Podcasts about theword

Delivered by Elyanne from the Parish of Saint James in the Diocese of Surabaya, Indonesia. 2 Timothy 3: 10-17; Rs psalm 119: 157.160.161.165.166.168; Mark 12: 35-37.THERELATIONSHIP BETWEEN JESUS CHRIST AND DAVID The theme for our meditation today is: TheRelationship between Jesus Christ and David. In one of His teachings, Jesusinvited the scribes to meditate deeply on the identity of the Messiah.According to them, the Messiah was the son of David, because he was indeed adescendant of King David. But Jesus asked a question that left them speechless:if the Messiah was only David's son, why did David himself call Him his"Lord"? This means that the Messiah was not only the human successorto David's throne, but He who had divine dignity. Jesus is the fleshlydescendant of David, but also the God that David himself looked forward to. Jesus actually showed that it is not enough to knowGod just by mastering religious knowledge. The scribes had a great deal ofknowledge of Scripture, but they failed to grasp the deepest meaning of theWord of God they were studying. They were amazed at Jesus' wisdom, but wereunable to accept the truth he proclaimed. Admiration alone is not enough tobecome a disciple. Faith requires humility to receive God's light. King David himself was an example of humility.Although he was a great and respected king, he acknowledged that the comingMessiah was far greater than he was. David did not make himself the center, butinstead set his sights on the God who would save His people. This attitude iswhat distinguishes the heart of a believer from a heart that only seeks respectand self-recognition. On the contrary, in Paul's letters we see a beautifulexample of a relationship between a teacher and a student. Paul guided Timothynot only by words, but also by living example. Timothy accepted that teachingwith faithfulness and obedience. Paul counseled him to hold fast to theteachings he had received and not to be easily influenced by misleadingteachings. Timothy believed in God working through Paul's guidance. The relationship between Paul and Timothy shows afaith that grows through companionship and faithfulness. It is not enough tojust hear God's Word or admire His preachers. We are called to live the truthwe have received. Timothy not only listened to Paul, but also practiced what hewas taught.  Today the Lord invites us to ask ourselves: do we onlyadmire Jesus, or do we really follow Him? Do we only know His teachings, or dowe try to apply them in our daily lives? May we have true humility as a sign oftrue faith.Letus pray. In the name of the Father ... O Lord, strengthen our faith in You sothat we may be a sign of Your presence and work in this world. Glory to theFather and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit... In the name of the Father ...

Today, as we come to Philippians 2:12-13, we move from theexample of Christ to the everyday experience of the Christian life. Paul hasjust shown us the humility and obedience of Jesus Christ. Now he tells us howthat same mind of Christ is to be lived out in us. Listen to these powerfulwords in verses 12 and 13: “Therefore, my beloved, as you have alwaysobeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work outyour own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you bothto will and to do for His good pleasure.” Theword “therefore” connects this passage to everything Paul has just saidabout Jesus Christ. Because Christ humbled Himself, obeyed the Father, and gaveHimself for us, we are now to live differently. Paul begins by calling thePhilippians “my beloved.” Oh, what tenderness and affection are found in thesewords from Paul. He loved these believers. Even from prison, his heart was withthem. Thenhe says, “As you have always obeyed.” Obedience is one of the clearestevidences of genuine salvation. Remember, Jesus said in John 14:15, “If youlove Me, keep My commandments.” My friend, true faith always bringsobedience into our lives. As you continue through this verse, Paul wanted theirobedience to continue whether he was present or absent. They were to live forthe approval of God, not for the approval of men. They were to live for thepleasure of God. That is a challenge for all of us today. Sometimes we do rightonly when others are watching. But mature Christianity is doing right when noone is watching because we know God is watching. ThenPaul gives this command: “Work out your own salvation with fear andtrembling.” Now this verse has often been misunderstood. Paul is not sayingthat we work for our salvation. Salvation is by grace through faith. Ephesians2:8-9 says, “For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not ofyourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast.” Paulis writing to believers who are already saved. The phrase “work out” meansto bring to completion, to carry something to its intended result. It was usedof working a field or mining out valuable ore. The idea is this: God has placedHis life within you, and now He wants that life expressed through you. Howimportant is this? Salvation is not merely something we possess; it issomething that transforms us daily. The Christian life is not about tryingharder in our own strength. It is about cooperating with what God has alreadyworked within us. Then Paul says we are to do this “with fear andtrembling.” That is not fear of losing our salvation. It is reverence, awe,and seriousness before a holy God. It is recognizing the incredible privilegeand responsibility of belonging to Jesus Christ.  Sowhy should we take the Christian life seriously? Verse 13 gives the answer: “Forit is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” Nowthis is an amazing truth. The Christian life is not merely imitation; it isincarnation. Christ lives in us through the Holy Spirit. God works in us beforeHe works through us. The word “works” here is related to the word fromwhich we get our English word “energy.” God energizes the believer fromwithin. He gives us the desire to obey Him and the power to obey Him.  Aswe look at this passage of Scripture, Philippians 2:13 reminds us that we arenever alone in the Christian life. God is actively at work within us. Maybetoday you feel weak, discouraged, or spiritually dry. Remember this: if youbelong to Jesus Christ, God has not abandoned you. He is still working in you.Sometimes His work is slow and hidden, but He never stops shaping His children.Like a sculptor chiseling stone, God patiently removes what does not belong inus, and He forms Christ within us. Remember Romans 8:29 says that we arepredestined “to be conformed to the image of His Son.” God's goal for our livesis to make us like Jesus Christ. 

This week, David Streitfeld takes us to Earthsea and the wonderful imagination of Ursula K. Le Guin; and Samantha Ellis on Charlotte Brontë's relationship with material reality.'The Word for World: The maps of Ursula K. Le Guin', edited by So Mayer and Sarah Shin'Searoad: Chronicles of Klatsand', by Ursula K. Le Guin'Ursula K. Le Guin's Book of Cats''So Far So Good: Final Poems: 2014-2018''A Larger Reality', edited by Conner Bouchard-Roberts'Charlotte Brontë's Life Through Clothes', by Eleanor HoughtonProduced by Charlotte Pardy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let this mind be in youwhich was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not considerit robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking theform of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. Todaywe're looking at Philippians 2:6, where Paul wrote, “Who, being in the formof God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God.” Yesterday inverse 5, we saw Paul's command: “Let this mind be in you.” We arelooking at the greatness of the One who perfectly lived that mind—that mindwhere “He did not cling to His own rights.” Today, we're talking about Christ'smind and the importance of understanding the deity of Jesus Christ.  Thisis one of the clearest declarations of the deity of Jesus Christ in the Bible.The word “form” means the very essence and nature of something. Jesuswas not merely like God—He is God. Jesus never became God. He always was God. John1:1 says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and theWord was God.” In verse 14, John said, “And the Word became flesh anddwelt among us,” speaking of Jesus Christ. Colossians1:15-17 declares that Jesus Christ created all things: “He is the image ofthe invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things werecreated that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible,whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things werecreated through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all thingsconsist.” What a powerful statement on the deity of Jesus Christ and Hiseternal being. Hebrews1:3 says, “The brightness of His glory and the express image of His person.”Jesus did not become God at Bethlehem or in the Virgin Mary. He was, andhas always been, eternally God the Son. Yet Paul says here that He “did notconsider it robbery to be equal with God.” The idea here is that Jesus did notselfishly cling to His divine privilege. Thinkabout it. The One who was worshiped by angels, the One seated in heavenlyglory, the Creator of the universe, willingly laid aside His rights to come andrescue sinners. Contrast that with Lucifer in Isaiah chapter 14, where we aretold that Lucifer said, “I will exalt my throne. I will be like the Most HighGod.”Pridesays, “I deserve more.”Pride says, “I want recognition.”Pride says, “I will promote myself.”ButJesus demonstrated just the opposite spirit. Adamand Eve grasped for equality with God in the garden. But Jesus, who already wasGod and possessed equality with God, released His privilege for our salvation. Oh,my friend, what humility. Here is the application for us today: What rights arewe clinging to?Theright to be appreciated.The right to be comforted.The right to always be understood.The right to win every argument.The right to have our preferences met. Myfriend, the mind of Jesus Christ says, “I will surrender my rights for the goodof others.” This is the heart of Christian maturity. In 1 Corinthians 10:24 weread, “Let no one seek his own, but each one the well-being of others.” Imaginewhat would happen if, in our homes, husbands and wives stopped fighting forpersonal rights and started serving one another. Imagine churches filled withbelievers saying, “How can I help?” instead of, “How can I be recognized?” Oh,my friend, this is the mind of Christ. Humility is not weakness. It is strengthunder control. Jesus could have remained in His heavenly glory, but love movedHim toward the cross. We must continually remind ourselves to examine any areaof our hearts where pride has taken root. Then, consciously surrender that areato Jesus Christ.Maybelet someone else have the last word today.Maybe give up recognition.Maybe quietly serve without needing any praise. Thatis Christlike thinking. May God help us to have this mind which was also inChrist Jesus. Godbless you and may you have a wonderful, wonderful day!

