Podcasts about scriptures

In this raw and urgent episode, Ryan and Selena respond directly to a viral clip from Dr. Emerson Eggerichs (Love & Respect) where he calls out wives who “continually mock their husbands,” put them down mentally, and secretly make fun of their opinions.If you've ever caught yourself thinking, “He's just not the man I thought I married” … this episode is for you.We dive deep into:The devastating long-term fruit of a disrespectful speech and a critical spirit (Prov 21:19, Prov 27:15)Why even “small” condescending comments, eye-rolls, and corrections are spiritual poisonGenesis 1–2 and Ephesians 5:22–33 – God's original design for husbands to WORK and wives to RESPECTThe moment a wife stops seeing her husband “in his element,” her view of him becomes dangerously incompleteThe 4 C's every wife must confront: What are you Consuming? Who are you Consulting? Who are you Complaining to? It's time to CUT it out.The 200-year plan: How today's sarcasm and discontent become tomorrow's bitterness, affairs, or divorcePractical steps to break the cycle: Repent to God → Repent to your husband → Replace criticism with gratitude → Renew your mind daily (Romans 12:2)Husbands: this isn't permission to be passive. A wife's biblical respect flows most naturally when her husband loves her as Christ loves the church. We talk about that too.Whether you're the wife struggling with disrespect or the husband feeling crushed under constant criticism—this episode will challenge and encourage you toward the fierce, gospel-centered marriage you both long for.Scriptures covered: Genesis 1–2, Ephesians 5:22–33, Proverbs 21:19, Proverbs 27:15–16, Romans 12:1–2Resources mentioned: → Join the Fierce Men brotherhood (YouTube + private community)→ Fierce Fellows on Patreon – exclusive marriage content→ Partner with Fierce Marriage: https://fiercemarriage.com/partnerIf this episode hit home, text it to a friend who needs it. Leave a rating/review—it truly helps more couples find biblical hope.Have a question? Call or text 971-333-1120 — we may answer it on the air!#ChristianMarriage #RespectYourHusband #Ephesians5 #LoveAndRespect #StopNagging #BiblicalWife #FierceMarriage

For many, Christmas comes wrapped not only in lights and celebration, but also in financial pressure. The desire to give generously can collide painfully with a budget that simply won’t stretch far enough. And in a culture where extravagant Christmas mornings dominate social media feeds, it’s easy to feel inadequate or ashamed when the gifts under the tree look different than we wished. Vivian Bricker speaks honestly into this tension, reminding us that the heart of Christmas has nothing to do with what we can buy and everything to do with the One we worship. Somewhere along the way, many of us have absorbed the idea that Christmas requires excess. But the gospel reminds us that Christmas began in simplicity — a manger, a small town, a humble family, and a Savior who came quietly into the world. A meaningful Christmas does not require money. It requires Jesus. If finances are tight this year, remember: Christmas joy is not dependent on the number of gifts under the tree. Homemade, thoughtful gifts often carry more love than anything store-bought. God never measures love by financial ability. The people who love you most want you, not what you can give. And above all, Scripture calls us to shift our focus:“Seek first his kingdom… and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33). When we place Christ at the center, financial pressure loses its power. Instead of comparing, striving, or stressing, we are freed to worship, to give from the heart, and to celebrate what truly matters. Today's Bible Reading:“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33 Takeaway Truths Your financial limitations do not diminish your love or your worth. Christmas is not about purchasing power — it’s about the presence of Christ. Homemade or simple gifts can be meaningful expressions of love. God promises provision when we seek Him first. A simple Christmas can often be the most spiritually rich. Let's Pray Dear Jesus, Christmas feels a bit tight this year, and I’m struggling with feelings of guilt, fear, and inadequacy. Remind me that these feelings do not come from You. Help me remember that the purpose of Christmas has never been about gifts, spending, or trying to keep up with others. Teach me to embrace simplicity. Help me find joy in making homemade gifts or offering thoughtful gestures, even if they look different from years past. Calm my heart, silence comparison, and center my mind on Your goodness. Bring my focus back to You — the true reason for the season. Fill my heart with peace, gratitude, and confidence that You will provide everything I truly need. Thank You for being my source, my security, and my Savior. Amen. Scriptures for Further Reflection Matthew 6:25–32 Philippians 4:19 James 1:17 Psalm 23:1 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Share a commentWho really belongs to Abraham's family—those with the right ancestry, or those with the right faith? We follow Paul's lead and ask a simple question that cuts through centuries of argument: what do the Scriptures say? From Romans 4 to Galatians 3, the promise to Abraham narrows to a single point of focus—the Seed—and widens to welcome the nations through faith in Jesus Christ.We explore the historical rise of Islam, from Muhammad's early claims and adoption of Jewish forms to the later pivot toward Mecca and distinctive rites. That backdrop sets the stage for a frank, respectful comparison of core doctrines: the identity of God, the person of Jesus, and the cross. When Christ's crucifixion and resurrection are denied, the gospel itself is removed. When Christ is confessed as the promised Seed, Abraham's blessing becomes a living reality, not a contested storyline. This is more than religious trivia; it is the hinge of assurance. Abraham believed God was able to perform what he promised, and that same assurance rests on the finished work of Christ.We also turn the lens on ourselves. Respect for Muslim neighbors must be real—patient listening, clear words, genuine friendship. Recognition must be firm—Allah is not Elohim, and the Jesus of the Quran is not the Jesus of the Bible. And rededication must be practical—recovering habits of prayer, fasting, public witness, and heartfelt worship that match our message. Passion without truth misleads, but truth without passion misrepresents. Abraham's true heirs are those who trust the Son, and their lives should carry the sound of that promise kept.If this conversation helps you think more clearly and live more boldly, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review to help others find the show.Support the showStephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

“Forever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.” (Psalm 119:89) Most who read the Bible regularly are probably familiar with these sweeping statements from the Scriptures. ... More...

Share a commentWho really belongs to Abraham's family—those with the right ancestry, or those with the right faith? We follow Paul's lead and ask a simple question that cuts through centuries of argument: what do the Scriptures say? From Romans 4 to Galatians 3, the promise to Abraham narrows to a single point of focus—the Seed—and widens to welcome the nations through faith in Jesus Christ.We explore the historical rise of Islam, from Muhammad's early claims and adoption of Jewish forms to the later pivot toward Mecca and distinctive rites. That backdrop sets the stage for a frank, respectful comparison of core doctrines: the identity of God, the person of Jesus, and the cross. When Christ's crucifixion and resurrection are denied, the gospel itself is removed. When Christ is confessed as the promised Seed, Abraham's blessing becomes a living reality, not a contested storyline. This is more than religious trivia; it is the hinge of assurance. Abraham believed God was able to perform what he promised, and that same assurance rests on the finished work of Christ.We also turn the lens on ourselves. Respect for Muslim neighbors must be real—patient listening, clear words, genuine friendship. Recognition must be firm—Allah is not Elohim, and the Jesus of the Quran is not the Jesus of the Bible. And rededication must be practical—recovering habits of prayer, fasting, public witness, and heartfelt worship that match our message. Passion without truth misleads, but truth without passion misrepresents. Abraham's true heirs are those who trust the Son, and their lives should carry the sound of that promise kept.If this conversation helps you think more clearly and live more boldly, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review to help others find the show.Support the showStephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

I am so excited to welcome back my dear friend Jennifer Watson, who originally joined us back on episode 42 with her book Freedom. Today, she's back to talk about her brand-new book,What If You're Doing Better Than You Think? Finding Courage and Confidence When Life Gets Messy—and wow, is this message timely as we head into the fast, chaotic holiday season.Jennifer is a writer, podcaster, mama of two adult daughters, and a passionate advocate for mental health and real-life faith. In this powerful and honest conversation, we talk about what it really looks like to walk through depression, seasonal struggles, shame spirals, counseling, community, and the courage it takes to ask for help.✨ In This Episode, We Talk About: • Why mental health struggles are inevitable in a chaotic world • The dangerous cycle of the shame spiral • Jennifer's personal journey with seasonal depression and seeking medical help • Why getting help is not weakness—it's bravery • How the church can better support mental health • The power of community and counseling • Walking with children and teens through anxiety and depression • Writing from the messy middle, not just the healed place • Why women need spaces that go deeper than small talk • Scriptures that anchored Jennifer in her darkest seasons • A gentle but powerful truth: You are doing better than you think.This episode is full of hope for anyone who feels like they're barely holding it together—and a reminder that you might be doing so much better than you think.Bio:Jennifer Renee Watson is a fierce advocate for mental health and abuse survivors who are bravely healing from unresolved trauma and finding their voice. She is the cohost of the More Than Small Talk Podcast, and has spoken at churches and conferences all over the US. Anchor Verses:Psalm 34:18Isaiah 40:31Connect with Jennifer:Website: www.jenniferreneewatson.comFB: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferwatson/IG: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferwatson/***We love hearing from you! Your reviews help our podcast community and keep these important conversations going. If this episode inspired you, challenged you, or gave you a fresh perspective, we'd be so grateful if you'd take a moment to leave a review. Just head to Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen and share your thoughts—it's a simple way to make a big impact!*** 

Keywords: Genesis,Book of Genesis,Revival, Character Of God,Free Sermons, Video Sermons, Jesus Christ, What Is The Gospel, Sermon Index, What Is The Truth, kjv bible, Audio Bible, Bible, God, God's Love, Scriptures, Holy Bible, Prophets, Apostles, KJV, Jesus,Christ, audiobook, book, holy life, love, bible verses, king james bible audio, audio bible KJV, king james bible online audio, bible audio, online bible kjv, audio bible kjv, daily bible verse, bible verse of the day, KJV audio, Remastered, Best Version, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit, Holy Ghost, The Chosen, Salvation, Saved, Christian, Suffering Servant, Arm of the Lord, Plants Roots, Despised Rejected, Sorrows, Peace War, Crucifixtion, The Cross, Violence, Judgement, Master Servant, Life Death, Old Testament, Exposed, Music, Education, Great Tribulation, Top Bible Verses, Bible Topic Prayer, Evangelicalism, bible study, Word of God, scripture, scriptures, Matthew Henry's biblical commentary, bible commentary, Matthew Henry commentary, God's Word, Matthew Henry, studying the Bible, understanding the Bible, God, Father, Son, Holy Spirit, Spiritual, Hope, Jesus Answers Prayer, Answers to Prayer, Prayer, Pray, God Answers Prayer⚠️ Support our ministry: https://ko-fi.com/jesusanswersprayers❓️ How does this chapter apply to you?

