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Topics: Oprah's Favorite Things, Social Media, Looking Good/Feeling Bad, Paul/1st Corinthians, Transparent, Early Christmas, Spiritual Maturity, Starbucks, 7 Deadly Sins, Grace BONUS MATERIAL: Looking Good/Feeling Bad Follow-up, Worship vs. Disciple, Monster Mash Follow-up Quotes: "It's time for Jesus to come back." "God is awesome." "We can grow into spiritual maturity. We can become a different person with God's help." "Get out there and fight." "In this culture, there's not much grace outside of what you're gonna get from Jesus." Extending that grace makes you different." . . . Holy Ghost Mama Pre-Order! Want more of the Oddcast? Check out our website! Watch our YouTube videos here. Connect with us on Facebook!
Strengthened by Discipline: Hebrews 12:3–17In this episode of Divine Table Talk, Jamie and Jane unpack Hebrews 12:3–17, diving into the powerful theme of God's loving discipline and its role in shaping our faith. They explore how hardship is not punishment but preparation—evidence that we are His children being trained for holiness. Through honest conversation and biblical insight, they discuss how to endure trials, pursue peace, and live with hearts anchored in grace. This episode is a reminder that God's correction always comes from love and leads to growth.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams
Today we're trashing feminism some more, because it obviously deserves it. Feminism is not only unbiblical, it's extremely destructive for all of society. We'll talk about why Christian podcasters like Allie Beth Stuckey shouldn't defend their feminism while claiming to follow Christ, and why Christianity itself is a patriarchy, by God's design. It's time for biblical men to stop waiting for permission from feminists and take back the authority God gave them. We'll also discuss more of the Trump administration's mistakes, including this ridiculous new 50-year mortgage idea that proves how far from wisdom our leaders have fallen.
Summary In this episode, Dr. Michael Easley welcomes best-selling author and leadership coach Patrick Lencioni for a candid conversation about the intersection of faith, humility, and leadership. Patrick shares how spiritual maturity and self-awareness shape the way leaders serve others, especially in ministry and organizational life. He and Michael discuss how pride and insecurity often hide behind titles or success—and how true leadership begins with embracing our dependence on Christ. Patrick reflects on his personal journey of learning to lead through weakness, not image, and explains why the healthiest teams are built on honesty and vulnerability, not performance. Together, they unpack the dangers of ego-driven ministry and the freedom that comes when leaders prioritize humility, obedience, and joy in the Lord over outcomes. This conversation challenges every listener—pastor, leader, or parent—to evaluate what drives their influence. Through laughter, honesty, and deep biblical truth, Patrick and Michael remind us that leadership in the kingdom of God is not about control or recognition—it's about service and surrender. Takeaways True leadership begins with humility, not authority. Pride and insecurity often disguise themselves as confidence. The healthiest teams are marked by honesty and vulnerability. Spiritual maturity means serving from dependence on Christ, not self. Leaders must resist the temptation to measure worth by results. God calls us to lead through obedience and joy, not image or control. LINKS MENTIONED: The Table Group Pat's books Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.
In this episode, Samuel Goulet explores the foundational role of solitude and silence in prayer, emphasizing that true intimacy with God begins when we separate ourselves from distractions and embrace stillness. Drawing on biblical examples and teachings, Samuel discusses the challenges of being alone with God, such as anxiety and restlessness, and encourages listeners to build a regular practice of quiet time with God. He offers practical advice for scheduling solitude, highlighting how spiritual growth unfolds as we consistently seek God in the secret place, ultimately calling listeners to cultivate spiritual maturity by knowing God personally and pressing on even when it feels awkward or difficult. [ivoox.com]
In this episode, Samuel Goulet emphasizes the importance of anchoring prayer in biblical understanding and practice, using the imagery of the upper room to illustrate the significance of waiting upon the Lord and praying according to God's will rather than personal desires. He highlights how the transformative power of waiting and prayer refines and prepares individuals for the fulfillment of God's promises, drawing parallels between the disciples' experience and the process of spiritual growth. Samuel encourages listeners to pursue a prayer life that seeks God's will, fostering personal transformation and a deeper connection with the divine. [ivoox.com]
Have you ever found yourself searching for more in your faith? Maybe you have decided to become a Christian, but your faith is a bit dull and you don't feel like you are growing. Maybe you feel like your church is just designed for new Christians, but it is not helping you develop your own faith. In week 1 of our series, In the Making, we want to address those concerns. What does it mean to be fully mature as a Christian? And how do you know if you are growing?
