POPULARITY
Categories
Have you ever caught yourself dismissing the Jewish lessons you learned as a child? Those Uncle Moishe songs and "simple" Torah stories might contain more wisdom than we give them credit for.The mountains competed for God's attention. Mount Tabor and Mount Carmel—majestic, impressive peaks—proudly proclaimed their worthiness to host the giving of the Torah. They boasted of their grandeur and demanded recognition. Yet God chose neither. Instead, the humble, unassuming Mount Sinai—which made no claims about its importance—was selected for the most momentous event in Jewish history. This wasn't coincidence but divine instruction: true honor finds those who don't chase it.The Medrash Rabbah teaches us that humility isn't just a nice character trait—it's so essential that God designed the very staging of the Torah revelation to demonstrate it. Similarly, when God says "Let us make man" in Genesis, the Creator of the universe models the importance of consulting with those perceived as lesser, even at the risk of the text being misinterpreted. These seemingly simple stories contain profound wisdom about how we should move through the world—listening more than speaking, valuing others' perspectives, and recognizing our own limitations.As adults, we have the capacity to engage with these teachings at a deeper level than we could as children. Instead of dismissing them as stories we've outgrown, what if we approached them with fresh eyes? The melodies may have introduced us to these concepts, but our mature minds can now appreciate their profound implications for our relationships and spiritual development. Take a moment today to reconsider a Jewish teaching from your childhood—its wisdom might be exactly what you need most right now.Support the showJoin The Motivation Congregation WhatsApp community for daily motivational Torah content!Elevate your impact by becoming a TMC Emerald Donor! Your much-needed backing is crucial for our mission of disseminating the wisdom of the Torah. Join today for just $18.00 per month. (Use your maaser money!) https://buy.stripe.com/00g8xl5IT8dFcKc5ky---------------- SUBSCRIBE to The Weekly Parsha for an insightful weekly talk on the week's Parsha. Listen on Spotify or 24six! Access all Torah talks and listen to featured episodes on our website, themotivationcongregation.org ----------------Questions or Comments? Please email me @ michaelbrooke97@gmail.com
The Christian's hope does not rest in his own strength or steadfastness, but in the mighty, preserving power of God. Jude 24-25, "To Him who is able to keep you from falling, and to present you before His glorious presence without fault and with great joy--to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen." Jude closes his epistle with this soaring doxology, lifting our gaze to the triumphant and unshakable glory of our great God and Savior, "To Him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before His glorious presence without fault and with great joy!" What comfort is found in those words! Left to ourselves, we would surely fall. Our flesh is weak, the world is alluring, and the devil is deceitful. If we had to keep ourselves, we would be like the spider's web--swept away by the first rough wind of trial or temptation. Yet God assuredly upholds His people, because He is faithful. The believer is kept, not barely, but perfectly. God does not merely preserve us in a state of struggle and guilt, limping into Heaven bruised and soiled. No, He will present us "without fault"--blameless in His sight, clothed in the righteousness of Jesus, and cleansed from every stain. And this will be done "with great joy". Not only our joy, but His! He who began a good work in us, will carry it on to completion. The Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep, promises that He will give them eternal life, and that none of them shall ever perish. Jude reminds us that all glory, majesty, power, and authority belong to God--not only in eternity past, not only in the present age,
Beyond Trouble #RTTBROS #Nightlight Beyond Today's Troubles"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." - Jeremiah 29:11"God's plans for your life far exceed the circumstances of your day."When we find ourselves overwhelmed by the weight of today's challenges, it's easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. The bills on your kitchen table, the tension in your relationships, the uncertainty at work, or the health concerns that keep you awake at night can feel all-consuming. In these moments, our vision becomes narrow, focused only on what we can see right in front of us.But God's perspective is infinitely different from ours. While we see today's struggles, He sees the masterpiece He's creating through every season of our lives. The very circumstances that feel like obstacles may actually be the tools He's using to shape us, strengthen us, and prepare us for the good works He has planned.Consider Joseph, whose brothers sold him into slavery. In that moment, his circumstances seemed hopeless. Yet God was orchestrating events that would eventually place Joseph in a position to save nations from famine. What appeared to be a devastating setback was actually a divine setup.The same God who worked through Joseph's difficulties is working through yours. Your current chapter is not your final story. The financial pressure you're facing doesn't define your future provision. The broken relationship doesn't determine your capacity for love. The closed door doesn't mean there isn't a better one waiting to open.God's plans for you are not merely about getting you through today, though He will. They're about transforming you into who He created you to be and positioning you for purposes you haven't even imagined yet. His thoughts toward you are thoughts of peace, hope, and a future filled with meaning.Today, when the circumstances feel heavy, remember that they are temporary, but God's plans for you are eternal. Look beyond what you can see with your eyes and trust what He has promised with His word. Your best days are not behind you – they're ahead of you, woven into the perfect plan of a God who loves you more than you can comprehend.Prayer: Heavenly Father, when I can only see today's troubles, help me to trust in Your eternal perspective. Remind me that You are working all things together for my good and Your glory. Give me faith to believe that Your plans for my life far exceed anything I can see or imagine today. In Jesus' name, Amen.Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.https://linktr.ee/rttbros
Isaiah lived during one of the saddest times in the history of God's people. He saw God's judgment unleashed on his cousins to the north - the Northern Kingdom of Israel for their stubborn and consistent unbelief. God sent the powerful nation of Assyria to conquer their land and carry off their people. Isaiah's message to people of Jerusalem and Judah was that the same fate was coming their way, too. They had committed many of the same sins and had angered God just the same. Isaiah called the people to repentance and warned them that God would come down in justice against them as well. How sad it must have been for Isaiah to record his God given prediction of the future fall of his beloved city, Jerusalem.Yet God spoke hope to his people as well - to his people in Isaiah's day and ours. Isaiah proclaimed the mercy and compassion, the forgiveness and love that God would show to his people in bringing back the remnant from captivity and to all believers in the sending of the Messiah to be our Savior from sin. Indeed, the meaning of Isaiah's name is true, the LORD is our salvation. We are hoping that you will join us in reading one chapter of the book of Isaiah each weekday and then in listening in on our discussion of each chapter. If you have any questions about this series or our Most Certainly True Podcast, please reach out to Pastor Hackmann at bhackmann@gracedowntown.org. If you'd like to learn more about Grace Lutheran Church, check out our website www.gracedowntown.org.