Advent E1 — Over the next four weeks, we'll be exploring the four key words associated with the Advent season: hope, peace, joy, and love, starting with hope. The Hebrew words often translated as “hope,” yakhal and qavah, are rooted in images of waiting and being stretched, like a cord pulled tight. From Noah waiting for the flood waters to recede, to Israel longing for God's loyal love, to Jesus followers ultimate hope in the new creation, the Bible presents hope as an active trust in God's character. In this episode, Jon and Tim explore how the biblical story reframes hope as active waiting, a practice that keeps us moving toward God's promises.FULL SHOW NOTESFor chapter-by-chapter notes including summaries, referenced Scriptures, biblical words, and reflection questions, check out the full show notes for this episode.CHAPTERSYakhal, a Waiting Hope (0:00–11:26)Qavah, a Stretching Hope (11:26–24:10)Biblical Hope vs. Optimism (24:10–27:47)Reflections on Hope With Dylan (27:47-32:50)OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPTView this episode's official transcript.REFERENCED RESOURCESThe Hebrew and Aramaic Lexicon of the Old Testament by Ludwig Koehler and Walter BaumgartnerThe Life of Moses and Homilies on the Song of Songs by Gregory of NyssaThe Last Battle by C.S. LewisYakhal / Hope: Though not referenced directly in the episode, this 2017 video explores the same biblical words, yakhal and qavah.Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here.SHOW MUSIC“Home For Christmas” by Lofi Sunday & Cassidy Godwin“That Gospel ft. Bobcat” by Lofi Sunday“Snowflakes” by AvesBibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITSProduction of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who also edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Special thanks to our guest Dylan Menges. Powered and distributed by Simplecast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As Magnify women, through life's many and varied adventures, we hold tight to the Lord's promise in D&C 122:7 "that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good." We've learned that one of the ways we reap from this goodness is in how we can turn around and share what we've learned with others and help them along their path. Our lives become a collection of opportunities and testimony of moments that we can pull from later to be of service to each other.  Maria Eckersley, is here to share how three women in scripture show us how the Lord constantly prepares us to be part of His great work, giving us opportunities to care for each other as our Savior would. Even if we can't tell in the moment, we can trust that He has equipped us to step forward in His strength.   Maria is a multi-hyphenate gatherer of goodness from being a devoted fun mom to mega party planning to gospel teaching tips in the home. She is a mom to six amazing kids and grandma to three darling grandsons. Notes:  Hear more from Maria on the Magnify podcast:  5 Questions to Illuminate Women in the Scriptures

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Romans 5-8 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible, where we gather together each day to journey through the Scriptures and warm our hearts by the fires of God's love. On this very first day of December, your host Hunter invites you to reflect on how far we've come this year as we near the completion of reading the entire Bible together. In today's episode, Hunter guides us through Romans chapters 5 to 8, exploring profound truths about grace, hope, and freedom found in Christ. We'll be reminded that our faith isn't about tallying pages read, but about encountering Jesus—the very heart and purpose of God's Word. Together, we'll consider the depth of our human need, the purpose of the law, and the unparalleled gift of God's inseparable love. Take a moment to breathe, pray, and remember: you are loved. Join us as we continue this journey, encourage one another, and let God's joy be our strength. TODAY'S DEVOTION: We are so far from home. All of humanity is lost. It was lost in the garden—lost to the self, lost to sin, lost because of Satan, lost because of a lie. We are so very lost, far more lost than we ever knew. That is why God has given us the law. Sin is so deceptive that it minimizes our plight. We are blind to how lost we are, but the law opens our eyes and shows us just how far from home we truly are. God gave us his word to open our eyes, to prepare us to see and understand the living Word—the Logos, the incarnate Son of God. He is the telos—the point, the purpose, the complete exposition of who God is and who we are in God. Humanity wasn't made for the law. The law was made for us. Humanity was made for God. The law isn't the point—God is the point. Our life in God is what Jesus has come to demonstrate and to make possible for everyone. My prayer is that I will see the blessing of the law, its intent and purpose, and that I will let the law point me to the one I was made for: Jesus. He is the telos. He is the purpose and the point. He has come to reveal himself to you and to the whole world, that we might be set free, that we might be found, that we might come home. May God open our eyes to see him. That's the prayer I have for my own soul. That's the prayer I have for my family: my wife, my daughters, and my son. And that's the prayer I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: And now let us pray. Lord of heaven and earth, you have awakened us in your mercy once more. Still our anxious minds, quiet our striving hearts, and help us to rest in the knowledge that we are held by you. May we walk in step with your spirit today—not ahead, not behind, but beside you in trust and love through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. O God of all peoples, you formed every soul in your image and breathed life into every heart. Open the eyes of the nations, soften hearts grown cold, and teach us to live as neighbors and friends. Let your spirit move in power, renew the face of the earth, and usher in your reign of peace. Amen. And now, Lord, let me be a bearer of your peace. Where voices divide, let me speak grace. Where fear takes root, let me plant trust. Where the world rushes on, let me walk with you. May I seek not to climb, but to kneel; not to win, but to love; not to grasp, but to give. For it is in emptying that we are filled, in surrender that we are strengthened, and in union with you that we find our truest joy. Amen. And now, as our Lord has taught us, we are bold to pray: Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Hope for Right Now Podcast – Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series, Zechariah While Walking with Purpose founder Lisa takes time to write our next women's Bible study, Laura is keeping the Hope for Right Now podcast going strong with a four-week series: Trust in the Impossible: An Advent Series. Advent is meant to be a time of interior reflection—the weeks we prepare our hearts and homes to receive the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. But with the secular world's demands and distractions, keeping our eyes on what matters can be challenging, and the season of quiet we dream about feels impossible. What if this Advent, we said no to the overwhelm of the secular world and yes to the overshadowing of the Spirit? Each week, Laura introduces a Biblical figure from the gospel of Luke, whose story reveals the secret to a simple, peace-filled Advent—one where we yield to God's will, respond in faith, and trust in the impossible.   Today's Biblical figure: Zechariah. Discover how Jesus is so close to us, and that even when we give up on our impossible prayers, we can be assured that God never does.  Open your Heart to our key Scripture. Luke 1:5–20 Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode. Luke 1:35: And the angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God.” Matthew 17:5: He was still speaking, when behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” Exodus 40:34–35: Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter the tent of the meeting, because the cloud abode upon it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. Exodus 25:20: The cherubim shall spread out their wings above, overshadowing the mercy seat with their wings. Daniel 8:16–9:21 Romans 8:24–25: Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we have hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. (ESV) Invite Him in with this episode's questions for reflection. What circumstance overwhelms you this time of year? Bring it to God in prayer, especially in the moments after you receive Him in the Eucharist. Do not rush out of Mass. If possible, stay for fifteen minutes in the quiet, thanking God and praying for the impossible. Show mentions. Our presenting sponsor is CB Jewelry. Faith is beautiful—and it's your best accessory. CB Jewelry's stunning and stylish pieces are not your grandma's jewelry. These pieces are modern, beautiful, and the perfect way to share your faith. Whether you're looking for a meaningful Christmas gift or a new way to express your faith, CB Jewelry has you covered. Use the code Hopefornow, (all one word at checkout) for free shipping and a portion of your purchase will go to Walking with Purpose. Offer ends December 25, 2025! Shop CB Jewelry today at cbjewelryfaith.com. Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity Catechism of the Catholic Church 1377 Elizabeth Scalia, The Word on Fire Bible  Let's stay connected. Don't miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform.  Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community. Stay in the know. Connect with us today.  We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ. Learn more about WWP on our website. Our shop. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Advent invites us to slow down, quiet our hearts, and prepare for the coming of Christ.In this guided Christian meditation, you’ll reflect on Scripture and rest in God’s peace as you anticipate the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Be Still: Advent Meditations for Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love helps you create space in this busy season to experience the presence of Christ and the peace He brings. Download your FREE Advent Guide here. The first week of Advent, we focus on hope—the hope we have because Jesus came once and the hope we hold because He will come again.In Psalm 62, David reminds his own soul to rest and trust in God alone. As you meditate on these verses, you’ll be invited to do the same—to find rest, peace, and renewed hope in the God who keeps His promises. Because this season can be hectic, I’ll release a short guided prayer each Wednesday during Advent to help you pause midweek and stay grounded in God’s peace. If you loved the music this week, it was used by permission of the artist Simon Wester. You can find more of his excellent music on Spotify here. Helpful Links:Download your FREE companion journal for Advent here.This beautiful guide includes:• All the Scriptures for this series• Weekly reflection prompts• Space to record what God is revealing to you Additional links: You can find out more about me, Jodie, at http://www.jodieniznik.com/ Follow me on Instagram @jodieniznik Follow me on Facebook @JodieGNiznik Learn more about Scripture meditation and download a FREE Guided Scripture Meditation Journal here. Join my Monday email newsletter here, where I send links to the newest meditation every Monday morning. Find out more about my partner, Life Audio, at lifeaudio.com. Download FREE sample chapters from my Bible studies here. Meditation Scripture: Psalm 62:5–8 (NIV) 5 Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.6 Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.7 My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.8 Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Send us a textDownload study notes for this chapter.Download study notes for this entire book.**********Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version ®, NIV ® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved worldwide.The “NIV”, “New International Version”, “Biblica”, “International Bible Society” and the Biblica Logo are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.  Used with permission.BIBLICA, THE INTERNATIONAL BIBLE SOCIETY, provides God's Word to people through Bible translation & Bible publishing, and Bible engagement in Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and North America. Through its worldwide reach, Biblica engages people with God's Word so that their lives are transformed through a relationship with Jesus Christ.Support the show

