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This episode addresses a tension many believers feel but rarely understand: why truth, rules, and even Scripture can feel lifeless or oppressive. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 3, Dr. Jim explains that the issue is not the Word of God, but the absence of dependence on the Spirit of God. True Christianity is not self-powered obedience but Spirit-empowered life.Topics DiscussedThe meaning of “the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life”Why truth without the Spirit produces frustration rather than transformationHow rules and standards provoke rebellion when divorced from graceThe difference between self-effort Christianity and Spirit-enabled obedienceWhy the solution is not rejecting the Word, but relying on the SpiritKey TakeawaysThe Bible is never the problem; dependence on self is.Obedience without the Spirit leads to defeat, not freedom.The Spirit gives life to truth, enabling joyful, willing obedience.Christianity only works when Christ Himself is the source of power.Real freedom comes through surrender and faith, not self-discipline alone. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.
Canon Stephen Sharpe, ICKSP, serves as Parochial Vicar at St. Joseph Shrine in Detroit, Michigan. He was ordained in 2020. In Today's Show: What do traditional priests like Canon Sharpe think of the Divine Mercy Chaplet? Is the communion fast supposed to be one hour before Mass or one hour before communion? Can those who commit apostasy repent? How can I maintain a spiritual life with a puppy? Was "Saul the Persecutor" Paul the Apostle? Will only 144,000 people enter heaven? Cannon Sharpe's thoughts on the decrease of Catholicism in the Philippines. How does Prayer fit into God's plan? Does the ICKSP have community as a part of its charism? According to the Rubrics, who should be saying the communion antiphon? Penitential suggestions for Lent. Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!
God told Moses to speak to the rock, but the problem was...Moses was angry. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
It didn't go well when Moses struck the rock for the second time. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
In one instance Moses was told to smite the rock, but the second time he was only told to speak to it. What did he do? ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
Join Kasey Olander, Kelley Mathews, and Jessica Hooten Wilson as they unpack how the books we read shape our imagination, desires, and empathy, as well as providing practical habits for making reading a life-forming spiritual practice. Time codes 3:58 Reading as Counter-Cultural 6:35 How Christians Should Think about Reading 12:05 Reading Books Other than the Bible 15:00 How to Decide What to Read 19:29 Reading as an Embodied Experience 21:36 Reading Helps us Understand Ourselves 26:25 Good Practices to Grow the Reading Life 36:58 Closing Thoughts Resources Jessica Hooten Wilson's Reading for the Love of God: How to Read as a Spiritual Practice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Join Kasey Olander, Kelley Mathews, and Jessica Hooten Wilson as they unpack how the books we…
It was a terrible condition that the people of Israel were facing...a lack of water. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
Why was it a problem when Moses smote the rock? ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
A study of John 15:1-13Subscribe to Grace on Youtube
The spiritual life cannot be fully understood or lived until the believer grasps the distinction between positional truth and experiential truth. Learning God's Word is always the starting point for the Christian way of life (1 Pet 2:2; 2 Tim 3:16–17). Until the believer orients to what God has already accomplished at initial salvation, he cannot discern what God now expects in fellowship (Rom 6:3–11). Confusion or neglect of Scripture inevitably drives the Christian into legalism, emotionalism, ritualism, activism, or frustration (Col 2:8, 20–23; Gal 3:1–3). Bible doctrine learned and applied provides the foundation for executing the spiritual life (Rom 12:2; Jam 1:22). God's riches for the believer include both positional and experiential blessings, and the former establishes the ground on which the latter are enjoyed (Eph 1:3; Col 2:6–7). Full study notes here: https://thinkingonscripture.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/10-The-Believers-Riches-in-Christ.pdf Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div.