Thereis nothing more important than practicing the presence of the Lord and desiringto be in His presence on the holy hill. That is Mount Zion. That is where thetemple was. That is where God made known the glory of His presence among Hispeople. You dwelt in His presence there. Today, we can dwell in His presenceevery day. Asa matter of fact, the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. So what does“the fear of the Lord mean? It means being continuously aware of and consciousof the presence of the Lord in your life—24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Youknow He is there. As Brother Lawrence put it, you “practice His presence.” Thatis what David is asking here. Now,who can do that? Who has the right, the privilege, and the experience ofdwelling in the presence of the Lord? David begins to answer the question inverse 2: “He who walks uprightly, and works righteousness, and speaks thetruth in his heart.” Three things are mentioned right off the bat. First, “walkinguprightly”. Second, “working righteousness”, and “speaking thetruth in his heart”.  Lookat what he says: “He who walks uprightly.” This speaks of integrity. Itmeans a life that is sincere, genuine, and consistent—not perfect, but real. Theword “walk” reminds us that this is a daily lifestyle. Remember, God toldAbraham in Genesis 17:1: “Walk before Me blamelessly.” That is walkinguprightly. That is walking in the right direction following Jesus every day! Youfind this same truth mentioned in Psalm 23:3 “He leads me in paths ofrighteousness for His name's sake.” Righteousness is doing that which isright. So first, we walk with the Lord uprightly. We are cleansed of our sin.We are enjoying fellowship with Him. We are listening to His voice, payingattention to His Holy Spirit, and walking in obedience by faith. We areenjoying a life of experiencing God. We walk uprightly, and it shows forth tothe world around us. That is so important. Thenwe “work righteousness”. Now this is interesting. Righteousness is doingwhat is right. I will never forget, as a young Christian, hearing someone say: “Doright. Do right. Do right. If the stars fall from heaven, do right.” People havecome to me asking for counseling or advice on how to handle a certain situation,and my answer—because of how I have been influenced—is simply this: “Be aChristian. Be a Christian.” “Just do right!” Thatmeans you do right according to God's Word. It means you follow Jesus. You dowhat Jesus would do in that situation, my friend. The only way you can do thatis by first walking uprightly. You walk in the righteousness of Jesus Christ. Remember,our righteousness is as filthy rags. What we do on our own, without the HolySpirit helping us, guiding us, and directing us, “is as filthy rags”. Itmight impress people and make us feel good, but it actually stinks in the sightof God (Isaiah 64:6). Butmy friend, when we follow Jesus, when we are in love with Jesus, when we areenjoying His presence, when we have the fear of the Lord, and when we arewalking in a path that brings glory to His name, people can see the differencein our lives. That is a powerful thing. So our walk matches our profession whenwe walk uprightly. James 1:22 says: “But be doers of the word, and nothearers only, deceiving your own selves.” Abeliever who enjoys close fellowship with God seeks to obey the Lord. Oh, myfriend, that is not sinless perfection, but it is a heart that desiresholiness. May God help us to have that kind of heart. Let us continue over thenext few days looking at Psalm 15. I hope you will take time to memorize it tooand hide it in your heart, that you might not sin against the Lord.Godbless and may you have a wonderful, wonderful day!

 God desires that our lives producefruit. Taketime to read the entire chapter of John 15. It is in this chapter that Jesus isin the upper room with His disciples, and one of the things He speaks of thereis abiding in Him. If you abide in Him, He says that you will bear fruit. Inverse 5, “I am the vine, and you are the branches. He who abides in Me, andI in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” Inverse 8, He goes on to say, “By this My Father is glorified, that you bearmuch fruit; so you will be My disciples.” Then verse 16: “You didnot choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bearfruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Fatherin My name He may give you.” Wefind that the desire of the Father, the desire of Jesus Christ, is that weabide in Him and live a life that bears fruit—not just activity. So many of usbecome so active doing things for the Lord that we try to produce fruit by whatwe do. Activity is not the same as fruitfulness. We get so busy that weactually forget to take time to abide in Christ, to fellowship with Him, and toremember that our strength, grace, and power come from Him alone. Thisis real spiritual fruit. Remember Galatians 5:22: “The fruit of the Spiritis love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, meekness, kindness, temperance,self-control.” All these things—these are the fruit of the Spirit. Thefruit of the Spirit is something God produces within us. When we yieldourselves, when we are filled with the Holy Spirit, when we are filled with theWord of God, then we begin to see the fruit of the Spirit being produced in ourlives. Whatis the outward evidence of this fruit in our lives? It flows from an inwardrelationship with Christ. It is Christlike character. It is godly attitudes. Itis righteous activity. I cannot help but think of Psalm 23: “The Lord is myshepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leadsme beside the still waters.” Notice next: “He leads me in paths ofrighteousness for His name's sake.” Whenwe are following Jesus—our Shepherd, our Good Shepherd, our Great Shepherd, ourears are attuned to what He wants us to do. We are on mission with Him. We donot have our own agenda; we are His servants. We follow Him. We do what Hecommands us—to love one another, to love our neighbors as ourselves, and toshare with the world around us the wonderful good news of Jesus Christ. Thesefruits of righteousness, as you see in verse 11, “which are by JesusChrist.” Literally, it is the life that Christ is living in and through us.That is why Paul would later write, “I am crucified with Christ;nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me. And the life which Inow live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me andgave Himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). Thatbrings me to James 3:13–15. We have been talking about the wisdom of God thatis in Christ and the knowledge of God to know Him. James asks the question, “Whois wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that hisworks are done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy andself-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. Thiswisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, and demonic. Butwhere envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle,willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and withouthypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those whomake peace.” Myfriend, that is the wisdom that is from above. “If you lack wisdom”—James1:5—"let him ask of God”. It is yielding your life to Jesus Christand allowing His life to live through you, and you will live a life full of thefruits of righteousness. Help us, O God, to have that kind of life.

