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Come Holy Spirit MESSAGE SUMMARY: Special Introduction – The Spiritual Discipline of Giving: We are challenged by God to bring our whole tithe into the storehouse (church) because God tells us that we cannot out give Him. After all, everything we have is from God. Our gifts to God should be from our first fruits and not our last fruits. Developing the discipline of returning our first fruits to God breaks the hold of materialism on our lives. Today's Message – Come Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is God Himself. The Holy Spirit is a presence of God in the Trinity of one God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit indwells us, as our counselor, always pointing to Jesus in truth. People are not convicted and converted in their hearts and minds to become followers of Jesus without the Holy Spirit. Without the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in our churches, not much will be accomplished. It is impossible to be a Christian and to live the Christian life without the Holy Spirit. The character of Jesus' followers is manifested through their lives bringing forth the fruits of the Holy Spirit, as presented in Galatians 5:22-23: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control . . .”. Otherwise, our lives will only reflect the fruit of the flesh as presented in Galatians 5:19-21: “Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these . . .". The Holy Spirit seeks to work through us in a way that those around us see the fruit of the Spirit and not the fruit of the flesh. What do people see when they look at Your life? As followers of Jesus, we need to live through God's gift to us of the power inherent in the Holy Spirit.     TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Malachi 3:8-12; Proverbs 23:5; Genesis 1:2; Psalms 1:39; Acts 1:4-5; 1 Corinthians 2:10; Hebrews 9:14; Luke 1:35; Matthew 28:19-20; 2 Corinthians 3:17; John 14:16; Acts 2:42; John 14:26; John 15:26; John 16:6-7; John 3:4-8; John 14:16; John 16:7; Acts 1:8; Ephesians 5:18. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Jesus Followers Should Fear, Respect, and Praise God's Power, Sovereignty, and Holiness; but in Life's Trials They Should “fear not for I {Jesus} am with you always””: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Come Holy Spirit MESSAGE SUMMARY: Special Introduction – The Spiritual Discipline of Giving: We are challenged by God to bring our whole tithe into the storehouse (church) because God tells us that we cannot out give Him. After all, everything we have is from God. Our gifts to God should be from our first fruits and not our last fruits. Developing the discipline of returning our first fruits to God breaks the hold of materialism on our lives. Today's Message – Come Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is God Himself. The Holy Spirit is a presence of God in the Trinity of one God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit indwells us, as our counselor, always pointing to Jesus in truth. People are not convicted and converted in their hearts and minds to become followers of Jesus without the Holy Spirit. Without the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in our churches, not much will be accomplished. It is impossible to be a Christian and to live the Christian life without the Holy Spirit. The character of Jesus' followers is manifested through their lives bringing forth the fruits of the Holy Spirit, as presented in Galatians 5:22-23: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control . . .”. Otherwise, our lives will only reflect the fruit of the flesh as presented in Galatians 5:19-21: “Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these . . .". The Holy Spirit seeks to work through us in a way that those around us see the fruit of the Spirit and not the fruit of the flesh. What do people see when they look at Your life? As followers of Jesus, we need to live through God's gift to us of the power inherent in the Holy Spirit.     TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Malachi 3:8-12; Proverbs 23:5; Genesis 1:2; Psalms 1:39; Acts 1:4-5; 1 Corinthians 2:10; Hebrews 9:14; Luke 1:35; Matthew 28:19-20; 2 Corinthians 3:17; John 14:16; Acts 2:42; John 14:26; John 15:26; John 16:6-7; John 3:4-8; John 14:16; John 16:7; Acts 1:8; Ephesians 5:18. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Jesus Followers Should Fear, Respect, and Praise God's Power, Sovereignty, and Holiness; but in Life's Trials They Should “fear not for I {Jesus} am with you always””: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Being in Christ, Part 4 MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful message, we explore the profound concept of 'dying in Christ' through the lens of Philippians 3. We're reminded that for believers, death is not an end, but a gateway to eternal life. The key spiritual lesson here is that our citizenship is in heaven, and our earthly bodies will be transformed to be like Christ's glorious body. This teaching challenges us to shift our perspective on death, viewing it not with fear, but with hope and anticipation. The message draws an interesting parallel with the story of Chip, a visually impaired friend who, upon passing, likely received perfect sight in his heavenly body. This narrative encourages us to trust in God's promises, even in the face of physical limitations or suffering. As we navigate life's challenges, we're called to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, allowing His presence to diminish our earthly concerns. This message is deeply relevant to our faith journey, reminding us that our identity in Christ transcends our earthly existence and offers us eternal hope..   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Luke 11:13 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 11:25-26 (paraphrased); Philippians 3:17-21; Matthew 7:24-27; Matthew 6:6; John 14:13-14. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “At Jesus' Crucifixion and Death, the “Temple Veil” Was Torn; After Jesus Easter Resurrection, You Now Pray Directly with God”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Being in Christ, Part 4 MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful message, we explore the profound concept of 'dying in Christ' through the lens of Philippians 3. We're reminded that for believers, death is not an end, but a gateway to eternal life. The key spiritual lesson here is that our citizenship is in heaven, and our earthly bodies will be transformed to be like Christ's glorious body. This teaching challenges us to shift our perspective on death, viewing it not with fear, but with hope and anticipation. The message draws an interesting parallel with the story of Chip, a visually impaired friend who, upon passing, likely received perfect sight in his heavenly body. This narrative encourages us to trust in God's promises, even in the face of physical limitations or suffering. As we navigate life's challenges, we're called to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, allowing His presence to diminish our earthly concerns. This message is deeply relevant to our faith journey, reminding us that our identity in Christ transcends our earthly existence and offers us eternal hope..   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Luke 11:13 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 11:25-26 (paraphrased); Philippians 3:17-21; Matthew 7:24-27; Matthew 6:6; John 14:13-14. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “At Jesus' Crucifixion and Death, the “Temple Veil” Was Torn; After Jesus Easter Resurrection, You Now Pray Directly with God”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Being in Christ, Part 3  MESSAGE SUMMARY: In today's message, we delve into what it truly means to 'die in Christ.' Drawing from Philippians 3, we explore the transformative power of faith that turns our fear of death into anticipation of eternal life. The key lesson here is that for those in Christ, death is not an end, but a transition - a gateway to our true home. The apostle Paul's words in Philippians 3 challenge us to shift our perspective, viewing our earthly lives through the lens of our heavenly citizenship. This perspective challenges us to live with purpose, pressing on towards the goal of our heavenly calling. Also, this teaching encourages us to live with purpose and confidence, knowing that our ultimate destination is secure in Christ. We're reminded that our citizenship is in heaven, and that this earthly life is just a prelude to the glory that awaits us. As we contemplate this truth, we're invited to release our fears about death and instead focus on living fully for Christ in the present. The message beautifully illustrates how our faith can transform our approach to both life and death, offering comfort and hope in the face of life's greatest mystery. How might our lives change if we truly embraced this eternal perspective? It's an invitation to live boldly for Christ, knowing that our ultimate destiny is secure in Him.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Philippians 2:19-22 (Timothy's example); Philippians 2:25-30 (Epaphroditus' example): Matthew 20:28 ("For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve..."); Matthew 25:34-40 (Parable of the sheep and goats); Philippians 2:3-4 ("Do nothing out of selfish ambition..."). A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “At Jesus' Crucifixion and Death, the “Temple Veil” Was Torn; After Jesus Easter Resurrection, You Now Pray Directly with God”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Being in Christ, Part 3  MESSAGE SUMMARY: In today's message, we delve into what it truly means to 'die in Christ.' Drawing from Philippians 3, we explore the transformative power of faith that turns our fear of death into anticipation of eternal life. The key lesson here is that for those in Christ, death is not an end, but a transition - a gateway to our true home. The apostle Paul's words in Philippians 3 challenge us to shift our perspective, viewing our earthly lives through the lens of our heavenly citizenship. This perspective challenges us to live with purpose, pressing on towards the goal of our heavenly calling. Also, this teaching encourages us to live with purpose and confidence, knowing that our ultimate destination is secure in Christ. We're reminded that our citizenship is in heaven, and that this earthly life is just a prelude to the glory that awaits us. As we contemplate this truth, we're invited to release our fears about death and instead focus on living fully for Christ in the present. The message beautifully illustrates how our faith can transform our approach to both life and death, offering comfort and hope in the face of life's greatest mystery. How might our lives change if we truly embraced this eternal perspective? It's an invitation to live boldly for Christ, knowing that our ultimate destiny is secure in Him.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Philippians 2:19-22 (Timothy's example); Philippians 2:25-30 (Epaphroditus' example): Matthew 20:28 ("For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve..."); Matthew 25:34-40 (Parable of the sheep and goats); Philippians 2:3-4 ("Do nothing out of selfish ambition...").   A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “At Jesus' Crucifixion and Death, the “Temple Veil” Was Torn; After Jesus Easter Resurrection, You Now Pray Directly with God”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Being in Christ, Part 2 MESSAGE SUMMARY: In Dr. Beach's message today regarding “Being in Christ”, we continue to explore what it truly means to be 'in Christ' and how this transformative reality should shape our lives. The central theme revolves around the profound idea that 'to live is Christ,' as expressed by the Apostle Paul in Philippians. This isn't just a lofty concept, but a practical approach to every aspect of our lives. We're challenged to view our circumstances, relationships, and even difficulties through spiritual eyes, recognizing that being in Christ gives us a new perspective. The message emphasizes two key outcomes of living in Christ: fruitful labor and godly conduct. As believers, we're called to not just believe, but to live out our faith in tangible ways that reflect Christ's character. This teaching invites us to adopt a new motto - 'For me, to live is Christ' - and to apply it in every situation we face. It's a call to transformation, urging us to align our thoughts, actions, and attitudes with the reality of being in Christ.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. John 1:12f SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Philippians 1:22; Philippians 1:27; Matthew 20:1-16 (The parable of the workers in the vineyard); Philippians 2:1-4; Philippians 2:5-8; Mark 10:45 A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “When Jesus Asked You: “Whom do you say that I am?”, Did You Answer Jesus: “You are my God and the Lord of my Life!”?”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Being in Christ, Part 2 MESSAGE SUMMARY: In Dr. Beach's message today regarding “Being in Christ”, we continue to explore what it truly means to be 'in Christ' and how this transformative reality should shape our lives. The central theme revolves around the profound idea that 'to live is Christ,' as expressed by the Apostle Paul in Philippians. This isn't just a lofty concept, but a practical approach to every aspect of our lives. We're challenged to view our circumstances, relationships, and even difficulties through spiritual eyes, recognizing that being in Christ gives us a new perspective. The message emphasizes two key outcomes of living in Christ: fruitful labor and godly conduct. As believers, we're called to not just believe, but to live out our faith in tangible ways that reflect Christ's character. This teaching invites us to adopt a new motto - 'For me, to live is Christ' - and to apply it in every situation we face. It's a call to transformation, urging us to align our thoughts, actions, and attitudes with the reality of being in Christ.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. John 1:12f SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Philippians 1:22; Philippians 1:27; Matthew 20:1-16 (The parable of the workers in the vineyard); Philippians 2:1-4; Philippians 2:5-8; Mark 10:45 A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “When Jesus Asked You: “Whom do you say that I am?”, Did You Answer Jesus: “You are my God and the Lord of my Life!”?”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Being in Christ, Part 1 MESSAGE SUMMARY: Overview of Prior Series:  Turkeys and Eagles: This Series has been looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians to point out “Turkeyisms” – things by which have duped us into believing or behaving in ways which aren't what Christianity is all about. This Series has pointed out some changes in our thinking needed so that we can be like “Eagles” -- to be the people that God wants and intended for us to be. Ephesians 6 mentions “praying in the Spirit” – praying with a focus on the Lord. Prayer is the most powerful weapon we have, but we fail to use it. Prayer is the privilege we are given to enter into the holiness of the Universe's Creator. When we bring our situations to God, His presence invades those situations. Sermon: To Live Is Christ: We have too many in the Christian Church that do not know who they are in Jesus. Therefore, too many Christians live their lives with no purpose or vision; and due to this ignorance, they often live in fear and disillusionment about their spiritual life. “Being in Christ”: When we first came to faith in Jesus, something miraculous happened – we were transferred from the “kingdom of darkness” to the “kingdom of light” – we went from not being in Jesus to being in Jesus. However, most of us don't live like we are in Jesus. Being in Jesus is like being in the water scuba diving – being in Jesus effects everything (e.g., thoughts, actions, movements, feelings – even those things needed to stay alive). We need to become aware of who we are in Jesus. Once we are in Jesus, we have a struggle with our very being. Paul tells us, in 1 Thessalonians 5:23, that we are body, soul, and spirit – our spirit is where God indwells us when we are in Christ. To live in Christ, we must yield our body and soul to the spirit. In Philippians 1:21, Paul tells us that “for me to live is Christ” – Christ is what life is all about. Remembering “to live is Christ” reminds us that we live in the Kingdom of God, and God is in charge. In whatever circumstance we are facing in our lives, “to Live is Christ”. Also, Paul, in Philippians 1, describes how we have a work in Christ which includes being a witness for Christ. We are either “in Christ” or “not in Christ” -- “to Live is Christ”.     TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Ephesians 6:10-20; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Philippians 1:21-30; Ephesians 1:3-4; Colossians 1:1-2. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Jesus Followers Are the Enemy's {devil's} Target to Mess You Up and To Destroy Your Relationship with God”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Being in Christ, Part 1 MESSAGE SUMMARY: Overview of Prior Series:  Turkeys and Eagles: This Series has been looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians to point out “Turkeyisms” – things by which have duped us into believing or behaving in ways which aren't what Christianity is all about. This Series has pointed out some changes in our thinking needed so that we can be like “Eagles” -- to be the people that God wants and intended for us to be. Ephesians 6 mentions “praying in the Spirit” – praying with a focus on the Lord. Prayer is the most powerful weapon we have, but we fail to use it. Prayer is the privilege we are given to enter into the holiness of the Universe's Creator. When we bring our situations to God, His presence invades those situations. Sermon: To Live Is Christ: We have too many in the Christian Church that do not know who they are in Jesus. Therefore, too many Christians live their lives with no purpose or vision; and due to this ignorance, they often live in fear and disillusionment about their spiritual life. “Being in Christ”: When we first came to faith in Jesus, something miraculous happened – we were transferred from the “kingdom of darkness” to the “kingdom of light” – we went from not being in Jesus to being in Jesus. However, most of us don't live like we are in Jesus. Being in Jesus is like being in the water scuba diving – being in Jesus effects everything (e.g., thoughts, actions, movements, feelings – even those things needed to stay alive). We need to become aware of who we are in Jesus. Once we are in Jesus, we have a struggle with our very being. Paul tells us, in 1 Thessalonians 5:23, that we are body, soul, and spirit – our spirit is where God indwells us when we are in Christ. To live in Christ, we must yield our body and soul to the spirit. In Philippians 1:21, Paul tells us that “for me to live is Christ” – Christ is what life is all about. Remembering “to live is Christ” reminds us that we live in the Kingdom of God, and God is in charge. In whatever circumstance we are facing in our lives, “to Live is Christ”. Also, Paul, in Philippians 1, describes how we have a work in Christ which includes being a witness for Christ. We are either “in Christ” or “not in Christ” -- “to Live is Christ”.     TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Ephesians 6:10-20; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Philippians 1:21-30; Ephesians 1:3-4; Colossians 1:1-2. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Jesus Followers Are the Enemy's {devil's} Target to Mess You Up and To Destroy Your Relationship with God”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