Psalm 42 talks about God as our rock. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
Psalm 42 talks about the spiritual journey of a man who has lost his way. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
Why is my soul cast down? ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
What does it mean to live a 'spiritual' life?To me, it means living and doing differently than the majority...and leaning into this avenue has transformed my life in many many ways.Life is hard. But when you live from the 'inside out', and in alignment with Who You are Meant to Be, you life a rich, deeply satisfying life that can handle the hurdles and challenges thrown at you.My gift to you: My yearly Fresh Beginnings Detox. Please enjoy.And know how truly amazing you are... XO. Karenhttps://www.warriorwomanfitness.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Warrior-Woman-Body-and-Life-DETOX-2026.pdfBook a complimentary Body Breakthrough strategy call with Karen and move into YOUR Best Body and Life beyond 40! www.warriorwomanfitness.com/apply
Homily of Fr. Mike O'Connor from Mass December 30, 2025 at Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church in Bay St. Louis, MS. Readings 1 John 2:12-17 Luke 2:36-40 If you would like to donate to OLG and her livestream ministry, please go to https://olgchurch.net/give
This is it—the final episode of our partnership with the Church Leadership Institute. It's hard to believe how quickly these years have flown by.In this episode, Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson look back on what this collaboration has meant, what we've accomplished together, and where the road leads from here.THIS EPSODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Markus Watson reflects on starting the podcast during a time of personal transition and describes how the partnership with the Church Leadership Institute began in a providential way.Markus Watson shares that joining the Church Leadership Institute's podcast team was not an answer to a specific prayer, but an unexpected opportunity that resonated with his calling.Tod Bolsinger explains that the Church Leadership Institute started as a place for researching adaptive change while directly working with leaders and practitioners.Leaders benefit most from research that connects theory with real-life contexts, especially in smaller church settings.Churches and leaders need resources that are accessible to smaller congregations, not just large organizations.Tod Bolsinger emphasizes that making adaptive change in smaller churches can feel as difficult as changing one's family of origin.Experimentation, contextual cohorts, and digital platforms proved effective for spreading adaptive leadership resources across diverse church settings.Delivering effective leadership development depends on understanding the specific context of each congregation.You cannot develop adaptive capacity simply by consuming information; leaders must actively practice adaptive work.Tod Bolsinger stresses that you cannot outwork a changing world, highlighting the importance of discernment and adaptability rather than relying solely on hard work.Crisis situations, like the pandemic, require leaders to learn new ways of thinking, rather than applying old solutions to new challenges.Significant changes, such as the rise of telecommuting, political shifts, and technological advances, have rapidly altered the leadership landscape.Tod Bolsinger notes that the main challenge now is developing adaptive capacity in entire congregations, not just among pastors or staff.Developing adaptive discipleship within a congregation requires a shift from programmatic solutions to cultivating a transformative organizational culture.Markus Watson explores experimenting with new podcast formats and continuing conversations with leaders to support spiritual life and leadership growth.Tod Bolsinger charges leaders to embrace a posture of curiosity, prioritizing learning and question-asking over being the “learned expert.”RELEVANT RESOURCES AND LINKS:Church Leadership InstituteRelated episodes:100. The Spiritual Life of a Leader, with Tod Bolsinger116. Power, Vulnerability, Rest, with Tod Bolsinger144. Is the Church Failing to Make Disciples? with Tod BolsingerSend me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Get Becoming Leaders of Shalom for free HERE.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.
