Podcasts about see psalm

06/01/2025 Words of Worship | TOWDAH“An extension of the hand in thanksgiving; a sacrifice of praise offered in faith - often before the outcome is seen.”Do you praise and thank God from the darkness? Are you grateful for the darkness?See Psalm 56: 10-12JONAH & TOWDAH - Jonah 2Even in the midst of Jonah's disobedience, God leveraged the circumstances for His glory. As a result, Jonah repented and cried out to God from the pit of his despair.God is always worthy of our praise and trust, even in our darkest times when things are at their absolute worst.What might it look like for you to TOWDAH in your circumstances?Psalm 50:23 “Whoever offers a thanksgiving sacrifice honors me, and whoever orders his conduct, I will show him the salvation of God.”

Are you—or a young man you love—wrestling with temptation, failure, and the desire to live clean before God? In this opening message of our new Path to Purity series, Pastor Roderick Webster goes straight to the Bible's own question: “Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way?” and shares the answer God gives in the very same verse—“By taking heed according to Your word”.

Kingsway Community Church

Joseph is wrongfully imprisoned for more than two years. However, despite suffering betrayal, injustice, being subjected to slavery and imprisonment, Joseph's character never wavers. He continues to be Upright and steadfast even while imprisoned. Join us Tuesday as we examine what motivates us to be steadfast and how we can endure even when our circumstances don't immediately change. Verses Used:Genesis 402 Thessalonians 3:52 Timothy 3:16Colossians 4:2James 5:8Discussion Questions:Are there seasons of your life that have felt like “prison seasons” where nothing seems to change despite your obedience and faith?In what ways are prison seasons difficult? Why is it hard to remain steadfast?Why does the Bible call us to be steadfast?Where do we find help to remain steadfast? (See Psalm 119:92-93 & 116, Psalm 147:5, Proverbs 3:34, Isaiah 40:27-31)Is there an area of your life that is difficult to be steadfast in? Would you like prayer to support you in that area?

Psalm 34 invites you to live out verse 8; “Taste and see that the Lord is good, blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.”

Diligent people are dedicated and thorough, seeing tasks through to completion—they don't give up and are known for their trustworthiness and strong work ethic. Following Christ requires this same diligence. Join us for Session Three as we follow Joseph's example and explore how to make diligence a foundational element in everything we do. By setting this standard for ourselves, we can pursue a life of godliness that draws others to the Lord.Verses: Genesis 39:1-6aColossians 3:23-24Proverbs 4:232 Timothy 2:15Matthew 24:44-47Discussion Questions:What would you struggle with if you went from being your parents' favorite child to a slave in another land? What is Joseph's motivation to continue to be diligent? (See Colossians 3:22-24)Why should we care to be diligent in things we are entrusted with?Aside from physical labor or spheres of influence, what spiritual things are we called to be diligent in? (Deuteronomy 6:17 and Psalm 119:4, and 2 Timothy 2:15)Joseph is granted favor from the Lord. What things does the Bible say help us obtain favor? (See Psalm 5:12, Psalm 147:11, and Proverbs 3:3-4)

Psalm 34:8-13

Learning, Longing, and Loving to See (Psalm 8) | 120124 by One Ancient Hope Presbyterian Church

Sermon: Zephaniah 3:14-17, The LORD Sings Over Us Main Point: Sing to the Lord because of His salvation, and rejoice in the fact that He sings over you. I. Sing to the LORD because of His Salvation – 3:14-16.  See Psalm 33:3, 95:1-2; Galatians 3:28-29; Hebrews 12:22-24 II. Because of His Salvation the LORD Sings […] The post Zephaniah: The LORD Sings Over Us appeared first on Grace Church Crystal Coast.

"Hurricanes are the result of low-pressure systems moving across warm tropical wasters. Earthquakes are caused by the normal release of energy from the movement of tectonic plates. Sickness and disease are as old as the ecosystem that sustains humanity, and we are frail beings. Evil people - with twisted minds and monstrous intentions - will always live among us. This is the natural world - the natural state of affairs. To ignore it or to explain it away is a travesty that only compounds suffering, it does not alleviate it. And as utterly shocking as this may sound, in the face of this suffering, don't look to the heavens to find God! Look to your suffering neighbors! "Because God 'was not in the storm,' if I might borrow a line from the prophet Elijah. God is in and with the storm-blown, now homeless family in Steinhatchee, Florida. God didn't cause the rising waters - God is in the evacuees who lost everything to the flooding of the French Broad River. God is in that child who cannot escape the abuse of her of stepfather. God is in innocent children dying in today's wars. Don't look for God up there or out there - look for God down here. Don't look for God in your answer-all theology books - look for God in the question marks and confusion. Don't look for God in the explanations of religion. Look for God in suffering people. Because that's where Jesus said God would be - Christ would be there in the 'least of these.' An act of God is not some disastrous calamity - no matter what your insurance policy says. You are an act of God - you can be - when in hope and faith you act to lovingly heal the world." (See Psalm 19 and Luke 13.)    

EPHESIANS 1: YOUR IDENTITY IN CHRIST AUGUST 11, 2024 SESSION 2 è Background and Review: Grace and Peace è Ephesians 1:3 - The Power Of Blessing • Meaning: Empowered, enabled by God to prosper in spirit, soul, body, relationally, provisionally, productivity in every way! (Genesis 12:3; Deuteronomy 28:1-8; Galatians 3:13, 14, 29) • The opportunity to be a Blessing to God, to others He brings into your circle and leads you to bless! • “The Heavenly Places in Christ” • 3 terms • Christ's location (Romans 8:34) • Christ's blessings (John 16:14, 15) [i.e., Love, Grace, Peace, Identity, Provision, Protection, Wisdom, Favor, Security….] • Our honor, responsibility, to Bless the Lord! (See Psalm 103, i.e.) è Ephesians 1:4 – He chose you in Christ • When? Before time; before you; before your choices • What? (did God see) In Christ, you are loved perfectly, and are holy and blameless. • See 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 – The Great Exchange! • Our problem: failure to see ourselves in Christ and act accordingly! (Unbelief is a Killer!) • Romans 5:17 – RECEIVE!!! è COMMUNION: A holy act of Worship and Thanksgiving! A Holy, intimate connection with Jesus and what happened at the Cross …. The internal, spirit-ministered connection with and response to the body and blood of Christ.

Psalm 66 is a song of vibrant praise and reminds God's people of the good things God has done. In a time when it is easy to look to other things besides God and his Word, Psalm 66 reorients the people of God to more resounding praise and honor of God, the thing we need most.

Sunday Sermon from the book of Psalms from John Bourgeois on June 9, 2024. Our hope for you is that you will know, love, and follow Jesus Christ -- leading to personal transformation, intimate community, and a life of radical mission. You are always welcome to join us for worship at West End Community Church. For more info, please visit the WECC website at westendcc.org

Justification by faith is a key concept in Christian salvation. The idea is simple. We believe in the gospel message; God justifies us, making us right with Him. To further understand this, we'll consider two examples: Abraham and David, both mentioned in Romans 4. Romans 3:21-26   God's righteousness is a big topic. To understand it, we need to reflect on how God created our world, how humans have repeatedly rebelled, and how God has devised a solution to these problems. Romans 4:1-8   To understand justification, the Apostle Paul points to two examples: Abraham and David. Genesis 15:1-6   Although Abraham failed repeatedly throughout his life, he was a believer. When God promised him a child, he trusted in that promise. 2 Samuel 12:1-9   David's sins with Bathsheba and Uriah were so severe and deplorable it's hard to believe that he could ever become justified. Even so, after Nathan confronted him and he repented, he wrote a psalm, celebrating the blessing of forgiven sins. (See Psalm 32.) 1 Corinthians 1:26-29; James 2:5; Matthew 11:25   Justification by faith makes salvation available to everyone. Rather than choosing the wealthiest, most intelligent, or most beautiful people, in His wisdom God decided He wanted believers. What a magnificent truth!The post Justified first appeared on Living Hope.

