.  You have to love the apostle Paul's sarcasm! He has really had it with the Corinthian church's arrogance. You see, they think they are mature, healthy, and effective. They think they have arrived. But Paul is making it quite clear: No, you have not! Why? Because they are worldly in their thinking, they are full of themselves, they have no desire to make sacrifices or suffer. They are comfortable, concerned more about status, popularity, and reputation than about serving Jesus. This passage is always convicting for me.  How mature are we?  What would Paul think of us?  Are we willing to make sacrifices for our faith or are we more concerned with comfort?  Paul makes this interesting argument that a servant is not greater than his master. The Corinthians clearly think they are better. Jesus said in Matthew 16:25,"For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it." Part of the Christian experience is giving up one's life, one's wants, one's desires, and even one's comfort, basically the things of this world, in exchange for the things of Jesus. What things of this world might you still be holding onto? If you were to be brutally honest with yourself, can you relate to the Corinthians? Spend some time in prayer about this today. How might God be speaking to you through this chapter? Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope January 27, 2026   Scripture: I Corinthians 3   Prayer:  Almighty God, Search our hearts today.  Show us those places that we need to change.  Show us where we aren't fully devoted to you and your Kingdom.  Lord, we need your wisdom and guidance.  On our own, we falter and drift.  Lord, we want to know you more.  We want to be a living example of your love and holiness.  Help us, Jesus.  Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently journeying through Paul's pastoral letters, chronologically.  Thus far, we have read through Galatians, I Thessalonians, and II Thessalonians.  We are currently in I Corinthians.    Today's reading was I Corinthians 3. Paul continues to have harsh words for the Christ-followers at Corinth. They think they live by the Spirit, but Paul tells them they actually are still living by worldly standards. He had to teach them like babies in the faith; they lack maturity. They are drinking milk rather than being able to eat solid food.  One example of this is their view of Christian leadership. They see leadership as focusing on an individual, that person having a following, pitting one person again another. In a sense, they view Christian leadership as a popularity contest. Paul makes the case that there are no individual superstars in Christian leadership. Different people have different tasks at different times. Some people plant, some people water, and others harvest. One task is not better or more important than another. They are all necessary for expanding God's Kingdom. My own experience is that Christian leadership has to be rooted in humility. The way our churches are structured doesn't always lend itself to this so we have to be very, very intentional.  I know I have to very, very intentional.  Ministry isn't about me as a pastor, it's always about Jesus and what he desires for his church. Jesus is of course our ultimate example of leadership. As a servant leader, he washed dirty feet, touched lepers, and ultimately gave up his life for those he led. No superstardom there, just a lot of rolling up sleeves, getting dirty, and experiencing sacrifice.   We find a beautiful example of Christian leadership in Philippians 2:5-8: In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Daily Dose of Hope January 26, 2026   Scripture: I Corinthians 2   Prayer:  Holy God, We come to you today with expectancy.  We need to hear your voice.  We need to feel your presence.  Lord Jesus, we know that we are weak.  Our lives are incomplete and empty without you.  Our world is nothing without you.  Help us go through this day remembering that we belong to you.  With your Spirit in us, we have power.  With your Spirit in us, we can be bold and courageous.  We give you our day, Lord.  Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We are currently working our way through Paul's pastoral letters.  We are currently in I Corinthians.   Today we read I Corinthians 2.  Paul begins the chapter by reminding the Corinthians about how he preached and taught when he was with them.  He wasn't arrogant, using language they didn't understand.  He very intentionally approached them with humility.  His message was, "Jesus Christ crucified" and he delivered it plain and simple.  He didn't need to adorn the message and make it fancy, he kept it straightforward so that it would be the power of the Spirit that they heard.  Paul said this so that the Corinthians could not base their faith on some kind of skillful teaching or human wisdom, but only on the Holy Spirit.   