Podcasts about unmerited

Gospel John 15:9-17 Jesus said to his disciples: “As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and remain in his love. “I have told you this so that my joy might be in you and your joy might be complete. This is my commandment: love one another as I love you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father. It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you. This I command you:  love one another.” Reflection It's not unusual for us to live in a world where we feel we have to perform for people in order to win their esteem or their respect, or even their love. And the same was true in the Old Testament, and the New Testament to the people were struggling to understand what is it that the message of Jesus is going to bring to us? Its promise to bring joy, happiness, fullness. And it's so interesting that it primarily works like this. If you allow God to love you as he longs to love you, you will be changed and you will be able to love those around you with a new energy and resonance. You have to be loved in order to love. And that's why Jesus is so insistent in helping people to realize that the God who created them is the God who loves them, no matter who they are. He is their God, their father, their friend, their lover. Closing Prayer All of us struggle with self esteem. And we live in a culture that tells us that we should be a certain thing, or have a certain thing, or look a certain way, and that's all normal. But what we see in Jesus is a message that he knows heals the hearts of so many people that are feeling empty or not enough. He loves us as we are, knowing that, really realizing that, believing that with our whole heart and soul is what grace intends to accomplish. And what is grace? Unmerited love. That's what we need to feel flowing from God, our father. We ask this in Jesus' name. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

LESSON 126All That I Give Is Given To Myself.Today's idea, completely alien to the ego and the thinking of the world, is crucial to the thought reversal that this course will bring about. If you believed this statement, there would be no problem in complete forgiveness, certainty of goal, and sure direction. You would understand the means by which salvation comes to you, and would not hesitate to use it now.Let us consider what you do believe, in place of this idea. It seems to you that other people are apart from you, and able to behave in ways which have no bearing on your thoughts, nor yours on theirs. Therefore, your attitudes have no effect on them, and their appeals for help are not in any way related to your own. You further think that they can sin without affecting your perception of yourself, while you can judge their sin, and yet remain apart from condemnation and at peace.When you “forgive” a sin, there is no gain to you directly. You give charity to one unworthy, merely to point out that you are better, on a higher plane than he whom you forgive. He has not earned your charitable tolerance, which you bestow on one unworthy of the gift, because his sins have lowered him beneath a true equality with you. He has no claim on your forgiveness. It holds out a gift to him, but hardly to yourself.Thus is forgiveness basically unsound; a charitable whim, benevolent yet undeserved, a gift bestowed at times, at other times withheld. Unmerited, withholding it is just, nor is it fair that you should suffer when it is withheld. The sin that you forgive is not your own. Someone apart from you committed it. And if you then are gracious unto him by giving him what he does not deserve, the gift is no more yours than was his sin.If this be true, forgiveness has no grounds on which to rest dependably and sure. It is an eccentricity, in which you sometimes choose to give indulgently an undeserved reprieve. Yet it remains your right to let the sinner not escape the justified repayment for his sin. Think you the Lord of Heaven would allow the world's salvation to depend on this? Would not His care for you be small indeed, if your salvation rested on a whim?You do not understand forgiveness. As you see it, it is but a check upon overt attack, without requiring correction in your mind. It cannot give you peace as you perceive it. It is not a means for your release from what you see in someone other than yourself. It has no power to restore your unity with him to your awareness. It is not what God intended it to be for you.Not having given Him the gift He asks of you, you cannot recognize His gifts, and think He has not given them to you. Yet would He ask you for a gift unless it was for you? Could He be satisfied with empty gestures, and evaluate such petty gifts as worthy of His Son? Salvation is a better gift than this. And true forgiveness, as the means by which it is attained, must heal the mind that gives, for giving is receiving. What remains as unreceived has not been given, but what has been given must have been received.Today we try to understand the truth that giver and receiver are the same. You will need help to make this meaningful, because it is so alien to the thoughts to which you are accustomed. But the Help you need is there. Give Him your faith today, and ask Him that He share your practicing in truth today. And if you only catch a tiny glimpse of the release that lies in the idea we practice for today, this is a day of glory for the world.Give fifteen minutes twice today to the attempt to understand today's idea. It is the thought by which forgiveness takes its proper place in your priorities. It is the thought that will release your mind from every bar to what forgiveness means, and let you realize its worth to you.In silence, close your eyes upon the world that does not understand forgiveness, and seek sanctuary in the quiet place where thoughts are changed and false beliefs laid by. Repeat today's idea, and ask for help in understanding what it really means. Be willing to be taught. Be glad to hear the Voice of truth and healing speak to you, and you will understand the words He speaks, and recognize He speaks your words to you.As often as you can, remind yourself you have a goal today; an aim which makes this day of special value to yourself and all your brothers. Do not let your mind forget this goal for long, but tell yourself:All that I give is given to myself.The Help I need to learn that this is true is with me now.And I will trust in Him.Then spend a quiet moment, opening your mind to His correction and His Love. And what you hear of Him you will believe, for what He gives will be received by you.- Jesus Christ in ACIM