Title: Level-HeadednessScripture Reading: Ephesians 4:21-24 Series: The “L” Fruits of JesusNotice: This message interviews one of Grace 242's covenant partners about the sketch he made of Jesus. View those images here. Like the character Riley in the movie Inside Out , every human has emotions, feelings, and attitudes; they are part of the human experience. But how do we ensure these emotions are healthy? This sermon, part of "The L Fruits of Jesus" series, explores the fruit of level-headedness.This message examines Level-Headedness through three "L"s:The Lordship of Level-Headedness: This explores what it means to place our attitudes, feelings, and emotions under the lordship of Jesus Christ. It examines the two "ditches" churches often fall into: replacing scripture's authority with feelings or removing emotions from discipleship entirely, which can lead to being spiritually mature while remaining emotionally immature.The Likeness of Level-Headedness: Looking at Ephesians 4:24, this "L" discusses what it means to be "created to be like God." While God has emotions, He is impassible (His state doesn't change). Jesus, however, fully shared the human emotional experience to redeem and restore the image of God in us. In this section, Pastor Bill contrasts depictions of emotionless Jesus with a sketch that Bob from Grace 242 did. Those images may be viewed here.The Labor of Level-Headedness: This section provides practical application based on Ephesians 4:22-24. We are to "throw off" the old nature, "put on" the new, and let the Spirit "renew our thoughts and attitudes." The key question is whether we are submitting our emotions to the Master or letting our emotions master us. The goal is not to be emotionless , but to direct our emotions for God's glory.
Today marks a special milestone—156 Fridays!
Paul's prayer in Colossians 1 isn't about comfort… it's about growth. In this episode, Quortney unpacks what it means to be “filled with the knowledge of His will” and to walk worthy of the Lord in everyday life. Learn how real spiritual maturity looks when Jesus is truly enough.Support the showConnect with the ladies of Her Portion, HERE!
In this transformative interview, spiritual teacher Lee Harris channels the Z's to share a 2026 energy update about humanity's accelerating evolution. Together with Emilio Ortiz, Lee explores how cosmic consciousness, technology, and the human heart are converging to reshape our future. The Z's reveal why 2025–2026 marks a historic turning point for Earth, what it means to embody the “Future Human,” and how the breakdowns we're witnessing are preparing us for an entirely new era of connection and creativity.This episode of Just Tap In Podcast is both prophetic and practical — a grounded guide for navigating the massive energetic shifts already underway. Whether you're a healer, creator, or simply awakening to your role in the collective transformation, this transmission offers clarity, hope, and activation for the times ahead. Tune in, feel the frequency, and discover what the cosmic future of humanity truly holds.Lee Harris is a globally acclaimed Energy Intuitive, Channeler and Musician who offers grounded, practical teachings focused on helping conscious, intuitive, and sensitive people heal, thrive, and live a better life.___________________PODCAST CHAPTERS0:00 - Lee Harris Intro1:22 – The Acceleration of Collective Awakening7:55 – Letting Go of the Old Consciousness9:58 – Spiritual Maturity in Global Change15:49 – 2026–2027: Creative Downloads for Healers and Visionaries18:19 – Understanding Divine Timing 20:16 – Collaboration with Spirit22:23 – When the World Isn't Ready Yet24:45 – Avoiding Creative Self-Sabotage26:44 – Channeling the Z's30:54 – Setting the Stage for the Next 7–10 Years of Humanity31:53 – Humanity's Next Frontier – Cosmic Consciousness39:29 – The Holodeck of Reality41:05 – How Awakening Changes Your Role in the World43:28 – Becoming Ambassadors of Higher Consciousness46:20 – Interdimensional Alliances & The Shift of Earth's Timeline48:41 – Remembering You Were Never Fully Human51:01 – Return of Multidimensional Contact & Telepathy51:52 – The Union of Science, Technology & Spirituality54:46 – The Corruption of