Podcasts about thestruggleisreal

Many of us are oblivious to the fact that we are in an INVISIBLE STRUGGLE for our lives, our families, our finances, our kids, our marriages, our futures, for our nation, for our church…. And even though we can't see this spiritual struggle, #TheStruggleIsReal.

Despite the assurances from Paul that, as believers, we have been crucified, buried, and resurrected with Christ; that sin no longer has dominion over us, why is it that we, intuitively, think otherwise in our own minds.#TheStruggleIsReal

Hey girl! You may not believe it but you were meant to do more than just struggle to make it from one day to the next. In tonight's conversation Ms. Gnac and Jackie Ulmer discuss how to turn your life around and put yourself first.

I think we can all agree that technology is the best and worst thing ever created!!You will hear in this episode that we struggle to find the answers to created a good balance between life and technology. Listen to what we came up with and let us know if it works for you and your family. Also, if there's something that is currently working for you, please share it with us on our YouTube channel or on Instagram @The4SomePodcast

We can all agree that life happens! Well here is a quick update on what has been going on. Twitter- https://twitter.com/LetmeshowyoupodIG- https://www.instagram.com/letmeshowyousomethingpodcast/E-Mail- letmeshowyoupodcast@gmail.comSipNetwork- http://sipnet.us/

Join us this week as we talk #MalcomandMarie and #JudasandTheBlackMessiah in our The Thing About It segment. We dive into the struggles and hurt that are often associated with #BlackLove and #CivilRights and offer some tips on how we coped with our own struggles. Check out this week's episode to hear our thoughts

Pastor Rick Swan - Sermon for January 17, 2021. 2 Timothy 1:3-7. Part 3 of "#TheStruggleIsReal"

Thanks for listening! Be sure to like and subscribe for more from Sheep Among Wolves. Connect with us: www.sheepamongwolves.org MUSIC ATTRIBUTIONS: SAW INTRO - Bittersweet Season by Tristan Lohengrin | https://www.tristanlohengrin.fr Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/… SAW OUTRO - Pseudo by Alexander Nakarada | https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

This week Pastor Jermaine continued with our 1 Peter sermon series with Chapter 2: 11-17 under the title of: Tension #thestruggleisreal. In this section of Scripture, Peter is prescribing the Christians a response on what to do when they are criticized for their faith. As Christians, the world needs to see us living honorably; treating every human being, (regardless of their position, political affiliation, status, ethnicity and gender) with honor and dignity. We have to live from the understanding that above anything else, our allegiance is to the Kingdom of God and to Jesus as Lord. Submitting to and honoring our bodies of authority does not mean that we can not disagree with them, it simply means that HOW we disagree with them matters. Unlike the world around us, we can not simply write people off with labels. We need to be people who pray for our leadership and fight for unity in the context of relationship building. We must do better in honoring our governing authorities even when we are criticized and dishonored. We can do this because our identity is not in politics, but in Christ. Our freedom is rooted in our servanthood. It is not a freedom to do what we want, but a freedom to do as we ought.

If we aren't careful, all of us can fall into addictive behaviors. Whether it is a substance, food, porn, social media, etc., without the proper guardrails we all can fall into an addictive trap. How can we overcome the addictions we currently face? First Time? Fill out our Digital Connection Card and we will donate $2 on your behalf to the COAD Pop Up Food Pantry. www.impactchurchmd.com/new www.impactchurchmd.com

The most common mental illness in America is anxiety, with 40 million adults suffering from it. But are there ways that we are allowing ourselves to stay in our anxiety? First time? Let us know! www.impactchurchmd.com/new www.impactchurchmd.com

It can be hard to not feel depressed, especially today. With our current pandemic, social media, news, and more, a state of depression is easy to fall into. How do we get out of depression and help others when depressed? First time? Let us know! www.impactchurchmd.com/new www.impactchurchmd.com

Have you noticed how angry people have gotten? It is easier now than ever to be angry. There are a lot of reasons to be angry, so it is important to figure out what God wants us to do with our anger. First time? Let us know! Go to www.impactchurchmd.com/new www.impactchurchmd.com

It’s not just about being a mom, it’s about sharing your life with a partner that is ALL IN with you. Finding that special someone that has your back when you need them most.