Grace makes the difference. - its Unmerited - its God's mercy - its God's intervention. It is Gods love in action. God is the Glory and Lifter up of our heads (Psalm 3:3). God makes His face shine upon us to dispel and destroy shame.Bible says He lifts His countenance upon us, turning His face towards us in love, approval, and acceptance (Numbers 6:22-27). Child of God we are placed with God by His grace, giving us peace from all that once harassed us and made us feel embarrassed and ashamed.

Chris, a seasoned life coach with a master's in counseling psychology, shares her profound journey from addiction to freedom, offering a fresh perspective on perfectionistic tendencies and self-sabotage. Chris candidly reflects on her experiences with alcohol addiction, the misconceptions around sobriety, and the societal pressures that often accompany the decision to live alcohol-free.  Her book, "Grace Yourself," offers a beacon of hope for those navigating their own battles.Get the book:  Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want by Chris Janssen: https://amzn.to/4gJuvVq https://www.chrisjanssencoaching.com/Revitalize your faith and fitness with a morning routine that does not sacrifice your sleep and does start each day with God's Word and a workout. Join the community today at www.earlymorninghabit.com ☀️ Grab my FREE TRAINING on 3 Powerful Secrets to Rise Renewed Every Morning.☀️ Join the Early Morning Habit course and community today.➡️ Find Our Favorite Resources at the Early Morning Habit Amazon Shop =============================SUBSCRIBE & FOLLOW ============================= ➡️ YouTube➡️ InstagramWe value your feedback! Please share your thoughts on this show here. This episode is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links; we will receive a small commission if you buy something.

Scripture: Gen. 48 Speaker: Pastor Ben Miller Date: 12.29.2024

This series deals with the power of Jesus Christ to save the lost and teach the found. God has grace for all those who call on His name.

This series deals with the power of Jesus Christ to save the lost and teach the found. God has grace for all those who call on His name.

Homily of Fr. Michael P. O'Connor from Mass on October 21, 2024 at Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church in Bay St. Louis, MS. Referenced Readings: Eph 2:1-10 Lk 12:13-21 If you would like to donate to OLG and her livestream ministry, please go to https://olgchurch.net/give

Led by Apostle Sydney Quaye, Global Lead Pastor of Shekinah Avenue Church In this powerful Day 11 message of the 21 Days of Fasting and Prayer series, Apostle Sydney Quaye explores the theme of "Unmerited Promotions." Drawing from Psalm 75:6-7, he emphasizes that promotions do not come from earthly sources such as the East, West, or South, but from God, the ultimate Judge. Apostle Quaye encourages listeners to trust in God's divine judgment and promotion, reminding them that God is not only lifting them up but also positioning them for greater heights. He illustrates how God sponsors and lifts His people, positioning them in places of favour and success that they did not work for or earn. Whether through spiritual upliftment, professional success, or divine favour, God's promotion transcends human efforts. In this season of fasting and prayer, Apostle Quaye urges believers to engage with the spirit of remembrance, asking for divine intervention where they have sown seeds or laboured, so that promotion and breakthroughs may manifest in their lives. This message highlights the power of God's unmerited favour and the assurance that He promotes and elevates His people in His perfect timing. Listeners are encouraged to expect promotions in every aspect of life—whether in career, family, or personal endeavours—and to rely on God's unwavering faithfulness to fulfill His promises. Catch this uplifting message and embrace the assurance that God is the Judge, your promotion is certain, and your elevation is near.

