Podcasts about throughout scripture

Courage is one of the most essential qualities of biblical leadership, yet it is one of the most difficult for leaders to consistently choose. The Bible does not define courage as the absence of fear. Instead, Christian courage is confidence in God's presence, God's promises, and God's strength. Throughout Scripture, God repeatedly tells His people to “be strong and courageous” because He is with them wherever they go. In this episode, we explore why courageous leadership is necessary for Christian leaders who want to live with intentional influence and lead like Jesus. If you want to grow as a faith-based leader, overcome the fear of man, and lead with clarity, confidence, and biblical conviction, this conversation will encourage and challenge you. You will also hear why many leaders grow faster when they allow someone to walk beside them in their leadership journey. The Bible reminds us that iron sharpens iron, and leadership coaching can help you process decisions, strengthen your faith, and choose courage when leadership feels difficult. If you desire to lead with Christ-centered influence at work, in your community, and at home, this episode will help you understand why courage is the testing point of every virtue in Christian leadership. In This Episode • Why biblical courage is rooted in confidence in God's presence • How Christian leaders overcome the fear of man and lead with truth • Why courage is essential when making difficult leadership decisions • How courageous leadership inspires others to live by faith instead of fear • Why leadership coaching and accountability help leaders grow in courage Key Bible Verses on Courage Joshua 1:9 — “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Psalm 27:1 — “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” 1 Corinthians 16:13 — “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” 2 Corinthians 4:8 — “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed.” 1 John 4:18 — “Perfect love drives out fear.” Psalm 31:24 — “Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in the Lord.” Biblical Examples of Courageous Leadership • Joshua – trusted God and courageously led Israel into the Promised Land • David – defeated giants and enemies by trusting God's protection • Jesus – modeled perfect courage and obedience even in the face of the cross Leadership Reflection Where is God asking you to choose courage in your leadership? Is it a conversation you need to have? A decision you need to make? A biblical conviction you need to stand on? Courageous leaders don't eliminate fear — they choose faith and obedience despite it.   If you are a Christian woman who wants to lead with clarity, confidence, and biblical alignment, I invite you to sign up for the Lead like Jesus Workshop, a 3 session experience designed to help women lead intentionally and stay rooted in God's plan. Click here to sign up.   Your Next Step If this episode resonates and you're craving deeper clarity, confidence, and intentional growth, I would love to walk alongside you.

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” — Matthew 16:26 Those words from Jesus confront one of the deepest questions we can ask about money and success. Jesus spoke them to His disciples as He taught about the cost of following Him. In that moment, He contrasted two pursuits: gaining the world and preserving the soul. The question still echoes today: Is there a spiritual cost to financial success? On today's episode of Faith & Finance, John Rinehart, founder and CEO of Gospel Patrons, joined the show to explore that very question and what Scripture teaches about wealth, work, and spiritual health. The Bible's Honest Warnings About Wealth Financial success itself is not condemned in Scripture. In fact, the Bible includes many faithful believers who possessed great wealth—Abraham, Job, and Lydia among them. Yet Scripture also carries repeated warnings about the spiritual dangers that prosperity can create. As John explained on the show, wealth can be both a blessing and a temptation. The danger arises when our hearts begin to trust money instead of God. Jesus addressed this tension directly in Matthew 6:24: “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve God and money.” The issue is not the possession of wealth but the mastery of wealth over the human heart. And in a culture that celebrates success, possessions, and financial independence, those warnings are easy to overlook. The Cycle of Success That Can Lead to Spiritual Failure John describes a pattern many people fall into—a cycle of success that can quietly lead to spiritual drift. It often begins with a view of work that centers on earning money so we can eventually rest. We work hard, pursue success, and over time, our effort produces prosperity. Hard work and prosperity themselves are not wrong. In fact, Scripture often affirms diligence. But prosperity introduces a new danger. As John noted during the conversation, success can gradually lead us to forget the God who provided it in the first place. When we begin to see wealth as the product of our own ability rather than God's provision, our dependence on Him begins to fade. Before long, success that once felt like a blessing can become a spiritual trap. The Warning of the Rich Fool Jesus illustrates this danger in the Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12:16–21. In the story, a farmer experiences an abundant harvest. Faced with overflowing crops, he decides to tear down his barns and build bigger ones to store them all. From a purely financial perspective, his plan sounds wise. But Jesus reveals the deeper problem. The man begins speaking to himself as though his wealth guarantees security and ease: “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.” — Luke 12:19 Then comes the shocking turn. “But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you.'” — Luke 12:20 The problem wasn't the harvest—it was forgetting God. This story hits close to home in a culture that often equates success with building bigger barns. The Danger of Forgetting the Source This warning appears long before Jesus told that parable. As Israel prepared to enter the Promised Land, Moses cautioned them about the spiritual risks that accompany prosperity. In Deuteronomy 8:17–18, he warned: “Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.' You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth.” John highlighted this verse as a key reminder: even the ability to create wealth is a gift from God. When we forget that truth, wealth easily shifts from blessing to idol. When Wealth Chokes Out Spiritual Fruit Jesus also warned that wealth can quietly interfere with spiritual growth. In the Parable of the Sower, He describes seeds that begin growing but are eventually overwhelmed by thorns. He explains the meaning in Mark 4:19: “The cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.” John also noted how startling that statement is. The Word of God is powerful, yet Jesus says the deceitfulness of riches can still choke its fruitfulness in a person's life. Wealth promises security and satisfaction—but it often delivers anxiety and distraction instead. God's Better Rhythm for Life Thankfully, Scripture offers a healthier path. John explained that instead of structuring life around work and wealth, God invites us into a different rhythm—one that begins with rest. The Sabbath command in Exodus 20:8–10 reminds us that our lives are not sustained by constant productivity. Rest re-centers our hearts. It draws our attention back to God through worship, Scripture, and time with the community of faith. From that place of rest, work becomes something different. Instead of merely trading time for money, work becomes an act of service and worship—an opportunity to use the gifts God has given us to bless others. When prosperity comes from that posture, it is received differently. Instead of assuming ownership, we begin to recognize stewardship. As Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us, God is the one who provides the power to create wealth. That truth reshapes how we think about money. Our resources are no longer simply tools for personal comfort—they become opportunities to participate in God's work. And that leads naturally to generosity. The Role of “Gospel Patrons” John's ministry, Gospel Patrons, highlights a powerful biblical pattern. Throughout Scripture and church history, movements of God have often been supported by generous believers whose financial resources helped fuel gospel work. Even during Jesus' ministry, Luke 8:3 tells us that several women helped support Him and His disciples “out of their means.” These supporters—often business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals—play a vital role in advancing the mission of God. They may not always preach sermons or travel as missionaries, but their faithful stewardship enables those ministries to flourish. Your Work Can Matter for Eternity One of the most encouraging points Reinhardt shared on the program is that believers working in business or professional careers are not second-class participants in God's Kingdom. Your daily work matters. When your work is offered to God, your resources stewarded faithfully, and your generosity directed toward His mission, your life becomes part of something eternal. Financial success does not have to lead to spiritual failure. When we remember the source of our wealth and steward it with humility and generosity, our work can become a powerful instrument in advancing God's Kingdom. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 68 and recently retired. With a home for sale and significant cash on hand, I'm trying to determine the best way to begin withdrawing from my 401(k) without pushing myself into a higher tax bracket before RMDs begin. What's the best strategy? My husband and I are doing Roth conversions, and our CPA suggested funding a charitable giving account to offset the taxes and then using it for our regular tithe. Is it biblically and ethically appropriate to tithe from a charitable account like that? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Gospel Patrons Gospel Patrons: People Whose Generosity Changed The World by John Rinehart Breaking the Cycle (Article by John Rinehart in Faithful Steward Magazine, Issue 1) An Uncommon Guide to Retirement: Finding God's Purpose for the Next Season of Life by Jeff Haanen Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Do you ever end the day feeling like you didn't do enough? Many working Christian moms carry an unspoken pressure to do everything well — to succeed at work, be fully present with their kids, keep the home running smoothly, and grow in their faith. When life feels full and expectations feel high, it's easy to fall into the trap of perfectionism and believe we should somehow be able to do it all flawlessly. But God never asks us to live perfectly. Throughout Scripture, we see that God is not looking for perfection from His people — He is looking for faithfulness. In 1 Corinthians 4:2, Paul reminds us that what is required is that we be found faithful. In today's episode, we talk about what it looks like to release the pressure of perfection and begin living in the freedom of faithfulness. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or like you're constantly falling short as a mom, employee, or Christian woman, this conversation will remind you that your life with God is not measured by perfect performance. Instead, it's shaped by the simple, steady choice to keep walking with Him. You'll be encouraged to shift your focus from trying to get everything right to faithfully inviting God into the middle of your everyday life. In This Episode We Talk About Why so many working Christian moms struggle with perfectionism The difference between perfection and biblical faithfulness How perfectionism creates unnecessary pressure and discouragement What Scripture teaches about living faithfully with God Simple ways to walk with God in the middle of a full and imperfect life  

The Weight of His Presence explores what it truly means to carry and host the presence of God. Throughout Scripture, God's presence was never meant to be handled casually—it carried a holy weight that required reverence, purity, and surrender. This message challenges us to move beyond familiarity with God and rediscover the awe, honor, and responsibility of carrying His presence in our lives.