When you pray and ask God to solve your problem, you usually have an answer in mind. You expect God to provide that solution that you thought of. God, in His unfathomable wisdom, answered your prayer in a different way. #TheStruggleIsReal because you refuse to accept it – at first. Then, you slowly realize that it was the perfect solution. You are emotionally and mentally stronger. You are better able to handle hardships that come your way. This is trusting God. This is what God desires from us.

Before this crisis, #TheStruggleIsReal because we had to wake up early to avoid traffic congestion. We had many deadlines to meet. We juggle quality time with our family and “me time.” God took all that away. God, in His grace, gave us the rest that we needed – physical, mental, and spiritual rest from the frantic pace of life. Now we see how many blessings we have, and how little others have. If we say that we want others to know the love of God too, show His love during this crisis by providing for their physical needs. Ask the church how you can do this.

No human relationship can meet all of your needs. Only Jesus truly satisfies, loves unconditionally, and will never abandon you!

#TheStruggleIsReal is foolish. As Christians, we are more than conquerors through Jesus. We no longer struggle, we win!!!

Temptation begins in our hearts, and the sin that results has consequences.

God’s plan for men and women is affected by sin, and all relationships are changed.

Don't get discouraged when the struggle gets real. God does His best work when we get real.

Pastor Dion Maeda

Pastor Ben Corkum

The start of a single moms struggle...its getting real. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/emily-sosebee/support

In this episode, I interview a fabulous working mom, Kerstin Alston, and we talk about the daycare struggles, our weak vaginas, and going hard when mommies play. Come laugh at motherhood with us! #thestruggleisreal Follow us at: @motherishpod @yessbailey   Follow Kerstin @islandsunrepros   Music by Credits:Written by Popovic Recorded and produced by Popovic / Vodovoz https://youtu.be/54sbvl4R8UM

When life is going well, it's easy to be #grateful and feel #blessed. But what about when #TheStruggleIsReal? A difficult job, a scary diagnosis, a challenging relationship⁠—so much harder to #GiveThanks.

A study of Psalm 86, learning how to handle the problems we face in life.

In this sermon, we focused on what God says about sex.

Well friends, we asked, and you answered. We're sharing ALL of our bookish problems in this new episode! What do you do when all your library holds come in at once? Want to read diversely, but don't know where to start? How do you push past the fear of annotating? How do you prioritize reading over responsibilities in life? Do you pick the new release or a backlist title for your next read? How do you get over reading slumps? We attempt to offer advice in this episode, and if we don't have advice, we at least share in declaring that #TheStruggleIsReal. It's so nice to be among other readers who GET. IT.  Books mentioned: The Raven King by Maggie Stiefvater The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon I'd Rather Be Reading by Anne Bogel The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie Diverse reading list mentioned:  ayearofreadingtheworld.com/thelist Follow us all over the internet! Website: https://www.nothankswerebooked.com/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/nothankswerebooked Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nothxwerebooked/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoThxWereBooked  

Often times there is unnecessary drama, firestorms and arguing in our seemingly good relationships. Unidentified boundaries that have been left to simmer into one hot mess of unmet expectations are the source. Some have a lifetime of them with those we love including ourselves. Linda and Gray jump in with you to discover yours, and teach you how to communicate them effectively so they are met with appreciation and understanding and are honored, making for the best relationships of your life.This show is broadcast live on every day at 6PM PT on K4HD - Hollywood Talk Radio (www.k4hd.com ) part of Talk 4 Radio (http://www.talk4radio.com/) on the Talk 4 Media Network (http://www.talk4media.com/)

The struggle is real but it's also necessary for our growth. Why do we have to struggle in order to grow? Listen to this podcast and learn "Why"!

The struggle is real but it's also necessary for our growth. Why do we have to struggle in order to grow? Listen to this podcast and learn "Why"!