In this powerful conversation with Nathan Johnson, we explore how all of Scripture—from Genesis to Revelation—points to Jesus Christ. From the types and shadows in the Law and Prophets to the prophecies, feasts, and even geography, we see Christ revealed again and again. As the Living Word, He is not only the fulfillment of the Old Testament but also its very heartbeat. May our hearts burn within us, as on the road to Emmaus, as we behold the wonder of Jesus in all of God's Word.Nathan Johnson has a passion to help equip Christians to understand the Word of God and experience a deep love for Jesus that transforms their lives and the world around them. He teaches full-time at Ellerslie Discipleship Training and creates Christ-centered Bible teaching and resources on his website deeperChristian.com.Want to go deeper in studying this command of Christ? Download a free study guide at https://homediscipleship.comStudy guide includes: Scriptures referenced in podcastReview of Old Testament contextGuide for Scripture meditationQuestions for application and prayerFor more information, visit us at https://homediscipleship.comFind us on Facebook and Instagram @homediscipleshiphttps://www.facebook.com/homediscipleshipnetworkhttps://www.instagram.com/homediscipleshipnetwork

The history of stress started in 1936. Now, a little less than a century later, according to the "experts," stress is responsible for every mental and medical problem under the sun. Is this true? The problem might be that we are believing the "experts" more than God's Word. It is the negative things we believe about stress that cause it to be detrimental to our well-being, not stress itself. Stress is a challenge, but it is not a threat. Stress, if viewed rightly, is meant to be beneficial. 

What are Heresies, and what are Errors? How can we tell what is the right doctrine from the Scriptures? Join Pastors Mitch and Craig as they kick off the holidays by examining why correct doctrine is so important to the life of every Christian.

This first Advent message brings us into the quiet longing of Zechariah and Elizabeth—two faithful servants of God who lived many years with unanswered prayers. Their story invites us to slow down, think biblically about waiting, and recognize the tender ways God prepares His people in His perfect timing. If you've ever carried a long prayer, or wondered what God is doing in the quieter seasons of life, this message will give fresh comfort and hope.

In this next episode of our series, we dive into the reality of fear - its power to paralyze and stagnate life, and the way it can creep into every area of our journey. Yet, the presence of Jesus is the key to breaking free and walking boldly. We will learn how God's love can cast out our fears.Join Prophet Annor as he unpacks the truth about overcoming fear and concludes with a powerful prayer. We believe this episode will bless and strengthen you!Scriptures : 1 Samuel 17:4 | Romans 8:31 | Numbers 20:7-8 | 2 Timothy 1:7 | John 3:16-------------------------------Subscribe and share this podcast with your family and friends.Have questions? Send us an email via info@icgcholyghosttemple.org, and we will be glad to assist you.

Join us for a special guest sermon by our Prestoncrest member Paul Conway on building better relationships through the image of Christ Jesus. Let us increase our value as we grow into the grace of our savior. Scriptures mentioned: James 1: 19-20, Mark 10: 13-14,Subscribe to PRESTONCREST - with Gordon Dabbs on Soundwise

Download Keynote Slides Colossians 1:12, Always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the  inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light.   1 Thessalonians 5:18, In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you In this message, Pastor Bryan Hudson, DMin. teaches that thanksgiving is far more than a holiday—it is a foundational posture for a victorious Christian life. Drawing from Colossians 1:12, 1 Thessalonians 5:18, and other Scriptures, he explains that giving thanks is evidence of the inheritance God has placed within us and a continual practice that renews our minds, stabilizes our emotions, and keeps our hearts clear. Like the peace offerings in Leviticus—voluntary, heartfelt, and spontaneous—true thanksgiving flows from love, not obligation. Using the redwood tree's shared root system as an illustration, he shows that believers are rooted together in Christ and strengthened through collective gratitude. Pastor Hudson warns that withholding thanks leads to darkened thinking, while a lifestyle of gratitude brings joy, peace, and spiritual resilience even amid trials. Ultimately, giving thanks is a continual offering, the “fruit of our lips,” that keeps us in God's presence (coram Deo) and grounds our identity as accepted, blessed people who live in the light.

Click For Today’s Audio Or Read the Passage Here CoffeeTime Video Devotional Check out the CoffeeTime Video Devo on YouTube with Pastor Miles, on YouTube. Helpful Resources Enduring Word Commentary with Pastor David Guzik Read the Scriptures at Blue Letter Bible Download the Blue Letter Bible App For iOS or Android Additional Daily Devotionals My […]

Who knew a Galilean fisherman could be so elegant?Monday • 12/1/2025 •Monday of the First Week of Advent, Year Two  This morning's Scriptures are: Psalm 1; Psalm 2; Psalm 3; Amos 2:6–16; 2 Peter 1:1–11; Matthew 21:1–11 This morning's Canticles are: following the OT reading, Canticle 9 (“The First Song of Isaiah,” Isaiah 12:2–6, BCP, p. 86); following the Epistle reading, Canticle 19 (“The Song of the Redeemed,” Revelation 15:3–4, BCP, p. 94)

Keywords: Genesis,Book of Genesis,Revival, Character Of God,Free Sermons, Video Sermons, Jesus Christ, What Is The Gospel, Sermon Index, What Is The Truth, kjv bible, Audio Bible, Bible, God, God's Love, Scriptures, Holy Bible, Prophets, Apostles, KJV, Jesus,Christ, audiobook, book, holy life, love, bible verses, king james bible audio, audio bible KJV, king james bible online audio, bible audio, online bible kjv, audio bible kjv, daily bible verse, bible verse of the day, KJV audio, Remastered, Best Version, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit, Holy Ghost, The Chosen, Salvation, Saved, Christian, Suffering Servant, Arm of the Lord, Plants Roots, Despised Rejected, Sorrows, Peace War, Crucifixtion, The Cross, Violence, Judgement, Master Servant, Life Death, Old Testament, Exposed, Music, Education, Great Tribulation, Top Bible Verses, Bible Topic Prayer, Evangelicalism, bible study, Word of God, scripture, scriptures, Matthew Henry's biblical commentary, bible commentary, Matthew Henry commentary, God's Word, Matthew Henry, studying the Bible, understanding the Bible, God, Father, Son, Holy Spirit, Spiritual, Hope, Jesus Answers Prayer, Answers to Prayer, Prayer, Pray, God Answers Prayer⚠️ Support our ministry: https://ko-fi.com/jesusanswersprayers❓️ How does this chapter apply to you?

Expositional style teaching on the book of Romans CH 1:27-28 that will continue expounding on some of the overarching impacts associated with immorality. This teaching will explore why the natural affection ordained by God is absolute and should be championed by the people of God without compromise. We will review the institution of marriage, and look at the unique terms used for man and women within our text, discuss various potential penalties that comes with immoral acts against the body, and discuss what is meant by having a debased mind according to the Scriptures. Taught by Assistant Pastor Mac at Calvary Kaneohe Hawaii.