In this message, we explore the Apostle Peter's powerful warning in 2 Peter 2 about false teachers who secretly infiltrate the church and lead people away from the truth. Throughout Scripture, Jesus and the early church leaders repeatedly warned believers to test what they hear and remain grounded in God's Word. This teaching highlights key red flags of false ministers—teachings that minimize Jesus, manipulative tactics around money, and lives marked by hidden sin—while encouraging believers to grow in spiritual discernment rather than suspicion. Most importantly, it reminds us that even when human leaders fail, Jesus remains the Good Shepherd who faithfully loves, protects, and restores His sheep.

Honor is not just a good attitude—it's a spiritual principle that determines what flows into your life.In this message, we continue to explore how honor positions believers to receive what God has placed in others. Throughout Scripture, we see that when people recognize and value what God has established—whether His Word, His house, or His appointed leaders—they open the door for grace, wisdom, and blessing to flow. Dishonor, on the other hand, closes doors. It blinds us to what God is doing and keeps us from receiving the very help He has already provided.This teaching challenges the casual and familiar mindset that often creeps into our hearts. Honor requires humility. It requires recognizing that God works through people, through authority, and through the structures He has established in His kingdom.When believers learn to walk in genuine honor—not flattery, but true value and respect—it changes how they relate to God, to leadership, and to one another. And when honor is present, God is able to release things that dishonor would have restricted. Support the show

In this message, we explore how fasting sharpens spiritual sensitivity, humbles the heart, and trains the flesh so that we can step into what God has prepared. Throughout Scripture, seasons shifted when people set themselves apart in fasting and prayer, receiving divine strategies and victory where defeat once stood. This teaching is a reminder that certain breakthroughs require more than desire. They require consecration, humility, and the discipline that prepares us for the new season God is bringing.

Thirty years ago, I participated in an activity at an unemployment workshop that I still remember today. My fellow laid-off co-workers and I were asked to write our retirement speeches. Huh? We were looking for work and far from retirement age. But the facilitator revealed the purpose of the activity by saying, “Your speech will probably have little to do with your work.” She explained to us that a job really isn't the center of our lives. And while we may be grieving the loss of a job, our lives mean much more than being employed. The words about the end of Abraham’s life remind me of this lesson. He died at a “good old age” and had lived a “long and satisfying life” (Genesis 25:8 nlt). Throughout Scripture, we read about Abraham’s faithfulness in following God’s instructions, but we don’t read much about his work. The faith the patriarch displayed (15:6) reminds me of the Teacher’s conclusion in Ecclesiastes: “To the person who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness” (2:26). The Teacher said this after considering the meaning of life and how one can find enjoyment in the midst of work or toil (vv. 24-25). Even during times of loss and anxiety brought by unemployment, it’s helpful to reflect on Abraham's example and the Teacher’s words—pointing us to true satisfaction found only in God.

I hope you'll see this truth today. God cares about your emotional state. We've often been taught to hide our emotions. I know that I struggle to express my emotions in public. We've been taught to stifle them. Be strong. Don't let anyone see what is going on inside. But God cares about our emotions.Main Points:1. Throughout Scripture, we see men and women feeling and expressing emotion, but nowhere do we see it more than in the book of Psalms.  David and the other Psalm writers openly bare their soul and their inner lives. We get to see what's happening on the inside, not just on the outside.2. Did you know that God also feels emotion? We feel emotion because God feels emotion. Genesis tells us we were created in the image of God.3. Not only can God bring healing to our physical bodies, but He can also bring healing to our mental and emotional state. God cares about our whole being. Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 77:1-4 - “I cried out to God for help; I cried out to God to hear me. When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring hands, and I would not be comforted. I remembered you, God, and I groaned; I meditated, and my spirit grew faint. You kept my eyes from closing; I was too troubled to speak.”Psalm 13:1-2 - “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart?”Ephesians 3:16 - “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

This sermon centers on Acts 2 and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Throughout Scripture, when God's people dedicate something to Him, His presence fills it. From Mount Sinai, to the Tabernacle, to Solomon's Temple, to the Day of Pentecost, the glory of God comes where His people seek Him.But God's glory is never an end in itself.It must always be connected to purpose.Pastor Elliott challenges the church with a critical question:What is the arc of influence of the Gospel in our generation?Are we expanding the reach of the Gospel, or shrinking back?This message calls believers to recommit themselves to the mission of Jesus Christ: evangelism, discipleship, church planting, and world missions.The glory of God must fill the house, but the Gospel must reach the nations.Chapters00:00 Offering and Giving Insights12:02 Special Music and Closing Remarks13:09 Dedication and Purpose in Ministry16:28 The Glory of God in the Church26:00 Linking Glory with Mission35:57 Furthering the Gospel's Reach46:39 A Call to Action and DedicationShow NotesALL PROCEEDS GO TO WORLD EVANGELISMLocate a CFM Church near you: https://cfmmap.orgWe need five-star reviews! Tell the world what you think about this podcast at:• Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3vy1s5b• Podchaser: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/taking-the-land-cfm-sermon-pod-43369v

In this episode of the podcast When the Scriptures Become Real, we explore powerful spiritual lessons from the olive grove and what the Bible teaches through the imagery of the olive tree. Throughout Scripture, olive trees, olive oil, and olive groves symbolize growth, crushing, anointing, endurance, and the process God uses to produce spiritual fruit in our lives.Just like olives must go through a pressing process to produce oil, believers often go through seasons of pressure, testing, and waiting before God brings out what He placed inside of them. In this episode, we look at how God uses these seasons to develop faith, character, and spiritual maturity.In this lesson you will discover why olive trees are such a powerful symbol of spiritual growth in the Bible. We will also talk about how pressure and trials can produce the “oil” God wants in your life and the connection between crushing, anointing, and purpose. We will also consider what the Bible teaches about remaining planted and fruitful and how to trust God when you feel like you are in a pressing season.If you have ever felt like life is squeezing you, this episode will encourage you to see that God often does His greatest work in the pressing.This teaching helps us see how the Scriptures become real in everyday life and how God uses ordinary processes in nature to reveal deeper spiritual truths.Listen to this episode to discover how the lessons from the olive grove can strengthen your faith and deepen your walk with God.

This message concludes the Basic Christian Values series by emphasizing that believers are saved on purpose and for a purpose—to serve God by serving others. Drawing from Psalm 139 and Ephesians 2, it teaches that every person is intentionally created by God and saved by grace through faith, not by works, yet believers are saved for good works that God prepared in advance. Serving is therefore not the basis of salvation but the evidence of it, reflecting the transformation that comes from knowing Christ. Throughout Scripture—from God's promise to Abraham in Genesis 12 to the teaching on active faith in James 2—God blesses His people so they can become a blessing to others. Using Jesus' parable of the talents in Matthew 25, the message reminds believers that God entrusts each person with gifts, opportunities, and the message of salvation and expects them to invest those gifts in His kingdom. Serving reorients believers toward God's mission, cultivates humility, builds meaningful relationships, and strengthens unity within the church, as described in 1 Corinthians 12 and 1 Peter 4. Ultimately, Christians are called to move beyond being consumers of church to contributors in God's work, faithfully using their gifts in whatever role God places them so that others may encounter Christ and the church may grow in health, unity, and impact.

Throughout Scripture, Jesus speaks more about the Kingdom of God than any other topic. The more Jesus speaks about something, the more likely that we need to renew our minds about that thing! Today, Pastor Sam Cabra explains what a kingdom is and what it is not. We are citizens of another world; one that has different laws and mindsets. The more we can adjust ourselves to our true citizenship, the more we will see Heaven invade our families, jobs, and lives.Thank you for partnering with Reunion Hawaii! To GIVE online, please visit our website at www.reunionhawaii.comMake sure to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to this podcast!You can follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/reunionhawaii@reunionhawaii

In this life-changing episode, Bishop Mark Brown shares a powerful message about coming out, the divine process God uses to separate individuals for the calling and purpose He has already predestined for their lives. Throughout Scripture, God consistently calls people out before He sends them out. Seasons of separation, transition, and even isolation are often part of God's preparation process. What may appear to be delay or disruption is frequently God positioning His people for the assignment He has already ordained. In this message, Bishop Brown teaches that God has established systems, strategies, and divine order designed for each person to succeed in their purpose. Nothing in God's plan is random. The situations, encounters, and variables we experience can all become instruments God uses to guide us into the direction He has prepared for us. This episode will help you understand how God uses circumstances to refine, redirect, and align His people with His will. What feels like separation may actually be divine preparation for elevation. Do not miss this powerful and life-changing conversation.