Following Jesus on our spiritual Journey can bring seasons of life, joy and relief. However, no matter how far along we are, there are also seasons of struggle against sin. These can be so intense that we can be tempted to lose hope that freedom from those struggles are possible. Today, we are going to look at what the Bible says about what it means when a Christian struggles against sin and the hope we have as we face those moments.

Stress - Luke 10

Insecurities - Psalm 51:1-10

Distance - John 13

Jealousy - 1 Samuel 15 & 18

Pastor Jason Laird speaks on how real every struggle is.

This week Pastor Kevin continues in the series #thestruggleisreal by recognizing how we all have a desire to seek treasure, but we need to make sure we put in a place where we are going. Not a place where we are leaving.

Pastor Harald talks about the struggle of money and how doing money God's way can help your finances.

Pastor Harald talks about the struggle of marriage and how God's purpose and design can get our marriage back to what God desires and what is best for us.

Today Pastor Kevin talks about marriage and how messy it can be. He is teaching from Ephesians 5. Pastor Kevin challenges husbands to lead in a way that puts his wife's needs ahead of his own; He also challenges wives to show her husband respect by yielding to her husband's leadership.

Pastor Harald talks about the struggles of time and priorities. He discusses how to do life God's way and how this change will impact ourselves, our family, and others in our life.

Today Pastor Kevin continues our series The Struggle is Real. He is teaching about how we view Christianity. Sometimes our views are not what God says about Christianity.

Pastor Harald looks into fighting addictions and how to wage war in the battlefield of life.

Some next steps to take from today's message:READ: Ephesians 6:10-18 and Galatians 5:16-26 every day this weekASK: Lord, where in my life have I been believing a lie. What truth do you want to show me about who You are and how You see me? Sign up for the next SET FREE Retreat (October 20-21) You can register at https://mainstreetchurch.ca/set-free .

Today Pastor Kevin continues our series The Struggle is Real. He is teaching from Romans Chapter 7 and 8. He will be talking about Addiction and how for the Christian it is a voluntary slavery. He states that change doesn't come easy but through Christ, lasting change is possible from the inside out.

Life is hard. We know that living the way God has called us to live is different than our world may live. This morning we are talking about the struggle of parenting.

Hashtagnoun:hashtag; plural noun: hashtags(on social media sites) a word or phrase preceded by a hash or pound sign (#) and used to identify messages on a specific topicMillions of people add their voice to a sea of opinions through social media every day. If you want to know what is trending and what people are thinking just look at their #Hashtags. In this message series we are going to look at a few of the more popular #Hashtags and discover the spiritual lessons we can learn by looking at God's thoughts on what's trending.· SEPTEMBER 17 #SELFIE· SEPTEMBER 24 #NOFILTER· OCTOBER 8 #THESTRUGGLEISREAL· OCTOBER 15 #YOLO· OCTOBER 22 #FOLLOWME

We camp out this Sunday looking at Genesis 3, and how the fall affects us, and our identity in the world.

Often times there is unnecessary drama, firestorms and arguing in our seemingly good relationships. Unidentified boundaries that have been left to simmer into one hot mess of unmet expectations are the source. Some have a lifetime of them with those we love including ourselves. Linda and Gray jump in with you to discover yours, and teach you how to communicate them effectively so they are met with appreciation and understanding and are honored, making for the best relationships of your life.This show is broadcast live on Tuesday's at 8PM ET on W4WN Radio – The Women 4 Women Network (www.w4wn.com) part of Talk 4 Radio (http://www.talk4radio.com/) on the Talk 4 Media Network (http://www.talk4media.com/).

We get flat tires. We bomb the test. The kids write with permanent marker on the wall. We might jokingly post #TheStruggleisReal, but what happens when our world gets turned upside down? When our faith gets tested?

Building a team, take a seat, Am I good enough? Let me calm down. How can I make good roster? EXTENDING the OLIVE BRANCH

Pastor Kevin Queen

Often when walking in the footsteps of faith we find ourselves somewhere between a problem and a promise. Be encouraged by this word, #thestruggleisreal

Ezra Strickhouser preaches at Riverside Church through Colossians 1:24-29

New Life Christian Fellowship

#TheStruggleIsReal – Collide The post Collide appeared first on Faith Borger.