Why does it seem so hard to do things the way God instructs us to? He has made it clear, right? He has given all of creation His general revelation. That is God's self-disclosure and self-communication in the universe and created world and reigns as King of all. (See Psalm 19:1-4; Romans 1:20) In other words, creation itself declares God exists. Humanity's moral code is part of our designs.But God has also given us Special Revelation. Special revelation is when God reveals Himself through miraculous means. These include God's physical appearance, dreams, visions, the written Word of God, and, most importantly, Jesus Christ.The Bible records God appearing in physical form many times (Genesis 3:8, 18:1; Exodus 3:1-4, 34:5-7), and God speaking to people through dreams (Genesis 28:12, 37:5; 1 Kings 3:5; Daniel 2) and visions (Genesis 15:1; Ezekiel 8:3-4; Daniel 7; 2 Corinthians 12:1-7).The reality is that any revelation of God leads to a paradigm shift or an affirmation. A paradigm is a standard, perspective, or set of ideas. We might call it the grid or lens that we process what we see, hear, and/or experience. Our paradigm is often passed on to us from others. It is the way we process our world and all that is in it. For example, having a Biblical worldview is a paradigm.A paradigm shift is not just a change in our perspective, it's a transformative journey that can profoundly impact our lives and the lives of those around us. This shift allows us to see things in a new, hopeful light and can open new opportunities and possibilities. By the way, you and I make these kinds of shifts all the time and may not even realize it.References for this week:Ephesians. 2:14–16John 10:14-161 Corinthians 12:13-14Gal. 3:28Col. 3:111 Cor. 12:13Eph. 2:14–22Ephesians. 3:14–151 Co 14:32–33-----Call us: 208.524.4747prayer@watersprings.netOnline Giving: https://watersprings.net/give.phpServe at Watersprings: https://watersprings.churchcenter.com...CCLI Streaming License: 20080252 Size ECCLI Copyright License: 1406906 Size FDISCLAIMER: Closed captioning and/or transcription is being provided solely for the convenience of our viewers. Watersprings Church does not review for accuracy any information that appears in a closed caption or transcript. Watersprings Church makes no representations or warranties, and expressly disclaims any responsibility or liability with respect to, any errors or omissions in, or the accuracy, reliability, timeliness or completeness of, any information that appears in a closed caption or transcript.

(Not With The Spirit & His Fruit, in the Context indefatigable Grace & Forgiveness of God)Galatians 5:22-24 → 6:1-10I) Some ways the Fruit of the Spirit is manifested through us to othersa) Gentle loving counsel to the sinner, showing genuine concern towards restoration. 6:1b) Sharing burdens, the central law of Christ 6:2c) Taking Responsibility for our actions, both good and bad: humbly 6:3d) Don't negatively compete, especially regarding the gifts of God (humbly do your gift) 6:5e) Generosity Now and leadership in all areas: when we show proper respect to them wehonor God. 6:5(b)i) See also verses 7-8 “Sowing and reaping”1) (See Psalm 126 for O.T. illustration, especially verses 5-6)II) During Continuous Difficult Situations, Doing Good to All Becomes Weakened, because weare human. It seems to be the first to go! Verses 9 & 10.During extended times of difficulties it becomes hard not to become cynical and wearyof doing good, when bad continues all around us: unabated and not understood.Examples of Jesus experiences of human weakening:- His continued frustrations with His chosen disciples, note Matthew 17:17 (read)- At Gethsemane, Matthew 26: 39; Luke 22:42- “Father if you are willing, take this cup(the cross) from me... (sounds like thewords of a weary prophet)- Yet not my will but yours be done(said while he was tired beyond belief)- Until God's intervention in Verse 43: The strengthening angel.- He then went back to awaken his emotionally exhausted or “weary”Apostles; verse 45-46III) When we experience similar weakenings, It's hard to do good to all.Especially when we try to spend all our time “licking our wounds”We need strengthening angels to help carry our loads. This picture illustrates the helping powerof the Spirit, most necessary in Jesus and our lives.Note Paul's prophetic word in 1 Corinthians 12:9-11; especially verse 9And even if at times we fail to continue in doing good, God's forgiveness and powerfulgrace can help us to recover.Remember the behaviors expected by the fruit of the Spirit, is very dependent on theSpirit's power and faithfulness. They are the fruit of the Spirit not only of our own efforts.Amen

Most of us will have known times when we regret things that we have said or done, or failed to say and do, and burst out, ‘Oh, if only I had . . .!' Such idle regrets are usually an open invitation feels of worthlessness and condemnation – although they can serve some valid purpose if they make us more watchful and attentive in the future. As surely as those are empty regrets, there are occasions in Scripture when the Lord allows us to glimpse how deeply He regrets and mourns over the blindness and deafness of His people – not least because of all that we will are sure to suffer as a result. As He revealed to Asaph, “If My people would only listen to Me, if Israel would only follow My ways . . . But my people would not listen to Me; Israel would not submit to Me. So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices. (See Psalm 81:11-13) Re-read the second and third chapters of Jeremiah and you are sure to hear more of the Lord's deep heart cry, as He laments that after all He has done for the nation - and all that He was offering her – it had still turned away and refused to repent and return to Him. Hear the grief in the Lord's heart as He expresses through Isaiah how things could have been: “If only you had paid attention to My commands, your peace would have been like a river.' We are so sorry, Lord, for the grief that we have caused You, and the opportunities that we have missed. Thus too does Jesus grieve over Jerusalem, knowing well the utter disaster that its stubbornness and spiritual blindness would lead to. “If you had only known on this day what would bring you peace – but for now it is hidden from you.” (Jer. 3:7; Is. 48:18; Luke 19:42) It grieves the Lord when we fail to listen to His voice, and to turn to Him with all our hearts. And there can be no sadder words to hear than to be on the wrong end of the Lord saying, ‘If only you had . . .” Back in 1980, at a time when the Lord was showing us the urgency of our times and calling us to intercede seriously for the nations, He gave us a number of profound and prophetic songs to rally people to this call. Many of these were written by Huw Humphreys. This particular song was written by him, with additional words by Robert Weston. With the help of Mike Halliday on clarinet, Jo Garcia on cello and Christiane von Albrecht on keyboard, Megan Topper shares in the words of that song words and sentiments that speak of the Lord's grief - as well as of His desire for us to heed His call, adjust our heart priorities and respond to His summons to rise up as the army of the Lord. As He looks down over nations and individuals that are straying far from His ways, let's commit ourselves afresh to giving Him the joy and solace of sharing whole heartedly in the things that He is seeing and feeling.

The Presbyterian Church of Upper Montclair Sunday, March 17 2024 Sermon: "Not Listening, Can't See" (Psalm 51:1-12, John 12:20-33) Pastor Greg Horn Elder Tom Johnson, liturgist

Searching to See

For millions of Americans, God no longer feels real. Collectively, we seem to be losing the capacity to know & experience God in a way that was common in the Scriptures and in the Church down through the ages. In this series, we're going to explore what it might look like for us to "taste & see" God in a way that is deeply personal, strangely sensual, overwhelmingly Biblical, and beyond dispute. Following a major theme through Scripture, we're going to talk about how to experience God through... food. Through bread, water, salt, oil, and a perfectly cooked steak. Today, we're going to lay some groundwork. Let's call this a theological history of food... or, better, a culinary history of the family of God. Bon appetit!