Pastor Mac provides an expositional style teaching on the book of Romans CH 1:27-28 that will continue expounding on some of the overarching impacts associated with immorality.  This teaching will explore why the natural affection ordained by God is absolute and should be championed by the people of God without compromise.  We will review the institution of marriage, and look at the unique terms used for men and women within our text, discuss various potential penalties that comes with immoral acts against the body, and discuss what is meant by having a debased mind according to the Scriptures.Social MediaMobile & TV Apps: https://subsplash.com/calvarychapelkaneohe/appProphecy Website: http://jdfarag.orgChurch Website: http://www.calvarychapelkaneohe.comX: https://x.com/JDFaragFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/JDFaragInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/JDFarag

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Romans 1-4 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome, friends, to the Daily Radio Bible podcast! On this 30th day of November—day 335 in our journey through the Scriptures—Hunter invites us into an epic exploration through Romans chapters 1 to 4. Today's episode is all about discovering what it means to be made right with God, not by keeping the law, but through faith—just as Abraham did. Whether you're listening for spiritual encouragement or wanting to deepen your understanding of Scripture, Hunter walks with us through Paul's powerful message of grace, reminding us that God's love and truth are at the heart of our faith. With prayer, reflection, and encouragement, this episode is sure to warm your heart and inspire your journey. So grab your Bible, settle in, and let's let the words of life guide us together! TODAY'S DEVOTION: Join the expedition. Paul is taking us on a beautiful, epic, amazing expedition. On a visit to Moses and Abraham. Paul says that they both point us to the Gospel of grace. Moses and the prophets show us a way to be made right with God. And it's not about keeping the law, which is completely contrary to what most people thought during his time. He wasn't trying to make us law abiding people. He was seeking to make humanity new with the laws that are written inside of our hearts. Not law abiding people, but God abiding people. And it's kind of the same today. So many Christians still think that it's about becoming law abiding. When the Gospel clearly proclaims that it is God who has come to abide with us in order that he might make us all new people. This is how God has made us right with himself. He's done the whole thing. Paul had an encounter with the person of Jesus and that changed everything. After meeting Jesus, he never read the Bible the same again. So that's my prayer for us every day when we come to the Scriptures. That we might encounter the God of love. The God who's come to us just as we are, to reveal Himself to us just as he is—full of grace and full of truth. And the prayer of my own heart today is that as we go on this adventure of faith, that as we look into the scriptures, we'll be able to see exactly what they're saying, that they are not the point. Moses and the prophets are not the point, but they do indeed point us to the source of life, the one alone who has made us right with the Father. That's the prayer that I have for my own soul. And that's the prayer that I have for my family. And that's the prayer that I have for you, dear friend. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Week 49 - Doctrine and Covenants 137-138: "I beheld that they were filled with joy and gladness, and were rejoicing together because the day of their deliverance was at hand."Please visit us at CFMpodcast.org

Because Christ has come, you should set your hope in Him.Advent Series Description: Advent is the season of the year when Christians reflect upon the coming of Jesus. Our Savior's lowly incarnation & birth at Christmastime was the fulfillment of prophetic hopes the Scriptures had been sounding for centuries. In this series, we explore four key prophetic passages that reveal Christ and point to the Advent themes of hope, peace, joy, and love.To begin the Advent season, we consider the prophecy of Isaiah 40:1-11, a passage that encourages us to set our hope on Christ. Because Christ has come, you should set your hope in Him.

To lament means to express sorrow, mourning, or regret; to grieve openly or to mourn aloud, and there is one entire book of the Bible most often ignored by our culture, obsessed with happiness and pleasure, called Lamentations. In this journey, we will explore the five poems contained in the book and allow the Scriptures to lead us to morning, healing, and hope as we navigate a world filled with pain and suffering. This week, we encounter Lamentations 4:1-22 ESV and how to navigate struggle when we feel stuck in the middle. Speaker: Michael Bayne Text: Lamentations 4:1-2,13-22 ESV

What do you do when God ends a business, a brand, or a season you thought would last forever?How do you know when it's time to shut something down and stop rebuilding what God has already demolished?In this powerful episode of Scriptures, Stories, & Strategies, we dive into Joshua 6:18–27 — the fall of Jericho — and what it teaches Christian entrepreneurs about business endings, divine redirection, and the danger of rebuilding something God has already declared finished.We'll explore:​why God commanded Jericho to be devoted to destruction​what the preserved family of Rahab teaches us about what to carry into the next business season​the curse over Jericho and its historical confirmation​signs that your business (or a part of it) is in its “Jericho season”​what to take with you into your next assignment — and what to leave behindIf you've been wrestling with closing a business, pivoting, rebranding, or releasing something that once worked but no longer carries God's grace… this one will set you free.Your next assignment can't begin until Jericho falls — and stays fallen.

Find the Gold — Pastor Jason Burns In this message, Pastor Jason explores the biblical call to honor and how it positions our hearts to receive the rewards God intends for us. From Jesus' experience in His hometown to the Scriptures' teaching on honoring authority, we see that honor isn't just about words but the posture of our hearts.

In the spiritual war all believers are engaged in, are you a casualty or a hero? Listen to this message to learn the importance of sentence structure in interpreting the Word of God. Hear the commands God gives us in dealing with the devil's attacks on us and how we are to use the armor provided. Always keep in mind that God's Word is sufficient for all our needs.

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Sermon OutlineGod's gift is the gift that keeps on giving far beyond Christmas. Advent is not about the past; it's about the future. It's all about the hope that shines in the darkness. When Jesus comes on that day to be glorified in his saints, and to be marveled at among all who have believed." 2 Thessalonians 1:10Four Things to awaken the soul for Christmas and make us marvel.The eternal God - God is and always wasExodus 3:14The Creator Visits - the eternal Creator entered His creation as the God-man Jesus Christ.John 1:11The Savior comes to give His life as a Ransom - Why He came to His creation.Mark 10:45The Giver of the Gift - The Right to become the children of God.John 1:12Sermon QuestionsHow can John 1:1-18 apply to both Advent and Christmas, to both the Incarnation and the Second Coming?How can both the immensity of God and the minuscule presence of God help us in the challenges in our lives?What happens when you both receive Jesus and believe in Jesus?What would be the "rights" that would be granted as a child of God to those who receive and believe?Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email John Burley ()..

This week Pastor Ryan shared from Genesis 2 and Psalm 63 about longings. Where do our longings originate and what if, once fulfilled, doesn't fulfill at all? He answers those questions in this episode.

Pastor Alex encouraged us how whole we can't always control what others do, but we can examine our own hearts. Let our lives be a testimony of what God is doing. When things get difficult, the first place to look is inward. As believers, self-examination is an essential part of our walk. Paul calls us to evaluate our faith, our motives, and our responses. When we examine ourselves, we give God room to transform us. Pastor Alex encouraged us to examine our walk with the Lord, our obedience, our mind, our words, and our hearts. What you speak reveals what's inside. Everything comes back to the heart. Surrender it fully to Him today. Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 13:5–6 Lamentations 3:40 1 John 2:6 Ephesians 5:15 Colossians 1:10 John 14:15 1 Samuel 15:22 Colossians 3:2 Isaiah 26:3 Philippians 4:8 Romans 12:2 Proverbs 18:21 Proverbs 13:3 Matthew 12:34, 36–37 James 3:10–12 Jeremiah 17:9 Matthew 15:17–20 Psalm 139:23–24

As we begin the Advent season, we remember that we are citizens, not the King. Too often we climb onto a throne that isn't ours, trying to rule our own lives. But Advent invites us to step down from the throne and let the King be King. When we shift our identity from king to citizen, we find the freedom, peace, and joy that come from living under the reign of the One who has come — and is coming again. Scriptures: 1 Timothy 6:13-16, 1 Corinthians 4:3-4, 2 Corinthianas 12: 7-10, Hebrews 4:15-16

Welcome to Week 2 of the God's Perfect Timing devotional. Advent begins long before Bethlehem. In this first week of Advent, we slow down and look at the earliest promises God spoke over a weary world. Before shepherds heard the angels sing, before Mary received her news, God was already preparing a story of redemption. If your heart feels stretched thin or you're carrying long-standing prayers, these passages offer steady hope. We'll take a gentle walk through Genesis, Isaiah, and Luke to see how God speaks into fear, meets His people in their longing, and invites us to trust His timing.

Hope isn't a mood we chase in December; it's a promise with a name. We open the season by looking through Mary's eyes, where an ordinary day collides with God's faithful word and changes the story for every family that follows. From the angel's announcement to the echoes of Isaiah and Matthew, we trace how a centuries-old promise becomes deeply personal—shaping how we pray, parent, give, and wait when the details don't make sense yet.Host Tosha Williams shares how this promise threads through Scripture and into our kitchens, commutes, and crowded schedules, and why the book of Galatians calls us heirs to something bigger than holiday tradition. We talk about trust that moves like Mary's “be it unto me according to your word," as we balance between the honest tension of slow answers and second guesses. Then we ground it in practice with a simple tradition inspired by the real Saint Nicholas: giving early “promise gifts” that point to Emmanuel. Think small, meaningful tokens paired with Scripture to remind the people in your care that God keeps His word and Christmas is coming.This conversation is devotion-driven and practical. You'll leave with questions to ask God this week, Scriptures to hold, and an easy way to share hope with your people. If you're craving a Christmas that feels less frantic and more faithful, this is your on-ramp to seeing promise in the middle of ordinary life and letting your everyday kindness whisper His faithfulness.Find the coordinating devotion-driven discipleship guide HERE.If this episode resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend this holiday season, and leave a quick review so others can find these conversations. Which of God's promises are YOU holding onto this week?______________________The Family Disciple Me ministry exists to catalyze devotion driven discipleship in our homes and around the world. We believe that discipleship starts with a conversation, and FDM provides free, easily-accessible, biblical resources to encourage these meaningful conversations along life's way. Sign up through our website to be "the first to know" about upcoming releases and resources (including the FDM App - coming soon!!!) You can also follow Family Disciple Me on social media. Family Disciple Me is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit ministry, and all donations are tax deductible. More information, blogs, statement of faith and contact info can be found at familydiscipleme.org

A part of the gospel story that is often treated as a simple transition between the crucifixion and the resurrection. Scripture shows it is far more significant. The burial of Jesus fulfills prophecy, demonstrates God's control over timing and events, and provides evidence that He is the promised Messiah. Sermon Notes Mark 15:42 Crucifixion happens on Day of Preparation before the Sabbath – that Sabbath was not Saturday Mark 15:43 Joseph of Arimathea gets enough courage to ask for the body of Jesus Mark 15:44 & 45 Making sure Jesus was dead, Pilate grants Joseph's request Mark 15:46 Joseph bought a linen sheet, wrapped Jesus' body in it and placed Him in a hewn out rock for a tomb and a stone was placed at the entrance Mark 15:47 Women observed where Jesus was buried so they could come back and properly bury Him Isaiah 53:9 Prophecy concerning the burial of the Messiah