Title: "What Are Angels?" - Hebrews 1:14; Colossians 1:16 Series: Unseen - The Truth About Angels (Week 1) Most of what people think they know about angels comes from movies, TV shows, greeting cards, and folklore—not from Scripture. We imagine chubby baby cherubs with tiny wings, deceased loved ones watching over us from heaven, or angels earning their wings through good deeds. But the Bible paints a very different picture. Angels in Scripture are powerful, terrifying, warlike beings. They're not cute. They're not former humans. And their primary job isn't to make us feel warm and fuzzy, it's to worship God and carry out His will. This message clears away the misconceptions and reveals what God's Word actually teaches about angels. We examined three foundational truths: First, angels are created beings. Colossians 1:16 makes this clear: "For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible...all things were created through him and for him." Angels are not eternal. They are not self-existent. God made them for His glory. This directly refutes one of the biggest misconceptions: dead people do NOT become angels. Angels and humans are two distinct orders of creation. When you die, if you're in Christ, you go to be with the Lord—but you remain human. A glorified human, yes. A perfected human, absolutely. But still human. You don't sprout wings. You don't earn a halo. You don't become a different species. Job 38:4-7 reveals that angels existed before the earth was created. When God laid the foundation of the earth, "the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy." Angels witnessed creation. They were there, worshiping God as He spoke the world into existence. Angels exist for God's glory—not primarily to serve us, though they do minister to believers. Second, angels have a hierarchy. Not all angels are the same. Scripture reveals different ranks, roles, and responsibilities. Colossians 1:16 mentions "thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities"—these are angelic ranks. There's an order, a structure, a hierarchy. We explored the roles of archangels like Michael (warrior and protector) and Gabriel (messenger), cherubim (guardians associated with God's holiness), and seraphim (worshiping angels around God's throne). Isaiah 6:1-3 gives us a powerful picture of seraphim worship. Each seraph has six wings: two cover their faces (because even angels can't look directly at God's glory), two cover their feet (a sign of humility and reverence), and two are used for flying (for active service). And what are they saying? "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts"—the trisagion, emphasizing the absolute, perfect, complete holiness of God. This is what angels do. They worship. They declare God's holiness. They serve in His presence with reverence and awe. If angels—powerful, glorious beings—cover their faces in God's presence, how much more should we approach God with reverence? Third, angels are powerful and terrifying. Nearly every time an angel appears in Scripture, the first thing they say is "Fear not" or "Do not be afraid." Why? Because people are terrified when they see angels. Angels are not the soft, cuddly creatures of popular imagination. They're powerful, overwhelming, and often terrifying. Daniel 10 provides a vivid example. When Daniel sees an angel, the description is stunning: face like lightning, eyes like flaming torches, arms and legs like burnished bronze, voice like the sound of a multitude. This is not a greeting card angel. Daniel's response? He collapses. He has no strength. He falls on his face unconscious. That's the biblical response to seeing an angel. Throughout Scripture, people respond with fear: Zechariah was troubled and fearful (Luke 1:12), Mary was greatly troubled (Luke 1:29), the shepherds were filled with great fear (Luke 2:9), and the guards at Jesus' tomb trembled and became like dead men (Matthew 28:4). Angels are powerful beyond our comprehension. One angel killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers in a single night (2 Kings 19:35). An angel struck down King Herod (Acts 12:23). An angel will seize and bind Satan for a thousand years (Revelation 20:1-3). But here's the good news: if you're in Christ, angels are on your side. Hebrews 1:14 says, "Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?" These powerful, terrifying beings are sent to serve you—not because you deserve it, but because you belong to Christ. Psalm 91:11-12 promises, "For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways." God commands His angels to protect His people. You are more protected than you realize. The message concluded with three applications: First, let go of false ideas about angels. Your loved ones didn't become angels. Angels don't earn wings. They're not here to grant wishes. Get your theology from Scripture, not culture. Second, worship God with reverence. If seraphim cover their faces before God, we should approach Him with awe. He's holy, majestic, and worthy of our deepest reverence. Third, trust God's protection. He commands His angels concerning you. You're more protected than you realize. Live in faith, not fear. The unseen world is real. Angels are real. And they're far more glorious, powerful, and awesome than anything Hollywood has shown us. But angels—as amazing as they are—are still creation. They point us to the Creator. They worship the One who is infinitely greater. Angels are created beings who exist for God's glory. And so are you. Key Scriptures: Hebrews 1:14; 2:16; 12:22, 28-29; Colossians 1:16; Job 38:4-7; Isaiah 6:1-3; Daniel 10:4-9; Psalm 91:11-12; 2 Peter 2:11; 2 Kings 6:16-17; 19:35; Matthew 7:21-23; 28:4; Luke 1:12, 29; 2:9; Acts 12:23; Revelation 5:11; 20:1-3; 22:8-9

What is the greatest gift you can offer God? It isn’t your money, your talents, or even your service. It’s you. Romans 12:1 calls believers to present their bodies as a living sacrifice—holy and acceptable to God. This act of surrender is described as our “reasonable service.” In other words, in light of God’s mercy, offering ourselves fully to Him is the natural response of a grateful heart. The rich young ruler walked away from Jesus because he wasn’t willing to let go. His possessions revealed something deeper—he hadn’t surrendered himself. God’s desire has not changed. He does not want partial access to your life. He wants your heart, your will, your plans, and your future. Surrender means placing everything on the altar—your ambitions, relationships, fears, and expectations. It means trusting that God’s plan is better than your own, even when you don’t understand it. It means believing that the One who created you also knows how to lead you. Throughout Scripture, God used ordinary people who made themselves available—Mary, Moses, the disciples. None were perfect. All were willing. The same invitation stands today: be available. Surrender is not a one-time event. It is daily obedience. It is choosing God’s way over your own, even when it costs something. But surrender is not loss—it is alignment. It positions you to live fully within God’s purpose. Only what is done for Christ will endure. When you offer yourself to Him, you are investing in what lasts forever. Main Takeaways God desires our full surrender, not partial commitment. Presenting ourselves as living sacrifices is a daily act of worship. Surrender involves trusting God’s plans over our own. God equips those who are willing to be used. What we give to Christ has eternal value. Today’s Bible Verse “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” (Romans 12:1 KJV) Your Daily Prayer Prayer excerpt for listeners: “I surrender myself to You as a living sacrifice—use me for Your will and Your glory.” Listen to the full prayer here. To view the prayer in written format, visit the links below. Continue growing in faith and encouragement: LifeAudio.com – Christian podcasts and devotionals Crosswalk.com – Daily prayers, articles, and Bible study resources If you like this podcast, be sure to check out our sister podcast, Your Nightly Prayer - an evening Christian prayer podcast to help you end your day in conversation with God. https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/ This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.orgTrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. https://trinitycredit.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Throughout Scripture, the Lord lovingly calls His people away from rebellion and back into fellowship. But what happens when believers ignore that call? In this message, you'll discover how God often uses hardship to restore spiritual health, the two primary reasons Christians resist His correction, and what it ultimately costs when we refuse to return. If your hunger for the Word has faded or your prayer life feels distant, this is a timely wake-up call. God is committed to finishing what He began in you. The question is: how will you respond?

Joy to the World | The Strength Found in God's Joy In this Sunday message, the focus is on the biblical meaning of joy and why it is essential to the spiritual strength of every believer The sermon begins with the announcement of Jesus' birth in Luke 2, where the angel declares “good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.” This joy is not limited to a holiday or a season—it is a gift God offers to the entire world through the coming of Christ. True joy begins when a person recognizes their need for a Savior and receives the salvation that Jesus provides. Throughout Scripture, God makes it clear that believers are meant to live in joy. Romans teaches that the kingdom of God is “righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Jesus Himself explains in John 15 that when believers abide in Him—remaining in His Word and obeying His commands—His joy remains in them and their joy becomes full. The message emphasizes that joy is not merely a feeling but a spiritual strength. When joy is lost, believers become spiritually weaker, making it harder to pray, read Scripture, or stay focused on God. Many of the struggles Christians face today stem from allowing distractions, worries, and the “cares of this life” to crowd their minds and rob them of their joy. The sermon also highlights how the world is discovering what Scripture has always taught: what we surround ourselves with influences our lives. Constant distractions, media overload, and negative influences create mental “traffic” that crowds out the Word of God and slowly drains joy from the heart. Believers are therefore called to be intentional about guarding their hearts and minds. Our character is shaped by what we tolerate, repeat, and prioritize. Maintaining joy requires choosing God's truth over worldly influences and keeping our minds fixed on Him. The message concludes with a powerful reminder from Nehemiah 8:10: “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Joy strengthens believers to endure trials, resist discouragement, and remain faithful in difficult times. Like the early church, Christians can maintain joy even in hardship because their hope is rooted in God's promises and eternal purpose. Key Takeaway Joy is not optional for the believer—it is a source of spiritual strength. By remaining in Christ, guarding our minds, and focusing on God's Word, we can maintain the joy that empowers us to live faithfully in every circumstance.

