Podcasts about Sustainer

Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Come, Let Us Walk in the Light of the LordIsaiah 63:15-64:12 (ESV)17 “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth,and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind.18 But be glad and rejoice forever in that which I create;for behold, I create Jerusalem to be a joy, and her people to be a gladness.19 I will rejoice in Jerusalem and be glad in my people;no more shall be heard in it the sound of weeping and the cry of distress.20 No more shall there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not fill out his days,for the young man shall die a hundred years old, and the sinner a hundred years old shall be accursed.21 They shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit.22 They shall not build and another inhabit; they shall not plant and another eat;for like the days of a tree shall the days of my people be, and my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands.23 They shall not labor in vain or bear children for calamity,for they shall be the offspring of the blessed of the Lord, and their descendants with them.24 Before they call I will answer; while they are yet speaking I will hear.25 The wolf and the lamb shall graze together; the lion shall eat straw like the ox, and dust shall be the serpent's food.They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain,”says the Lord.Sermon OutlineSet your heart on the city of God and pursue lasting joy and gladness (vv17-18).1. What Is Missingvv19-25 “no more… weeping… cry of distress… infant who lives but a few days… they shall not… plant and another eat… labor in vain or bear children for calamity… wolf… lion… serpent…”v24 “Before they call I will answer”2. Who Is Presentv24 “while they are yet speaking I will hear.”vv18-19 “I create Jerusalem to be a joy… gladness. I will rejoice… be glad in my people”3. How We Livev25 “the lion shall eat straw like the ox…”v18 “be glad and rejoice forever in that which I create”Prayer of ConfessionOur Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer, we are in great need of your help. We wander this world foolishly seeking to satisfy our pride, greed and lust. When joy is lacking, we envy, resent, and act with spite. We have lived in the world for ourselves. We have not put you first. We admit our disordered loves and disordered life. With hard hearts we have neglected your call, making excuses instead of coming at your invitation. Forgive every offense. Transform our hearts and minds. Fill us with your love so we inhabit and serve our city as faithful citizens of your city. Grant us eternal joy and gladness through Christ. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat do you love about New York City (or where you live)? What do you not like?Why does the Bible make love for God such a priority? How is putting God first difficult for you?What in the list of what God will fix do you most long for: no more cries of distress, no early death, no building and others inhabiting, no futile work, no children born to suffer, no predators?How can the vision of a hopeful future help you in the present? How is the city of God different from human cities? What does Jesus do and say that indicates the new Jerusalem will be very different?What can you learn from the picture that the wolf and the lamb will graze together, and the lion will eat straw like an ox? How is the pursuit of joy and the pursuit of God intertwined? What can you change in your life so that there is more joy and gladness in it?How can sacrificial service be a means to a more satisfying life?Read AheadIsaiah Sermon Series

We shouldn't settle for a dim view of Jesus or get ideas about him from culture, or caricatures, or assumptions. He is the image of the invisible God, Creator, Sustainer, Supreme Head of all. // A message by Chris Hyatt.

Year C – Trinity Sunday – June 15, 2025 Pastor Megan Floyd John 16:12-15 Athanasian Creed   Grace and Peace to you from our Lord, Jesus Christ, who is God and the Holy Spirit… the Three-in-One. Amen. Today is Holy Trinity Sunday… now I have several clergy friends who prefer to gloss over this one, but given how cloudy our understanding of the Trinity is, I thought we should dig in, yes? So today… Trinity Sunday… is a different sort of festival… in that what we are celebrating is actually… our church doctrine… it is the church's explanation of God's nature as three-in-one… one-in-three… or rather, we should say… Today we celebrate our almost understanding of God's nature. I say almost, because… it isn't perfect… no description we can imagine or create will truly capture who God is… and that's also the point. Nothing we can say about God will fully describe God's being because God is massive and ultimately beyond our full understanding. God is mystery… and wonder… and awe… And yet… This massive and mysterious God yearns for a relationship with us… a personal relationship with humanity… God wanted that so much that God came and walked with us in the person of Jesus Christ. Our great and powerful God… in a poor and humble human body. God came and shared our joy and our pain… lived a human life with us… and submitted himself to our most incredibly violent actions… all to show us how much God was invested in this relationship. And after Jesus defeated death, and was resurrected from the tomb… he continued to share life with us before ascending to heaven, but not before drawing our attention to the Holy Spirit… Our advocate… the Holy Spirit of God… the very breath of God that fills our lungs and permeates our lives… God who surrounds us… and lives within us. God, the mighty and powerful creator… Jesus… our humble redeemer and friend… and Spirit… the one who sustains us and saturates our world… Distinct in their divinity but together as one… one God. “One God in trinity, and the Trinity in unity, neither confusing the persons nor dividing the divine being… the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is one, equal in glory, coeternal in majesty.” Makes perfect sense, yes? As humans, in a relationship, we want to set parameters… we want to understand and know the other person… We like to believe that fully knowing another is actually possible. For example… my parents have been married for forty-nine years. I'd say they know each other very well… they can anticipate each other's reactions and moods. But occasionally, they still surprise each other… And my husband and I have been married almost twenty-two years… we respond in unison so often that we suspect we might share a brain. But we are still – all of us – separate people with different perspectives on life. Think about your closest relationship… perhaps with your spouse… or a sibling or cousin… maybe a life-long best friend. You know this person through and through… you can describe and anticipate this person's thoughts and reactions… You have laughed together… cried together… and yet, you are not them… they are not you… Even the person you know the most is distinct from you in such a way that prevents you from ever fully understanding what it is… to be them… And your person… the one you have in mind now… is human… How much more than that is our God? With God… full knowledge and understanding will always be… just beyond our reach. And that's ok. For us to be invested in our relationships with anyone, but particularly with God, we must invest our time in them. We must share our full life with them… laugh and cry together… learn and grow together. With God… Jesus… Spirit… we dwell in our learning and growing through prayer, worship, and spending time in the Scriptures… laughing together… crying together… giving thanks for God's enduring faithfulness. In our scriptures, we read and relive God's interactions with our ancestors so that we can be attuned to God's interactions with us. Because God did not stop acting after Revelation was written! We come together in worship and praise, and we wait for the Lord to come to us… to meet us in our lives… we nurture our relationship with God so that when God shows up, we recognize the one who calls us beloved. Our doctrine of the Trinity… our best attempt at describing God's three-in-oneness… wasn't handed to the disciples as a list of terms and conditions to accompany the Holy Spirit… This doctrine… this way of understanding… developed over a few hundred years of faithful followers of Jesus trying to make sense of what happened… trying to understand how these events fit in with the Hebrew scriptures and laws, and with the writings and teachings they'd gathered since Jesus's death and resurrection… The Trinity is our best attempt at describing God's divine presence in and with and through all things in all places… for all time and even outside of time. Our understanding of the Trinity came from those who dedicated their time and attention to their relationship with God… and allowed that relationship to reveal new discoveries about our Creator… Redeemer… and Sustainer. The Three-in-one… One-in-three. However, what we celebrate today is not the doctrine itself per se, but that this idea gave us a new lens through which to revisit Scripture… a new perspective to help us understand our interactions with the Divine. This new perspective helped us realize that God… Jesus… Spirit… have always been… and were always there… and will be until the end of time… eternally together, yet separate… and eternally one. And so, this doctrine is the lens through which we now hear Jesus's parting words to his disciples… on the night in which he was betrayed. Jesus knows they cannot fully grasp the meaning of all that is about to occur… and that they won't fully understand everything he has taught them up until that point, until after he has defeated death. He knows that they will need to remember his words to understand… but he promises them that they will have help. God's Holy Spirit will surround them and guide them toward truth… will guide them in their continued living as disciples of Jesus. God's Holy Spirit will permeate their lives and continue to glorify God… to make God known for them… just as the Holy Spirit continues to glorify God for us. Jesus says of the Holy Spirit that it will continue to make Jesus known to them… because it will guide them in his teaching… just as Jesus' teaching has made God the Father known. The inspiration and guidance we receive from the Holy Spirit is not independent of God or Jesus… for the Spirit and Jesus and God are one. And yet… exactly how it is that God… Jesus… Spirit so saturates our very being remains a mystery that we know is true. We know it is true because we feel God all around us, we share stories of encountering God, and we do our best with our limited language to describe God's awesomeness… knowing that the full scope of God is just beyond our grasp. Kallistos Ware was an English bishop and theologian of the Eastern Orthodox Church, and he wrote, “We see that it is not the task of Christianity to provide easy answers to every question, but to make us progressively aware of a mystery. God is not so much the object of our knowledge, as the cause of our wonder.” It is our wonder that keeps us invested in this amazing relationship with our Creator… and it is our awe that reminds us who we are and whose we are… We seek the triune God who reveals themselves to us as three… and yet one… the source of our life and our salvation… A divine mystery that we can explore for our whole lives, knowing and accepting that full knowledge is not for us in this life. And that's ok. We can celebrate our almost understanding, using the doctrine of the Trinity as our lens through which we read, and grow in awareness of God's story… Always leaving room for wonder and awe for our Creator… Redeemer… and Sustainer… the three-in-one… and one-in-three. Amen.