#TheStruggleIsReal – It’s Not the End of the World The post It’s Not the End of the World appeared first on Faith Borger.

#TheStruggleIsReal – Hope Fully The post Hope Fully appeared first on Faith Borger.

#TheStruggleIsReal – Distant Thunder The post Distant Thunder appeared first on Faith Borger.

CHAOS - #thestruggleisreal - Logan Mundt - 2.10.16 by Cedar Valley Students

#TheStruggleIsReal – Living Hope The post Living Hope appeared first on Faith Borger.

CHAOS - #thestruggleisreal - Nikki Britzman - 1.27.16 by Cedar Valley Students

CHAOS - #thestruggleisreal - Kelly Lantz - 1.13.16 by Cedar Valley Students

Tension: sense of conflict, or a pulling force The Tension Between CHURCH and CULTURE Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT) Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT) Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT) Jesus doesn't just offer eternal life… He offers eternal purpose. …upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. Matthew 16:18 (NLT) The local church is the hope of the world. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 (NIV) When we get comfortable in our faith, we begin to see the great commission not as a rescue mission… but a correction mission. Don't team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 (NLT) What harmony can there be between Christ and the devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever? And what union can there be between God's temple and idols? 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 (NLT)  For we are the temple of the living God. As God said: “I will live in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they will be my people. 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 (NLT) Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the Lord. 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 (NLT) Don't touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you. And I will be your Father, and you will be my sons and daughters says the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 (NLT) This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: “Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. Jeremiah 29:4-14 (NIV) Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. Jeremiah 29:4-14 (NIV) Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Jeremiah 29:4-14 (NIV) Yes, this is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let the prophets and diviners among you deceive you. Do not listen to the dreams you encourage them to have. They are prophesying lies to you in my name. I have not sent them,” declares the Lord. Jeremiah 29:4-14 (NIV) This is what the Lord says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place. Jeremiah 29:4-14 (NIV) For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:4-14 (NIV) Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity… Jeremiah 29:4-14 (NIV) Keep Jesus the Main Thing …Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:10 (NIV) We have to be willing to sacrifice preferences in the name of effectiveness. The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, Isaiah 61:1-4 (NIV)     to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, Isaiah 61:1-4 (NIV) to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. Isaiah 61:1-4 (NIV) They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. Isaiah 61:1-4 (NIV) They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations. Isaiah 61:1-4 (NIV) Fight the right battles A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. Ephesians 6:10-12 (NLT) For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:10-12 (NLT) “There is no competition between lighthouses.” – Roy Stockstill When don't win when we win arguments… we win when people see Jesus. Shine You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT) No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT) In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT) Lost people were drawn to Jesus… they should be drawn to us. Influence comes from association.   “Instead of cursing the darkness; try lighting a candle.” – Rich Wilkerson Jr.

Definition of Tension: Sense of conflict; a pulling force If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were rising against me, I could hide. But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship at the house of God, as we walked about among the worshipers. Psalm 55: 12- 14 (NIV) Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. 2 Timothy 2:22-26 (NIV) An offense is an event. Being offended is a choice. Stay off social media. Examine the vision for your life. Examine your expectations of other people. Examine your level of teachability. It's not about you! Examine your pride. Stop looking for it! Email ryan@freedom-church,org Know your rights!  The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered. Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues. An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and against all sound judgment starts quarrels. Fools find no pleasure in understanding, but delight in airing their own opinions. When wickedness comes, so does contempt, and with shame comes reproach.  The words of the mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing stream. Proverbs 17:27-28 – 18:4 (NIV) Here are three truths about offenses – (an event) It was wrong what they did to me What they did to me wounded me deeply What they did troubled me deeply Three myths of forgiveness: If I forgive, it means I wasn't really hurt If I forgive, I have to forget If I forgive, I have to act like it didn't happen Three truths about forgiveness: Forgiveness is a choice Forgiveness is a non-negotiable Forgiveness does not justify the event, but it does free you from it The practical steps: Get counseling Humble yourself and realize what you've been forgiven of Look at how Jesus responds to us Mark 11:25 says this: “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive your sins.”

Tension: sense of conflict, or a pulling force Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see… Hebrews 11:1-6 (NIV) And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:1-6 (NIV) Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NLT) And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NLT) We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NLT) Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NLT) “The Tension Between NOW and NEXT.” I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. Philippians 3:12-14 (NLT) No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, Philippians 3:12-14 (NLT) I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:12-14 (NLT) Now when Jesus returned, a crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him. Then a man named Jairus, a synagogue leader, came and fell at Jesus' feet, pleading with him to come to his house because his only daughter, a girl of about twelve, was dying. Luke 8:40-43 (NIV) As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him.  And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her. Luke 8:40-43 (NIV) Understand that where you are NOW is necessary for what is NEXT. It's easy to get frustrated with the NOW, not realizing what is happening now is setting us up for what God wants to do NEXT. His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 2 Peter 1:3-8 (NIV) Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. 2 Peter 1:3-8 (NIV) For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 2 Peter 1:3-8 (NIV) For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:3-8 (NIV) What God wants to do NEXT is always built on the foundation of what He wants you to LEARN now. …As Jesus went, the people pressed around him. Luke 8:42-44 (ESV) And there was a woman who had had a discharge of blood for twelve years, and though she had spent all her living on physicians, she could not be healed by anyone. Luke 8:42-44 (ESV) She came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, and immediately her discharge of blood ceased. Luke 8:42-44 (ESV) Understand what got you HERE, won't get you THERE. Yesterday's FAITH won't get you through today's FIGHT. “Who touched me?” Jesus asked. Luke 8:45-48 (NIV) When they all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you.” Luke 8:45-48 (NIV) But Jesus said, “Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.” Luke 8:45-48 (NIV) Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. Luke 8:45-48 (NIV) Then he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.” Luke 8:45-48 (NIV) Don't get stuck in the NOW… there is always a NEXT “Complacency kills growth.” – John Maxwell Don't be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. Galatians 6:7-9 (NLT)  Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. Galatians 6:7-9 (NLT) So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up. Galatians 6:7-9 (NLT) Our success in the NOW is not a finish line to celebrate, but a mile marker leading us to what is NEXT. Don't get discouraged in your NOW, when someone else reaches their NEXT. While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” he said. “Don't bother the teacher anymore.” Luke 8:49-55 (NIV) Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, “Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.” Luke 8:49-55 (NIV) When he arrived at the house of Jairus, he did not let anyone go in with him except Peter, John and James, and the child's father and mother. Luke 8:49-55 (NIV) Meanwhile, all the people were wailing and mourning for her. “Stop wailing,” Jesus said. “She is not dead but asleep.” They laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. Luke 8:49-55 (NIV) But he took her by the hand and said, “My child, get up!” Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat. Luke 8:49-55 (NIV) Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.  Ephesians 3:20 (NLT) …Lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. Ephesians 4:1 (NLT)

Tension: sense of conflict, or a pulling force For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2 Corinthians 5:1-10 (NIV) Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. 2 Corinthians 5:1-10 (NIV) For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. 2 Corinthians 5:1-10 (NIV) Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. For we live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:1-10 (NIV) So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. 2 Corinthians 5:1-10 (NIV) For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. 2 Corinthians 5:1-10 (NIV) “The Tension Between FAITH and FEELING” Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV) To follow Jesus… we have to walk by what we don't see. So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves. Galatians 5:16-17(NLT) The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. Galatians 5:16-17(NLT) These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. Galatians 5:16-17(NLT) I don't really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don't do it. Instead, I do what I hate. Romans 7:15-18 (NLT) But if I know that what I am doing is wrong, this shows that I agree that the law is good. 17 So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. Romans 7:15-18 (NLT) And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can't. Romans 7:15-18 (NLT) We don't belong to this world. “Once you had no identity as a people; now you are God's people. Once you received no mercy; now you have received God's mercy.” 1 Peter 2:10-11 (NLT) Dear friends, I warn you as “temporary residents and foreigners” to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls. Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. 1 Peter 2:10-11 (NLT) We are in this world… but not of it. Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 (NLT) We have a standard to follow. Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105 (NLT) All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT) God's voice will always line up with God's word. We can't trust our feelings Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God's right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. Colossians 3:1-10 (NLT) For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory. Colossians 3:1-10 (NLT) So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don't be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Colossians 3:1-10 (NLT) Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don't lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. Colossians 3:1-10 (NLT) Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. Colossians 3:1-10 (NLT) Choices lead; feelings follow. “It would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.” - C.S. Lewis We need God's power to manage it. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26 (NIV) The tension you feel is not stronger then the God you follow. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Galatians 5:24-25 (NLT) Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives. Galatians 5:24-25 (NLT) And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Romans 12:1-2 (NLT) Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:1-2 (NLT)