He Is Risen: From Good Friday To Easter MESSAGE SUMMARY: This Easter message invites us to explore the profound truth that Jesus is not just a historical figure, but a living Lord. We're reminded of the events of Holy Week, culminating in Christ's resurrection - a pivotal moment that changed everything. The empty tomb isn't just a story; it's a reality that continues to transform lives today. We're challenged to move beyond mere belief to a dynamic, personal relationship with the risen Christ. This message encourages us to experience the peace, forgiveness, and inner transformation that comes from knowing Jesus intimately. As we reflect on the resurrection, we're called to allow its power to permeate our daily lives, bringing hope and renewal to every aspect of our existence.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Luke 11:13 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 16:24-25; mark 8:34; Galatians 2:20; 1 Peter 4:1-3. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Letting God Be Lord Over Your Finances, which Are His but He Entrusted to You, Will Liberate Your Life!”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

He Is Risen: From Good Friday To Easter MESSAGE SUMMARY: This Easter message invites us to explore the profound truth that Jesus is not just a historical figure, but a living Lord. We're reminded of the events of Holy Week, culminating in Christ's resurrection - a pivotal moment that changed everything. The empty tomb isn't just a story; it's a reality that continues to transform lives today. We're challenged to move beyond mere belief to a dynamic, personal relationship with the risen Christ. This message encourages us to experience the peace, forgiveness, and inner transformation that comes from knowing Jesus intimately. As we reflect on the resurrection, we're called to allow its power to permeate our daily lives, bringing hope and renewal to every aspect of our existence.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Luke 11:13 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 16:24-25; mark 8:34; Galatians 2:20; 1 Peter 4:1-3. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Letting God Be Lord Over Your Finances, which Are His but He Entrusted to You, Will Liberate Your Life!”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Essentials Part 5 – The Holy Spirit MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful message, we're reminded of the essential role of the Holy Spirit in our Christian faith. The Holy Spirit isn't just a concept, but a divine person - equal with God the Father and Jesus Christ. We learn that the Spirit was active in Jesus' life, from His conception to His resurrection, and continues to work in believers today. The message challenges us to consider: does the Holy Spirit have us? Are we allowing Him to lead our lives? By understanding the Spirit's work in convicting us of sin, regenerating our hearts, and producing spiritual fruit, we're encouraged to yield ourselves more fully to His guidance. This teaching invites us to reflect on how we might be grieving or quenching the Spirit in our lives, urging us to confess our sins and live in alignment with God's will. As we contemplate these truths, we're called to a deeper, more Spirit-filled walk with God.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Genesis 1:2 (alluded to); Psalm 139:7-10; Luke 1:35; 1 Corinthians 2:10-11; Hebrews 9:14 (mentioned but not quoted); John 4:24 A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “To Be a Jesus Follower, You Must First Enter the Only Door to God's Kingdom and that Door is Jesus – the Door to Eternal Life ”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Essentials Part 5 – The Holy Spirit MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful message, we're reminded of the essential role of the Holy Spirit in our Christian faith. The Holy Spirit isn't just a concept, but a divine person - equal with God the Father and Jesus Christ. We learn that the Spirit was active in Jesus' life, from His conception to His resurrection, and continues to work in believers today. The message challenges us to consider: does the Holy Spirit have us? Are we allowing Him to lead our lives? By understanding the Spirit's work in convicting us of sin, regenerating our hearts, and producing spiritual fruit, we're encouraged to yield ourselves more fully to His guidance. This teaching invites us to reflect on how we might be grieving or quenching the Spirit in our lives, urging us to confess our sins and live in alignment with God's will. As we contemplate these truths, we're called to a deeper, more Spirit-filled walk with God.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Genesis 1:2 (alluded to); Psalm 139:7-10; Luke 1:35; 1 Corinthians 2:10-11; Hebrews 9:14 (mentioned but not quoted); John 4:24 A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “To Be a Jesus Follower, You Must First Enter the Only Door to God's Kingdom and that Door is Jesus – the Door to Eternal Life ”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Essentials Part 4 – One God, Not Three MESSAGE SUMMARY: In our exploration of the Trinity, we delve into one of Christianity's most profound mysteries. While the word 'Trinity' doesn't appear in the Bible, it's a concept deeply rooted in Scripture. We learn that God is one in unity, not plurality, yet reveals Himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This understanding challenges us to embrace the complexity of God's nature. The Old Testament gives us glimpses of this triune nature, even as it emphasizes monotheism. In the New Testament, we see Jesus baptizing in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, solidifying this trinitarian view. As we contemplate this, we're invited to marvel at God's vastness and intimacy simultaneously. How might this understanding of God as three-in-one impact our daily walk of faith and our approach to worship?   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Luke 11:13 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Ephesians 1:13; 2 Corinthians 1:22; Matthew 12:31; Ephesians 4:30-32; Genesis 1:1; Genesis 1:26. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “God Sees Jesus Followers as “In Christ”: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus””: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Essentials Part 3 – Incomplete Finished Work MESSAGE SUMMARY: Today, we delve into the profound mystery of the Trinity - One God, not three. We explore the eternal nature of God the Son, Jesus Christ, as revealed in John 1:1. The message walks us through Jesus' earthly ministry, from His incarnation to His ascension, reminding us of His ultimate role as King of Kings. We're challenged to reflect on how this understanding of Christ's divinity and sovereignty impacts our daily walk with Him. The Holy Spirit's role is also highlighted, emphasizing how He empowers us to commune with God and hear His voice amidst life's challenges. This message invites us to deepen our appreciation of the Trinity and how each person - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - works in perfect unity for our salvation and spiritual growth.     TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 1:11; Timothy 6:15; Revelation 19:11-16; Genesis 1:2; John 4:24; John 14:16. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Our Relationship with God Is Based Solely on Our Relationship with God, and He Desires to Have a Relationship with Each of Us”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Essentials Part 2 – More than Just a Man MESSAGE SUMMARY: In our exploration of Jesus Christ's identity, we delve into the profound truth that He is more than just a man. We examine His pre-incarnate existence, His claims to divinity, and the historical responses to these claims. The Gospel of John provides key insights, particularly John 1:1 and 1:14, emphasizing Christ's eternal nature and His incarnation. As we reflect on Jesus' 'I am' statements, we're confronted with His bold assertions of equality with God. This message challenges us to consider our personal response to Christ's identity. Will we ignore, deny, or embrace Him as Lord? The story of the six-year-old girl describing Jesus as 'God with skin on' beautifully encapsulates the mystery of the incarnation. This exploration invites us to open our hearts, yielding our lives fully to Christ's lordship, and experiencing the transformative peace that comes from truly knowing Him.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. John 1:12f SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Romans 6:23; Colossians 2:13; Ephesians 1:7; John 1:1-4; John 8:58. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “As a Jesus Follower, the Greatest Witness for the Gospel that You Can Give Is for Others to See Jesus IN You”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Essentials Part1 – People of the Book MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful message, we're reminded of the profound importance of Scripture in our lives as believers. The central theme revolves around 2 Timothy 3:16, emphasizing that all Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. We're challenged to consider our relationship with the Bible - is it merely a collection of religious writings, or do we view it as sacred, authoritative, and life-changing? The message encourages us to see the Bible as more than just a book, but as the living Word of God that can transform our lives. We're urged to not only read and study Scripture but to apply it daily, allowing it to shape our decisions, actions, and character. This overview reminds us that as 'people of the book,' we have a responsibility to engage deeply with God's Word, not just hearing it, but becoming doers who act on its truths. In a world bombarding us with messages, how are we counteracting this with the life-giving words of Scripture?   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Revelation 3:20; John 1:12; Colossians 1:15; Matthew 5:17-19 A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Is Your Faith Yours, or Is Your Faith a Faith Derivative of the Faith of Others?”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