Paul then rebukes the Corinthians who seek the wisdom of the world.  Faith involves a great deal of wisdom, but it's the wisdom of God.  They don't understand it because they are still immature in the faith.    You can probably sense it from the reading, but Paul is highly frustrated with the church at Corinth. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, they have access to the mind of Christ. Paul is saying that even though they are believers who have received the Spirit, they are beginning to behave like unbelievers.   Just for some background, Corinth was very much a troubled church. They were dealing with sexuality immorality, tremendous conflict (they were suing each other in civil courts), and abuse of spiritual gifts.  As we get further into the book, we will talk more about their abuse of the Eucharist, or communion.  Those who were wealthy would eat and drink first, having communion together, getting full and getting drunk.  When the poor came to the table, there would be nothing left.  Not surprisingly, Paul found this reprehensible.   How easy it is for Christians to say yes to Jesus but then sit back and not grow. There is also the temptation to slip into comfortable, easy Christianity (an oxymoron if ever there was one). The reality is in our culture and society, a person can profess faith in Jesus, go to church, go through the motions, but never know the mind of Christ. How critical it is to unite with other believers who will encourage us to grow and challenge us to live in the Spirit.   Do you have the mind of Christ? Do we have the mind of Christ as a body of believers? What will it take for us to get there?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Daily Dose of Hope January 23, 2026   Scripture: I Corinthians 1   Prayer:  Abba Father, You are the potter, we are the clay, and the work of Your hands. Mold us and fashion us into the image of Jesus, your Son. Father, may we be one in You as He is in You, and You are in Him. Glory and praise to you, forever and ever. Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We have been journeying through Paul's letters.  Today, we are starting our fourth pastoral letter, I Corinthians.   Let's start by talking a little bit about Corinth.  It was a Greek city, about forty-five miles from Athens.  It was highly prosperous but also known for its immorality.  We read about Paul's time in Corinth in Acts 18 during his second missionary journey.  It's in Corinth that Paul meets Priscilla and Aquila, fellow tentmakers and believers.  He started his time there by preaching in the synagogues but the Jews were generally not responsive.  That led Paul to begin to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles in the area.  And he was very successful.  Thus, the church in Corinth included both Jews and Gentiles.  Paul stayed with the Corinthians for roughly a year and a half.  During that time, there were some Jews who brought charges against Paul for his teachings.  The discord continued after he left.  Thus, the Corinthians church was dealing with these outside pressures, as well as serious internal discord and immorality.  Paul stayed in touch with them through letters.  We have two of these letters (there were probably others) in the New Testament.   In this first chapter of I Corinthians, we immediately notice this is a letter. Paul starts by identifying himself as the author and makes it clear that the recipients are those in the church at Corinth. After a brief expression of thanksgiving, Paul wastes no time at getting to a most pressing point. There is disunity in the church. Factions have emerged over who to follow. Some say they follow Paul, others say Apollos or Cephas, and some say Christ.   We don't know the details of the disagreements, or how the factions came about. Really, I don't think the fine points are that relevant. What's more interesting to me is how Paul handles the situation. He reminds them who and whose they are. He reinforces the mission. We get so distracted by our own egos and allegiances; the mission is what suffers. The mission is sharing the Gospel, spreading the Good News of Jesus.   Let's fast forward 2000 years. How often have we as individual Christ-followers and as a church gotten off track because of disagreements with other Christians? Think about people you have personally known who have left a church because they got mad about something. Conflicts over individual personalities, music styles, bruised egos, miscommunication, or even the color of the new carpet, can totally derail a church from the true mission! What if we just had laser focus on Jesus? What if the mission trumped everything else? How might that change things?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