First Corinthians 10:31 says, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” But what is the glory of God? And how is your purpose and God's glory tied together? Discover the connection and live with more passion. What Is the Glory of God?God's glory is the essence of His character, the radiance of His splendor, and the expression of His goodness and intrinsic qualities. It is a physical manifestation of His holiness. C.S. Lewis said, “In commanding us to glorify Him, God is inviting us to enjoy Him.” God lovingly asks you to glorify Him so you discover deeper peace, purpose, and passion in life.See Isaiah 43:7, 2 Corinthians 5:15, Psalm 19:1, Isaiah 6:3, Hebrews 1:3aWhat Is Your Purpose?God created you for a purpose. You didn't create yourself and cannot define your purpose. To discover that purpose, you must be in relationship with Him. Think of it this way: You have a tool but don't know its purpose. What is the best way to find out? Consult the manufacturer. God's Word is clear that you are made in His image. As your Creator, He designed you to reveal His glorious character to others. This is your purpose. Your purpose is different from your calling. Your calling is how you live out the purpose of glorifying God daily. God is most glorified when you are most passionate about Him. See Psalm 138:8, Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, Psalm 57:2Listen/Watch and Discover the Connection Between Your Purpose and God's GloryJoin Pastor Nick Tallo as he explains how your purpose and God's glory are connected and how to be aware of counterfeit priorities. He also teaches 2 critical steps of glorifying Him with your life and stepping into your purpose. Placing your faith in JesusMagnifying JesusBible verses for study and reflectionGenesis 1:26, Romans 3:23-25, Romans 10:9, 1 Corinthians 3:18, 1 Peter 2:12, Romans 12:2, 1 Corinthians 11:23-252Rivers Church in O'Fallon, MO, exists to help you become a passionate follower of Jesus.Resources for you:Get into the Word this year using our “Passionate” journal. Get yours here: www.2riverschurch.org/journalStruggling and need prayer? We'd love to pray for you. Submit a prayer request here:  https://2rivers.churchcenter.com/people/forms/29709Embrace God's mission for your life in the book “Intertwined: Our Happiness Is Tied to God's Glory” https://a.co/d/0nQ0R3V

A media ministry publication of Grace Bible Church in Elkhart, Indiana. Moments of transforming grace from the Bible.

Special Topic: Israel/Hamas and the Last Days Chris Hefner Theological Perspectives: Dispensationalism Covenant Theology We should recognize the inordinate influence of Israel as a people upon the world and culture. Because of God's promises to Israel and protection of Israel, the enemies of God and of his people have targeted and attacked Israel over and over again. For a proper NT understanding of Israel, we need to remember the purpose for which God chose Israel—to represent him to the world. Theological Takeaway: Don't interpret Scripture through your theological lens, let Scripture interpret your theology. Political Takeaway: As God's people today, we ought to care for the devastated regardless of nationality/creed. We need not feel bound to approve of Israel, nationally/politically in all her endeavors to have a proper perspective historically/nationally/theologically of Israel as God's people. Prayer Takeaway: Pray for peace (the shalom of God) for all the peoples of the world. See Psalm 122:6 Reach out to us via email at: info@wilkesborobaptist.org

A Psalm of Praise   Psalm 100:1-5 A Psalm of Thanksgiving 1 Make a joyful shout to the LORD, all you lands! 2 Serve the LORD with gladness; Come before His presence with singing. 3 Know that the LORD, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. 4 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. 5 For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations...   Psalm 100 bears the title: "A Psalm of Thanksgiving." Some translations say: “A Psalm of Praise”. One translator called it: "Psalm—For a Thank-offering (or for Thanksgiving)." It was used in the second temple in connection with the sacrifices of thanksgiving. The thanksgiving offering was the "peace" offering. It was offered in gratitude for special mercies received from the Lord. In giving us the various laws of the offerings in Leviticus, the Holy Spirit places this offering last (Leviticus 7:11-34). This is probably because true expressions of thanksgiving flow from an appreciation of all that God has done in Christ. Not until we are done with our sins and ourselves can we truly worship as we ought.   Psalm 100 is the only psalm bearing this precise inscription. It is all ablaze with grateful adoration and has for this reason been a great favorite with the people of God ever since it was written. Most of us associate it with our worship services at Thanksgiving where it is read or sung in some form.   This psalm is a fitting climax to the collection of the theocratic and coronation or “royal psalms” (Psalms 93, 95-100),  which have been sounding one note of joy after another for the anticipated advent of the Messiah as King. Psalm 100 sums up their emphasis on God's sovereign rule, His goodness to His people, the responsibility of all nations to acknowledge Him, and the importance of God's people exalting and worshiping Him. (See Psalm 95:1-2, 6-7.) Hence the psalm is prophetic and anticipates the day when Jesus will reign from sea to sea and shore to shore.   The Apostle Paul admonished the believers in Ephesians 5:18b-21 to be filled with the Spirit of God. “…But be filled with the Spirit”. In verse 19, the evidence of this fullness is that we are joyful and will be singing: “Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord”. In verse 20, we will be thankful: “giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ”.  And in verse 20, we will be submissive: “Submitting to one another in the fear of God”.   It is interesting to note that in Colossians 3:16-18, Paul repeats these same instructions to the church at Colosse but starts by saying, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom…”.  Being filled with Spirit of God and the Word of God are synonymous. They go hand in hand, and you can't have One without the Other. When you are indwelt and filled by both the Spirit and the Word, you will be joyfully, “Teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”  And you will be thankful and submissive: “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Wives, submit to your own husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.”   The three characteristics of the believer that is controlled and filled with the Spirit, and indwelt with the Word of God, is a heart that will be joyful, thankful, and submissive. Psalm 100 expresses all three of these characteristics in this wonderful song of thanksgiving. In verses 1-2, we will sing and be joyful. In verse 3, we will be submissive to God. And in verses 4-5, we will be thankful!   May God's grace help us today to experience this kind of heart!   God bless!

Psalms: A Guide to the Heart of God and Man

1 Peter 3:8 Peter lists out a phenomenal collection of virtues for us to live out in community. We should seek unity, sympathy, love, tender hearts, and humble minds. Living this way not only makes for a better life, but it also testifies to visitors that Christianity works. 1 Peter 3:9 Nonretaliation takes great strength. It's easy to strike back, taking an eye for an eye. As the people who have received blessings because of Christ, we can afford to be generous in blessing others, even when they curse us. 1 Peter 3:10-12 Regardless of what others do, we are to keep our tongue from evil and pursue peace. This calling is nothing new. (See Psalm 34). However, it remains incredibly relevant and challenging. 1 Peter 3:13-17 When living in an antagonistic society, it's important to be zealous for doing good deeds and prepared for those who question us. Still, when we give others our reasons for belief, we must be careful to communicate with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:18-22 Jesus is our example. He too suffered. We can look to his heroic journey and take courage realizing that God vindicated him and enthroned him above the angels, authorities, and powers.

Genesis 4 Sermon Notes:1) Sin Wins | 1-7 2) Blood Cries Out | 8-11 3) Curse Carries On | 11-14 4) Vengeance Saves | 15-17 5) Culture Advances | 16-24 6) Remnant Calls | 25-26 Reflections questions:1. Does it ever feel like sin or sinners are winning in this life? See Psalm 73; how did Asaph wrestle with that same feeling? 2. Does it ever feel like sin is winning in your life? Read Romans 7:1-8:1 (just like last week), but also read James 1:14-15. How does sin gain the victory over us? What are some of the preliminary steps? Does God provide a way out? Also see 1 Corinthians 10:12-13. 3. Why doesn't God wipe out all sinners the minute they sin? Is this a sign of His weakness, slowness, or some kind of idle threat? Or is it good news? See 2 Peter 3:8-10 and Romans 2:3-5.

In Psalm 34 we learned that "tasting the Lord is Good" means trusting him and turning from evil.