How God Says He Loves Us: Part 2 -- The Covenant with Abraham MESSAGE SUMMARY: Throughout human history, God has reached out to humans for a personal relationship and to express His love for humankind. We have a God that loves us so much, and God's love for us is expressed to us through His “covenants”. Also, God's “covenants” reveal to us His grace and faithfulness. In today's message, we will discuss God's Covenant with Abram and Abraham. A “covenant” can be defined as an “oath or promise of God”. In a Biblical covenant: 1) God establishes the Covenant; 2) God always implies that “I am your God, and you are my people” – God desires a personal relationship with us; and 3) God sets the covenant's terms and rulers. In Genesis 12:1-5, God presents His promise to Abram: “Now the LORD said to Abram, ‘Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.' So Abram went, as the LORD had told him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran.". In Genesis 15:18, God makes a covenant with Abram: “On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, ‘To your offspring I give his land . . .'”. In Genesis 17:4-5, God makes another covenant with Abram changing Abram's name to Abraham: “Behold, my covenant is with you, and you shall be the father of a multitude of nations. No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations.". in Genesis 21-1-4, Abraham's son through Sarah, that God had promised Abraham, is born: “The LORD visited Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did to Sarah as he had promised. And Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age at the time of which God had spoken to him. Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him, whom Sarah bore him, Isaac. And Abraham circumcised his son Isaac when he was eight days old, as God had commanded him.”. In Genesis 22:1-18, the final part of God's covenant with Abraham is found when God provided the blood sacrifice of the lamb that sealed His covenant with Abraham: “And the angel of the LORD called to Abraham a second time from heaven and said, ‘By myself I have sworn, declares the LORD, because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you, and I will surely multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. And your offspring shall possess the gate of his enemies, and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed my voice.'”. The significance of God's covenant with Abraham includes: 1) Abraham believed God and had faith, and because of Abraham's faith God made Abraham righteous – foretells the significance of the Gospel because God's covenant through Jesus for us is a covenant of faith; 2) God's covenant with Abraham foreshadows His covenant through Jesus as he Messiah, the Christ – Isaac is the first legitimate son of Abraham, and Jesus is considered the last son through Abraham, Isaac voluntarily went to the alter and Jesus voluntarily went to the cross, Abraham offered his son as a sacrifice and God gave His Son as a sacrifice; 3) God's covenant is still being fulfilled today – in a physical sense, the covenant is fulfilled through the Arabs and the Jews since both consider Abraham as their father and fulfilled in a spiritual sense through Jesus as Paul tells us in Galatians 3:14: “so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.". Remember, the God who made covenant with Abraham is Jesus.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Luke 11:13 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Romans 10:9; Genesis 9:20-29; Genesis 3:15; Genesis 12:1-9; Genesis 15:1-27; 1 Peter 3:18-21; John 3:16-17; Hebrews 11:6; Galatians 3:7-9,14-16,29. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “God, the Father, Is Spirit; Jesus Followers Must Worship the Father in Spirit and Truth with Reality and Honesty and Not a Façade”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

How God Says He Loves Us: Part 1 -- The Covenant with Noah MESSAGE SUMMARY: We have a God that loves us so much, and God's love for us is expressed to us through His “covenants”. Also, God's “covenants” reveal to us His grace and faithfulness. In today's message, we will discuss God's Covenant with Noah. A “covenant” can be defined as an “oath or promise of God”. In a Biblical covenant: 1) God establishes the Covenant; 2) God always implies that “I am your God, and you are my people” – God desires a personal relationship with us; and 3) God sets the covenant's terms and rulers. In Genesis 6:5-22, the corruption of humanity, through mankind's sin after the Fall, became too much for God, and He became sorry that He made mankind. From Genesis, we know that God “grieved in His heart” because of human evil, corruption, and violence. However, Noah found favor in the eyes of God. Noah was righteous and blameless, and Noah “walked with God”. After destroying all humans and all other inhabitants of the earth, except for Noah, his family, those animals that Noah collected for His arch, God “blessed Noah in Genesis 9:1-29; and God established His covenant with Noah in Genesis 9:9-1:10,11-13: “'Behold, I establish my covenant with you and your offspring after you, and with every living creature that is with you . . . that never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of the flood, and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.' And God said, ‘This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I have set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.'". Therefore, this covenant is not only with Noah and all other living things on the earth; but God's covenant with Noah is with us too! The “rain'bow'” is a sign of this covenant between Noah and all humanity; and this “rainbow” is, also, a sign of God's love, grace, and mercy. In 1 Peter 3:18-21, the Apostle Peter relates Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross, which is redemptive covenant for our salvation, to God's earlier covenant with Noah: “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, because they formerly did not obey, when God's patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ . . .". In this text from 1 Peter, we learn that our “baptism” represents our Salvation through Jesus. Like Noah and his family, we have been saved “through the water” not “by the water”. Therefore, “baptism” is another covenant between God and all humanity, through God's Grace, to save mankind from itself if we accept God's Grace. God does not see us, now, in our sin like humanity's evil of Noah's time; rather, God sees us through the eternal (like the “rainbow”) “Justifying” covenant blood of Jesus.     TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Genesis 6:5-22; Genesis 9:1-29; 1 Peter 3:18-21; Psalms 28:1-9. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Jesus Followers Have Eternal Life, Even Before their Earthly Death, Because Whoever “believes him {God} who sent me {Jesus}” ”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Beginnings of Prayer – Part 5: Start Now and Improve Your Prayer Life -- A Robust Prayer Life Will Transform Your Life MESSAGE SUMMARY: INTRODUCTIOIN -- Prayer is: 1) spending time with God – acknowledging God's presence in all our lives' activities; and 2) conversation with God – listening to and talking with God. Prayer reflects on our relationship with God. Why don't we pray. The Apostle James, in James 4:2-3, provides a perspective regarding Prayer Life: “You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions." In praying, we should know the difference between prayers of "petition" (praying for one's own needs) and prayers of "intercession" (praying for the needs of others). God wants prayers of "petition" from us -- all our needs and concerns should be brought to Him in prayer because He loves and cares for us. However, God want us to, also, focus on others and their needs (intercession) -- physical and spiritual. "Intercessory prayer” is fundamental to deepening our prayer life and our personal relationship with God. SUNDAY MESSAGE -- This Sermon is Q and A session on prayer with Archbishop Beach and Rev. Matt Jordan. Jan Karen, author of the Mitford Series, says that "In the big issues of life as well as the small, God wants to hear from His children . . . the most important thing we get from prayer is the relationship that we enter into with God.". As Jesus tells us in Luke 11:9-10 that, as His followers we are both expected to pray and to ask as a fundamental part of our lives in Him: “And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.". Additionally, Luke tells us, in Luke 18:1, that we should continue to pray: “And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart." How do you know that God has answered your prayer? What does it mean when God has not answered your prayer? Why, if God answers our prayers, should we ask for others to pray for us? How do we know if we are praying in the Holy Spirit? Why does my mind start wandering when I start praying? How good is it to have a prayer journal? Why, sometimes, are we tempted to sin when we pray? How important is fasting? Do we stop in our prayers enough to give thanks to the Lord? The common position, derivative of all these questions is expressed to us in Ephesians 3:21b-24 that prayer is life changing and fundamental to a life in Jesus: “the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.". Pray specific prayers, in the Holy Spirit and in Scripture, for ourselves and for others -- be persistent.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Jeremiah 33:3; Luke 11:1-13; Luke 18:1-8; Luke 22:44; Ephesians 3:20. (Click the blue below to read the full Bible text for these scripture references in BOLD.). A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “For Jesus Followers, Fasting, with Food, Will Symbolize a Victory Over Oneself and Solidify a Personal Relationship with God”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Beginnings In Prayer - Part 4: Listening to God Because He Desires to Speak to Us MESSAGE SUMMARY: Prayer is: 1) spending time with God – acknowledging God's presence in all our lives' activities; and 2) conversation with God – listening to and talking with God. Prayer reflects on our relationship with God. Why don't we pray. The Apostle James, in James 4:2-3, provides a perspective regarding Prayer Life: “You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions." In praying, we should know the difference between prayers of "petition" (praying for one's own needs) and prayers of "intercession" (praying for the needs of others). God wants prayers of "petition" from us -- all our needs and concerns should be brought to Him in prayer because He loves and cares for us. However, God want us to, also, focus on others and their needs (intercession) -- physical and spiritual. "Intercessory prayer” is fundamental to deepening our prayer life and our personal relationship with God. We need to consider "how we listen" to and for God. Usually, God speaks through the Holy Spirit like He spoke to Mary. Jesus tells us about the Holy Spirit and “listening” through the Apostle John in John 16:13-15: “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.". God, mostly but not always, uses that "still small voice" in our minds. We need to seek out places and times so that we can listen for and to God. Listening validates relationships in our secular lives -- why would it be different in our relationship with God? God wants to speak to us because we have a relationship with Him -- He loves us and wants to be with us. God's "Counselor", the Holy Spirit, is His primary communication bridge to us. God speaks to us, through the Holy Spirit, as He promised. God guides us to all truth -- to His direction for our lives. When God speaks to you, write it down, as God tells us through the prophet Habakkuk in Habakkuk 2:2-3: “And the LORD answered me: ‘Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end — it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.'". God, often, speaks to us through the Bible, through other people, and through our circumstances. As we listen for God, we need to respond to God as Samuel did in Samuel 3:10b: "Speak Lord, for your servant is listening.". Pray specific prayers, in the Holy Spirit and in Scripture, for ourselves and for others -- be persistent.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. (John 1:12f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Jeremiah 33:3; John 16:7-14; John 10:1-25; Habakkuk 2:1-3; 1 Samuel 3:1-18. (Click the blue below to read the full Bible text for these scripture references in BOLD.). WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Daniel's Prayer Was “seeking him {God} by prayer and pleas for mercy with fasting . . . ‘O Lord, the great and awesome God . . . we have sinned and done wrong'””: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE LINK: www.awordfromthelord.org DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Beginnings in Prayer -- Part 2: Faith, a Gift of the Spirit, Is a Key Element in Our Relationship with God Through Prayer MESSAGE SUMMARY: Part I -- INTRODUCTION: We are told in the New testament that there is a Spiritual Gift of faith that God imparts, but most of us don't use our Spiritual Gift of faith. Faith is like a muscle; if we don't use it, like a muscle, faith atrophies. You cannot live on yesterday's faith -- you must use your faith, or you will become weak in your faith!  Part II -- PRAYER - 2: Prayer is: 1) spending time with God – acknowledging God's presence in all our lives' activities; and 2) conversation with God – listening to and talking with God. Prayer reflects on our relationship with God. Why don't we pray. The Apostle James, in James 4:2-3, provides a perspective regarding Prayer Life: “You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions." We are trying to encounter God as He wants us to through prayer. Prayer is an incredible Spiritual Gift that the Lord has given us; a gift so that we might know Him and to accomplish His purpose for us. When discussing prayer, the attribute of prayer, that is often left out, is faith. As Jesus tells us about the importance of faith in Matthew 15:25-28: “But she came and knelt before him, saying, ‘Lord, help me.' And he answered, ‘It is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.' She said, ‘Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table.' Then Jesus answered her, ‘O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.' And her daughter was healed instantly.”. It does not take much faith to have great faith. The writer Hebrews, in Hebrews 11:1-3, defines faith: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.". In order to create and sustain our prayer life, we must: 1) have faith and believe that God exists; 2) believe that God will honor your seeking Him – start by praying as you are; and 3) exercise your faith – stretch your prayers for God. If you have a prayer life, how do you approach your prayer life? Do you enter your God relationship through prayer with a faith expectation and confident that God hears you and will respond? Just remember that Jesus taught us that it does not take much faith to have "great faith". Faith is what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Prayer exercise for this week: 1) pick some issue for which you need direction; 2) ask god, by faith, to give you an answer; and 3) all week long, come to God asking for an answer until you get an answer. Faith is the power behind your prayers.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! (Luke 11:13). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 8:10; Matthew 15:25-28; Matthew 8:26; Matthew 14:31; Matthew 17:20-21; Hebrews 11:1-3; Hebrews 11:6. (Click the blue below to read the full Bible text for these scripture references in BOLD.). WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “The Old Testament Law of “an eye for an eye” Was Reversed by Jesus in His “Great Commandment” in which Jesus Followers Are “to Love””: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ A WORDFROM THE LORD WEBSITE LINK: www.awordfromthelord.org DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Beginnings in Prayer – Part 1: How is Your Prayer Life; Is Anything in Your Life More Important than Prayer? MESSAGE SUMMARY: Part I: Be ready for the Lord and pay attention to and for His second coming. “The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.” We, as believers, should be aware of God's signs as they arise. Part II: Prayer is: 1) spending time with God – acknowledging God's presence in all our lives' activities; and 2) conversation with God – listening to and talking with God. Prayer reflects on our relationship with God. Why don't we pray. The Apostle James, in James 4:2-3, provides a perspective regarding Prayer Life: “You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions." Relationships, especially your personal relationship with God, are two-way -- listening and speaking. Sometimes, in our prayers, it is more important to listen for and to God than to speak and ask. Spending time with God, in sweet fellowship and in conversation, happens when we make prayer an important priority in a life filled with faith, repentance, and trust. God wants us to “pray without ceasing” and as a part of all our life activities. If prayer is so essential to a Christian way of life, why is our Prayer Life so insufficient? We don't have a sufficient Prayer Life because: 1) we don't know that prayer is important -- ignorance; 2) we don't know how to pray -- knowledge; 3) we are too busy to pray -- priority; 4) we don't really believe prayer will help or prayer will be effective -- faith; 5) we don't want to face the sin in our lives – repentance; 6) we may be afraid to pray – trust; and 7) our past history with prayer – experience,. To recharge our Prayer Life this week, perform this exercise: for five minutes each day, pray about a – 1) situation, 2) circumstance, and a 3) person or relationship. Imagine what our lives and the lives of our community and country would be like if we were a people of prayer with a sufficient Prayer Life!   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen.  Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 1 John 2:1-6; James 4:2-3; Matthew 7:7-11; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-17. (Click the blue below to read the full Bible text for these scripture references in BOLD.). WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Jesus Followers Should Fear, Respect, and Praise God's Power, Sovereignty, and Holiness; but in Life's Trials They Should “fear not for I {Jesus} am with you always””: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE LINK: www.awordfromthelord.org DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