In this message by Pastor Dobbs, he ministers from I Corinthians 15:58 and James 1:8 on whether a believer is dogged or double minded. He encourages a believer to be dogged in their choices to obey the Lord for their labor is not in vain for those who carry out the will of God. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. James 1:8 - he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

In this message by Pastor Dobbs, he ministers from I Corinthians 15:58 and James 1:8 on whether a believer is dogged or double minded. He encourages a believer to be dogged in their choices to obey the Lord for their labor is not in vain for those who carry out the will of God. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. James 1:8 - he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. Hit the notification bell so that you do not miss our most recent video. From your mobile device, to sow a financial seed into the ministry you may visit us at occvr.org and click the menu tab to locate the donate button. The donate button will provide two options for online giving. You may utilize “Text To Give” in which you will text “give” to the phone number 770-692-2225 to setup your monthly gift or one time financial gift. The additional method for online giving is simply click on the paypal “donate” button. Thanks to our generous partners in ministry, we are able to continue spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with our local and foreign outreach ministries. For further information on Overcomers Christian Center including address, service times, and other information please visit occvr.org. Also you may visit us at the following: Facebook: @occvr Podcast: The Overcomers

Connecting is Episode 3 (Season 3) of “Songs In The Night.” Connecting with one another is truly vital to our lives. Listen as Kathleen shares inspiration through scripture and music about restoring our connections.Please subscribe so you can be notified when the next episode is available.* Please support this podcast through downloads at KathleenFowle.com.* Contributions please: Buy Me A Coffee (thank you).* Newsletter: SubscribePage.io/KFM.Scripture: I Corinthians 13 | Poem: Love by Stella Kennedy SalisburyAll music and content ℗©Two by Two Express (ASCAP) All Rights Reserved. International Copyright Secured. Music: I Have Found, Songs in the Night Theme. Get full access to Joy In The Morning at kathleenfowle.substack.com/subscribe

Scripture:  I Corinthians 2:1-16The Pulse ExperienceSermon:  The Mind Of Christ Part 1Pastor Jay MaceSunday, October 5, 2025https://linktr.ee/thepulsewinfield

Sister Myeshia Cain ministered from I Corinthians 15:8 on the importance of a dogged pastor being in covenant with God. The Holy Spirit seals the covenant and the oil of the Spirit keeps us going forward. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:8 - Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time. Hit the notification bell so that you do not miss our most recent video. From your mobile device, to sow a financial seed into the ministry you may visit us at occvr.org and click the menu tab to locate the donate button. The donate button will provide two options for online giving. You may utilize “Text To Give” in which you will text “give” to the phone number 770-692-2225 to setup your monthly gift or one time financial gift. The additional method for online giving is simply click on the paypal “donate” button. Thanks to our generous partners in ministry, we are able to continue spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with our local and foreign outreach ministries. For further information on Overcomers Christian Center including address, service times, and other information please visit occvr.org. Also you may visit us at the following: Facebook: @occvr Podcast: The Overcomers

Sister Myeshia Cain ministered from I Corinthians 15:8 on the importance of a dogged pastor being in covenant with God. The Holy Spirit seals the covenant and the oil of the Spirit keeps us going forward. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:8 - Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time.

In this teaching by Pastor Dobbs, he ministers from I Corinthians 15:57-58, His teaching focuses on how God gives us the victory despite the obstacles that we face. Enjoy this podcast and learn how God gives us the victory. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:57-58 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

In this teaching by Pastor Dobbs, he ministers from I Corinthians 15:57-58, His teaching focuses on how God gives us the victory despite the obstacles that we face. Enjoy this podcast and learn how God gives us the victory. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:57-58 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. Hit the notification bell so that you do not miss our most recent video. From your mobile device, to sow a financial seed into the ministry you may visit us at occvr.org and click the menu tab to locate the donate button. The donate button will provide two options for online giving. You may utilize “Text To Give” in which you will text “give” to the phone number 770-692-2225 to setup your monthly gift or one time financial gift. The additional method for online giving is simply click on the paypal “donate” button. Thanks to our generous partners in ministry, we are able to continue spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with our local and foreign outreach ministries. For further information on Overcomers Christian Center including address, service times, and other information please visit occvr.org. Also you may visit us at the following: Facebook: @occvr Podcast: The Overcomers

Scripture:  I Corinthians 3:1-2, James 1:16-27, James 2:14-19The Pulse ExperienceTopic: Grow UpSpeaker: Luke MaceSunday, June 1, 2025https://linktr.ee/thepulsewinfield

Apostle Jerry Boykin of Bethlehem Temple Church Of A New Beginning ministered from I Corinthians 15:58 on a dogged church must be determined but not defeated in our Spring Revival for 2025. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. Hit the notification bell so that you do not miss our most recent video. From your mobile device, to sow a financial seed into the ministry you may visit us at occvr.org and click the menu tab to locate the donate button. The donate button will provide two options for online giving. You may utilize “Text To Give” in which you will text “give” to the phone number 770-692-2225 to setup your monthly gift or one time financial gift. The additional method for online giving is simply click on the paypal “donate” button. Thanks to our generous partners in ministry, we are able to continue spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with our local and foreign outreach ministries. For further information on Overcomers Christian Center including address, service times, and other information please visit occvr.org. Also you may visit us at the following: Facebook: @occvr Podcast: The Overcomers

Apostle Jerry Boykin of Bethlehem Temple Church Of A New Beginning ministered from I Corinthians 15:58 on a dogged church must be determined but not defeated in our Spring Revival for 2025. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. Join us online: OCCVR.org