Christian; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST       Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZ Bio:Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZthe LORD is a Man or War, Exodus 15 

Christian; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST       Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZ Bio:Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Welcome to the latest Edition of Tarantino Speculation. The news and information series devoted to discussing and speculating on all the latest developments in the Tarantinoverse. Join the Reverend and his special guests Frank Hannen (Bachata Talk & Aventura's World Podcasta) and Heather Baxendale-Walsh (Word of Hell Mouth Podcats) as they dissect and discuss the biggest announcements in the Tarantinoverse from the beginning of 2026. So join in on the speculation and immerse yourself in the ever changing, chaotic world of the Tarantino fandom. SHOW NOTES: • Only What We Carry: https://deadline.com/2025/10/quentin-tarantino-simon-pegg-cast-in-only-what-we-carry-1236597119/ • One Spoon of Chocolate: https://deadline.com/2026/03/rza-quentin-tarantino-release-one-spoon-of-chocolate-1236751148/ Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYkhefDTiXk • Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair: https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2026/1/26/quentin-tarantinos-kill-bill-the-whole-bloody-affair-is-getting-a-4k-physical-media-release-in-2026 Boutique Talk Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?vfCDsqaX-E • The Adventures of Cliff Booth: https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2026/3/18/david-finchers-the-adventures-of-cliff-booth-sets-august-2026-release Teaser Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzZjVU3OUBw • Popinjay Cavalier: https://variety.com/2026/theater/global/quentin-tarantino-play-title-popinjay-cavalier-2027-west-end-debut-1236684451/ • Tarantino/Stallone 1930's Limited TV Series: https://www.tmz.com/2026/03/20/quentin-tarantino-partners-with-sly-stallone-for-new-series/   Frank Hannen: Follow Bachata Talk on the shows Socials: Facebook, Instagram & Twitter: @bachatatalk Listen to the Bachata Talk Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bachata-talk/id1626371650 Follow Aventura's World on the shows Socials: Facebook, Instagram & Twitter: @aventurapodcast Listen to the Aventura's World: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aventuras-world/id1733891852   Heather Baxendale-Walsh: Listen to theWord of Hell Mouth Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/word-of-hell-mouth/id1654712678 Listen to A Pod of Wings and Filth: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-pod-of-wings-and-filth/id1812628934 Follow HB Walsh on her Socials: Facebook: @HBaxWalsh Instagram: @H.B.WalshAuthor Website: www.heatherbaxendale.com   Become a member of The Church of Tarantino: Follow us on our socials: Facebook / Instagram / Threads/ Blue Sky & Letterboxd: @ChurchOfQTPod TikTok: @TheChurchofQT Email: TheChurchOfTarantino@gmail.com We're also on the Rabbit Hole Podcast Network: https://rabbitholepodcasts.com/the-church-of-tarantino/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Christian; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST       

Christian; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST         Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;        S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team  Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive Recovery F.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor  Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion  Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide  Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current. Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST         Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;        S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team  Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive Recovery F.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor  Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion  Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide  Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current. Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZthe LORD is a Man or War, Exodus 15 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST         Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;        S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team  Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive Recovery F.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor  Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion  Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide  Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current. Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZ GOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

In 2 Timothy 2:1, Paul toldhis son in the faith, Timothy, to “be strong in the grace that is in ChristJesus.” So I encourage you—be strong in grace. This grace comes throughhumility, through confession of sin, through recognizing every moment your needfor the Lord Jesus Christ and His blood to cleanse you, to help you, and togive you everything you need to be all that you should be for the glory of God.That is the grace of God—the unmerited favor of God. You do not deserve it, butyou come humbly, asking for it. And my friend, when you resist the devil, andhe will flee from you. ThenPaul goes on to say in verses 2-3, “The things that you have heard from meamong many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teachothers also. You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of JesusChrist.” Today, I want to encourage you to be a soldier who knows howto use the sword of the Spirit skillfully. You cannot use something skillfullyunless you practice with it. You must take time to read the Word, to study theWord, to memorize the Word, to apply the Word to your life, and to share itwith others. We also find that the Word of God helps us grow in the grace andknowledge of Jesus Christ. That growth happens as we remain in the Word of God. Anotherthing to remember is that the Word of God is what fuels reformation and revivalin our churches. Think of Martin Luther in the 1500s. It was the Word of God—“Thejust shall live by faith”—from the book of Romans that stirred his heart totake a stand against the heresies being taught by the church in his day. Ifthere is going to be reformation in the church, it will always come through theWord of God. The church has always been reformed and revived by God's Word—notby entertainment, not by cleverness, not by the trends of the day, but by Hisholy Word. It is always the Word of God, which brings transformation,reformation, and revival to our personal lives, our churches, our homes, andour nation! Sohow do we take up the sword? We take the helmet of salvation, and we take thesword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. You must pick it up. You mustchoose to use it. You must carry it. You do that by reading God's Worddaily—every day (Matthew 4:4). You study the Word carefully. As you read, youask questions: What does this mean? What is the context? What is God saying?How does this apply to my life today? Youmemorize the Word, as we have discussed. You speak the Word out loud in faith.We read in Mark 11:23-24, that whatever you say in faith, believing, you willreceive. That happens when you are praying the Word and the promises of Godback to Him. Oh, how important that is. Then you obey the Word. You are notlike a man building his life on sand; you are building on the foundation of theWord of God. Why? Because Jesus said the wise man is the one who hears Hiswords and does them (Matthew 7:24-27). Myfriend, let me give you a final of encouragement today from this passage inEphesians 6:10-17: You do not have to live a defeated life. You do not have tobe confused. You do not have to be tossed about by your feelings. God has givenus everything we need to stand—the whole armor of God. And as we conclude withthe offensive weapon, the sword of the Spirit, we are reminded again of itspower. Take it up. Open your Bible. Believe what God says. Use the Word tofight temptation. Use the Word to resist lies. Use the Word to encourage others.Use the Word to witness and tell others who Jesus is. Most of all, use the Wordof God in prayer. Spend time in prayer. We will see in the next verses theimportance of prayer connected to the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word ofGod. Myfriend, Satan cannot defeat you when you are standing armed in God's Word. Howwonderful that is—because he is dealing with a soldier who is equipped. So,take up the Word of God, the sword of the Spirit and by the grace that is givenyou in Christ Jesus.

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

When Satan casts a fiery dart atus, the sword can be used defensively to deflect that dart with God's HolyWord. But it is also offensive—it can strike the enemy. Think about this: whenyou use the Word of God, you can defend yourself against temptation. But youcan also attack Satan's kingdom by preaching the Gospel, witnessing to thelost, and teaching the truth. My friend, every time a person is saved through theWord of God, the sword of the Spirit has cut through into the kingdom ofdarkness. I'llnever forget hearing a story years ago about an atheist who was being witnessedto by a believer. The believer kept trying to talk with him about the Lord.Finally, the atheist said, “Get out of here. Leave me alone. I don't want tohear any more Scripture. I don't want to hear any more of the Word. Just leaveme alone. Get out.” The Christian replied, “I just want to leave you with onethought: Luke 13:3 says, ‘Unless you repent you will all likewise perish.'” Theatheist said, “I told you I don't want to hear it. I don't believe in God orthe Bible! Get out of here!” The Christian said, “Just one more time—Luke 13:3:‘Unless you repent you will all likewise perish.'” As the Christian waswalking away, the atheist shouted again, “Get away from me!” And the believerresponded one last time, “Unless you repent, you will perish.” The nextday, as the story goes, the atheist called that believer and said, “Would youplease come talk to me about getting saved? All night long all I kept hearingwas, ‘Unless you repent, you will perish.' I don't want to perish.” Andhe gave his heart to Christ. People may brush aside your testimony, but the Word of God is “alive andpowerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12).  Weneed to always remember that the Word of God is the best weapon—the greatestweapon—for every need we have! I love what Paul says in 2 Corinthians 10:3. Hereminds us, “Though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to theflesh.” And in verse 4 he continues, “For the weapons of our warfare arenot carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting downarguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God,bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.”  TheWord of God helps us in every season of life. Do you feel downhearted? Have you beendiscouraged or even depressed? I'll never forget a lady calling just before Iwas about to preach on a Sunday night—back in the old days when all we had werelandlines in the church. There were no cell phones. She said, “I'm verydiscouraged. I need to talk to the pastor.” I picked up the phone briefly andsaid hello. She said, “I'm discouraged. I think I'm suicidal. I need help.” Isaid, “Ma'am, I want you to do something. Start reading the book of Psalmsright now. Just read the Psalms. As soon as this service is over, I'll call youback.” I'll never forget it. After the service, I called her back. She said,“I've been reading the Psalms, and guess what? I already feel so different.Thank you so much for helping me.” I didn't do anything. It was the Word of Godthat encouraged her. AWord for the downhearted and discouraged: Jeremiah 15:16 says, “Your Wordswere found, and I ate them, and Your Word was to me the joy and rejoicing of myheart; for I am called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts.” Psalm 119:105says, “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm119:9 asks, “How can a young man cleanse his way?” And it answers, “Bytaking heed according to Your Word.” Do you feel empty? Do you feel weak? Matthew4:4 reminds us, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word thatproceeds from the mouth of God.” Whenyou have that intake of God's Word, you will discover it is not merelyinformation. It is nourishment. It is light. It is strength. It is direction. Itwill help you face every problem, every difficulty, every challenge of everyday—no matter how it comes. 