The Struggle with Time -- Until I Determine How I Want to Use My Time, Others Will Determine How My Time Is Used MESSAGE SUMMARY: Life will never settle down until we chose to settle down in living our lives. Life is a choice more than we realize. We are given twenty-four hours in a day, and if God had wanted us to have thirty-six hours in our day, He would have given us a thirty-six-hour day. Therefore, if we don't have enough clock in our day, we are doing some things we should not be doing. We can determine some of the time traps that keep us from serving the Lord and how we can address the traps to better serve ourselves and the Lord. Is the clock our dictator; do we allocate time to serve the Lord, our families, and our work? How do we delegate? Life will never settle down until we choose to settle down; life is a choice. To manage our time as God would have us manage our lives: 1) Work is important and necessary, but working is not living; 2) Time is life first and then money; 3) More life productivity means more time; 4) How we use our time significantly effects our self-esteem, identity, and our fulfillment; and 5) We cannot control time, but we can control how we use time. We must get control of the time issues in our lives. The simple formula for managing our time: Pray, Prioritize, and Plan. Managing our time better is a fundamental question as we end a year and begin a new year. We must learn to honor the Lord by "honoring our time".    TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen.  Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. (John 1:12f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Ecclesiastes 3:1-8; Ecclesiastes 9:11-17; 1 Corinthians 10:31; 2 Corinthians 6:2; Romans 8:18. (Click the blue below to read the full Bible text for these scripture references in BOLD.). WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “At Jesus' Crucifixion and Death, the “Temple Veil” Was Torn; After Jesus Easter Resurrection, You Now Pray Directly with God”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE LINK: www.awordfromthelord.org DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

A Christmas Message MESSAGE SUMMARY: The real meaning of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus the Christ – the Messiah, who is the Savior of the World. Christians emphasize Christmas and Jesus' birth because His birth: 1) fulfills many Biblical prophesies, especially n terms of the time and location of Jesus' birth; 2) points the fact that Jesus was more than just a man; 3) and life saw Jesus claim the right to forgive sins; 4) led Jesus to call God His “Father”, which indicated that Jesus was God; 5) resulted in Jesus' Resurrection, which validated Jesus' claims and made Him different; and 6) was God, through Jesus' birth, still trying to get our attention. God, through His Grace and through the birth of Jesus, did for us what we could not do for ourselves – save ourselves from our sins and our death that would result from our sins. God, through the birth of Jesus -- the God-Man, entered into our earthly mess to save us because, after God's Grace and Jesus' birth, all our sin now resides on Jesus. God's Grace through the birth of Jesus, demonstrates God's love for us. God wants us to know that Jesus was born for us out of His love for us. Therefore, we need to consider that God, the Creator of the Universe, entered the world, through the baby Jesus for us so that we might have a personal relationship with Him. Have you yielded to God so that your mind's consideration of God's Grace, love, and Jesus' birth can move from your mind into a commitment of both your mind and your heart to your faith in Jesus as your Savior and into God's service? Until we yield to God's lordship over our lives, we are saying to God that “we don't need your love”. Is Jesus your Lord and, therefore, your Savior? God has given you the greatest Christmas gift that you will ever receive. Have you accepted His Gift and opened His gift into your life? If not, then why not? With your hands open, you can accept God's Christmas gift by saying: “I am sorry; thank you; and please”.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Corinthians 5:21). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Luke 2:9-11; Matthew 1:21; Isaiah 53:4-6; Colossians 1:15-19; Hebrews 1-3; John 1:4; John10:30; John 14:8-11; John 3:16-17. (Click the blue below to read the full Bible text for these scripture references in BOLD.). WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “When Jesus Asked You: “Whom do you say that I am?”, Did You Answer Jesus: “You are my God and the Lord of my Life!”?”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE LINK: www.awordfromthelord.org DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

This Christmas, Dr. Beach Reminds Us of the Profound Mystery at the Heart of Our Faith - God Entering the World as a Baby; Even in Today's World of Personal Struggles and Global Conflicts MESSAGE SUMMARY: As we gather to celebrate Christmas, we're reminded of the profound mystery at the heart of our faith: God entering the world as a baby. This audacious claim, which may seem incredible to modern ears, is the cornerstone of our belief. In the midst of personal struggles and global conflicts, the Christmas message brings hope and transformation. It reminds us that no matter what challenges we face, God's love breaks into our world, offering forgiveness, redemption, and the promise of eternal life. The nativity story isn't just a historical event; it's a powerful reminder that God meets us in our pain and suffering, offering a path to healing and restoration. As we reflect on this miracle, let's open our hearts to the transformative power of Christ's birth and allow it to renew our faith and perspective on life's difficulties. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: 1) The birth of Jesus: a) Luke 2:1-7 (The nativity story) and b) Matthew 1:18-25 (The birth of Jesus) 2) God becoming human: a) John 1:14 "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." and b) Philippians 2:6-7 "Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness."; 3) Jesus' ministry and miracles: Matthew 4:23 "Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people."; 4) Forgiveness of sins and eternal life: a) John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." and b) John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."; 5) God's presence in suffering:  Romans 8:38-39 "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." and 6) The transformative power of faith: 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!". A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL

A Christmas Message MESSAGE SUMMARY: The real meaning of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus the Christ – the Messiah, who is the Savior of the World. Christians emphasize Christmas and Jesus' birth because His birth: 1) fulfills many Biblical prophesies, especially n terms of the time and location of Jesus' birth; 2) points the fact that Jesus was more than just a man; 3) and life saw Jesus claim the right to forgive sins; 4) led Jesus to call God His “Father”, which indicated that Jesus was God; 5) resulted in Jesus' Resurrection, which validated Jesus' claims and made Him different; and 6) was God, through Jesus' birth, still trying to get our attention. God, through His Grace and through the birth of Jesus, did for us what we could not do for ourselves – save ourselves from our sins and our death that would result from our sins. God, through the birth of Jesus -- the God-Man, entered into our earthly mess to save us because, after God's Grace and Jesus' birth, all our sin now resides on Jesus. God's Grace through the birth of Jesus, demonstrates God's love for us. God wants us to know that Jesus was born for us out of His love for us. Therefore, we need to consider that God, the Creator of the Universe, entered the world, through the baby Jesus for us so that we might have a personal relationship with Him. Have you yielded to God so that your mind's consideration of God's Grace, love, and Jesus' birth can move from your mind into a commitment of both your mind and your heart to your faith in Jesus as your Savior and into God's service? Until we yield to God's lordship over our lives, we are saying to God that “we don't need your love”. Is Jesus your Lord and, therefore, your Savior? God has given you the greatest Christmas gift that you will ever receive. Have you accepted His Gift and opened His gift into your life? If not, then why not? With your hands open, you can accept God's Christmas gift by saying: “I am sorry; thank you; and please”. TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Corinthians 5:21). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Luke 2:9-11; Matthew 1:21; Isaiah 53:4-6; Colossians 1:15-19; Hebrews 1-3; John 1:4; John10:30; John 14:8-11; John 3:16-17. (Click the blue below to read the full Bible text for these scripture references in BOLD.). WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Do You Struggle with Your “Prayer Life”? Find a Quiet Place for Your Personal Relationship with God and Pray to the Universe's Creator”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ A WORDFROM THE LORD WEBSITE LINK: www.awordfromthelord.org DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