In this message by Pastor Randy Cleveland of Word First Ministries, he ministers from I Corinthians 15:58 on being dogged assistance in our Pastor's Aide program. Two of the main traits he ministers about are to be faithful and fruitful. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. Join us online: OCCVR.org

In this message by Pastor Randy Cleveland of Word First Ministries, he ministers from I Corinthians 15:58 on being dogged assistance in our Pastor's Aide program. Two of the main traits he ministers about are to be faithful and fruitful. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. Hit the notification bell so that you do not miss our most recent video. From your mobile device, to sow a financial seed into the ministry you may visit us at occvr.org and click the menu tab to locate the donate button. The donate button will provide two options for online giving. You may utilize “Text To Give” in which you will text “give” to the phone number 770-692-2225 to setup your monthly gift or one time financial gift. The additional method for online giving is simply click on the paypal “donate” button. Thanks to our generous partners in ministry, we are able to continue spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with our local and foreign outreach ministries. For further information on Overcomers Christian Center including address, service times, and other information please visit occvr.org. Also you may visit us at the following: Facebook: @occvr Podcast: The Overcomers

Scripture: I Corinthians 15:33, I Thessalonians 5:22, Matthew 5:16, Psalm 1:1The Pulse WV LiveA Network That Beats To The Heart Of GodTopic: Where You Hang Out Draws A CrowdHost: Pastor John FowlerThursday, February 20, 2025https://linktr.ee/thepulsewv

Scripture: I Corinthians 16:13, Psalm 55:22, James 1:2-3, Romans 8:28The Pulse WV LiveA Network That Beats To The Heart Of God.Topic:  A Spiritual PotholeHost: Pastor John FowlerThursday, January 16, 2025https://linktr.ee/thepulsewv

In this message, Pastor Dobbs ministers from I Corinthians 15:58 on the importance of being grateful for God's church. In this message, he also comes from Matthew 16:18 on the fact that God said He would build His church. Let us make sure we are a part of "His" church. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. Join us online: OCCVR.org

In this message, Pastor Dobbs ministers from I Corinthians 15:58 on the importance of being grateful for God's church. In this message, he also comes from Matthew 16:18 on the fact that God said He would build His church. Let us make sure we are a part of "His" church. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. Hit the notification bell so that you do not miss our most recent video. From your mobile device, to sow a financial seed into the ministry you may visit us at occvr.org and click the menu tab to locate the donate button. The donate button will provide two options for online giving. You may utilize “Text To Give” in which you will text “give” to the phone number 770-692-2225 to setup your monthly gift or one time financial gift. The additional method for online giving is simply click on the paypal “donate” button. Thanks to our generous partners in ministry, we are able to continue spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with our local and foreign outreach ministries. For further information on Overcomers Christian Center including address, service times, and other information please visit occvr.org. Also you may visit us at the following: Facebook: @occvr Podcast: The Overcomers

In this message on New Year's Eve, Pastor Dobbs ministers from I Corinthians 15:58 on how the church needs to be dogged: steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:58- “58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” Hit the notification bell so that you do not miss our most recent video. From your mobile device, to sow a financial seed into the ministry you may visit us at occvr.org and click the menu tab to locate the donate button. The donate button will provide two options for online giving. You may utilize “Text To Give” in which you will text “give” to the phone number 770-692-2225 to setup your monthly gift or one time financial gift. The additional method for online giving is simply click on the paypal “donate” button. Thanks to our generous partners in ministry, we are able to continue spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with our local and foreign outreach ministries. For further information on Overcomers Christian Center including address, service times, and other information please visit occvr.org. Also you may visit us at the following: Facebook: @occvr Podcast: The Overcomers

In this message on New Year's Eve, Pastor Dobbs ministers from I Corinthians 15:58 on how the church needs to be dogged: steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. Scripture: I Corinthians 15:58- “58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” Join us online: OCCVR.org

Scripture: I Corinthians 12:31, Galatians 5:6, II Samuel 21:1-2, Genesis 4:1-26, II Timothy 3:16-17, Isaiah 53:5, I Peter 2:24, II Kings 1:1-18, John 4:1-54, Luke 9:52-56, Genesis 18:26, Psalm 51:10-11, Ezekiel 36:26, I Peter 2:24, Romans 12:3, Galatians 2:20, Colossians 2:9-10, Joshua 24:15A Network That Beats To The Heart Of GodTopic: A Better Way-Part 2-ConnectHost: John Sandy & Cynthia SandySunday, December 1, 2024https://linktr.ee/thepulsewv

