Podcasts about Surrender

Ukrainian officials are pushing back on a purported peace plan that would require major concessions to Russia. A former American ambassador to Ukraine tells us Kyiv won't accept any deal that looks like surrender. A paramedic in Saskatoon tells us a toxic drug supply caused more than a hundred overdoses in just seven days -- and that crisis has also taken a toll on first responders. An Indigenous woman whose mother lost her status for marrying a non-Indigenous man celebrates a change meant to ensure that status passes through generations -- regardless of who you marry. An Oxford University biologist traces the history of the kiss -- and finds that the ancestors of humans and other large apes were locking lips at least 16 million years ago. When an NBA rookie's parents suggested he invite some friends over for dinner, they weren't expecting the whole Charlotte Hornets roster to turn up.We hate a mosquito's proboscis when it's sucking our blood -- but we love a mosquito's proboscis when scientists take it off the mosquito, and use it as a nozzle in a 3D printer. As It Happens, the Thursday Edition. Radio that presents a good nose/bad nose scenario.

Tonight on The Last Word: Donald Trump says he signed a bill to release the Epstein files. Also, the Justice Department acknowledges a full grand jury never saw the final James Comey indictment. And Boston Mayor Michelle Wu stands up to “wannabe dictators.” Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, and Mayor Michelle Wu join Lawrence O'Donnell. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this guided meditation episode of Five Minutes of Peace, we welcome back life coach David Lawson to lead listeners through a transformative visualization to help release limiting beliefs and consciously create the future they want.David begins with grounding breathwork—inviting you to sit comfortably, breathe deeply, and feel energy rise from the soles of your feet to the crown of your head. As you settle into stillness, he guides you to imagine a peaceful place in nature — a beach, a forest, or a meadow — where your mind and body can relax into calm awareness.He then explains how the power of conscious thought can rewire your brain. By recognizing and releasing unwanted emotions or stories that no longer serve you, you can shift from anxiety and self-doubt toward freedom and empowerment. Through this process, David teaches that awareness gives you choice — the ability to stop old patterns, cancel them, and consciously create new beliefs aligned with your higher self.Listeners are invited to:Identify and release emotions that keep them stuck.Surrender old energy to the universe for transformation.Visualize their new self — free, peaceful, and empowered.Trust in the universe's support to sustain that change.The meditation closes with gentle reminders to breathe, relax, and re-enter your day with renewed energy and awareness.David Lawson is a transformational life coach and founder of Awake Warrior, based in Toronto, Ontario. His work focuses on conscious living, emotional release, and empowering individuals to awaken their highest potential through mindfulness and personal development.Learn more about David's work at www.awakewarrior.com.Five Minutes of Peace is produced by The Peace Room in Boise, Idaho — a space dedicated to Reiki, energy healing, and conscious living.Learn more or book a session at www.ThePeaceRoom.love.

Manifest Your Abundant Dream Life: https://www.affirmationtomanifestation.com/abundance  Master Manifesting in 11 Days: https://www.affirmationtomanifestation.com/mastery

2025-11-20 | Silicon Wafers 061 | When is peace not peace? What it's proposed by the Kremlin, as a pretext for more war, and a strategy to attempt to divide Ukraine from its allies and partners. This is what we are seeing now – a ‘brand-new' surrender plan cooked up in the Kremlin, which in fact contains nothing new, and has no chance of success. Shame on the media that are hyping this as a new development, with new proposals, which we are expected to take seriously. There's nothing in it that's new – it contains the same maximalist demands that Putin's been making throughout the war, and they are as unrealistic and unacceptable as they always were. We should not take it seriously, because the only serious aspect to this geopolitical farce, is that Ukrainians are still fighting and dying and being slaughtered in their homes and tortured across the occupied territories. The only new aspect to this surrender plan stitched together in secret, and without Ukraine's involvement by witless Steve Witkoff and Kiril Dmitriev, is that the language and framing are even more gross than before – even more transactional, and ludicrous. The intent to inflict humiliation on Ukraine even more palpable. ----------SOURCES: Axios – “Scoop: U.S. secretly drafting new plan to end Ukraine war” (19 Nov 2025)Reuters – “Ukraine expected to give up land, some arms under US peace plan, sources say” (20 Nov 2025)Reuters – “Kremlin plays down media report of new efforts on Ukraine peace” (19 Nov 2025)Reuters – “White House working with Russia on new Ukraine peace plan, Axios reports” (19 Nov 2025)The Guardian – “US and Russian officials have reportedly drafted 28-point plan to end Ukraine war” (20 Nov 2025)The Moscow Times – coverage of leaked terms including army cuts and weapons limits The Times (UK) – “US pushes Ukraine to halve army in secret peace plan with Kremlin” (20 Nov 2025)Kyiv Independent – “Kyiv alarmed as US pushes Ukraine peace framework aligning with Moscow's maximalist demands” (19–20 Nov 2025)Kyiv Independent – “Trump envoy Kellogg to depart White House, leaving Ukraine without key US champion in moment of crisis” (20 Nov 2025)Kyiv Post – “Kallas Rejects Any US-Russia Peace Plan That Sidelines Ukraine, Europe” (20 Nov 2025)Kyiv Post – “Witkoff Deleted Tweet Fuels Scramble as West Rejects Alleged Trump Ukraine Plan as ‘Kremlin Fantasy'” (20 Nov 2025)Kyiv Post – “US Peace Plan Would See Russia Keep Donbas in Exchange for ‘Rental Fee,' Sources Say” (20 Nov 2025)Kyiv Post – Timothy Snyder, “OPINION: How to Negotiate With Russia” (19 Nov 2025)The Economist – “A terrible American-Russian proposal to end the war in Ukraine” (19 Nov 2025) Sky News – “Steve Witkoff: Who is the real estate mogul tasked with brokering peace in Ukraine?” (24 Mar 2025)The Guardian – “Trump and special envoy Witkoff stand to reap rewards from official business” (30 May 2025)Reuters / FT profiles of Kirill Dmitriev and RDIFBiographical notes on Rustem Umerov – Wikipedia.org----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SILICON CURTAIN LIVE EVENTS - FUNDRAISER CAMPAIGN Events in 2025 - Advocacy for a Ukrainian victory with Silicon Curtainhttps://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrasOur events of the first half of the year in Lviv, Kyiv and Odesa were a huge success. Now we need to maintain this momentum, and change the tide towards a Ukrainian victory. The Silicon Curtain Roadshow is an ambitious campaign to run a minimum of 12 events in 2025, and potentially many more. Any support you can provide for the fundraising campaign would be gratefully appreciated. https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------

Joy, aging well, midlife mindset shifts, and vibrant living—this Saddle Up segment dives into the real tools women need to feel more joyful, purposeful, and empowered. In this episode, Lesa shares four practical steps to experience more joy daily, inspired by her powerful conversation with 67-year-old competitive athlete and ballroom dancer Robin Kencel. Learn how meaning, mindset, judgment, and surrender impact your ability to live joyfully after 40. This episode will help you rethink joy, deepen purpose, and take simple steps toward a more vibrant, aligned life.In this conversation, you'll hear how joy connects to purpose, why joy is a choice, how joy grows when judgment stops, and the mindset shifts that create more joy in midlife and beyond.Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction to joy, aging well & vibrant living(01:12) Lessons from podcast guest Robin Kencel(03:15) Joy comes from meaning and purpose(05:24) Why joy is a choice (and how small shifts change everything)(08:06) The “pick your joy” mindset and tiny habit building(11:10) How judgment steals your joy(13:20) Rewiring old thought patterns in midlife(15:18) Surrender: letting go of the oars(17:30) A simple thought that instantly brings more peace(19:02) Episode recap: the 4 steps to grow joy every day(20:12) Closing encouragement & next week's guest teaseKey Takeaways:Joy comes from meaning and purpose—alignment creates energy and ease.Joy is a choice, built through daily mindset decisions.Judgment blocks joy, both self-judgment and judging others.Surrender allows clarity—letting go of urgency creates immediate peace.Small steps compound, making joy and well-being more sustainable.Guest Bio (from Tuesday's main episode):Robin Kencel isn't just breaking records—she's redefining what it means to age with purpose. She is the reigning Ms. Senior Connecticut and finished third runner-up in the national Ms. Senior America competition. A seven-time U.S. Pro-Am Ballroom Champion, Robin draws on decades of competitive dance experience to inspire others to stay active, confident, and spiritually grounded at any age.Her philosophy blends faith, fitness, and mindset, encouraging women to embrace every season of life with grace and joy.Resource Links:Listen to the full episode with Robin Kencel (Tuesday's main show) Join the Doing Life Different Newsletter here!Follow the Saddle Up Segment for weekly inspirationTags/Keywords:joy, midlife joy, aging well, women over 40, mindset shifts, purpose and meaning, vibrant living, midlife wellness, surrender mindset, stop judging, emotional health, personal growth, women's empowerment, joy tools, aging with confidence, Saddle Up segment, Lesa Koski, Doing Life Different, midlife coaching

Standing for your marriage can be one of the loneliest journeys, but you were never meant to do it alone. In this episode of the Fight for Your Marriage Podcast, Charlyne and Lori talk with Tessa about practical ways to find and build godly community during your stand.   Together, they share wisdom on how to identify safe people, balance vulnerability with discernment, connect across age and life stages, and keep Jesus at the center of every friendship.   You'll learn simple, intentional ways to reach out, serve others, pray together, and recognize how God may already be placing the right people in your path. If you've been praying for meaningful friendships during this season, this episode will remind you that God cares deeply about your need for community.   Join a Connect Group Here   Ep 210 – Even If: A Journey of Surrender and Hope – Tessa's Testimony   Ep 204 – Faith & Friendship – Trusting Jesus as the Ultimate Friend and Navigating Changes in Friendships   Download the episode transcription here     Follow on Instagram - @rejoicemarriageministries   Follow on Facebook - @rejoicemarriageministries   Every day, you can receive encouragement straight to your inbox through our Fight for Your Marriage Devotional and find free resources and prayers to pray over your marriage. To take advantage of these resources and others, visit https://rejoiceministries.org   We appreciate your feedback. If this episode touches you, please leave us a five-star rating and review, helping us reach new listeners with hope for their marriage. You can also subscribe to our show on YouTube, Spotify or iTunes.  

01. Shapov, Swanky Tunes - Desejante 02. Big Gigantic, The Funk Hunters, Chali 2Na - Beat Don't Stop 03. Volkoder - Act Up (Bad Boy) 04. Soulmanic - Acid Girl 05. Gabry Ponte - Bump 06. Hugel, Vidojean, Oliver Loenn, Mr Alameyo - SXY 07. Dont Blink - It's Our House 08. Jay Robinson, Liinks - Fiendin' 09. Darius Syrossian, Kathy Brown - Work It Out 10. Then - Lucid Ashes 11. Faithless, Bebe Rexha - Dollars And Dimes 12. Naarly, Ant Mifsud, Thabza De Soul - Khanya 13. Chris Avantgarde, Pote - Down For The Night 14. Malaa - Bonnie 15. Adam Matson, Richard Grey - Coming Home 16. Afterman, Yvvan Back, Jl & Afterman - Don't Stop Go 17. Dj Snake - Monte Carlo 18. Surrender, Dombresky - This Feeling 19. Don Diablo - Freek Like Me 20. Sonny Fodera, D.O.D, Poppy Baskcomb - Think About Us 21. Dubdogz, Victor Alc - Sudamerica 22. Kapuzen - Taking Over 23. Sick Individuals - How We Feelin 24. Dj Susan, Proppa, Lachi - Top Spot 25. Innellea, Script - Trust 26. Cassian, Matt Ryder - A Feeling I Miss 27. Wenzday - Keep On Dancin' 28. G-Pol, Arta - Discoteka 29. Brohug - Dont Sleep 30. Thomas Newson, Guz - Get Raw 31. Blondish, Darco, Broken Hill - GOAT 32. Deniero - One More Time 33. Steve Aoki, Lucas & Steve - Loco 34. Dj Kuba, Neitan, Bounce Inc - Work My Body 35. Martin Ikin, Hayley May - Rush 36. Leandro Da Silva, Johnnie Ernest, Jeen Seigo - Subala Y Bajo 37. Cosmic Gate, Diana Miro - Never Erase You 38. Betical - Do It Again

Pastor Corbett continues our Defining Worship series by reminding us that true worship isn't just a song—it's a lifestyle marked by obedience. Using Abraham's costly obedience in Genesis 22 and the priests' empty sacrifices in Malachi 1, he shows the difference between worship rooted in surrender and worship offered with a divided heart. Drawing from Colossians 1, he calls us to “walk in a manner worthy of the Lord,” letting our love, service, generosity, and witness overflow as acts of worship. The challenge: identify where God is calling you to obey and let your whole life reflect the worth of Jesus. Join us every Tuesday in the LSM Buidling at 7 p.m. & follow us on instagram @lyahampton for updates!