This Christmas, Dr. Beach Reminds Us of Our Faith's Paradox - In a World Filled with Both Joy and Suffering, the Miraculous Story of God Becoming Human Stands as a Beacon of Hope MESSAGE SUMMARY: As we gather to celebrate Christmas, we're reminded of the profound paradox at the heart of our faith. In a world filled with joy and suffering, the miraculous story of God becoming human stands as a beacon of hope. This audacious claim—that the Creator of the universe entered our world as a helpless infant—challenges our understanding and invites us to embrace a deeper truth. The Nativity story isn't just a historical event; it's a powerful symbol of God's love and commitment to humanity. In the midst of personal struggles, global conflicts, and widespread persecution, the Christmas message reminds us that we're not alone. God's incarnation in Jesus offers us the promise of transformation, forgiveness, and eternal life. As we reflect on this incredible gift, we're called to see beyond our current circumstances and recognize the divine presence that can bring healing and hope to even the darkest situations. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: 1) The birth of Jesus: a) Luke 2:1-7 (The nativity story) and b) Matthew 1:18-25 (The birth of Jesus) 2) God becoming human: a) John 1:14 "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." and b) Philippians 2:6-7 "Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness."; 3) Jesus' ministry and miracles: Matthew 4:23 "Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people."; 4) Forgiveness of sins and eternal life: a) John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." and b) John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."; 5) God's presence in suffering:  Romans 8:38-39 "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." and 6) The transformative power of faith: 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!". A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL

This Christmas, Dr. Beach Reminds Us of the Profound Mystery at the Heart of Our Faith - God Entering the World as a Baby; Even in Today's World of Personal Struggles and Global Conflicts MESSAGE SUMMARY: As we gather to celebrate Christmas, we're reminded of the profound mystery at the heart of our faith: God entering the world as a baby. This audacious claim, which may seem incredible to modern ears, is the cornerstone of our belief. In the midst of personal struggles and global conflicts, the Christmas message brings hope and transformation. It reminds us that no matter what challenges we face, God's love breaks into our world, offering forgiveness, redemption, and the promise of eternal life. The nativity story isn't just a historical event; it's a powerful reminder that God meets us in our pain and suffering, offering a path to healing and restoration. As we reflect on this miracle, let's open our hearts to the transformative power of Christ's birth and allow it to renew our faith and perspective on life's difficulties. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: 1) The birth of Jesus: a) Luke 2:1-7 (The nativity story) and b) Matthew 1:18-25 (The birth of Jesus) 2) God becoming human: a) John 1:14 "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." and b) Philippians 2:6-7 "Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness."; 3) Jesus' ministry and miracles: Matthew 4:23 "Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people."; 4) Forgiveness of sins and eternal life: a) John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." and b) John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."; 5) God's presence in suffering:  Romans 8:38-39 "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." and 6) The transformative power of faith: 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!". A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL

Today, We Are Reminded of the Genealogy that Isn't Just a List of Names; It's a Testament to God's Faithfulness Throughout History MESSAGE SUMMARY: As we journey through Advent, we're invited to explore the profound lineage of Jesus Christ, tracing His roots from Adam to the Messiah. This genealogy isn't just a list of names; it's a testament to God's faithfulness throughout history. We see how God worked through imperfect people - from Rahab to King David - to bring about His perfect plan. This reminds us that our own flaws and failures don't disqualify us from being part of God's story. As we reflect on this lineage, we're challenged to consider our place in God's ongoing narrative. How might God be using our lives, with all their complexities, to further His kingdom? Let's embrace the truth that in Christ, we too are part of this grand story of redemption. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: 1) Matthew 1:1-17 - This passage contains the genealogy of Jesus Christ as described in the sermon, tracing from Abraham to Jesus; 2) Luke 3:23-38 - While not directly mentioned, this passage provides another genealogy of Jesus, tracing back to Adam; 3) Ruth 4:18-22 - This passage mentions some of the names in Jesus' lineage, including Boaz, Obed, Jesse, and David; 4) 2 Samuel 12:24 - This verse mentions Solomon's birth to David and Bathsheba (referred to in the sermon as "Uriah's own wife"); 5) Matthew 1:18-25 - These verses describe Joseph taking Mary as his wife and the birth of Jesus; 6) Luke 1:26-38 - This passage describes the annunciation to Mary that she would give birth to Jesus; and 7) John 1:41 - This verse refers to Jesus as the Christ (Messiah). A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL

Today, We Are Reminded of the Genealogy, Leading to Jesus Christ, which Stretches from Adam to Jesus and Revealing God's Intricate Plan for Your Redemption MESSAGE SUMMARY: As we journey through Advent, we're reminded of the profound lineage that leads to Jesus Christ. This genealogy, stretching from Adam to Jesus, reveals God's intricate plan of redemption woven throughout history. We see how each name in this family tree, from Abraham to David to Joseph, played a crucial role in God's grand narrative. This reminds us that our own lives, however ordinary they may seem, are part of a greater story. As we reflect on this lineage, we're challenged to consider our place in God's ongoing work. How might our faith and actions today contribute to His eternal purpose? Let's embrace the wonder of being part of this divine storyline, recognizing that the birth of Christ is not just a historical event, but the culmination of generations of faith and the beginning of our own spiritual journey. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: 1) Matthew 1:1-17 - This passage contains the genealogy of Jesus Christ as described in the sermon, tracing from Abraham to Jesus; 2) Luke 3:23-38 - While not directly mentioned, this passage provides another genealogy of Jesus, tracing back to Adam; 3) Ruth 4:18-22 - This passage mentions some of the names in Jesus' lineage, including Boaz, Obed, Jesse, and David; 4) 2 Samuel 12:24 - This verse mentions Solomon's birth to David and Bathsheba (referred to in the sermon as "Uriah's own wife"); 5) Matthew 1:18-25 - These verses describe Joseph taking Mary as his wife and the birth of Jesus; 6) Luke 1:26-38 - This passage describes the annunciation to Mary that she would give birth to Jesus; and 7) John 1:41 - This verse refers to Jesus as the Christ (Messiah). A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL

Consider Joseph's Powerful Reflection on His Love and Divine Purpose. Are You Willing to Accept Unanticipated/Unwanted Roles God Has Prepared for You? MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful reflection on love and divine purpose, we're invited to explore the profound journey of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. As we delve into this narrative, we're reminded of the transformative power of faith and obedience. Joseph's story, rooted in the Gospel of Matthew, showcases how God's plans often unfold in unexpected ways, challenging our preconceptions and inviting us into a deeper trust. The transcription beautifully illustrates the internal struggle Joseph faced, balancing his love for Mary with his sense of duty and the overwhelming responsibility of raising the Son of God. This narrative encourages us to consider how we respond to God's surprising interventions in our own lives. Are we ready, like Joseph, to embrace a calling that may seem daunting or even impossible? As we reflect on Joseph's journey, we're prompted to examine our own willingness to step into roles that God has prepared for us, even when they seem beyond our capabilities. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV) 1) Joseph and Mary's situation: Matthew 1:18-25 - The story of Joseph considering divorcing Mary quietly and the angel's message to him; 2) Jesus as the Son of God and Son of David: Luke 1:32-33 - "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David."; 3) The virgin birth prophecy: Isaiah 7:14 - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."; 4) God's guidance through dreams: Matthew 1:20 - "But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream..."; 5) Joseph's role as Jesus' earthly father: Luke 2:41-52 - The story of Jesus in the temple, where Joseph is referred to as His father; 6) The concept of adoption in God's plan: Ephesians 1:5 - "He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will."; 7) Jesus as Emmanuel (God with us): Matthew 1:23 - "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us"); 8) God's overflowing love: 1 John 4:8 - "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."; and 9) The theme of obedience to God's commands: John 14:15 - "If you love me, keep my commands.". A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL

Consider Joseph's Powerful Reflection on His Love and Divine Purpose. Are You Willing to Accept Unanticipated/Unwanted Roles God Has Prepared for You? MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful reflection on love and divine purpose, we're invited to explore the profound journey of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. As we delve into this narrative, we're reminded of the transformative power of faith and obedience. Joseph's story, rooted in the Gospel of Matthew, showcases how God's plans often unfold in unexpected ways, challenging our preconceptions and inviting us into a deeper trust. The transcription beautifully illustrates the internal struggle Joseph faced, balancing his love for Mary with his sense of duty and the overwhelming responsibility of raising the Son of God. This narrative encourages us to consider how we respond to God's surprising interventions in our own lives. Are we ready, like Joseph, to embrace a calling that may seem daunting or even impossible? As we reflect on Joseph's journey, we're prompted to examine our own willingness to step into roles that God has prepared for us, even when they seem beyond our capabilities. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV) 1) Joseph and Mary's situation: Matthew 1:18-25 - The story of Joseph considering divorcing Mary quietly and the angel's message to him; 2) Jesus as the Son of God and Son of David: Luke 1:32-33 - "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David."; 3) The virgin birth prophecy: Isaiah 7:14 - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."; 4) God's guidance through dreams: Matthew 1:20 - "But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream..."; 5) Joseph's role as Jesus' earthly father: Luke 2:41-52 - The story of Jesus in the temple, where Joseph is referred to as His father; 6) The concept of adoption in God's plan: Ephesians 1:5 - "He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will."; 7) Jesus as Emmanuel (God with us): Matthew 1:23 - "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us"); 8) God's overflowing love: 1 John 4:8 - "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."; and 9) The theme of obedience to God's commands: John 14:15 - "If you love me, keep my commands.". A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL   AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art. 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ. 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit's notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God's Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son. 12/7/24 & 12/8/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus. 12/11/24 & 12/14/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God's favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus 12/15/24 & 12/18/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God's Son. 12/19/24 & 12/21/24 & 12/22/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus' genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born”  - The Christ!

Joseph Experiences a Profound Exploration of Human Love and Divine Purpose as He Grapples with His Role in the Greatest Story Ever Told MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this profound exploration of love and divine purpose, we're invited to witness the inner struggle of Joseph as he grapples with his role in the greatest story ever told. The narrative beautifully weaves together themes of trust, obedience, and the transformative power of God's love. We're reminded that sometimes our greatest callings come wrapped in uncertainty, much like Joseph's middle-of-the-night revelations. The episode challenges us to consider: How often do we tremble at the magnitude of God's plans for our lives? It encourages us to embrace the 'desert rain' of divine love, even when it defies our expectations. As we reflect on Joseph's journey, we're prompted to examine our own willingness to step into roles that God has prepared for us, even when they seem beyond our capabilities. This message resonates deeply with anyone facing life-changing decisions or unexpected responsibilities, reminding us that with God's guidance, we can rise to extraordinary callings. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV) 1) Joseph and Mary's situation: Matthew 1:18-25 - The story of Joseph considering divorcing Mary quietly and the angel's message to him; 2) Jesus as the Son of God and Son of David: Luke 1:32-33 - "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David."; 3) The virgin birth prophecy: Isaiah 7:14 - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."; 4) God's guidance through dreams: Matthew 1:20 - "But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream..."; 5) Joseph's role as Jesus' earthly father: Luke 2:41-52 - The story of Jesus in the temple, where Joseph is referred to as His father; 6) The concept of adoption in God's plan: Ephesians 1:5 - "He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will."; 7) Jesus as Emmanuel (God with us): Matthew 1:23 - "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us"); 8) God's overflowing love: 1 John 4:8 - "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."; and 9) The theme of obedience to God's commands: John 14:15 - "If you love me, keep my commands.". A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL   AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art. 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ. 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit's notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God's Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son. 12/7/24 & 12/8/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus. 12/11/24 & 12/14/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God's favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus 12/15/24 & 12/18/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God's Son. 12/19/24 & 12/21/24 & 12/22/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus' genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born”  - The Christ!