Scripture: I Corinthians 12:31, Galatians 5:6, II Samuel 21:1-2, Genesis 4:1-26, II Timothy 3:16-17, Isaiah 53:5, I Peter 2:24, II Kings 1:1-18, John 4:1-54, Luke 9:52-56, Genesis 18:26, Psalm 51:10-11, Ezekiel 36:26, I Peter 2:24, Romans 12:3, Galatians 2:20, Colossians 2:9-10, Joshua 24:15A Network That Beats To The Heart Of GodTopic: A Better Way-Part 1-ConnectHost: John Sandy & Cynthia SandySunday, November 24, 2024https://linktr.ee/thepulsewv

Scripture: I Corinthians 2:16, John 6:63-65, John 4:35-36, Acts 16:30-31, Matthew 6:33, Psalm 37:4The Pulse WV LiveA Network That Beats To The Heart Of GodTopic: Faith Demands Results Part 2Host: John Sandy Monday, September 23, 2024For Booking Information: 304-364-4164Email: john@thepulsechurch.comThere Are Three Ways to Financially Support the Pulse-GassawayPayPal:https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick...Text:https://app.clovergive.com/app/giving/thepulse/THEPULSEGASSAWAYWVMail: P.O. Box 141 Gassaway, WV 26624Check us out on social media and our website.Website:www.thepulsechurch.comLinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/in/john-fowler-mba-16247231Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thepulsewv/https://www.facebook.com/718582154980548/YouTube:https://www.YouTube.com/@thepulsegassaway3388https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpGXhf2uE9oSMh961HaKJogTik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thepulsewvlive?lang=ru-RUhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thepulsegassawayTwitch:https://twitch.tv/the_pulse_wvInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thepulsegassaway/Twitter:https://twitter.com/thepulsewvApple Podcast:https://thepulsewv-gassaway.simplecast.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/.../the-pulse-wv.../id1527607059Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/4YZljk4BeOmao9KAo7NYn6...https://open.spotify.com/show/7pbbpIgE2Spzqdmd982w2c...Google Play:https://podcasts.google.com/.../aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5zaW1wb...https://podcasts.google.com/.../aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5zaW1wb...Radio Public:Sermons:https://radiopublic.com/the-pulse-wv-WemdAJPodcast:https://radiopublic.com/the-pulse-wv-live-GymVAJDeezer:Sermons:https://Deezer.com/show/3055022Podcast:https://Deezer.com/show/3053812I Heart Radio:Sermons:https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-pulse-wv-87312929...Podcast:https://www.iheart.com/.../269-the-pulse-wv-live-87312874...Amazon Music:Sermons:https://music.amazon.com/.../22dca9f0-25f7.../the-pulse-wvPodcast:https://music.amazon.com/.../fe8c94c7.../the-pulse-wv-live

Scripture: I Corinthians 2:16, John 6:63-65, John 4:35-36, Acts 16:30-31, Matthew 6:33, Psalm 37:4The Pulse-ConnectA Network That Beats To The Heart Of GodTopic: Faith Demands Respect Part 2Host: John Sandy & Cynthia SandySunday, July 21, 2024For Booking Information: 304-364-4164Email: john@thepulsechurch.comThere Are Three Ways to Financially Support the Pulse-GassawayPayPal:https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick...Text:https://app.clovergive.com/app/giving/thepulse/THEPULSEGASSAWAYWVMail: P.O. Box 141 Gassaway, WV 26624Check us out on social media and our website.Website:www.thepulsechurch.comLinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/in/john-fowler-mba-16247231Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thepulsewv/https://www.facebook.com/718582154980548/YouTube:https://www.YouTube.com/@thepulsegassaway3388https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpGXhf2uE9oSMh961HaKJogTik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thepulsewvlive?lang=ru-RUhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thepulsegassawayTwitch:https://twitch.tv/the_pulse_wvInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thepulsegassaway/Twitter:https://twitter.com/thepulsewvApple Podcast:https://thepulsewv-gassaway.simplecast.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/.../the-pulse-wv.../id1527607059Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/4YZljk4BeOmao9KAo7NYn6...https://open.spotify.com/show/7pbbpIgE2Spzqdmd982w2c...Google Play:https://podcasts.google.com/.../aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5zaW1wb...https://podcasts.google.com/.../aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5zaW1wb...Radio Public:Sermons:https://radiopublic.com/the-pulse-wv-WemdAJPodcast:https://radiopublic.com/the-pulse-wv-live-GymVAJDeezer:Sermons:https://Deezer.com/show/3055022Podcast:https://Deezer.com/show/3053812I Heart Radio:Sermons:https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-pulse-wv-87312929...Podcast:https://www.iheart.com/.../269-the-pulse-wv-live-87312874...Amazon Music:Sermons:https://music.amazon.com/.../22dca9f0-25f7.../the-pulse-wvPodcast:https://music.amazon.com/.../fe8c94c7.../the-pulse-wv-live