Psalm 42 really tugs at my heart. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
28.12.25 Your Spiritual Life Will Save You [Ps. Jon] by Maretul Har UK
Recover Your Soul: A Spiritual Path to a Happy and Healthy Life
Send one way text to Rev Rachel While I am away this month, I'm sharing another listener-favorite replay from the Recover Your Soul Bonus Podcast. This episode comes from our reflections on Al-Anon through the lens of the Recover Your Soul Process, exploring one of the most life-changing shifts on this journey: the surrender that frees us from codependency.So many of us have lived in the exhausting cycle of trying to fix, control, or anticipate someone else's behavior. We analyze every interaction. We hold silent resentments. We tense our bodies hoping we can make everything okay. But eventually the strain becomes too much. We feel tired. We feel defeated. And we know something has to change.In today's episode, we reflect on a powerful reading from In All Our Affairs that asks the simple, courageous question:Am I willing to give up the struggle?This invitation isn't resignation. It's remembering your own wholeness and handing back what was never yours to carry. It's letting go of the quiet contempt, the overthinking, the need to understand every detail, and the belief that your safety depends on managing someone else's life.When we choose surrender, we choose peace.When we stop trying to control the uncontrollable, something softens.If this episode speaks to you, you may love listening each week to the Recover Your Soul Bonus Podcast. Apple Podcast subscribers and Patreon members receive an extra episode every Friday, a beautiful w Start your journey with the FREE Recover Your Soul™ 9-Step Mini-Workbook- A gentle spiritual path to healing, letting go, and awakening. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not allied or representative of any organizations or religions, but is based on the opinions and experience of Rev. Rachel Harrison or guests. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein. Take what you need and leave the rest.Support the showRev Rachel & Recover Your Soul www.recoveryoursoul.net FREE Support Group on Zoom 6-7PM MT on the 1st Monday of the Month Work the Process with Rev Rachel TRYASESSION for 40% off 1st session Working the Steps Program WORKSTEPS%50 Instagram, Insight Timer, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook private Facebook group RYS Bonus Podcast Patreon Member or subscribing on Apple Podcasts. Transcripts
I have been on a spiritual journey most of my life, and sometimes it has been a rocky road. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
This message explores three simple spiritual resolutions that are not new or complicated, but deeply foundational to the Christian life. Rather than focusing on doing more, it calls believers to think rightly, love intentionally, and walk closely with God.
This week I've been talking about the danger of cheap religion. And I don't consider myself to be a "religious" person. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
I watched this young family struggling, and I've watched them grow in faith through their trials. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
Sometimes we think our journey of faith should have no problems. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
Let's look at Abraham as we talk about faith. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
The danger of cheap religion. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
I. What did every Christian used to be before God saved them? We were dead, disobedient, dominated and doomed. vv1-3. II. What did God do for every believer? He made us alive, vv4-5. III. How did God make us alive? He made us alive together with Christ.
The Suffering of the Apostle Paul The apostle Paul's ministry was marked by unrelenting hardship, yet God used these very trials as a means of shaping his character and magnifying His glory. In recounting his experiences to the Corinthians, Paul detailed the many afflictions he endured: imprisonments, countless beatings, stoning, shipwrecks, exposure to danger, hunger, thirst, sleepless nights, and the daily pressure of concern for the churches (2 Cor 11:23–28). Such a catalog of suffering would have crushed many, but Paul recognized that his hardships were not wasted. Rather than viewing his trials as setbacks, he understood them as instruments of God's providence, divinely appointed means through which his faith was refined and his ministry authenticated. His endurance in these circumstances demonstrated that his message was not driven by human strength or ambition but by the power of God working through a frail but faithful servant. These sufferings kept him humble, dependent, and keenly aware that the surpassing greatness of the gospel treasure was carried in “earthen vessels” (2 Cor 4:7). Even more, Paul interpreted his sufferings as opportunities to display Christ's strength in his own weakness. When he pleaded for relief from his “thorn in the flesh,” the Lord