✨ JOY UNSPEAKABLE — A MESSAGE THAT WILL LIFT YOUR SPIRIT ✨Joy isn't just an emotion… it's a process, a promise, and a power from God that carries you through every season of life. In this message, we explore what Scripture teaches about joy—real joy, the kind that can't be shaken by circumstances and isn't dictated by feelings.From the angels' announcement of great joy, to Mary's rejoicing, to Paul's unshakable joy in prison… the Bible shows us that joy is a supernatural posture available to every believer.In this message you'll learn:

Winning When You’re Tired, Anxious, and Under Attack Most Christians aren’t losing the battle because their faith is weak, they’re losing because their thought life is unprotected. In this episode, Jon exposes the real frontline of spiritual warfare: the mind. Anxiety, intrusive thoughts, burnout, comparison, and identity lies are not just emotional struggles, they’re spiritual attacks with mental symptoms. Jon walks you through how the enemy weaponizes your thoughts, how to tear down strongholds, and how to renew your mind with the Word of God so you can finally walk in clarity, confidence, and peace. If you’ve felt overwhelmed mentally, spiritually exhausted, or trapped in your own head, this episode gives you the tools, Scriptures, and Spirit-led truths you need to win the war for your mind and live the life of The Uncommon Christian. Your mind is a battlefield, and the enemy knows it. In this episode, Jon shows you how to defeat anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and spiritual exhaustion by taking back control of your thought life through the power of God’s Word and the renewing of your mind. This is the roadmap to winning the war in your head and walking in uncommon clarity and freedom.

Isaiah 9:1-7 The Need for Hope (v. 1) Gloom Distress Oppression The Nature of Hope (vv. 2-6) Light Joy Peace The Name of Hope (v. 7) His character Wonderful Counselor Mighty God Everlasting Father Prince of Peace His Crown A peaceful government A just government A forever government More to Consider Although Mt 4:16 applies the passage as a whole (vv. 27) to Jesus Christ by implication, the NT does not specifically apply to Him the names, or titles, listed in this verse. Some commentators believe Isaiah was describing a Judean ruler to come during his own time; thus, these names were applied to the reigns of Hezekiah, Josiah, and even Ahaz. But even if the names do not recur, as such, in the NT, they fit the ministry and messianic role of Jesus. As a Wonderful Counselor, He is a doer of miracles, wonders, and signs (Acts 2:22) who sends the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, to continue His work (Jn 14:26). Hailed as My Lord and my God (Jn 20:28) in His resurrection, Jesus has been given all authority in heaven and on earth (Mt 28:18). As one with the Father (Jn 10:30), He is eternalalive forever and ever (Rv 1:18). As a member of Davids royal line (Rm 1:3) He is the Prince who brings peace between Jew and non-Jew (Eph 2:14), whose rule over all kingdoms (Rv 1:5) brings an end to wars. Ted Cabal et al., The Apologetics Study Bible: Real Questions, Straight Answers, Stronger Faith (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2007), 1006. A time will come when gloom and darkness (8:22) will be a thing of the past. The gloom on the northern section of Israel came because of discipline. God humbled Zebulun and Naphtali for a while. Though Isaiah was probably using these two tribal names to represent the Northern Kingdom, it is striking that Jesus upbringing and early ministry was mostly in that very area near the Sea of Galilee. His presence certainly honored that area. In 732 b.c. this northern portion of Israel became an Assyrian province under Tiglath-Pileser III, thus humbling the people there and putting them in gloom. Under Gentile domination, that area was called Galilee of the Gentiles. John A. Martin, Isaiah, in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 1052. The celebration of Advent is possible only to those who are troubled in soul, who know themselves to be poor and imperfect, and who look forward to something greater to come. Dietrich Bonhoeffer God of hope, I look to you with an open heart and yearning spirit. During this Advent season, I will keep alert and awake, listening for your word and keeping to your precepts. My hope is in you. Matthew Kelly