We Are Invited to Reflect on Joseph's Extraordinary Journey, As We Contemplate His Struggles Along with His Love and Joy MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this profound exploration of love and divine purpose, we're invited to reflect on Joseph's extraordinary journey. As we contemplate his struggles with an unexpected pregnancy and the weight of raising the Son of God, we're reminded of how God often works in mysterious ways. The story challenges us to trust in God's plan, even when it seems overwhelming or contrary to societal norms. Just as Joseph was called to 'adopt the one who will adopt the world,' we too are asked to embrace our unique roles in God's grand design. This narrative encourages us to see beyond our immediate circumstances and recognize the beautiful symphony God is composing in our lives. It's a powerful reminder that our perceived limitations or fears don't define us; instead, it's our willingness to say 'yes' to God's calling that shapes our destiny. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV) 1) Joseph and Mary's situation: Matthew 1:18-25 - The story of Joseph considering divorcing Mary quietly and the angel's message to him; 2) Jesus as the Son of God and Son of David: Luke 1:32-33 - "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David."; 3) The virgin birth prophecy: Isaiah 7:14 - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."; 4) God's guidance through dreams: Matthew 1:20 - "But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream..."; 5) Joseph's role as Jesus' earthly father: Luke 2:41-52 - The story of Jesus in the temple, where Joseph is referred to as His father; 6) The concept of adoption in God's plan: Ephesians 1:5 - "He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will."; 7) Jesus as Emmanuel (God with us): Matthew 1:23 - "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us"); 8) God's overflowing love: 1 John 4:8 - "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."; and 9) The theme of obedience to God's commands: John 14:15 - "If you love me, keep my commands.". A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art. 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ. 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit's notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God's Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son. 12/7/24 & 12/8/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus. 12/11/24 & 12/14/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God's favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus 12/15/24 & 12/18/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God's Son. 12/19/24 & 12/21/24 & 12/22/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus' genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born”  - The Christ!

Why We Do Christmas MESSAGE SUMMARY: Introduction: We are still in the season of Advent, which means “coming” or “arrival”. The Church begins this season of “arrival” or Advent as the time we recognize and celebrate the “arrival” of Jesus – both Jesus' “first coming” and His “second coming”. We celebrate Jesus' “first coming” on Christmas Eve. The season of Advent is, also, a season of hope; and Advent is the beginning of our Church's “New Year”. Message:  What does Christmas mean to you? “Could we be missing the point of what Christmas is all about”? Irrespective of all the personal, social and cultural noise we encounter around the Christmas season, we must not lose sight of the fact that Christmas is all and only about Jesus. At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of the most important person that ever lived – the God and man Jesus. Is this birth and life of the Incarnate and unique Son of God, as both the Creator of the Universe and the Savior of humankind, true? The answer is a resounding “Yes!” because Jesus birth and life are based upon historical evidence. Also, the birth of Jesus is God coming among us in a desire to have a personal relationship with us and with all people. If God is so desirous of a personal relationship with us, why did God go to so much trouble to bring Jesus to us? Because, every time we sin, we are building a barrier between us and God – God is Holy, and He cannot relate to sin. Therefore, God's Grace provided Jesus as both the means of our Salvation and as an intermediary (i.e. Jesus is both God and a human without sin) from which we can have God's desired personal relationship with us. However, when Jesus died on the cross, He took on all sin and became the required and once offered sacrificial payment for all sin. Jesus birth, life, death and Resurrection became the doorway for our personal relationship with God. As Jesus tells us in Mark 10:45: “For even the Son of Man {Jesus}came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”. “God loves us because of who God is.” Why do so few of us accept God's offered gift of Salvation through His Grace? When those not yet believing look at the lives of those of us that believe, they, often, they see us living by the fruit of the flesh rather than by the fruit of the Spirit – our hypocrisy. Also, God's offer is rejected because He may require us to give up some sin that we enjoy. Additionally, some believe that the cost of becoming a Christian is too great; however, the cost of not becoming a Christian is far greater than the cost of becoming a Christian and accepting God's offer. Many refuse God's gift because they believe that they are not worthy or good enough for God and His gift. They are correct; none of us are worthy of God's gift, but that is the point – Jesus' birth, life, death and Resurrection provide us with the means a path to be worthy of God's gift. Is Jesus your Savior? God has given you the greatest Christmas gift that you will ever receive. Have you accepted His Gift and opened His gift into your life? If not, then why not? With your hands open, you can accept God's Christmas gift by saying: “I am sorry; thank you; and please”.     TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen.  Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Mark 10:45; John 15:13; John 3:16-17; Galatians 5:18-25. (Click the blue below to read the full Bible text for these scripture references in BOLD.). A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE LINK: www.awordfromthelord.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Letting God Be Lord Over Your Finances, which Are His but He Entrusted to You, Will Liberate Your Life!”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Mary's Visitation with Elizabeth Encourages Us To Be Open To the Holy Spirit, Even When It Defies Expectations MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful meditation on the Visitation, we're invited to witness the profound joy and spiritual significance of Mary's encounter with Elizabeth. This beautiful moment, recounted in Luke's Gospel, reminds us of the extraordinary ways God works in our lives. As we reflect on these two women's unanticipated pregnancies, we're challenged to recognize God's favor in unexpected places. Their shared excitement speaks to the transformative power of faith and the joy that comes from embracing God's plan. How might we, like Mary and Elizabeth, respond with joy and wonder to God's surprising interventions in our lives? This reflection encourages us to be open to the Holy Spirit's movement, even when it defies our expectations. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV1) Luke 1:39-45 - This passage describes Mary's visit to Elizabeth and their joyful interaction, which is the main focus of the sermon; 2) Luke 1:41-42 - "When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: 'Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!'" This relates to the sermon's mention of Elizabeth feeling the baby turn and recognizing Mary's blessedness; 3) Luke 1:43 - "But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" This verse aligns with the sermon's reference to Elizabeth recognizing Mary as "the mother of my Lord."; 4) Luke 1:15 - This verse, while not directly mentioned, relates to John the Baptist (Elizabeth's son) being filled with the Holy Spirit even before birth, which is alluded to in the sermon; 5) Matthew 1:18 or Luke 1:35 - These verses describe Jesus' conception by the Holy Spirit, which is hinted at in the sermon's mention of "the holy spirit that I've never known."; and 6) Luke 1:46-55 (The Magnificat) - While not directly quoted, Mary's song of praise aligns with the joyful tone and themes of blessing in the sermon. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL   AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art. 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ. 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit's notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God's Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son. 12/7/24 & 12/8/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus. 12/11/24 & 12/14/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God's favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus 12/15/24 & 12/18/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God's Son. 12/19/24 & 12/21/24 & 12/22/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus' genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born”  - The Christ!

Mary's Visitation with Elizabeth Encourages Us To Be Open To the Holy Spirit, Even When It Defies Expectations MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful meditation on the Visitation, we're invited to witness the profound joy and spiritual significance of Mary's encounter with Elizabeth. This beautiful moment, recounted in Luke's Gospel, reminds us of the extraordinary ways God works in our lives. As we reflect on these two women's unanticipated pregnancies, we're challenged to recognize God's favor in unexpected places. Their shared excitement speaks to the transformative power of faith and the joy that comes from embracing God's plan. How might we, like Mary and Elizabeth, respond with joy and wonder to God's surprising interventions in our lives? This reflection encourages us to be open to the Holy Spirit's movement, even when it defies our expectations. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV1) Luke 1:39-45 - This passage describes Mary's visit to Elizabeth and their joyful interaction, which is the main focus of the sermon; 2) Luke 1:41-42 - "When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: 'Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!'" This relates to the sermon's mention of Elizabeth feeling the baby turn and recognizing Mary's blessedness; 3) Luke 1:43 - "But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" This verse aligns with the sermon's reference to Elizabeth recognizing Mary as "the mother of my Lord."; 4) Luke 1:15 - This verse, while not directly mentioned, relates to John the Baptist (Elizabeth's son) being filled with the Holy Spirit even before birth, which is alluded to in the sermon; 5) Matthew 1:18 or Luke 1:35 - These verses describe Jesus' conception by the Holy Spirit, which is hinted at in the sermon's mention of "the holy spirit that I've never known."; and 6) Luke 1:46-55 (The Magnificat) - While not directly quoted, Mary's song of praise aligns with the joyful tone and themes of blessing in the sermon. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL   AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art. 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ. 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit's notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God's Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son. 12/7/24 & 12/8/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus. 12/11/24 & 12/14/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God's favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus 12/15/24 & 12/18/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God's Son. 12/19/24 & 12/21/24 & 12/22/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus' genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born”  - The Christ!

The Angel's Message to Mary Is God's Testament to His Unfathomable Love and Plan for Humanity's Redemption MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this profound exploration of the Annunciation, we're invited to witness the moment that changed history forever. The angel's message to Mary isn't just a historical event; it's a testament to God's unfathomable love and His plan for humanity's redemption. As we reflect on Mary's humble circumstances - her dirt-stained nails and worn knees - we're reminded that God often chooses the unexpected to accomplish His greatest works. This narrative challenges us to consider: How might God be working through our own imperfections and daily struggles? The promise of Jesus, described as the one who 'tramples over death,' offers us hope in our darkest moments. His everlasting kingdom and peace speak to our deepest longings for stability and tranquility in a chaotic world. As we journey through Advent, let's ponder how we, like Mary, can respond to God's call with faith and openness, allowing His peace to reign in our hearts and transform our lives. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 1) Mary being chosen by God: Luke 1:28 - "And he came to her and said, 'Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!'"; 2) The angel telling Mary not to be afraid: Luke 1:30 - "And the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.'"; 3) Mary being told she will have a son named Jesus: Luke 1:31 - "And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus."; 4) Jesus being called the greatest and sitting on David's throne: Luke 1:32-33 - "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end."; 5) The theme of peace: Isaiah 9:6 - "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."; and 6) The kingdom having no end: Daniel 7:14 - "And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.". A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art. 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ. 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit's notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God's Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son. 12/8/24 & 12/11/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus. 12/14/24 & 12/15/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God's favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus 12/18/24 & 12/21/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God's Son. 12/22/24 & 12/23/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus' genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born”  - The Christ!