In a culture where disrespect is celebrated and dishonor is normalized, this message calls the Church back to a biblical foundation: honor is not optional — it's powerful.Honor is more than politeness or outward respect. It originates in the heart. You can say the right words and still dishonor inwardly — and God sees the difference.Throughout Scripture, we see a clear pattern: “Those who honor Me, I will honor.” (1 Samuel 2:30)From Eli and his sons losing their promise because they dishonored God… to Jesus being unable to do mighty works in Nazareth because of familiarity and offense… to the centurion who received a miracle because he understood authority and showed honor…The message is clear: honor unlocks access. Dishonor restricts it.This teaching challenges the idea that honor must be earned by personality or performance. Instead, we honor positions God has established — up, down, and shoulder-to-shoulder. Honor flows in every direction. It is not about who someone is. It is about who we are before God. Support the show

In ministry circles we often repeat the phrase, “God doesn't call the equipped—He equips the called.” But what if that well-meaning statement leaves out something essential? Throughout Scripture, the men God used most were not rushed into leadership—they were shaped, tested, humbled, and prepared long before they were ever placed in front of people. Moses learned obscurity before shepherding a nation, David fought private battles before public ones, Joseph managed faithfully before ruling, and the disciples followed long before they were sent. In this episode we explore the difference between being trained and being formed—between gaining ministry skills and becoming the kind of person God can trust with souls—and why recovering a biblical view of preparation may be one of the most important conversations for the next generation of church leaders.Today we're joined by Mitch Dobson, an instructor of Bible Survey at the Living Faith Bible Institute. His heart for discipleship and leadership development makes him especially well-suited for a conversation about how God prepares people for ministry, not just in knowledge but in character.Visit http://lfbi.org/learnmore

J.I. Packer once wrote, “What matters in life is not what you make of it, but what God makes of it for you.” That contrast becomes especially clear when it comes to money. When circumstances shift, and uncertainty rises, the quiet question surfaces: Will there be enough? Our culture tells us peace comes through self-provision—earning more, saving more, planning better. But Scripture invites us into a different posture: resting in a Father who provides. Look at the Birds: Provision Begins with Relationship In Matthew 6:26, Jesus directs our attention upward: “Look at the birds of the air…your heavenly Father feeds them.” Birds don't build financial models or stockpile reserves. Yet God sustains them. Jesus' point isn't irresponsibility—it's relationship. Behind every plan, paycheck, and effort stands a God who sees, knows, and provides. Throughout Scripture, this truth repeats like a steady drumbeat: Abraham climbs Mount Moriah in obedience, and God provides a ram (Genesis 22:13–14). The widow of Zarephath runs out of resources, and God sustains her jar of flour and jug of oil (1 Kings 17:14–16). Peter wonders how to pay the temple tax, and Jesus provides the exact coin in a fish's mouth (Matthew 17:27). From Genesis to Revelation, God's provision is precise, purposeful, and personal. Every Need, Not Every Wish Paul echoes this promise in Philippians 4:19: “My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Notice what Paul doesn't say. He doesn't promise every want, preference, or wish list. He promises to meet every need. And that supply doesn't flow from our economy, our income, or our investments—it flows from God's riches. Provision is not sourced in us. It's sourced in Him. Jesus Is Our Provision The truth goes even deeper. Jesus doesn't just provide—He is our provision. In John 6:35, He says, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger.” Peace, then, is not found in financial comfort or problem-free living. It's found in the presence of Christ. When we forget this, we drift into two familiar traps: Fear: What if there isn't enough? Self-reliance: I'll make sure there's enough. Both pull us away from trust. The Source Behind Everything We Have Scripture reminds us that God provides not only resources but the ability to obtain them. Moses tells Israel, “Remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth” (Deuteronomy 8:18). Our skills, opportunities, work ethic, and even our capacity to earn—all come from Him. When that truth settles in, something shifts. Financial security stops being something we manufacture and becomes something we receive. Trusting God as provider doesn't lead to inactivity. It frees us to work, plan, save, and give with joy. Our efforts become acts of stewardship rather than self-provision. Money becomes a place of spiritual formation rather than fear. That's why Jesus teaches us to pray for “daily bread” (Matthew 6:11). Not because God lacks resources—but because our hearts need daily dependence. Daily bread cultivates daily trust. Where Are You Looking for Provision? Take a moment to ask: Am I looking to my paycheck for security? My savings? My plans for the future? Or the hand of a Father who feeds the birds and calls me His child? Whether you're in a season of abundance or a season of need, Jesus doesn't just promise provision—He gives Himself. And He invites you to trust Him day by day. When we trade fear for faith, striving for surrender, and self-reliance for dependence, we discover the deep joy of resting in a Father who sees and provides. Go Deeper: A Daily Journey of Trust This is the journey explored in Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Devotional to Faithful Stewardship. It's an invitation to trust God as Provider, Owner, and Treasure in every financial decision. You can pick up a copy—or place a bulk order for your church or small group—at FaithFi.com/Shop. And if you're using the FaithFi app, you'll find excerpts woven into the first 21 daily Rhythms, helping you connect your financial decisions with your spiritual life each day. Start today by establishing a new rhythm—seeing your money not as your security, but as an opportunity to trust the God who provides. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 65 and plan to work for another 5 to 6 years. I have $65,000 in a Roth IRA that hasn't been invested. I've heard suggestions ranging from corporate bonds and CDs to an ETF. How should I think about investing this money? I'm 60, with a $700,000 pension lump sum, and am considering a buffered-income variable annuity for a few years before taking withdrawals. Is that a wise move? My husband and I are pastors with small 401(k)s. We're curious about crypto—can we move funds directly from a 401(k) to invest in it, and is that advisable? When financing a car, is it better for a married couple to put the loan in one spouse's name or both—and does that change later in life? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship List of Faith-Based Investment Fund Families IBIT iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF | Fidelity® Wise Origin® Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Perspectivalist, Uri Brito sits down with Jordan Bush to explore a deeper question behind today's financial debates: What should money be?This conversation moves beyond investing strategy and into theology, ethics, and anthropology. Money, they argue, is not neutral. It shapes trust, power, authority, and social structures. Throughout Scripture, honest scales, just weights, and protection of the vulnerable reveal that how a society structures its money affects how it treats its people.Jordan shares how his time ministering in Uruguay among Venezuelan immigrants exposed him to the devastating effects of currency collapse and hyperinflation. Churches, families, and businesses saw years of savings erased through monetary debasement. That experience led him to study the ethics of money production and eventually Bitcoin.The discussion traces the history of money—from gold and silver to fiat currency—and considers Bitcoin as a digital form of scarcity designed to resist inflation and centralized control. Gold and silver historically functioned as stable money because of their durability, scarcity, and trustworthiness. Fiat currency, by contrast, can be expanded at will, often benefiting governments and financial elites at the expense of ordinary people.Bitcoin attempts to combine the scarcity of precious metals with the portability and digital nature of modern currency. With a fixed supply of 21 million coins, it operates outside direct governmental control, raising important questions for Christians about limits, authority, stewardship, and economic justice.The episode also addresses Bitcoin's volatility. Jordan explains that price swings are normal in emerging technologies and compares Bitcoin's market cycles to seasons in agriculture or stages of human maturity. For long-term holders, volatility is not necessarily a sign of failure but part of a developing monetary network.The episode concludes with a brief discussion of Jordan's children's book, The Orange Umbrella—a story that introduces the themes behind Bitcoin without ever mentioning it directly.This is not merely a conversation about cryptocurrency. It is a theological reflection on money, trust, power, and the kind of economic systems that best reflect biblical principles.

In this powerful sermon from Redeemer Church in Midland, Texas, Pastor Josh Gatewood highlights in Act 9:32-43 how Jesus consistently calls, heals, and uses people whom society overlooks, doubts, or disqualifies. Throughout Scripture, Jesus moves toward the unlikely—sinners, outsiders, the broken, and the ordinary—not because of their qualifications, but because of His grace and purpose. God's kingdom advances not through human strength or status, but through surrendered hearts willing to respond in faith. The message encourages listeners to see themselves through Jesus' eyes rather than their past, failures, or labels. No one is too far gone, too weak, or too insignificant for God to use. When Jesus calls, He doesn't wait for perfection—He invites obedience, and He does the transforming work along the way. Website: redeemermidland.org Instagram: instagram.com/redeemermidland Facebook: facebook.com/RedeemerMidland   At Redeemer, we seek to be a Gospel-Centered, Missional Family. We sing songs to worship our Lord, we preach the Word of God from the Bible, and we love one another.   We would love to see you on a Sunday morning at 9:00 or 11:00 am at 3601 N. Lamesa Rd in Midland, Texas. 

Evangelism begins with worship. In this message, Pastor Tim encourages us that to engage in Spirit-empowered evangelism it must flow from Spirit-led worship. Throughout Scripture, God's people are called to sing, declare, and proclaim His glory among the nations. Worship has always been missional. When our hearts are captivated by the greatness of God, our mouths cannot stay silent about His salvation. Pastor Tim will challenge and equip you to: • Worship Christ as Lord • Depend on the Holy Spirit for boldness • Live on mission with intentional steps: Introduce, Invest, Invite If you have ever wondered how to share your faith naturally and courageously, this sermon will help you see that evangelism comes from an overflow of worship. When we delight in Jesus, the Spirit empowers us to declare what we have seen and heard. Download the message guide for this sermon at the link below: https://chicocommunity.church/watch

This past Sunday, Pastor Rheva continued the series Why Church? Why Gather? Why Studio? by helping us reflect on why the church exists—and why gathering actually matters. Throughout Scripture, God does not save individuals in isolation; He forms a people for the sake of the world. Our faith was never meant to be lived alone.She shared that the church exists to host God's presence, form God's people, and participate in God's renewal of the world.Here are the core “whys” Pastor Rheva walked us through:Worship + PresenceTeaching + The WordFormation + DiscipleshipCommunity + BelongingCare + HealingUnity + ReconciliationMission + WitnessAs this series continues, Studio's prayer is that the church would not simply be something people attend—but a people they become: gathered around Jesus, anchored in truth, formed in love, walking in unity, and sent for the sake of the world.For more info, you can go to our website, check us out on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. If you would like to support STUDIO financially, you can do so here.Have a great week!