Scripture: I Corinthians 13:13, I Corinthians 13:1-8, Matthew 7:21-24, Matthew 6:1, Ephesians 3:20, I Corinthians 12:8-11, Galatians 5:22-23, I Corinthians 13:13The Pulse WV LiveA Network That Beats To The Heart Of GodTopic: God Is Looking For A People Who Are Looking For Him Part 4Host: John Sandy & Pastor John FowlerMonday, June 24, 2024For Booking Information: 304-364-4164Email: john@thepulsechurch.comThere Are Three Ways to Financially Support the Pulse-GassawayPayPal:https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick...Text:https://app.clovergive.com/app/giving/thepulse/THEPULSEGASSAWAYWVMail: P.O. Box 141 Gassaway, WV 26624Check us out on social media and our website.Website:www.thepulsechurch.comLinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/in/john-fowler-mba-16247231Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thepulsewv/https://www.facebook.com/718582154980548/YouTube:https://www.YouTube.com/@thepulsegassaway3388https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpGXhf2uE9oSMh961HaKJogTik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thepulsewvlive?lang=ru-RUhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thepulsegassawayTwitch:https://twitch.tv/the_pulse_wvInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thepulsegassaway/Twitter:https://twitter.com/thepulsewvApple Podcast:https://thepulsewv-gassaway.simplecast.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/.../the-pulse-wv.../id1527607059Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/4YZljk4BeOmao9KAo7NYn6...https://open.spotify.com/show/7pbbpIgE2Spzqdmd982w2c...Google Play:https://podcasts.google.com/.../aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5zaW1wb...https://podcasts.google.com/.../aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5zaW1wb...Radio Public:Sermons:https://radiopublic.com/the-pulse-wv-WemdAJPodcast:https://radiopublic.com/the-pulse-wv-live-GymVAJDeezer:Sermons:https://Deezer.com/show/3055022Podcast:https://Deezer.com/show/3053812I Heart Radio:Sermons:https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-pulse-wv-87312929...Podcast:https://www.iheart.com/.../269-the-pulse-wv-live-87312874...Amazon Music:Sermons:https://music.amazon.com/.../22dca9f0-25f7.../the-pulse-wvPodcast:https://music.amazon.com/.../fe8c94c7.../the-pulse-wv-live

It's Self-Brain Surgery Saturday!We're learning a new way to pray and learn to use our minds to change our brains, and help us seek the abundance and peace Jesus promised us in John 10:10! Today, we take the ABIDE practice one level deeper, and learn a self-brain surgery operation that will help us become healthier, feel better, and be happier in any area of our lives. Neuroscience and faith smash together hard in this one!Remember the ABIDE prayer/meditation practice:Level I (Hearing):ApproachBreatheInviteDependExperienceLevel II (Self-Brain Surgery Practice):AssessBelieveIncisionDeepenExpectPodcast Mentioned: Theology in the Raw with my friend Dr. Preston Sprinkle. Here's a link to my appearance on his show last year. Scripture: I Corinthians 2:16, Ephesians 4, Luke 22:39Book Mentioned: How God Changes Your Brain by Andrew Newberg and Mark WaldmanMusic by:(Music shared on The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast is authorized under BMI license #61063253 and ASCAP license #400010513 )SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: The Spiritual Brain Surgery Podcast is now live everywhere! Please consider listening and subscribing by clicking one of the links below!Spiritual Brain Surgery on AppleSpiritual Brain Surgery on SpotifySpiritual Brain Surgery on AmazonMusic by Carl Miner and The North American Guitar Company(Music shared on The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast is authorized under BMI license #61063253 and ASCAP license #400010513 )Leave a voicemail with your question or comment! (00:01) - Introduction to Self-Brain Surgery (02:33) - Exploring Contemplative Prayer (04:13) - Revisiting the Abide Method (08:25) - Self-Brain Surgery School (08:36) - Importance of Intentional Prayer Habits (17:57) - Developing Neural Circuits Through Practice (19:52) - Attaining the Fullness of Christ's Mind (23:24) - Contrasting Mindsets (33:39) - The Path to Abundance (40:04) - Self-Brain Surgery Practice (41:15) - Expecting Good Outcomes (44:45) - Structural Brain Changes (45:23) - Changing Our Mind, Changing Our Life