The Angel's Message to Mary Is God's Testament to His Unfathomable Love and Plan for Humanity's Redemption MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this profound exploration of the Annunciation, we're invited to witness the moment that changed history forever. The angel's message to Mary isn't just a historical event; it's a testament to God's unfathomable love and His plan for humanity's redemption. As we reflect on Mary's humble circumstances - her dirt-stained nails and worn knees - we're reminded that God often chooses the unexpected to accomplish His greatest works. This narrative challenges us to consider: How might God be working through our own imperfections and daily struggles? The promise of Jesus, described as the one who 'tramples over death,' offers us hope in our darkest moments. His everlasting kingdom and peace speak to our deepest longings for stability and tranquility in a chaotic world. As we journey through Advent, let's ponder how we, like Mary, can respond to God's call with faith and openness, allowing His peace to reign in our hearts and transform our lives. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 1) Mary being chosen by God: Luke 1:28 - "And he came to her and said, 'Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!'"; 2) The angel telling Mary not to be afraid: Luke 1:30 - "And the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.'"; 3) Mary being told she will have a son named Jesus: Luke 1:31 - "And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus."; 4) Jesus being called the greatest and sitting on David's throne: Luke 1:32-33 - "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end."; 5) The theme of peace: Isaiah 9:6 - "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."; and 6) The kingdom having no end: Daniel 7:14 - "And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.". A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art. 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ. 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit's notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God's Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son. 12/8/24 & 12/11/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus. 12/14/24 & 12/15/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God's favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus 12/18/24 & 12/21/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God's Son. 12/22/24 & 12/23/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus' genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born”  - The Christ!

God's Timing Is Perfect, Even When It Seems Delayed MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful Advent message, we're invited to explore the transformative story of Zechariah, an aging priest whose encounter with an angel shatters his hopelessness. This narrative from Luke's Gospel reminds us that God's timing is perfect, even when it seems delayed. As we reflect on Zechariah's initial disbelief, we're challenged to examine our own faith in the face of seemingly impossible promises. The angel's proclamation about John the Baptist - that 'none born of women' would be like him - emphasizes the extraordinary nature of God's plan. This story encourages us to remain faithful in our spiritual routines, for it's often in these moments of ordinary service that God breaks through with extraordinary revelations. As we journey through Advent, let's open our hearts to unexpected messages of hope, trusting that God can breathe new life into our weariest moments. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 1) Luke 1:5-25 - This passage tells the story of Zechariah in the temple, his encounter with the angel, and the prophecy about John the Baptist; 2) Luke 1:8-9 - Specifically mentions Zechariah being chosen by lot to enter the temple and burn incense; 3) Luke 1:11-13 - Describes the angel appearing to Zechariah and announcing that his prayer has been heard; 4) Luke 1:18-20 - Zechariah's disbelief and subsequent muteness; 5) Matthew 11:11 or Luke 7:28 - The Devotional repeatedly mentions "None born of women like him," which alludes to Jesus' words about John the Baptist: "Among those born of women there is no one greater than John."; and 6) Malachi 3:1 and 4:5-6 - These Old Testament prophecies about a messenger preparing the way for the Lord are fulfilled in John the Baptist, as mentioned in the New Testament. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art. 12/01/24 & 12/2/24 & 12/4/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ. 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit's notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God's Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son. 12/8/24 & 12/11/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus. 12/14/24 & 12/15/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God's favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus 12/18/24 & 12/21/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God's Son. 12/22/24 & 12/23/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus' genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born”  - The Christ!

God's Timing Is Perfect, Even When It Seems Delayed MESSAGE SUMMARY: In this powerful Advent message, we're invited to explore the transformative story of Zechariah, an aging priest whose encounter with an angel shatters his hopelessness. This narrative from Luke's Gospel reminds us that God's timing is perfect, even when it seems delayed. As we reflect on Zechariah's initial disbelief, we're challenged to examine our own faith in the face of seemingly impossible promises. The angel's proclamation about John the Baptist - that 'none born of women' would be like him - emphasizes the extraordinary nature of God's plan. This story encourages us to remain faithful in our spiritual routines, for it's often in these moments of ordinary service that God breaks through with extraordinary revelations. As we journey through Advent, let's open our hearts to unexpected messages of hope, trusting that God can breathe new life into our weariest moments. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 1) Luke 1:5-25 - This passage tells the story of Zechariah in the temple, his encounter with the angel, and the prophecy about John the Baptist; 2) Luke 1:8-9 - Specifically mentions Zechariah being chosen by lot to enter the temple and burn incense; 3) Luke 1:11-13 - Describes the angel appearing to Zechariah and announcing that his prayer has been heard; 4) Luke 1:18-20 - Zechariah's disbelief and subsequent muteness; 5) Matthew 11:11 or Luke 7:28 - The Devotional repeatedly mentions "None born of women like him," which alludes to Jesus' words about John the Baptist: "Among those born of women there is no one greater than John."; and 6) Malachi 3:1 and 4:5-6 - These Old Testament prophecies about a messenger preparing the way for the Lord are fulfilled in John the Baptist, as mentioned in the New Testament. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art. 12/01/24 & 12/2/24 & 12/4/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ. 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit's notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God's Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son. 12/8/24 & 12/11/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus. 12/14/24 & 12/15/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God's favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus 12/18/24 & 12/21/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God's Son. 12/22/24 & 12/23/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus' genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born”  - The Christ!

Since Creation, Jesus Has Come; and He Will Come Again! MESSAGE SUMMARY: As we enter the Advent season, we're invited to embark on a profound spiritual journey that connects us to the very foundations of our faith. This series, 'Firstborn,' takes us back to the dawn of creation, reminding us of God's masterful handiwork and His ultimate plan for humanity. We're challenged to confront the reality of human sinfulness and our deep need for a Savior. This narrative arc from creation to redemption beautifully sets the stage for the coming of Christ, both in His first advent as a humble baby and His promised return as the triumphant judge. As we reflect on these themes, we're called to examine our own lives and prepare our hearts for Christ's coming. How can we, in this season, align ourselves more closely with God's grand design for humanity?  TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 1) Jesus as the Light of Life: John 1:4-5, John 8:12; 2) Creation and God's role as Creator: Genesis 1:1-31 (entire chapter on creation), Colossians 1:16; 3) Human sinfulness and need for a Savior: Romans 3:23, Romans 5:12; 4) Advent and the coming of Christ: Isaiah 9:6-7, Luke 2:1-20; 5) Zacharias and Elizabeth: Luke 1:5-25; 6) Mary and Joseph: Matthew 1:18-25, Luke 1:26-38; 7) Second Coming of Christ: Matthew 24:30-31, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art. 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ. 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit's notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God's Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son. 12/8/24 & 12/11/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus. 12/14/24 & 12/15/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God's favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus 12/18/24 & 12/21/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God's Son. 12/22/24 & 12/23/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus' genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born”  - The Christ!

Since Creation, Jesus Has Come; and He Will Come Again! MESSAGE SUMMARY: As we enter the Advent season, we're invited to embark on a profound spiritual journey that connects us to the very foundations of our faith. This series, 'Firstborn,' takes us back to the dawn of creation, reminding us of God's masterful handiwork and His ultimate plan for humanity. We're challenged to confront the reality of human sinfulness and our deep need for a Savior. This narrative arc from creation to redemption beautifully sets the stage for the coming of Christ, both in His first advent as a humble baby and His promised return as the triumphant judge. As we reflect on these themes, we're called to examine our own lives and prepare our hearts for Christ's coming. How can we, in this season, align ourselves more closely with God's grand design for humanity?  TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, God is working His will in my life. (Philippians 2:13). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 1) Jesus as the Light of Life: John 1:4-5, John 8:12; 2) Creation and God's role as Creator: Genesis 1:1-31 (entire chapter on creation), Colossians 1:16; 3) Human sinfulness and need for a Savior: Romans 3:23, Romans 5:12; 4) Advent and the coming of Christ: Isaiah 9:6-7, Luke 2:1-20; 5) Zacharias and Elizabeth: Luke 1:5-25; 6) Mary and Joseph: Matthew 1:18-25, Luke 1:26-38; 7) Second Coming of Christ: Matthew 24:30-31, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: https://awtlser.podbean.com/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO: www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL AWFTL Advent Devotional Schedule A Word From The Lord ministry, with Dr. Foley Beach, has partnered with Poor Bishop Hooper to walk us through the season of Advent using their original music and animated art. 12/01/24 & 12/2/24: In this first episode "Foreword", we begin with God's Creation of the World. However, sin comes into the world necessitating the need for "A Means of Grace and the Hope for Glory", the Christ. 12/4/24 & 12/7/24: In this episode “Hope”, the Holy Spirit's notifies the aging but unbelieving Priest, Zechariah, that his barren wife Elizebeth will give birth to John the Baptizer, who will prepare the way for God's Grace for undeserved Salvation, through birth of His Son. 12/8/24 & 12/11/24: In this episode “Peace”, the Virgin Mary is notified by an Angel that God, through the Holy Spirit, will bless her with the birth of The Christ, the promised Mesiah; and He will be named Jesus. 12/14/24 & 12/15/24: In this episode “Joy”, Elizabeth is visited by her cousin, Mary as they share both the joy of their unanticipated pregnancies and the assume blessing of God's favor for them and the World, the Incarnate Jesus 12/18/24 & 12/21/24: The episode, “Love”, depicts the struggles that Joseph is facing from both his love and duty to an, as yet, unmarried but pregnant Mary. Also, Joseph is coming to grips with burden and responsibility of his early-life fatherhood for Jesus, who is Father God, in a human presence, as God's Son. 12/22/24 & 12/23/24: The final episode brings it all together in Jesus' genealogy from Adam to The Christ – proving that Advent and Christmas are a great deal more than what the commercialization of Christmas often implies. We end our Advent journey with “The First Born”  - The Christ!