Group Guide Use this guide to help your group discussion as you meet this week. TranscriptIf you will, grab a Bible and go to Acts chapter 17. It's our first week of our Give series. Recently, Starbucks released a barista cup and it's precious. That's it. That's the barista cup. There was an article about it in Forbes titled Starbucks Barista cup frenzy leaves big lessons for brands. So I just want to read the beginning of this article for you. It says the Starbucks barista cup caused a frenzy online and in stores. I don't exactly know what an online frenzy looks like, but that cup calls one. When Starbucks announced the release of limited edition holiday merchandise, including the bear shaped $29.95 glass cold cup, which you thought that the temperature of your cup was up to, you Incorrect. This is a cold cup. Actually, I think what it means is if you put hot coffee in it, you're going to burn your hand. So it's a cold cup. It says as part of their holiday menu, few people expected overnight queues in store brawls and a booming resale market. People camped out and fist fought each other. Then it says, beyond the surreal headlines, there are some valuable marketing lessons from the Starbucks bear cup drama. Starbucks barista cup has tapped into an undeniable human truth. I was on the edge of my seat reading this article. The barista cub has tapped into an undeniable human truth. And I had a lot of guesses, none of which prepared me for the answer. So here's the answer. People are obsessed with cuteness. Starbucks released 12 holiday items, but only one captured the public imagination. Cuteness is the primary explanation for the barista cup frenzy. Overnight cues, fist fights, cuteness, which makes a little bit of sense because you know you've seen like a baby so cute before that you punched its mother.I would argue that Forbes analysis is incomplete. Cuteness may have contributed, but I think there are other undeniable human truths at work here. You know, as a pastor, I'm going to float sin out there. I also think that one of the things that this indicates to us is the absolute human ability to, to get our priorities out of line, to misplace value in things. That if you're punching someone for a cup because of the cuteness, your value system is off. And it's a real danger that we're all in. I think when I read these, sometimes I think like I'll read and go, oh my goodness, laugh at it and think, that would never, I would never do that. But really what I'm saying is I would never do that for a bear shaped Starbucks cup. I just have other things I'm willing to punch you for. I have other things that I've misplaced value in. Like, it just should give us the undeniable human truth that we are able to get our priorities out of, out of line. We're able to misplace value. We're able to suddenly think that something is more important than it is and to spend our time and our energy and our money on it. And that that is one of the primary reasons that we have our Give season, our Give series every Christmas season is that we're going to be pushed and pulled in a million different directions and told repeatedly that certain things have value that do not. And we want to always take this time to consider what actually is valuable and are we sending our effort and our money in the right direction.So let's pray then we're going to start in on trying to figure this out together this morning. Lord, we ask for wisdom. We ask for discernment. We ask for the work of the Spirit to help us make correct valuations so that we do not waste our time and specifically for what we're talking about today, that we do not waste our money on things that have no real value. In Jesus name, Amen. Because of our ability to get this wrong, it's always very helpful for us when the Bible just tells us this has value, when it just steps in and explains to us this thing is valuable, it helps us know, okay, then that's something to pursue. That's something worth giving energy towards. I don't want to give away all of what we're doing in our Give series, but we're about to talk about Paul's missions efforts in the Book of Acts. So we're going to walk through. What we're going to do is walk through some of Paul's missionary journey, discuss it, see what's going on here, and then we're going to see something that's behind it, something that's at work in it that the passage doesn't talk about, but that we find out later as we read Paul's letter. So we're going to be in Acts chapter 17. We're going to watch Paul as he goes, who have just been in Philippi, in Acts 16, saw a few people converted to Christianity, got arrested and was beaten and then released. So he leaves. We're going to follow him as he goes to Thessalonica, Berea, and then on a boat down to Athens and then from Athens over to Corinth. And we're going to move pretty fast because It's a couple chapters of text, and we're just trying to follow along and see some of what's going on here.So. Acts, chapter 17, verse 1.> it says now, when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews. And Paul went in, as was his custom. And on three Sabbath days, he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and rise from the dead, saying, this Jesus, whom I proclaim to you, is the Christ.So part of Paul's missionary strategy was when he went to a city, if there was a synagogue, he went to the synagogue because they were going to be studying the Scriptures. And so he would go and start showing them in the Scriptures that Jesus had fulfilled the promises of the Messiah. It's one of the things that we do around Christmas time. We read some of these passages like we read earlier, and we see that Jesus is the fulfillment of the promises made to the Jewish people that he is their Messiah. And that's what he's doing. He's saying, the Christ has come. Jesus has fulfilled this. And he does this for three weeks every Sabbath day. And some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a great many of the devout Greeks and not a few of the leading women. But the Jews were jealous. And that's where it goes into. After that verse, it's going to talk to us about. As people start to believe, some of the people in the area begin to fight against Paul. They actually attack them. And Paul and Silas sneak out at night. And so they were only there for a couple of weeks. They're seeing people believe and they're run out of town. So let's pick back up in verse 10 as the brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea.> As the brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea.So the brothers being the people who have just believed, it's just the beginnings of a church. And they're like, hey, we live here, but y' all, don't they want to hurt you, not us. Y' all get out of here. And we're going to keep following, figuring this out. And when they arrived, this is in Berea, they went into the Jewish synagogue. So Paul was like, I know my strategy. We're going back. Didn't work well last time, but we're going to do it this time. And it did work in some ways, because people believed. He's like, this is working. Even though some people hated me and wanted to Kill me. So he keeps going.> Now, these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica. They received the word with all eagerness.I just love that that note was in there. Just like these people were better than the ones in Thessalonica. And that's in Scripture, and it's there forever, you guys. All right? Many of them therefore believed with not a few Greek women of high standing as well as men. But when the Jews from Thessalonica learned that the word of God was proclaimed by Paul at Berea also, they came there, too, agitating and stirring up the crowd.So we don't exactly know how long he was in Berea, but. But he was there long enough for people to believe and for that to become such a thing that's happening there that they find out in Thessalonica. So they're like, oh, well, he's just going to keep at it. So they head over there to run him off out of Berea. Then it says, the brothers immediately sent Paul off on his way to the sea. But Silas and Timothy remained there. And those who conducted Paul brought him as far as Athens. And after receiving a command for Silas and Timothy to come to him as soon as possible, they departed.So Silas and Timothy stay. They sneak Paul out to a boat and ride him down to Athens. And then he says, when y' all get back, tell Silas and Timothy to come to me. And then he's hanging out in Athens by himself. While he's in Athens, he finds out that there's a place in Athens. There doesn't seem to. He does go to a Jewish synagogue. Then he also finds out that there's a place in Athens where they just gather and share news and anything new and debate new topics and new ideas. So he goes there and starts proclaiming the Gospel. And we're going to pick up in that.> The times of ignorance God overlooked. But now he commands all people everywhere to repent because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed. And of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.To Paul, as he's concluding, he says God overlooked ignorance, but not anymore. Now there's a man who's going to judge the whole world in righteousness. And he says, and God's proven this by raising him from the dead. So he's proclaiming the gospel that everyone everywhere needs to repent, which Just so you know, that's essential to the gospel, that everyone, everywhere needs to repent. Sometimes we'll pick specific isolated sins and someone will say, well, you think this is bad? And it's like, I don't know how to tell you this. We think everyone everywhere needs to repent, that you can't. If you just pick an isolated one, we're like, probably, yes, that's a sin. And that's a sin. And that's a sin. We believe that everyone has fallen short of the glory of God and needs Christ, that we aren't going to moral ourselves into this. We're not going to work our way into this. And this is what he's proclaiming to them. And he says that it's proven by. By the resurrection of Christ from the dead.> Now, when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked, but others said, we will hear you again about this.So Paul went out from their midst, but some men joined him and believed, among whom also were Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris and others with them. So several people believe he proclaims the Gospel. He goes to a new place, begins proclaiming the Gospel, and more people believe.Chapter 18. After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth.> After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth.So he jumped across out of. He was on Athens and then he jumped across Corinth, had to take a boat, and he found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to leave Rome. And he went to them. And because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked for they were tentmakers by trade. And he reasoned in the synagogue every Sabbath and tried to persuade Jews and Greeks.> When Silas and Timothy arrived from Macedonia, Paul was occupied with the word, testifying to the Jews that the Christ was Jesus.So now, instead of making tents, his occupation, what he's at work in now is proclaiming the Gospel. He's had enough room now to share it. And he's spending his time trying to articulate to them this. And he's studying with them and proclaiming it to them.> When the Jewish people opposed and reviled him, he shook out his garments and said to them, your blood be on your own heads. I am innocent. From now on, I will go to the Gentiles.And he left there, and he went to the house of a man named Titius Justus, a worshiper of God. His house was next door to the synagogue. I just appreciate that a whole lot. He's like, fine, I'm gonna go to the Gentiles. He walks out. He turns the corner. He walks in that house and is like, boom, Setting up shop. Here we go. So he's right next to the synagogue. He didn't go far away. He's like, I'm telling people about Jesus. I don't know. Right here next to y'. All. That's what he starts doing. Then it says, crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed in the Lord. So he was next door. He was overseeing that. He just is like, I'm going to. And he heads over to the other house together with his entire household. And many of the Corinthians, hearing Paul believed and were baptized. And the Lord said to Paul one night in a vision.> Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many in this city who are my people.And he stayed a year and six months teaching the word of God among them. So he's been chased all along. He's in Corinth. Jesus shows up and says, stay here. Keep preaching. Because there are many people in this city who are mine, but not yet. So Paul is in a spot where Jesus says, there are people here who belong to me, but they don't know it yet. I know it. They don't know it. And you've got to stay and you've got to tell them. You've got to proclaim the gospel. You've got to explain what's happened, and then they will belong to me. To me, because they already belong to me. That's what he's saying. And that's one of the things that undergirds missions. One of the reasons we go, one of the reasons we plant churches, one of the reasons we send, one of the reasons we go to places where people have never heard. One of the reasons we go to places that are difficult is because all over the place, there are people who belong to Jesus. And we've got to go tell them. We've got to go tell him who he is. And the Spirit goes to work in their heart, and Jesus claims them it's not something that happens without their knowledge. They are going to come to genuine faith in Jesus that will be tangible and real in their life. But what Jesus is saying is that he sins at times and he puts somebody in a place at times because there are people there who belong to him. They just haven't heard about him yet. That ought to give us courage. We ought to begin to beg the Lord. Lord, are there people at work? There are people at my job. Are there people in this class? Are there people on the street who belong to you that I'm supposed to stay and proclaim the gospel to? And we ought to start praying over maps, and we ought to start going to places and saying, lord, there's gotta be people here who belong to you. Put me in the right spot, Send me to the right place. Help me to be there to proclaim the gospel.Now, there's something else that's happening in this text that I think we need to consider. Alfred Hitchcock was a director. He did movies like Psycho and the Birds, and he had a concept that he called the refrigerator test. He just said he wanted all of his movies that he made to pass the refrigerator test. The point was, you'd go see a movie, you're in it, soaking it up. It's great. You leave, you go home, you open your refrigerator to grab a snack before you go to bed, and suddenly you're like, wait a second. How did they get on the train in the first place? And you realize that the movie just skipped a thing. It didn't explain something to you, or there's a logical problem. You're like, why didn't the bad guys just shoot him? They shot his wife. Why'd they shoot her and then leave him alive? Were they running out of bullets? You open your refrigerator and you think, why don't they ever shoot at Captain America's legs? You know, I've played paintball before. I picked up a pallet one time. I got shot in the legs, like 45 times. Seems easy enough. And as we're reading this passage, there's a little hint at it in one place, but I think there's a thing that we should go. Hold on a second. How does Paul survive not just not get killed, but we've watched him travel around for years at this point. There was one moment where they said he went and made tents. And unless he sold the most extravagant, amazing tents, that he just did that for a couple of weeks, and then he was set for several years. It feels like there's something else going on here now, you could say, well, it's fair to assume that the people that are believing are starting to tend to him, they're going to feed him, they're going to help him have a place to stay. And it's like that. That's reasonable. But there's places where he shows up and there's nobody. That hasn't happened yet. And so this is one of those things where you go, well, how does. How is he doing this? Is he independently wealthy, like Bruce Wayne or something? What's going on? And then it doesn't talk about it in this text, but it does show up in Paul's letters. And so I want us to go to. It's mentioned in Corinthians, but it's talked about directly in Philippians. And I want y' all to see this. This is the end of Philippians chapter four. He's writing to the church in Philippi. So that was the first dot on our map. And he says, and you, Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the Gospel. So this is right when I first started, was proclaiming this.> When I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. Even in Thessalonica, you sent me help for my needs once and again.So he's writing to this church, and he's saying, y' all partnered with me from the very beginning you entered into partnership with me. Meaning that the work that Paul did, they had a hand in it. They had a share in it. Even though he's the one traveling around the church in Philippi is helping make sure that's possible. And y'. All. He says something crazy. Look at this. That's Philippi. The whole big section here is Macedonia. When he gets out of Macedonia, he's in Corinth. So he says, nobody helped me when I left Macedonia except for y'. All. So he's like, y' all helped provide for me while I was in Corinth. And that's why he mentions it to the Corinthians, because I didn't take anything from y'. All. He says, I worked. He mentioned that. And then he says, and the churches in Macedonia helped me. But he also says, when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me help. That was right after he left Philippi. He went through two towns, and the next town that it says he was in for three weeks was Thessalonica, which means that the Philippians, as soon as they believed, started helping Paul be a missionary. As soon as it happened, what they said Was, oh, we want everybody to know this. And if you're gonna go and tell people, we want in on that. We want to be a part of making sure that everybody knows what we now know. And it started immediately with them.> Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit.You know how that works, right? With your money, there are certain things where it's like your wallet magically appears in your hand that you're just willing to pay for. Usually people who get married to each other, those things are wildly different. So your spouse seems to have infinite money for this stupid category. When you know that you should never spend money on that. You should spend money on this brilliant category that you love. And that seems to be what happens. And what happens with the Philippians is as soon as they know about Christ and they find out that Paul's gonna go check, share it with other people, their wallet's just in their hands. They're just like, oh, yeah, we want this to happen. Make sure he has what he needs. And they do it the whole time. They find out he's in Corinth, and they're like, make sure he has what he needs so that he can tell more people about this. And Paul says that they've partnered with him. And then he says this. Not that I seek the gift, because they've just given him a gift. And he's telling him, thank you. That's what he was doing earlier. He says, not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. He says. So he was telling him, thank you. He said, I appreciate it. He said, but that's not what it's all about. What it's about is that you are doing something that's valuable and that you receive credit for doing this good thing. He's basically saying to the Philippians, this is something you ought to do. It's a good thing to do. And I'm glad that you're doing it. Which if you've ever talked to missionaries, they do have that weird. They're really thankful, but they're also trying, like, they don't trying to be about money. So they'll say like, thank you so much. We also are just trusting the Lord, but thank you. But also, it's good for you to give. But also it's not all about, like, they have these weird. If you read this section in Philippians, you can see Paul being like, you should do this. But I'm not super worried about it. Cause Jesus is gonna take care of me. But not being worried about it doesn't mean I'm not thankful. I'm very thankful. And he just is trying to articulate all these things at once. And he says, I have received full payment and more. I am well supplied having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent.> A fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God, and my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus,so that they're getting to be stewards of God's provision for them by providing for Paul. And Paul says, God sees it, God knows it. It's a sacrifice pleasing to him. Now, I would argue that there are things we put money towards that do not fit the category of a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. Not to say that everything we spend our money on is bad. And I think that there are things that are, you're perfectly fine to exist and pay your bills and do things. But I think that when we see that there are things that the Lord delights for us to participate in, that we get to join in partnership with missionaries, that we get to enjoy partaking in the endeavor that they're after, and that we get to do something that the Lord looks at and is pleased with than we ought to. When he sets our valuation of something, take him up on it. When he says this is good and valuable, take him up on it. And when Jesus is talking about this, at one point he says it's not about the amount. He just says not even a cup of cold water will be forgotten. That if you give anything to try to participate in this, if you give anything to care and to love and because you're a disciple and because they're a disciple and because they're going, he says, not a thing's forgotten. So every penny is remembered and every penny is worth it. But then he says this in Philippians 4:20, then this is why we do this to our God and Father. Be glory forever and ever. Amen.> To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.That's the point. That's the reason the Philippians want a partner. It's because they want everyone everywhere to give glory to God. To know who Christ is, to know what he's done, to know how good he is, to know how wonderful he is, to know how much he loves, to. To know the grace that he offers. When you ever consider how merciful and kind he's been to you, if you consider the weight of your sin, the weight of your failings, the weight of your shortcomings, the depth of the destruction that we deserve and how loving and good and wonderful he is, and that he's designed so that we would belong to him and so that he can lavish his riches and kindness on us for all eternity. And that that's offered to all who will call on him, then we want all to call on Him. That's why John Piper says that missions exist because worship doesn't. He says worship is the goal and fuel of missions. That's why we go, because we have tasted of the joy of worshiping Jesus and we want all the families of the earth in included.So while everything around you is going to push and pull you in a different direction and tell you, you need this, you need this, you should have one of these in order to be happy, you'll need this. My sons asked me, they said Halloween hadn't happened. Why are all the commercials, Christmas commercial? I said, oh, boy, they want money. Our whole economy runs off of you buying things you don't need. And we're trying to take a moment to just go, look, we want to celebrate well, we also want to pause and go, is my money going in the right direction? Do I have my priorities right? Is my value system correct? Do I look like a person who knows the delight and the goodness of Christ? Does that show up in how my money and my budget works? And that's what we want to pause and do every year in our gift series.So this year what we do. Not this year. I started the wrong sentence. I'll start that sentence in a second. What we do every year is we pick a project or two one time, three, I think, and we just say we want to give money to this. It's just an opportunity for our church to rally together and be generous. So we've done different things. Sometimes we do local things, sometimes we do further away things. This year we're going to partner, hopefully Lord willing, with two different organizations to do some foreign missions work. So I'm introducing the first project today. So this year we're going to do two. I'm introducing the first project today, we'll introduce the next one next week. And then over the next few weeks we'll try to raise money to support these agencies in the efforts that they're doing in foreign mission work. So the first one we're going to partner with is elam. It is a missions organization in Mexico. When we started praying about this and looking, we were like, we want to do something with foreign missions. We want to give some effort in this direction. Scott and Kit's Hill's son Scotty, also Isaac Hill, is one of our pastors. It's his uncle also Isaac Hill's wife Lydia, it's her uncle in law, works with Elam in Mexico. So we just called him up and started trying to talk to him about what would it look like if we partnered with you? What kind of work are you doing? What's the labor looking like right now in where you are? So this is a picture. One of the things, as we said, just start dreaming a little bit if we partner with you now. It's an EFCA organization. So the money's going towards an organization that is very transparent in how they handle their finances. ELAM is they pick that name because it's the name of Oasis mentioned in the book of Exodus and what they do. I'll read some of this specifically. I can find my notes here. Yeah. ELAM is a mission development and mobilization organization in Mexico that focuses on equipping and mobilizing local churches. They do this through trainings and through short term missions trips to indigenous communities. So one of the things they do is they'll partner with a local church in a harder area and they show up and help do missions trips to try to help that church serve the community and have an opportunity for evangelism, have an opportunity to build goodwill with the community as that church is trying to develop. So what they've been doing recently is, is medical mission, short term missions programs. And so they'll go to a community and do medical missions for a couple weeks to try to help a local in partnership with a local church in a community. So the core activities are they do general medical exams and treatment, dental care and hygiene education, vision screenings and the distribution of eyeglasses. And then throughout that they're doing church support and evangelism as a part of it.So they currently have a donated auto refractor which is a machine you put on your face and it tells you what your prescription is. And then someone donated to them 6,000 pairs of glasses. So they show up to places, stick an autorefactor on people's faces, find out what the prescription is, find it and give them a pair of glasses. And so they're able to go to these rural places and under resourced places and help people see. They also have two mobile dental machines and chairs. And then they're using all this on supplies on borrowed trucks and on the open bed trailer covered with tarps. They've been going to Sierra Mezateca where there's about 300,000 Mezatecos and only a few local churches. They've been in Partnership with a church called Amigos de Fe. And they've planted churches and trying to plant churches in eight communities. They've done five medical trips in that area with about 80 to 120 medical patients, 40 to 50 dental patients, and then they were given out 20 to 30 glasses. And then in the areas near Veracruz and hidalgo, there's about 490,000 people. They have two medical trips they've done this past year. They've got a third one scheduled. On their first two, they had about 100 to 150 medical patients, 60 to 100 dental patients, and they gave out 50 to 100 pairs of glasses, which I don't know if you've ever tried to live without glasses and then got glasses, but it's magical. Just ask third grade Chet. So for them to show up to places where people have not been able to see and just outfit them, they walk in and walk out with glasses is a wonderful thing.And so we just said, what would you need if we were going to give you money? What would you use it for? What would this look like? And so the biggest, they said the current biggest limitation is the logistics problem for them. They have an open bed trailer that they've just been throwing a tarp on. And so they said we'd love. Yeah, that. They said they have lost equipment due to rain. And some of the places that they go to, they end up having to park and hike up mountains. I mean, they're going to hard to reach places and difficult to resource places. And so they said they'd love to have an enclosed trailer. And so they sent us this sort of thing now just to help you all out. That 98,500 is pesos. So if you're like, nah, we're gonna have to smuggle in one of our trailers. We ain't paying that. That's in pesos. So don't stress out over that.So here's what we said. We just said, start telling us what you would need. And they gave us a list. We said, dream. We've learned as a church that we want to. We want to get some options. We want to get some things in front of us and we'll see what the Lord does and what we're able to do together. Like we said, our hope is to knock this out, to be able to do what they've asked and do another one. But we'll see. We're happy to get to partner together however we're able to. But this is what. This is how the money would work for this Group the trailer is about $6,000. So the first $6,000 we raise, they're going to go get a trailer. After that, they would use 1250 for insurance, taxes, maintenance of the trailer. So they said if we're able to give them about $7,000, 7,500, they'll get a trailer and they'll be taken care of for a year, and then they'll, you know, just continue to operate with it. But they would be blessed by that because they'd be able to load it up, they'd be able to lock it up, they'd be able to show up to the place, unload what they needed to unload, keep. Like they just said this would bless their souls and their ability to get in and out of places and. And not lose equipment. So we said that sounded smart to us. So we thought, yes, let's try to get them a trailer if we're able to keep giving. Here are other things. They were like, well, look, y' all give us money, we're going to spend it. So they would love another auto refractor, which helps them to do multiple trips or to be able to just handle more people when they're coming in, getting them glasses. A lensometer is actually what you use to shine through glasses to make sure it is the right prescription. So auto refractor goes on the face, lensometer goes on the glasses. A diagnostic kit and a retinoscope is just the ability to try to actually check eyes, see what's going on. If they could have a mobile dental X ray with a computer, that would be amazing so that they could actually do X rays right there, see what's going on inside. And then they said dental chairs and lights, 600 general dental tools and supplies, 1500 general medical equipment, 500, for a total of $22,250. We'd love to be able to raise that for them. We'd love to get to join in partnership in a way that we get to be a part of people in areas of Mexico we'll never step foot in being cared for, loved, and getting a tangible picture of the gospel. As a group of people is trying to plant churches to articulate the gospel.Just so y' all know, we don't do a whole lot as a church in partnership with any kind of foreign missions organization that isn't trying to plant churches and articulate the gospel. We think it is incomplete if we're just doing physical things, but we love to partner where they're doing some physical work, some. Some tangible help in connection with local church planting and church organization and these sort of things going forward. So as a church, every year we do every year at Christmas we partner with the Lottie Moon Christmas offering, which is, you see it on the tables and it's in your bulletin, which is a part of missions efforts for the Southern Baptist. We do that every year and then we pick a give project and then sometimes we pick as a give project a missions opportunity. And we've got two in front of us this year. This is the first one we're going to be able to get after we're excited to be able to partner in this specific way in Mexico for the sake of what they're doing and would love for you to begin praying about what does it look like for you to partner in helping see other people come to know Jesus and tangibly see what he does among a group people, let's pray.Father, we're thankful. We're thankful that you have met us in our need. We're thankful that you have redeemed us and called us into something eternal. We ask that your spirit would be at work so that our church might be a blessing to those who are out and doing international efforts. We pray, Lord, that you would stir in the hearts of our church family so that we might be able to send people and we pray that you would stir in our hearts that we might be able to send money to the people who are already there. But may we be a part of what you are doing around the world in the places where people belong to you. There just hasn't been someone who's told them about you yet. In Jesus name Amen. Band's gonna come up. We're gonna sing. If you desire to give, there are there is a drop down menu online that you can give directly to it already. You can also give via an envelope or just put on the check that it's for our gift project. But we ask you to begin to pray and hopefully, Lord willing will be able to begin to move on this and then get into some of the other stuff, see what the Lord does.