Understandthis clearly: Satan did not quote God's Word completely. And he did not quoteit correctly or in its proper context. My friend, Satan is not afraid when youquote Scripture—especially if you do not understand it. He is not intimidatedwhen you use verses out of context, perhaps just to make yourself feel betterabout what you are doing. Overthe years, as a pastor, I have seen many people do exactly that when they wereconfronted with some sin in their life. They would say, “It must be okay,because the Bible says….” I'll never forget in my early days as a pastor I wasasked to meet with a family late one night and talk to the wife who wascommitting adultery. When we lovingly confronted her, she actually said, “Godsaid in the Bible that you're supposed to love everybody. I love my husband,and I love this other person too.” Wow! You almost can't imagine how cansomeone quote Scripture out of context like that and come up with such aconclusion? But it literally happened. That is why we must learn to use theWord of God carefully, rightly, and accurately. Thatis also why Paul told Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:15, “Study to show yourselfapproved unto God, rightly dividing the Word of truth.” That is veryimportant. Again, Paul says in Ephesians 6:17, “the sword of the Spirit, whichis the Word of God.” Make sure you rightly know it and correctly apply it! Thereis something else very powerful in this verse. When Paul speaks of “the swordof the Spirit, which is the Word of God,” he is referring to a specific wordfor a specific battle. This is an important point to understand.InEphesians 6:17, Paul does not use the Greek word logos, which oftenrefers to the Word of God in general. Instead, he uses the word rhema,which refers to a specific saying, a particular word spoken for a particularsituation. Why is that important? Because when Satan attacks you, you do notjust need general Bible knowledge. You need specific truth for specific lies. Forexample, when Satan says, “God doesn't love you,” you can answer with Romans5:8: “But God commended His love toward us, in that, while we were yetsinners, Christ died for us.” Or you might answer with 1 John 4:9–10: “Inthis the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His onlybegotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love,not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be thepropitiation for our sins.” Quote that Scripture back when the devil saysGod does not love you. WhenSatan says, “You've gone too far,” answer with 1 John 1:9: “If we confessour sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us fromall unrighteousness.” When Satan says, “You're not really saved,” answerwith John 10:28, where Jesus said, “I give unto them eternal life, and theyshall never perish.”Yoursalvation is not based on what you do. It is based on what Jesus has alreadydone for you. Onepassage that I memorized as a brand-new Christian, when Satan attacked me withthat very lie, was Romans 8:35–39. The Apostle Paul wrote: “Who shallseparate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, orpersecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written:‘For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for theslaughter.' Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him wholoved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels norprincipalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor heightnor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from thelove of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Myfriend, make sure you use a specific Word to answer a specific attack ofSatan. When you do, you are taking up the sword of the Spirit exactly as Godintended—and He will protect you in that moment.

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST         Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;        S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team  Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive Recovery F.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor  Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion  Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide  Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current. Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZ GOD Provides JESUS Savesthe LORD is a Man or War, Exodus 15 

Todaywe're continuing to look at Ephesians 6:16. This verse is so important that weneed to spend a little more time on it. We're talking about: “Above all,above all, take up the shield of faith with which we will be able to quench allthe fiery darts of the wicked one.” We need to remember, as we've saidalready, that the shield of faith is that connection you and I have with theWord of God. I'llnever forget back in 1985 or '86, I took the time to memorize Psalm 119. It's along psalm—about 176 verses. I remember verses like, “Thy word have I hid inmine heart that I might not sin against You” (v. 11). “Thy word is a lamp to myfeet and a light to my path” (v. 105). His Word is our shield of protection.Todaywe're talking about those fiery darts of the wicked one. Paul says that thisshield enables us to quench those darts—all of them, every one of them. InPaul's day, the soldiers would dip arrows in pitch, set them on fire, and shootthem into the enemy. These arrows did not just pierce; they burned. They couldignite clothing, spread fire, and create chaos. Satan still uses his fierydarts today. He shoots darts into our minds and into our hearts. I'm convincedthat the fiery darts of the evil one are thoughts that he is able to shoot intoour minds—into our thought life. ·        Thesefiery darts are lies—lies from the evil one. Remember, he is a liar. He is thefather of lies. He wants you to believe his lies. He has come to kill, tosteal, and to destroy. He does it with deceitful lies.·        Theyare doubts. He causes us to doubt the truth and goodness of God. ·        Hegives us blasphemous thoughts. He wants us to think terrible things. They justfly into your mind. They come out of nowhere. You wonder, “Where did that comefrom?”·        Fearand despair are a major fiery dart of the evil one. He throws fear into yourheart. He makes you look at things in fear instead of looking at them withfaith. Then he causes you to doubt.·        Hesends hatred and bitterness, and thoughts like, “I'm going to get even. Thatshouldn't have happened to me. That's not fair.” Thoughts of hatred come intoyour mind: “I hate that person. They have hurt me. They've given me greatpain.”·        Oneof the great fiery darts of the evil one is pride and envy. It makes us thinkwe deserve more: “I'm better than everyone else. I want what everyone else has.I'm entitled.” Boy, how we have that problem today.·        Thenthere are the burning temptations of sin: “If you'll do this, this will makeyou feel so good. If you have that money, I know you'll have to cheat a littlebit. You'll have to lie on your income tax return, but you can get a little bitmore.” He wants you to be tempted to sin—to have more, to have pleasure. Thosetemptations are the thoughts he puts in your mind. Someone said,  “You can't help when a bird flies over yourhead, but you can do something about it when it begins to build a nest in yourhair.” You can't help these temptations. They are the darts of the evil one. Ifthese darts are not quenched, they'll light a fire within us until we begin tojustify sin, believe a lie, or doubt the goodness of God. That's why Paul sayswe must take up the shield of faith. Today I'm simply taking time to remind usthat the shield of faith will quench all the fiery darts. Those fiery dartscome in a whole lot of ways—from the evil one himself and from the temptationsin the world around us. They are thoughts that, if we do not deal with them andquench them, will leave us burning with sin, and we will be sorry later. MayGod help us to pay attention, making sure that we are connected to God's holyWord. Take time to memorize a lot of verses. Put one on your schedule each daythat you will put in your mind instead of the lies and doubts and fears ofSatan he shoots at you with his fiery darts.

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS Savesthe LORD is a Man or War, Exodus 15 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day This episode includes AI-generated content.