Join us for a captivating three-part podcast series that parallels the sought-after 'check mark' of social media accounts with the ultimate verification from our Heavenly Father. Discover how to break free from the need for human praise and embrace God's validation instead. As we grow in our calling and mature in our identity in Christ, learn to rely on His verification process, unlocking a life free from the chains of earthly validation. Tune in now and embark on an exhilarating journey towards finding true worth and fulfillment. Part 1: The Danger of Verification: Lessons from A Census (1 Chronicles 21:1-4) - Introduction: Highlighting the concept of verification in social media and its implications in our lives. Highlight the FOUR main checkpoints for an account to get verified. - Story of David's census: Examining the story from 1 Chronicles 21 and how David's desire to count his people led to disastrous consequences. - Drawing parallels: Discussing how the act of taking a census in the biblical context can represent our tendencies to seek validation and verification in the world. - Highlighting the dangers: Exploring the negative consequences of seeking worldly verification instead of relying on God's approval. - Key takeaway: Understanding the importance of prioritizing God's approval over seeking validation in the world. Don't take a census. We don't have followers, we have influence. Be careful how we manage our influence. Measure influence, not followers. They are the Lord's followers, not ours. Our victories should be counted to the Lord, not us. David got emboldened because him and his boys were destroying giants. Stay humble and keep stewarding.) Verification Requirements for Instagram: Authentic: Represent a real person, registered business or entity. (The Word of God tests the character and authenticity of earthly/heavenly characters. See Hebrews 4:12) Unique: Represent the unique presence of the person or business. Only one account per person or business may be verified, with exceptions for language-specific accounts. We don't verify general interest accounts (example: @puppymemes). (We are all unique, fearfully and wonderfully made by the Father. See Psalm 139) Complete: Your account ⁠must be public⁠ and have a bio, profile photo and be active when you apply. (Our names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life. See Luke 10:20) Notable: Your account must represent a well-known, highly searched for person, brand or entity. We review accounts that are featured in multiple news sources, and we don't consider paid or sponsored media content as sources for review. (Jesus is the Person or Brand we represent as God's children, the most Notable name in Heaven. See John 14:6) Welcome to the Alpha Talk Tuesday podcast! This is a weekly show which aims to connect, empower and inspire you to pursue a life of greatness. Tune in live via video and/or dial-in.  On this podcast, we cover topics ranging from faith, family, finances, business, entrepreneurship, relationships, etc. Our messages are presented in a straightforward, relatable way that enables you to apply the principles mentioned in your life on the same day.  This podcast is hosted by Hakim Taliaferro, founder of The Taliaferro which is a luxury fragrance brand that creates signature fragrances for clients all over the world. To learn more about The Taliaferro, visit www.thetaliaferro.com. Thanks for tuning in!  To learn more about Alpha Talk, please visit our website at www.thealphatalk.com! Tune In Live: Live Tune-in link: https://meetings.dialpad.com/room/thealphatalk Dial in number: 973-957-7115 (No PIN required) Message us privately to be added to our auto-dial out list so you won't miss a call. Connect with Alpha Talk on your favorite social platform! Instagram: @thealphatalk   Facebook: @thealphatalk TikTok: @thealphatalk Twitter: @thealphatalk --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thealphatalk/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thealphatalk/support

Genesis 3:1-12 Sermon Notes:1) Naked Aggression | 1-52) Naked Ambition | 5-63) Naked and Afraid | 7-12Reflection questions:1. How does Eve mishandle/misremember/misstate the Word of God when talking with the serpent? (Compare Genesis 2:16-17 to 3:1-3.) How might an accurate remembering of the Word of God have helped her? See Psalm 119 (Especially vv. 9, 105) and Revelation 22:18-19.2. Read I John 2:15-17. How do you see Eve being tempted by the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life in Genesis 3:6? Now read Matthew 4:1- 11. How is Jesus tempted by the same temptations (and by the same tempter)? How does Jesus defeat those temptations?3. How does Adam respond (v.12) when God directly confronts him about his sin in v.11? Does his reaction show us anything about our own natural tendency to run from God when confronted with our sin? How does confidence of God's love counteract this natural/SINFUL tendency to run? See Psalm 139; compare vv.1-7 to vv.23-24.

“Help us, O God of our salvation, For the glory of Your name; And deliver us, and provide atonement for our sins, For Your name's sake! Why should the nations say, "Where is their God?" Let there be known among the nations in our sight The avenging of the blood of Your servants which has been shed. Let the groaning of the prisoner come before You; According to the greatness of Your power Preserve those who are appointed to die.” The Asaph who wrote Psalm 79 lived in the time of Jeremiah the prophet when the Babylonians captured the city of Jerusalem and destroyed it. He is mourning over the terrible atrocities that have taken place and pleading with God to bring relief.   Yesterday we mentioned the long-term consequences of our sins as Asaph was asking God not to “remember former iniquities against us but instead send His tender mercies speedily to meet us, for we have been brought very low” (v. 8). God's judgment for our sins can curse and impact our family for generations to come. But in the same way, our godly living can bless our future generations.   A good example of a godly family bringing great blessings on future generations is Jonathan and Sarah Edwards who lived in the early 1700's in New England. Both of them lived very disciplined and godly lives. God blessed them with 11 children. Years later a reporter tracked down 1,400 of their descendants and found among them 80 college presidents, professors, and deans, 100 lawyers, 66 physicians, 80 political leaders, three senators, three governors, and countless preachers and missionaries!   I'm convinced that many of the wonderful blessings, freedoms, and prosperity that we have enjoyed in America are a carryover from our forefathers who founded this great nation on Biblical principles. But now our sins that have grown out of our pride, covetousness, greed, and forgetting and removing God from both our public and private lives is catching up with us. We are quickly losing the blessings and experiencing the curse of sin.   Galatians 6:7-8 states this very clearly: “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.”   Today, in verses 9-12, we find Asaph interceding in prayer and pleading for God's help. His concern was for the glory of God's name (vv. 9, 12), and he felt that a miraculous deliverance for Judah would accomplish that, but no deliverance came. Asaph was quick to confess his own sins and the sins of his contemporaries, for it was not only their ancestors who had disobeyed the Lord (v. 8). (Psalms 25:11, 31:3, 65:3, and 78:38.)   In ancient days, a nation's victory was proof that its gods were stronger than the gods of the enemy, so the Babylonians taunted the Jews and asked, "Where is your God?" (v. 10) (See Psalm 42:3, 10; 115:2.) Moses used this same argument when he pled with God to forgive the nation (Ex. 32:12; Num. 14:13).   Asaph was also concerned about the justice of God. Twice he mentioned the pouring out of blood (vv. 3, 10), the slaughter of people, for the blood was very sacred to the Jews (Lev. 17). The shedding of animal blood at the altar at least covered the sins of the worshipers, but to what purpose was the shedding of so much human blood?   In verse 11, he prayed on the basis of the Lord's great compassion, perhaps remembering Jehovah's words to Moses (Ex. 33:12-23, Deut. 32:36). God had felt the burdens of the Jews when He called Moses to lead them out of Egypt (Ex. 2:24-25, 6:1-9), so surely, He would have pity on the prisoners and those ready to die.   The cross of Jesus Christ is for us today the only evidence we need that God loves us (Rom. 5:8). God has provided the “great atonement for our sins” (v. 9), and for His name's sake He will forgive us and bring healing to our souls and even to our nation if we will repent and believe!   God bless!