Pastor Bruce MacLean takes us through Psalm 65, the Harvest Psalm. He discusses how this Psalm emphasizes God as Savior, God as Creator, and God as Sustainer.Come study God's Word with us! We invite you to connect with us each week. For the full series plus more messages and resources, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.ccc-online.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

If someone asked you to explain what it means that Allah is the Creator, the Sustainer, the One in charge of every single thing—would you be able to answer? Most Muslims would nod, but few can actually put that belief into words, let alone live by it. That's where Tawheed Ar-Ruboobiyyah comes in—not as an abstract category, but as the core of how you see Allah. In this session, Ustadh Sadiq A. Yasin strips it back to the basics: What does it really mean that Allah alone creates, owns, governs, provides—and no one shares in that? Why do so many acknowledge Allah as Lord, yet still fall into shirk? And what hidden assumptions do we carry that quietly contradict what we claim to believe? This isn't just theory. It's the foundation every Muslim needs before they can truly say La ilaha illa Allah and mean it. Sign up now to AMAU Academy: https://www.amauacademy.com/ AMAU Academy: https://www.amauacademy.com/ AMAU Junior: https://amaujunior.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amauofficial/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/AMAU Telegram: https://t.me/amauofficial YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AMAUofficial Twitter: https://twitter.com/AMAUofficial iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/al-madrasatu-al-umariyyah/id1524526782 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/08NJC1pIA0maaF6aKqZL4N Get in Touch: https://amau.org/getintouch BarakAllahu feekum. #Allah #AMAU #aqeedah #tawheed #iman

Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." What a majestic opening to the Word of God! With ten simple words, the Bible shatters every false philosophy! Atheism is silenced--for there is a God. Polytheism is refuted--for there is but one God. Materialism is exposed--for matter is not eternal, but created. Evolution is denied--for creation was by divine fiat, not blind chance. Pantheism is dismissed--for God is distinct from His creation. "In the beginning God…"--this is where all true knowledge must begin. Before time, before space, before anything that is seen--there was God. He is self-existent, eternal, and independent. He needs nothing, but out of His own sovereign pleasure, He spoke the universe into being! Everything that exists--every atom, every planet, every creature--owes its existence to Him. The psalmist declares, "By the Word of the Lord were the heavens made, their starry host by the breath of His mouth!" (Psalm 33:6) This first verse of Scripture is foundational. If we do not believe that God created the heavens and the earth, then we will not rightly understand the rest of Scripture. Hebrews 11:3 reminds us: "By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command." God alone is the Creator, and the Owner, and the Sustainer, and the Ruler--of all things in His creation. This verse also sets the tone for worship. If God is the Creator, then we are His creatures. We are not our own--we belong to Him. We are not the center of the universe--He is. We did not bring ourselves into being--we were made for His glory. "You are worthy our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and

Pastor Jordan launches the Rooted series with a powerful message from Colossians about anchoring your life in Christ. Learn how being deeply rooted in Jesus—our Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer—equips believers to withstand every storm and grow in spiritual strength.

Paul's prayer for the Colossians is that they would be controlled by things of the Lord—by the beauty of who Jesus is. False teachings had infiltrated the church, but Paul begins with, “See Jesus.” He dwells on Jesus before addressing the false teaching. So, who is Jesus? Jesus is the image of the invisible God. He is the Creator and Sustainer of all. Everything is His. He sees you, He knows you, and He holds it all together. Everything exists for the praise and glory of Christ. There's not even a single molecule outside of His control—and if He cares about a molecule, how much more does He care about you? Jesus is the true and only Redeemer because He is the only perfect sacrifice. It's not your goodness—it's Jesus' sacrifice on your behalf. We were once separated from Him, but Christ reconciled you and justified you before God Almighty. Jesus is supreme. He is preeminent. See Jesus. Be reminded of who He is and what He's done. Do everything you cannot to forget Him as you go throughout your day. See Jesus. Listen to this sermon about seeing Jesus for who He is in the second part of our In The Word series, walking through the book of Colossians.Check out our video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/xuxMvDGEOAgSubscribe to our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/8wmeCwBf_zkLearn more about us at chestnutmountain.orgFollow us on Facebook & Instagram @chestnutmtn_Don't forget to subscribe to this podcast, leave a review, and let us know what you think.

Scott Ryan teaches a message titled, "God's Watchful Care" from Psalm 121. • The Lord is our SOURCE. • The Lord is our STRONGHOLD. • The Lord is our SHELTER. • The Lord is our SUSTAINER.

Going to our Maker our Creator and Sustainer and our Savior and our Guide - giving thanks and praise and honor and glory this evening and always. Prayer #pray #praise #joy #beauty #peace #prayer #morningprayer #bow #love #rejoice #wisdom #holy #holiness #jesus #god #holyspirit #aimingforjesus #christian #christianprayer #morning #evening #bibleverse Thank you for listening, our heart's prayer is for you and I to walk daily with Jesus, our joy and peace aimingforjesus.com YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@aimingforjesus5346 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aiming_for_jesus/ Threads https://www.threads.com/@aiming_for_jesus X https://x.com/AimingForJesus Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@aiming.for.jesus

This week, Pastor Webb continued in his series on the book of Colossians.

This week, Josh, Cliff, Michael, and Justin gather around the table for an episode that mixes curiosity, theology, and a bit of controversy. The conversation is sparked by Michael's message on how Christ holds all things together—down to the atoms—and the surprising scientific depth he brought to the pulpit. The team reflects on Colossians 1 and how this passage doesn't just describe Jesus as Creator, but as the Sustainer—the glue, the gravity, the force keeping all creation intact. To explore the tension between belief and understanding, they engage in a game called Real Science or Totally Fake?—not just for laughs, but to surface a bigger point: what we believe about the nature of reality is ultimately answered in Christ. From discussions about molecules and laminin to the cosmic scope of Jesus' role, the hosts explore the bridge between science and faith, showing how both point to the same sustaining Savior.

Join Lisa and Laura for our series Names of God. In biblical times, names were of great importance—they conveyed a person's essence, history, nature, or character. As we explore the various names of God in the Old Testament, we gain insight into His character. With each name, we will learn a new attribute, deepening our understanding of and growing closer to God. In today's episode, we explore our second name, El Shaddai, which comes from two Hebrew words, “El,” the singular word for God, and Shaddai, meaning “Almighty” or “All-Sufficient.”  Do you believe that God is your Sustainer and has the power to show up in impossible situations and work miracles? Or do you take matters into your own hands when it looks like God isn't coming through on His promises? Today's conversation is one of our favorites, and you are encouraged to grab a cold drink, your Bible, settle in, and receive the truth you desperately need to hear: God can do the impossible. Open your Heart to our key Scripture. Genesis 17:1: When Abram was ninety-nine years old the Lord appeared to Abram and said to him, “I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless." Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode. Genesis 12:1–2: Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.” Genesis 15:2–3: “O Lord God, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?” And Abram said, “Behold, you have given me no offspring; and a slave born in my house will be my heir.” Genesis 15:4: “This man shall not be your heir; your own son shall be your heir.” Genesis 16 Genesis 17 Genesis 18:12–14: So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I have grown old, and my husband is old, shall I have pleasure?” The Lord said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh, and say, 'Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?' Is anything too hard for the Lord?” Genesis 18:15: But Sarah denied saying, “I did not laugh”; for she was afraid. And He said, “No, but you did laugh.” Genesis 22 Romans 4:18–21: In hope he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations; as he had been told, “So shall your descendants be.” He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was as good as dead because he was about a hundred years old, or when he considered the barrenness of Sarah's womb. No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. Psalm 91:1–2: He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, who abides in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust.” Invite Him in with this episode's questions for reflection. How is God calling you to trust Him as El Shaddai? Look at that area of life where He is asking you to trust Him and ask yourself whether there's a root of bitterness in your heart because you feel He is taking too long.  Show mentions. Walking with Purpose, short Bible studies for summer Amy Grant, “El Shaddai” John Parkhurst, Biblical lexicographer Let's stay connected. Don't miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform.  Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community. Stay in the know. Connect with us today.  We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ. Learn more about WWP on our website. Our shop. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube.