On the run from a bank robbery that left several police officers dead, Seth Gecko and his paranoid, loose cannon brother Richie, hightail it to the Mexican border. Kidnapping preacher Jacob Fuller and his kids, the criminals sneak across the border in the family's RV and hole up in a topless bar. Unfortunately, the bar also happens to be home base for a gang of vampires, forcing the brothers and their hostages to have to fight their way out. Miramax Films and The Church of Tarantino Podcast presents the From Dusk Till Dawn 30th Anniversary Celebration. When Dusk turns to Dawn will anyone be alive? Show Notes: Heather Baxendale-Walsh: Listen to theWord of Hell Mouth Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/word-of-hell-mouth/id1654712678 Listen to A Pod of Wings and Filth: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-pod-of-wings-and-filth/id1812628934 Follow HB Walsh on her Socials: Facebook: @HBaxWalsh Instagram: @H.B.WalshAuthor Website: www.heatherbaxendale.com   Jay Cluitt: Listen to the Deep Blue Sea Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deep-blue-sea-the-podcast/id1522738259 Follow them on their Socials: Instagram: @deepblueseapod   Neal Damiano: Listen to the Retro Film Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-retro-film-podcast/id1838122182 Follow him on his socials: Facebook: @Neal.Damiano Instagram: @Neal_Damiano_ Twitter/X: @Nealreviews1 Neal's reviews for and Top 10 lists on Top 10 Films website: https://www.top10films.co.uk/contributors/neal-damiano/ Neal's reviews on Word Press: ⁠⁠nealreviews1.wordpress.com   Become a member of The Church of Tarantino: Follow us on our socials: Facebook / Instagram / Threads/ Blue Sky & Letterboxd: @ChurchOfQTPod TikTok: @TheChurchofQT Email: TheChurchOfTarantino@gmail.com We're also on the Rabbit Hole Podcast Network: https://rabbitholepodcasts.com/the-church-of-tarantino/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST         Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;        S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team  Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive Recovery F.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor  Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion  Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide  Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current. Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZ GOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Todaywe come to the closing verses of Ephesians 5:29-33. In these verses, theApostle Paul lifts our understanding of marriage to its highest level byshowing us that the Christian home is meant to be a living picture of Christ'srelationship to His church. Paul reminds us that no one ever hates his ownflesh, but nourishes and cherishes it—and then he adds these important words—“justas the Lord does the church.” Christ cares for His people tenderly andfaithfully. He nourishes them, protects them, and provides for them. Paul saysthis is the pattern for marriage. Eachbeliever is a member of Christ's body, and each believer is to help nourish thebody in love (Eph. 4:16). We are one with Christ. The church is His body andHis bride, and the Christian home is a divinely ordained illustration of thisrelationship. This certainly makes marriage a serious matter. Paulreferred to the creation of Eve and the forming of the first home (Gen.2:18-24). Adam had to give part of himself in order to get a bride, but Christgave all of Himself to purchase His bride at the cross. God opened Adam's side,but sinful men pierced Christ's side. So united are a husband and wife thatthey are "one flesh." Their union is even closer than that of parentsand children. The believer's union with Christ is even closer and, unlike humanmarriage, will last for all eternity. Paul closed with a final admonition thatthe husband love his wife and that the wife reverence (respect) her husband,all of which require the power of the Holy Spirit. IfChristian husbands and wives have the power of the Spirit to enable them, andthe example of Christ to encourage them, why do too many Christian marriagesfail? Somebody is out of the will of God. Just because two Christians know eachother and get along together does not mean they are supposed to get married. Infact, not every believer is supposed to marry. It is sometimes God's will for aChristian to remain single (Matt. 19:12; 1 Cor. 7:7-9). It is wrong for abeliever to marry an unbeliever, but it is also wrong for two Christians tomarry out of the will of God. Buteven if two Christians marry in the will of God, they must stay in God's willif their home is to be the creative fellowship God wants it to be. "Thefruit of the Spirit is love" (Gal. 5:22), and unless both husband andwife are walking in the Spirit they cannot share the love of Christ, the lovethat is so beautifully described in 1 Corinthians 13. The root of most maritalproblems is sin, and the root of all sin is selfishness. Submission to Christand to one another is the only way to overcome selfishness, for when we submit,the Holy Spirit can fill us and enable us to love one another in a sacrificial,sanctifying, satisfying way—the way Christ loves the church. Toexperience the fullness of the Spirit a person must first possess the Spirit—bea Christian. Then there must be a sincere desire to glorify Christ, since thisis why the Holy Spirit was given (John 16:14). We do not use the Holy Spirit;He uses us. There must be a deep thirst for God's fullness, a confession thatwe cannot do His will apart from His power. Byfaith yield yourself to Christ; by faith ask Him for the fullness of theSpirit. By faith receive. When you find yourself joyful, thankful, andsubmissive, you will know that God has answered. Onemore important factor should be considered. The Spirit of God uses the Word ofGod to work in our lives. Read Colossians 3:16-4:1, and you will note that to be filled with the Word ofGod produces joy, thanksgiving, and submission. In other words, when you arecontrolled by the Word of God, you are filled with the Spirit of God. Not onlyhusbands and wives, but all Christians need to spend time daily letting theWord of Christ dwell in them richly, for then the Spirit of God can work in ourlives to make us joyful, thankful, and submissive. And this means heaven in thehome—or wherever God may put us. 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST         Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;        S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team  Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive Recovery F.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor  Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion  Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide  Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current. Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZ GOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Keith Miller Meadowbrooke Church January 25, 2026 Behold Our Great God Revelation 1:1-8 Introduction In a world that exalts earthly power and demands allegiance, the book of Revelation pulls back the curtain and shows us the true throne of heaven. It calls Gods people to place their hope and loyalty not in the rulers of this age, but in Jesus Christthe One who governs history and alone deserves our allegiance. To grasp Revelation rightly, we must consider the circumstances in which it was given. Most scholars agree that the book was written near the end of the first century, likely between AD 90 and 95, during the reign of the Roman emperor Domitian. John tells us that he received this revelation while exiled on the island of Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus (Rev. 1:9). His exile was not a voluntary retreat, but punishment for unwavering faithfulness to Christ. John had lived a long and costly life of discipleship. He had outlived the other apostles, witnessed the rise and fall of emperors, and seen friends and fellow believers martyred for their allegiance to Jesus. He had watched the brutality of Rome unleashedmost notably in the devastation of Jerusalemand he had seen firsthand what happens when earthly powers claim absolute authority. Long before Romes pressure intensified, many Jewish believers in Jesus had already been pushed out of their own communitiesexcluded from synagogues, cut off from family life, and treated as apostates rather than brothers. Faithfulness to Christ often meant losing ones religious home before ever confronting the power of the empire. By the time John was exiled, the pressure on the church had intensified. Under Domitian, emperor worship became a test of loyalty, especially in Asia Minor. For most citizens, participation was routine. For Christians, it was a crisis. To confess Jesus is Lord was to deny Caesar that title, and refusal could lead to social exclusion, economic loss, exile, or worse. This was not a moment of widespread slaughter, but of steady compromise. Christians were not being asked, Will you die for Christ today? They were being asked, Will you bendjust a little? It is into this world that Revelation was given. The very wordrevelationmeans unveiling. God is not hiding His purposes; He is revealing them. This book was written to a pressured church to show who truly reigns, how history is moving, and why faithfulness to Jesus is always worth the cost. And that is where Revelation begins. Behold the Blessing (vv. 1-3) When it comes to Revelation, the book is notRevelations. It is not a series of secret disclosures reserved for the most skilled students of prophetic Scripture. It is not a collection of clues designed to help us identify the next antichristespecially since we are told that many antichrists have already come. It is also not a puzzle to figure out the timing of Christs return, for Jesus even said, But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only (Matt. 24:36). Revelation isarevelationbut more precisely, it isthe Revelation of Jesus Christ. That is how the book begins, and that is what the book is about. So what does Revelation reveal about Jesus? Everything. From beginning to end, Revelation presents Jesus in the fullness of His person and work. He is thefaithful witness, thefirstborn from the dead, and theruler of the kings of the earth(1:5). He is theFirst and the Last, theLiving One (1:1718), theHoly One, theTrue One(3:7), and theoriginator of Gods creation(3:14). He is theLion of the tribe of Judahand theRoot of David(5:5), yet also theLamb who was slainand theWorthy One(5:6, 9, 12). He is theSon of Man(14:14), theWord of God(19:13), and theKing of kings and Lord of lords(19:16). He is theAlpha and the Omega, theBeginning and the End(22:13), theRoot and the Descendant of David, and theBright Morning Star(22:16). For this reason, the book of Revelation may rightly be calledthe most Christ-centered book in the Bible. How can I say that? Because, as Paul tells us,all the promises of God find their Yes in Jesus Christand Revelation is the book that shows us, again and again, how Jesus is Gods Yes to every promise He has ever made. This is the primary reason why we are assured a blessing for all who read, hear, and keep what is written in Revelation. You do know, dont you, that you can read something and not hear it right? You can read a verse in the Bible and not really hear it, just as easily as someone can tell you something and it goes in one ear and then out the other with little to no effect. I believe part of that blessing is reflected in whatThe Center for Bible Engagementdiscovered through a large-scale study on Bible engagement involving more than 600,000 participants. The results surprised many peopleincluding those who conducted the research. The study found that individuals who engaged with Scripture at least four times a week experienced: a30% drop in loneliness a32% drop in anger a40% drop in bitterness in marriage and relationships a57% drop in alcoholism a60% drop in sexual sins, including pornography addiction a62% drop in those who felt distant from God So what does it mean to keep the book of Revelation? It means more than reading it or debating itit means treasuring its words and following the Christ it reveals in obedient faith. The very first sentence of the book gives us this clue:The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show to His servantsThe word translatedservantsis the Greek worddoulos, a term that speaks of belonging, allegiance, and obligation. A true Christian, then, is not someone who merely speaks well of Jesus, but someone who gladly submits to Himyielding not just words, but life itselfin faithful service to the One who is revealed as Lord. And this is why we are called to read, hear, and keep the words of Revelationnot only because of the blessing it promises, but becausethe time is near.What time is near? Not simply the final return of Christ, though that hope is never absent. Rather, John is pointing to the nearness of pressure, opposition, and persecution that come when allegiance to Jesus collides with the demands of the world. Revelation prepares Gods people to remain faithful when conformity is rewarded and faithfulness is costly. Behold Our Triune God (vv. 4-6) So why should we press on in light of what is coming? Why read, hear, and keep the words of this book? Because of who God is. Our God is the LORD AlmightyYahwehand there is no one like Him. He is the One who greets His people and extends grace and peace to those who belong to Him. Johns greeting is not casual; it is deeply theological and addressed to the seven churches. These were seven real, historical congregations located in strategic cities of Asia Minor. Yet because the number seven signifies fullness and completeness, they also represent the church as a wholeGods people in every generation and in every place. In that sense, the seven churches represent us. And it is to this churchthen and nowthat grace and peace are given. They come first from the eternal, self-existent God, the One Isaiah proclaimed when he said,Thus says the LORD, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the LORD of hosts: I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god(Isa. 44:6). This is the God who stands at the beginning and the end of historythe God who is never threatened, never surprised, and never displaced. This God is also all-sufficient and unchanging. James calls Himthe Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change(Jas. 1:17). In a world where rulers rise and fall and circumstances shift, God remains the same. That is why His grace does not fade and His peace does not fail. In Revelation 1:4, He is described as the Onewho is and who was and who is to come.This is God the Fatherthe great I AMwho once set His people free by crushing Pharaoh and now meets His suffering church with grace and peace. This grace and peace also come from the sevenfold Spiritthe Holy Spirit. The language of seven spirits speaks not of multiple beings, but of the fullness and perfection of the one Spirit who proceeds from Gods throne. It is the Holy Spirit who applies Gods grace to our hearts, sustains us in suffering, and empowers faithful witness. And finally, this grace and peace come from Jesus Christ, the Son. John describes Him asthe faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.Jesus is the faithful witness because He perfectly revealed God and bore faithful testimony to the trutheven unto death. As the firstborn from the dead, He conquered death on our behalf, guaranteeing resurrection life for all who belong to Him. As Paul declares,Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep(1 Cor. 15:20), and again,He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything He might be preeminent(Col. 1:18). Our risen Lord is not waiting to ruleHe already reigns. He is not described as one whowill bethe ruler of the kings of the earth, but as the One whoisthe ruler of the kings of the earth. Having lived the life we could not live, died the death we deserved, and risen in victory, Jesus is now exalted at the right hand of the Father. As Scripture declares,At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father(Phil. 2:911). But thats not all, dear brothers and sisters. Scripture tells us that truth is established by two or more faithful witness. Again and again, God confirms His testimony through two witnesses. And in Revelation 1:56, John gives us exactly that. Christ bears witness to His love for us in two unmistakable ways:He has freed us from our sins by His blood, and He has made us a kingdompriests to His God and Father.These two witnesses proclaim one glorious truthnot merely what Christ has done, but who we are to Him. They testify to this above all else:He loves us. He loves us. The love of Christ is never passive. The One who loves us frees us, and the One who frees us forms us into something new. Revelation does not simply assure us that we are lovedit tells us who we now are because we are loved. And that is where John now turns our attention. Behold the Coming King (vv. 7-8) Where is the love of Christ leading us? What was it in these words that was meant to encourage John and the seven churches? Jesusthe faithful witness who lived the life we could never live, the firstborn from the dead who died the death we deserved, and the ruler of the kings of the earth who has made us a kingdom of priestsis coming back for us. How is He coming back? He is coming to be seen, and He is coming in glory. Long before John ever saw this vision, the prophetDanielwas given a glimpse of that day when he wrote,I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away(Dan. 7:1314). When Jesus returns, every eye will see Himincluding those who pierced Him. Jesus Himself described what John records in Revelation 1:7 when He said,Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory (Matt.24:30). At His appearing, the tribes of the earth will mournthose who rejected Him, mocked Him, and sought to silence Him by silencing His church. But not all tears will be tears of grief or fear. For those who belong to Christ, for those who have longed for His appearing, our tears will be tears of joy, relief, and celebration. Throughout the book ofRevelation, Jesus promises His coming again and againno fewer than seven times (2:25; 3:11; 16:15; 22:7, 12, 20). This is the first of those promises, but it will not be the last. So what confidence do we have that this will happen? What guarantee do we have that Jesus is truly coming back? Our assurance rests not only in the empty tomb He walked out of, nor only in His promise as the faithful and true witness, but in God Himselfthe One who declares,I am the Alpha and the Omega.He is the great I AM. He is the Lord Almightythe One who is and who was and who is to come. Because He does not change, His promises do not fail, and it is this unchanging God who has guaranteed that these promises belong to His redeemed sons and daughters. Conclusion Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, devote yourselves wholeheartedly to the risen and reigning Christ, rather than to the temporary powers and fleeting trends of this world. Anchor your plans, your hopes, and your very lives in Him alone. Let your hearts rest in the deep assurance of His unfailing lovethe love that has freed you from your sins by His precious blood and has made you a kingdom of priests to His God and Father. As you await the glorious appearing of the King who will come with power for all to see, endure the pressures that seek to silence your testimony, resist the subtle temptations to compromise, and hold fast to the blessing promised to those who read, hear, and keep the words of this prophecy. Do all this with unshakable confidence and living hope, for the One who calls you is faithful, and He will surely fulfill all that He has promised. So here is what I want to leave you with. If you would remember what it means to read, hear, and keep the words of the book of Revelation, remember this one word:HEAR. H Hold fastto the blessing promised to those who read, hear, and keep the words of this prophecy. E Endurethe pressures that seek to silence your testimony. A Anchoryour plans, your dreams, and your hopes in the incomparable Christ. R Resistthe subtle temptations to compromise, trusting that God will fulfill all His promises.