Hope can we find hope, transformation, and victory when we need it most? Today's guest, Caroline S. Cooper, guides us along the journey from emotional pain and trauma to healing.  Caroline Cooper is an author, podcast host, and speaker on topics related to mental health primarily from a Christian perspective. In addition to having personal experience with trauma and mental illness, Caroline is a Certified Peer Specialist in mental health and has a master's in Bible & Theology. Caroline shares how she tried to bury and ignore trauma and mood swings earlier in her life. She explains how unresolved trauma and untreated mood swings worsened and surfaced despite her attempts to hide her emotional struggle. God pulled her toward prayer and gave her a glimmer of hope. From there, Caroline began a journey of transformation and victory. Through counseling, treatment, and working through her issues with God's help, Caroline went through healing and recovery. She was transformed through the healing of her past and found victory. God then pulled Caroline into mental health ministry.  Cooper explains that victory isn't a single, dramatic achievement. She defines victory as the next right choice. We can experience a series of victories on the recovery journey, each of which begins with a tiny seed of hope. We discuss the importance of a support system and point out that God often uses people to serve in his work of healing in our lives. Caroline notes that most people do not want to talk about mental illness, but she emphasizes the need to seek healthy and supportive people to come alongside us in recovery.  She encourages all those struggling with emotional battles or trauma to reach out to trustworthy people for help. Cooper details the steps of emotional recovery. We must begin with hope, since we have no motivation or purpose without hope. We are unlikely to take any helpful action without at least a glimmer of hope. Recognize that God has a plan and purpose for you. Psalms 42, 43, and 44 are songs of deliverance that echo the importance of hoping in the Lord. Anything else will disappoint us. Once we have hope, we can take action. Transformation is defined as the change we need to make to become healthy. We don't need to change our essence, but we will instead change into the person God created us to be. With God's help, we can address needed change with confidence. Transformation begins in the mind and heart. We correct our unhealthy thoughts with the truth. Victory is defined as making the next right decision. Recovery involves a series of small victories. See Psalm 21:31 and 2 Corinthians 15:56-58. Cooper defines recovery as a cycle because it is ongoing. There's always room to grow. Each victory brings hope for the next step. We discuss how to recover from setbacks while on the journey. SAMHSA defines recovery as a process. Cooper encourages those who experienced a setback to start again by finding hope. Caroline also notes that having a support network helps us recover from setbacks. Connect with Caroline via email at caroline@ingodscorner.org. Find her podcast and get a copy of her new book, In This Corner: Battling Trauma and Mental Illness from Inside the Ring, on her website, accessible at carolinescooper.com or ingodscorner.org Get inspired now and get Tina Yeager's newest release, Upcycled: Crafted for a Purpose! The book is available on Amazon, Bold Vision Books, or wherever books are sold. Visit Tina's website for craft videos and more at https://www.tinayeager.com/upcycled/

Psalm 34 is one of my favorites!  I truly dug into this Psalm after hearing the group Shane & Shane sing it.  It is just so good.  The song and the psalm.  Is that redundant?  It is believed this psalm was written after David faked insanity in front of King Achish/Abimelech.  This story is in 1 Samuel 21.  David is on the run from Saul and he gets captured by the Philistines.  They bring him to the king reminding him that this is the guy the Israelites sang about “Saul has killed his thousands and David his ten thousands”.  We captured him!  David had to think quick on his feet and chose to act insane.  He was even drooling.  Chattering away to himself…probably.  I would have.  The king takes one look at him and says he thinks they will be ok if they let him go.  Poor guy.  War had really taken its toll on him.  It's a shame.Keep learning:Follow along with the full show notes on the website Listen to this week's playlist on Apple Music or SpotifyRecommended Bibles (if you purchase via these affiliate links, you will support Bible Talk!): NIV Chronological Study Bible, Hardcover NIV Life Application Study Bible The Passion Translation New Testament The Jesus Bible Artist Edition NLT Wide Margin Bible NET Full Notes Bible NRSV CS Lewis Bible NKJV Wiersbe Study Bible Mr. Pen Highlighters ---Check out the Nothin' But Fine blog and website.Follow us on social media:InstagramFacebookTwitterYouTubeWant everything in your inbox? Subscribe to the Nothin' But Fine newsletter!---Check out the Nothin' But Fine blog and website.Follow us on social media: Instagram Facebook Twitter YouTube Want everything in your inbox? Subscribe to the Nothin' But Fine newsletter!

What do you do when disaster strikes? Who do you turn to when you are overwhelmed with trouble or circumstances beyond your control?  I would suggest that you keep Psalm 46 handy! We need to remember that Psalm 46 was written to celebrate the victory that the LORD of Hosts gave to Hezekiah and the people in Jerusalem when He sent an angel and destroyed 185,000 invading Assyrian soldiers in one night. In this song of celebration, we learn that we should always trust the LORD of hosts, our creator God to bring us deliverance! In verses 1-3, we find that our God is a tower of strength. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” We can always depend on the “all sufficiency” of God! In verses 4-7, we are told that God is our river of joy! He is the One who gives us security! We don't need to fear if the “nations rage or if all the kingdoms of the world move against us”.  Because all God has to do is “utter His voice and the earth itself will melt”. Yes, it was at “the break of dawn” that King Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem saw the dead bodies of the enemy soldiers scattered across the fields surrounding their walls. Now in verses 8-11, we “come and behold the works of the LORD”, because He will be glorified! We see the supremacy of our great God! The scene is on the fields surrounding Jerusalem where the Assyrian soldiers lay dead, their weapons and equipment scattered and broken. There had been no battle, but the angel of the Lord left this evidence behind to encourage the faith of the people. "Come and see the amazing things (desolations) the Lord has made! He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariot in the fire.” The Lord defeated and disarmed His enemies and destroyed their weapons, and they could attack no more. Then God Himself speaks! He says, "Be still, and know that I am God”! “Be still” literally means "Take your hands off! Relax!" We like to be "hands-on" people and manage our own lives, but God is God, and we are but His servants. Because Hezekiah and his leaders allowed God to be God, He delivered them from their enemies. That was the way King Hezekiah had prayed: "Now therefore, O Lord our God, I pray, save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know You are the Lord God, You alone" (2 Kings 19:19). The Lord calls Himself "the God of Jacob," and we remember how often Jacob got into trouble because he got his hands on circumstances and tried to play God. There is a time to obey God and act, but until then, we had better take our hands off and allow Him to work in His own time and His own way. If we seize His promises by faith with both hands, we won't be able to meddle! God allows us to get into "tight places" so our faith will grow and He will be exalted. (See Psalm 22:27; 64:9; 86:9; 102:15.) The theme of the next psalm is the exaltation of God in all the earth (Psalm 47:9), and it's likely Hezekiah wrote it. People boast of the great things they have done and never give God credit for anything, not even the strength and breath He gives them freely. But that will change. "The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the Lord alone shall be exalted in that day" (Isa. 2:11). Yes, we live in the day of the weapons of “mass distractions”! Our cell phones, our computers, our TV's, and a thousand other things clamor for our attention! It is extremely difficult to be still, to be quiet before God, and listen to Him.  Jesus told us when we pray to “enter the closet and shut the door” (Matthew 6:6). Shut the door to all the noise and distractions around you and take the time to “be still and know that He is God.” My friend, when you do this, you will find, like Hezekiah, that our God is a “very present help in time of trouble.” God bless!