Turkeys and Eagles – Part 6: We Don't Need to Be Wimpy Christians MESSAGE SUMMARY:  Series Overview: This Series has been looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians to point out “Turkeyisms” – things by which have duped us into believing or behaving in ways which aren't what Christianity is all about. This Series has pointed out some changes in our thinking needed so that we can be like “Eagles” -- o be the people that God wants and intended for us to be. This Sermon will focus on Ephesians 6. Sermon: Turkey Thinking: “There is no real devil; the devil is just a concept to explain evil.” (The devil's best trick is to get us to believe there is no devil.); Eagle Thinking: “The devil and his cohorts never sleep.”  Ephesians 6:10 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.”. How does one know if they are being tempted by the enemy? We know we are being tempted by the enemy when we are influenced to do something against Jesus -- the enemy wants to make us a weak Christian. However, we can't blame the temptations of our flesh on the devil. We need to always be clothed in the full armor of God to be full-time soldiers of Jesus against the devil. Turkey Thinking: “There is no spiritual warfare; Christianity is love, joy, and peace. Christianity is not about war.”; Eagle Thinking: “If I am serving the Lord, then I am always engaged in a spiritual battle.”. In this battle, we are not battling our fellow humans. One of the enemy's best strategies is to get us fighting each other, especially in the church.  The devil wants us to divide and conquer. We must put on the full armor of God so that we can stand firm against the devil. The “full armor” means we are to both seek and speak God's truth while establishing a relationship with God. We are to live a righteous life in the full awareness that God has forgiven us. In standing firm and with our relationship with God, we are to share the Gospel. We are to “take up the shield of faith” by trusting in God in our warfare with the devil. The evil one wants us to doubt our Salvation from God's Grace and our faith that ensure eternal life with Jesus. Finally, we are to “take up the sword of the Spirit” – the Word of God. In Ephesians 6, the sword is the only element, of God's full armor, that is for both offense as well as defense. Paul then tells us “to pray in the Holy Spirit” – praying while fully focused on the Lord; prayer is the most powerful weapon we have in our fight against the devil. God wants us to be strong in Him” and not wimpy Christians in our warfare with the evil one.     TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Luke 11:13 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Ephesians 6:10-20; Matthew 13:19-21; 1 Peter 5:8; Ephesians 4:12. SCRIPTURE REFERENCE SEARCH: www.AWFTL.org/bible-search/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “To Be a Jesus Follower, You Must First Enter the Only Door to God's Kingdom and that Door is Jesus – the Door to Eternal Life”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

America Will Not Survive as a Nation Unless the People of God Stand Up and Plead for Our Survival - Pray for America MESSAGE SUMMARY: As Americans, we are a privileged people, all of us, to live in a country, relative to the rest of the world, that is privileged. The key element of this privilege” is freedom. However, something has been changing -- we are seeing many of the freedoms and blessings of America changing into curses. For example, our obsession with materialism has put most Americans into the bondage of debt; and our drive to feel happy has led many into the addiction of drugs and alcohol. We must all realize that our freedoms and liberties must be used for Godly purposes, or we will lose our freedoms. As we are told in Psalms 33:12: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!". Today, through our actions, laws, and the cultural revisions of our founding Christian principles, we have told God that we do not want Him around. While God is love, He is, also, justice. Therefore, God has obliged us; and He has done what He said He would do -- God is withdrawing His presence and His protection and holding back His divine wisdom, which has guided us for so many years. God is leaving us to reap the consequences of our focus away from Him and to lives without Him. The signers of the Declaration of Independence began a revolution which started the United States of America. The American Revolution was rooted in the belief that all people, even the King and governmental leaders, are subject to the rule of God and not above the law; and everyone is endowed by God, our Creator, with certain inalienable rights. Many people have tried to deny that America's founders created a country which wove together the idea of self-governance with Christian principles. With God's Ten Commandments as the cornerstone of our Democracy, most Americans and those others living in our country cannot name even three of the Ten Commandments. If a Christian religious context was assumed, by the founders of America and the government based on the Constitution, it seems we have a significant problem in our culture today. Now, it appears, America's focus is to get rid of all things relating America to Christianity, the Bible, or anything that smacks of God – and, pretty much, these efforts to remove God's influence from the public square appear to be succeeding. Today, we must all Pray for America – to carve out a time each day when we, each and every one of us, prays for America. In our prayers, we must confess our sins as individuals and collectively as a country. Additionally, we must pray for our President, Members of Congress, the Supreme Court, and our other leaders and those others in authority. Our Prayers for America should pray for the moral issues of today; blessings and protection for our leaders that are walking the walk of their Christian faith; and for a Spiritual Revival and Awakening in America. We will not survive as a nation unless the people of God stand up before God and plead for the survival of America. Spiritual laws are like the laws of physics – they are absolute unless another force intervenes. Therefore, as America increases its violation of God's laws at an increasing rate, we will face both the implicit and explicit consequences of violating God's laws unless He intervenes – we must pray for God's intervention! Paul instructs us for our prayers in 1 Timothy 2:1-6: “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.". We must make Praying for America and, personally, for its leaders a priority in our lives. If we are praying, then God will show us what to do. Only the intervention of God will change the downward direction of America, and we must ask through our prayers. God has intervened before, and He will do it again. America was built on prayer, as we learn from the writings of Benjamin Franklin, and upon the Christian faith of our founders. Will You pray for America and take responsibility for the survival America and its blessings and freedoms for our country today and for our children and grandchildren in the future?   TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. (John 1:12f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Psalms 33:12; 1 Timothy 2:1-6; James 1:4; Proverbs 3:5-6. WEBSITE LINK:  www.AWordFromTheLord.org/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO – “Cultural Turmoil and Health Threats Bring Fear, But Your Fear Is Overcome By Following God's Call and Seeking His Will”:  www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

On this election day, Will You "Stand in the Gap" for Our Country to Participate in and Lead a Great Awakening and Spiritual Renewal in America? MESSAGE SUMMARY: On July 4, 1776, the signers of the Declaration of Independence began a revolution which started the United States of America. The Revolution was rooted in the belief that all people, even the King and governmental leaders, are subject to the rule of God and not above the law and; and everyone is endowed by God, our Creator, with certain inalienable rights. Many people have tried to deny that America's founders created a country which wove together the idea of self-governance with Christian principles. Now, it appears, the focus is to get rid of things relating America to Christianity, the Bible, or anything that smacks of God – and, pretty much these efforts to remove God's influence from the public square, appear to be succeeding. We need to hear, in Today's sermon, what our founders said regarding America's Christian base. However, not long after the enactment of the Constitution in the late 1700s, morality and church attendance declined drastically into a Spiritual Depression. The answer became the nationwide implementation of "Concerts of Prayer", across all Christian denominations, that led to an American Spiritual Awakening. Today, through our actions, laws, and cultural revisions of our founding Christian principles, we have told God that we don't want Him around. Therefore, God has obliged us; and He has done what He said He would do -- God is withdrawing His presence and His protection and holding back His divine wisdom, which has guided us for so many years. God is leaving us to reap the consequences of our focus away from Him and without Him. The Lord Said through Ezekiel: "I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none.". We must have a Spiritual Awakening, in our country, beginning today!  Will You "Stand in the Gap"? TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Ezekiel 22:30; Daniel 4:28-32; Matthew 22:19-21; Isaiah 29:8-21; (Click the Bible References, in blue, below to read the full Bible text for these Scripture References.). A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Is Your Faith Yours, or Is Your Faith a Faith Derivative of the Faith of Others?”: at our website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

America Will Not Survive as a Nation Unless the People of God Stand Up and Plead for Our Survival - Pray for America MESSAGE SUMMARY: As Americans, we are a privileged people, all of us, to live in a country, relative to the rest of the world, that is privileged. The key element of this privilege” is freedom. However, something has been changing -- we are seeing many of the freedoms and blessings of America changing into curses. For example, our obsession with materialism has put most Americans into the bondage of debt; and our drive to feel happy has led many into the addiction of drugs and alcohol. We must all realize that our freedoms and liberties must be used for Godly purposes, or we will lose our freedoms. As we are told in Psalms 33:12: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!". Today, through our actions, laws, and the cultural revisions of our founding Christian principles, we have told God that we do not want Him around. While God is love, He is, also, justice. Therefore, God has obliged us; and He has done what He said He would do -- God is withdrawing His presence and His protection and holding back His divine wisdom, which has guided us for so many years. God is leaving us to reap the consequences of our focus away from Him and to lives without Him. The signers of the Declaration of Independence began a revolution which started the United States of America. The American Revolution was rooted in the belief that all people, even the King and governmental leaders, are subject to the rule of God and not above the law; and everyone is endowed by God, our Creator, with certain inalienable rights. Many people have tried to deny that America's founders created a country which wove together the idea of self-governance with Christian principles. With God's Ten Commandments as the cornerstone of our Democracy, most Americans and those others living in our country cannot name even three of the Ten Commandments. If a Christian religious context was assumed, by the founders of America and the government based on the Constitution, it seems we have a significant problem in our culture today. Now, it appears, America's focus is to get rid of all things relating America to Christianity, the Bible, or anything that smacks of God – and, pretty much, these efforts to remove God's influence from the public square appear to be succeeding. Today, we must all Pray for America – to carve out a time each day when we, each and every one of us, prays for America. In our prayers, we must confess our sins as individuals and collectively as a country. Additionally, we must pray for our President, Members of Congress, the Supreme Court, and our other leaders and those others in authority. Our Prayers for America should pray for the moral issues of today; blessings and protection for our leaders that are walking the walk of their Christian faith; and for a Spiritual Revival and Awakening in America. We will not survive as a nation unless the people of God stand up before God and plead for the survival of America. Spiritual laws are like the laws of physics – they are absolute unless another force intervenes. Therefore, as America increases its violation of God's laws at an increasing rate, we will face both the implicit and explicit consequences of violating God's laws unless He intervenes – we must pray for God's intervention! Paul instructs us for our prayers in 1 Timothy 2:1-6: “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.". We must make Praying for America and, personally, for its leaders a priority in our lives. If we are praying, then God will show us what to do. Only the intervention of God will change the downward direction of America, and we must ask through our prayers. God has intervened before, and He will do it again. America was built on prayer, as we learn from the writings of Benjamin Franklin, and upon the Christian faith of our founders. Will You pray for America and take responsibility for the survival America and its blessings and freedoms for our country today and for our children and grandchildren in the future?   TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. (John 1:12f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Psalms 33:12; 1 Timothy 2:1-6; James 1:4; Proverbs 3:5-6. WEBSITE LINK:  www.AWordFromTheLord.org/ WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S SERMON VIDEO – “Cultural Turmoil and Health Threats Bring Fear, But Your Fear Is Overcome By Following God's Call and Seeking His Will”:  www.AWFTL.org/watch DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

As our national election day approaches, Will You "Stand in the Gap" for Our Country to Participate in and Lead a Great Awakening and Spiritual Renewal in America? MESSAGE SUMMARY: On July 4, 1776, the signers of the Declaration of Independence began a revolution which started the United States of America. The Revolution was rooted in the belief that all people, even the King and governmental leaders, are subject to the rule of God and not above the law and; and everyone is endowed by God, our Creator, with certain inalienable rights. Many people have tried to deny that America's founders created a country which wove together the idea of self-governance with Christian principles. Now, it appears, the focus is to get rid of things relating America to Christianity, the Bible, or anything that smacks of God – and, pretty much these efforts to remove God's influence from the public square, appear to be succeeding. We need to hear, in Today's sermon, what our founders said regarding America's Christian base. However, not long after the enactment of the Constitution in the late 1700s, morality and church attendance declined drastically into a Spiritual Depression. The answer became the nationwide implementation of "Concerts of Prayer", across all Christian denominations, that led to an American Spiritual Awakening. Today, through our actions, laws, and cultural revisions of our founding Christian principles, we have told God that we don't want Him around. Therefore, God has obliged us; and He has done what He said He would do -- God is withdrawing His presence and His protection and holding back His divine wisdom, which has guided us for so many years. God is leaving us to reap the consequences of our focus away from Him and without Him. The Lord Said through Ezekiel: "I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none.". We must have a Spiritual Awakening, in our country, beginning today!  Will You "Stand in the Gap"? TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Ezekiel 22:30; Daniel 4:28-32; Matthew 22:19-21; Isaiah 29:8-21; (Click the Bible References, in blue, below to read the full Bible text for these Scripture References.). A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Is Your Faith Yours, or Is Your Faith a Faith Derivative of the Faith of Others?”: at our website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB