Podcasts about Steadfast

Those wild and windy trials are a blessing! -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible.     Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org   Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Series: Be SteadfastService: Sun PM WorshipType: SermonSpeaker: Phillip ShumakeSummary Steadfast Taking a StandDate & Time:2025-07-20 Sunday PMInstructor:Phillip ShumakeDuration:approximately 34 minutes and 17 secondsTopics Covered:Steadfastness in Christ as described in 2 Thessalonians 3Qualities of a steadfast heart (decisiveness, loyalty, humility, strength)Various metaphors for steadfastness in the New TestamentFive key areas to take a stand in: faith, doctrine, morality, mission, and hopeThe importance of trusting Jesus completelyThe necessity of adhering to New Testament doctrineMoral purity and fleeing temptationCommitment to the mission of evangelismLiving with hope anchored in Christ’s resurrectionKey Points or Explanations:Steadfastness involves discipline, consistency, and long-term commitment.Being steadfast means standing with God regardless of challenges.Faith in Jesus is foundational,…

Luke 14:15-2415 When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, “Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.”16 Jesus replied: “A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. 17 At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.'18 “But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, ‘I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.'19 “Another said, ‘I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I'm on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.'20 “Still another said, ‘I just got married, so I can't come.'21 “The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.'22 “‘Sir,' the servant said, ‘what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.'23 “Then the master told his servant, ‘Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full. 24 I tell you, not one of those who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.'”

The church is commanded to remain steadfast in work so that we keep loving one another while we wait for Jesus to return.

The Lord causes us to become steadfast and complete when he brings us through trial—and he makes us wise as we come to him in faith. Trust him in times of trial—call out to him for the wisdom you will need to navigate those times of trial with a godly perspective.

This compelling debut novel explores the interconnected lives of three acclaimed female concert pianists: Clara Bishop; her teacher, Zofia Mikorska; and their nineteenth-century predecessor, Constantia Pleyel—best known for her arrest and subsequent incarceration for the murder of her own piano teacher, a composer named Aleksander Starza. Exactly how these three women are connected becomes clear only late in the book, but two of the elements that link them are Starza's best-known composition, known as the “Fire Concerto,” and the metronome used to kill him—once thought to have been destroyed after his death. Clara is the center of The Fire Concerto (Union Square Publishing, 2025). Once a brilliant performer, she suffered career-ending injuries during a performance of the Fire Concerto and, when we meet her, is tending bar in Austin, Texas. An unexpected summons to her teacher's “final concert” turns macabre when she discovers that it is actually a reading of Zofia Mikorska's will. Other beneficiaries receive instruments or documents; Clara inherits an antique metronome with the assurance that she will know what to do with it. She does not. In fact, she has no idea how valuable it is until a visit to an antiques dealer reveals the connection to Aleksander Starza. With some help from another former student, with whom she once alternated between competition and attraction, Clara is gradually drawn into a search for the truth of Starza's murder, Pleyel's part in it, and the connections between them and her brilliant but difficult teacher. In the process, Clara must also confront her own past and come to terms with the career she has lost. Sarah Landenwich—writer, writing educator, and classically trained pianist—is the author of The Fire Concerto, her debut novel.  C. P. Lesley is the author of two historical fiction series set during the childhood of Ivan the Terrible and four other novels. Her latest book, Song of the Steadfast, came out in June 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

This compelling debut novel explores the interconnected lives of three acclaimed female concert pianists: Clara Bishop; her teacher, Zofia Mikorska; and their nineteenth-century predecessor, Constantia Pleyel—best known for her arrest and subsequent incarceration for the murder of her own piano teacher, a composer named Aleksander Starza. Exactly how these three women are connected becomes clear only late in the book, but two of the elements that link them are Starza's best-known composition, known as the “Fire Concerto,” and the metronome used to kill him—once thought to have been destroyed after his death. Clara is the center of The Fire Concerto (Union Square Publishing, 2025). Once a brilliant performer, she suffered career-ending injuries during a performance of the Fire Concerto and, when we meet her, is tending bar in Austin, Texas. An unexpected summons to her teacher's “final concert” turns macabre when she discovers that it is actually a reading of Zofia Mikorska's will. Other beneficiaries receive instruments or documents; Clara inherits an antique metronome with the assurance that she will know what to do with it. She does not. In fact, she has no idea how valuable it is until a visit to an antiques dealer reveals the connection to Aleksander Starza. With some help from another former student, with whom she once alternated between competition and attraction, Clara is gradually drawn into a search for the truth of Starza's murder, Pleyel's part in it, and the connections between them and her brilliant but difficult teacher. In the process, Clara must also confront her own past and come to terms with the career she has lost. Sarah Landenwich—writer, writing educator, and classically trained pianist—is the author of The Fire Concerto, her debut novel.  C. P. Lesley is the author of two historical fiction series set during the childhood of Ivan the Terrible and four other novels. Her latest book, Song of the Steadfast, came out in June 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/historical-fiction

Characters, Character, and the Steadfast Mercy of God  Luke 10:25-37 The Fourth Sunday after Trinity Sunday, July 13, 2025 Colleen Curlee-Malament  Church of the Redeemer, Nashville, TN www.Redeemer-Nashville.net

Authentic Church is a Bible-based, Spirit-empowered, Presence-driven church in Orange County with the mission to Love God, Love People, and Live Authentic.   Our Vision is to Encounter God, Discover Community, and Fulfill God's call on our lives.   For service times and info, please visit us online or via our social media platforms: AuthenticOC.com   To stay up to date on all things Authentic, text the word "Authentic" to 94000   Subscribe to receive our latest messages!   #Sermon #AuthenticChurch #OrangeCountyChurch   We would be honored if you would like to support this ministry and help us continue to reach people with the authentic gospel... click here: https://pushpay.com/g/authenticoc   Love God. Love People. Live Authentic.   Stay Connected   Website: https://authenticoc.com/   Authentic Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthenticChurchOC/   Authentic Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authenticchurchoc/   Authentic Church YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWxskUerFuBNhLZI3wpqzlg  

We are doing a deep dive into the books of 1 and 2 Peter. Peter writes these letters to encourage the readers regarding how to live through difficult times. Enjoy!Speaker: Pastor Ben RamosSeries: STEADFAST THROUGH ADVERSITYScripture: 1 Peter 2:13-25

Send us a text. If you would like a response, please send us an email to bcoc@suddenlinkmail.com. Jim Laws

Feeling overlooked? In a success-driven world, Jesus reminds us that faithfulness matters most. Today, Pastor Dave Reno shares from Revelation 3:7–13 and the story of the faithful church in Philadelphia. Though small, they stayed true—and Jesus promised them open doors. Let's remember to stay faithful and trust God with our future. In what area of your life do you need to trust God today?

Drawing from Paul's concern for the Thessalonians after being forced to leave, the sermon explores the anxieties of uncertainty and the vital role of encouragement within the Christian community. It emphasizes the importance of steadfast faith, love for one another, and proactive engagement in spreading the gospel, highlighting the assurance of victory through Christ and the call to remain prepared for his return. The message underscores the ongoing battle against spiritual darkness, urging believers to embrace their roles as soldiers of light, fortified by fellowship and committed to sharing the hope found in Jesus, ultimately leading to a life unblameable in holiness.

In a world full of distractions and doubts, staying faithful can be a challenge. In “Steadfast in the Savior,” we learn from Peter how to keep our hearts pure, trust God's timing, and grow in grace and knowledge. This message offers practical steps to help you live with confidence and hope as you prepare for Jesus' return— building a faith that is truly grounded and unshakable.

We hope you have a blessed Sunday. Here is the sermon audio from our Pastor, Pastor Allan Houlie.Like our Facebook page: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/ubconfaceboo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠kFollow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/ubconinstagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit our website for more information: https://www.uitenhagebaptistchurch.co.za⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ All rights reserved to Uitenhage Baptist Church.

The church needs to remain steadfast in their mission to proclaim the gospel so that more people will put their trust in Jesus.

Today on the podcast:- Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman and 2-time Super Bowl champion Trey Smith shares his inspiring journey of overcoming adversity, the impact of faith and family, and the importance of resilience in the face of challenges. He reflects on his medical struggles in college, the loss of his mother, and how his faith has guided him through difficult times. Have a question? Got a guest suggestion? Want to advertise with us? Email us - jason@sportsspectrum.comWATCH all of our podcast episodes on our YouTube page:https://www.youtube.com/SportsSpectrumMagazineSign up for our Sports Spectrum Magazine and receive 15% off a 1-year subscription by using the code PODCAST15https://www.theincrease.com/products/sports-spectrum-magazine Do you know Christ personally? Click below to learn how you can commit your life to Him.https://sportsspectrum.com/gospel/Have you heard our other Sports Spectrum podcasts?Sports Spectrum's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠What's Up Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠with Annabelle Hasselbeck - https://open.spotify.com/show/7CvX5oXnEuKIYI5GCVT7Hi?si=9c61982675f1413dSports Spectrum's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get in the Game Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ with Scott Linebrink -https://open.spotify.com/show/7CFPZVet3TcsSJMZqRHndI?si=d6599c85917146a7

Interview with Lt. Col Allen West, Dallas County GOP Chair, Former TX GOP Chair, Former Member US Congress (FL,  CD 22), Host of Steadfast and Loyal Podcast, Army Combat VeteranFollow Debbie Georgatos, America Can We Talk Show HostWebsite: http://americacanwetalk.orgTwitter: @DebbieCanWeTalkTruth: https://truthsocial.com/@AmericaCanWeTalkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/debbiecanwetalkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericaCanWeTalkRumble: https://rumble.com/user/AmericaCanWeTalkOBBM: https://www.obbmnetwork.tv/series/america-can-we-talk-207873America Can We Talk is a show with a mission — to speak up for the extraordinary and unique greatness of America. I talk about the top issues of the day facing America, often with insightful guests, always from the perspective of furthering that mission, and with the goal to inspire listeners to celebrate and embrace the liberty on which America was founded. #BecauseAmericaMatters

In this captivating episode of the Meditative Prayers podcast, hosted by the insightful Zach Clinton and accessible on Pray.com, we delve into the profound theme of steadfastness—a quality deeply cherished within our Christian community. Along our spiritual journey, there are pivotal moments when maintaining our steadfastness becomes a paramount desire. These moments not only deepen our faith but also fortify our relationships, propelling us closer to our individual visions. The comforting truth remains unwavering: with the Lord as our steadfast guide, we possess the inherent capacity to uphold this steadfastness, uncovering renewed hope and purpose in our odyssey. Drawing profound inspiration from sacred scriptures, we embark on an expedition of this transformative human experience. For those who seek guidance in nurturing their steadfastness along their path of faith, we extend a heartfelt invitation to explore the Pray.com app. By simply downloading it today, you can embark on a transformative journey of faith and resilience, firmly anchored in the unwavering presence of the Divine. Together, let us wholeheartedly embrace the remarkable potential for steadfastness within us, finding endless inspiration and fortitude during our shared spiritual journey. We warmly invite you to join us in this illuminating episode as we journey towards a profound understanding of nurturing our steadfastness and discovering the extraordinary sense of resilience that resides within each of us. mbracing the practice of praying before slumber is more than just a routine; it's an avenue to recenter your heart, aligning it with God's purpose. Let Pray.com's Meditative Prayer be a nightly companion, deepening your bond with the Almighty and settling your spirit for a serene night's rest.Zach Clinton is from the American Association of Christian Counselors, for more information please visit: https://aacc.net/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Date: 06/29/2025Series: Book of James: Faith WorksSpeaker: Geoffrey Ekstein, Pastor/ElderScripture: James 5:10-12

Message from Al McCausland on 07/06/2025

Grant Perkins, Preaching Intern, brings a message from Acts 9:1-19 in the Steadfast series.

Acts 4:13-22 - Chris Price

We are doing a deep dive into the books of 1 and 2 Peter. Peter writes these letters to encourage the readers regarding how to live through difficult times. Enjoy!Speaker: Pastor Alicia RamosSeries: STEADFAST THROUGH ADVERSITYScripture: 1 Peter 1:22 - 2:12

For episode 535, Matthew Asbell joins Brandon Zemp to discuss IP protections on Blockchain.Matthew D. Asbell, a partner at Lippes Mathias LLP, has decades of experience advising clients globally on trademark and patent matters. As an intellectual property attorney, he's uniquely positioned to help small businesses navigate this pivotal moment in IP law. He assists clients in clearing, obtaining, enforcing, and defending trademarks, patents, designs, and copyrights in the United States and throughout the world. He also advises on domain names, social media, and related issues.Before becoming a lawyer, Matthew developed a broad base of expertise in roles across various industries, including managing emerging singer-songwriters, training corporate employees in software applications, and studying medicine.Matthew serves as an adjunct professor of law and guest lecturer at Fordham University and The Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law (Yeshiva University). He has also taught at Columbia University and the Instituto Superior de Derecho y Economía (ISDE) in Madrid, Spain, and regularly mentors new lawyers and law students.As the host of INTANGIFY, a regular podcast on the intangible aspects of business, Matthew explores the complexities of intellectual property. He co-chairs the intellectual property alumni practice group of Cardozo Law and leads Steadfast, an international network of IP practitioners. Additionally, he actively chairs and participates in bar association committees in the American Bar Association Section of Intellectual Property Law and the International Trademark Association.⏳ Timestamps: 0:00 | Introduction1:12 | Who is Matthew Asbell?3:43 | What is Lippes Mathias?6:08 | Intellectual Property in 202511:34 | IP protection solutions20:18 | NFTs and IP22:33 | Reputation and Likeness24:14 | Client cases32:38 | INTANGIFY Podcast36:36 | 2025 plans 

Join Pastor Al McCausland in “Paul's Last Words” as he brings 2 Timothy 4 to life. Discover the legacy of a faithful life and be inspired to finish your own race with purpose, passion, and unwavering hope.

Grant Perkins, Preaching Intern, brings a message from Acts 8:26-40 in the Steadfast series.

We are doing a deep dive into the books of 1 and 2 Peter. Peter writes these letters to encourage the readers regarding how to live through difficult times. Enjoy!Speaker: Pastor Benjamin RamosSeries: STEADFAST THROUGH ADVERSITYScripture: 1 Peter 1:13-22

James 1. Rev. Ben Cunningham. Recorded live at Church of the Resurrection on June 8, 2025.

James 1. Rev. Ben Cunningham. Recorded live at Church of the Resurrection on June 15, 2025.

On this episode of Impact Theory, Tom Bilyeu sits down with real estate developer and civic leader Rick Caruso for a powerful conversation about leadership, crisis management, and the future of Los Angeles. As political divisiveness and public safety concerns grip the city, Rick brings his firsthand experience tackling LA's toughest challenges—from the riots and police reform to wildfire recovery and urban renewal. Rick shares candid insights on what it takes to drive culture change, hold government accountable, and inspire real action in both the public and private sectors. With stories from rebuilding after devastating fires to navigating City Hall bureaucracy, you'll hear why Rick believes leadership, vision, and a commitment to competence are the keys to restoring pride and safety in our communities. Whether you're passionate about civic change or looking for inspiration on effective leadership, this episode delivers a masterclass in getting things done—even when the odds are stacked against you. SHOWNOTES 00:00 Los Angeles Culture Change Needed 05:24 Pathway to Citizenship Advocacy 08:01 Trump's Methods Critiqued 10:42 "Critique of Radical City Policies" 14:34 Effective Leadership: Inspire and Collaborate 19:33 "Leadership Critique of LA Mayors" 21:23 "Prioritizing Competence Over Ideology" 26:04 Fire Response Strategy Development 27:53 Preparedness Prevents Disaster in LA 31:26 Steadfast's Progress Amid Challenges 34:05 Elon Musk Podcast Speculation 37:05 Leadership Paralysis and Decision-Making 41:16 LA County Crime Policy Dynamics 44:17 "Action Over Words: Progress Focus" 48:11 "National Economic Divide" 49:45 "Subscribe and Be Legendary" CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS Vital Proteins: Get 20% off by going to https://www.vitalproteins.com and entering promo code IMPACT at check out Allio Capital: Macro investing for people who want to understand the big picture. Download their app in the App Store or at Google Play, or text my name “TOM” to 511511. iTrust Capital: Use code IMPACTGO when you sign up and fund your account to get a $100 bonus at https://www.itrustcapital.com/tombilyeu  Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at https://shopify.com/impact SKIMS: Shop SKIMS Mens at https://www.skims.com/impact #skimspartner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scripture:  Acts 6 Speaker:  Grant Perkins Summary:This sermon emphasizes the importance of the church staying true to its mission: sharing the gospel and caring for each other. Using examples like Kodak's failure and Chick-fil-A's success, Grant illustrates how knowing and living out a clear mission keeps an organization relevant. Acts 6 is used to show how the early church corrected "mission drift" by addressing neglect of Greek-speaking widows, empowering culturally different leaders, and uniting across divides. The message challenges the church today to break barriers—whether of race, politics, age, or ideology—by showing real, active care across those lines. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to embody Christ's example of love that transcends division to become a transformative presence in the world.

Justin Wesbrooks - Interactions With Jesus Steadfast and Patient by Amarillo Church of Christ Sermons

Series: A Call to be StaedfastService: Sun AM WorshipType: SermonSpeaker: Phillip Shumake

Psalm 89,I will sing of the steadfast love of the Lord, forever; with my mouth I will make known your faithfulness to all generations.2 For I said, “Steadfast love will be built up forever; in the heavens you will establish your faithfulness.”3 You have said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one; I have sworn to David my servant:4 ‘I will establish your offspring forever, and build your throne for all generations.'” Selah5 Let the heavens praise your wonders, O Lord, your faithfulness in the assembly of the holy ones!6 For who in the skies can be compared to the Lord? Who among the heavenly beings is like the Lord,7 a God greatly to be feared in the council of the holy ones, and awesome above all who are around him?8 O Lord God of hosts, who is mighty as you are, O Lord, with your faithfulness all around you?9 You rule the raging of the sea; when its waves rise, you still them.10 You crushed Rahab like a carcass; you scattered your enemies with your mighty arm.11 The heavens are yours; the earth also is yours; the world and all that is in it, you have founded them.12 The north and the south, you have created them; Tabor and Hermon joyously praise your name.13 You have a mighty arm; strong is your hand, high your right hand.14 Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.15 Blessed are the people who know the festal shout, who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face,16 who exult in your name all the day and in your righteousness are exalted.17 For you are the glory of their strength; by your favor our horn is exalted.18 For our shield belongs to the Lord, our king to the Holy One of Israel.19 Of old you spoke in a vision to your godly one, and said: “I have granted help to one who is mighty; I have exalted one chosen from the people.20 I have found David, my servant; with my holy oil I have anointed him,21 so that my hand shall be established with him; my arm also shall strengthen him.22 The enemy shall not outwit him; the wicked shall not humble him.23 I will crush his foes before him and strike down those who hate him.24 My faithfulness and my steadfast love shall be with him, and in my name shall his horn be exalted.25 I will set his hand on the sea and his right hand on the rivers.26 He shall cry to me, ‘You are my Father, my God, and the Rock of my salvation.'27 And I will make him the firstborn, the highest of the kings of the earth.28 My steadfast love I will keep for him forever, and my covenant will stand firm for him.29 I will establish his offspring forever and his throne as the days of the heavens.30 If his children forsake my law and do not walk according to my rules,31 if they violate my statutes and do not keep my commandments,32 then I will punish their transgression with the rod and their iniquity with stripes,33 but I will not remove from him my steadfast love or be false to my faithfulness.34 I will not violate my covenant or alter the word that went forth from my lips.35 Once for all I have sworn by my holiness; I will not lie to David.36 His offspring shall endure forever, his throne as long as the sun before me.37 Like the moon it shall be established forever, a faithful witness in the skies.” Selah38 But now you have cast off and rejected; you are full of wrath against your anointed.39 You have renounced the covenant with your servant; you have defiled his crown in the dust.40 You have breached all his walls; you have laid his strongholds in ruins.41 All who pass by plunder him; he has become the scorn of his neighbors.42 You have exalted the right hand of his foes; you have made all his enemies rejoice.43 You have also turned back the edge of his sword, and you have not made him stand in battle.44 You have made his splendor to cease and cast his throne to the ground.45 You have cut short the days of his youth; you have covered him with shame. Selah46 How long, O Lord? Will you hide yourself forever? How long will your wrath burn like fire?47 Remember how short my time is! For what vanity you have created all the children of man!48 What man can live and never see death? Who can deliver his soul from the power of Sheol? Selah49 Lord, where is your steadfast love of old, which by your faithfulness you swore to David?50 Remember, O Lord, how your servants are mocked, and how I bear in my heart the insults[f] of all the many nations,51 with which your enemies mock, O Lord, with which they mock the footsteps of your anointed.52 Blessed be the Lord forever!Amen and Amen.Structure and SummaryThis psalm is the final psalm in Book Three of the Psalms. The first two books are mainly written by David, while the third book has psalms primarily written by Asaph and emphasizes holy worship. Nevertheless, this final psalm focuses on God's covenant with David.The psalm is arranged into five sections: two small sections at the beginning and end, and three larger sections in the middle. The first section (v. 1-4) introduces the twin themes: God's character and his covenant with David. In this psalm, his character is defined by his steadfast love and his faithfulness, both of which appear seven times in the psalm. Both of these words describe God's character, but they are particularly applied in terms of his covenant with David — the promise that the seed of David will sit on an everlasting throne (v. 3-4). Notice the verbs in 2-4: steadfast love will be built up forever; and David's throne will be built forever. God's faithfulness is established in the heavens; David's offspring will be established forever. And this is crucial: the psalmist says he will sing of God's steadfast love and faithfulness forever.The psalmist then celebrates God's majesty, might, and saving power (v. 5-16). God is incomparable; there is no one like him. He sits enthroned among his heavenly council, but he is supreme over all of them.All of creation belongs to God. He is the Almighty Maker of Heaven and Earth. His dominion is from north to south, and east to west, from the highest heavens to the seas to the land. He is all-powerful, with a strong right hand and mighty arm. But he's not merely a tower of power, like the false god of Islam. His power is directed by his holy character. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne, and his steadfast love and faithfulness go before him, radiating from his presence (v. 14). But God isn't simply unique among the heavenly beings; nor does he simply rule the heavens and the earth from his throne. He also crushes his enemies. In this passage, Rahab is not a reference to the prostitute from Jericho. Instead it's a reference to a dragon-demon associated with Egypt (Psalm 87:4; Isa 30:7). Crushing Rahab is linked to ruling and stilling the sea, just as God crushed the king of Egypt beneath a wall of water. Job 26:12,“By his power he stilled the sea; by his understanding he shattered Rahab.”Isaiah 51:9,“Awake, awake, put on strength, O arm of the LORD; awake, as in days of old, the generations of long ago. Was it not you who cut Rahab in pieces, who pierced the dragon?”This is a celebration of God's majesty, might, and saving power, and the people who belong to God and join this celebration and walk in the light of his face are blessed (v. 15-16). God is the glory and beauty of his people's strength (v. 17). Then the psalmist brings God's majesty to earth and links it to his covenant promises to David. Israel's king is Israel's shield (v. 18), and God is the one who found, helped, anointed, and exalted (v. 19-20). God's mighty hand and arm? They establish and strengthen David (v. 21). Just as God tore Rahab apart, so will the Davidic king outwit and beat down his enemies (v. 23). God's steadfast love and faithfulness will be with David (v. 24), and David will call upon God as Father, and God will make him his firstborn, the king of kings (v.26-27), and he will establish David's offspring on an everlasting throne (v. 28-29).God's covenant with David and his sons will endure, even if and when David's sons break God's law. Discipline? Yes. Rod? Yes? Rejection? No. Why? Because of God's steadfast love and faithfulness (v. 33). God's character has established this covenant with an oath (v. 34-35), and David's offspring and throne will endure as long as the sun, moon, and stars — faithful witnesses in the sky (v. 36-37).Then we have the turn. Verse 38 introduces a contrast. For the next ten verses, God's steadfast love and faithfulness are completely absent. Instead, we see a rejected son (v.28), a renounced covenant, a defiled crown (v. 39), breached walls, ruined fortresses (v. 40), plundered cities (v. 41), triumphant foes, rejoicing enemies (v. 42), a throne in the dust, and shame, scorn, and reproach in every direction (v. 41, 45). God's wrath has come upon the people because the king, David's son, has rebelled against God. And so the psalmist is confused. In light of God's character and covenant, how can this be? How long will it last (v. 46)? If God's character and covenant fail, then everything is futile, vain, and worthless (v. 47). Will the psalmist see God's saving power before he dies, because no one escapes the power of Sheol (v. 48)?The final section is an appeal to God's steadfast love and his faithfulness to David, in light of the mocking reproach of the nations (v. 50-51). The psalmist asks where God's covenant love has gone, begs him to remember his promise, and concludes with a triumphant hope: Blessed be the Lord forever (v. 52). Read Your Story in Light of the StoryOne of the great values of regular Bible reading is knowing what story you're a part of, and being able to read your life in light of it. This psalm is filled with echoes and allusions to the big events of Israel's history. Listen to these passages:The revelation of God's name, glory, and goodness to Moses in Exodus 34:6,“The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, 7 keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children's children, to the third and the fourth generation.”In this psalm, the psalmist emphasizes God's oath (v. 3, 35, 49) and covenant (v. 3, 28, 34) three times each. Hebrews 6:13-20 tells us that when God wants to convincingly and abundantly show the unchangeable character of his promise, he swears by himself, like he does to Abraham after the sacrifice of Isaac (Gen. 22:16-18, which Moses appeals to at the Golden Calf episode in Exodus 32:13), or in Isaiah 45:23, when God swears by himself that every knee will bow and every tongue swear allegiance to him as the only righteous God and Savior, or in Amos 4:2 when God swears by his holiness that he will bring judgment on the pride, idolatry, and oppression of Israel's leaders.Genesis 22:16-18,“By myself I have sworn, declares the LORD, because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, 17 I will surely bless you, and I will surely multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. And your offspring shall possess the gate of his enemies, 18 and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed my voice.”Exodus 32:13,“Remember Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, your servants, to whom you swore by your own self, and said to them, ‘I will multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven, and all this land that I have promised I will give to your offspring, and they shall inherit it forever.'”Isaiah 45:22-23,“Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other. By myself I have sworn; from my mouth has gone out in righteousness a word that shall not return: ‘To me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear allegiance.'”Amos 4:2,“The Lord GOD has sworn by his holiness that, behold, the days are coming upon you, when they shall take you away with hooks, even the last of you with fishhooks.”The psalm draws heavily on the promise to David in 2 Samuel 7:When your days are fulfilled and you lie down with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, who shall come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever (89:4, 29, 36). 14 I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son (89:26). When he commits iniquity, I will discipline him with the rod of men, with the stripes of the sons of men (89:30-32), 15 but my steadfast love will not depart from him (89:33-34), as I took it from Saul, whom I put away from before you. 16 And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever.' (vv. 12-16)In order to lay the groundwork for the key fight of faith, the psalmist pulls together these biblical themes:God's name and characterGod's oath by which he swears by himselfThe covenant God made with DavidWhat Is Real?This is the real question. The gap in this psalm is between what the psalmist knows of God's character and covenant on the one hand, and the circumstances at the present moment. Who God is (steadfast love and faithfulness) and what God has said (oath and covenant to David) seem out of accord with the reality before him (judgment, wrath, and a crown in the dust). That is the question for all of us when the world seems confusing, futile, and vain. Do we interpret our circumstances in light of God's character and covenant? Or do we abandon God's character and covenant in the face of our circumstances?God has promised the nations to Christ as his inheritance (Psalm 2:8; Matthew 28:12-20). And then we look at the state of the world, and the state of our nation, and see the rampant apostasy, rebellion, and decay around us. What's more real? God's character and covenant? Or sexual deviancy, political corruption, and widespread evangelical apathy and compromise? When you see the crown in the dust, when the walls are breached and the cities are burning and the enemies of God and his people are rejoicing — do you pray like this? How long, O Lord?At present, we don't see everything subjected to him, but we see Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death.When your kids wander, or when they get a case of the wobbles: what's more real? God's character and covenant? Or the wobbles and wandering? How do you pray? Do you bless God in confidence that he will hear and answer? Do you still sing of the steadfast love of the Lord? Does your mouth still make known his faithfulness to future generations?Or maybe it's your own faith and holiness. Your own remaining sin frustrates you, and you wonder what to make of all of those promises — that God will sanctify you and make you holy, that he will put your sin to death and deliver you from the domain of darkness. When you see your abiding anger and envy, your drunkenness and lust, your anxiety and fear of man, your worldliness and selfishness, you feel the confusion and vanity. What is more real to you? Do you still sing of the steadfast love of the Lord?This is not hypocrisy; it's what a living faith does when confronted with the vanity of man and the discipline of God. Faith honestly confronts the facts on the ground, and then appeals to God's character and his covenant. And maybe there is a lesson for us in the proportions of the psalm. 70% of the psalm (37/52 verses) is devoted to rehearsing and celebrating God's character and covenant, his steadfast love and faithfulness.20% of the psalm (11/52 verses) confronts the current facts on the ground.The last 10% (4/52 verses) offers a simple prayer for God to remember his covenant and character, along with a concluding declaration of praise (“Blessed be the Lord, forever!”).How much of your mental attention is devoted to rooting yourself in God's steadfast love and faithfulness, in rehearsing his mighty deeds and covenant promises, and how much is spent fixating on the breached walls, triumphant enemies, and reproaching shame?In other words, the confusion is real and the situation is hard and ugly, but he lands on the oath, on the covenant, on God's character, and makes good on his opening promise: “I will sing of the steadfast love of the Lord forever…” (even when the city is burning and the crown is in the dust).Christ's CrownChrist is the offspring of David. He crushed the dragon's head. He stilled the waves. He was strengthened by God's grace. His enemies did not outwit him. The wicked did not humble him. God anointed him with his Spirit, and established and exalted him above the angels and the powers. But Christ himself faced God's rejection and absence.“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”His crown was defiled in the dust. His days were cut short, and he was covered in shame. But Christ bridged the gap between God's character and covenant, and the rejection and crown in the dust. In his darkest moments, he called upon God as Father (89:26). In Gethsemane: “My Father, if possible, let this cup pass from me…My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done” (Matthew 26:39-42).At Calvary, when with a crown of thorns, mocked and reproached as his enemies rejoiced:“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do…Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:34, 46). The psalmist's question that haunts the psalm: What man can live and never see death? Who can deliver his soul from the power of Sheol? Christ saw death…and he swallowed it whole. He crushed both Death and the Dragon. Where is the steadfast love of the Lord? Where is his faithfulness that he swore to David? It's on a Roman cross. It's exalted at God's right hand, seated above every angelic and demonic power, ruling over heaven and earth, as God puts all of his enemies under his feet. That's why in Revelation 1:5, Christ is introduced with distinctive language from Psalm 89 as “the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings on earth.”And his oath and covenant are sealed in blood. He swore by his holiness. He swore by his faithfulness. And that faithfulness is yours.His oath, his covenant, his bloodsupport me in the whelming flood.When all around my soul gives way,he then is all my hope and stay.

Join Pastor Andy Popovich in “Perilous Times and Perilous Men” to explore how Paul's warnings to Timothy apply to us today. Discover how to stay grounded in truth when culture drifts from righteousness.

The 1957 war movie The Bridge on the River Kwai was so popular that fans flocked to Kanchanaburi in Thailand to look for the real-life iron bridge. They found the bridge, but it wasn’t on the Kwai—the movie got the river’s name wrong! Soon, however, that part of the Mae Klong River was renamed Kwae Yai (Kwai) so it would align with people’s expectations. Jesus never let the expectations of others cause Him to waver in His divine mission. People flocked to see Him because they heard of the signs and miracles He had performed (John 6:2). When they found Him and believed that He was the promised Messiah, they wanted Him as a military leader so He’d save them from Roman rule. John says, “Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself” (v. 15). Despite the pressure to rescue people the way they wanted, Christ resolutely followed God’s plan to rescue them the way they needed to be rescued (Colossians 1:13)—not from earthly troubles but from the power of sin and death (Romans 8:2). Jesus’ unwavering will to provide what we need is why we can trust Him in all circumstances. When God’s ways don’t seem to align with our expectations, we can be assured that His plan is always better—because He doesn’t waver in His will to save us.

In this episode of Footnotes, Greg revisits the June 1 sermon, “Stable and Steadfast." Focusing on Colossians 1:9–12, Greg explores Paul's prayer that believers would grow in spiritual wisdom and the knowledge of God's will—centered not on abstract guidance, but on knowing and following Jesus. He explains how spiritual maturity is a Spirit-powered, grace-driven upward spiral: knowing God leads to obedience, which deepens our knowledge of Him. Greg highlights we're not self-made saints, but qualified by God, strengthened by His Spirit, and joyfully welcomed as His children. Listen to the sermonWatch this episode on Youtube

When life hits hard, who can you count on—and more importantly, can others count on you?In Part 7 of our transformative series Juicy Fruit: A Garden of Godly Character, Pastor Talaat McNeely delivers a powerful and prophetic message entitled “Faithfulness – The Steadfast Tree.” Drawing from Lamentations 3:22–23, this message explores how true faithfulness is formed—not in comfort, but in crisis. You'll discover that while storms may shake your branches, they can also deepen your roots.From the powerful imagery of the 9/11 Survivor Tree to the raw moments of personal doubt and divine reassurance, Pastor Talaat unpacks what it means to be a tree planted by the water—unshakable, fruitful, and faithful through every season.

While we flee from lesser trials, Jesus' obedience in the ultimate suffering secures our salvation and hope forever. Mark 14:27-42 shows us the weakness of the disciples and the total obedience of Jesus. Pastor Matthew McCleary, Associate Pastor Mark 14:27-41 Visit our website at www.fremontpres.org Email us at podcast@fremontpres.org 

Message from Ryan Styre on 06/15/2025

This week, Pastor Jeff continues our series in the Psalms named Selah. The next message in the series is based in Psalm 92 and is entitled "Steadfast and Faithful." The main idea of the sermon is: The steadfast love and faithfulness of the LORD produce the fruit of gratitude in the people of God. ————————  Connect with Us: Website: parkwoodonline.org Facebook: facebook.com/parkwoodonline Instagram: instagram.com/parkwoodonline.org  Check out more resources and sermons online at: parkwoodresources.org

Reflections on America while riding cross-country to honor our fallen. #LAriots #DDay This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit allenwest.substack.com/subscribe

“What is hard about marriage is what is hard also about facing the Christian God: It is the strain of living continually in the light of a conscience other than our own, being under the intimate scrutiny of another pair of eyes.”— Mike Mason, The Mystery of MarriageWhat is the fruit of a decade given over to apprenticeship, to the slow work of excavation, and to the painful but promising transformation within the Kingdom of God? More precisely, what is the fruit born from the tender soil of our closest relationships?Over twenty-five years spent investing in the shaping of leaders, I have found one of the deepest and most gladdening sources of confirmation to be the voices of the wives of Become Good Soil men. It is one thing, after all, for a man to speak of his own progress—but it is quite another, and perhaps of far greater weight, when a spouse dares to offer her own candid reflections on what it is to share life with one who has set his whole heart upon the precarious path of becoming.As we prepare to launch into an extended BGS Podcast series—a deeper dive into the central truths of Becoming a King—it seems only fitting, indeed right and good, and more than a little risky, to let this voyage begin with the voices of women. These are women who generously offer their honest and loving observations from a deep well of intimate relationships.This episode features the voices of four remarkable women whose husbands have been engaged with the message of Become Good Soil for a decade or more. Join me as they share about the joyous, transformative effects they've witnessed in every dimension of their husbands' lives, their marriages, and their families.For the Kingdom,Morgan and Cherie