answered, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9). Paul therefore embraced his afflictions, declaring, “Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me” (2 Cor 12:9–10). This paradoxical perspective enabled him to rejoice even in chains, as he assured the Philippians that his imprisonment had actually served to advance the gospel by emboldening others to preach Christ without fear (Phil 1:12–14). For Paul, trials were not obstacles but opportunities, occasions for God's grace to shine through human frailty and for the gospel to reach further than ease and comfort ever could. His life exemplifies the truth that spiritual maturity and that God's power is most clearly displayed when His servants, emptied of self, depend wholly on Him. The Suffering of the Saints Mentioned in Hebrews 11 The writer of Hebrews speaks of a “cloud of witnesses” who testify through their lives that faith can endure under the most severe trials (Heb 11:35–38). These men and women of old faced unimaginable hardships, including mocking, flogging, chains, imprisonment, and even violent death, yet they refused to abandon their trust in God. Some, like Jeremiah, were beaten and confined in stocks (Jer 20:2), while others, such as Daniel and his companions, were threatened with fiery furnaces and lions' dens but held firm to their convictions (Dan 3:16–18; 6:10). Tradition also recalls prophets who were sawn in two or killed with the sword, giving their lives rather than compromise their loyalty to Yahweh. What unites these witnesses is not the uniformity of their circumstances but the constancy of their faith. Though their earthly stories often ended in suffering rather than triumph, their lives bear permanent testimony to the sustaining power of God's promises. They form a great gallery of the faithful whose examples surround and encourage believers to run with endurance the race set before them (Heb 12:1). Though their faith was tested to its limits, these saints looked beyond their temporal struggles and fixed their gaze on God's eternal reward. They lived as pilgrims and strangers on the earth, confessing that they sought a better country, that is, a heavenly one, prepared by God Himself (Heb 11:13–16). Their perspective was not limited to deliverance in this life but extended to resurrection and future glory. Women, like the widow of Zarephath and the Shunammite woman, received back their dead by resurrection (1 Kgs 17:22–23; 2 Kgs 4:35–37), yet others accepted death rather than deny the hope of “a better resurrection” (Heb 11:35). This eschatological outlook sustained them through unimaginable suffering, for they knew that God's approval and eternal inheritance outweighed every earthly loss. Their faith was not naive optimism but a settled confidence in the character and promises of God, who “is a rewarder of those who seek Him” (Heb 11:6). In this way, their testimony continues to inspire believers today to endure hardship, remembering that the path of faith often winds through suffering, but it ultimately leads to the eternal presence and reward of God. When Believers Fail to Live by Faith There are examples in the Bible where mature believers struggled to maintain faith during intense trials. In Numbers, Moses became overwhelmed with his leadership and expressed despair, saying, “I alone am not able to carry all this people, because it is too burdensome for me. So if You are going to deal thus with me, please kill me at once” (Num 11:14-15a). Similarly, Elijah, after his triumph on Mount Carmel, fled from Jezebel and asked God to let him die because he felt overwhelmed and alone. Elijah said, “It is enough; now, O LORD, take my life, for I am not better than my fathers” (1 Ki 19:4). These instances highlight the very human responses of exhaustion, fear, and despair in some of God's greatest servants. They remind us that enduring trials is difficult and that even the most faithful can struggle to keep perspective in the face of overwhelming circumstances. However, these stories also show God's compassion and provision. God did not condemn Moses or Elijah for their despair; instead, He provided for their needs, reassured them, and continued to work through them. God's response to their struggles illustrates His understanding of human frailty and His willingness to sustain His people even when their faith falters. In a way, these moments of struggle also contribute to their spiritual growth, as God uses these low points to teach them, recalibrate their thinking to focus on His power and promises, and prepare them for the next steps in their journeys. Lastly, we cannot prevent the difficulties of life that come our way, but we can respond to them in faith, trusting God and His Word to guide and strengthen us. We know that “God causes all things to work together for good to those who love Him, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Rom 8:28). Whatever happens to us, we must fight the urge to complain, for if we start that, it becomes increasingly difficult to turn back. Complaining is not a problem solving device, and Scripture tells us to “Do all things