Sustainer_Allen Hilton_5.18.25 by Covenant Presbyterian

Monthly Giving Week is here! So how do you grow a recurring donor program from a trickle to over 5,200 committed supporters? In this powerful episode, Ashlyn Jones, the force behind Houston Food Bank's “Faithful Friends” program, shares how the organization invested in a full-time sustainer role. AND, why having someone solely focused on nurturing monthly givers has been a game changer for retention and revenue.Ashlyn walks us through how emergencies, storytelling, and strategic touchpoints helped build long-term donor loyalty. She dives into the campaigns and platforms they've used, including paid social ads, telefunding, and stewardship emails - and how simple things like phone calls and handwritten notes have moved the needle on retention.One of the most inspiring takeaways? Ashlyn's approach to storytelling and writing in a way that donors feel their impact immediately, leading to an increase in their monthly gifts. This episode is jam-packed with actionable advice for nonprofits ready to build a loyal base of recurring donors.Resources & LinksConnect with Ashlyn on LinkedIn and learn more about the Houston Food Bank on their website. This show is presented by LinkedIn for Nonprofits. We're so grateful for their partnership. Explore their incredible suite of resources and discounts for nonprofit teams here. Are you still dreaming about building your monthly giving program or refreshing your current one? Applications are now open for my “done with you” Monthly Giving Mastermind. 4 spots are open and we start in July. Click here to apply. My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good.Let's Connect! Send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the show! Head to YouTube for digital marketing how-to videos and podcast teasers Want to book Dana as a speaker for your event? Click here!

The close begins at 16.31Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O LORD, Thou dost know it all.Psalm 139:4We know God is omniscient, yet we hear one another telling God what He already knows when we talk to Him. The good news is that we see our Biblical examples engaging in the same thing. Why? We can get absorbed by our concerns or worship so much so we tell God what we know He knows.We see in the wedding a Cana, that all Mary said to Jesus was. "They have no wine." John 3:3Jesus, for His part, knew what she was asking.Our So What?He is what we are not, perfect.He understands our prayers, no matter how incomplete. Our aim in our community with our Creator, Savior, and Sustainer is to be open and laid bare to Him. We trust not in our words to inform, nor in eloquence to persuade, but in Him alone does our soul rest."What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'CheyneeDonation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Or go to www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the Voice Over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 InstagramSeason 007Episode 043

Are our efforts to help the poor always helpful, or could they sometimes do more harm than good?Today, we'll explore how short-term missions can genuinely reflect the heart of Christ and bring lasting change, without unintentionally hurting the very people we aim to serve. Dr. Brian Fikkert joins us for that conversation.Dr. Brian Fikkert is a Professor of Economics and Community Development and the Founder and President of the Chalmers Center for Economic Development at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. He is also the co-author of the book, Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions.What Is Poverty—Really?Americans often define poverty materially—a lack of necessities, such as food, clean water, clothing, or shelter. As a result, short-term mission trips often center around distributing goods or completing construction projects. But when you ask materially poor individuals around the world what poverty means to them, they describe feelings of shame, helplessness, and a lack of dignity.This reveals a disconnect: while we view poverty as a lack of material possessions, those experiencing it often define it in relational, psychological, and spiritual terms. True poverty is brokenness in relationship—with God, self, others, and creation. That insight should transform how we approach short-term missions.Even the most well-intentioned trips can do harm. Why? Because those going on these trips may carry pride, believing they have the answers or that their culture holds superiority. In contrast, those in materially poor communities often struggle with inferiority. That combination can worsen the very sense of worthlessness we hope to alleviate.Rather than reinforcing this brokenness, we should pursue humility and listen more than we speak. The goal should not be to "fix" but to restore—to foster healthy relationships that reflect the image of God in all people.Presence Over ProjectsShort-term trips shouldn't be about what we accomplish but about who we become in relationship.If poverty is rooted in broken relationships, then the solution is to restore people to right relationships. And that doesn't come through handing out supplies or completing a checklist—it comes through deep, lasting community.That's why the local church is God's primary instrument of restoration. Mission teams should support these churches in a “backstage” role—serving quietly, praying faithfully, and encouraging leaders who are already embedded in the community. Sometimes the best thing you can do is babysit the pastor's children so he and his wife can enjoy a night out. That kind of support strengthens the long-term work far more than any single project ever could.The Sending Church's Role in Long-Term SuccessMany short-term trips blur the line between gospel and Western culture. But the gospel transcends culture—and so should we.Colossians 1 reminds us that Christ is the Creator and Sustainer of all things. That means He is already at work in every community, regardless of how impoverished it may seem. When mission teams enter a new culture, they should approach it reverently, as if stepping onto holy ground. There is beauty in every culture, and highlighting it can be healing. Simply asking, “What's good here?” affirms the image of God in others and begins the work of restoration.How can the sending church help ensure long-term success in missions?It's not about executing a flawless trip. It's about fostering enduring partnerships with local ministries. That includes showing up year after year, offering consistent prayer and support, and being safe spaces where local leaders can be authentic. Success is not measured by how much we build but by how deeply we walk with others through life.Fundraising as a Form of DiscipleshipShort-term mission fundraising can also be reframed. Young people often feel pressure to produce tangible results in exchange for financial support. But if the goal is to learn and grow, that's a worthy investment.Go as a learner and communicate that clearly to your supporters. When trips are part of a larger discipleship journey, they become valuable not only for those being served but also for the transformation of those who participate.Still, we must be wise stewards of God's resources. Many trips could be more effective if better embedded in a long-term process of learning and partnership.Short-term missions, when done right, can become powerful instruments of healing and restoration. But they must begin with a correct understanding of poverty and a humble willingness to be shaped by the journey.For churches preparing for trips this summer, Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions is more than a resource—it's a reorientation of purpose.To explore Dr. Fikkert's work or find resources and group studies designed for churches, visit Chalmers.org.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I just bought a new SUV and was offered bi-weekly payments. Would it be advantageous to opt for this option over monthly payments to minimize interest?My mother passed away in October of last year, and my sister and I are going to sell her house probably next month. My question is, in Texas, there's no inheritance tax. But is there an inheritance tax federally?We have some friends who asked us to give them a letter of giftedness to help them buy a home. They're asking for $17,000, for which they have $17,000 in cash that they will exchange for our check immediately. We don't understand why they can't just use their own cash, and we're not sure if helping them would cause difficulties for us or them.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly MagazineThe Chalmers CenterHelping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions by Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett with Katie CasselberryWhen Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor... and Yourself by Steve Corbett and Brian FikkertWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

In a world overflowing with choices, allegiances, and competing voices, what does it mean to confess, "We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth"? This week, we explore the first article of the Nicene Creed and the invitation it offers us to re-anchor our lives in the one true God. Left to ourselves, we are prone to create idols, good things turned into ultimate things that eventually collapse under the weight of our hopes. But the Creed reminds us: there are not many powers to trust, only One, and He is enough. If you've ever felt scattered by the noise of modern life, or frustrated by the ways lesser allegiances have hollowed out much of the church's witness, you're not alone. This message offers both a warning and a hope: we don't have to keep building altars to things that can't save us. We can find our way back to the Source, the Sustainer, and the only Savior who will never fail. Join us as we uncover the grace, strength, and security that come from trusting the One and Only God.