Knowing and doing the will of God is vital to an effective walk with God. It allows an individual to be certain that God's desires for his life are being accomplished. When the will of God is a priority, the purposes of God will be accomplished.

In today's lesson from 1 Samuel 15, we step into a crucial the moment in Biblical history when God rejects Saul as king. What begins as a clear command from God quickly becomes a portrait of how subtle and dangerous self-deception can be. We walk through the centuries-long background behind God's judgment on Amalek, tracing the story from Israel's wilderness years all the way to Saul's battlefield. Against that backdrop, Saul's response becomes even more striking: instead of obeying completely, he chooses selective obedience, keeping what looked valuable and justifying it with spiritual language. As the story unfolds, we see how easily the human heart twists God's Word. Saul reshapes God's command, redefines what obedience means, and convinces himself he has done exactly what God asked—while standing surrounded by the very evidence of his disobedience. Samuel exposes this with the piercing truth that God is not impressed by outward acts of worship that are used to cover inward rebellion. The famous line, “To obey is better than sacrifice,” becomes the anchor of the entire passage, reminding us that God desires submission more than spiritual performance. This chapter confronts us with the danger of consulting our own reasoning instead of trusting God's clear commands. Saul trusted his feelings, his logic, and his desires, elevating them to the level of God's authority. That decision becomes a form of idolatry and a warning to us: partial obedience is not obedience at all. Yet the story doesn't end in despair. It ultimately points us toward a better King—the one who faced the hardest command ever given and still prayed, “Not my will, but Yours be done.” If you've ever struggled with compromise, justification, or adjusting God's standards to fit your own, this lesson offers both a challenge and a hope. It calls us to lay down our reinterpretations and follow the example of Christ with a heart fully surrendered to God.

Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Hey, it's Katie and I want to welcome you to this special bonus episode. It'll be here for you completely ad-free for the next week so you can get a feel of what it's like to be a PREMIUM member. If you'd like an easy ad-free experience for all of our podcasts - that's over 200 episodes each month, then JOIN PREMIUM today at https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at hello@womensmeditationnetwork.com to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,

Feeling in-between—no longer your old self, not quite your new one? This episode unpacks what a true transformation season looks like and how current cosmic energies (the waning Moon, 11/11 portal, and Scorpio influence) are supporting deep inner evolution.In This Episode• What a “season of transformation” really is• Grace + Kaylee's personal stories of navigating transition• How the waning Moon invites release, slowing down, and simplification• The 11/11 portal as a gateway for alignment + intuitive clarity• Scorpio energy (11/19) and emotional purging, shadow work, and rebirth

When you walk through dry or weary seasons, remember: God still meets you at the altar. Rebuilding your altar is the path through every wilderness. Pastor Bobby Chaw reminds us that the altar requires three things — making communion with God a PRIORITY, allowing His Word to bring PURITY, and offering your life in SURRENDER. The fire of the Spirit falls where there is a sacrifice.

Have you ever wondered if God still heals today? In this powerful episode of Faith Fueled Woman, Kristin Fitch talks with author Kathleen Johnson about her personal journey of pain, surrender, and miraculous healing through Christ.Together, they explore how God's healing power touches every part of us—body, mind, and spirit—and why faith requires more than believing that God can heal, but trusting that He will. Kathleen shares inspiring stories of transformation and biblical truths that remind us healing isn't just a promise for the past—it's available to us now.If you've been praying for breakthrough, or simply need hope that God is still at work in your life, this conversation will encourage you to believe again in His power to restore and renew. TakeawaysGod still heals today. Healing isn't limited to Bible times—it's part of Christ's ongoing work in our lives.Faith means believing God will, not just that He can. True trust transforms how we pray and wait for healing.Healing is holistic. Christ's restoration covers mind, body, and spirit—bringing peace and renewal.Testimonies build faith. Sharing our healing stories inspires others and reminds us of God's faithfulness.Invite God into your pain. Surrender opens the door for comfort, restoration, and renewed purpose.Connect with Kathleen at KathleenJohnsonMinistries.com or HealedtoHeal.comDownload My Free Joyful Living Devotional: https://kristinfitch.com/devotionalReady to take your first step towards a more joyful, faith-filled life? Download our Reignite Your Passion Workbook and start living with purpose today!Ready to work with Kristin to make a shift in your life? Click here to get started.Christian healing podcast • faith and healing • Jesus heals today • miracles and faith • divine restoration • healing power of Christ • Holy Spirit healing • testimonies of healing • mind body spirit wellness • overcoming illness with faith • Christian women encouragement • prayer for healing • faith and miracles • biblical healing promises • trusting God in hard times • spiritual growth for women • healing through Jesus • Christian mindset podcast

Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player. Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Take a deep breath in, And slowly exhale. Let the day fall away Like leaves from a tree, Releasing one by one With each breath you take. PAUSE Settle deeper into your bed now, And feel your body soften. Let the blankets hold you, As if they were arms Of the earth herself. PAUSE Sink. Soften. Surrender. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,

Hey friend, Jody here. Tonight, we'll flow with the gentle imagery of the Water Bearer—releasing, surrendering, and finding peace as you drift into sleep. So breathe softly, get cozy, and let's flow into rest together. Sweet dreams my friend,  Jody Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player. Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Take a deep breath in, And slowly exhale. Let the day fall away Like leaves from a tree, Releasing one by one With each breath you take. PAUSE Settle deeper into your bed now, And feel your body soften. Let the blankets hold you, As if they were arms Of the earth herself. PAUSE Sink. Soften. Surrender. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,

Ready to leave burnout and chaos behind? Tune in to Episode 178 of the DYL Podcast where host Adam Gragg teams up with Legacy Coaches Sherman Orr and Kelsey Torkelson for a lively, honest, and practical dive into the secret sauce of living a well-balanced life.Discover how purpose adds fuel to your happiness, why surrender is your superpower, and how structure can turn your wild garden of life into a blooming masterpiece. Laugh along with stories of accidental wisdom and honest struggles, get real-life tips for tackling perfectionism, and find out how simple rituals and small tweaks can transform your relationships, energy, and joy, at work and at home.Don't wait until you're 80 to figure out what matters! Join the DYL Podcast and start making bold, balanced moves today. Listen now for practical tools, heartfelt stories, and a contagious dose of courage to help you decide, and live, your legacy.Click Here ➡️ Shatterproof Yourself Light CourseTop 5 Most Relatable Blogs:3 Foolproof Ways To Motivate Your Team: 3 Areas to Focus on as a Leader7 Benefits of Being Courageous4 Ways You're Demotivating Your Team: And What You Can Do About Each One10 Ways to Encourage People: How to Break The Invalidation TendencyHow to Make Good Decisions: 14 Tools for Making Tough Life Choices00:00 "Finding Balance in Life"03:33 Struggling with Balance06:18 "Adding Purpose to Your Life"12:02 "Rigid Thinking and Life Balance"14:29 "You Don't Have to Worry"16:57 Tornado Facts and Clarity19:07 Embracing Life's Shades of Gray22:32 "Set Goals, Find Focus"25:45 "Structuring Life for Balance"28:47 "Lifelong Commitment to Scheduling"32:27 "Decide Your Legacy Today"Like, subscribe, and share. Leave us a review and tell us one action you'll take for better balance today! Be sure to check out Escape Artists Travel and tell them Decide Your Legacy sent you!

In this episode of Fishing Without Bait, Jim Ellermeyer guides listeners through one of the most transformative practices in mindfulness and recovery: letting go. Whether it's old fears, expectations, resentments, or the emotional weight we've carried for years, Jim explains how release is not weakness—it's liberation. Through grounded insight, 12-step philosophy, and real-world examples, Jim explores: • Why letting go feels so difficult • How control and fear keep us stuck • The connection between surrender and mindfulness • How to recognize what you're still carrying • Practical ways to soften your grip and reclaim peace This episode invites you to step out of old patterns and into a more open, honest, intentional life. If you're ready to grow, breathe, and move forward—this conversation is for you.

Babe, you know these moments where you can't help but wonder…“Do I need to do more right now – or am I supposed to just chill the f*ck out and blindly trust?” Yeah. That question used to drive me insane. Because as ambitious women, we are wired to MOVE. We're so used to strategizing, planning, taking control – that the concept of “surrender” feels like giving up, or even worse, failure. But here's the truth: knowing when to take action and when to let go is literally the difference between burnout and overflow. It's the skill that led me from over-functioning to thriving in every aspect of life. In this solo episode, I'm guiding you through how to tell the difference so you can stop second guessing yourself and start moving in harmony with your highest self. We're diving deep into all things energetics and the energetic dance you need to learn to balance both masculine and feminine energies, how I apply my teachings to my own life, how to know when to take action versus when it's time to surrender and let go, how to know which energy you're currently or predominantly in, and so much more! So babe, grab your cacao or matcha and a journal, because you're going to want to take notes and implement these practices into your daily life! ------Wanna take things wayyyyyy deeper and upgrade your life in 2026, exponentially?CLAIM YOUR SPOT TO WORK WITH ME IN A PRIVATE SETTING HERE!Ready to become The Magnetic Woman? CLAIM YOUR SPOT IN MY BRAND NEW MASTERMIND HERE! ------In this episode, I discuss: 01:35 - Intro - how to tell when to make shit happen & when it's time to lean back06:10 - My life behind the scenes lately + one of my biggest manifestations this year11:30 - A peek into a recent experience so you can see how I apply my teachings to my own life27:30 - The energetic dance you need to learn that balances masculine and feminine energies32:05 - How to know when it's time to take action and make shit happen35:40 - How to know when it's time to surrender, trust, lean back and let go 39:05 - A simple way to know which energy you're currently in42:25 - What it looks like once you've mastered both energies Connect with Laura: Laura's Website: https://www.lauraherde.com/Laura's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laura.herde/Laura's 1-1 Coaching: https://www.lauraherde.com/application-1-1Laura's Coaching Certification Course: https://www.instagram.com/embodiedcoachacademy/More free resources for you:*FREE* HEAL YOUR FEMININE ENERGY GUIDE⁠*FREE* MASTERCLASS: THE ART OF ATTRACTION (MEN & MONEY)>> EMAIL ME TO CONNECT/ ASK QUESTIONS: hello@lauraherde.com>> FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM: @laura.herde Feel free to share this episode with your bestie, and tag us on IG when you listen so we can repost you!Make sure to be subscribed to UNFUCK YOUR LIFE, we publish episodes every single Tuesday.Thank you so much for tuning in, love xx

What does it truly mean to be consecrated before a major breakthrough? The Israelites stood at the edge of the Jordan River for 40 years, waiting for this very moment. They were given specific instructions: consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow Adonai will do amazing things. This in-depth study of Joshua 3-5 explores the profound act of faith required to step into the flooding river before the waters parted. We'll examine why God tests us, often bringing us back to the same challenges we failed before. Are we, like them, waiting on the verge of our own promised land, held back only by a lack of faith? This message unpacks the deep connection between true consecration and witnessing God's power. Share this message with someone who needs encouragement to 'step into the water' in faith! #Joshua #JordanRiver #MessianicJudaism #ShalomAdventure