without complaining or arguing” (Phil 2:14; cf., 1 Pet 4:9). As difficult as it may be, we must chose a faith response to “Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; and in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Th 5:16-18). When emotions rise, faith must rise even higher, for it is only through faith in God and His Word that growth occurs. Accept God's Trials. Paul wrote, “we exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope” (Rom 5:3-4). James said, “Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing” (Jam 1:2-4 CSB). The Lord uses the fire of trials to burn away the dross of our weak character and to refine those golden qualities consistent with His character. The growing believer learns to praise God in and for the trials, knowing He uses them to strengthen our faith and develop us into spiritually mature Christians. Trials can make us bitter or better, depending on how we respond to them. In the right conditions, time and pressure can shape a Christian much as it shapes carbon into a diamond. Wiersbe states: "The greatest judgment God could bring to a believer would be to let him alone, let him have his own way. Because God loves us, He “prunes” us and encourages us to bear more fruit for His glory. If the branches could speak, they would confess that the pruning process hurts; but they would also rejoice that they will be able to produce more and better fruit."[1] The Lord wants His child to have strength of character, steel in the soul, and not timidity. He leads the Christian into situations and hardships that resist comfort and develop spiritual muscle. He does not hesitate to place them in situations that lie beyond their natural strength, for only in being stretched to face the humanly impossible does the believer learn to trust in the Lord, gain confidence, and discover that divine power is made perfect in weakness. God uses trials, suffering, and hardships as His chosen instruments to shape, strengthen, and prepare those He intends to use. Rather than shielding His servants from pain, He hammers, molds, and bends them—never breaking them but transforming them into vessels fit for His highest purposes. For the Christian, then, suffering is not meaningless. It is God's tool of refinement, His instrument for shaping souls into vessels of honor. The fires that seem to consume us are in fact controlled flames in the hand of a wise and loving Father. The Christian who learns to see trial as part of God's gracious purpose can echo Paul's triumphant words: “We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing… always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body” (2 Cor 4:8–10). From a biblical perspective, God uses trials as a means to shape us into the people He wants us to be because He loves us and desires what is best for us. He wants us to mature, and life's difficulties are part of the process. We must walk by faith and choose to “count it all joy” (Jam 1:2) because we know that the testing of our faith will lead to spiritual maturity if we yield to the Lord (Jam 1:3–4). This passage encourages believers to view trials as opportunities for growth. Where there is positive volition and a faith response, trials become a means to strengthen faith, leading to perseverance. As perseverance develops, it results in spiritual maturity. Steven R. Cook., D.Min., M.Div. [1] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 1, 356.
They asked Jesus a question and He did not answer it. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
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The book of Hebrews helps us understand God's plan of redemption for mankind. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
Jesus taught on authority. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
Who gave you the authority to teach these things? That's what they asked Jesus. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
They came to disrupt Jesus's teaching. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
The Suffering of Daniel Daniel's story begins in the shadow of national tragedy. As a young man, likely in his mid-to-late teens, he was taken captive when Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem and carried many of Judah's nobility to Babylon (Dan 1:1–4). Torn from his homeland, stripped of freedom, and thrust into the heart of a pagan empire, Daniel entered a culture saturated with idolatry, sorcery, and political scheming. Babylon sought not only to enslave his body but to reprogram his mind, to erase his identity as a servant of the Lord and remake him into a loyal functionary of the empire. The king ordered that his name be changed, his education redirected, and his diet replaced with food from the royal table (Dan 1:5–7). Yet from the very beginning, “Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself” (Dan 1:8). Daniel was resolved to stand firm in his faith. He understood that his real allegiance was not to Babylon's king but to the God of heaven. In a foreign land, he refused to lose his spiritual identity. Daniel's discipline, humility, and