Trusting God for our financial needs feels especially real when life gets tight. When savings shrink, markets fluctuate, or expenses rise faster than income, the pressure exposes what—or who—we truly rely on. Long before budgets, retirement accounts, or emergency funds existed, one man stood on a mountain believing God could provide in the most impossible circumstances. His story in Genesis 22 gives us one of the most powerful names of God in all of Scripture: “The Lord Will Provide.” And it offers a blueprint for faithful stewardship today. Provision Is Forged in Pressure Trusting God's provision rarely happens in comfort. It's forged in seasons when resources feel thin, and the future looks uncertain. Throughout Scripture, God's people learn His faithfulness not at banquets, but in deserts. Not in surplus, but in scarcity. Whether wandering in the wilderness, facing famine, or standing before overwhelming odds, they discover that provision isn't merely about resources—it's about relationship. God is not simply someone who provides. He is the Provider. But biblical faith isn't naïve optimism, nor is it passive resignation. Faith rests in God's character, moves forward in obedience, and trusts Him with the outcome. Abraham on the Mountain Genesis 22 is one of the clearest pictures of this kind of faith. God asks Abraham to offer Isaac, his son of promise. It's a shocking command, and we're meant to feel its weight. Isaac is the one through whom God promised to build a nation “as numerous as the stars.” Without Isaac, the covenant appears to collapse. Yet Abraham obeys. Before climbing the mountain, he tells his servants, “Stay here with the donkey; the boy and I will go over there and worship; then we will come back to you” (Genesis 22:5). Notice what he says: we will come back. The author of Hebrews explains Abraham's reasoning: “He considered that God was able even to raise him from the dead” (Hebrews 11:19). Abraham trusted that God's promise was more certain than the circumstances he could see. And when Abraham raised the knife, God intervened—not before the climb, not halfway up the mountain, but at the exact moment when obedience and trust met. A ram was provided in Isaac's place. It's there Abraham names the place: “The Lord will provide” (Genesis 22:14). What “The Lord Will Provide” Really Means To say God provides isn't to say He always provides in the way we expect. It means His character is generous, attentive, and faithful. He knows our needs before we ask. He meets them according to His wisdom—not our timeline. That shifts how we think about financial provision. Scripture commends diligence. “The hand of the diligent makes rich” (Proverbs 10:4). It warns against laziness. But diligence and provision are not the same thing. We work. God provides the harvest. Modern financial fear often comes from trying to secure every possible outcome. We want guarantees. We want certainty. We want control. But the great enemy of faith isn't need—it's self-reliance. When we believe we are our own providers, we shoulder a burden we were never designed to carry. The apostle Paul writes, “My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). Notice the scale and the source: According to His riches, not ours. Three Ways Trust Changes Our Stewardship When we truly believe God provides, three things begin to shift. 1. We Plan Without Panic Wisdom plans for the future. Scripture affirms preparation and foresight. But planning becomes idolatry when it tries to eliminate dependence. Trust allows us to budget, save, and invest without fear driving every decision. Our spreadsheets serve us—they don't rule us. 2. We Give Without Fear Generosity flows from security. If we believe God replenishes, we can release. Hudson Taylor famously said, “God's work done in God's way will never lack God's supply.” When God is our provider, generosity becomes an act of confidence, not recklessness. 3. We Endure Lean Seasons With Hope Scarcity is not wasted space in the life of faith. Lean seasons refine us. They remind us that our ultimate security rests not in accounts, assets, or accolades—but in the Lord who sees. Abraham learned something profound on that mountain—not just that God provides, but who God is. Provision in Scripture is relational. God provides so His people know Him more deeply and so the watching world sees His faithfulness. Faithful Stewardship Without Fear Trusting God's provision doesn't mean we stop budgeting, working, or stewarding wisely. It means we do those things without trying to control the narrative. Our responsibility is faithfulness. God's responsibility is provision. When life tightens and financial pressure mounts, Genesis 22 invites us to lift our eyes beyond the mountain in front of us and remember the name Abraham proclaimed: The Lord will provide. And He still does. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: How can I have a loving, respectful conversation with my parents—especially my dad—about whether they're truly ready for retirement and financially self-sufficient? Also, he started taking Social Security last year while still working. Should he reconsider delaying benefits, and what options does he have now? A nonprofit that owned a property has shut down, and I'd like to sell it and give the proceeds to a church. Are there special forms or steps I need to take to handle that transfer properly? I'm turning 60 and want to prepare wisely for retirement. I have a seven-figure balance across my 401(k) and investments. What should I focus on over the next several years—how much is enough, withdrawal planning, Social Security timing, and long-term care—so I won't become a burden on my kids? As I plan my estate, what does the Bible mean by leaving an inheritance to our children's children, and how should I think about what to leave my grandchildren? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives by Ron Blue with Jeremy White Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get the NEW APP - Apple Google PlayGod Works Through Human Hands — Our Obedience, His FaithfulnessMost men are waiting on God to move… while God is waiting on them to obey.Throughout Scripture, God accomplishes supernatural things through ordinary people who are willing to take a step of faith. From Moses raising his staff, to the servants filling jars with water, to the priests stepping into a raging river — miracles didn't happen instead of obedience… they happened because of it.In this powerful episode of New Path New You, Ron Cool unpacks how God partners with men who are willing to act, why delayed obedience can keep you stuck, and how your simple “yes” can unlock God's faithfulness in your life, marriage, leadership, and purpose.If you've been waiting for clarity, confidence, or the “perfect moment,” this episode will challenge you to stop waiting and start moving.Because God doesn't just work for us — He works through us.

There's something profoundly human about forgetting. We forget appointments, birthdays, even to pick up our kids from school. But when it comes to faith, forgetting isn't just inconvenient—it's dangerous.Throughout Scripture, we find a persistent, almost urgent plea: Don't forget. This isn't merely about memory; it's about survival—the survival of faith across generations.__________Get more out of today's teaching by visiting our Church Online page for things like our community guide, a weekly devotional, and the teaching slides. EthosOH.com/churchonline

Throughout Scripture, worship is always a response to encountering the weight and greatness of God. This sermon challenges us to see that worship isn't just an hour on Sunday—it's the way we live the other 167 hours of our week. Whether we eat, drink, work, lead our families, or gather in church, every part of life can reflect how much weight God truly carries in our hearts. How much weight does God carry in your life? #Worship #GloryOfGod #ChristianLiving #BoerneTX

Guest Speaker Rachael Wade kicked off our new Year of Prayer teaching series: Spirit Teach Us To Pray. Throughout Scripture, we see that it's the Holy Spirit who awakens our hunger for God, often through desperation and discipleship. This message reminds us that our desire for a deeper prayer life doesn't come from self discipline or participation in the Christian life alone, but from the Spirit stirring our hearts longing to commune with our Father in every circumstance. We are so glad you've joined New North Church for service today! If this is your first time with us, we are honored to have you and we want to get to know you more personally - please, fill out our digital connection card. http://bit.ly/nncconnect Do you have questions about life or need prayer? We would love to hear from you. Submit a request here: http://bit.ly/nncprayer New North is financially sustained through your partnership. Thank you for your generosity as you consider giving online. http://bit.ly/nncgiveJoin us in person on Sundays at 8:30am, 10am and 12pm in San Francisco! Plan your visit: https://www.newnorth.church/plan-your-visitSTAY CONNECTED:Website: https://www.newnorth.churchInstagram: http://bit.ly/nncinstagramFacebook: http://bit.ly/nncfacebookSpotify: http://bit.ly/nncpodcast

In this episode, we take up one of the most painful and frequently asked questions in the church: What about God and divorce? Whether someone is in a miserable marriage, has been left by a spouse, or is carrying the wounds of divorce, this conversation is both challenging and important.  We unpack the biblical meaning of covenant, and why divorce is so devastating—not because it ranks highest on some hierarchy of sins, but because it tears apart something God intended to reflect His faithful love. "God hates divorce" is not condemnation, but is a window into the grief of a Father who sees His children wounded. Jesus' own words acknowledge that divorce exists "because of the hardness of human hearts," naming both the reality of human cruelty and the complexity of real-life situations. And we offer careful discernment rather than simplistic rules. There are reasons not to leave a marriage, and there are situations where separation or divorce may become necessary. This episode invites listeners to seek God's wisdom above all else, to invite trusted voices who will ask hard questions, and to pray honestly, "Lord, who are You calling me to be in this season?" Throughout Scripture, God speaks to His people as a betrayed yet faithful spouse—and this episode holds that tension: the seriousness of covenant, the pain of its rupture, and the relentless faithfulness of a God who does not abandon us, even when we break faith with Him. These articles from Dr. Carol may be helpful for you:  5 Ways to Pray About Your Troubled Marriage Is My Marriage Toxic? How to Know if You Are Released From Your Marriage Find out more about Dr. Carol Ministries in-person intensives - a safe place to unpack your story around intimacy and relationships, and experience Jesus coming into your story to bring healing and wholeness.        Find out more about individual coaching with Dr. Carol        Dr. Carol loves to hear from you. You can send a confidential message here.    

What kind of life are you building? Jesus teaches us that everyone who hears His words and acts on them is like a wise person who builds their house on the rock. When the storms come—and they will come—that house stands firm.Throughout Scripture, floods represent God's judgment and the consequences of our choices. But here's the hope: a remnant always survives. Jesus faced the ultimate flood of judgment on the cross and emerged victorious through the resurrection. When we follow Him, we build our lives on the only foundation that can withstand every storm.Your life is built one decision at a time. Are you building on the solid rock of Christ's teachings, or on the shifting sand of your own desires? The foundation you choose today determines whether you'll stand or fall when the floods come. Build wisely. Build on the Rock.