Your Brain Has Two Halves, and They See the World Very DifferentlyLearning to integrate what you see from both sides of your brain is a key to becoming healthier, feeling better, and being happier. It turns out that the Bible has a lot to say about that too.Scripture: I Corinthians 2:15-15, II Corinthians 3:18, I Corinthians 13:12, Ephesians 1:18-23, Romans 1:19-20 Leave a voicemail with your question or comment!Five Ways You Can Support this show:Pray for us!Subscribe, like, and share it with your friends! (We even have a YouTube channel!)Leave reviews and comments wherever you listen to podcasts!You can become a paid partner of the podcast and get special bonus episodes and lots more content by clicking here. Visit one of our affiliate partners and consider using their products (we use them every day):Improve your gut health, immune system, and protect your brain with Pique!Other Helpful Links:Click here to access the Hope Is the First Dose playlist of hopeful, healing songs!Be sure to check out my new book, Hope Is the First Dose!Here's a free 5-day Bible study on YouVersion/BibleApp based on my new book!Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here!All recent episodes with transcripts are available here! (00:02) - Introduction to Theology Thursday (02:14) - Exploring German Words for Knowledge (07:07) - Understanding the Right Brain (10:50) - The Mind of Christ and Neuroplasticity (14:16) - Seeing God's Creation with Both Brain Hemispheres (18:24) - Using the Eyes of Your Heart (19:57) - Embracing the Whole Brain Approach (21:28) - Conclusion and Book Recommendation

What do Valentine's Day, Particle Physics, and Lent Have to Do With Each Other?Check out today's Wildcard Wednesday episode to find out!Be sure to follow The Faith Filled Therapist on Instagram!Check out my friend Jon Swanson's new podcast, Finding Words in Hard Times!Scripture: I Corinthians 13, I John 4:18Music by Brandon Heath(Music shared on The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast is authorized under BMI license #61063253 and ASCAP license #400010513 ) Remember the ABIDE prayer/meditation practice:Level I (Hearing):ApproachBreatheInviteDependExperienceLevel II (Self-Brain Surgery Practice):AssessBelieveIncisionDeepenExpectDon't forget: The Spiritual Brain Surgery Podcast is now live everywhere! Please consider listening and subscribing by clicking one of the links below!Spiritual Brain Surgery on AppleSpiritual Brain Surgery on SpotifySpiritual Brain Surgery on AmazonLeave a voicemail with your question or comment!Five Ways You Can Support this show:Pray for us!Subscribe, like, and share it with your friends! (We even have a YouTube channel!)Leave reviews and comments wherever you listen to podcasts!You can become a paid partner of the podcast and get special bonus episodes and lots more content by clicking here. Visit one of our affiliate partners and consider using their products (we use them every day):Support and boost your immune system with Armra! Use DRLEEWARREN code at checkout for a discount!Improve your gut health, immune system, and protect your brain with Pique!Other Helpful Links:Click here to access the Hope Is the First Dose playlist of hopeful, healing songs!Be sure to check out my new book, Hope Is the First Dose!Here's a free 5-day Bible study on YouVersion/BibleApp based on my new book!Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here!All recent episodes with transcripts are available here! (00:03) - Introducing Valentine's Day and the Start of Lent (00:53) - Linking Valentine's Day, Lent, and Hope for Redemption (01:44) - Welcome to Self-Brain Surgery School (02:17) - Explaining the concept of particle accelerators (03:00) - Practical applications of particle accelerators in everyday life (04:27) - Colliding science and faith: unlocking the energy within us (08:41) - Focusing on how we want to be and transforming our minds (09:24) - Oxytocin and cortisol: the connection between love and fear (11:21) - The power of perfect love in casting out fear (12:10) - Lent: Smashing Fear with Perfect Love (16:28) - Introducing "Hope is the First Dose" - Recovery Plan