Tired of maintaining a perfect image? In a world where authenticity seems rare, this message explores what genuine faith looks like beyond religious checklists and cultural Christianity.Discover the three marks of authentic Christianity from Colossians—faith in Jesus as both Savior and daily Sustainer, love that flows from the Spirit rather than selfish motives, and a kingdom mindset focused on God's eternal purposes.Learn why real faith isn't about what you do, but about yielding to God's work in you. Break free from performance-based spirituality and experience the freedom that comes from living authentically through surrender.

Sustainer's Banquet 2025

Sermons, April 2025, Psalms, Pastor Sean Northcraft

Dear listeners We are in sura 37 Alsafast/ Arranged in Rows الصافات Reflection :True success comes through sincere devotion, perseverance against opposition, and complete trust in God's plan — even when the path seems painful or unclear.The Lord of Glory and Honor guide us

Is it enough to champion biblical principles without knowing the God behind them? What happens when thousands of leaders—Christian and non-Christian alike—gather around biblical principles to reimagine the future of Western civilization? Today, Katherine Gallagher takes us behind the scenes of the rapidly growing Alliance for Responsible Citizenship (ARC) conference in London to find out. Founded by Jordan Peterson and others, ARC set itself up as an alternative to the World Economic Forum; ARC is tapping into a global hunger for truth, meaning, and renewal. But again, can principles alone bring lasting change without the Person behind them?Main TopicsPrinciples vs. Person – Exploring the tension between shared moral values and the need for spiritual transformation through ChristJordan Peterson's emphasis on self-sacrificial servant leadership but lack of open faith in the Sustainer of these virtuesBiblical principles work whether people acknowledge their divine source or notSustainable transformation requires both good ideas and changed heartsCultural or civilizational transformation requires both biblical ideas and transformed hearts; as Katherine put it, "Truth is a person, not just principles."View the transcript, leave comments, and check out recommended resources on the Episode Landing Page!Learn More about 10 Words to Heal Our Broken World

Did you know that every person and everything in creation comes from God and belongs to Him? He is the Father of ALL—even those who haven’t realized it yet. Though many live in spiritual blindness, sin, and delusion, their true identity in Christ has already been established by grace. The question is—will they awaken to this reality? John 1:3 declares: “All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him not even one thing came into being.” God’s relentless love and purpose embrace all creation, and His plan is to reconcile ALL things through Jesus Christ! In this powerful revelation, you’ll discover:
 * Why God is the Creator & Sustainer of ALL things (Colossians 1:16-17)
 * How ALL people are God’s children—whether they realize it or not (Malachi 2:10, Ephesians 3:14-15)
 * What it means for God to bring ALL THINGS together in Christ (Ephesians 1:9-10)
 * How to awaken to your true identity in Him
 * The power of reconciliation through Christ (2 Corinthians 5:18-19) Your inclusion in God’s love is already true OF you—now it’s time to awaken to it and experience it for yourself! What has partnering with God unlocked in your life? Share your stories in the comments, and let’s celebrate how He is working through us all! Don’t wait—click now and experience the breakthrough God has for you! Special Opportunity:
FREE “Protect Your Purpose Masterclass”: https://catherinetoon.com — don’t miss this chance to align with your God-given calling! Resources to Bless You: * "Marked by Love, Revised & Expanded Edition" (#1 Best Seller!): https://bit.ly/3UGeJBI * Get God, Male & Female? on Audible: https://amzn.to/49hzCIM * FREE “How to Hear God” eBook: https://bit.ly/3cTNb49 * FREE Chapter from Marked by Love: https://markedbylovebook.com/free-chapter/ * Explore more resources: https://catherinetoon.com Your support changes lives! Partner with us to spread this life-giving message. Your tax-deductible donations help reach more people: https://catherinetoon.com/support/. Stay Connected and Share God’s Love! * Facebook: @CatherineToonMD * Instagram: @catherinetoon * Twitter: @CatherineToonMD * YouTube: @CatherineToon, MD Like, Share, and Subscribe to support this message of hope. Every click helps spread God’s love to a hurting world. Thank you!

Your Nightly Prayer

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comJohn 6 Jesus feeds 5,000 people with five loaves and two fish. The people proclaim Him as the Prophet of God. They want to make Him king, so He withdraws to the mountains. His disciples then cross the sea to Capernaum. Several miles out, in high winds, Jesus walks to them on the water! He gets in the boat, and they are immediately at the land. The crowd from the previous day crosses the sea looking for Him. Jesus explains they come to be fed, but that He is the bread of life. All who digest His words will be raised on the last day and live forever! Sadly, many are confused and leave Him. But the twelve apostles remain saying, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” Jesus performs physical signs to validate spiritual messages. When He feeds the people, some think of Him as a source of physical blessings. But the miracle is simply to demonstrate that He is the Source and Sustainer of life. His nourishment is truth, love, and forgiveness. He fills us with His goodness and spiritual promises so our souls will never lack and will live forever! God gave Israel manna, but they died in the wilderness. God has given us Jesus so that we may live now, and forever after the final resurrection. Jesus' teaching is not always easy to understand or follow, but to whom shall we go? He is the Holy One and He has the words of eternal life.  Holy God, Your Son is a miracle worker. He feeds thousands. He walks on water. He calms the storm. It is not just what He does that draws us, but who He is. He is Your Son. He is the bread of spiritual and eternal life. He is the Prophet who promises a future and resurrection into the glory of heaven. He is everything to us. Lord, fill our hearts with thanksgiving and embolden our lives and lips to pronounce His majesty. When we struggle to understand, hold us close and help us learn to trust Him in all things. Thought Questions: -       Christians understand that following Jesus is about spiritual richness over physical provisions. How do you show that in your life? -        Jesus says to eat His body and drink His blood. In practical Christian terms, what does that look like in your walk of faith? -       When things got hard, many disciples left. What keeps you serving Jesus when His will is difficult to understand or follow?

Laws of nature?John MacDuffIsaiah 29:6. "In an instant, I, the Lord Almighty, will come against them with thunder and earthquake and great noise, with whirlwind and storm and consuming fire."Let us not dethrone and undeify the great Maker and Sustainer, by substituting for His sovereign rule, what are commonly called the laws of nature. Winds, and earthquakes, and tempests are not the capricious outbreaks of unregulated mechanical force. The world's vast machinery, with all its varied and intricate movements, is under God's supervision and control. "He holds the winds in His fists." "He gathers the waters in the hollow of His hand." "He makes the clouds His chariot." "He directs the snow to fall on the earth, and tells the rain to pour down." This offers a lesson of soothing consolation to many a stricken heart: That lightning which struck down my child was an arrow out of the quiver of God! That wave which swept him from the vessel's side; or that hurricane which overthrew my dwelling, and buried loved ones in the ruins, had their pathway marked out by God! He brings forth the lightning out of His treasuries! He gives the sea its decree! He walks on the wings of the wind! All things are subservient to the controlling will and purposes of the Most High God. "I am the Lord, and there is no other! I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster; I, the Lord, do all these things!" Isaiah 45:6-7