Through Jesus we are blessed by grace. Unmerited favor from God. God is the only one that can provide grace. When we have that grace we can share it with others. Leading them to the same grace that saved us, so they can be saved too.

THE UNMERITED KINDNESS OF GOD, Marco Monroy by Community of Faith

Unmerited favor is God's gift to you—you are fully loved and accepted forever.

2 Samuel 14-20

LESSON 126All That I Give Is Given To Myself.oday's idea, completely alien to the ego and the thinking of the world, is crucial to the thought reversal that this course will bring about. If you believed this statement, there would be no problem in complete forgiveness, certainty of goal, and sure direction. You would understand the means by which salvation comes to you, and would not hesitate to use it now.Let us consider what you do believe, in place of this idea. It seems to you that other people are apart from you, and able to behave in ways which have no bearing on your thoughts, nor yours on theirs. Therefore, your attitudes have no effect on them, and their appeals for help are not in any way related to your own. You further think that they can sin without affecting your perception of yourself, while you can judge their sin, and yet remain apart from condemnation and at peace.When you “forgive” a sin, there is no gain to you directly. You give charity to one unworthy, merely to point out that you are better, on a higher plane than he whom you forgive. He has not earned your charitable tolerance, which you bestow on one unworthy of the gift, because his sins have lowered him beneath a true equality with you. He has no claim on your forgiveness. It holds out a gift to him, but hardly to yourself.Thus is forgiveness basically unsound; a charitable whim, benevolent yet undeserved, a gift bestowed at times, at other times withheld. Unmerited, withholding it is just, nor is it fair that you should suffer when it is withheld. The sin that you forgive is not your own. Someone apart from you committed it. And if you then are gracious unto him by giving him what he does not deserve, the gift is no more yours than was his sin.If this be true, forgiveness has no grounds on which to rest dependably and sure. It is an eccentricity, in which you sometimes choose to give indulgently an undeserved reprieve. Yet it remains your right to let the sinner not escape the justified repayment for his sin. Think you the Lord of Heaven would allow the world's salvation to depend on this? Would not His care for you be small indeed, if your salvation rested on a whim?You do not understand forgiveness. As you see it, it is but a check upon overt attack, without requiring correction in your mind. It cannot give you peace as you perceive it. It is not a means for your release from what you see in someone other than yourself. It has no power to restore your unity with him to your awareness. It is not what God intended it to be for you.Not having given Him the gift He asks of you, you cannot recognize His gifts, and think He has not given them to you. Yet would He ask you for a gift unless it was for you? Could He be satisfied with empty gestures, and evaluate such petty gifts as worthy of His Son? Salvation is a better gift than this. And true forgiveness, as the means by which it is attained, must heal the mind that gives, for giving is receiving. What remains as unreceived has not been given, but what has been given must have been received.Today we try to understand the truth that giver and receiver are the same. You will need help to make this meaningful, because it is so alien to the thoughts to which you are accustomed. But the Help you need is there. Give Him your faith today, and ask Him that He share your practicing in truth today. And if you only catch a tiny glimpse of the release that lies in the idea we practice for today, this is a day of glory for the world.Give fifteen minutes twice today to the attempt to understand today's idea. It is the thought by which forgiveness takes its proper place in your priorities. It is the thought that will release your mind from every bar to what forgiveness means, and let you realize its worth to you.In silence, close your eyes upon the world that does not understand forgiveness, and seek sanctuary in the quiet place where thoughts are changed and false beliefs laid by. Repeat today's idea, and ask for help in understanding what it really means. Be willing to be taught. Be glad to hear the Voice of truth and healing speak to you, and you will understand the words He speaks, and recognize He speaks your words to you.As often as you can, remind yourself you have a goal today; an aim which makes this day of special value to yourself and all your brothers. Do not let your mind forget this goal for long, but tell yourself:All that I give is given to myself.The Help I need to learn that this is true is with me now.And I will trust in Him.Then spend a quiet moment, opening your mind to His correction and His Love. And what you hear of Him you will believe, for what He gives will be received by you.- Jesus Christ in ACIM