doctrinal integrity made him a standout in Babylon. He did not protest his captivity, rebel against authority, or seek escape through human means. Instead, he accepted his circumstances as part of God's sovereign plan and chose to function as an ambassador for the Lord in enemy territory. God rewarded his faithfulness by granting him “knowledge and intelligence in every branch of literature and wisdom,” and Daniel himself was given “understanding of all kinds of visions and dreams” (Dan 1:17). Through divine promotion, Daniel rose to positions of high influence under successive kings and empires, yet he never compromised his loyalty to God. Living in the center of a hostile, idolatrous culture, Daniel demonstrated that it is possible to maintain spiritual stability and grace orientation even when surrounded by corruption and pressure. Daniel understood that divine viewpoint, not environment, determines stability. Suffering intensified with the passing years. Daniel's three companions—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—faced the fiery furnace when they refused to bow before Nebuchadnezzar's golden image (Dan 3:12–18). They told Nebuchadnezzar, “Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us… but even if He does not, let it be known… that we are not going to serve your gods” (Dan 3:17–18). They were willing to die rather than dishonor God. Their deliverance from the furnace demonstrated divine power, but more importantly, it vindicated their faith and revealed God's glory before a watching pagan world. Thieme notes, “This historical event illustrates a tremendous principle in the doctrine of suffering. God has designed human suffering for the blessing of the believer. Blessing is only possible when there is a consistent daily intake of Bible doctrine, which leads to spiritual maturity and occupation with Christ.”[1] Likewise, Daniel himself faced the lions' den when he refused to alter his prayer life under Darius' decree (Dan 6:10). He understood that prayer was a lifeline to the God who sustained him. Daniel's long exile, spanning roughly seventy years, was marked by pressure, promotion, and persecution. He served under multiple kings, from Nebuchadnezzar to Cyrus, and in each administration he maintained the same spiritual consistency. Though elevated to positions of immense political power, he remained humble before God, recognizing that all authority is delegated by the Sovereign of heaven (Dan 2:21). His prophetic visions and intercessory prayers reveal a man whose heart was never seduced by Babylon's wealth or wisdom but fixed on God's promises to Israel. Through testing, isolation, and exposure to pagan corruption, Daniel became the living embodiment of grace under pressure, a believer functioning in the devil's world without being conformed to it (Rom 12:1-2; 1 John 2:15-16). Daniel's captivity demonstrates the divine principle that adversity is God's classroom for spiritual advance. Like Joseph in Egypt and David in the wilderness, Daniel learned that promotion comes not from human favor but from the Lord (Psa 75:6–7). His entire life illustrates that faith is most often tested in crisis, and that true stability is the result of divine viewpoint thinking applied under pressure. Through exile and affliction, God transformed a Hebrew captive into a statesman-prophet, refining his faith through suffering and using his life as a witness to Gentile rulers. Daniel's story proves that spiritual victory does not require favorable circumstances, only a heart anchored in divine truth. In every generation, his life stands as a model of how to live faithfully in a pagan world without losing one's spiritual integrity: “The people who know their God will display strength and take action” (Dan 11:32). Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div. [1] R. B. Thieme, Jr., Daniel: Chapters One Through Six (Houston: R. B. Thieme, Jr. Bible Ministries, 2003), 83.
Daryl Beachy - Sunday morning opening devotional
Let us lay aside the weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
Our mission is to assist parents in the intellectual, moral, physical, and spiritual formation of their sons… At The Heights, we repeat these words often, including a paraphrase at the beginning of every HeightsCast episode. But what constitutes intellectual formation? What does educating the intellect look like? Co-founder of the Hillbilly Thomists and Rector Magnificus at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas in Rome, Fr. Thomas Joseph White, joins us for a deep-dive into the rich Catholic understanding of intellectus, habitus, ratio, and what it means to "form" these God-given faculties. Chapters: 1:35 Intellectus: to read into reality 7:41 Modern challenges to intellectus 13:35 Habitus: a stable disposition towards excellence 17:59 Modern challenges to habitus 21:22 Ratio vs. intellectus 27:07 Intuitive "sight" as a function of intellect 32:27 Developing clear "sight" in the young 34:35 Forming the heart alongside intellect 38:47 Whether the heart and intellect fully integrate 44:01 Beauty reveals the