Tori removal may not be the most glamorous procedure, but it's one that demands skill, patience, and careful preparation. In this episode of Everyday Oral Surgery, host Dr. Grant Stucki welcomes Dr. Richard Akin, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Baton Rouge, to explore the nuances of managing these challenging cases. Dr. Akin reflects on lessons learned from early practice with his father, the unique anatomy and patient factors that complicate these cases, and the importance of knowing when removal is truly indicated. He shares practical techniques for both maxillary and mandibular tori, from flap design to instrument choice. Dr. Akin also discusses the realities of insurance coverage and billing, and how reimbursement rarely reflects the complexity of the work. Along the way, he emphasizes patient communication, setting realistic expectations for recovery, and taking the time needed to avoid complications. Tune in to hear insights that can help you refine your approach and set patients up for better outcomes!Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to Dr. Richard Akin, an OMS in Baton Rouge.Dr. Akin's early training with his father and transition into solo practice.Why tori removal remains a core responsibility of oral surgeons.Indications for removal, from hygiene challenges to painful ulcers.Preparing patients for recovery and setting realistic expectations.Step-by-step techniques for removing maxillary and mandibular tori.Managing thin tissue, closure difficulties, and post-op care.Instrument choices that make tori removal safer and more efficient.Strategies to minimize tearing and ensure proper healing.Recognizing rare complications such as flap necrosis.Why suturing technique and flap care are critical to healing.Dr. Akin's range of patient stories, from food entrapment to denture challenges.Typical healing timelines and patient resilience after surgery.Insurance coverage and billing realities for tori removal cases.Dr. Akin's favorite books, hobbies, and daily practices.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Dr. Richard Akin — https://www.drakin.com/ Dr. Richard Akin on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-akin-644aa932/Dr. Richard Akin email — rick@drakin.com Dr. Richard Akin Powerpoint — 7 Goldman-Fox Knife — https://www.hufriedygroup.com/en/dental-knives/7-goldman-fox-knife1/2 Orban DE Knife, EverEdge™ — https://www.hufriedygroup.com/en/dental-knives/1-2-orban-periodontal-knife-0Forceps to extract tooth number five — Hearts in Atlantis — https://www.amazon.com/Hearts-in-Atlantis-Stephen-King-audiobook/dp/B0000547DGSurrender — https://www.amazon.com/Surrender-40-Songs-One-Story/dp/B09ZK1XJ4XHidden Potential — https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Potential-Science-Achieving-Greater/dp/0593653149The Overstory — https://www.amazon.com/Overstory-Novel-Richard-Powers/dp/039335668XBreaking Bad — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0903747/Better Call Saul —

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Saturn returns, spiritual awakening, divine timing, and trusting the universe — in this episode, I sit down with Lindsey Simcik of the Almost 30 Podcast to talk about navigating change, growth, and alignment.This conversation with Lindsey dives deep into the lessons that come with your Saturn return — from career pivots and spiritual awakening to seasons of singleness and surrendering to divine timing. We explore what it means to trust the Universe when life doesn't go according to plan, how to navigate the “in-between” seasons, and the power of rewriting your money story. Lindsey shares wisdom from her upcoming book about Saturn returns, the death-and-rebirth cycles of life, and how to stay anchored in trust while creating a life aligned with your soul.TIMESTAMPS00:00 intro about Lindsey Simcik of Almost 30 Podcast04:31 Writing the Almost 30 book05:38 What is a Saturn return?08:13 Lindsey's Saturn return themes and lessons she learned12:05 Season of singleness19:23 Alignment Academy the Membership20:37 How do we trust the Universe when we want to meet our person, have kids and are worried about the timeline?32:18 How do you choose what to share on your podcast and what do you keep private?38:54 Inner Child Block Quiz39:35 How do you navigate deaths & rebirths?45:02 Are you in a season of the “in-between”?49:49 What is your favorite chapter in your book?

How do we live out the Christian life as Jesus intended? In this four-part series on the command to receive God's power, we explore Jesus' call to “tarry… until ye be endued with power from on high” (Luke 24:49). We begin by uncovering our absolute need for the Holy Spirit—not only to begin the Christian life, but to sustain and empower it every day. Through rich Scripture, personal stories, and practical application, we examine what it means to walk in the Spirit, how to abide in His power, what grieves or quenches Him, and the vital ministries He performs in our lives. From salvation to sanctification, from surrender to fruitfulness, this series invites us to live not in our own strength, but in the power of Christ dwelling in us. When we truly depend on Him, He transforms our lives, equips our witness, and glorifies Himself through us.Are we daily depending on the Spirit of God, or are we still trying to live the Christian life in our own strength? Have we fully surrendered every area of our heart to the Lord, letting Him fill us completely?In this rich and practical reflection on Luke 24:49, we come face to face with the essential truth that the Christian life cannot be lived apart from the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus' command to “tarry… until ye be endued with power from on high” invites us to a life of continual dependence, surrender, and intimacy with God. Receiving His power begins at salvation—when we are born of the Spirit—but it continues as a daily walk of being filled, sanctified, and led by Him. The Holy Spirit, both Holy and wholly consuming, moves into every area of our lives, cleansing, empowering, and conforming us into the likeness of Christ. We cannot overcome sin, bear fruit, or fulfill God's commands by striving in our own ability; instead, we yield to His presence, abide in His Word, and walk in surrendered obedience. As we empty ourselves of self-sufficiency and acknowledge our deep need, the rivers of His Spirit rush in—bringing life, power, and fruitfulness. Christ is not just our example—He is our life. And when we truly grasp that He does the work in and through us, we find freedom, joy, and strength to walk out the life He's called us to live. Let us stay in that place of dependence and surrender, continually receiving His power, that we may be vessels through which Christ is glorified.

The story of Jacob's sons is messy, painful, redemptive, and beautiful. It's the story of betrayal and forgiveness, grief and healing, famine and provision. But more than that, it's the story of how God takes a broken family and forms a people through whom He will bless the whole world. From the very beginning, God's heart has been to include the outsider and heal what's been fractured. This series invites us into that story—not just to watch it unfold, but to find ourselves in it. Because God is still using crooked sticks to draw straight lines—and to build His family today.

Join Bay City Director Tamara Schlatter and Senior Pastor Josh Pardee as they explore the message from week 5 of our current series titled Crooked Sticks.  

Surrender - Part 2Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warrior woman, this one is a little messy. A little raw. A little “thinking on the mic.” I've been sitting with a really big decision for almost 10 months — circling it, questioning myself, wondering if my intuition was blocked, asking whether clarity is a mindset thing, a nervous system thing, or an identity thing. For months, I didn't have the answer. And honestly… I thought something was wrong with me. But what I've learned is this: Nothing was wrong with me — I just wasn't ready. My nervous system wasn't ready. My life wasn't ready. I wasn't her yet In this EP, I take you inside that whole internal process — the questions, the frustration, the anger, the capacity-building, the surrender (the real kind, not the Instagram kind), and how clarity finally came… not because I manifested it, but because my bod could finally hold it. Girl...If you're in the in-between — if you're circling a big decision, if you're questioning yourself, if you feel like you “should” know the answer but don't — this EP is for you darling. Key Takeaways Not knowing doesn't mean you're broken — it means your future self isn't fully formed yet. You might not have the identity, energy, or physiological capacity to hold the decision… yet. Clarity isn't just mindset. Your nervous system has to feel safe enough to let the answer land. Big decisions require big identity shifts — and those take time. Some decisions need months of circling, imagining, grieving, and preparing. You can be a slow decision-maker and a fast executor. Once you decide? The plan flows. The strategy becomes obvious. The action is easy. Intuition might not be “woo.” It might simply be the brain predicting and the body responding: “Yes, I can hold that,” or “No, not yet.” Surrender is not passive. It's letting go of urgency while actively building capacity — physically, emotionally, and structurally. Becoming is slow. It's identity-level. It doesn't happen on your timeline. And that's okay. Powerful Quotes “Not knowing doesn't mean you're behind — it means your future self isn't ready yet.” “Maybe intuition isn't magic. Maybe it's just perception plus regulation.” “I'm a slow decision-maker, but a fast executor. Once I know… I move.” “Surrender isn't trusting the universe — it's letting go of urgency while you build the capacity to hold something big.” “Sometimes your nervous system isn't saying no… it's saying not yet.” In this deeply personal solo episode of The Warrior School Podcast, Amy unpacks a 10-month season of “not knowing” and what it taught her about intuition, nervous system capacity, identity, and big life decisions. This episode is for the woman who is circling a decision, questioning her intuition, or feeling stuck in the in-between. You'll learn why clarity often takes longer than you think, how the nervous system influences decision-making, the difference between intuition and perception, and how to build the capacity to hold big identity-level changes. If you're in a season of uncertainty, this episode will help you feel seen, grounded, and supported. THIS EPISODE IS FOR: Women who are circling a big decision and don't have the answer yet Anyone who feels stuck in the in-between and is wondering if something's “wrong” with them High-achieving women who want to build the physical and emotional capacity to hold a bigger life Leaders, creators, coaches — the women who are becoming someone new, even if it's slow, even if it's messy

What would it look like for you to surrender your life to Jesus today?

Each week you'll hear an honest, grace-filled and encouraging message. By openly sharing from the Word and real life examples of the Father's love, you'll know that God is on your side and there is an entire community of people at our church that is cheering you on, praying for you, and standing with you in life. We meet every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at 10925 Trail Haven Road in Rogers.Our Kid's Ministry is open for ages Birth-Grade 4.We also offer a Youth service every Wednesday night at 7 p.m. For more information, visit us at lwcc.org/northwest.To give a financial gift, simply text GIVE to 763.325.1010.Support the show

November 16th, 2025 | Seek ONE | Luke 18:18-30In this special Commitment Sunday message, Pastor Matt Darby challenges us with a simple but life-altering question: What is the one thing driving everything in your life—and is it Jesus? As our church continues the Seek 1 journey, this sermon invites every listener into a deeper place of surrender, trust, and freedom.Drawing from Luke 18 and Jesus' encounter with the rich young ruler, Pastor Matt exposes how easy it is to let good things become ultimate things—especially in the area of finances. Nothing grips the human heart quite like money, and nothing tests our trust quite like surrendering it. But Jesus isn't after our money; He's after our hearts. And where our treasure is, our hearts inevitably follow.In this message, you'll discover:• Jesus calls us to full surrender—not partial obedience.Like the rich young ruler, we can be moral, faithful, and religious, yet still hold back the “one thing” that truly owns us. Jesus wants access to every room of our lives.• Surrender is the path to spiritual freedom.Pastor Matt unpacks the powerful imagery of the camel and the needle, showing that self-sufficiency can trap us, while surrender to Jesus sets us free from worry, control, and divided loyalty.• What Jesus asks us to release, He replaces with something far greater.When we trust Him with what we think we can't live without—especially our finances—we discover that obedience is not loss but exchange. Jesus promises blessing “in this time and in the age to come.”As Pastor Matt leads the church into a moment of courageous obedience, he reminds us: today isn't about the church getting your money—it's about your heart getting free. The rich young ruler walked away sad because he couldn't trust Jesus with his treasure. But we are invited to walk forward in joy as we surrender our own.This message will encourage, challenge, and stretch anyone who desires to make Jesus truly The One Thing That Drives Everything.Do you know JESUS? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbgilmer.org/do-you-know-jesus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Need PRAYER? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbgilmer.org/pray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support through GIVING: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbbctx.org/giving⁠

In this message, Wendy Hagen discusses the concept of surrender through the lens of biblical stories, including the first disciples and the rich young ruler. By examining their choices and the outcomes, she illustrates how true abundance and fulfillment are found in letting go of what we hold dear and trusting in Jesus. This message encourages us to reflect on our own lives and consider what we might need to release to embrace the abundant life promised in Christ.

Those being baptized today have made third decisions when it comes to following Jesus.  They have DECIDED to BELIEVE, SURRENDER and GROW.  We celebrate with those today who have decided to follow Jesus, and there is no turning back.

Message by Chris Brown on November 15, 2025. It is easy to get disappointed or angry with God when He seems not to care or doesn't answer us the way we want. When we find ourselves in that place, the only options seem to be to draw closer to an unloving God or turn our backs on Him. Today's teaching from Jesus shows us how we were on the wrong page with God to begin with, and how to resolve that in a way that will always work out for our benefit. Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/WhCTs08COvM - Live Notes available at https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/38370/note-250653.html

In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef calls us to holy devotion of Christ, our righteousness.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon series Got Freedom?: LISTEN NOW

After 10 monthly No Jokes releases, Farley feels creatively bankrupt! So he's not bothering with the last 2 months. CLICK HERE FOR THE PLAYLIST WITH THE BEST 13 SONGS FROM THIS PROJECT Text Matt to tell him how great these songs are: 603-644-0048 If you don't show your appreciation, he'll put these songs on vinyl, and then chastise you for not purchasing it!!!!

Send us a textWhat if obedience in marriage isn't about control, but about love that aims at the common good? We dig into the heart of a Catholic marriage through the living model of Christ and the Church—where respect means honoring dignity, headship means spiritual responsibility, and submission looks like strength poured out in service. The conversation gets real about how cultural baggage and family patterns confuse these ideas, and how grace in the sacrament empowers two people to move from me-versus-you into an honest, shared pursuit of holiness.We unpack the daily work of mercy and justice—holding space for wounds without letting them harden into excuses. You'll hear practical ways to communicate without escalating, to pause when emotions surge, and to replace accusation with clarity and care. We also talk about intimacy as the courage to be seen and received, how fear of rejection sabotages closeness, and why small habits—journaling, gratitude, daily examen, and simple prayer—retrain the heart to love well.If trust has been damaged, we point to the shoreline scene of Christ and Peter: no shaming, just a sober question and an invitation to start again. That same grace can rebuild a home, brick by honest brick. We close with reflection prompts you can take to prayer: what you're thankful for, where you hope to grow, and which hard topics deserve a gentle, patient return.If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs hope, and leave a review so more couples can find tools for covenant love. Your voice helps others choose healing over transaction and communion over keeping score.Click here to support the Carmelite Friars! Have something you'd love to hear Fr. Stephen and John talk about? Email us at myfriendthefriar@gmail.com or click here!