Pastor Tyler's new book "Firebrand" is available NOW! https://www.ironworks.media/bookstore... Check out IronWorks Media, our Christian resource network! https://www.ironworks.media/ Give to support the ministry of Calvary Chapel Trussville! https://tithe.ly/give?c=411758 More info on Calvary Chapel Trussville!

Welcome to our Reveal podcast,When we talk about baptism,We are talking about far more than just water. Baptism is a powerful symbol of transformation. Throughout Scripture, water represents cleansing, renewal, and new beginnings—and baptism brings all of that together in one intentional act.In the New Testament, baptism is closely tied to repentance and faith. Jesus himself was baptized, not because he needed cleansing, but to identify with humanity and model obedience to God. Later, his followers are baptized as an outward expression of an inward change—a public declaration that they've chosen to leave their old life behind and step into a new one with God.To support this ministry and help us continue our God-given mission, click here:Subscribe to our channel for the latest sermons:https://www.youtube.com/@revealvineyardLearn more about Vineyard Church Reveal Campus:https://www.revealvineyard.com/Follow us on social media!Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/vineyardrevealcampus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/RevealVineyard

In a world that teaches us to satisfy every craving instantly, the Bible invites us into a different kind of hunger. Throughout Scripture, God's people fast to deepen their desire for Him. In our series, Hungry for God, Pastor Brandon will help us rediscover fasting as a life-giving spiritual discipline that sharpens our prayers, humbles our hearts, and reorients our lives around God's presence and purposes. Whether fasting is familiar or foreign to you, this series will help you learn how to hunger for God.

Permit me to share a story from my own experience that helps explain why it took me so long to preach a sermon series on the book of Revelation. When I was twenty-eight, I had been ordained as a minister of the gospel only a short time earlier and was serving as an interim pastor at Calvary Baptist Church, a congregation of roughly three hundred people. The church was struggling. Years of poor leadership decisions and the dismissal of one of its senior pastors had left it in a fragile state. I was young, inexperienced, and keenly aware that I had far more to learn than to offer. When Calvary eventually called its next senior pastorwhom I will refer to as Bobhe inherited both me and another assistant pastor. Less than a year into his tenure, Bob called me into his office to discuss my future. He asked what I hoped for in ministry, and I told him I planned to finish seminary and learn as much as I could from him, given his decades of pastoral experience. Then, without warning, he asked me what I believed about the rapture. Caught off guard, I answered honestly: I believed Christ would return for His people, but I was not yet certain whether that would be before, during, or after the tribulation. Bob paused, looked at me, and said simply, Well, thats a problem. It was a problem because Calvarys doctrinal statement treated a pre-tribulation rapture not as a point of discussion, but as a nonnegotiable. One passage often cited in support of that view is 1 Thessalonians 5:9For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. Yet the wrath Paul describes there is not the suffering believers endure in this world, but the final judgment reserved for the condemned. That conversation marked me deeply. It revealed how quickly the book of Revelationand the questions surrounding itcan become a test of loyalty rather than a call to faithfulness. And it helps explain why I approached Revelation for so many years with caution, hesitation, and no small measure of pastoral concern. Suffering (Tribulation) is a Part of the Christian Life (v. 9) What troubled me about Pastor Bob and the doctrinal statement Calvary Baptist Church has since removed is that this view is difficult to reconcile with Jesus own teaching on what Christians should expect as His followers. Jesus said plainly, You will be hated by all for my names sake (Matt. 10:22). And again, In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world (John 16:33). The apostles echoed the same expectation. Paul warned new believers, Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God just after he was stoned and left for dead outside of the city of Lystra (Acts 14:22). Peter likewise urged Christians not to be shocked by suffering, but to see it as participation in Christs own path: Do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you rejoice insofar as you share Christs sufferings (1 Pet. 4:1213). The word tribulation simply means affliction. In Revelation, tribulation is never portrayed as some vague or theoretical idea, but as a real and immediate experience for faithful believers.1It is the context of Johns exile, the churches suffering, and the cry of the martyrs. Tribulation is the setting in which the church endures, bears witness, and waits for Christs victory. Let me press this one step further. In Matthew 24, Jesus warned His disciples, And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of the birth pains (vv. 68). Then He said, They will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my names sake. And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another. And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come (vv. 914). Jesus then went on to prophesy about events we know with certainty occurred in AD 70: So when you see the abomination of desolation spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be (vv. 1521). History records that everything Jesus warned would happen did, in fact, occur. Roman soldiers under Titus breached Jerusalem, entered the temple, slaughtered priests while sacrifices were being offered, piled bodies in the sanctuary, erected pagan images, and offered sacrifices to Roman gods, including sacrifices to the emperor himself. The temple was dismantled stone by stone, fulfilling Jesus words: Truly, I say to you, there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down (Matt. 24:2). John lived through those events. More than twenty years later, he wrote to seven churches not as a distant observer but as a participant: I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. The question to consider until we reach Revelation 6 is: What tribulation is John participating in? The persecution of Christians didnt end in AD 70. What began as local opposition has become global. Some regions where the gospel once flourishedsuch as North Korea and Nigeriaare now among the most dangerous for Christians. A challenging reality of the Christian life is that faithfulness to Jesus often leads to suffering. John introduces himself not as an exception, but as a fellow participant in this tribulation. Whatever view of the tribulation you currently hold, know that John and the first-century church were convinced they were living in itnot as a fixed or future timetable, but as a present season of suffering that began with Christs ascension and will end only with His return. Jesus Will Not Abandon the Christian in Life (vv. 9-16) When John received his visions, it was on the Lords Day. Before anything was revealed about Gods plan for the world, it was a day set apart for worship. Many believe this is the earliest technical use of the Lords Day to refer to Sundaythe day of Christs resurrection and the dawn of the new creation. What is most significant is that John hears from the Lord while worshiping the Lord. While in a state of worship, John hears a loud voice behind him like a trumpet. This recalls Sinai, where we are told, there were thunders and lightnings and a very loud trumpet blast, so that all the people in the camp trembled (Exod. 19:16). The trumpet-like voice commands John: Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches (v. 11). When John turns, he does not see a trumpet, but seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man (v. 12). Do not miss the significance: the lampstands represent the churches (v. 20), and Jesus stands in their midst. The Greek word mesos means among and in the middle. In other words, in the midst of tribulation and suffering, Jesus has not abandoned His people. This is the fulfillment of His promise: Behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age (Matt. 28:20). The long golden sash Jesus wears is that of a priest (cf. Exod. 28:4; 29:5). His golden sash is not a fashion statement but a firm reminder that He is our great High Priest, who intercedes on our behalf as the One who advocates for all those He has redeemed through the shedding of His blood once and for all. As Hebrews 7 tells us, He holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever. Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them (vv. 2425). The hairs on Jesus head are white like the whitest wool, as Daniel describes the Ancient of Days: His clothing was white as snow, and the hair of his head like pure wool; his throne was fiery flames; its wheels were burning fire (Dan. 7:9). Here Jesus is identified with eternal wisdom and divine purityequal with the Father, yet uniquely the Son. He is the Everlasting One, and His wisdom is infinite. Jesus eyes are like a flame of fire. This does not mean He has literal beams shooting from His eyes any more than the sharp two-edged sword from His mouth is a literal sword (v. 16). His eyes blaze like fire, revealing that nothing escapes His sightno motive hidden, no deed overlooked, and no wound His people suffer that will go unnoticed. His knowledge knows no bounds. Our Saviors feet are like burnished bronze. There is no tiptoeing with Him. Our great High Priest and awesome King embodies unshakable strength as the One who will judge the nations with perfect justice and holy resolve. He is omnipotentsolid, sure, and infinitely strong. The voice of our Savior matches His divine wisdom, all-encompassing knowledge, and unequalled strength as Yahweh. When He speaks, He does so with pervasive power: For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authoritiesall things were created through him and for him (Col. 1:16). His wordevery wordcarries divine weight. Why does this matter in light of what John and the churches suffered? Why does this matter for your brothers and sisters in North Korea or Nigeria? Why does this matter for us today? It matters because in the right hand of the Divine Sonwho is infinitely wise, who sees His bride perfectly and completely, and who stands with omnipotent strengththe seven angels of the seven churches are held. Whether these refer to messengers who shepherd the churches or to angels with a particular charge, the point is unmistakable: His servants belong to Him. They are His, and they serve under His protection. We are told that Jesus not only holds the seven stars and stands among His churches, but that from His mouth comes a sharp, two-edged sword (see Heb. 4:12). There are no dull edges on this sword, because it is the Word of Godliving and powerful, with the authority to judge, cut, cure, wound, and heal. And if that were not enough, His face shines like the sun in full strength. What John sees is Jesus in His gloryholy, majestic, and awesome, worthy of all our worship. This Jesus is not the one often presented as safe, domesticated, or passive. This is the glorified Lord, whose word creates, sustains, and brings all things to account. Richard Phillips wrote of these verses: This vision does not show us what Jesus looks like but rather what Jesus is like,symbolically depicting his person and work. Biblically trained Christians organize the work of Christ in his three offices of Prophet, Priest, and King.2 With Jesus, there is No Need to Fear in Life or in Death (vv. 17-20) It is no wonder, then, that when John sees this Jesus, he falls at His feet as though dead (v. 17). The beloved disciple, who once leaned against Jesus chest during His earthly ministry, is now an old manweathered, worn, and wiser. Confronted with the risen and exalted Christ, John collapses in reverent awe. Yet it is this Jesus, standing in the midst of His church, who places the same right hand that holds His servants upon John. Johns response is both right and appropriate. It echoes Isaiahs encounter with the Holy One, in which he saw the Lord seated on the throne and heard the seraphim cry, Holy, holy, holy (Isa. 6:3). Isaiah responded in terror, Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts! (Isa. 6:5). Johns response also mirrors Habakkuks reaction before a holy God: I hear, and my body trembles; my lips quiver at the sound; rottenness enters into my bones; my legs tremble beneath me. Yet I will quietly wait for the day of trouble (Hab. 3:16). Throughout Scripture, when sinful people encounter Gods holiness, fear is the natural response. But notice Jesus response to Johns terror: Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades (vv. 1718). Fear not. Why? Because unlike Caesar, the Roman Empire, or any power that seeks to silence Christs church, Johnand all who belong to the true churchbelong to Jesus. He is the One who died to save John from his sins, the One who rose again to secure his salvation and resurrection, and the One who now holds the keys of Death and Hades. This is why Jesus can promise all who belong to Him: My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand I and the Father are one (John 10:2730). With Jesus, there is no need to fearnot in life, and not in death. Conclusion Let me leave you with three points of application in light of all that we have seen in these verses: First: Dont be surprised by sufferingfaithful Christians have always faced tribulation. If tribulation is the normal setting of the Christian life, then suffering is not a sign that something has gone wrong; it is often a sign that something has gone right. John does not present himself as an exception but as a partner in tribulation, reminding us that faithfulness to Jesus does not remove us from affliction but places us squarely within it. So when hardship comespressure tocompromise, opposition at work, isolation for following Christ, or quiet endurance no one else seeswe are not abandoned; we are walking the same path marked out by the apostles, the early church, and believers around the world today. Second: Find your security in Christ, not in your circumstances. Revelation does not calm our fears by minimizing danger but by revealing Christ. John is not comforted by explanations or timelines but by the presence and power of Jesusthe eternal Son, our great High Priest, the all-seeing Judge, the omnipotent King, and the living Lord who has conquered death itself. Fear loosens its grip not when life becomes safe but when Jesus becomes central, because the size of our fear is always tied to how clearly we see Christ. Third: Do not fear deaththe One who died and rose again holds the keys of life and death. Because this Jesus holds the keys of Death and Hades, nothingnot persecution, loss, or even deathhas the final word over those who belong to Him. The same hand that holds the stars touches His servants, and the same voice that thunders like many waters speaks reassurance to fearful saints. So we need not fear what tomorrow brings or what awaits us at the end. With Jesus, there is no need to fearnot in life, nor in death. 1 Revelation consistently presents tribulation not as a distant, isolated future event, but as the lived experience of faithful believersexpressed through imprisonment, martyrdom, deception, and violent oppositionbeginning in the first century and continuing until the final vindication of Gods people (Rev. 1:9; 2:910; 6:911; 12:17; 13:7; 17:6; 20:4). 2 Richard D. Phillips, Revelation, ed. Richard D. Phillips, Philip Graham Ryken, and Daniel M. Doriani, Reformed Expository Commentary (Phillipsburg, NJ: PR Publishing, 2017), 64.