life of the mind to itself Links: The Hillbilly Thomists, co-founded by Fr. Thomas Joseph White Contemplation and the Cross: A Catholic Introduction to the Spiritual Life by Fr. Thomas Joseph White Wisdom in the Face of Modernity by Fr. Thomas Joseph White Full catalog of books by Fr. Thomas Joseph White The Regensburg Address by Pope Benedict XVI Beauty for Truth's Sake: On the Re-enchantment of Education by Stratford Caldecott Only the Lover Sings: Art and Contemplation by Josef Pieper Also on the Forum: Why Beauty Matters: The Postmodern Pressure on Our Interior Life featuring Dr. Jason Baxter Teaching Sovereign Knowers, essay series by Michael Moynihan "Fact or Opinion?": Roots of Relativism in an Ethical Dilemma by Michael Moynihan Featured Opportunities: The Art of Teaching Boys Conference at The Heights School (May 6-8, 2026)
Closing our journey through the Living Steps we explored the principles of all the 12 steps and how they are expressions of the fundamental foundations of Pnimius HaTorah and Chassidus.Closing out step 12 and this year long series, Menachem explores how the 12 steps inform living a spiritual life in all facets, a concept that is quite obviously reflected in the inner teachings of Torah. Website: TheLightRevealed.orgEmail: TheLightRevealed@TLRFamily.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelightrevealed/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelightrevealed/
Sometimes our problem isn't the external, obvious thing. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
Hebrews 12:1 talks about "the weight." ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
I have taken apart machines thinking I can fix the problem, only to realize that the problem is much deeper. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
There have been times in my life when there was a struggle going on deep in my soul. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
Dr. Jordan Stone preached on Romans 12:1–2.
I. God's power in Jesus over death is God's power for Christians, v20. II. God's power in Jesus over the demonic is God's power for Christians, vv20-21. III. God's power in giving Jesus dominion is God's power for Christians, vv22-23.
Recover Your Soul: A Spiritual Path to a Happy and Healthy Life
Send one way text to Rev Rachel The holidays have a way of bringing everything to the surface - the joy, the love, the tenderness, and also the old stories, the anxieties, and the patterns we thought we were done with. Being around family gives us a front-row seat to our operating system, the parts of us that still tighten, protect, or try to keep the peace.In this episode of Recover Your Soul, I talk about the real spiritual work of being with family while staying connected to yourself. We explore how to actually feel your feelings rather than suppress them, how to listen to the information they carry, and how to recognize when you've slipped into old roles of managing, pleasing, or fixing.This is the heart of the Recover Your Soul Process - learning to turn inward with curiosity and compassion, letting the emotions arise without judgment, and allowing others to be exactly who they are.My hope is that these reflections help you stay rooted in yourself through the holiday season - not armored, not shut down, but present, awake, and open to the deeper healing that is always happening beneath the surface.You are allowed to feel what you feel. You are allowed to honor your needs. And you areJoin us December 1st from 6-7PM Mountain Time for the next FREE Recover Your Soul Community Support Group. Register on the website, or look in your promotions folder the day of the meeting for the link if you have registered in the past. Start your journey with the FREE Recover Your Soul™ 9-Step Mini-Workbook- A gentle spiritual path to healing, letting go, and awakening. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not allied or representative of any organizations or religions, but is based on the opinions and experience of Rev. Rachel Harrison or guests. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein. Take what you need and leave the rest.Support the showRev Rachel & Recover Your Soul www.recoveryoursoul.net FREE Support Group on Zoom 6-7PM MT on the 1st Monday of the Month Work the Process with Rev Rachel TRYASESSION for 40% off 1st session Working the Steps Program WORKSTEPS%50 Instagram, Insight Timer, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook private Facebook group RYS Bonus Podcast Patreon Member or subscribing on Apple Podcasts. Transcripts