Unmerited blesding

It's usually said with a cynical smile and an eye roll: “My good deed did not go unpunished.” And it nicely sums up the exasperation we feel when life doesn't seem fair, when hard work isn't rewarded, when doing the right thing brings only more trouble and heartache. But what if the more accurate summary of our lives was actually the inverse: “My bad deeds did not get punished.” According to the Bible, our faith in Jesus means that we'll never get what we deserve—and we will be deliriously happy with that outcome! “But as people sinned more and more, God's wonderful grace became more abundant. So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God's wonderful grace rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom 5:20-21). Grace offers us believably good news: “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:5-6). Let cynics retire. Let the saved rejoice. And stay in grace. -Bill Knott

It's usually said with a cynical smile and an eye roll: “My good deed did not go unpunished.” And it nicely sums up the exasperation we feel when life doesn't seem fair, when hard work isn't rewarded, when doing the right thing brings only more trouble and heartache. But what if the more accurate summary of our lives was actually the inverse: “My bad deeds did not get punished.” According to the Bible, our faith in Jesus means that we'll never get what we deserve—and we will be deliriously happy with that outcome! “But as people sinned more and more, God's wonderful grace became more abundant. So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God's wonderful grace rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom 5:20-21). Grace offers us believably good news: “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:5-6). Let cynics retire. Let the saved rejoice. And stay in grace. -Bill Knott

It's usually said with a cynical smile and an eye roll: “My good deed did not go unpunished.” And it nicely sums up the exasperation we feel when life doesn't seem fair, when hard work isn't rewarded, when doing the right thing brings only more trouble and heartache. But what if the more accurate summary of our lives was actually the inverse: “My bad deeds did not get punished.” According to the Bible, our faith in Jesus means that we'll never get what we deserve—and we will be deliriously happy with that outcome! “But as people sinned more and more, God's wonderful grace became more abundant. So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God's wonderful grace rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom 5:20-21). Grace offers us believably good news: “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:5-6). Let cynics retire. Let the saved rejoice. And stay in grace. -Bill Knott

21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.2 Corinthians 5:21✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞18 And they all cried out at once, saying, “Away with this Man, and release to us Barabbas”— 19 who had been thrown into prison for a certain rebellion made in the city, and for murder.Luke 23:18-19✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞20 But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitudes that they should ask for Barabbas and destroy Jesus. 21 The governor answered and said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release to you?”They said, “Barabbas!”22 Pilate said to them, “What then shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?”They all said to him, “Let Him be crucified!”23 Then the governor said, “Why, what evil has He done?”But they cried out all the more, saying, “Let Him be crucified!”Matthew 27:20-23✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞23 For the wages of sin is death, but the [a]gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.Romans 6:23✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.Romans 5:8✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞25 Therefore He is also able to save [a]to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.Hebrews 7:25✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.John 14:6✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞33 Now when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour.Mark 15:33✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”Matthew 27:46✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞50 And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit.Matthew 27:50✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞50 And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit.51 Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split,Matthew 27:50-51✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞ ✞40 But He answered and said to them, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.”Luke 19:40

There will be times when we do not have to work for that blessing to show up, due to GOD working out the details.

A different take on the little drummer boy. Thank you for listening to Encourage-Mint. If you've been refreshed, don't forget to subscribe, Leave a review on iTunes, and share a little Encourage-Mint with someone you love. Encourage-Mint is a podcast from Family Radio. These moments are just a taste of what you can hear every day. Listen at FamilyRadio.org or find more encouragement on the Family Radio app.  Get daily Scripture and encouragement by following Family Radio on your favorite social media platforms:FacebookInstagram Twitter

Sunday sermon from 11/25/23. Pastor Schooler explores the unmerited grace of God in Acts 16:11-40.