Tension: sense of conflict, or a pulling force “The tension between REALITY and ETERNITY” Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. Revelation 21:1-2 (NLT) I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God's home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. Revelation 21:3 (NLT) He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” Revelation 21:4 (NLT) And the one sitting on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new!” Revelation 21:5 (NLT) THIS is not all there is… we are ETERNAL beings and there is an ETERNITY waiting. For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. 2 Corinthians 5:4 (NIV)  Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. 2 Corinthians 5:5 (NIV) "You made us for yourself, O Lord and our heart is restless until it rests in you." - St. Augustine If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied. 1 Corinthians 15:19 (NIV) We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf… Hebrews 6:19-20 (NIV) See the invisible Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 2 Corinthians 4:16-17 (NIV) So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV) Shift your expectations Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture! But when the time of perfection comes, these partial things will become useless. 1 Corinthians 13:9-10 (NLT) When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. 1 Corinthians 13:11 (NLT) Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely. 1 Corinthians 13:12 (NLT) Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.1 Corinthians 13:13 (NLT) Let the pain point you; not paralyze you …It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. 1 Peter 1:3-4 (NLT) And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see. 1 Peter 1:5 (NLT) So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. 1 Peter 1:6-7 (NLT) So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. 1 Peter 1:7 (NLT) You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:8-9 (NLT) “When your heart is properly focused on the things that are to come instead of paralyzed by the hard and horrible things that you have had to handle, you are postured to be effective in the present…” – Levi Lusko (From his book “Through the Eyes of a Lion”) …to the degree that you cultivate your sense of longing for the next world, you will be able to combat the deadly hypnotizing pull of this one. ” – Levi Lusko (From his book “Through the Eyes of a Lion”) Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 2 Corinthians 4:16-17 (NIV) So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV) Embrace the journey… ALL of it. “What we do in life, echoes in eternity.”

In Week 2 of #TheStruggleIsReal, we take a look at how relationships can often be an idol in our life. And how even sometimes the pursuit of a relationship or the longing for romance can be an idol that distracts us from God.

SPOILER WARNINGS: If you do NOT want to hear any spoilers about the 1989 tour, please skip past the following times in the episode: 13:45-21:45 and 30:00-50:20 The 1989 tour continues and Taylor surprised us with the second special guest of the tour, Little Big Town in Pittsburgh! Nate and Steph were at that show and tell us all about it.Earlier in the week, Ashley, Nate and Adam went to the Louisville show where we got to have a Swiftcast booth outside the concert! We loved meeting and talking to fans from all over and got to do a bunch of brief fan interviews! We hope you enjoy listening to the interview clips. Make sure to follow us at twitter.com/swiftcast13 to hear when we have a booth at future 1989 shows.Throwback tweet: I swallowed a strand of my hair and now everything is ruined. -@taylorswift13 on June 9, 2014In the news: The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry named Taylor as the #1 Global Recording Artist for 2014!! #SwiftieProblems: When you wish Taylor would release the new versions of WANEGBT and IKYWT. #TheStruggleIsReal -via @VinnieCesaroneLots of recent fashion updates from Loft 89 and more!Thanks for listening! If you haven't already, please subscribe to us on iTunes and leave us a review and a 5 star rating.

This week the gang discusses their growing social media presence, pizza tech, bitcoin (Again -- sorry). Pete bores everyone with a discussion of gas prices and Bryan celebrates Pete's buzz-killing story-telling tendencies and delivers a new top 10.