Global Systems 57:07 – The Future Human1:02:24 – The Original Design of the Human1:02:56 – Becoming Custodians of Planetary Regeneration1:05:42 – Reclaiming Power & Healing the Heart1:07:53 – Closing Blessing: The Z's Message of Renewal & Transformation1:13:02 – Lee's Recurring Dream & Early Contact with Other Dimensions1:17:34 – Lee's Upcoming Mystery School: Initiations 20251:20:14 – Final Words: Deep Gratitude & Love for Humanity___________________Guests: Lee Harris Energy & the Z's ✦ Website | https://www.leeharrisenergy.com/✦ Instagram | / leeharrisenergy ✦ YouTube | @LeeHarrisEnergy ✦ Lee Harris Courses | https://www.leeharrisenergy.com/courses Host: Emilio Ortiz✦ IG | / iamemilioortiz ✦ Subscribe to Channel | / emilioortiz ✦ Join The Deep Dive Membership | https://iamemilioortiz.com/the-deep-d...Share Your Gratitude & Support the Show:✦ Make a One-Time or Recurring Donation on PayPal
Join us for a special message from our Care Pastor, Brian Case.—Stay ConnectedWebsite: http://www.momentumchurch.orgMomentum Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumONLMomentum Church Instagram: http://instagram.com/momentum_churchMomentum Church Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/momentum_churchTim Payne Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pastortimpayneTim Payne Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/timjpayneTim Payne Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/timpayne_Support the Ministry: http://www.momentumchurch.org/giveSupport the show
Spiritual maturity doesn't happen by accident — it's a process of growing up in Christ, learning to say no to the impulses of the flesh, and letting your renewed spirit lead your thoughts, choices, and behavior. In this message, Pastor John Carter walks us through the stages of development (childhood, adolescence, and adulthood) and shows how real grace doesn't just forgive us, it trains us to live with discipline, character, and wholeness.
Welcome to the month of maturity!!! Join in as Senior pastor Daniel Kaira teaches more about taming ones tongue and deciding to not let some things out of your mouth.
11 insights to manage your anger in a mature way that brings healing. Sarah & Debbie
Send us a textMost people think they're alive because they're busy. But busyness is not the same as growth—and if you're not growing in Christ, you're already spiritually dead.In this power-packed episode, Chelsey exposes the hard truth from Ephesians 4: growth isn't optional—it's the evidence of new life in Christ. She unpacks how our old patterns, perfectionism, vanity metrics, and desire to perform are actually signs of spiritual deadness masked in hustle. Through stories of gardening, parenting, and surrender, she shares how only the Holy Spirit can produce lasting transformation.Inside this episode:Why your striving may be a symptom of spiritual deathHow growth in the Kingdom always begins with surrenderThe gardening metaphor that reframes your walk with GodWhat keeps high-achieving women stuck in cycles of burnoutWhy High Level Wife is not a Chelsey show—it's God's movementThis is your invitation to die to self, so you can truly come alive. Support the showChelsey Holm | the Wife Coach "I help Christian wives surrender fully, live Spirit-led, and be set apart according to God's design in marriage, motherhood, and life."Grab my free training here: https://chelsey.coach/highlevelwife-blueprint 2x certified Coach (John Maxwell Leadership, Kristen Boss SSLS)10+ years coaching experienceNASM-certified in Personal Training and NutritionMom of 5, Army wife 16 yearsSupport the show!The Chelsey Holm Podcast (The Chelsey Holm Podcast) It's hard to give your best when you don't feel your best- replenish your health with Ready Set Wellness: https://us.shaklee.com/site/chelseynoel/Nutrition/Ready-Set-Wellness/Ready-Set-Wellness-Bundle/p/89599
Send us a textThank you for listening to City Lights Dubai. If you have any questions or if you would like to get in touch, please visit our website citylightsdubai.org
One of the greatest KPIs of spiritual maturity is use of words. In this episode we explore the power of the tongue and the power we have over it to stir our lives in the right direction.
In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef challenges us to consider the object of our confidence.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon series It's Contagious . . . Pass It On: LISTEN NOWFOR YOUR GIFT OF ANY AMOUNTFor those who feel battle-worn—disheartened by society's moral decline, burdened for their children and grandchildren, weary from fighting the same battles—Dr. Michael A. Youssef's NEW book Winning the Invisible Waroffers timely hope. Speaking directly to those wondering if evil is winning, Dr. Youssef assures us although the war isn't over, victory is already secured in Christ. With Biblical clarity and pastoral compassion, he reminds readers that we can stand strong—not in our own strength, but in the strength of the Lord. Pre-order your copy today for your gift of any amount!*Offer valid in US, UK, and Canada through November 10, 2025
If your spiritual health crumbled when the last storm hit, Pastor D'wayne Louard reveals the 3 clear signs you're running on empty and the one divine technology that changes everything.SHOW NOTESEPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Prayer is Responsibility: Stop treating prayer as a religious routine; embrace it as the conversational responsibility God gave you to enforce His will on earth. The Technology of Prayer: Use prayer as a "technology" to manifest that which is "settled in heaven" into your immediate earthly circumstances. Plug In Before the Storm: Spiritual maturity is built by making the decision to follow Jesus and build your foundation before the inevitable afflictions and storms arrive. Intimacy is the Static Filter: Tune out the world's noise by consistently drawing closer to God through His Word and prayer, making His voice unmistakable The Covering is Intentionality: Spiritual covering for your family is directly tied to the intentionality and consistency of your daily prayer life. "The measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." — Martin Luther King Jr.
This is The Energy to Heal, your resource for all things Splankna—the faith-based inner healing modality that helps you achieve emotional freedom. In this conversation, Laura Milliken and Sarah Thiessen discuss the overwhelming challenges many face in today's world, particularly the impact of social media and news on mental health. They explore the unprecedented nature of our awareness of global events and how it affects our emotional well-being. The discussion includes strategies for coping with heavy seasons, the importance of community support, and the role of imagination in prayer. Ultimately, they emphasize the power of choice in how we respond to life's challenges and the necessity of maintaining mental health and resilience.
You will learn how to win battles and the importance of spiritual maturity to see victory.
In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef reveals three ways from 1 John that believers can deal with their wayward hearts.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Life at Its Best, Part 3: LISTEN NOWFOR YOUR GIFT OF ANY AMOUNTFor those who feel battle-worn—disheartened by society's moral decline, burdened for their children and grandchildren, weary from fighting the same battles—Dr. Michael A. Youssef's NEW book Winning the Invisible Waroffers timely hope. Speaking directly to those wondering if evil is winning, Dr. Youssef assures us although the war isn't over, victory is already secured in Christ. With Biblical clarity and pastoral compassion, he reminds readers that we can stand strong—not in our own strength, but in the strength of the Lord. Pre-order your copy today for your gift of any amount!*Offer valid in US, UK, and Canada through November 10, 2025.
Send us a textFor those who become the spiritual children of God, what happens next? They grow towards maturity. This sermon examines what spiritual maturity entails and the means necessary to achieve it. anushjohn.com
In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef digs into John's call to the family of God to abide in Truth.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Life at Its Best, Part 2: LISTEN NOWFOR YOUR GIFT OF ANY AMOUNTFor those who feel battle-worn—disheartened by society's moral decline, burdened for their children and grandchildren, weary from fighting the same battles—Dr. Michael A. Youssef's NEW book Winning the Invisible Waroffers timely hope. Speaking directly to those wondering if evil is winning, Dr. Youssef assures us although the war isn't over, victory is already secured in Christ. With Biblical clarity and pastoral compassion, he reminds readers that we can stand strong—not in our own strength, but in the strength of the Lord. Pre-order your copy today for your gift of any amount!*Offer valid in US, UK, and Canada through November 10, 2025.
Today’s Bible Verse:"But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil." — Hebrews 5:14 Hebrews 5:14 paints a picture of spiritual maturity as something built through practice and discernment. Just as athletes train their bodies, believers are called to train their hearts and minds by applying God’s Word daily. Maturity isn’t instant—it’s the result of steady, faithful practice. “Want to listen without ads? Become a BibleStudyTools.com PLUS Member today: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/ Meet Today’s Host: Reverend Jessica Van Roekel
In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef identifies signposts that John gives us to determine if we're really following our Savior.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Life at Its Best, Part 2: LISTEN NOWFOR YOUR GIFT OF ANY AMOUNTFor those who feel battle-worn—disheartened by society's moral decline, burdened for their children and grandchildren, weary from fighting the same battles—Dr. Michael A. Youssef's NEW book Winning the Invisible Waroffers timely hope. Speaking directly to those wondering if evil is winning, Dr. Youssef assures us although the war isn't over, victory is already secured in Christ. With Biblical clarity and pastoral compassion, he reminds readers that we can stand strong—not in our own strength, but in the strength of the Lord. Pre-order your copy today for your gift of any amount!*Offer valid in US, UK, and Canada through November 10, 2025
St. Therese is always full of surprises for the faithful. When it comes to happiness, for example, she expressed happiness at seeing herself as imperfect and in need of God's mercy at the time of death. By the world's standards, this is a twisted sentiment, but for those seeking eternity in heaven with Our Lord, it is precisely the right feeling to hold.
In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef clarifies what true confession is.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Life at Its Best, Part 1: LISTEN NOWFOR YOUR GIFT OF ANY AMOUNTFor those who feel battle-worn—disheartened by society's moral decline, burdened for their children and grandchildren, weary from fighting the same battles—Dr. Michael A. Youssef's NEW book Winning the Invisible Waroffers timely hope. Speaking directly to those wondering if evil is winning, Dr. Youssef assures us although the war isn't over, victory is already secured in Christ. With Biblical clarity and pastoral compassion, he reminds readers that we can stand strong—not in our own strength, but in the strength of the Lord. Pre-order your copy today for your gift of any amount!*Offer valid in US, UK, and Canada through November 10, 2025.
Some people remain in a state of spiritual infancy and do not come to the maturity required to take the whole counsel of God. Instead, they persecute those who are born in the Spirit, as Ishmael persecuted Isaac. If you walk in the Spirit and are led by Him, you will encounter Ishmaels until the day you die. Recognize that the power of the One who has given you His Spirit is greater than the power of the spirit of Ishmael and those who come against. The Spirit of God is able to overcome. VF-2118 Galatians 4:29 Watch, Listen and Learn 24x7 at PastorMelissaScott.com Pastor Melissa Scott teaches from Faith Center in Glendale. Call 1-800-338-3030 24x7 to leave a message for Pastor Scott. You may make reservations to attend a live service, leave a prayer request or make a commitment. Pastor Scott appreciates messages and reads them often during live broadcasts. Follow @Pastor_Scott on Twitter and visit her official Facebook page @Pastor.M.Scott. Download Pastor Scott's "Understand the Bible" app for iPhone, iPad and iPod at the Apple App Store and for Android devices in the Google Store. Pastor Scott can also be seen 24x7 on Roku and Amazon Fire on the "Understand the Bible?" channel. ©2025 Pastor Melissa Scott, Ph.D., All Rights Reserved
You will learn how to come into spiritual maturity and let go of childish ways.