Keith Miller Meadowbrooke Church January 25, 2026 Behold Our Great God Revelation 1:1-8 Introduction In a world that exalts earthly power and demands allegiance, the book of Revelation pulls back the curtain and shows us the true throne of heaven. It calls Gods people to place their hope and loyalty not in the rulers of this age, but in Jesus Christthe One who governs history and alone deserves our allegiance. To grasp Revelation rightly, we must consider the circumstances in which it was given. Most scholars agree that the book was written near the end of the first century, likely between AD 90 and 95, during the reign of the Roman emperor Domitian. John tells us that he received this revelation while exiled on the island of Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus (Rev. 1:9). His exile was not a voluntary retreat, but punishment for unwavering faithfulness to Christ. John had lived a long and costly life of discipleship. He had outlived the other apostles, witnessed the rise and fall of emperors, and seen friends and fellow believers martyred for their allegiance to Jesus. He had watched the brutality of Rome unleashedmost notably in the devastation of Jerusalemand he had seen firsthand what happens when earthly powers claim absolute authority. Long before Romes pressure intensified, many Jewish believers in Jesus had already been pushed out of their own communitiesexcluded from synagogues, cut off from family life, and treated as apostates rather than brothers. Faithfulness to Christ often meant losing ones religious home before ever confronting the power of the empire. By the time John was exiled, the pressure on the church had intensified. Under Domitian, emperor worship became a test of loyalty, especially in Asia Minor. For most citizens, participation was routine. For Christians, it was a crisis. To confess Jesus is Lord was to deny Caesar that title, and refusal could lead to social exclusion, economic loss, exile, or worse. This was not a moment of widespread slaughter, but of steady compromise. Christians were not being asked, Will you die for Christ today? They were being asked, Will you bendjust a little? It is into this world that Revelation was given. The very wordrevelationmeans unveiling. God is not hiding His purposes; He is revealing them. This book was written to a pressured church to show who truly reigns, how history is moving, and why faithfulness to Jesus is always worth the cost. And that is where Revelation begins. Behold the Blessing (vv. 1-3) When it comes to Revelation, the book is notRevelations. It is not a series of secret disclosures reserved for the most skilled students of prophetic Scripture. It is not a collection of clues designed to help us identify the next antichristespecially since we are told that many antichrists have already come. It is also not a puzzle to figure out the timing of Christs return, for Jesus even said, But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only (Matt. 24:36). Revelation isarevelationbut more precisely, it isthe Revelation of Jesus Christ. That is how the book begins, and that is what the book is about. So what does Revelation reveal about Jesus? Everything. From beginning to end, Revelation presents Jesus in the fullness of His person and work. He is thefaithful witness, thefirstborn from the dead, and theruler of the kings of the earth(1:5). He is theFirst and the Last, theLiving One (1:1718), theHoly One, theTrue One(3:7), and theoriginator of Gods creation(3:14). He is theLion of the tribe of Judahand theRoot of David(5:5), yet also theLamb who was slainand theWorthy One(5:6, 9, 12). He is theSon of Man(14:14), theWord of God(19:13), and theKing of kings and Lord of lords(19:16). He is theAlpha and the Omega, theBeginning and the End(22:13), theRoot and the Descendant of David, and theBright Morning Star(22:16). For this reason, the book of Revelation may rightly be calledthe most Christ-centered book in the Bible. How can I say that? Because, as Paul tells us,all the promises of God find their Yes in Jesus Christand Revelation is the book that shows us, again and again, how Jesus is Gods Yes to every promise He has ever made. This is the primary reason why we are assured a blessing for all who read, hear, and keep what is written in Revelation. You do know, dont you, that you can read something and not hear it right? You can read a verse in the Bible and not really hear it, just as easily as someone can tell you something and it goes in one ear and then out the other with little to no effect. I believe part of that blessing is reflected in whatThe Center for Bible Engagementdiscovered through a large-scale study on Bible engagement involving more than 600,000 participants. The results surprised many peopleincluding those who conducted the research. The study found that individuals who engaged with Scripture at least four times a week experienced: a30% drop in loneliness a32% drop in anger a40% drop in bitterness in marriage and relationships a57% drop in alcoholism a60% drop in sexual sins, including pornography addiction a62% drop in those who felt distant from God So what does it mean to keep the book of Revelation? It means more than reading it or debating itit means treasuring its words and following the Christ it reveals in obedient faith. The very first sentence of the book gives us this clue:The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show to His servantsThe word translatedservantsis the Greek worddoulos, a term that speaks of belonging, allegiance, and obligation. A true Christian, then, is not someone who merely speaks well of Jesus, but someone who gladly submits to Himyielding not just words, but life itselfin faithful service to the One who is revealed as Lord. And this is why we are called to read, hear, and keep the words of Revelationnot only because of the blessing it promises, but becausethe time is near.What time is near? Not simply the final return of Christ, though that hope is never absent. Rather, John is pointing to the nearness of pressure, opposition, and persecution that come when allegiance to Jesus collides with the demands of the world. Revelation prepares Gods people to remain faithful when conformity is rewarded and faithfulness is costly. Behold Our Triune God (vv. 4-6) So why should we press on in light of what is coming? Why read, hear, and keep the words of this book? Because of who God is. Our God is the LORD AlmightyYahwehand there is no one like Him. He is the One who greets His people and extends grace and peace to those who belong to Him. Johns greeting is not casual; it is deeply theological and addressed to the seven churches. These were seven real, historical congregations located in strategic cities of Asia Minor. Yet because the number seven signifies fullness and completeness, they also represent the church as a wholeGods people in every generation and in every place. In that sense, the seven churches represent us. And it is to this churchthen and nowthat grace and peace are given. They come first from the eternal, self-existent God, the One Isaiah proclaimed when he said,Thus says the LORD, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the LORD of hosts: I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god(Isa. 44:6). This is the God who stands at the beginning and the end of historythe God who is never threatened, never surprised, and never displaced. This God is also all-sufficient and unchanging. James calls Himthe Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change(Jas. 1:17). In a world where rulers rise and fall and circumstances shift, God remains the same. That is why His grace does not fade and His peace does not fail. In Revelation 1:4, He is described as the Onewho is and who was and who is to come.This is God the Fatherthe great I AMwho once set His people free by crushing Pharaoh and now meets His suffering church with grace and peace. This grace and peace also come from the sevenfold Spiritthe Holy Spirit. The language of seven spirits speaks not of multiple beings, but of the fullness and perfection of the one Spirit who proceeds from Gods throne. It is the Holy Spirit who applies Gods grace to our hearts, sustains us in suffering, and empowers faithful witness. And finally, this grace and peace come from Jesus Christ, the Son. John describes Him asthe faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.Jesus is the faithful witness because He perfectly revealed God and bore faithful testimony to the trutheven unto death. As the firstborn from the dead, He conquered death on our behalf, guaranteeing resurrection life for all who belong to Him. As Paul declares,Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep(1 Cor. 15:20), and again,He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything He might be preeminent(Col. 1:18). Our risen Lord is not waiting to ruleHe already reigns. He is not described as one whowill bethe ruler of the kings of the earth, but as the One whoisthe ruler of the kings of the earth. Having lived the life we could not live, died the death we deserved, and risen in victory, Jesus is now exalted at the right hand of the Father. As Scripture declares,At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father(Phil. 2:911). But thats not all, dear brothers and sisters. Scripture tells us that truth is established by two or more faithful witness. Again and again, God confirms His testimony through two witnesses. And in Revelation 1:56, John gives us exactly that. Christ bears witness to His love for us in two unmistakable ways:He has freed us from our sins by His blood, and He has made us a kingdompriests to His God and Father.These two witnesses proclaim one glorious truthnot merely what Christ has done, but who we are to Him. They testify to this above all else:He loves us. He loves us. The love of Christ is never passive. The One who loves us frees us, and the One who frees us forms us into something new. Revelation does not simply assure us that we are lovedit tells us who we now are because we are loved. And that is where John now turns our attention. Behold the Coming King (vv. 7-8) Where is the love of Christ leading us? What was it in these words that was meant to encourage John and the seven churches? Jesusthe faithful witness who lived the life we could never live, the firstborn from the dead who died the death we deserved, and the ruler of the kings of the earth who has made us a kingdom of priestsis coming back for us. How is He coming back? He is coming to be seen, and He is coming in glory. Long before John ever saw this vision, the prophetDanielwas given a glimpse of that day when he wrote,I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away(Dan. 7:1314). When Jesus returns, every eye will see Himincluding those who pierced Him. Jesus Himself described what John records in Revelation 1:7 when He said,Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory (Matt.24:30). At His appearing, the tribes of the earth will mournthose who rejected Him, mocked Him, and sought to silence Him by silencing His church. But not all tears will be tears of grief or fear. For those who belong to Christ, for those who have longed for His appearing, our tears will be tears of joy, relief, and celebration. Throughout the book ofRevelation, Jesus promises His coming again and againno fewer than seven times (2:25; 3:11; 16:15; 22:7, 12, 20). This is the first of those promises, but it will not be the last. So what confidence do we have that this will happen? What guarantee do we have that Jesus is truly coming back? Our assurance rests not only in the empty tomb He walked out of, nor only in His promise as the faithful and true witness, but in God Himselfthe One who declares,I am the Alpha and the Omega.He is the great I AM. He is the Lord Almightythe One who is and who was and who is to come. Because He does not change, His promises do not fail, and it is this unchanging God who has guaranteed that these promises belong to His redeemed sons and daughters. Conclusion Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, devote yourselves wholeheartedly to the risen and reigning Christ, rather than to the temporary powers and fleeting trends of this world. Anchor your plans, your hopes, and your very lives in Him alone. Let your hearts rest in the deep assurance of His unfailing lovethe love that has freed you from your sins by His precious blood and has made you a kingdom of priests to His God and Father. As you await the glorious appearing of the King who will come with power for all to see, endure the pressures that seek to silence your testimony, resist the subtle temptations to compromise, and hold fast to the blessing promised to those who read, hear, and keep the words of this prophecy. Do all this with unshakable confidence and living hope, for the One who calls you is faithful, and He will surely fulfill all that He has promised. So here is what I want to leave you with. If you would remember what it means to read, hear, and keep the words of the book of Revelation, remember this one word:HEAR. H Hold fastto the blessing promised to those who read, hear, and keep the words of this prophecy. E Endurethe pressures that seek to silence your testimony. A Anchoryour plans, your dreams, and your hopes in the incomparable Christ. R Resistthe subtle temptations to compromise, trusting that God will fulfill all His promises.