During this weekend that focuses on giving thanks, join Michael, Open Line producer Trish McMillan, and MBI professor Eva Rydelnik for a Bible study on thankfulness. What do the Scriptures say about giving thanks? Join this special Thanksgiving weekend edition of Open Line as we study Luke 17. Learn more about resources mentioned:Chosen People Ministries free giftFEBC podcastMoody Bible Commentary Open Line is listener-supported. To support the program, click here.Become a Kitchen Table Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/openline/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Romans 8:28-30 — The doctrine of the perseverance of the saints is a contested doctrine. Those who hold to the cherished doctrine of assurance must acknowledge the difficult objections posed and not ignore them. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones recognizes this and serves as a positive example of an exegete who does not shy away from engaging the most often-cited Scriptures that seem to contradict his personal beliefs. In a manner that not only demonstrates a responsible handling of Scripture, he also demonstrates humility in his exegetical task. In this message on Romans 8:28–30 titled “The Biblical Way,” Dr. Lloyd-Jones outlines his principles of interpretation. He encourages interpreters of the Bible to operate on the principle of Scripture alone. Rather than allowing philosophy to govern one's interpretation, he argues that the Christian should allow Scripture to interpret Scripture. Furthermore, one should start with the unambiguous “proof texts” and then deal with the difficult texts in light of the clear statements. He applies these interpretive principles as he works through famous passages like the Parable of the Sower, Hebrews 6, and 2 Peter 2. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones lays out interpretive principles that all Christians should implement in their personal study of sacred Scripture. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29?v=20251111