 Finding the Ultimate Trophy Wife. by  Sustainer. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories.  No matter what they may admit to, every man desires to have an obedient, submissive, beautiful trophy wife. Conversely, every woman secretly desires to be a perfect, subservient possession who is adored and cared for, objectified and kept captive while provided firm direction and absolved of all guilt surrounding sexual latitude- since her sexual conduct is no longer her choice, but rather, her solemn and sacred marriage duty. Every man wants this. Every woman secretly longs for this.Through luck and industry, I have become a wealthy man. This alone is infinitely attractive to women. No matter what they may claim or espouse, how much they assert their feminism or independence, a woman desires a wealthy man to provide for them and offer financial security. Other than my wealth, and my sexual appetite, I am an utterly unremarkable man. Some women, more than you may imagine, are willing to exchange their full sexual servitude in for financial security and social status. My wife is such a woman.I found her in a gentleman's club. An upscale topless club where young women danced on stage in lingerie and revealing costumes, performing exotic dance routines for assembled clients while revealing their breasts and stripping to a G-string. Following their performance, the young girls would circulate among the patrons, making small talk and soliciting private lap dances in a more private setting in the back rooms of the club for large tips. This was the perfect resource to find what I was looking for. Firstly, it acted as a kind of living catalog. Without the absurd constraints and antiquated conventions of “dating”, I could quickly review a large number of potential trophy wives before beginning the indoctrination into my marriage and trophy wife training and optimization program. I am a businessman, and as such, I admire efficiency and a well-run process. In advance of my trophy wife assessment and selection I consulted with a friend who is a marriage counselor and a behavioral psychologist. He holds a Ph.D. in training psychology. After describing my objectives to him in obtaining the ideal trophy wife, he and I worked together closely under contract for months to create an optimal, scientifically configured, trophy wife selection, indoctrination and training program. This included an ongoing maintenance and administration routine for my eventual trophy wife. Once our perfect trophy wife curriculum was developed, I simply went to various upscale gentleman's clubs to locate the very best trophy wife to my specific tastes and purposes. She must have brown hair and brown eyes. Round cheeks and a full face with a round nose. Preferably European in heritage. While her figure must fall within very specific parameters for hip measurement, leg length, buttocks shape, overall height and weight, her breast size and shape are not critical at intake since modern breast augmentation surgery means that any girl can have any breasts. Perfect breasts exactly to my liking would be an add-on at a specific phase of the acquisition and indoctrination process. In fact, consultation with the cosmetic surgeon who was already contracted to perform my prospective trophy wife's optimization had given me specific guidelines to look for in shopping for the right candidate. It was best to start with a young girl, 18-20, who was a 32 or 34 B cup bra size. This would be the perfect platform for creating a large, firm, high-breasted girl who would be a tailor-made 32-34DD cup after upgrade. After her work was completed, she would have large, firm, high breasts with dark, upturned nipples atop big areolae that puffed out from her tits in a constant state of erection and apparent arousal. Her hips should be full, her buttocks round, firm and elevated, her waist trim and narrow, tapering down from her curvy, reproductive hips. Her legs should be moderately long with adequately full, not too-skinny calves and healthy, firm thighs since stockings are a particular fetish of mine, among many others. The perfect selection would be free of tattoos and, in the best of worlds, have nipples that were already large and dark in color, symmetrical and outsized to her breast size so they would scale up nicely to her new, much larger breasts. Puffy nipples are the most desirable, but if all other pre-existing physical factors are excellent, my cosmetic surgeon told me about a procedure whereby nipples and areolae could be enlarged, darkened and made to protrude more to my liking. I personally inspected a young girl he had performed the puffy-nipple enhancement procedure on, and the results were remarkable. Once my selection criteria, recruiting and indoctrination processes were finalized, I went out looking. After several enjoyable weeks of shopping at local gentleman's clubs there was an epiphany. A young girl, 5'3" tall, long, brown hair, enormous brown eyes, swaying hips, round buttocks and the most beautiful face and button nose I had ever seen, sat in my lap and asked if I wanted a dance. It was impossible to refuse. I suspected immediately that I had found my quarry. She danced for me as I reclined in a lounge chair in a private room, swaying in the shadowy light to soft music, then straddling my lap, stripping off her sheer, lacy bra, grabbing my hands and placing them directly on her breasts. Then she began to gyrate on my swelling erection, clad only in a little, shiny black thong panty. She leaned forward, pressing her tits to me, and whispered in my ear, “Back here you can do almost anything you want. $100 a song Sir.” I felt her natural tits, and they were quite nice, likely a large “B” or “C” cup. An excellent starting point. Her hips were full and girlish, her buttocks spectacular and round, the skin smooth and even in tone from what I could see in this light. Her lips were large and I felt them on my neck when I leaned forward. Somewhat unusual for an exotic dancer to kiss a client on the neck. Her arms and legs were beautiful, her overall figure full and round. And that hair, my God, that beautiful mane of cascading, natural brown hair. Luxurious. The gentle grinding of her thin thong panty crotch on my erect cock inside my pants had me soaked in precum. After three songs, I grabbed her firmly beneath the arms and moved her slightly away from me. She had a slightly surprised expression, then smiled, “Enough?” she asked. “I have a proposition for you, young lady. Would you be willing to meet outside this club for dinner, for, perhaps, two or three hours? It would only be dinner and conversation, I assure you, in a public place. Nothing to risk. Everything to gain.” She made an overly quizzical expression. “Oh. A proposition? Ah. You know we aren't supposed to be doing that.” “Five thousand dollars for dinner young lady. And I buy your outfit for the night. No funny business. No sex. Nothing weird. You and I, dinner in a nice restaurant and a few hours of conversation. That's all. No risk. All reward. What do you say?” “Um. Sounds nice. Possibly. Maybe…” She cooed. She circled her thong-covered hips one more time on my lap, pressing down on my hard cock inside my pants extra hard. “You buy one more dance, and I'll think about it. But I need to know your real name. I'm going to check you out online before I decide. In the meantime, are your pants still getting tighter… and wetter? I'm soaked. My panties are almost soaked through. I'm going to have to go back and change after I'm done with you.” In Part 2, I make a unique proposal to the young lady “I am looking for a wife who will perform any and all sex acts with proficiency and enthusiasm at my command. This includes sharing and group sex, bondage, exhibitionism, oral, vaginal and anal sex along with other activities such as performing and appearing in pornographic videos and photographs for public distribution. In return for this arrangement, my wife will live in opulence and receive a generous stipend, along with other material benefits. After a systematic and exhaustive search for the best candidate to be my obedient, entirely promiscuous wife, you are my choice young lady.” This is what I would tell her tonight at dinner. In addition to a sumptuous dinner in a beautiful restaurant, this would be the offer on the table. It took some time, but the young girl I had found and selected agreed to my dinner invitation. Knowing that we act how we dress, I had provided her wardrobe for the night: a simple but elegant, snug-fitting black dress with a low neckline, a Frederick's of Hollywood Exxtreme Cleavage add-2 cup size push-up bra in black satin, a very small, sheer, black G-string panty, nude stay-up thigh-highs and delicate black, strappy, open-toe heels. There was also an elegant pearl necklace and earrings in the ensemble I provided to her. It was a simple outfit, but one that highly sexualized her in an elegant way. To complete her outfit, I included a crystal vial of Yves Saint Laurent Black Opium perfume, because no ensemble is complete without a treat for all of the senses- sight, touch, and smell. She received her wardrobe by courier two days before our dinner date. Dinner would be at a friend of mine's restaurant, a five-star place on the river downtown. I reserved the best table and paid the restaurant in advance to remove the two tables closest to us so we could speak candidly without being overheard. My new little whore was a vision when she stepped out of her Uber. She had cleaned up incredibly well, and the young lady put obvious effort into her appearance for our dinner meeting tonight. That was a promising sign. Her hair was in loose curls, cascading down her back in a bouncy mane of luxurious brunette. Her make-up was without flaw, understated and elegant. Her lipstick suggested a hint of drama, but was not too apparent. The pearls draped perfectly from her neck to her décolletage, and the little earrings added a well-coordinated finish to her beautiful presentation. I judged her sizes well. Her firm breasts heaved at the top of the snug, plunging little black dress. The black, add 2-cup-size 34C push-up bra I sent her looked opulent under this dress. Her delicious young cleavage was swollen, soft, round and smooth, bulging up and out of her neckline. I'm sure that tiny, snug little black sheer thong panty was just barely there underneath her dress and above her nude thigh-highs. As a dancer, she was no-doubt waxed smooth down there. This, of course, would remain my ongoing requirement, one of many to come. She looked absolutely magnificent. Better than I had hoped. She was beginning to seem even more like a fine candidate for a wife. I held the door, she stepped through. I couldn't help but notice her pretty little buttocks under the snug, little black dress. It was petite, high, protruding and firm. There was a noticeable sway to her alluring walk. Not a hint of panty line because of the little G-string I sent her. The satiny black fabric of the dress seemed to glide just slightly over her smooth, mostly nude skin underneath. She handled the high heels well for a young girl, no doubt a skill acquired in her profession. Good. Very promising. The hostess directed us to my table. My little candidate had the poise to stand politely while I pulled her chair out for her to be seated. This was an excellent sign. It meant she was somehow refined. How a little 18-year old topless dancer learned this poise, I had no idea, but it boded well. We sat near the huge window overlooking the river. Best seat in the restaurant. Most private too. “I hope you enjoy our dinner my dear, and our conversation. You are truly a vision tonight. You look magnificent. Everything fit well, I trust?” “It did. Not sure how you figured out my sizes so well, but even the shoes, and the other things… They all fit perfectly. Thank you. Ah, do I get to…” “Keep them?” I returned. “Yes. Am I supposed to keep all this?” “These items are yours young lady, for accepting my humble invitation. I appreciate it very much. It's a delight to be here with you. Truly. You look so beautiful. No one could make this ensemble look as alluring, and my tastes are very discriminating. Actually, you are much more beautiful here, tonight, than at your workplace. That says a lot.” She sat quietly for a moment, glanced down, then seemed to summon some resolve and looked up at me. “Thank you.” There was a noticeable lean forward in her posture suddenly. The waiter appeared at just that instant, introduced himself, took drink orders and left a list of appetizers to start the evening. His arrival quelled whatever it was she had leaned forward to ask. He stepped away. She began. “What is this about? I mean, why did you ask me out?” She was right to the point. Admirable. Suggests that perhaps others had dealt with her less than honestly. “I want to make a proposition to you. It is a significant one, and I wager it will take some time on your part to fully consider it, as well such a proposition should. Along with my proposition comes a plan. And a proposal. Literally.” She remained seated upright, but now looking at me with very wide, very brown, eyes. “I'm interested in recruiting a wife.” Silence hung in the air. Her posture frozen. Continuing to fix her wide eyes on me. I calmly reached for my water glass and sipped some Perrier. Let the comment hang in the now-heavy air. She reached for her glass, likely in awkward mimicry but also, I wager, because her mouth was suddenly dry. “I'm sorry My Dear. Let me explain further. I'm a busy, and systematic man. People say that I am very focused. I say that is normal, and all else is abnormal. When I set about a project, I make a deliberate plan. And I make lofty goals. Excellence in everything I do. Simplicity in my plans. And always, strict honesty and openness. Some people find this awkward.” I fixed my look on her, not glaring, but looking into her wide, brown eyes with sincerity. “Young lady, you are perfection. You are beautiful. Beautiful beyond description, and this is a magnificent gift. You are poised. I don't know how you've acquired this quality, but it is rare today. Especially for a young lady. In only the last fifteen minutes since our arrival tonight I've observed that in you. The way you stepped out of the car when you arrived. You let me open the door to the restaurant for you. Waited for me to do it. You stood politely and in a dignified manner while I pulled your chair out for you. I'm not sure where you learned these things, but they are valuable to me. Precious even. As valuable as your appearance, which, as I've said, is absolutely opulent.” She appeared to ease somewhat. Soften. But a learned cynicism and caution remained. I could see that. “So, I am looking for a wife. A beautiful, poised, submissive sexual servant wife. A devoted, capable and willing young lady to join me in life's finer things. Travel. Entertainment. And especially, sexual activities, a priority of mine. I'm interested in nearly every sexual activity. And I'd like you to join me in them if you find the terms of my proposal, and of course, myself, acceptable and to your agreement.” Her silence remained. She seemed frozen, taking all this in. I had expected that, so I decided to divert for a few moments and return the conversation to that of a simple dinner date. “But, enough of this business and life talk. Let's table my offer for now and simply enjoy the evening and try to get to know each other a little. That is, of course, the first step My Dear, and I am very thorough.” We placed an order for appetizers and drinks. Neither of us drank alcohol, another good sign. She appeared to relax some as the first course arrived and the conversation lightened. She began dancing at 18. Was going to turn 19 in six weeks. I noted her impending birthday. She revealed little, but ask many questions. Some were remarkably matrimonial, which was a good sign. She asked me about how I made a living. When the expanse of my ventures became apparent, she did well to not appear overly impressed, as though it was common to her. “Have you ever been married?” She asked. I told her I had been too busy building my businesses. I told her I never felt I was in a position to make an offer like I was proposing now, and that I knew it would be extraordinary to find a girl to agree to my terms without significant incentives. The conversation lapsed back to my offer. “Listen young lady, I know my offer is incredibly forward, very presumptuous- at least now it is, and you have almost no reason to take it seriously. I realize this, and I respect any cynicism. It is well founded in today's world.” She fumbled with a piece of shrimp on her plate, licked her beautifully polished finger, swigged some Perrier, and kept her huge, brown eyes on me as I spoke. “But, you must acknowledge the practicality of my offer. Consider the alternatives, in your future, your life. And, I intend to prove to you that my offer is authentic and trustworthy before you should even offer a response.” Silence from her. She dabbed the corner of her mouth with the napkin from her lap. For an eighteen-year-old girl, she was accomplished at keeping her cool, holding her cards close. “This is a lot to consider young lady. Allow me to make an interim suggestion. Think about my offer for a few days. If you would like to explore it further, completely without commitment or obligation, then join me on a holiday. Perhaps we can visit Thailand, a favorite of mine. Or, Sri Lanka. I know of a beautiful resort there with over-water bungalows. It's up to you. Perhaps you'd enjoy a week in Nice, France. Another favorite of mine. At the Hotel Negresco along the Promenade des Anglais. I know beautiful cafés there. If you love coffee, you'll love the breakfasts. And the bakeries.” The waiter returned with dinner menus. “Consider my offer during this upcoming week young lady, and let's enjoy our dinner. We have plenty of time to discuss the specifics. For tonight, let's just enjoy each other's company, my friend's wonderful dining and a beautiful evening, made all the more beautiful by you.” by Sustainer for Literotica .