It's Mind Change Monday!Here are three crucial decisions you need to change your mind about, starting today. Scripture:I Corinthians 10:13Isaiah 44:22Isaiah 46:10(Adapted from Season 5, Episode 100, Mind Change Monday #2)Music by Tommy Walker(Music shared on The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast is authorized under BMI license #61063253 and ASCAP license #400010513 )You can become a paid partner of the podcast and get special bonus episodes and lots more content by clicking here. Support and boost your immune system with Armra! Use DRLEEWARREN code at checkout for a discount!Improve your gut health, immune system, and protect your brain with Pique!We have a YouTube Channel! Click here to subscribe.PLEASE SUBSCRIBE to the show wherever you listen!Click here to access the Hope Is the First Dose playlist of hopeful, healing songs!Be sure to check out my new book, Hope Is the First Dose!Here's a free 5-day Bible study on YouVersion/BibleApp based on my new book!Sign up for my weekly Self-Brain Surgery Newsletter here! (00:02) - Mind Change Monday Introduction (01:07) - Are You Ready to Change Your Life? (01:57) - False Teaching: God Won't Give You More Than You Can Handle (04:06) - God's Promise: Opportunity to Escape Temptation (06:10) - Some Things You Can't Handle Alone (10:58) - The Struggles and Redemption of Life (12:33) - Finding Comfort in God's Knowledge of the Future (24:42) - Introducing "Hope is the First Dose" - Recovery Plan

In this episode, Host Chae Cole speaks on getting out of the box on many different fronts. It's vital that we don't approach life from a narrow point of view and think that the local problems represent global problems. Additionally, we can't be afraid to innovate for the kingdom of God and be comfortable with how God wants to use us. Finally, we have to get out of our church box to understand and empathize with people who don't have a revelation of Christ. This episode provides a guide to help you get comfortable with getting out of the box. Scripture: I Corinthians 9:19 NKJV - For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more;  Album: https://music.apple.com/us/album/chae-cole-pk-present-overtime/1696330918  https://open.spotify.com/album/7vtbisskhZzqvKydodd0oo?si=O2eqhspWT_2g0wOGv4Pn4Q  Host: Chae Cole   Instagram: @Coletherapy   Tik Tok: @Coletherapy   Email: therapycole@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/coletherapy/support

Community building can be a struggle, but for those born into the Kingdom … we are birthed, inspired and led by the Holy Spirit. We are one!   Scripture: I Corinthians 12

It's Mind Change Monday!Here are three crucial ideas you need to change your mind about, starting today. Scripture:I Corinthians 10:13Isaiah 44:22Isaiah 46:10Click the button below to access the Hope Is the First Dose playlist of hopeful, healing songs!Hope PlaylistMusic by Tommy Walker(Music shared on The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast is authorized under BMI license #61063253 and ASCAP license #400010513 )Be sure to check out my new book, Hope Is the First Dose!Here's a free 5-day Bible study on YouVersion/BibleApp based on my new book!

It's Mind Change Monday!Here are three crucial decisions you need to change your mind about, starting today. Scripture:I Corinthians 10:13Isaiah 44:22Isaiah 46:10Music by Tommy Walker(Note: There are options to sign up for free, or to become a paid subscriber in this link. The normal newsletter will always be free!) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit drleewarren.substack.com/subscribe

It's Mind Change Monday!Here are three crucial decisions you need to change your mind about, starting today. Scripture:I Corinthians 10:13Isaiah 44:22Isaiah 46:10Music by Tommy WalkerYou can sign up for my Substack letter here.(Note: There are options to sign up for free, or to become a paid subscriber in this link. The normal newsletter will always be free!)(Music shared on The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast is authorized under BMI license #61063253 and ASCAP license #400010513 )Go to my website www.wleewarrenmd.com for more information about my letter, this show, my books, and more.John to Know, James to Grow bible study This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit drleewarren.substack.com/subscribe

It's Mind Change Monday! Here are three crucial decisions you need to change your mind about, starting today.  Scripture: I Corinthians 10:13 Isaiah 44:22 Isaiah 46:10 Music by Tommy Walker   You can sign up for my Substack letter here. (Note: There are options to sign up for free, or to become a paid subscriber in this link. The normal newsletter will always be free!)   (Music shared on The Dr. Lee Warren Podcast is authorized under BMI license #61063253 and ASCAP license #400010513 )   Go to my website www.wleewarrenmd.com for more information about my letter, this show, my books, and more.   John to Know, James to Grow bible study