If you turned down the noise and quieted all distractions for just a moment…what would rise to the surface? What would your soul call out for?If this season has felt chaotic, you're not alone. This solo episode with Jessica is a much-needed moment of reflection, and a reminder that the magic within you is still very much alive. Your purpose wants to be illuminated this season, and the universe is speeding up to connect you to your authentic self faster. It's inviting you to shed your limiting beliefs, make that career leap, or reflect on the relationship you're staying small in to prioritize what truly feeds your soul. So take this moment to slow down, release control, and get curious on the roadmap being laid out in front of you. Whether it's leaning into a moment with your children or nourishing your inner child's need to sing, paint, or move, it's time to start taking steps toward what lights you up and feels uniquely you.If you're craving deeper purpose and clarity in your life, navigating a testy period, or simply being called to a slower pace, this episode is your reminder that your authenticity is your north star. It's not about getting it “right” or being perfect—it's about connecting to your magic and becoming who you came here to be. Find the complete show notes here -> https://tobemagnetic.com/expanded-podcast Resources: Big End of Year SALE - 30% off with code MAGNETISM30The Pathway Annual Subscription HereThe Pathway Monthly Subscription Here Join our membership to access the TBM Book club, Money Challenge & NEW End of Year Challenge (launching Dec 1st)The Pathway Membership gives you unlimited access to all of our manifestation workshops—including How to Manifest, Unblocking Your Inner Child, Shadow, Love, Money, Rock Bottoms, Ruts, and Energetic Updates —plus 70+ self-hypnosis tracks designed to unlock your full potential.LEARN MORE HERE Get the latest from TBMJoin us at the How To Manifest Book Tour - AUSTIN 11/15 • LA 12/6 (Early Bird Discount available) Join our HTM Book Club! Walk step by step through the TBM Manifestation Process with Lacy and Jessica as we read HOW TO MANIFEST by Lacy Phillips Join the Pathway now - NEW End of Year Challenge launching Dec 1st! Use code EXPANDED for 20% off first month. New to TBM? Free Offerings to Get You StartedLearn the Process! Expanded Podcast - How to Manifest Anything You Desire Get Expanded! The Motivation - Testimonial LibraryReady to find out what's holding you back? Try our Free Clarity Exercise Be an EXPANDER! Share Your Manifestation StorySubmit to Be a Process GuestWhat did you manifest during the Money Challenge? Share a voice note of your question, block, or Process to be featured in an episode! This Episode is brought to you by: Bon Charge - 25% off through 31st December 2025Head to boncharge.com and your 25% off code will be automatically added to your order. Red Light Neck and Chest Mask Osea - 10% off with MAGNETIC10Undaria Algae™ Body OilUndaria Algae™ Body ButterDream Night CreamHoliday Sets Seed - Use MAGNETIC20 at checkout for 20% off your first month@seed's DS-01® Daily Synbiotic In this episode we talk about:The energetic portal we are in and why it's a catalyst for realignmentHow to know if you're in distraction mode—and the invitation to shiftWhat to do when old wounds and themes resurfaceRedefining “purpose” as the expression of your unique energy, not a job titleCreating micro-moments of intentionality in a busy seasonThe deeper layers of surrender: letting go of how it should lookThe power of resistance tests and what they're revealing about your growthShifting out of survival mode to co-create from joy and fulfillmentThe return of core wounds as a sign of up-leveling, not regressionThe connection between childhood programming and current testsHow self-sourcing safety unlocks more expression and magnetismWhy this moment is the perfect time to reclaim your authentic essence Mentioned In the Episode: Ep. 380 - Taking a Leap of Faith and Learning Surrender: The Process with Jenna ZoeExpanded x Ep. 318 -  Speeding up Your Manifestations in the New Paradigm with Jenna ZoeExpanded x Ep. 275 - The Science & Spirituality of Manifestation with Dr. TaraExpanded x Ep. 99: Dr. Tara Swart on Neuroplasticity and ManifestationJoin our HTM Book Club! Walk step by step through the TBM Manifestation Process with Lacy and Jessica as we read HOW TO MANIFEST by Lacy Phillips Order HOW TO MANIFEST by Lacy Phillips (with exercises by Jessica Gill) Find our Money Challenge plus all our workshops and all workshops mentioned inside our Pathway Membership! (Including the Dream Life DI, Abundant Life DI, and Purpose & Soul's Essence DI) Join us at the How To Manifest Book Tour!AUSTIN LA Limited VIP & Early Bird Discount available HOW TO MANIFEST by Lacy Phillips (with exercises by Jessica Gill) Coming October 21st!Pre-Order NOW The Expanded Podcast, from To Be Magnetic™ (TBM), is the leading manifestation podcast rooted in neuroscience, psychology, and energetics. Hosted by TBM's Chief Content Officer Jessica Gill, with monthly appearances from founder Lacy Phillips, Expanded is where science and the mystical meet to help you manifest in the most grounded, practical, and life-changing way.At TBM, we've redefined manifestation through Neural Manifestation™—our proven, science-backed method developed with neuroscientist Dr. Tara Swart. This process helps you reprogram limiting beliefs at the subconscious level so you can create the life most aligned with your authenticity.Each week, we take you inside the TBM practice to help you expand your subconscious to believe what you desire is possible. Through expert interviews, thought leader conversations, TBM teachings, and real member success stories, you'll learn how to: – Rewire your subconscious mind and step into your worth – Heal your inner child and integrate shadow work – Set boundaries, strengthen intuition, and reclaim self-worth – Manifest relationships, careers, abundance, and experiences that align with your true selfWith over than 40 million downloads and a global community in over 100 countries, Expanded has become the gold standard in manifestation content. Think of it as your weekly practice for expanding your mind, believing what you want is possible, and manifesting the life you're meant to live.Past guests include leading voices such as Mel Robbins, Lewis Howes, Jenna Zoe, Martha Beck, Dr. Joe Dispenza, Dr. Gabor Maté, Mark Groves, and Brianna Wiest. Where To Find Us!@tobemagnetic (IG)@LacyannephillipsLacy Launched a Substack! - By Candlelight - Join Here@Jessicaashleygill@tobemagnetic (youtube)@expandedpodcast