In Week 2 of "Alive," our sermon series through the Book of Colossians, we dive deep into Colossians 1:15–23, exploring the unmatched supremacy of Jesus Christ. Discover how Christ is the image of the invisible God, the Creator and Sustainer of all things, and the head of the Church.We'll contrast biblical truth with Gnostic philosophies, pluralism, deism, and materialistic evolution, and highlight the full assurance we can have in:Who Christ Is – in relation to the Father, creation, and the ChurchWhat Christ Has Done – through the cross, reconciling all thingsWho We Are in Him – rooted, steadfast, and hopeful in the gospelIf you're seeking to grow in your faith, stand firm in the truth, and treasure Christ above all, this message is for you.For more sermons and worship music each week, be sure to subscribe to our channel so you can stay in the know. Feel free to share on social media and don't forget to comment below to tell us from where you are watching today!Invest in the mission and vision of Westside: https://westsidebaptist.org/giveFOLLOW Westside Baptist Church: ► Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/westsidegainesville► Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/westsidegainesville► Website | https://www.westsidebaptist.org

SUMMARY    “After the departure of some “disciples” of Jesus (not the “Twelve”) because of the offensive nature of Jesus's message (6:60), the Gospel continues to show the kind of responses the message and ministry of Jesus yields. Since the beginning of the Gospel, the narrative has been depicting the dramatic interaction between light and darkness, God and the world (1:5). In this section of Scripture, conflict is not far away but right at home, with the very people with whom Jesus should have found the most connection and support—his own family.” - Edward W. Klink KEY TAKEAWAYS    Main Idea: Jesus' faithful obedience to the Father is seen as He prioritizes God's mission and agenda over man's. Jesus embraces His true identity (1–5) He rejects the idea of being a religious celebrity  He does not want superficial faith, but faith in Him  Jesus prioritizes His Father's will, not ours (6–13) He fulfills the Father's divine appointments  He came to reveal truth and shine the light on the cynicism and fear of men

SUMMARY    “From the beginning of the Gospel, Jesus has been intimately connected to God (cf. 1:1), and the previous pericope gave a vivid demonstration of the unity of God and Jesus, the “I am” in the burning bush and on the sea. As much as this pericope completes the larger picture of chapter 6, it also propels the Gospel's narrative forward, forcing us to confront the person of Jesus as the fullness of God. Jesus has confessed dramatically His true identity; He will now challenge his interested followers to see if they are willing to accept him as He truly is.” Edward Klink KEY TAKEAWAYS   Main Idea: Jesus' offer of eternal life demands a response from us.   We can harden our hearts against Him (60-65)  We take offense at His Words  We don't see Jesus for who He truly is  We don't believe in the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit  We can come to know and trust the Holy One of God (67–69) We recognize His Words are the only source of life We surrender and submit ourselves to Him 