This week, we'll be studying Genesis 13:1-18 under the theme “The Pursuit of Goods, Good, and God.” Lot chased what looked like paradise, but ended up near ruin. Abram chose God over goods and found blessing beyond measure.Series Summary: Our fall worship series will lead us through the Book of Genesis, arguably the most profound, insightful text in human history. Over this series, we'll uncover how the narratives of Genesis reveal God's design for creation, humanity, relationships, and purpose. We'll explore truths that continue to shape our lives today, from the Garden of Eden to the promise of redemption.Add St. Marcus as your church on the Church Center App!Fill out our online connection cardHow can we pray for you? If you'd like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here.
Samuel teaches about the importance of prayer, especially intercession, explaining that it starts with personal connection to God and extends to praying for others. He uses biblical examples to show that everyone is called to intercede, encouraging listeners to persist in prayer for others until spiritual growth and unity with Jesus are achieved.
Our first lady speaks to us with great knowledge and understanding today. First Lady says hold yourself accountable for your actions. Ephesians 4:11-16 (NLT)
"We often gain spiritual maturity through the hard times, the rough seasons of our lives.” Shantel Dudley is a mother to 18 children: four biological kids, three stepchildren, and 11 children with special medical needs from foster care. Shantel is no stranger to tough times. She has “rocked six children into heaven.” At her lowest point, Shantel lay in bed, afraid of what might happen next. She started watching videos of inspiring Christian women who faced the hardest losses, remained honest and faithful, and continued to be used by God. Shantel is one of these inspiring women herself! Listen to this mini retreat podcast and let your heart be set on fire with love of Christ. Explore God's call in your life, understand how He's always present and loving—even when you feel like you're not measuring up—and learn how to root your identity and life in Him. Be blessed with greater clarity about “who you are and whose you are.”
In this sermon, Mike Whitesell reflects on how Christians, especially those in their later years, can continue to grow and make a meaningful impact for God's kingdom. Prompted by his own experience with retirement, Whitesell stresses the importance of not becoming complacent or “a grumpy old guy,” but remaining intentional and vibrant in faith. He encourages listeners to examine not just their spiritual practices but also their attitudes, dispositions, and ways of relating to others. Using both a personal story about impatience at a cell phone store and biblical examples, he highlights how our daily interactions should be marked by “sweet reasonableness” and grace as described in Philippians 4. Whitesell employs a sailing metaphor, likening the Christian life to trimming sails so we can be optimally driven by the Holy Spirit, rather than old habits or self-focus. Drawing from Galatians 2:20, he outlines four steps for spiritual refinement: dying to self, denying self-centeredness, relying on Christ, and then actively trying to live out Christlike character. Ultimately, Whitesell urges believers to let the Holy Spirit guide their responses and relationships so that their witness remains vibrant, gracious, and effective for Christ. The sermon ends with a prayer for God's ongoing work in shaping His people to reflect Jesus in all circumstances.
Life choices bring joy or loss depending on motivation and the Guide.