⁠>> Click HERE to get free visuals, handouts and discussion questions for Conversational Counseling sent straight to your email!

One of the most overlooked aspects of the Holy Spirit in our world is the overwhelming life that is made possible by his presence. Although this absolutely applies to the new, resurrection life we can experience in the New Creation thanks to the sacrifice of Jesus, the Spirit of Life goes even deeper in our world, now. Throughout Scripture we see God's Spirit as the vivifying source of all life in Creation, we see the Spirit drawing humanity away from our violent and warlike tendencies and into life-sustaining peace, and we see the Spirit shaping Christ-followers into fountains of God's life and abundance in a still broken world. The Spirit helps us champion the life of the downtrodden, protect the life of the vulnerable, and even nurture the life of our physical world. In a time filled with decay, pain, violence, and death, it is vital to remember that the Spirit within us is working to transform us into sources of life in our world now, not just in the resurrection. What might it look like to delve deeply into the life-giving richness of the Holy Spirit this year, allowing New Creation to spring up everywhere we go, and thus bringing the life of our Creator into our broken world?

In this message, we're reminded that we were never meant to follow Jesus in isolation—we were created for belonging. Throughout Scripture, we see that God Himself exists in perfect community and invites us into a life where love, growth, and healing happen through relationships with Him and with one another. True transformation doesn't start with having it all together; it begins when we find a place to belong and allow God to shape us through authentic, life-giving community.

Throughout Scripture, God's people marked moments of divine provision with physical reminders so that future generations would remember God's faithfulness. In Joshua 4, after crossing the Jordan, Israel was told to set up stones as a permanent testimony. Not to celebrate themselves, but to declare, “The Lord did this.” Vision Sunday is our version of that moment. This message celebrated what God did in and through CCC last year—lives changed, communities impacted, the Gospel proclaimed—and cast a vision for where we're headed in 2026. But this was more than a financial report. It was a declaration of gratitude and a call to continued faithfulness. Because every dollar given is a seed sown into eternity. Every ministry launched, every child discipled, every person baptized, every meal served, and every soul reached is part of the story God is writing through us. As we look ahead, we aren't just building a church. We're building a memorial of faith that future generations will point to and say, “That's where God moved.”

What would change if you truly saw people the way Jesus sees them? In this week’s message from our Revival series, Pastor John S. Dickerson calls us back to the heart of God for those who are far from Him. Throughout Scripture, revival begins when God’s people are moved with compassion for the lost and are willing to act with courage, humility, and urgency. This message walks through biblical examples, real stories, and Jesus’ own words to help us recognize the spiritual needs around us and respond with love and obedience. You will be encouraged to see how God works through everyday believers, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to bring hope, salvation, and transformation through simple acts of faithfulness. This sermon also connects with our Revival devotional and group study resources, helping individuals and groups take practical steps toward prayer, bold conversations, and inviting others to encounter Jesus. “The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10 #ConnectionPointeChurch #Revival #PastorJohnDickerson NEXT STEPSHave you made a decision to follow Jesus and now wondering what your next step is? We want to help! https://www.connectionpointe.org/nextsteps/ ABOUT CONNECTION POINTEAt Connection Pointe, our mission is to connect people to Jesus and each other. Whether you've been around church your whole life or this is a brand new journey, we have a place for you and we hope your journey will include joining us at a Connection Pointe location or online at https://connectionpointe.org/live Find locations, videos, and more info about us at https://www.connectionpointe.org/ FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/connectionpointeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/connect_cp Find out more about our lead pastor, John S. Dickerson: https://www.connectionpointe.org/leadpastor

Throughout Scripture, the Angel of the Lord appears to people who feel unqualified and insecure about God's calling on their lives. Moses hid in the wilderness for 40 years before God called him to lead Israel out of Egypt. Gideon was literally hiding when the Angel called him a mighty warrior. In both cases, God didn't give pep talks or boost their confidence. Instead, He offered His presence with the simple promise: I will be with you. God doesn't fix our insecurity by giving us self-confidence; He gives us His presence. The answer to our feelings of inadequacy isn't found in us but in God himself.Support the show

This message teaches that giving is a basic Christian value rooted in the heart, not a requirement for salvation but an expression of trust, worship, and obedience to God. Drawing from Mark 12 and the story of the poor widow, it emphasizes that God does not measure generosity by amount but by sacrifice, motive, and faith, showing that giving reveals one's heart toward God. Jesus neither condemns the rich nor stops the widow, highlighting that generosity looks different for each person but always reflects worship directed to God rather than institutions or people. Throughout Scripture—before the Law, under the Law, and affirmed by Jesus—giving and tithing are presented as responses to recognizing God as the true source of all provision. The message challenges believers to live with an eternal perspective, resisting excuses rooted in hurt, fear, or preference, and instead to grow in maturity by faithfully giving as an act of worship, trusting that God's blessing includes not only material provision but also His favor, presence, and lasting impact on both this life and eternity.If you are in need of prayer, we would love to pray with you. We have prayer partners available every Sunday morning at our 8:30am and 10:30am services. You can also email all prayer requests to prayer@millcitywi.com. Also, please join us for the most important service of the week...Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting every Wednesday at 7:00pm!