As you read Psalms 42 and 43 you can't help but feel the despair of the writer. At least three times in these two Psalms he asked the question, “Why are you cast down, O my soul, why are you disquieted with me”? (vv. 42:5, 11; 43:5) And he begins this section of verses with the statement, “My soul is cast down within me” (42:6). He feels like God has forgotten him (v. 9). He is hearing the enemies of God mocking him and his God by asking, “Where is your God?” (vv. 3, 10). This sounds a lot like the mockers and enemies of God in our country today! Whenever there is a shooting or something bad happens and the Christians say they are praying for our country and the situation, they mock and declare, “Where is your God now”.  “Your prayers didn't help at all!”.  Basically, they are saying, “We don't need God! We need more laws and gun control”. So, what was the response of the Psalmist in these two chapters?  He first expressed a deep longing and desire for His God (vv. 1-2). He went on to say that when he remembered their mocking and disdain, and what it used to be like when he was free to go and worship with the multitudes that loved the Lord, he was overwhelmed with sadness (v. 4). Now in verses 6 and 7, the emotional and spiritual landscape changes from drought to a storm, with the writer feeling like he was drowning in sorrow and pain. The Jordan River has its source in the Hermon range, and the rains and melting snow would turn the rivulets into cascades of water and dangerous cataracts, a picture of intense suffering (69:1-2; 88:7; Jonah 2:4). "Mizar" means "littleness," and certainly the writer felt very small in the midst of that storm. But he made a wise decision when he decided to remember God and not "the good old days" (v. 6). The cascades, cataracts, and waves were in God's hands and the psalmist had nothing to fear. This reminds us of the night Jesus walked on the water and frightened His disciples, yet He was in full command of the situation (Matt. 14:22-33). God was in command (v. 8; see Psalm 33:9; 44:4; 71:3; 91:11), a new day would dawn, and the situation would look different. Like David's storm experience recorded in Psalm 29, we should see God on His throne and anticipate the glory and peace after the storm. Especially this week, believers should remember that the waves of God's wrath went over Jesus on the cross when He experienced His Calvary "baptism" (Matt. 20:22; Luke 12:50). It might be “Friday”, but Sunday is coming!!!!  Meanwhile, God can give us "songs in the night" (v.8) as we wait for the dawning of a new day (Psalm 77:4-6; Job 35:10; Matt. 26:30; Acts 16:25). In verse 8, the writer used Jehovah instead of Elohim, and this was a turning point in his difficult experience. Jehovah is the God of the covenant, the faithful God who cares for His people. He is the God who showers His people with lovingkindness, gives them promises they can claim when they pray, and hears them when they praise and worship. The writer didn't have to go to Jerusalem to worship; he could worship God right where he was! The hand of God was with him in the daytime and the song of the Lord in the long hours of the night. Everything might be changing, but the Lord was still his Rock—stable, strong, and unchanging. (See Psalm 18:2, 31, 46; Ex, 33:22; Deut. 32:4; 1 Sam. 2:2.) Today, may the Lord help us to remember how great and powerful our God is, despite how bad the storms of ungodliness and evil rage around us! And we should always remember that He never changes and has promised to always be with us and never forsake us (Hebrews 13:5-8)! God bless!

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In the first five verses of this Psalm, David gives us a beautiful example of why and how we should praise the LORD for all that He has done for us. The LORD lifts us up out of the horrible pit and miry clay and sets our feet on the Solid Rock of Jesus Christ! When this happens, we have a new song to sing in praise and worship of our wonderful Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Now in verses 6-10, David moves from the rock, and he goes to the sanctuary of God. After all God had done for David, how could the king express to the Lord his appreciation for His mercies? He knows that he could bring sacrifices to the altar, as was required under Old Testament Law.  But David knew that wasn't God's first desire. This doesn't mean that such sacrifices were wrong, or that God didn't want His people to offer them, but that God wanted their hearts first of all. Throughout the Old Testament, the Lord made it clear that He could not accept sacrifices unless the worshiper showed sincere devotion, dedication, and obedience. No doubt David heard how Saul learned that important lesson after a victory over the Amalekites. Saul made excuses for his disobedience by saying he kept the animals for sacrifices.  But remember Samuel told Saul, "Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, As in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams” (1 Samuel 15:22).   The Old Testament is full of verses that repeat this important truth (See Psalm 50:8-15; 51:16-17; Prov. 21:3; Isa. 1:11-17; Jer. 7:22-23; Hos. 6:6; Mic. 6:6-8). In the Gospel of Mark in the New Testament we are taught this same lesson. “So the scribe said to Him, "Well said, Teacher. You have spoken the truth, for there is one God, and there is no other but He. And to love Him with all the heart, with all the understanding, with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself, is more than all the whole burnt offerings and sacrifices." (Mark 12:32-33). In verse 6, sacrifice means any animal whose blood was offered at the altar, followed by a communal meal. Offering refers to the meal offering that could accompany the sacrifices, and the burnt offering symbolized total dedication to the Lord. The sin offering was given to cover specific offenses and bring reconciliation between the offender and God. All of these were fulfilled in Jesus Christ whose sacrifice on the cross satisfied the justice of God once and for all, for time and eternity (Lev. 1-7; Heb. 10:1-17). “My ears You have opened", refer to David's readiness to hear and obey God's will (1 Sam. 9:15; 20:2; Isa. 48:8; 50:4-5; Matt. 13:9, 43; Acts 7:51, 57). The passage is paraphrased in Hebrews 10:5-10 as "a body you have prepared for me,".  This is the body in which Messiah served the Father here on earth. An open ear means a yielded will and a surrendered body. When the heart delights in God's law, the will has no problem obeying (119:11; Deut. 6:6; 11:18; Prov. 3:3, 7:3; Jer. 31:33). "Behold, I come", means "Here I am, ready to obey" (see 1 Sam. 3:4, 6,8; Isa. 6:8). This of course is a prophecy of Jesus the Messiah coming to earth to be the sacrifice for our sins in a human body (Hebrews 2:14-15; Philippians 2:5-11) David was enthusiastic about telling others what the Lord had done for him, and he is a good example for us to follow (22:25; 26:12; 35:18; 111:1; 149:1). Among the worshipers at the sanctuary, “the great assembly,” the king gave glory to the Lord. This also reminds us of our Lord's resurrection praises (Psalm 22:31; Heb. 2:12). Today, we should also “delight to do His will” and go to the “assembly” of believers to declare “the good news of His Righteousness, His faithfulness, His salvation, His lovingkindness and His truth”, so that others may come to know and love the LORD too! God bless!

"LORD, make me to know my end, And what is the measure of my days, That I may know how frail I am." In the previous Psalm, David had been dealing with the terrible consequences of his sins. He had confessed them and found God's forgiveness. But he is still down and needs support from those around him. Yet it seems according to Psalm 39, that instead of words of encouragement from his friends and associates, he finds out that people are gossiping and slandering him. Also, his enemies are using this as an opportunity to tear him down. David's first response in dealing with this is to keep silent. To keep his mouth shut and not try to defend himself or argue with those who are maligning him. But while he kept silent (v. 2), his heart began to burn with anger, worry and fear. Do you ever feel this way? For years I've heard it said that Christians are the only ones who shoot their wounded. How sad! It should be just the opposite with love, support and grace given to those who have fallen and need help getting back up (Galatians 6:1-5). Not only was David silent, but he also became despondent, and he turned to the LORD in prayer (v. 4). When we find ourselves burying our true feelings and creating physical and emotional pain for ourselves, then it's time to talk to the Lord and seek His help. David knew that life was short and that the days would pass swiftly; he also knew that he was frail and that one day would die. He began to measure his days (Psalm 90:12; 119:84) and saw that they were but a handbreadth (four fingers) and his age nothing in God's sight. (See Psalm 90:1-11.) "Certainly every man at his best state is but vapor." (v. 5). In OKJV, it reads, “is altogether vanity”. This sounds like a statement from Ecclesiastes by David's son Solomon. David repeated the thought in verse 11, “…Surely every man is vapor (or vanity)”. The Hebrew word translated "vanity" means "a breath, emptiness" (see Psalm 62:9; 144:4; Job 14:2; Eccl. 6:12). Maybe James had this passage in mind when he wrote James 4:14; “Whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” The best description for “vanity” is trying to capture a beautiful rainbow colored soap bubble that the children blow and when you touch it, it disappears! In verse 6, David compared life to an "empty show," with shadow people bustling about, trying to get rich. Busy for what? Wealthy for what? Years later, Solomon raised the same questions in Ecclesiastes 2:18-19: “Then I hated all my labor in which I had toiled under the sun, because I must leave it to the man who will come after me. And who knows whether he will be wise or a fool? Yet he will rule over all my labor in which I toiled and in which I have shown myself wise under the sun. This also is vanity.” Life is swift, life is short, and for most people, life is futile. In modern vocabulary, people are living for the image and not the reality. We are busy and overwhelmed with the tyranny of the urgent and forgetting what is really important. And if we are not careful, we will look back over our lives and realize that we never really accomplished anything significant. Yesterday in my message at Friendly Community, I shared this quote: “Without God, life has no purpose, and without purpose, life has no meaning. Without meaning, life has no significance or hope.” My friend, a life with purpose is a life that is lived to glorify God. The Apostle Paul put it this way: “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Today, does your life feel empty without meaning? Or, are you living a life of purpose and significance that is always glorifying our great God, Lord and Savior Jesus Christ?