Navigating new seasons in our spiritual journey requires strength and courage, just as Joshua needed when leading Israel into the Promised Land. Growth often brings discomfort, but it's necessary for spiritual maturity. To successfully navigate these transitions, we must keep God's Word in our mouths, speaking life rather than complaints, and follow His presence even into unfamiliar territory. God sometimes ends one provision (like the manna) to move us toward something better. These challenging transitions are actually opportunities for deeper maturity and fruitfulness in our faith journey.Keep the Bible in your mouth - what we speak matters, especially during times of change and growth.Follow God's presence - just as the Israelites followed the Ark of the Covenant, we need to be led by the Spirit rather than our own preferences.When spiritual practices feel dry or stale, it may be God's way of pushing you into a new season of growth.Growth and change are often uncomfortable but necessary for spiritual maturity.Our faith is meant to be lived in community, not in isolation.Support the show
Ministered by Pastor Jonathan Skiles at New Life Church of La Habra in La Habra, CA. God bless you and thank you for listening! If you would like to learn more about our ministry or give an offering, please visit our website at www.nlclahabra.com Visit us on Instagram: @nlclahabra Our Address: New Life Church of La Habra 740 E. Lambert Rd. Unit E La Habra, CA 90631
Words to Live ByNever short sell an immeasurably more God.Never underestimate the power of a simple prayer offered on behalf of a complex situation.Never dismiss the impact of obedience (or disobedience).This week our word is… Never be afraid of the repercussions of speaking the truth in love; one of those repercussion is freedom.The problem with avoiding conflict is that you actually live longer in the conflict than you need to and you miss what God can do in you and them as a result of a resolution. What I propose to you this morning is…God may have a purpose for your conflict. All of God's purposes are good.God will do something redeeming in your conflict if you trust Him enough to follow Him through it.Conflict can be a path to freedom for both parties if both parties cooperate. Replace “winning or avoiding” with freedom as your new frame for conflict. Never be afraid of the repercussions of speaking the truth in love; one of those repercussion is freedom (redemption). If you just want the conflict to be over you will leave a lot of restoration on the table. Conflict is a freedom opportunity.Changing your perception of conflict will change the way you process conflict.Ephesians 4:1-6, 11-16 (NIV + CAV) As a prisoner for the Lord [bound by His words, way and will], then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love [agape selfless all in love]. 3 Make every effort [implies consistent work] to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. [we are all under this one banner of the Lordship of Christ.] 11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. [End goal freedom = fullness. For me to be full of Christ I have to get rid of the stuff that isn't Christ] 14 Then [when we are free and full] we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.Spiritual Unity and Spiritual Maturity are two of God's primary objectives for the Body of Christ. This means they are Word directed and Spirit empowered BUT they are only accomplished with our cooperation. Disunity and Immaturity are opponents to freedom and wholeness in Christ. Satan's objective with conflict is separation and there is no shortage of opportunity for conflict. God's objective is freedom and this verse gives us the way towards conflict redemption… “speak the truth in love”. Truthing isn't the idea of “getting something off my chest” or “telling it like it is”. Truthing's purpose is freedom and its manner is agape love. Are you truthing in love in your conflict? Being a Christian and being a part of a church doesn't mean we have arrived, it means we are arriving – we are walking together. Freedom is the motivation. Truthing is the manner. Face to Face is the Method. Matthew 18:15 (NIV) 15 “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.The Biblical method to conflict redemption is to go in person. The quicker you GO the quicker the potential is for redemption and restoration. The longer you let it sit, it doesn't sit, it burrows. An early “face to face” short circuits at least 3 things that complicate conflict redemption. Contamination. Infection. Posse building. Winning a conflict is not ending up on top or having the most people on your side, winning is mutual freedom. Matthew 18:16 (NIV) 16 But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'Why the press from Jesus? Jesus understands broken human nature better than anyone. Jesus understands more than we do the value of relationships to our wholeness and maturity. Jesus is more invested in this “freedom outcome” than we are – He died for it.Matthew 18:17 (NIV) 17 If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector. It is possible to agree to disagree and still be able to work on the same mission with the same passion… but it's not possible within the Body of Christ to hold animosity towards or withhold forgiveness from someone. If love, humility and unity wasn't such a priority for the Body of Christ, Christ wouldn't confront conflict so boldly. Freedom is the motive. Truthing in love is the manner. Face to Face is the method.Matthew 5:9 (NIV) Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.Freedom is the motivation – not avoiding or winning.Truthing in love is the manner – not accusation.Face to Face is the method – not posse building.Your freedom doesn't rest in the outcome (the hands of someone else) your freedom rests in your obedience, faith, trust, movement in the word of God.