Stories of ghosts and hauntings have frightened us since the beginning of time. Until recently, few have dared to contact the deceased and discover the true nature of earthbound spirits and the phenomena they create. Our understanding of the afterlife has evolved, and with it the reality that ghosts are just like us, facing many of the same problems we face every day. Spirit rescue mediums are "psychologists for the deceased," helping them peacefully transition to the other side.Toward the Light is the first guide dedicated solely to spirit rescue and its role in saving earthbound spirits from their self-imposed exile on earth. It is a guide to rescue mediumship, a form of spirit communication used to counsel and aid the deceased in crossing over. It is the first book that will help you understand things from a ghost's perspective, and will cover such diverse topics as: Why spirits remain earthbound and the emotions associated with this decision Places of interest for earthbound spirits and the reasoning behind their residency Techniques and tools used by rescue mediums Psychic protection tools and techniques for all levels of spirit activity The different vibrational levels of spirit attachments Residual energy and the techniques used to clear it away.BioAmy Major is a psychic, empath, psychic medium, and rescue medium who has helped many people with her abilities. At a young age, she learned she had the ability to communicate with her spiritual and animal guides. Throughout her childhood, she developed astral projection as well as the ability to see auras and energy surrounding people. In her early 20s, Amy was told by her guides that she was able to communicate with spirits. While exploring her ability of mediumship, she quickly learned that she had very strong rescue mediumship skills.Amy now dedicates her time to rescue work and educating people about spirit rescue. Amy has been a successful spirit rescue medium since 2002. She was a lead medium in the Psychic Ghostbusters Team through the New Millennium Psychic Center in Derry, New Hampshire. She works alongside other mediums and spirit rescue specialists to aid spirits in their transition to the “other side.” Amy has studied and worked at the New Millennium Psychic Center in Derry, New Hampshire for many years and 188 Toward the Light is an active member of the Church of Spiritual Life in Methuen, Massachusetts. She is currently enrolled in Morris Pratt courses, specializing in mediumship and healing.https://www.amymajor.com/https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07J1L4XPV? https://www.pastliveshypnosis.co.uk/https://www.patreon.com/ourparanormalafterlifeMy book 'Verified Near Death Experiences' https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DXKRGDFP Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Stories of ghosts and hauntings have frightened us since the beginning of time. Until recently, few have dared to contact the deceased and discover the true nature of earthbound spirits and the phenomena they create. Our understanding of the afterlife has evolved, and with it the reality that ghosts are just like us, facing many of the same problems we face every day. Spirit rescue mediums are "psychologists for the deceased," helping them peacefully transition to the other side.Toward the Light is the first guide dedicated solely to spirit rescue and its role in saving earthbound spirits from their self-imposed exile on earth. It is a guide to rescue mediumship, a form of spirit communication used to counsel and aid the deceased in crossing over. It is the first book that will help you understand things from a ghost's perspective, and will cover such diverse topics as: Why spirits remain earthbound and the emotions associated with this decision Places of interest for earthbound spirits and the reasoning behind their residency Techniques and tools used by rescue mediums Psychic protection tools and techniques for all levels of spirit activity The different vibrational levels of spirit attachments Residual energy and the techniques used to clear it away.BioAmy Major is a psychic, empath, psychic medium, and rescue medium who has helped many people with her abilities. At a young age, she learned she had the ability to communicate with her spiritual and animal guides. Throughout her childhood, she developed astral projection as well as the ability to see auras and energy surrounding people. In her early 20s, Amy was told by her guides that she was able to communicate with spirits. While exploring her ability of mediumship, she quickly learned that she had very strong rescue mediumship skills.Amy now dedicates her time to rescue work and educating people about spirit rescue. Amy has been a successful spirit rescue medium since 2002. She was a lead medium in the Psychic Ghostbusters Team through the New Millennium Psychic Center in Derry, New Hampshire. She works alongside other mediums and spirit rescue specialists to aid spirits in their transition to the “other side.” Amy has studied and worked at the New Millennium Psychic Center in Derry, New Hampshire for many years and 188 Toward the Light is an active member of the Church of Spiritual Life in Methuen, Massachusetts. She is currently enrolled in Morris Pratt courses, specializing in mediumship and healing.https://www.amymajor.com/https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07J1L4XPV? https://www.pastliveshypnosis.co.uk/https://www.patreon.com/ourparanormalafterlifeMy book 'Verified Near Death Experiences' https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DXKRGDFP Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.