Isaiah 56:9-57:21 Sermon Notes:1. The Wrong Leaders | 56:9-12 2. The Wrong gODS | 57:1-13 3. The Right-er of All Wrongs | 57:14-21; cf 57:1-2, 13 Reflection questions:1. How would you describe Israel's leaders in Is 56:9-12? (Compare to Ezekiel 34:1-16.) How would Jesus be a better shepherd? See Psalm 23 and John 10:1-16. 2. What are the some of the ways that Israel's worship in Is 57 had gone astray? Was Israel's main problem laziness (lack of effort) or misguided effort? Consider Isaiah 30:15-18, as well. 3. What was God asking Israel to do in order to be healed? Consider Isaiah 57:15, 18-19; Psalm 51:16-17.

Jesus taught us in His “Sermon on the Mount” to pray for our enemies. "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matthew 5:43-45). Well, Psalm 35 is a good example of this as David prayed for his enemies the same way he would have prayed for his mother. David had become a national hero when he killed Goliath. King Saul ask him to lead the armies of Israel out in battle against the Philistines which he did very successfully. His fame spread even to greater heights, and it wasn't long before the ladies of Israel were greeting him and his returning army with songs saying, “Saul has slain his thousands, but David has slain his ten-thousands” (1 Samuel 18:5-8). King Saul becomes insanely jealous and turns against him and David goes from being a hero to a zero. The very men that had become his best friends and companions in battle also turned against him and begin to spread vicious lies about him to King Saul and anyone else who would listen. David has to flee for his life and turns to the LORD for help as he learns to deal with this terrible hurt! As you read his many Psalms and prayers that he wrote during this period it is so obvious that he is human and has feelings and emotions just like we have. You had to notice that in this Psalm, David first prayed an imprecatory prayer asking the LORD to fight against his enemies. But now David begins to reason with the Lord as he asked for help declaring and stating the evidence that he is innocent of what they are accusing him of (v. 11). The enemy depended on lies and false "malicious" witnesses who accused him of being a traitor. (See Psalm 27:12; Deut. 19:15-21; 1 Sam. 24:10.) Quite the contrary, it was Saul and his officers who were the traitors, for they returned evil for the good David did to them. On two occasions, David could have killed Saul, but instead, David returned good for evil (1 Sam. 24, 26; and see Psalm 38:20; 109:5; Jer. 18:18-23). Later Saul even admitted that David was the better man (1 Sam. 24:17). It pained David deeply that the men he had served with in Saul's army had betrayed him (see Psalm 41:9; 55:12-14). The very people who he thought had his back were stabbing him in the back! David had prayed for them when they were in need, but his prayers returned to him unanswered (v. 13), “But as for me, when they were sick, My clothing was sackcloth; I humbled myself with fasting; And my prayer would return to my own heart.” David received a blessing because he prayed, but God couldn't send a blessing to such evil people. The only "return" David got from his prayers was evil for good, so he asked the Lord to send him good to compensate for their evil. Those who criticize David for his imprecatory prayer in verses 4-8, should remember that first he prayed for their help and healing. Saul's men "tore David apart" with their wicked words (v. 15). Like court jesters, at their meals they made him the butt of their vicious jokes (v. 16, and see Ps. 69:12). On the question "How long?" David knew that God would eventually reward him for his faithfulness, but he didn't know when. David's first praise to God in verses 9-10 was personal, but his second expression of praise in verse 18 is in the congregation with the saints. When we remember that “Vengeance is mine, I will repay says the LORD” and then we “return evil for good” (Romans 12:19-21), we will also be able to say with David, “I will give You thanks in the great assembly; I will praise You among many people.” Amen! God bless!

One of the things I love about enjoying a variety of foods is connecting with the cultures behind the flavors. Korea's short growing season and cold climate made pickled and preserved vegetables a necessity (and delicious). Latin influences and an abundance of chili peppers gave us the tastes of the southwest. And bacon cheeseburgers are just one of the reasons America is awesome! If you're willing to be a little adventurous, you can tour the world with your tastebuds! Food connects us like nothing else; it has the power to cross cultural boundaries. Friendships are made through the sharing of meals. We take casseroles to those who are hurting and bring cake to those who are celebrating! A meal shared both nourishes us and allows us to be vulnerable with each other. Is it any wonder that the most significant expression of the presence of Jesus in our lives takes place in a shared meal around a table? This month, we've heard the call from John's Gospel to "come and see Jesus." Again and again, those words invited us to come close and know Jesus for ourselves. So today at Kansas Christian Church, we'll go to the Psalms and hear, not come and see, but "taste and see that the Lord is good" (Psalm 34:8). It's an invitation to come near to God and experience his goodness firsthand.

Forgiveness isn't intended to be a heavy burden for those who have been deeply wronged.  Jesus' invitation was, “Come to Me, all you who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you REST.” (Matthew 11:28-30)  The invitation of the Lord Jesus Christ is to come to Him and find REST for our souls!   Here's the definition of forgiveness: it's a commitment by the offended to pardon graciously the repentant from moral liability, and to be reconciled — though it doesn't mean that all consequences are necessarily eliminated.   What's the hardest part of forgiveness? — To STOP THINKING about the offense; to keep going over and over it in one's mind.  It's a huge problem to be thinking about it, because then we're DEFINED by the wrong committed against us.  Bitterness is like taking poison to get back at someone else.   By the way, this is where we need the Psalms; this is where we need the Psalter.  See Psalm 73 where Asaph is seeing how the wicked prosper, and he seems to have done the right thing for nothing.  If we move through this Psalm, it will change our world.   Steps to be free from bitterness and resentment after divorce, even if your husband has never repented:   Wait for God's justice, and trust His providence.  Think of Joseph in Genesis: “You intended this for evil, but God intended it for good.”  This is why it's SO CRITICAL to be in a local church with a high view of Scripture. Listen to wise people — you need community!  And you need the community of the Redeemed.  Pursue God's blessing for yourself and those close to you.  Psalm 73:15 is the turning point of the chapter — “If I had said, ‘I will speak thus,' I would have betrayed the generation of Your children.”  Also Hebrews 12:15 … “See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled.”  Bitterness can poison those around us, as well as ourselves! Call bitterness what it is — it's sin.  It's not justified.  We don't have a right to be defined by anger and hatred.  One of the most difficult times to repent of our own transgressions is when we've been deeply wronged… it's a dangerous place to be.  Be careful, when you're sinned against, that you don't fail to deal with the things you need to deal with in your own world.   Also important: be in a good church, hear the Word preached, meditate on JESUS — you will NOT be disappointed.    Please check out Pastor Brauns' book, Unpacking Forgiveness from Crossway: https://www.crossway.org/books/unpacking-forgiveness-tpb/   Visit his website here: https://chrisbrauns.com/   Join our Christ-Dependent Single Motherhood Facebook community, for Christian single moms like you, whether you're divorced, separated, widowed, or never married! https://bit.ly/CDSMFacebook   Send us a note at christdependentsinglemoms@gmail.com          