Noah and Pastor Juanita Rasmus have a conversation around how to live in the unmerited love of God when everything inside of us says we need to perform in order to be accepted. Juanita is the author of Learning to Be: Finding Your Center After the Bottom Falls Out and is a pastor who endured a 9-month crash following ministry burnout. Listen in to discover the freeing truths of Jesus' love that she found at the bottom of the pit and learn the tools and rhythms you need to start experiencing this freedom here and now. Juanita Campbell Rasmus is a speaker, writer, spiritual director, and contemplative. She previously was copastor of the St. John's United Methodist Church for thirty-one years in downtown Houston with her husband, Rudy. Started with nine members in 1992, thousands have joined the St. John's family, making it one of the most culturally diverse congregations in the country. Pastor Juanita has served as a member of the board of directors of Renovaré and its ministry team founded by Richard Foster. Additionally, Juanita serves on the board of her alma mater, Houston Graduate School of Theology, and on advisory boards for Rice University's Religion and Public Life Program and re:MIND Houston.   Juanita cofounded Bread of Life, Inc., a nonprofit corporation, with Rudy in 1992 and began serving meals to the homeless in the sanctuary at St. John's. Juanita most recently teamed up with Tina Knowles Lawson and Beyoncé to help forty thousand flood victims recover in the wake of Hurricane Harvey in Houston. In addition to addressing issues of health and disaster relief, Juanita launched the Temenos Community Development Corporation in 2006, which recently completed over thirty million dollars in housing development projects for the previously homeless in downtown Houston. She also founded The Art Project-Houston to empower the city's homeless to become hope-filled painters and artisans who craft their own livelihood and create lives filled with new possibilities.   You can also watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8FgBn8xbDLw   Flip Side Notes: Join an upcoming Beyond the Battle online group at www.beyondthebattle.net Support Flip Side sponsor Angry Brew by using promo code FLIP at angrybrew.com or fivelakes.com to pick up some Angry Brew or Chris' Blend coffee at 10% off. Get a free month of Covenant Eyes at www.covenanteyes.com using promo code BEYOND Get a free month of Accountable2You keyword accountability: a2u.app/beyond (do not use “www”) Support the show and get some sweet swag by becoming a patron at www.patreon.com/noahfilipiak - includes exclusive access to email the show and request topics.

There is nothing lacking when it comes to God or what He can do for us. He gives more than enough, surpassing what we could ever imagine. When God acts, He does immeasurably more than we could ever think. Join Pastor Mark Williams for the next message in the series "Living Life to the Praise of His Glory" titled "Immeasurably More".   Show Notes The world has been changed by letters written from prison. From Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Letters From a Birmingham Jail to Nelson Mandela's letters from Robben Island Prison to family and government officials demanding an end to apartheid in South Africa; from Corey ten Boom's letters written from Ravensbrück concentration camp in Germany to Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Letters and Papers from Prison written from Tegel Prison in North Berlin; from William Tyndale's letters while imprisoned in a castle near Brussels to Pilgrim's Progress written during John Bunyan's imprisonment in a Bedford jail in England –  God has used places of isolation, incarceration, and unjust captivity to speak fresh inspiration to weary and worn followers, and through them the gospel has been advanced, and the world has been changed.   While in custody under house arrest, chained 24 hours of every day to a rotation of Praetorian Guards under Nero's command, the Apostle Paul wrote letters, letters from a Roman jail.  One of those letters was addressed to Christians, “God's holy people,” living in Ephesus.       Focus: Ephesians 3:1-21     I.                    Unplanned Detours, Unexpected Crisis, and Unjust Captivity Can Lead to Places of Fresh Inspiration, Fervent Intercession, and Penetrating Proclamation (3:13).   A.    Paul's Aspiration Was to Take the Gospel to Spain. B.     Paul's Dislocation Was Occasioned by an Arrest in Jerusalem. C.     Paul's Incarceration in Rome Led to Intercession and Proclamation of the Gospel. II.                 God's Grace Is Unsearchable (3:7-8). A.  Grace is Unlimited, Unmerited, Undeserved Favor.   1.      The source of grace is God. 2.      The scope of grace is the world. 3.      The sufficiency of grace includes every human need.   B.  Grace Defined the Ministry Entrusted to Paul (3:7). C.  Grace Was the Mystery Revealed to Paul (3:6, 8-9). III.              God's Love Is Immeasurable (3:17-19). A.  The Broadness of His Love Encompasses All Humankind. B.  The Length of His Love Lasts for All Eternity. C.  The Height of His Love Reaches to Heaven. D.  The Depth of His Love Extends to the Lowest Depths of Depravity. IV.              God's Power Is Unlimited (3:20-21). A.  God Is Able. B.  God Is Able “To Do.” C.  God Is Able “To Do What We Ask.” D.  God Is Able “To Do More Than We Ask.” E.   God Is Able “To Do Immeasurably More Than All We Ask or Imagine.” F.   God's Ability “To Do for Us Is According to the Power at Work Within Us.”  