In this thought-provoking episode, Tony and Jesse delve into Jesus's twin parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price from Matthew 13:44-46. They explore the profound economic metaphor Jesus uses to illustrate the incomparable value of the Kingdom of Heaven. Through careful examination of both parables, they discuss what it means to "count the cost" of following Christ while simultaneously recognizing that no earthly sacrifice can compare to the infinite worth of gaining Christ. The conversation moves between practical application—considering how believers assess value in their spiritual lives—and deeper theological reflections on Christ's perfect sacrifice that makes our entrance into the Kingdom possible in the first place. Key Takeaways The Kingdom of Heaven has such surpassing value that sacrificing everything to obtain it is considered a joyful exchange, not a loss. Both parables show different paths to discovering the Kingdom (unexpected finding vs. intentional seeking), but identical responses: selling everything to obtain the treasure. The parables are not primarily commanding material poverty, but rather illustrating the "sold-outness" required in pursuing the Kingdom of God. Counting the cost of discipleship is not only permissible but necessary to fully appreciate the value of what we gain in Christ. The ultimate treasure we receive in salvation is not merely benefits like eternal life, but God Himself—union with Christ and fellowship with the Trinity. Christ Himself is the one who ultimately fulfills these parables perfectly, giving everything to purchase us as His treasure. The irresistible draw of the Kingdom illustrates how God's grace works in the heart of believers, compelling joyful surrender. Exploring the Incomparable Value of the Kingdom The economic metaphor Jesus employs in these parables is striking—both the hidden treasure and the pearl are deemed so valuable that the discoverers "sell all they have" to obtain them. As Tony and Jesse point out, this transaction reveals something profound about how we should view the Kingdom of Heaven. It's not simply that the Kingdom is valuable; it's that its value so far exceeds anything else we possess that the comparison becomes almost absurd. As Tony notes, "For sure the worth of the kingdom of heaven surpasses anything we could imagine... there's no measure that is satisfying, there's no measure that can actually show us how worthwhile it is." This perspective transforms how we understand sacrifice in the Christian life. When opportunities or comforts are foregone because of our faith, we're not simply losing something—we're experiencing the reality that we've chosen something infinitely more valuable. The parables teach us to view these moments not with regret but with a clearer vision of the treasure we've received in Christ. The Ultimate Prize: God Himself Perhaps the most powerful insight from the discussion is the realization that the ultimate treasure of salvation is not the benefits we receive, but God Himself. As Tony eloquently states: "All of those things are attending gifts. But what we get in salvation ultimately is we get God... we get union with God, we get fellowship with Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit. We get swept up into the life of the Trinity... We gain the relationship that the son has with the father by nature. We gain that by grace and nothing can compare to that." This perspective reshapes how we understand the value proposition of the gospel. It's not merely that we receive eternal life, freedom from suffering, or other benefits—though these are real. The pearl of great price is relationship with God Himself. This helps explain why both men in the parables respond with such dramatic, all-encompassing sacrifice. When we truly grasp what's being offered, nothing seems too great a price to pay. Memorable Quotes "What we get in salvation ultimately is we get God. We get union with God, we get fellowship with Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit. We get swept up into the life of the Trinity... We gain the relationship that the son has with the father by nature. We gain that by grace and nothing can compare to that." — Tony Arsenal "I often say in my own line of work, that cost only matters in the absence of value... it's like at the end of days when we think about the worthiness of our God, that there's no one like him, that he's unequal, that he has no rival, that the gospel is the sweetest message that we're rescued literally from the pit. We'll just say no matter what the cost of us personally, great or small, totally worth it." — Jesse Schwamb Full Transcript [00:00:08] Tony Arsenal: All of those things are attending gifts. But what we get in salvation ultimately is we get God we get union with God, we get fellowship with Jesus Christ in the, the power of the Holy Spirit. We, we get swept up into the life of the, the God of the universe. Like the life of the Trinity indwells us. And we, we become a part of that. We get swept up into that. We gain the relationship that the son has with the father by nature. We gain that by grace and nothing can compare to that. [00:00:47] Jesse Schwamb: Welcome to episode 469 of The Reformed Brotherhood. I'm Jesse. [00:00:54] Tony Arsenal: And I'm Tony. And this is the podcast with ears to hear. Hey brother. [00:00:59] Jesse Schwamb: Hey brother. Discussing the Value of the Kingdom of Heaven [00:01:00] Jesse Schwamb: Speaking of ears to hear, we're back at it again with a whole new, or let's say different parable from our Lord and Savior Jesus. And we've been talking about how really these parables give us this view of the face of heaven through these earthly glasses. And I am pretty interested in our conversation about what's coming up because sometimes we don't like to put too fine a points to our, our point of question to our faith. And in this case, we're gonna get to ask the question, what is it all worth, this kingdom of heaven, this rule and reign of Christ? What is it all about? Who are the beneficiaries of it? And what is it all actually worth? There's a little bit of economics in this, so we're gonna get there. And while we talk and do a little affirming or denying, you should just go ahead write to just skip, go. Do not collect $200 or maybe. Pass, go and collect $200. I dunno. But just go to Matthew chapter 13 and hang out there for just a second. Affirmations and Denials [00:01:58] Jesse Schwamb: But first, I'm always curious to know whenever we talk, are you gonna affirm with something or are you gonna die against something? We've been on a string of lots of affirmations, but I'd like to think that's just because we're fun, loving, optimistic people. But there was a day where we had to do both. And now that I only have to choose one, I do find myself gravitating almost naturally toward the affirming width. But I leave it to you, Tony, are you affirming with or denying against? [00:02:22] Tony Arsenal: I, unfortunately am denying tonight. Technical Issues with Apple Podcasts [00:02:25] Tony Arsenal: So you and I already talked about it a little bit, but uh, I'm denying Apple Podcast Connect. Oh yes. So, uh, I. Obviously, like if you're affected by this, you're not hearing the episode 'cause it's not updating for you. But, uh, if you happen to be using Apple to listen to the podcast and for some reason you're listening somewhere else, maybe you realize that the podcast has not been updating for several weeks. And so you went to a different podcast catcher. Um, apple just decided for some reason that none of our feeds were gonna update. No good reason. So I've got a ticket out to Apple and hopefully we'll get it fixed. Uh, if you do know someone who listens to the show and they use Apple, please tell them to subscribe to something else or to, uh, go to the website. You can get all of the, all of the episodes on our website. You could go to Spotify, you could do something like, uh, overcast or PocketCasts. Um, it really is just Apple. It's, it's the actual account that we use to, uh, to access. Apple's Directory is not pulling new episodes and it's not pulling new episodes on another show that I run as well. So, uh, it's not just this show, it's not our RSS feed. These things happen. It'll, you know, you'll get four or five episodes all at one time. When it, when it corrects itself, usually they're pretty quick. I put in a ticket like late on Friday afternoon, so I didn't expect them to get to it on, uh, Saturday or Sunday. So hopefully by the time you're hearing this, uh, it's resolved. I would hope so, because that means it would be about a week from today. Um, so hopefully they'll have a resolve. But yeah, it's just th thorns and thistles. This is our own, our own, uh, manifestation of the curse here in this little labor that we do. It's, it's thorns and thistles right now, but no big deal. Just, uh, catch up when you can. And, uh, yeah, so denying Apple Podcasts now, really, it's, it's a great service and this is a, a little glitch. It's, it's just a little frustrating. [00:04:20] Jesse Schwamb: The sweat of our brow. Yes. Here it is. We're just toiling over getting Apple to please release our episodes. Well, it'll be your happy day if you use Apple Podcasts and then get a bunch of them all at once. That's fantastic. It's like the gift that is over in abundance. Supporting The Reformed Brotherhood [00:04:36] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, it is a good reminder that you just said, Tony, that everybody should go, just take some time. Head on over to our form brotherhood.com. You can find all the other 400 some odd episodes living over there. And while you're over there and you're perusing or searching by topic to see what we've talked about before, you're probably gonna think to yourself, this is so incredible. How is this compendium, this omnibus of all these episodes just hanging out here free of cost? And I'm so glad you're thinking about that because there are so many lovely brothers and sisters who have decided just to give a little bit to make sure that all that stuff gets hosted for free for you Yeah. And for us, so that anybody can go and explore it and find content that we hope will be edifying. So if that's something you're interested in, maybe you've been listening for a while and thought, you know what? I would like to give a little bit one time or reoccurring, we would love to, for you to join us in that mission. You can go to patreon.com/reform brotherhood, and there's all the information for you to give if that's something that you feel you would like to do, and we would be grateful for you to do it. [00:05:32] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. We, we have a group of people who support the show. They make it possible for your, uh, your ear holes to be filled with our voices. And, uh, but again, you know, the costs are going up all around and, and we would, uh, certainly love to have people partner with us. Um, we've committed to making show that the, making sure that the show is free and available. Um, it's never our intention to put anything behind a paywall or to, to barrier and in that way, but we can only do that if there's people who are supporting the show and making, making sure that we've got the funding that we need to, to keep going. So, thank you to everybody who gives, thank you to anyone who's considering it, uh, and thanking anybody who decides to, uh, jump on board with that. [00:06:11] Jesse Schwamb: Right on. We're appreciative who we really are. [00:06:13] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. So Jesse, what are you affirming or denying today? Exploring Open Webcam DB [00:06:16] Jesse Schwamb: Uh, this is what I've kind of done before, but I think I've found a new place for it. I just am continually impressed and fall in love with how great and big and lovely God's world is. So I love these types of sites that give you insight into this great big world, even if it's in unexpected places or maybe in strange places. So I'm affirming with a website called Open webcam db.com. Open webcam db.com. And it's exactly like what it sounds like. It's a database that has something like 2000 live cameras streaming daily from over 50 countries, all searchable by a category. So you can find natural landscapes, airports, construction sites, and one of my recent favorites, honestly, and this is. It's so strange, but kind of awesome is this warehouse, it's called Chinese Robotic Warehouse Buzz, and it's just robots moving pallets around or like stacks of all of these items. It's mesmerizing. But I would encourage you go to open webcam db.com, search for like your stage or your country. You'll find so many amazing things. So I've sat and just watched, you know, between tasks or when you know you just need a break or you're just curious about the world. Like I look, I watched the Krakow Maine Market Square quite a bit because it's. Beautiful and brilliant, and to think about the people moving to and fro and what they're doing, what their lives are like. There's some great scenes from San Francisco Bay. There is a bird feeder in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania that I often watch. So of course, like go out as we've said, and live and breathe and be in your own communities. And as well, if you're looking at scratch that itch of just seeing all these different places, all the different things that are happening in God's created world, I can firmly and unreservedly recommend open webcam db.com for that. [00:07:58] Tony Arsenal: Nice, nice, uh, little known fact at one point, Dartmouth Hitchcock, which is the hospital that I worked for, had to block a penguin cam, uh, because it was causing such a productivity drain combined with an actual measurable decrease in internet bandwidth at the hospital. 'cause so many people were watching this little penguin cam at some zoo in Boston. I think it probably was. Yeah, I, I love this kind of stuff. I think this kind of stuff is great. Uh, I use, uh, Dartmouth College has a, like a live one that I use all the time, especially when we're trying to figure out what the weather's gonna do. You can see it on the camera. Uh, we, we often will, you know, see, especially as we get closer to the season when we're talking about traveling to the beach and whatnot, uh, often look at the ocean grove. Oh, that's right. Uh, pier cam. So yeah, check it out. Uh, sounds like a fun time. Do not share it with too many of your friends at work. Or it may crash the network and Yeah. But [00:08:53] Jesse Schwamb: yeah, for [00:08:54] Tony Arsenal: sure. That was a funny email that they had to send out. I remember that [00:08:57] Jesse Schwamb: for sure. Use, use the penguin cam responsibly. I just did a quick search. There are four different penguin cams. Uh, three of them are in the United States, one is in New Zealand, and you better believe I'm gonna be checking those bad boys out. Yes. I didn't even think about. The penguin feature here and penguins are an amazing animal. Like we could stop right now and just shift our topic to penguins if you want to. [00:09:16] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. ' [00:09:16] Jesse Schwamb: cause there's so much there. And the spiritual truths are so broad and deep, but I just think penguins are kind of undervalued. Birds. Everybody should go check them out. [00:09:26] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. They're, they're pretty cool. [00:09:28] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. Um, I'm like, I will watch any Penguin documentary and just be astounded by Penguin. Like, whether they're Emperor Penguins or South African Penguin, wherever. I just think they're phenomenal and hilarious and seem to be living the dream. And he doesn't want a little bit of that. [00:09:46] Tony Arsenal: You just gotta get Morgan Freeman to do the voiceover in any documentary or, or nature documentary is better with Morgan Freeman doing the voiceover. [00:09:55] Jesse Schwamb: Well, I all, this might be a deep cut real quick, but I just learned this, and I'm guessing some of our listening brothers and sisters probably already know this. Maybe you do too, Tony. So, Benedict Cumberbatch, do you know where I'm going with this? Yep, [00:10:06] Tony Arsenal: yep. Pen wing. [00:10:07] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. I didn't. I cannot say that word or stumbles over its pronunciation. He did some kind of big documentary in which Penguins played at least some part. Yeah. And they were in an interview. They were giving him such a hard time because they played his reading of it like within the same kind of five minutes. And his, the word just kept degenerating in his mouth every time he said it. So it became like almost undistinguishable from the actual word. And it's like initial pronunciation. It was so hilarious. Apparently it's a big joke on the internet and I just didn't know it. [00:10:38] Tony Arsenal: Especially for someone like Bent Cumberbatch who just is, uh, like he's a world-class voice actor. [00:10:44] Jesse Schwamb: Right. [00:10:45] Tony Arsenal: And like a super smart ude guy and he just can't say the word penguin and penguin. Yeah. [00:10:51] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. He said, you got everybody go look it up. 'cause it is super hilarious. And now it's kind of gotten stuck in my head. But um, again, this suddenly became like the All Penguin episode all of a sudden. [00:11:01] Tony Arsenal: I mean like, he can pronounce his own last name just fine, but the word penguin escapes him. I like to call 'em blueberry crumble bottom or whatever. Crumble bunch. [00:11:11] Jesse Schwamb: Uh, see that's the good stuff right there. That's what everybody we know. This is what you all tune in for. This is what you're missing when Apple Podcast doesn't send everything out on time. Yeah. You're welcome. [00:11:22] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. The Parable of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl [00:11:23] Tony Arsenal: Well, Jesse, why don't we, why don't we get into it? Because you know it, it's interesting. Let's [00:11:27] Jesse Schwamb: get into it. [00:11:28] Tony Arsenal: Well, it's interesting because when you, you know, you kind of, we, we sort of do the little lead to the episode and I, I suddenly realized that I think I've been interpreting this parable very differently than maybe you have or other people. Great. Do, uh, because I, I think I, I think I might have a different take on it. Let, let's do it. Yeah. So let's get into it. Uh, do you have the, the text in friend you wanna read? Uh, why don't we just do 44 all the way through 46? We'll do both parables in one reading. We'll come back and talk about it. [00:11:54] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. Sorry, everybody. So here's a two for one for you. Beginning in where we're in verse 44 of Matthew chapter 13. This is Jesus speaking. The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy, he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field again. The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it. Interpreting the Parables [00:12:22] Tony Arsenal: I think maybe this is the, like the beauty of parables, uh, when Christ doesn't give us a interpretation. I, I think we're, we're, we're not free to like make up whatever we want, but these kinds of teaching tools are useful because the fact that there can be multiple interpretations actually is, is probably intentional. [00:12:43] Jesse Schwamb: Right. [00:12:43] Tony Arsenal: So it's funny because I think when you intro the episode here, it sounds like you're going to the kingdom of Heaven being a treasure hidden in a field, being something that we should sell everything we have and go after. And when I read this, I read it as the kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure hidden a field. And the man who is Jesus goes and sells all that. He has. He gives all that he has and buys the field. So, and I, I think this is one of those ones where like. Probably both of those things are in play. Sure. But it's interesting 'cause I've never, I've never really read this and thought about myself as the person who buys the field. [00:13:19] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. Interesting. [00:13:20] Tony Arsenal: I've probably heard sermons or read devotionals where people have said that and it just never clicked. And it didn't register until just now. And you were, when you were, uh, introing the parable that maybe you are the, maybe your way of introing your, your interpretation. Maybe that's the dominant one. So I, I looked at a couple quick, um, commentaries while you were speaking and I didn't get a chance to do my commentary reading before the episode. It seems like I'm the weird one. So, but it's interesting, um, 'cause again, I think that's the, kind of the beauty of parables is that sometimes the, the, um. Ambiguity of what the possible meaning could be, probably plays into the, the, um, teaching technique itself. [00:13:58] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, I, I think that's fair. I totally can take and understand what your perspective is on this. What I find interesting is that these, we've got these two abutting each other, like the cheek to cheek parallel approach here, and in doing so, there seems to be like kind of an interesting comparison between the two. Actors in this. And I think we should get into that. Like why in one case Jesus is talking about a person who finds this in a field, which by the way, I think the, the thing that jumps out to me first about that person is this person doesn't actually own the field at first. Right. That the treasure is in. So that is interesting. I'm totally with you. But then the second one, so in the first one there's kinda almost like this sense, and I don't wanna like push this too far, but that this person who finds this treasure does so very unexpectedly, perhaps like he's even the hired hand and of course not the one who owns the field. [00:14:48] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. [00:14:49] Jesse Schwamb: And in the second case, we have somebody who almost is volitionally looking for this thing of great value, but finds the one thing above all the other things that they're used to looking for that clearly has the greatest and most. You know, essential worth and therefore the end is always the same in both of 'em. They give everything they have. They're willing for forsake all other things with great joy, recognizing the great value that's in front of them. I think there is a place to understand that as Christ acting in those ways. I think there's also interesting, again, this comparison between these two people. So I'm seeing this as we've got these varied beneficiaries of the kingdom. They both come to this place of the incomparable value of the kingdom, but then there's also like this expulsive power of the kingdom. All, all of that's, I think in there, and again, these are really, really, really brilliant, I think, because the more that you spend time meditating on these, the layers just kind of come and they fall away and you start to really consider, well, why again is Jesus using these two different characters? Why is he using this kinda different sense of things of, of worth what the people are actually after? I think all of it's in play. You're totally right. [00:15:54] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. The Cost and Value of the Kingdom of Heaven [00:15:55] Tony Arsenal: So I think, you know, when we think about the kingdom of heaven, when we think about these perils, we made this point last week, we shouldn't, um, we shouldn't restrict, we have to be careful not to restrict the comparison to just like the first noun that comes up, [00:16:08] Jesse Schwamb: right? [00:16:08] Tony Arsenal: So it's not just that the kingdom of heaven is like a treasure, it, it is like a treasure, but it's like a treasure that's hidden in a field. Yes. And it's not just like a treasure that's hidden in a field, it's a treasure that's hidden in a field which a man found and covered up. Right? So, so like we have to look at that whole sequence. And I think, I think, um, you know, obviously like the, the interpretation that we are the, we're the man who finds the kingdom of heaven and we, you know, we go and buy the field. Um, that, that obviously makes perfect sense now that I'm looking at a few different commentaries. It seems to be the predominant way that this gets interpreted. And we, we look at it and we say, what, well, what does this mean for like our Christian life? Like. What does it mean? Do we have to, do we have to give everything away? Do we have to sell everything we have? Is that the point of the parable? I think some people make that the point of the parable. Um, I'm not convinced that that actually is the point of the parable. Um, because it, you know, it, it, it just, there's lots in the scripture that, that, uh, doesn't seem to require that Christians automatically like, give away everything they have. Um, maybe that's your calling. Maybe it is something that God's calling you to do to sort of, um, divest yourself of your, your belongings, either to sort of fight materialism or greed or, or just because like you're gonna need to have that fluidity and liquidity to your assets 'cause you're gonna need to move around or whatever it is. But I don't think we look at this parable and have like a, like a, a command for a life of poverty or something like that. Right. Um, really this is more about the. Utter sold outness of the Christian to pursue and seek the kingdom of God. [00:17:48] Jesse Schwamb: Right? Right. [00:17:49] Tony Arsenal: And and I think that that's the same in both, even though the way that the person in the parables comes a, comes across the kingdom or they come across this, this thing of great value or thing of great price, that they find their response in both parables is the same. And to me, that that actually tells me that that's more the point of these parables. Um, or, or maybe we shouldn't even think of these as two parables, right? Some of the introductory language that we see in when we transition from one parable to another, we don't really see that here. Uh, and if, if we're gonna follow that, actually we would be going to the next parable would also kind of fall into this. But he says the kingdom of heaven is like a treasure. And then in 45 he says, again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. We're gonna run into something like this later on when we get to like the parable of the lost sheep and the parable of lost coins. Where there are these distinct parables, but they're kind of stacked on top of each other in order to make a specific point. All of the parables that are sort of in these parable stacks are making the same point. And so I think it's not so much about like, how do we find the Kingdom of Heaven or how do we come upon the kingdom of heaven? It's more about what do we do once we've come upon it? Once we've thrown it's, that's the point of the parable that we need to unpack. [00:19:03] Jesse Schwamb: That's right. And I would add to that, like who is it that is the beneficiary of this kingdom? We have two different, very different individuals, which I, again, I think, we'll, we'll talk a little bit about, but I'm totally with you. I, I think it's, it's easier, it's almost too narrow and too easy to say. Well, this is really just about like physical ma or about wealth. Like in some way the, what we're being taught here is that you have to get rid of everything of value in exchange for this. In some ways, that almost feels too transactional, doesn't it? As if like what, what we need to do is really buy the kingdom. We express our seriousness about this kingdom or the rule and reign of God by somehow just giving up everything that we own as if to prove that we're really worthy of receiving that kingdom that we prayed enough. Right. That we've done enough, even though that we're contrite enough. Yeah. And all that stands like in direct opposition to the mercy and grace, which God gives to us through his son by the power of the Holy Spirit to bring us into this kingdom. So we know it can't really be about that. And so that leads me back again to just like the lovely details here. And like you've already said in the first case, here's what really strikes me is. For probably most of us in the West, this idea of treasure is novel and maybe romantic. There's a adventure and an energy to it. Because we've all heard stories about this, whether it's like, I don't know, pirates of the Caribbean or the county Mount Cristo. Like there's something about treasure finding some kind of, or national treasure. Sorry, that just came to my mind. Like I couldn't go any further without mentioning Nick Cage. So you know, like there's something there that pulls us in that finding this thing almost unexpectedly in a hidden place of immense worth and value is, has a real draw to it. But I imagine that in Palestine being like a war torn region in Jesus' day, in the way people might store goods of great value in the fields they own. And then of course the owner may never be able to achieve for lots of reasons, including death. And then somebody might stumble upon it. And as I understand the, the laws there, of course, if you were to stumble upon something. I was in somebody else's property and and on earth that thing take it out of the ground. In this case, you would be by law required to bring that back to the person who owned the field. So there's something interesting here that this first person, probably the more meager and humble of the two with they at least respected, like their socioeconomic status is let's, we could presume maybe going about their normal work. They find this unexpectedly in the field and it's immediately recognized to be something of great value that it is to stop and to, again, there's like a measuring that happens behind the scenes. This person at least is measuring of all the things that I own, all things I could possibly own. The better thing for me to do is to consolidate all the rest of my wealth. And this case, again, it's not the message of the story to do this, it's the exemplification of what's happening here. This person is so sold out to ensure that they acquire this great treasure that they stumbled upon, that they will take literally everything else of value that they own to exchange it for this very thing. So I'm totally with you because I think the predominant message here is not like take all your wealth and make sure that you give it to the church or that it goes to ministry or to missions. That may all be well and good and it may all be the kind of calling that you receive. However, I think the principle message here is the kingdom of God is so valuable that losing everything on earth, but getting the kingdom is a happy trade off. Like that's actually a really, really good deal. And so having the omnipotent saving reign of Christ in our lives is so valuable that if, if we lose everything in order to have it, it would be a joyful sacrifice. [00:22:20] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. And you know, I think, um, I think there is a level of. Encouragement in Sacrifice and Joy in the Kingdom [00:22:27] Tony Arsenal: Sacrifice that happens for every Christian and. I mean, I, I know there's a lot of people who they, uh, come to faith as young children and we've kind of talked about that as like, that's that testimony that, you know, I think everybody really wants is like they wish they never had a time that they didn't know Jesus and Right. I don't know any parent that I've ever spoken to, and I'm certainly not any different here that doesn't want that testimony for Jesus, but, or for, for their kids in their relationship with Jesus. But. I think most people who come to faith at some point in their life when they're able to remember it, like they, they have a conscious memory of their conversion experience. There is this sort of sense of sacrifice and e even a sort of a sense of loss. Um, I think there, there are times where, and, and you know, I think maybe, um, even people who've always been in the faith, um, they probably can resonate with this. I think there are times when we might look at how our lives could have been different or could be different if we weren't in the faith. Um, and, and sometimes there's a sort of wistfulness to that. Like being a Christian can sometimes be difficult right On, um, you know, maybe you miss a promotion opportunity because you're not willing to work on the Lord's day or because you're not willing to do something unethical. Like you, you miss out on some sort of advancement and you think, well, if I could just, you know, if I could have just gotten past that, like my life would be much different. And what this parable teaches us is. That's an understandable, like that's an understandable emotion or response. Um, and there is this weighing of the cost. And in the parable here, he, like you said, there's this calculation that goes on in the background. He finds this treasure, he makes the calculation that to have this treasure is worth. Everything it's worth everything he has. He sells everything he has, and he buys the field in order to get the treasure right. And, and there's some interesting textual dynamics going on through this chapter. We've talked about how the parables kind of like the imagery across the parables in chapter 13 here of Matthew, they kind of flip certain figures around and almost, it's almost intentional because he is getting the treasure and the treasure. The kingdom of heaven here is like the treasure, but he's also getting the field right. And the kingdom of heaven is, is the field in other parables. Um, but this, this calculation that happens, um. I don't know, maybe my heart is just sensitive to this right now. I, I, I, I feel like a lot of times we look at that sort of wis wistful second glance at what could have been if we were not Christians, and we automatically feel like that's gotta be a sinful impulse. Like, how could I ever even consider what life might have been? Like this parable implies that that's the thing we actually have to do. You have to know and consider what it is you've sacrificed or will be sacrificing in order to make this transaction happen. You can't just blanketly say like, oh, of course. You know, you've gotta, you've gotta count the cost, as it were, and then you have to actually make the purchase. So I think we should look at this as a source of encouragement. Um, like I said, I'm not sure why. I feel like maybe there's, maybe there's just a, a. I dunno, I'm feeling a little weird and charismatic right now. I feel like this is something that I definitely need to be saying, like, I feel like someone needs to hear this. Maybe it's just me that needs to hear this. And that's, I'm tricking myself by thinking of someone else. But we are able, as Christians, I think God permits us and in some sense, maybe even expects and commands us to recognize what we have given to be Christians in order that we might realize how much we have gained with that transaction. It's not just this like remorse or regret, um, for the sake of remorse or regret. It's to be able to see how good and how beautiful and how worth it is the kingdom of God, uh, to, to, to claim that. [00:26:23] Jesse Schwamb: I like that there is a great discipline and a great joy in remembering worth and worthiness. So there's gonna be times, like you said, when it's hard and if you look back, look back at the ministry of Jesus, I've often thought that he's like a poor evangelizer from like modern standards. Yeah. Because often people come to him and say things like. I, I wanna be part of the kingdom of God. Well, what do I need to do to enter the kingdom of God? And here you have like a seemingly a willing convert. And he always says things like this, like, you gotta go count the cost. Yeah. Like is, is this worth it to you? Like you have to deny yourself, you have to hate your own father and your mother, and your wife and children, and brothers and sisters, even your own life. Otherwise you cannot be my disciple. And in this kind of language, it's clear that Jesus is saying you fail often. And maybe this goes back like you're saying, Tony, it's like the parable of the soil that you fail to really take into account what it means to follow with full fidelity, to commit yourself in a fully unencumbered way. Are you willing to do that? Are you willing to consider that? And as human beings, we're just not good often at counting costs. We're not good at thinking about opportunity costs. And it's interesting here that we're called out to say, even if you've already purchased the field as so to speak, that as if you've been saved by Christ, to continue to remember how good it is to be in the kingdom of God. And that the joy. Of knowing as like the Heidelberg Catechism says in the first question that all things are subservient to our salvation. Yeah. That incredible worth of, that should be a source of encouragement in times of great trial and tribulation, no matter how big or small, so that this joy that this person has when they go and sells everything he has and he buys this field, you know those details, like you're saying, do press us. It really comes to us with this idea that we should be able to see plainly why having Christ is more valuable than all other things. If the omnipotence all wise, God is ruling, ruling over all things for our joy, then everything must be working for our good, no matter how painful and in the end, God is gonna triumph over all evil and all pain. So this kingdom is a real treasure. Like it is a, it is a real. A real quantity in our life and our wellbeing and in our spiritual consistency, that'll ought demand some reflection of how valuable it truly is. And then knowing that in our minds, that like influencing our behavior, our other thought patterns, and then our actual feelings about stuff. So that when, like you said, we're passed over, we're looked over, we're ridiculed for something, we go back and we count it all joy to be worthy of being part of God's kingdom, knowing that it was because of the entrance and acceptability and the identity in that kingdom that we experience. Those things, those hardships begin with. [00:29:05] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. And, and I, um, I don't want us to miss out on the fact that even as the parable may be encouraging or forcing us to think about. The cost. It, it really is trying to emphasize the great value of the kingdom. Right? Right. We, like I said, we, we don't just count the cost. In order to count the cost for its own sake. We count the cost in order to understand the great blessing that is ours in Christ. Right. All I, I count all that I have as a loss compared to the greatness of Christ Jesus. And, um, I think we just don't often do that. I, I, I think as Christians, that's probably a thought that is in our head more as young Christians, especially if we come to the faith in, in a time in our life where we're aware of things like that. We think about things like that. Reflecting on the Cost of Faith [00:29:59] Tony Arsenal: You know, I was 15 when I first came to faith and, um, I, I don't think I was in a frame of mind as a 15-year-old boy to think about, like. The cost of what I was doing, right? It's not like I was a particularly popular kid. I didn't have a, you know, I didn't, I wasn't unpopular, but it wasn't like I lost a ton of friends when I became a Christian. I didn't really lose anything that was measurable. Um, but I do think that, as, you know, someone now in my forties, looking back at, you know, 15, 20, 25 years of, of Christian life, it's easy to see that things could have been different on a sort of temporal scale. Like my, my life could probably be more comfortable in terms of wealth or opportunities or other things that might, uh, aren't, aren't even bad things necessarily. There is a sense of sacrifice. But again, God has brought us into this kingdom and he's given us parables like this and given us the ability to recognize. That we do have a cost, that there is a cost to be counted in order that we might now look at it and praise him for how great and glorious and valuable the gift that he's given us is. Understanding the Parable of the Pearl [00:31:08] Tony Arsenal: And so I think, you know, I think that's the same basic meaning of this second, second half of the same parable. I guess the, the pearl of great price or the pearl of great value. But it's not exactly the same, right? It's not like Christ is just repeating the same ver, you know, parable with, with different words for variation. Um, every word is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching correction, reproof, and training and righteousness. And I had a, I had a prophet in, uh, in Bible college who would say like, difference means difference. And he was often talking about like minute things, like the difference, um, or why, why is this word used instead of that word? This word would've worked. And, and the author chose that one. There's a reason for that. Difference means difference, but. Christ here chooses to, to tell the parable a second time, um, in a slightly different way. Uh, and Matthew chooses to record these in the same sense next to each other in slightly different ways. So what, what do we, what do we wanna pull out of this second parable that's different and what do we think it's telling us that's a little bit different than the first version Y? [00:32:14] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, that's a great question. Diverse Approaches to the Kingdom of Heaven [00:32:16] Jesse Schwamb: Uh, I love this idea because not until really, I was thinking about it this week when I read through them, was I really, again, drawn to the differences between these two main characters. Interestingly, I think in both, and we can make the case that the, the treasure, the kingdom of heaven here represented in both this pearl or in this literal treasure is in a way hidden. Certainly the first man is not necessarily looking for, it's still revealed to him, but the second in a way. And on the other hand, he knew this guy knows treasure. He's been seeking it with diligence in vigor, or at least like this is what he does for a living in his vocational career. He's out there trading pearls, presumably, and he knows something about them and how to evaluate them effectively. And so it's his business and he's dedicated himself to finding them. And apparently he's seen plenty of them over the years. But then all of a sudden, and this is wild, the beautiful, all of a sudden, clearly the search comes to like an abrupt end because he finds this one of immeasurable value, so much beauty exceeding and value exceeding all the other ones. And he doesn't need to search anymore. He just finds the one pearl that he can retire on a pearl with more than everything else. Or anything else that he's ever possessed and he gets it again. He does. And this brings him into symbol two with the first man. He does the same thing, then liquidate everything else and go after this one. Great pearl. So to me, and I'm curious your perspective on this, I'm not necessarily promulgating that. Well, the first one is not a seeker and the second one is like a seeker of of God things. Right? There is though, like you said, a difference in their approach and what they're after. And so I think what we can take from this, at the very least, is that there is diversity in these beneficiaries of the kingdom of God that's covering everybody. And just by these two kind of bookended or polar examples, that's what Jesus draws us to. But I would turn the question back to you. What do you think about this second guy? What do you think about the fact that his business is searching after these things? What? What do we take away from that? [00:34:07] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. The Ultimate Value of the Kingdom [00:34:07] Tony Arsenal: And you know, the thing that drop that jumps out to me immediately in the first parable, the kingdom of heaven is, is like the treasure hidden in the field, [00:34:16] Jesse Schwamb: right? [00:34:16] Tony Arsenal: In the second one, the kingdom of heaven is the merchant who's searching, [00:34:20] Jesse Schwamb: right? [00:34:20] Tony Arsenal: Right. The kingdom of heaven is like the merchant in search of fine pearls who finds one. That's right. And so I think that they kind of are like, almost like mirror images of each other, right? One of them is about the treasure and what it takes to come upon it and then obtain it. The second is about the person who is coming upon the treasure and, and finding it. And then what it takes again to obtain that treasure. And I think, I think you're right, there is an element here that. Um, in this second parable, the person who is seeking for this treasure is one he's seeking for the treasure, right? Right. You get the image in this, in this first parable that the dude just kind of stumbles upon it. Um, I've heard this Todd as like, it's actually more like a guy who's just walking through a field rather than like a person working the field. And I'm not sure that matters that much, but there is this sense in the first parable that the guy kind of stumbles upon it. He wasn't looking, it wasn't what he was trying to do, but you're right in the second one, the kingdom of heaven, and this is where I, this is where I think I need to think more about it, is what does it mean for the kingdom of heaven to be like a merchant searching for fine pearls right [00:35:23] Jesse Schwamb: on. [00:35:23] Tony Arsenal: Rather than the pearls being the kingdom of heaven, which is what we see in the first bearable. Um, and I don't know the answer to that question. I think I need to, need to think about it and study it a little bit more. But I do like this distinction that in, in the first case, it's sort of a happy accident. And in the second case, this is, this is the life, this man's life work. He finds he's, he's in search of fine pearls. I'm not sure I know exactly what he's trying to do with the fine pearls. It seems like it implies that he's a pearl merchant or a pearl trader, but then he finds this pearl. He doesn't seek to sell it. He buys it. Right. [00:36:00] Jesse Schwamb: Right. [00:36:00] Tony Arsenal: And, and the, the, the fact that the parable stops with him buying it sort of implies that like. He actually is not going to sell it. He's just gonna keep this pearl. Now before the, the pearls, the, the source of the value of the pearls was kind of in the, the financial gain that selling or trading them could bring. But now he suddenly finds this pearl that is so valuable. It's so great, it's so beautiful. Everything he was working to obtain before all of the money he's gathered by finding and selling pearls in the previous like mode of living. He now gets rid of all of that just to purchase this one pearl and presumably to keep it. And I think that again, is kind of a, kind of a, um, statement on our Christian life is that we, we probably have all sorts of things that we've been doing our whole life and we are seeking to, to move forward in our life. And the kingdom of heaven is kind of the ultimate goal of all of that, for those who are in Christ, for those who are called according to his purpose. The purpose is not just to accumulate wealth. It's not even necessarily, uh, in and of itself to like grow in righteousness. It's to be transformed to the, uh, to the image of God's glory son, for the purpose of making him great, making his name renowned. Right. When we look at that passage in Romans that have kind alluded to, he's, he would transform into the image of Christ so that he might be the first born among many brothers. The Incomparable Worth of Salvation [00:37:24] Tony Arsenal: Ultimately, our, our sanctification and glorification is about making Jesus great and glorified, um, to give him glory, to have our glorification reflect his already intrinsic glory and the gift that he gives us, and I think that's kind of, kind of in play here, is that. Uh, we might have all sorts of goals in our life. We might have goals in our Christian life, um, that are good things that we should strive for, but at the end of the day, all of those things only serve to bring us to the kingdom of heaven, which is this pearl of great price that we, we purchase, we buy it and we just kind of hang onto it. It is its own treasure and it's, it's not about what this, this treasure can bring to us, right? Which is what the fine pearls were before they were about what the merchant can find and sell. It's, it's now about just obtaining the pearl and enjoying that pearl. Um, which I think is a little bit different than, than, um, what I would've thought of with the par before. [00:38:19] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, I totally agree with you. I think, I think you're actually onto something with the distinction because I think of. So much of my career has been spent in financial services among people who are buyers and sellers of things. They're traders. And the way I read this was very similar to what you were saying to me. What resonated was if this gentleman or this person is. Trading, collecting these pearls. Presumably they have appreciation for the beauty of the pearl itself. So there is like something innate that draws them to this particular thing. And with that experience and with that knowledge and with that, that appreciation of that beauty. I think when they see this other pearl, it moves from, well, why would I ever sell that? I've seen everything. This is the most beautiful pearl I've ever laid my eyes on. And now I want to keep it for me. I want to have it in my possession. I want to cherish it and not just keep it in the inventory and then turn around and sell it for markup, presumably, because there is no nothing that would be of greater value to this person. 'cause they just sold everything else that they had. So they, it's appreciation for the pearl itself. It's going after that finding and seeking that great beauty. And then that led me right into Philippians chapter four, where Paul writes the church in Philippi, beginning of verse eight. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever's honorable, whatever's just whatever's pure, whatever's lovely, whatever's commendable. If there's any excellence, if there. Anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me. Practice these things and the god of peace will be with you. So this idea, like you and I, Tony, have talked about like the world has great wisdom, it has great knowledge, it has things that can lead us by way of common grace into certain amounts of peace. But the pearl of great price, the seeking after the going after all these great things is to find the gospel, to be given the gospel it revealed to you. And then say everything else I count as a loss. Everything else is worthless compared to this thing. And if you're a person that can appreciate even just by turn of mind or God's influence in your life, you know, knowledge and wisdom, and you're seeking after that, which is the ultimate expression and representation of those things, and then you find you come upon this pearl of great price, the gospel wisdom and the beauty of God represented in his son Jesus Christ. And you say, this is it. I, I know enough to know, again, by the regeneration that comes through the spirit, this is the real deal. Then I think the message still stands. We come through two different directions into the same final culminating point, which is there is a condition for having this kingdom of God, for having the king on your side as your friend, but the condition isn't like wealth or power or negotiating or intelligence or even good trading behavior or going out and finding the right thing. The condition is that we prize the kingdom more than anything else we own. The point of selling everything in these parables is to simply show where our hearts are at. And so I often say in my own line of work, that cost only matters in the absence of value. Actually, it's true for everything that we. We presumably spend our time or our money on cost only matters in the absence of value. And I think like you and I could do a fun little experiment where I don't know, you ever talking to somebody about something and you're paying a cost to have that service delivered to you and you're, and you're just like totally worth it, like I would do totally worth it. Like, yeah, that's kind of the vibe I'm getting here. It's like at the end of days when we think about the worthiness of our God, that there's no one like him, that he's unequal, that he has no rival, that the gospel is the sweetest message that we're rescued literally from the pit. We're just say no matter what the cost of us personally, great or small, totally worth it, that that's what we'll be saying for all of eternity as we worship him. [00:41:45] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, and I think even more than saying, totally worth it. I think when we are given our new eyes to see, and we no longer see through a da a glass dimly, we're gonna recognize saying that it was worth, it is is like it's a pale, like it's a faulty answer to begin with because the, for sure the worth of the kingdom of heaven surpasses anything we could imagine. And in our, you know, locked in little meat brains that we have now, we're kind of com we're just comparing it to. You know, like what, what we could have had or what we, what we've given up. Um, it, it's gonna be an incomparable comparison. Like there's no, there's no measure that is satisfying, there's no measure that can actually show us how, how worthwhile it is. And, you know, we've, we've made a point of it, like the, the blessing of salvation and, and really like what it is that we're getting, uh, in, in the. You know, the Christian understanding of salvation, it's not, it's not an eternal destiny. It's not bigger mansions in heaven. It's not freedom from death. All of those things come with it. All of those things are attending gifts. That's right. But what we get in salvation ultimately is we get God we get union with God, we get fellowship with Jesus Christ in the, the power of the Holy Spirit. We, we get swept up into the life of the, the God of the universe. Like the life of the Trinity indwells us. And we, we become a part of that. Uh, not, not in the, you know, like. Eastern Orthodox deification sense, although I think there's a proper way we can talk about deification. Um, but we get swept up into that. We gain the relationship that the son has with the father by nature. We gain that by grace and nothing can compare to that. There's nothing that we could ever point to. Um, it's funny, my, my wife and I, um, this is a little corny, but, um, we'll often say to, to each other instead of saying, I love you more than anything, we'll say, I love you more than everything. Right. And, and it's, it's a way to say like. You could take all that there is in the world, everything that I have that I could possibly consider and sum up the value. And I love my wife more than that. I love my children more than that. So it's not that I love them more than any one thing, it's that I love them more than everything combined. And this is even greater than that, right? We, we will look back at our lives and if, if it's even in our mind, if we even can, can comprehend anymore. The idea of thinking about what it costs us to obtain this pearl of great value, which is the kingdom of heaven, which is just another way to say, is just fellowship with the God of the universe. Um, we'll look at it and say no matter what it was. No matter what it could have been, I would give everything I, I love God more than everything. Right. Right. There's nothing that could ever possibly be considered that even comes close to what we gain in, in Christ Jesus, in union with, with God. And I think that's the point of this, like I think the guy who, um. Christ's Perfect Sacrifice and Our Response [00:44:58] Tony Arsenal: I think about what it would take for me to even like to sell everything, like the concept of selling everything I own. I'm not even sure how I would do that, to be honest with you. Like, I don't even know the mechanism for that kind of thing. But the idea that there's anything that could be valuable enough that I would just sell every piece of human property that I have, there's probably nothing like that in this world. Like, there probably isn't. And to, to take that comparison and then basically say like, that's just what the kingdom of God is like. 'cause that's the other thing I think we miss about parables is you, you only make a comparison when you can't describe something, um, analytically, right? There's the difference between analogically and analytically Ana lot analytically means we're able to actually quantify and explain it kind of in strict terms, right? I can, I can say that, um, uh, a heavy object ways, X number of grams or it, you know, or, um. Pounds or whatever. I can, I can measure that and make an analytical statement, or I can make an analogy, an analogy that is comparative. Uh, but by definition, or almost by by nature of the thing, when you make that comparison, you're kind of saying like, not only is it like this, but it's actually it, like it's more like this than I can even describe. Right? So when we're talking about the kingdom of Heaven here, and we say it's, it's like, it's like a man who goes, he finds a treasure and then he sells everything. He has to get that treasure. It's infinitely more like that than it actually can be described. Does that make sense? I feel like I'm rambling on that a little bit. Maybe trying to describe something that can't be described is, is hard to do. [00:46:35] Jesse Schwamb: It's, that's, yeah. But yeah, that's, that's very difficult to do. I'm actually totally with you on this. I think I understand clearly what you mean, this idea that no matter how hard we actually try to value it, we'll be incapable of doing so. Yes. And at best, it almost seems like this is a strange command in a way because it's, it's asking us to do in some ways a thing that is impossible for us to do. However, I think what you're saying is it doesn't mean that we shouldn't turn our minds toward that. We're a bit like people who, I don't know if this show is still on PBS, but like, do you know that show, remember that show The Antiques Road Show? Yeah. Where people would like come, they'd ran ransack their homes or their garages with these old antique items and they bring them to this road show where there'd be experts who would value them. And inevitably we'll be like those people who come with what we think is like a. A thousand dollars clock that we got at a garage sale thinking, wouldn't it be great? I know this is valuable. It's probably a thousand dollars. It'll be, look at the return, tenfold return, I'll get on this item, and then instead finding that it's worth $10 million when it's appraised. Yeah, I assume it'll be just like that in the Beautific vision that even maybe for all of eternity will be growing in our appreciation for just how valuable this great salvation is. And yet at the same time, I think what this should encourage us to do is to pray things like God make us real in seeing and savoring Christ in his saving work above all the other things. Yeah. So that, as you said in your example, we would cherish him above everything, above all things that you have that right place in our hearts or that we be inclined to undertake that posture, which says, God, though I cannot understand it in full. Would you help me to see that? Encouragement in Our Spiritual Journey [00:48:08] Jesse Schwamb: And I wanna just say like, as a word of encouragement, maybe I'm speaking more to myself here so everybody else can disregard this if you like, but I think sometimes there can be a little bit of intimidation then when you hear these things and say like, ah, I'm just not, I just dunno if I love God enough, like I wanna love him, or I want to want to love him more. And I think even that posture is appropriate. Yeah. Sometimes there, oftentimes in my personal life, I'll pray something like, God, help me to know how much you love me and would you give me the strength to love you back? So that even that awareness, that energy, that volition, that vitality, that, that heat, all of that, that fire itself is kindled by the Holy Spirit. It's not like we need to like try to again manufacture here. Because the point of these, these stories is not again, that we just find the means to do a transactional exchange here, but that instead we really just sit in the full promises of God. And of course to that, I would say we always need to go back to, to something like Romans eight. I mean, I know that we should, like you said, Tony, the. The standard description we give for the Bible is the one that gives itself, which is that all of it, all of it's is carried along by the Holy Spirit. All of it is God breathe. All of it is useful for something. And yet, of course, I say somewhat tongue in cheek that, you know, if I have 10 minutes to live, I'm probably not gonna the s descriptions of reading a genealogy, I'm going straight from Roman and say, Romans say, I think it's just like the pinnacle of the scriptures. And so just a couple of verses at the end there, because I think this is, this is leading us into what is this great treasure? What is the kingdom of God? Why do we value it so much? What is the saving power? And uh, these verses, I mean, always just entirely get me ready to run through a wall. So this is the end of, of Romans eight beginning verse 35. Who shall separate us from the law of Christ? Shall tribulation or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword as it is written for your sake. We are being killed all the day long. We are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered. No. In all these things, we are more than conquerors through him who loved us for I'm sure that neither death nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from a love of God in Christ Jesus, our Lord. [00:50:22] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. That's, that's a good word. And I, I, I like what you're saying too, is, is I think we, we can. There's this paradoxical thing that happens when the scriptures is trying to encourage us to do something, is we often like to get our, in our own way. And, and actually that becomes a source of discouragement for us. The Bible calls us to something and we know we can't live up to it. And that's actually like part and parcel of, of reform theology to recognize that this is law, like the, the, the, the, you know, maybe not in like the strict sense, like when we talk about dividing the scripture into law and gospel, um. It may not be that this particular passage would fall under that rubric of law normally, but this idea that we need to count the cost and that we need to be treasuring Christ more and more, and then when we feel like I'm just not getting it. I'm just not there. Like, I don't, I don't treasure Christ as much as I so should. Um, that Yeah, that's right. Nobody does. Nobody can, like, that's, that's kind of the point of this, and that's why it's law is it's, it shouldn't drive you in Christ. It should not drive you to despair. Right. It should not drive you to discouragement. It should drive you to gratitude that God saved you anyways. That, that this pearl of great value is still yours even though you can't possibly deserve it. Um, you know, we're, we're a little bit different than the, the merchant and the man who finds the treasure in the field in that we can't sell everything we have and obtain it like they have the ability to do that in the, in the parables. Right. Um, we, we don't, and we never will. And so rather than let that drive you to being discouraged that like you're just not getting. I recognize God is of infinite value and we are finite creatures. So we, we could, uh, value God perfectly. Like whatever that means, and I don't even know what that means, but we could value and cherish and love God perfectly as far as our capacities are concerned, and it still would not be enough to sufficiently merit God's favor for us. Like as much as we can, even in, even in eternity. As much as we can value and worship and love and praise Jesus, he is worth infinitely more than we could ever give, even when we do it perfectly. And this is, this is why you know Christ coming to die, to live on our behalf, to die in our place. Why that's necessary is because only this is a, maybe a different take on it. We, I think we talk a lot about how, um. Only God could, could carry, bear the wrath of God and not be destroyed. Right. Right. Only God could, um, could stand up under his own wrath, could stand up under the wrath of God and bear that punishment and not be destroyed. And so therefore, um, Christ had to be not just a man, but had to be God. But on the flip side. And God requires perfect perpetual obedience, which involves loving the Lord your God, perfectly with your whole heart at all times. Right? Only God can do that too. So it's not just that God. It's not just that G