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas' website.Chapter 15 tells us about our relationship to Jesus (vv.1-17), using three different analogies.15:1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. 2 He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunesto make it bear more fruit. 3 You have already been cleansedby the word that I have spoken to you.15:1 is the last of the 7 "I Am" statements. The 7 signs concluded in John 11, the 7 "I Am" statements here in John 15. The 7 confessions of faith will not conclude until John 20.Israel is often represented in the OT by a vine or vineyard. See Psalm 80:8-18; Isaiah 5:1-7; Jeremiah 2:21; Ezekiel 15:1-5; 17:1-21; 19:10-15; Hosea 10:1-2.4 Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing. 6 Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and becomemy disciples.First analogy: Jesus is the vine; we are the branches (v.1ff).We are therefore wholly dependent on him.Pruning (v.2) is literally cleaning.There is a word play in the original Greek: hairei (takes away) v. kathairei (cleans). Consider the right and wrong understandings of pruning.The fruit, in context = those who believe the message.The vine is Jesus, not the church.Second analogy: Jesus is the teacher; we are the students [disciples] (v.7ff).Re: v.8, in one sense, Christians are disciples.In another, we are always becoming disciples (v.8). As Ignatius of Antioch was being led to his martyrdom in Rome (c.107 AD), he wrote, "Now I am beginning to be a disciple" (Ign. Rom. 5:3).9 As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. 11 I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 I do not call you servantsany longer, because the servantdoes not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father. 16 You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name. 17 I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another.Third analogy: Jesus is a friend; we are his friends (v.12ff). Many ancient writers spoke of true love being willing to surrender its life for its friends (v.13).Although the concept of fruit-bearing in the N.T. is considerably broader than evangelism, verse 16 suggests the mission is in view.For the seven types of fruit in the N.T., Click here.Read also Tom Jones' helpful article on fruit in John 15.Chapter 15 also tells us about persecution (vv.18-27).18 “If the world hates you, be aware that it hated me before it hated you. 19 If you belonged to the world, the world would love you as its own. Because you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world—therefore the world hates you.The world and the kingdom don't mix. There is tension, rejection, polarization...Seven "signs" that we belong to the world:Overly concerned with not appearing fanatical, intolerant, or otherwise politically incorrectLifestyle: materialism, greed, level of givingHeart: envy, jealousy, lust, covetingTongue: coarse language, gossip, deceit, angry outburstsWe don't make room in schedule for holiness (meditation, prayer, fasting, silence, study...)Online secretsMore time in virtual worlds than making a difference in God's world.20 Remember the word that I said to you, ‘Servantsare not greater than their master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you; if they kept my word, they will keep yours also. 21 But they will do all these things to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. 22 If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have sin; but now they have no excuse for their sin. 23 Whoever hates me hates my Father also. 24 If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not have sin. But now they have seen and hated both me and my Father. 25 It was to fulfill the word that is written in their law, ‘They hated me without a cause.'The world hates us because it hated Him. There is no avoiding this. See Matthew 5:10-12; Luke 6:22-23,26; 2 Timothy 3:12.We have ceased being worldly, or are at least earnestly striving to be holy. This galls the worldly.They persecute us because they do not know God.No one who rejects Christ accepts God (v.23).This is all in fulfillment of scripture. (See Psalm 35:19 and 69:4; Psalm 69 is the most mined OT passage in the NT.)26 “When the Advocatecomes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who comes from the Father, he will testify on my behalf. 27 You also are to testify because you have been with me from the beginning.The Spirit/Counselor/Advocate will testify to Jesus -- through us (vv.26-27)!The Spirit comes from the Father (vv.26-27). Thus the context is mission, not procession; the ancient Christian creeds, which state that the Spirit proceeds from the Father (and the Son) cannot appeal to this passage for theological justification.In this chapter, several other Johannine themes (themes in John's theology) are found. How many points of contact with other passages do you recognize?Thought questions:Which metaphor about my relationship with Christ most speak to me: vine/branch, teacher/student, or friend/friend?Am I bearing fruit for Christ in my life?Am I ever opposed by others for the spiritual stands I take for Christ?

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Psalm 22 The Old Testament and the New Testament tell the same story of Jesus Christ. The entire Bible is all about Jesus and the fulfilled prophecy of His salvation. Psalm 22 greatly details the crucifixion of Jesus Christ a thousand years before He was born. This Old Testament picture of Calvary first shares the amazing prophecy of the cross. “O My God, I cry in the daytime, but You do not hear; and in the night season, and am not silent” (Psalm 22:2). This verse mimics some of Jesus' final words on the cross, as recorded in Matthew 27. Supernatural darkness came over the Earth at noonday, making it both day and night. Jesus was mocked and scorned, a prophecy fulfilled, not by Himself, but by His enemies. “I am poured out like water, and all My bones are out of joint; My heart is like wax; It has melted within Me” (Psalm 22:14). According to the Gospels, Jesus's bones were never broken; rather, He was pierced, and blood and water spilled from His side. These verses also prophesied that He'd also be stripped of his clothing, and lots cast for His garments. Second, this passage describes the agonizing passion of the cross; no one has suffered like Jesus did. To pay for our redemption and forgiveness, Jesus suffered at the hands of three. First, He suffered at the holy hand of God; in the moment Jesus bore our sins, God's eyes were too pure to look upon Him. As He was dying, Jesus was forsaken by the Father. (See Psalm 22:1.) He also suffered at the hateful hand of man, as verse 6 says, “But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised by the people.” And He suffered at the hellish hands of Satan; all of Hell's demonic power was concentrated upon the cross. But thank God, Psalm 22 also tells of the abounding provision of the cross. As a prophet, Jesus declares the Father; and as our great High Priest, He delivers the faithful. Adrian Rogers says, “Salvation is more than having our sins forgiven; it is coming to a relationship where we can know God intimately and personally for ourselves.” Apply it to your life Do you serve Jesus Christ—the prophet and priest? Scriptures proclaim that this world belongs to Him, and He is coming back to it, soon.

Athirst is my soul for the living God. When shall I go and behold the face of God? (See Psalm 42:3)What a beautiful statement to be able to make.  The word “athirst” is a word not used that often but worth reflecting on all by itself.  It reveals a longing and a desire to be quenched not only by God, but by the “Living God!”  And to “behold the face of God.”How often do you long for such a thing?  How often do you let the desire for God burn within your soul?  This is a wonderful desire and longing to have.  In fact, the desire itself is enough to begin bringing great satisfaction and fulfillment in life.There is a story of an elderly monk who lived his life as a hermit being a priest and chaplain for a group of monastic sisters.  This monk lived a very quiet life of solitude, prayer, study and work most of his life.  One day, toward the end of his life, he was asked how he enjoyed his life all these years.  Immediately and without hesitation his face became radiant and overwhelmed with a deep joy.  And he said with the deepest of conviction, “What a glorious life I have!  Every day I'm preparing to die.” This monk had one focus in life.  It was a focus on the face of God.  Nothing else really mattered.  What he longed for and anticipated each and every day was that moment when he would enter into that glorious Beatific Vision and see God face to face.  And it was the thought of this that enabled him to press on, day after day, year after year, offering Mass and worshiping God in preparation for that glorious meeting.What do you thirst for?  How would you complete that statement?  “Athirst is my soul for...?”  For what?  Too often we thirst for those things that are so artificial and temporary.  We try so hard to be happy and yet we so often fall short.  But if we can let our hearts be inflamed with longing for that which is essential, that which we were made for, then everything else in life will fall into place.  If God is placed at the center of all our longings, all our hopes and all our desires, we will actually begin to “behold the face of God” here and now.  Even the slightest glimpse of God's glory will satiate us so much that it will transform our whole outlook on life and give us a clear and certain direction in all we do.  Every relationship will be affected, every decision we make will be orchestrated by the Holy Spirit, and the purpose and meaning of life we are searching for will be discovered.  Every time we think about our lives we will become radiant as we ponder the journey we are on and long to put it into full motion anticipating the eternal reward awaiting us in the end.Reflect, today, upon your “thirst.”  Don't waste your life on empty promises.  Don't get caught up in earthly attachments.  Seek God.  Seek His face.  Seek His will and His glory and you will never want to turn back from the direction this longing takes you.Jesus, my Living God, may I one day behold Your full splendor and glory.  May I see Your face and make that goal the center of my life.  May everything I am be caught up in this burning desire, and may I bask in the joy of this journey.  Jesus, I trust in You.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2022 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.