By Thomas Coulter - We are instructed to be an overcomer – a battle we must win, with Jesus providing an example of a lifelong commitment to this victory we must attain. What do the Scriptures prescribe for our victory?

Most of us would consider it a dream come true if every time we faced a tough decision, a hand from heaven would come and write on our wall, pointing us to the right choice. But frankly, that wouldn't work too well when you think about it. If God gave us a decision we didn't like, then we'd be faced with whether we would choose to follow God's choice. The first question I have to ask you is this: If God would come down in some miraculous way and give you clear directions when you're facing a tough decision, would you unquestionably and immediately be willing to do what he told you? Have you finally come to understand God's ways are better than your ways—that his thoughts are above your thoughts—that he has good plans for you and his directions are the very best for you? Until you really want above everything else to know and do God's will—until you are passionately desirous of pleasing God in all your ways, God could write on your walls and you wouldn't be happy if it wasn't exactly what you wanted. Many times, we just want God to bless our decisions, not redirect us. I know this from experience in my own life. For ten long years I said I wanted God's will for my life, but the truth was, I only wanted it if his plan was my plan! Therefore, many times I made very bad decisions because I was convinced my way was best. The first and most important issue you and I face, as Christ-followers, when it comes to the tough decisions of our lives, is to determine in advance if we truly want to know what God would have us do and if we are totally committed to following his guidance. Let me assure you God never plays hide and seek with those who are seeking his guidance. He's not trying to make it difficult for you to know what to do in puzzling and tough situations. He wants you to know his will more than you want to know it! Search your heart and make sure you truly want heavenly guidance. That's the starting place. When you follow biblical truth, you can't go wrong. Having faith to trust in God’s wisdom is the key to making right decisions. You may want handwriting on your walls, but the good news is, you have something far better to guide you, and that is the inspired Word of God, the Bible. Romans 15:4 says everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. There is hope for you whenever you're facing a tough decision, and it is at your fingertips, in the written word of God. And on top of having our Bibles, we have our own personal teacher, the Holy Spirit. Jesus told his disciples when he left them God the Father would send his Spirit to guide them. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you (John 14:26). The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes (Psalm 19:8). It's a very wonderful and special experience when you go to God's Word and look for his guidance. That word becomes personal and special to you—as though it was put there just for you for whatever you're facing. It really is an “ah-ha” moment as you realize God has taken his Word and spoken to you personally through it. I want to point out four specific Scripture passages that tell us how to approach a tough decision. There are many others, but these will get you started on the right path. And here's the first verse we need to heed: If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you (James 1:5). This is where you begin every time you face a tough decision. You ask God to give you wisdom. Let me ask you: Do you often pray for wisdom? Why wouldn't you take advantage of this wonderful provision God offers to us—wisdom given generously? That's what you need when you're trying to make a good decision, right? You need wisdom. Wisdom has been promised to you. Just take God at his word and pray for wisdom. I've been praying this verse for years, recognizing how desperately I need wisdom all the time. I tend to make fast decisions, and sometimes they're not the best because I haven't sought God's wisdom. You can save yourself a lot of grief and regret by praying for wisdom on a regular basis so you're ready to face whatever tough decision comes up. I remember not long after I began seriously praying for wisdom, when I was faced with a difficult decision on short notice, and I had to respond rather quickly. I made a decision that turned out to be right on—a very good decision that brought good results. Afterwards, I realized God had just answered my prayer. I was given wisdom to make a good decision, and I knew it was from God. It was not my usual knee-jerk response but was a wise and good decision. God says he will give us wisdom and when we pray for it, he answers our prayer. It's just that simple, yet many times we don't take God at his word, and we try to do it in our own wisdom, which can be pretty risky. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes (Psalm 37:7). Sometimes when we are pressed to make tough decisions, there's the temptation to be quick and presumptuous instead of waiting on God. That certainly has been my way of operating far too often. Being still before God means we will have periods of time when it seems like nothing is happening. This can be the toughest spot for us—waiting on God to give us guidance. Sometimes it's a timing issue; we want to move now but God knows it's better to wait. You may not think anything is happening, but God is working behind-the-scenes for you. Pray for wisdom and then be still and wait before the Lord for his timing. Remember that waiting before the Lord means exactly that—spending time in his presence, in his Word, in prayer, and in finding strength and courage because you've spent time with God. Don't skip this step. It's important when you're facing tough decisions. Listen to advice and accept instruction, and at the end you will be counted among the wise (Proverbs 19:20). If you start asking everyone or anyone for advice, you're likely to get all kinds of wrong guidance. But Scripture teaches us to seek help when we're facing tough decisions. However, it's important to screen out the voices and hear from those who walk closely with God. Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm (Proverbs 13:20). Another proverb tells us to make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance (Proverbs 20:18). Again, you need to seek advice from the right people—godly people who have a track record of walking with God, and who lean heavily on God's truth in offering advice or help. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6). Do your homework—your due diligence, as we say. Seek wisdom from God and advice from trusted people. But in the end, trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding. God's wisdom is often so different from ours because he knows everything; he sees the end from the beginning. Make sure you submit all your ways to the Lord. That simply means you live in obedience to the principles of Scripture; there is no known area of willful sin or disobedience in your life—no rebellion. That's important when we're seeking God's wisdom and guidance. He has promised to make your path straight—to show you the right way and guide you where you should go. But the condition to that promise is you submit all your ways to him. The tough decisions of life are testing points. Do you really trust God or not? Are you open to his way, which may be out of your comfort zone? Whenever we let go of our will and make ourselves open to God's will, we make a way for God to work a miracle. Whether you're facing a tough decision right now, there will be some soon enough. Establishing some disciplines to guide your decision-making process in advance is wise. The consequences of our tough decisions are often life-changing, so it's important that you and I are prepared to face those choices with biblical guidance. I encourage you to use the Scripture I've given you today—as well as many others you will find on your own—to help you take the fear and worry out of those tough decisions. As you acknowledge the Lord in all your ways, he will direct your path, and it will be for your good.

This week I learned the horrific news that my cousin, Jack Fanous, went home to be with the Lord suddenly and unexpectedly.Jack tirelessly fought for the rights of U.S. Armed Forces Veterans, raising awareness and support for their housing, employment, and mental health needs through his organization, the G.I. Go Fund (gigofund.org). Amazingly, over the past two years, Jack was also on a quest for spiritual discovery, and he read the Scriptures at least three times, cover to cover. He was changed by reading God's Word, which motivated today's lagniappe edition of Rinse and Repeat, "I Want to Live Like Jack."I was studying Psalm 119 as I mourned Jack, and was struck by how much God's Word, celebrated in this psalm, protects us and directs our lives. In fact, the more I meditated on the psalm, the more I knew God was speaking to me about why God's Word is imperative in our lives, and how to live like Jack.Join me for this truly personal, special edition of Rinse and Repeat.(RAR2025EP49)

A fascinating weekly study of the Scriptures that brings to life the meaning of the biblical text using history, original languages, and Jewish culture. This podcast will strengthen your faith and your understanding of the Bible. Hosted by author, attorney, pastor, and founder of Covenant Journey, Mat Staver. Learn more and get involved at CovenantJourney.org

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