Our relationship with our Creator, Savior, and Sustainer is also one with our dad, our father. As we saw last time there is a natural respect we have for our earthly fathers, which translates to our Father in heaven. We add to that the fact He is King. Iconic photos exist of President Kennedy at the resolute desk in the white house with his small children playing in and around the president at work. Iconic photos of the president surrounded by his general staff during the Cuban Missile Crisis also exist.The contrast illustrates our conversations with our Savior, who is:"Just as a father has compassion on his children, So the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him. 14 For He Himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are but dust."Psalm 103:13-14And also:'Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. 10 'Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven.Matthew 6:9-10With 1 Chronicles 16:29 and Psalm 27:8 in mind, ourDevotional Meditation is:We are not forcing a formality in our conversation with God. Yet, He is the king of kings and the Lord of Lords. And he's our merciful Father, so it's only natural to engage our Father, the king. And remember, whatever the circumstance, we are not talking to him like we talk to our peers.Brethren, let's pray for one another."What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Or go to www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the Voice Over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 InstagramSeason 007Episode 027

THE SUSTAINER OF LIFEMATTHEW 14:22-33

I realize when we have episodes like our last one on Job being humbled by God, and I stress the need to come to Him in humility (I realize it because I have been asked) that I assert over and over that prayer is talking to God., so why stress our humble demeanor in prayer?Today, I use my loving, gentle, earthly dad as an example. As a great and open relationship we had, I did not talk to my dad like I talked to my peers. Not at all!So as we consider our earthy respect, and our close as it is relationship with our Holy Father:"Now the main point in what has been said is this: we have such a high priest, who has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, 2 a minister in the sanctuary, and in the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, not man."Hebrews 8:1-2"Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; 29 for our God is a consuming fire."Hebrews 12:28-29Our Devotional Meditation:Must be, Establish Thy word to Thy servant, As that which produces reverence for Thee."Psalm 119:38Approaching our Creator, Savior, and Sustainer with humble respect. Brethren, let's pray for one another."What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Or go to www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the Voice Over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 InstagramSeason 007Episode 025

SUMMARY    “From the beginning of the Gospel, Jesus has been intimately connected to God (cf. 1:1), and the previous pericope gave a vivid demonstration of the unity of God and Jesus, the “I am” in the burning bush and on the sea. As much as this pericope completes the larger picture of chapter 6, it also propels the Gospel's narrative forward, forcing us to confront the person of Jesus as the fullness of God. Jesus has confessed dramatically His true identity; He will now challenge his interested followers to see if they are willing to accept him as He truly is.” Edward Klink KEY TAKEAWAYS  Main Idea: Anyone who truly believes in Jesus will receive eternal life and spiritual transformation.  What does Jesus offer?  Jesus offers His life so that we can have eternal life (53–55, 57–58)  He offers His body and blood  He offers real bread and drink Jesus offers transformation for those who remain in Him (56) We are dead apart from Him We are filled with life when we partake of Him This new life is no longer physical but spiritual  

SUMMARY “From the beginning of the Gospel, Jesus has been intimately connected to God (cf. 1:1), and the previous pericope gave a vivid demonstration of the unity of God and Jesus, the “I am” in the burning bush and on the sea. As much as this pericope completes the larger picture of chapter 6, it also propels the Gospel's narrative forward, forcing us to confront the person of Jesus as the fullness of God. Jesus has confessed dramatically His true identity; He will now challenge his interested followers to see if they are willing to accept him as he truly is.” - Edward Klink KEY TAKEAWAYS    Main Idea: Jesus, as the Bread of Life, promises eternal life to those who believe in Him. What are the promises that Jesus makes?  The Promise of True Satisfaction (35) You shall not hunger You shall never thirst The Promise of Eternal Security (37–40) God will accomplish His work of Salvation God will preserve those who are His God will bring about a future reality The Promise of Eternal Life (41–51)  God gives eternal life to those who believe in Jesus  God gives eternal life to those who eat the living bread

Welcome back to In the Word with Malcolm Webber!The Son of God is the reason why creation exists at all, and why it is as it is. Jesus is the Creator, the Sustainer and the only ultimate Purpose of the universe! Find out more in the second part of Malcolm's message on Colossians 1:16-17, “Jesus: Creator, Sustainer, and Purpose of All Things.”In the Word with Malcolm Webber is a weekly podcast featuring selected teachings from Dr. Webber's over 40 years of ministry. Find more teachings, along with books, courses, tools, and other resources from Dr. Webber at our website.Related Resources from LeaderSource* Book: The Preeminence and All-Sufficiency of Jesus Christ* Audio Teaching: What Does It Mean to Abide in Christ?* For More Teaching on Common Errors: Malcolm's Musings* Email Course: Who Jesus Christ IsNew to the series? Start here:More messages from Malcolm: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadersource.substack.com

By Andrew Lee - While many in the world make promises to deliver people from their difficulties, in this upcoming Passover season, let's focus on how only God and Christ can truly deliver—and sustain—us.

There is an Enemy among us. You may know who he is, but you may not know what he is about. Do you know how he wages war? Do you know how he targets you specifically? He's the Villain who wants to change your story in the hopes you live isolated, powerless, discouraged, and defeated. Satan has waged a war with the Almighty, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, and his sole desire is to keep you from God's goodness. He knows that he has been defeated by Jesus' death and resurrection, but until the final battle when he is cast into hell for eternity, he and his demons roam the earth like a roaring lion looking for anyone to devour. He is far more disruptive to our lives than we realize, and it's time to take action. Therefore, in today’s conversation, Zach & Josh sit down with New York Times bestselling author, renowned speaker, and lead pastor of Harris Creek Baptist Church, Jonathan Pokluda, to unpack his newest book, Your Story Has a Villain to explore the tactics of Satan, equip you to overcome spiritual battles, and remind you of the victory already secured through Jesus. Remember, as Christ followers we must be aware of the enemy’s schemes, but we don’t have to be afraid, because as 1 John 4:4 reminds us, “greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.” Yes, your story has a villain, an unseen enemy disrupting your life more than you realize. But we must remember our hero is Jesus Christ, who came so that we may "have life, and have it to the full" (John 10:10). We know the grim, eternal outcome for Satan and his demons, but the battle still rages. So, the question that remains is, are you ready to fight back, find freedom from sin and toxic thinking, and walk in the abundant life available to you? Purchase a Copy of Your Story Has a Villain: https://shorturl.at/Th9nK Purchase a Copy of Your Story Has a Villain Bible Study Guide plus Streaming Video: https://shorturl.at/VnXAb Visit JP’s Website: https://www.jonathanpokluda.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Summary  “From the beginning of the Gospel, Jesus has been intimately connected to God (cf. 1:1), and the previous pericope gave a vivid demonstration of the unity of God and Jesus, the “I am” in the burning bush and on the sea. As much as this pericope completes the larger picture of chapter 6, it also propels the Gospel's narrative forward, forcing us to confront the person of Jesus as the fullness of God. Jesus has confessed dramatically His true identity; He will now challenge his interested followers to see if they are willing to accept him as he truly is.”  - Edward Klink Key Takeaways  Main Idea: Jesus, as the true bread of life, calls us to believe and pursue Him.  (1) Jesus is who we pursue and believe (15, 26–29) We set aside our agenda and pursue Him  We set aside temporary satisfaction for Him  We set aside our misguided pursuits and believe in Him  (2) Jesus demonstrates that He is the greater bread (30–33)  God is the giver of true bread  God provided Jesus to give eternal life 

Welcome back to In the Word with Malcolm Webber!The Son of God is the reason why creation exists at all, and why it is as it is. Jesus is the Creator, the Sustainer and the only ultimate Purpose of the universe! Find out more in the first part of Malcolm's message on Colossians 1:16-17, “Jesus: Creator, Sustainer, and Purpose of All Things.”In the Word with Malcolm Webber is a weekly podcast featuring selected teachings from Dr. Webber's over 40 years of ministry. Find more teachings, along with books, courses, tools, and other resources from Dr. Webber at our website.Related Resources from LeaderSource* Book: The Preeminence and All-Sufficiency of Jesus Christ* Audio Teaching: What Does It Mean to Abide in Christ?* For More Teaching on Common Errors: Malcolm's Musings* Email Course: Who Jesus Christ IsNew to the series? Start here:More messages from Malcolm: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadersource.substack.com

Derricke Gray teaches the Wednesday Night Bible study at River of Life, an inter-denominational, Spirit-filled church in the heart of Wakulla County, Florida. We share them for those determined to worship God in spirit and in truth.