All that I give is given to myself. Today's idea, completely alien to the ego and the thinking of the world, is crucial to the thought reversal that this course will bring about. If you believed this statement, there would be no problem in complete forgiveness, certainty of goal, and sure direction. You would understand the means by which salvation comes to you, and would not hesitate to use it now. Let us consider what you do believe, in place of this idea. It seems to you that other people are apart from you, and able to behave in ways which have no bearing on your thoughts, nor yours on theirs. Therefore, your attitudes have no effect on them, and their appeals for help are not in any way related to your own. You further think that they can sin without affecting your perception of yourself, while you can judge their sin, and yet remain apart from condemnation and at peace. When you "forgive" a sin, there is no gain to you directly. You give charity to one unworthy, merely to point out that you are better, on a higher plane than he whom you forgive. He has not earned your charitable tolerance, which you bestow on one unworthy of the gift, because his sins have lowered him beneath a true equality with you. He has no claim on your forgiveness. It holds out a gift to him, but hardly to yourself. Thus is forgiveness basically unsound; a charitable whim, benevolent yet undeserved, a gift bestowed at times, at other times withheld. Unmerited, withholding it is just, nor is it fair that you should suffer when it is withheld. The sin that you forgive is not your own. Someone apart from you committed it. And if you then are gracious unto him by giving him what he does not deserve, the gift is no more yours than was his sin. If this be true, forgiveness has no grounds on which to rest dependably and sure. It is an eccentricity, in which you sometimes choose to give indulgently an undeserved reprieve. Yet it remains your right to let the sinner not escape the justified repayment for his sin. Think you the Lord of Heaven would allow the world's salvation to depend on this? Would not His care for you be small indeed, if your salvation rested on a whim? You do not understand forgiveness. As you see it, it is but a check upon overt attack, without requiring correction in your mind. It cannot give you peace as you perceive it. It is not a means for your release from what you see in someone other than yourself. It has no power to restore your unity with him to your awareness. It is not what God intended it to be for you. Not having given Him the gift He asks of you, you cannot recognize His gifts, and think He has not given them to you. Yet would He ask you for a gift unless it was for you? Could He be satisfied with empty gestures, and evaluate such petty gifts as worthy of His Son? Salvation is a better gift than this. And true forgiveness, as the means by which it is attained, must heal the mind that gives, for giving is receiving. What remains as unreceived has not been given, but what has been given must have been received. Today we try to understand the truth that giver and receiver are the same. You will need help to make this meaningful, because it is so alien to the thoughts to which you are accustomed. But the Help you need is there. Give Him your faith today, and ask Him that He share your practicing in truth today. And if you only catch a tiny glimpse of the release that lies in the idea we practice for today, this is a day of glory for the world. Give fifteen minutes twice today to the attempt to understand today's idea. It is the thought by which forgiveness takes its proper place in your priorities. It is the thought that will release your mind from every bar to what forgiveness means, and let you realize its worth to you. In silence, close your eyes upon the world that does not understand forgiveness, and seek sanctuary in the quiet place where thoughts are changed and false beliefs laid by. Repeat today's idea, and ask for help in understanding what it really means. Be willing to be taught. Be glad to hear the Voice of truth and healing speak to you, and you will understand the words He speaks, and recognize He speaks your words to you. As often as you can, remind yourself you have a goal today; an aim which makes this day of special value to yourself and all your brothers. Do not let your mind forget this goal for long, but tell yourself: All that I give is given to myself. The Help I need to learn that this is true is with me now. And I will trust in Him. Then spend a quiet moment, opening your mind to His correction and His Love. And what you hear of Him you will believe, for what He gives will be received by you.- Jesus Christ in A Course in Miracles, Lesson 126

Kyle, Wayne, and Sara continue their conversation about their last year and the doors God continues to open into a... The post Redeeming Love: Unmerited Rejection (#889) first appeared on The God Journey.