This week, Israeli settler violence continues against Palestinians; Mike, Russell, and Clarissa discuss the complex dynamics in the West Bank. Then, Congress releases emails from Jeffrey Epstein that mention President Trump. Nicole Martin stops by to consider how we can think about the new revelations. Last, CT contributor Luke Simon joins the conversation about the role of purity in Christian discourse about sexuality and political violence.  REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE: ‘Promised Land' miniseries by The Bulletin Rachael Denhollander Calls for a Southern Baptist Reckoning on Abuse on The Russell Moore Show Harm, Trauma, and Church Abuse with Diane Langberg on The Russell Moore Show Have We Kissed Purity Goodbye? By Luke Simon GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN:  Join the conversation at our Substack.  Find us on YouTube.  Rate and review the show in your podcast app of choice.    ABOUT THE GUESTS:   Nicole Martin is Christianity Today's chief operating officer. She is the author of several books including Nailing It: Why Successful Leadership Demands Suffering and Surrender and Made to Lead: Empowering Women for Ministry. Luke Simon is a content strategist for The Crossing church in Columbia, Missouri, and a M.Div. student at Covenant Theological Seminary. He has written on Gen Z, technology, masculinity, and the church. His writing appears in Christianity Today, Mere Orthodoxy, and The Gospel Coalition. ABOUT THE BULLETIN:  The Bulletin is a twice-weekly politics and current events show from Christianity Today moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today's editor-at-large and columnist) and Mike Cosper (senior contributor). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more.    The Bulletin listeners get 25% off CT. Go to https://orderct.com/THEBULLETIN to learn more.    “The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity Today  Producer: Clarissa Moll  Associate Producer: Alexa Burke  Editing and Mix: TJ Hester Graphic Design: Rick Szuecs Music: Dan Phelps  Executive Producers: Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper   Senior Producer: Matt Stevens Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a season of Stillness, but I'm still here. ❤️‍