Derricke Gray teaches the Wednesday Night Bible study at River of Life, an inter-denominational, Spirit-filled church in the heart of Wakulla County, Florida. We share them for those determined to worship God in spirit and in truth.

Following the miracle of feeding over 10,000 individuals, this section of the Gospel emphasizes how Jesus' presence, the great I AM,sciples' silences the di fears and calls them to receive Him.  Sermons at Brainerd North Georgia are preached by Pastor Paul Laso. For more information about Brainerd North Georgia -- Visit Brainerdbaptist.org 

In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony delve into Colossians 1:15–20, one of the most profound passages in the New Testament that highlights the supremacy and preeminence of Christ. They explore how this passage serves as a theological anchor, emphasizing Christ's role as Creator, Sustainer, and Reconciler of all things. By unpacking the rich doctrinal truths within this section of Scripture, the hosts show how Paul's words both exalt Christ and address the sufficiency of His work for salvation and reconciliation. The conversation begins by connecting the passage to Paul's broader purpose in Colossians—countering false teachings that diminish Christ's sufficiency. Jesse and Tony emphasize how this "Christological anthem" asserts Christ's universal relevance, not only as the Creator of the cosmos but also as the head of the Church and the source of reconciliation for all creation. They address the layered structure of the passage, reflecting on its poetic rhythm and theological depth, which together form a vivid picture of Christ's unparalleled authority and role in redemption. From understanding Christ as the image of the invisible God to unpacking what it means for Him to hold all things together, Jesse and Tony draw out practical implications for believers. They challenge listeners to reflect on how Christ's preeminence shapes their worship and daily lives and encourage a deeper engagement with Scripture as the ultimate revelation of God in Christ. Key Points: Christ as the Image of the Invisible God: The episode explores how Christ reveals the nature of God to humanity, making the invisible visible. He is the fullness of God in bodily form, perfectly representing the Father. Christ as Creator and Sustainer: Jesse and Tony highlight that all things—visible and invisible, earthly and heavenly—were created through Christ, for Christ, and are held together by Him. His sustaining power underlines His universal authority. Christ as Reconciler: The discussion emphasizes that through the blood of His cross, Christ reconciles all things to Himself, securing peace and restoring creation. This reconciliation highlights His sufficiency for salvation and the futility of seeking anything outside of Him. The Practical Implications of Christ's Supremacy: The hosts reflect on how Christ's preeminence demands our worship, shapes our understanding of salvation, and calls us to live in alignment with His lordship. Questions for Reflection: What does it mean for Christ to be the image of the invisible God, and how does this deepen your understanding of Him? How does recognizing Christ as Creator and Sustainer impact the way you view the world and your place in it? In what ways does the reconciliation achieved through Christ challenge or encourage you in your faith journey? How can the truth of Christ's preeminence shape your worship and daily life?

"Our responsibility is to be planted, to remain in good soil, and dig deep into the Source and Sustainer of life. Whether it is a job, a relationship, or a church, assess the soil. And when we recognize that our environment is unhealthy, the soil no longer has the nutrients we need to grow, and our fruit is not reflecting Jesus, it is time to be re-planted."Leave a comment for Simi: https://incourage.me/?p=251193--The spring issue of DaySpring's Everyday Faith magazine is here! Pick up a copy today on DaySpring.com or at your local Sam's Club, Costco, CVS, Walmart, or wherever you buy magazines. We hope that this issue helps you know and share God's love in fresh, true, and inspiring ways!The (in)courage podcast is brought to you by DaySpring. For over 50 years, DaySpring has created quality cards, books, and gifts that help you live your faith. Find out more at DaySpring.com.Connect with (in)courage: Facebook & Instagram for daily encouragement, videos, and more! Website for the (in)courage library, to meet our contributors, and to access the archives. Email us at incourage@dayspring.com. Leave a podcast review on Apple!

In this engaging conversation, John Winston Crowder III,  Bill Vanderbush I, and Jason Clark explore themes of universal reconciliation, the nature of God's love, and the purpose of preaching the gospel. They share personal stories and theological insights and discuss the importance of understanding salvation as a relationship with Jesus rather than a mere escape from hell.In this conversation, John, Bill, and Jason explore profound themes surrounding the incarnation of Christ, the process of deconstruction within the church, and the emergence of a new reformation. They discuss the cosmic nature of the incarnation, the awakening to our true identity in Christ, and the transformative power of grace.The dialogue also touches on the humorous side of life, illustrated through taco stories, of course, emphasizing the joy and lightness that can accompany deep theological discussions.For more on John CrowderWebsite: www.johncrowder.netFor more content like this, go to:https://afamilystory.org/Please rate, review, share, and SUBSCRIBE!Podcast intro and outro music by Wilde AssemblJoin A Family Story's Mailing Listhttps://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/e2f4i4Join Rethinking God with Tacos Facebook Group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/godandtacosFollow Rethinking God with Tacos on Instagram at:https://www.instagram.com/rethinkinggodwithtacos/Follow Jason's personal Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/afamilystory.org/Follow Jason on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/jasonclarkis/Follow Jason on X at: https://x.com/jasonclarkisSend a donation!! https://app.moonclerk.com/pay/36393kxxeh8

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comMatthew 21Jesus makes His final trip to Jerusalem before His death. He is honored and praised by many as He fulfills prophecy by riding in on a colt. Jesus goes into the temple and upsets the Jewish leaders by overturning the money tables and healing the lame and blind. The next day the leaders question Him, but they are silenced by His wisdom. He goes on to tell them two parables. The first is about two sons, one of whom said he would do good and then did not do it. This was an indictment of these chief priests and scribes. The second story is about vine growers who decide to kill the owner's son to seize his inheritance. This is a prophecy of what the Jews are planning to do to God's Son.  The contrast in this chapter is striking. So many followers worship Jesus as He enters the city. He heals many in the temple and they rejoice in Him. They believe in Him, and they will enjoy life in His kingdom. At the same time, the men in the temple are disrespecting the Father and have a fervent hatred for the Son. They question Him and seek to accuse Him. This same Jesus invokes two very different reactions. Sadly, Jesus knows they will not repent. He tells parables and quotes Scripture to indicate that the kingdom will be removed from them. Christ would be a rock of foundation for some and would crush others. They made their choice. Have you?  All powerful God, Creator, and Sustainer, thank you for sending Jesus to be our Savior and King. His message is strong and demanding. But Father, He is also the source of all grace and peace. So many in this world fight His teaching and seek to eliminate Him and seize their inheritance. Great God, may we forever forsake a life apart from Jesus. Help us to always stand upon the Rock and never be crushed by it. Father, will you lead us today to tell someone about the two paths of life and show them and teach them to choose Jesus?  Thought Questions:  -       If you were alive in Jesus' day, would you have laid your coat on the road and praised Him as He entered? How can that spirit be shown today? -       Jesus said His disciples could move mountains “if you have faith and do not doubt.” How can your prayer life show God you believe that? -       How can you avoid a hard heart that sees the evidence but simply will not believe it? Has Jesus convinced you of His Lordship?

Hiiiii GGB:)   this week's episode is with the incredible pastor, author, and preacher Jonathan Pokluda. Today, we dive into his new book, Your Story Has a Villain, which focuses on spiritual warfare.   Guys, Satan has waged a war against the Almighty, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. His sole desire is to keep you from God's goodness. Jonathan's book is an incredible resource for truly understanding the spiritual warfare we all face.   We love you so much. Jesus loves you more. -Ang & Ari   This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/girlsgonebible and get on your way to being your best self.   Upgrade your sleep with Miracle Made! Go to https://trymiracle.com/ggb and use the code GGB to claim your FREE 3 PIECE TOWEL SET and SAVE over 40% OFF.   JOIN US ON GGB+