On the first Sunday of the next 3 months, we will share a series of talks Rev. Bill Haley offered Christ Church Austin during a retreat they hosted entitled “Spiritual Formation for Kingdom Action.” Taken together, these talks offer a powerful invitation into an integrated and transformed Christian life. I. Contemplatives in the Heart of the WorldII. The Kingdom of God & ShalomIn this third talk, Bill digs into the biblical vision of spiritual maturity and how that vision might become our reality.Explore the Full Archive of Bill's SermonsExplore Bill's Essential Christianity Book & Courseinthecoracle.org | @inthecoracleSupport the show
This is The Energy to Heal, your resource for all things Splankna, the faith-based inner healing modality that will help you achieve emotional freedom. In this episode, host Laura Milliken sits down with her husband, Mason Milliken, for a powerful conversation about surrendering to Christ as the true secret to peace, joy, and ease in life. Through candid storytelling and real-life examples, Laura and Mason explore the ways faith has shaped their marriage, family, and entrepreneurial journey. Mason shares how surrendering to God's direction has allowed him to build businesses—not out of striving, but out of trust. Together, they reveal how detaching from worldly control opens the door to freedom, fulfillment, and deep rest in God's plan. This episode will encourage anyone facing uncertainty, business pressures, or personal struggles to discover the life-changing truth: surrender is not loss—it's the path to abundant life in Christ. BOOK MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: GRACE WALK by STEVE MCVEY ✨ Takeaways: Surrender to Christ is the true secret to peace, joy, and freedom. Faith and business are not separate—they can flow together. Letting go of control leads to greater clarity and ease. God honors risk when it is rooted in trust and obedience. Detaching from worldly attachments opens the way to true fulfillment. Practical faith can guide everyday decisions in work and family. Living surrendered means trading striving for God's strength.
The goal of Christianity is Christlikeness. Spiritual growth is the fruit of our faith; evidence that we are connected to the vine. In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Pastor Jeff and Tiffany unpack what spiritual growth really is, why it matters, and how believers partner with the Holy Spirit to become more like Christ.They explain the nature of growth, the role of discipline and refinement, and the daily practices that help Christians mature in their faith.What We Discussed01:17 – Growth and Maturity in ScripturePractical Theology connects doctrine to daily life. Examples from Corinth and Hebrews show how believers can remain spiritually immature. The Christian life involves either progressing or regressing—there is no standing still.03:42 – Defining Spiritual GrowthSpiritual growth is a progressive development in key areas of life: spiritual character, knowledge of God, faith, and an appreciation of Christ's work.05:00 – The Nature of Spiritual GrowthGrowth is a partnership between the Holy Spirit and believers. The Spirit empowers us to live out God's truth, producing behavioral growth expressed in love, patience, and obedience.07:05 – Lifelong Learning and RefinementSpiritual growth is not linear. God refines believers through discipline and correction. 09:40 – The Goal of GrowthThe ultimate outcome is to become more like Christ. The fruits of the Spirit shape believers into His likeness.12:00 – Practicing Spiritual Growth DailySpiritual disciplines mirror physical habits. Believers need daily nourishment from God's Word, obedience to His commands, and rest in His promises. 14:33 – A Call to Ongoing GrowthSpiritual growth has infinite capacity. Christians should never be satisfied with their current condition but continually press forward in maturity.Key Quote“Although we'll never attain absolute spiritual maturity in this world, we can be relatively mature for our spiritual age as we give ourselves daily to the means God uses to grow us.” – Pastor Jeff CranstonWe love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.orgVisit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter. Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church. Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranstonRemember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!