Start Your Transformation Now In this episode of the Transform Your Life podcast, I talk about the importance of living your own purpose in life rather than conforming to the expectations and ideals of others. I talk about how we can get stuck in careers, relationships, and situations that don't align with our true desires because we seek the approval of our parents, partners, and society. I ask you to explore whether you are truly living a purposeful, fulfilling life on your own terms or living your life for others. As I ask the last question, I think back to the 1991 movie, The Dead Poet's Society, and I think about the movie character named Neil. He wanted to pursue acting and loved it, but his stern father wanted him to go to Harvard Medical School. Neil hated the idea of medical school and found it soul-crushing, but he agreed. You'll have to watch the movie for the story's conclusion, but it's not uncommon for people to deny their own hopes, wishes, wants, and dreams and instead live their lives to please their parents. Often times cultural and familial pressures guide people down a path that doesn't fulfill them, and they live decades misaligned from their own purpose while trying to please others. So, it's important to ask whether you are living your own purpose or someone else's. Another purpose-robbing action that people often get into is seeking validation from others. This is a surefire way to live an unfulfilled life. For example, a friend of mine was constantly motivated by a desire for his father's approval, and that led him down an obsessive path of constantly trying to prove himself. This behavior disconnects you from your higher self and obscures your true purpose. You can't create an authentic life while dependent on external validation. I have found that the key to living your purpose is surrendering to your destiny and innate talents. This involves getting quiet, listening to your intuition, and taking aligned action. We must focus on the importance of being grateful and on contribution rather than achievement. Here are four key points you may want to keep in mind: Surrender to your innate talents and destiny.Listen to your intuition and take aligned action.Express gratitude and focus on contributing.Achievements will naturally follow purposeful contributions. You must examine whether you are living someone else's purpose or your own. If you are not thrilled by how you spend your days, you are likely conforming to others' expectations. I challenge you to get creative, listen within, and take steps each day to live your own purpose. Listen, apply, and enjoy! Transformational Takeaway When you are living your purpose, you are contributing your talents to activities that light you up, and you will experience true joy and fulfillment. Your key is being brave enough to live life on your own terms. Just do it. Mentioned Resources: EPISODE 280: History, Humanity, and Spiritual Ego. EPISODE 236: Living Life on Your Own Terms Let's Connect:Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | LinkedIn LIKED THE EPISODE?If you're the kind of person who likes to help others, then share this with your friends and family. If you have found value, they will too. Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts so we can reach more people. Listening on Spotify? Please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! With gratitude,Jim

Ukraine has been rocked by a major corruption scandal surrounding the country's energy sector, amidst ongoing Russian attacks on electricity infrastructure. An alleged $100m scheme, involving money laundering and kick backs, has led to the resignation of senior ministers and engulfed prominent allies of Volodymyr Zelensky. But despite the president's public backing of the probe, questions are being asked about what government officials knew, just months after mass protests against controversial attempts to curb the independence of state anti-corruption bodies.This week, Lucy and Vitaly are joined by Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse, and BBC Verify's Olga Robinson. They discuss the fallout from the fifteen-month investigation, and answer all of your questions. Could we see a western-backed referendum in the occupied territories? Will Ukraine reduce the age of conscription? And how much do Russia and the US cooperate beyond headline diplomacy?Today's episode is presented by Lucy Hockings and Vitaly Shevchenko.The producers were Laurie Kalus and Julia Webster. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The executive producer was Lewis Vickers. The series producer is Chris Flynn. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast's Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord

Worship Leader Taylor Cummings reflects on the response “Here I am,” highlighting Isaiah's vision of God's holiness and Samuel's call, showing how God cleanses, calls, and invites willing hearts to serve. She emphasizes a posture of availability to partner with God.

In a season of Stillness, but I'm still here. ❤️‍

Monday night, the Senate passed legislation to reopen the government, sending it to the House. The eight Senate Democrats who reached a deal with Republicans over the weekend defended their compromise ahead of the vote Monday. But many Democrats publicly criticized them for caving to the GOP without guaranteeing an extension to Affordable Care Act subsidies. Vermont Independent Senator Bernie Sanders has been one of the toughest critics of the Democrats who caved. We spoke with the senator ahead of Monday night's vote about the shutdown, healthcare, and why he thinks the fight is nowhere near over.And in headlines, the Supreme Court rejects a long-shot ask to consider overturning its landmark 2015 decision that legalized same-sex marriage, President Donald Trump hands out early Thanksgiving pardons to a whole flock of 2020 election conspirators, and the shutdown continues to impact flights across the country.Show Notes: Call Congress – 202-224-3121Subscribe to the What A Day Newsletter – https://tinyurl.com/3kk4nyz8What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcastFollow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In a season of Stillness, but I'm still here. ❤️‍