Daily Dose: Bonus Monday! Happy New Year, Dosers! How can we transform our mind to get away from stinking thinking?Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/pren1x29Mmg Message by Trent Jenkins.

Message from Trent Jenkins on December 31, 2022. Where do I fit into what God has planned and how do I overcome the obstacles preventing me from getting there? In the pursuit of trying to fulfill our purpose we can often get distracted and run into obstacles that seem overwhelming. Find out how to pursue God's plan with clarity this weekend. Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/dRqCVOJPfp8 - Live Notes available at https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/38370/note-170888.html

The topic of God's Grace is beautifully complicated. It is simply too great to fully understand while we live here in the limitations of the flesh. But giving up on understanding grace can lead to big mistakes. Maybe we believe God covers everything not matter how we live. That's not right. But neither is the other side of the spectrum, where we look at our lives as a series of works we must accomplish to eventually get the grace. This is equally as foolish. David Osteen and I take different angles on the topic of grace, but we are in ultimate agreement in how it motivates us to live great and faithful lives. In this interview, you get to hear our independent answers to some straight forward questions about God's grace. Kenny Embry hosts the Balancing the Christian Life podcast. If you enjoy this interview style, go check out his podcast. He has conducted some truly incredible interviews on needful topics. - How would you explain grace without using "unmerited favor"?- Why is grace such a controversial topic?- How would you explain grace to your 12 year old kids?- Why is a lack of grace just as dangerous as focusing on it too much?- How is it liberating to know you are saved by God and His grace?

Daily Dose: Bonus Monday! What three things should we do after Christmas? Message by Chris Brown. Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/eAb9SSbij4Q

Message from Chris Brown on December 24, 2022. This is a shorter family friendly Christmas message that the whole family can gather around and enjoy.  So, get someone or something to snuggle up with and get ready to once and for all capture the true Joy and Peace that Christmas brings. Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/_hvLguTOX6E - Live Notes available at https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/38370/note-170667.html

Daily Dose: Bonus Monday! When it comes to sharing your heart with the Lord, have you taken hold of the privilege of coming to Him as Abba Father? Message by Larry Osborne. Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/sX8WeJYRSsk

Message from Larry Osborne on December 14, 2022. Family members have always had some special rights, privileges, and responsibilities that come with the relationship. It's the same for those of us who are Jesus followers and have been adopted into God's family as full-on sons and daughters. Today we'll discover one of the most amazing rights and privileges we've been granted – and the responsibilities that come with it. Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/UJAfNt_kbns - Live Notes available at https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/38370/note-170259.html

Daily Dose: Bonus Monday! What's our job as part of the family? Message by Chris Brown.Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/ld3sxhMwbVs

Once we have truly encountered the love and purpose that God has for us, we all love being called Children of God. However, the inheritance that comes with that title is not only an eternal Kingdom, but the rest of His family as well. Today we jump into the reality that it is not always easy to love others in the family, but we will find the motivation and heart that we need to do it anyway. Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Eb8R8ajDsRw - Live Notes available at https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/38370/note-169791.html

Daily Dose: Bonus Monday! There are two truths about you. You get to walk in one of them today - choose wisely. Message by Chris Brown.Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/fgMAYMLD79w

Message from Chris Brown on December 3, 2022. There is a phrase in the Bible that seems to be incredibly easy for us to understand, and yet at the same time incredibly difficult for us to live out. The application of this single phrase is what made all the difference in the world to me between understanding Christianity and actually experiencing it. Today we define, but more importantly, learn how to apply, the unmerited title: Child of God. Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/p2WhmAtw-Ps - Live Notes available at https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/38370/note-169387.html

Message from TJ McDaniel on November 26, 2022. There is a great irony among Christians. The most important phrase that could ever be said, “God loves you,” can feel unremarkable and dull. This weekend we examine God's Word to reconsider how truly monumental His unmerited love for us is. Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/slPsIkKGm2g - Live Notes available at https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/38370/note-168964.html