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        GOD Provides JESUS Saves

Theword circumspectly is an interesting one. It comes from a word that means tolook around carefully. The idea is precision, accuracy, and thoughtful living.Paul is saying, “Pay attention to how you live. Walk carefully. Walk withpurpose.” The opposite would be walking carelessly—drifting through lifewithout direction, guidance, or forethought. The Christian life is notsomething we can leave to chance. It requires wise decisions and a sinceredesire to do the will of God. Theseverses connect closely with what Paul said just before in verse 14, where heurged believers to wake up. The picture is clear: Don't walk through lifespiritually asleep. Open your eyes. Be alert. Make the most of the day God hasgiven you. Sadly, many professing Christians drift through life like spiritualsleepwalkers. They rarely pause to consider how God might want to use them orhow their daily choices matter for eternity. Paul gives us several reasons whywe should walk carefully and wisely. First,it is a mark of wisdom. Paul says, “See then that you walk circumspectly, not asfools but as wise.” A fool simply drifts with the wind and the tide. A wiseperson charts a course, sets a direction, and steers accordingly. Just as abuilder plans before constructing a house, believers should be intentionalabout how they live their lives. We may not know what tomorrow holds, but aplanned life is far better equipped to deal with unexpected events. Walkingwisely means knowing where you're going and why. Second,life is short.Verse 16 tells us to redeem the time, or literally, buy up the opportunity. Theidea is to seize the moments God gives us while we can. Opportunities arefleeting. Once they pass, they may never return. Our English word opportunitycarries the picture of a ship catching the wind and tide to reach the harbor.Life moves quickly, and Scripture repeatedly reminds us of its brevity. Thatreality should motivate us to use our time wisely for the Lord. Third,the days are evil.When Paul wrote these words, persecution was looming on the horizon.Opportunities to serve Christ and reach the lost would not always be available.If the days were evil then, they certainly are today. Sin advances, hearts growharder, and doors can close quickly. That is why we must not waste theopportunities God places before us. At the same time, because the days are evilthere will be more confusion and chaos which will produce more brokenness inour relationships and lives. This means that even more opportunities will bearound us to share the love and truth of Jesus with! Fourth,God has given us a mind. Verse 17 says, “Therefore do not be unwise, butunderstand what the will of the Lord is.” Understanding God's will is not amystical experience that bypasses clear thinking. God expects His children touse their minds. As Romans 12 tells us, God transforms us by the renewing ofour minds. Through His Word, prayer, meditation, and worship, we learn to thinkbiblically and discern wisely. God does not merely want us to know His will—Hewants us to understand it. That involves gathering facts, weighing decisions,and praying for wisdom, as James reminds us. Finally,God has a plan for our lives. Scripture teaches that we are God'sworkmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works which He preparedbeforehand. God saves us with purpose. He reveals His plan through His Word,through the inner leading of the Holy Spirit, and through circumstances that Heorchestrates for our good. Because God has a plan, we can walk carefully andconfidently. Like a builder following a blueprint, we align our lives with whatthe Master Architect has designed. MayGod help us not to drift, but to walk wisely—redeeming the time, understandingHis will, and living each day with purpose for His glory. Godbless you, and I trust you have a wonderful, wonderful day.

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS Savesthe LORD is a Man or War, Exodus 15 

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day This episode includes AI-generated content.

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day This episode includes AI-generated content.

Christian ; Follower of GOD Servant of CHRIST        Decorated Combat Veteran; U.S. Marine Corps Urban Warfare Instructor;       S.R.T. Commander Active Shooter Response Team Law Enforcement Los Angeles Police (L.A.P.D.) Police Officer / Fugitive RecoveryF.B.I. Instructor N.R.A Instructor Competition Shooter; Multi Time State Rifle Pistol Champion Hunting; Life Long Hunter Proffessional Hunter and Guide Private Security Contractor; Several Agencies,  Current.Patreon https://bit.ly/3jcLDuZGOD Provides JESUS SavesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gunfighter-life-survival-guns-tactical-hunting--4187306/support.Have a Blessed Day 

In this third and final week of Peace Beyond Christmas: A Priority Time Series, Karin Conleewraps up this series with an important finale. Finding peace beyond Christmas starts withallowing your heart to attach to God each day, both before and after Christmas. It is often verypractical things that prevent people from growing in their relationship with the Lord. Where do Istart in the Bible? How long should my Priority Time be? What if I don't understand everything Iread? Karin addresses common barriers and misunderstandings about spending time in theWord and in prayer, and then uses Matthew 1:22-25 to help every believer see how a fewsimple tools can turn familiar passages we often read without expecting real-time applicationinto meaningful moments with the Lord and into application for our lives today.