The God Who Is Faithful — Sermon SummaryEvery believer reaches a moment when faith is tested—when prayers feel delayed, obedience feels unnoticed, and trust feels costly. In those moments, Scripture reminds us that God does not change. He is faithful, not because of our strength, but because of His nature.God describes Himself as “abounding in love and faithfulness” (Exodus 34:6–7). The Hebrew word for faithfulness, 'emet, means stable, reliable, and trustworthy—something you can lean on with confidence. This same word describes Moses' steady hands in battle (Exodus 17) and the trustworthy leaders of Israel (Exodus 18:21).Throughout Scripture, God proves His faithfulness again and again. Abraham trusted God's promise despite impossible circumstances, and his faith was credited as righteousness (Genesis 15:6). Israel believed God after the Red Sea (Exodus 14:31) but struggled to trust Him when fear outweighed promise—teaching us that faith is not believing God exists, but believing God is faithful.David trusted God in the face of giants and “walked in 'emet” before the Lord (1 Kings 3:6). God promised David a kingdom established forever (2 Samuel 7:16), even when Israel later questioned God's faithfulness in exile (Psalm 89:49).The New Testament answers that question through Jesus. Introduced as the Son of David and the Son of Abraham (Matthew 1:1), Jesus is the fulfillment of every promise. Through Him, God confirms His faithfulness to His covenant (Romans 15:8–9). Jesus is God's faithfulness in human form—the unshakable Rock and eternal King.Because God is faithful, His promises still stand, He will not abandon His people, and our future is secure. Our response is trust—to he'emin, to “amen” God—leaning our full weight on the One who is completely reliable. The story of Scripture, and the story of our lives, is the story of the God who remains faithful from beginning to end.

Life rarely unfolds without surprise, hardship, or moments that test our emotional and spiritual limits. This Christian devotional explores how God prepares believers to live with courageous faith, even in the face of fear, uncertainty, and overwhelming circumstances. Rooted in John 16:33, this devotion reminds us that while trouble is unavoidable, peace and victory are found in Christ—who has already overcome the world. Highlights God prepares His people for hardship before it arrives Jesus offers peace even while acknowledging life’s troubles Courageous faith grows when we remain connected to Christ The Holy Spirit strengthens, guides, and sustains believers God’s grace meets us before and after moments of failure Abiding in Christ replaces fear with peace and clarity Victory comes through reliance on Jesus, not self-effort Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: Divinely Prepared to Live with Courageous FaithBy: Jennifer Slattery Bible Reading:“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33, NIV Most of us don’t like to be caught off guard, hit with something we weren’t expecting. Those situations can feel disorienting if not overwhelming. Not long ago, a friend shared an experience with me that, in the moment, triggered all of her internal alarm systems, resulting in her landing in total freak-out mode. In short, she and her husband decided to attend a small group for those enduring chronic anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges. She went to receive encouragement in her long and arduous healing journey from complex trauma, and her husband accompanied her to offer support. She walked into the meeting room expecting something similar to a Bible study with sharing opportunities similar to what occurs with Alcoholics Anonymous. Mentally and emotionally unprepared for a deep discussion on trauma, she quickly found herself overwhelmed and embarrassed by her intense reaction. The following week, however, she responded much differently, largely because she now knew what to expect and had been able to talk through this with her therapist. This allowed her to bring tools, like her current knitting project, as a grounding tool when she sensed herself becoming overwhelmed. The disciples Jesus spoke with in today’s verse would soon face numerous overwhelming and life-threatening circumstances that could’ve easily triggered panic, causing them to lash out physically or verbally, flee or withdraw from the danger, and therefore their calling, or become paralyzed by their fear. The Lord knew this. He grasped how difficult life would soon become for His first-century followers. That understanding, coupled with His incomprehensible love, motivated Him to prepare them for what lay ahead. First, He told them that one of them would betray Him, Peter would deny Him, and all of them would abandon Him during His darkest hour. But recognize, He didn’t say this to shame them but instead to help them, post failure, to return to Him and receive His grace. He also said that they’d experience persecution and even death for their faith. First, however, He spoke powerful promises to encourage and strengthen their trembling souls. Although He told them that He’d soon be leaving, and they couldn’t join, He also assured them that He wasn’t abandoning them. He was going to prepare a place for them and would eventually return for them, thereby declaring that their hardship wouldn’t get the final say. His love and grace would. He also let them know that they wouldn’t have to face their upcoming difficulties, or any other aspect of life, alone. He’d send them God the Holy Spirit, to strengthen, guide, and teach them, and speak through them. Then, in John 15:1-8, He spoke words that, when applied, have the capacity to bolster the most timid souls. In verses 4-5, He said, Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. That was their survival plan. Their freak-out escape route. When overpowered and overwhelmed, they weren’t to rely on themselves. They needed to turn and draw near to, remain vitally connected to, and spiritually alert to, His presence at work within them. He would give them everything they needed to live as the victorious conquerors He was calling them to be. They would overcome because He, their Savior, had already overcome. Intersecting Life & Faith: God still prepares His children for the hard things to come. Throughout Scripture, we read numerous warnings of the unavoidable difficulties ahead–sickness, wars and rumors of wars, natural disasters, relational storms with people who act antagonistically to our faith. But the Lord also describes, in detail, how to stand strong even when the ground beneath us feels ready to give way. As we “abide” or “remain” in Him through prayer, Bible reading, connecting with other Christ-followers, listening for His voice, and resting in His presence, He steadily and progressively replaces our fear with courage and peace, our confusion with clarity, and our heartache with joy. Equally important, He speaks of His grace before our moment of moral failure so that we know we can return to it and rely upon it. Phrased differently, He reminds us that His grace wasn’t His backup plan. It has been His life-saving, soul-nurturing strategy since the beginning of time. No matter what we encounter, we can trust that His grace is sufficient, for His strength is perfected, or reaches its full expression, in our weakness–when our weakness draws us closer to Him, that is. Further Reading:Matthew 26:411 Corinthians 16:13-14Proverbs 22:3 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This is the beginning of the book of Exodus, a pivotal story in the history of Israel. Throughout Scripture, Israel is often reminded that God is the one who led His people out of bondage and out of Egypt; it's a way to point to His power, His kindness, and His covenant faithfulness to fulfill His promises. We meet Moses, the lowly Hebrew who is rescued from destruction, raised in pharaoh's house, grows up only to kill another man, and flee town. When given instructions from the Lord, He cowers and makes excuses. This is not exactly the kind of guy we might choose to deliver a nation from oppression, but that's kind of the point. God regularly uses weak and sinful people to show His power and divine authority.Exodus 1 - 1:13 . Exodus 2 – 4:28 . Exodus 3 – 8:44 . Exodus 4 – 13:49 . Exodus 5 – 20:10 . Exodus 6 – 25:03 . Psalm 23 – 27:23 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

As we close out our And Then series, we turn our focus to Vision - what God shows us next and how He invites us to see through His eyes. Throughout Scripture, God reveals His plans by asking His people a simple but powerful question: “What do you see?” This message explores how vision often comes through revelation, disruption, and trust in God's faithfulness to complete what He begins.

Throughout Scripture, we see the power of words spoken in faith. Decrees are not wishful thinking or positive vibes; they are alignment. When we decree, we are coming into agreement with what God has already said and positioning ourselves to receive what Jesus already paid for.Listen to today's episode, save it, download and even use the following to revise as you see fit and record it for yourself. YOUR WORDS HAVE POWER!And if you're ready to get your financial house in order--aligned with God's Kingdom, join the K⁠ingdom Finance Masterclass: KINGDOM FINANCE MASTERCLASSmailchi.mp⁠⁠This is a 2-part masterclass--the first session is 1/25. Learn more and register here: KINGDOM FINANCE MASTERCLASSmailchi.mp⁠⁠Decree for 2026 .I decree that 2026 is a year of divine alignment, acceleration, and visible victory in Jesus' name.I decree health in my body, clarity in my mind, peace in my soul, and strength in my spirit. Every system in my body comes into order with the Word of God. I walk in divine health, supernatural energy, and sustained vitality.I decree breakthrough over every area that was delayed, resisted, or blocked in previous seasons. What was stuck is now moving. What was restrained is now released. What was hidden is now revealed.I decree prosperity with purpose. Increase flows to me, through me, and for me so the Kingdom of God is advanced, families are blessed, and needs are met without strain or fear. I will not chase provision. Provision will pursue me.I decree fresh revelation, spiritual clarity, and prophetic insight. My ears are open. My heart is sensitive. My spirit is tuned to the voice of the Lord. I will not be confused, distracted, or deceived. I walk in truth, wisdom, and discernment.I decree fresh oil and renewed anointing. I am not running on yesterday's grace. I receive new strength, new fire, new hunger, and new authority for this new season.I decree restoration of what was lost, stolen, delayed, or damaged. Time is redeemed. Joy is restored. Peace is returned. Relationships are healed. Hope is revived.I decree open doors no man can shut, divine connections, divine timing, and divine favor. I walk into rooms God prepared before I arrived. I stand in opportunities that only Heaven could arrange.I decree that I am fruitful, effective, and unstoppable in Christ. I do not merely survive 2026. I thrive. I do not shrink back. I advance. I do not settle. I build.I decree that the goodness of the Lord overtakes me, the blessing of the Lord surrounds me, and the purposes of God are fulfilled through me.This is my year of breakthrough, blessing, revelation, restoration, and harvest.I receive it.I walk in it.I build with it.I testify of it.In Jesus' mighty name, amen.

In this message, we're reminded of the most essential truth of the Christian life: God loves us, and He's calling us back to Him as our first love. Throughout Scripture, God constantly calls His people to turn from the mindset of obsessively doing things for Him without first being deeply in love with Him and letting that love be shared. The path back to our first love isn't trying harder—it's beholding the fact that we love because He first loved us.

Throughout Scripture we see God using unlikely people, flawed people, people who failed, people just like us. In today's PowerPoint message, Pastor Jack Graham makes clear what distinguished these great champions of our faith and assures us that we, too, will find strength for the battles we face when we call on the name of the Lord. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/395/29?v=20251111