LESSON 165Let Not My Mind Deny The Thought Of God.What makes this world seem real except your own denial of the truth that lies beyond? What but your thoughts of misery and death obscure the perfect happiness and the eternal life your Father wills for you? And what could hide what cannot be concealed except illusion? What could keep from you what you already have except your choice to see it not, denying it is there?The Thought of God created you. It left you not, nor have you ever been apart from it an instant. It belongs to you. By it you live. It is your Source of life, holding you one with it, and everything is one with you because it left you not. The Thought of God protects you, cares for you, makes soft your resting place and smooth your way, lighting your mind with happiness and love. Eternity and everlasting life shine in your mind, because the Thought of God has left you not, and still abides with you.Who would deny his safety and his peace, his joy, his healing and his peace of mind, his quiet rest, his calm awakening, if he but recognized where they abide? Would he not instantly prepare to go where they are found, abandoning all else as worthless in comparison with them? And having found them, would he not make sure they stay with him, and he remain with them?Deny not Heaven. It is yours today, but for the asking. Nor need you perceive how great the gift, how changed your mind will be before it comes to you. Ask to receive, and it is given you. Conviction lies within it. Till you welcome it as yours, uncertainty remains. Yet God is fair. Sureness is not required to receive what only your acceptance can bestow.Ask with desire. You need not be sure that you request the only thing you want. But when you have received, you will be sure you have the treasure you have always sought. What would you then exchange for it? What would induce you now to let it fade away from your ecstatic vision? For this sight proves that you have exchanged your blindness for the seeing eyes of Christ; your mind has come to lay aside denial, and accept the Thought of God as your inheritance.Now is all doubting past, the journey's end made certain, and salvation given you. Now is Christ's power in your mind, to heal as you were healed. For now you are among the saviors of the world. Your destiny lies there and nowhere else. Would God consent to let His Son remain forever starved by his denial of the nourishment he needs to live? Abundance dwells in him, and deprivation cannot cut him off from God's sustaining Love and from his home.Practice today in hope. For hope indeed is justified. Your doubts are meaningless, for God is certain. And the Thought of Him is never absent. Sureness must abide within you who are host to Him. This course removes all doubts which you have interposed between Him and your certainty of Him.We count on God, and not upon ourselves, to give us certainty. And in His Name we practice as His Word directs we do. His sureness lies beyond our every doubt. His Love remains beyond our every fear. The Thought of Him is still beyond all dreams and in our minds, according to His Will.- Jesus Christ in ACIM
Isaiah lived during one of the saddest times in the history of God's people. He saw God's judgment unleashed on his cousins to the north - the Northern Kingdom of Israel for their stubborn and consistent unbelief. God sent the powerful nation of Assyria to conquer their land and carry off their people. Isaiah's message to people of Jerusalem and Judah was that the same fate was coming their way, too. They had committed many of the same sins and had angered God just the same. Isaiah called the people to repentance and warned them that God would come down in justice against them as well. How sad it must have been for Isaiah to record his God given prediction of the future fall of his beloved city, Jerusalem.Yet God spoke hope to his people as well - to his people in Isaiah's day and ours. Isaiah proclaimed the mercy and compassion, the forgiveness and love that God would show to his people in bringing back the remnant from captivity and to all believers in the sending of the Messiah to be our Savior from sin. Indeed, the meaning of Isaiah's name is true, the LORD is our salvation. We are hoping that you will join us in reading one chapter of the book of Isaiah each weekday and then in listening in on our discussion of each chapter. If you have any questions about this series or our Most Certainly True Podcast, please reach out to Pastor Hackmann at bhackmann@gracedowntown.org. If you'd like to learn more about Grace Lutheran Church, check out our website www.gracedowntown.org.
Isaiah lived during one of the saddest times in the history of God's people. He saw God's judgment unleashed on his cousins to the north - the Northern Kingdom of Israel for their stubborn and consistent unbelief. God sent the powerful nation of Assyria to conquer their land and carry off their people. Isaiah's message to people of Jerusalem and Judah was that the same fate was coming their way, too. They had committed many of the same sins and had angered God just the same. Isaiah called the people to repentance and warned them that God would come down in justice against them as well. How sad it must have been for Isaiah to record his God given prediction of the future fall of his beloved city, Jerusalem.Yet God spoke hope to his people as well - to his people in Isaiah's day and ours. Isaiah proclaimed the mercy and compassion, the forgiveness and love that God would show to his people in bringing back the remnant from captivity and to all believers in the sending of the Messiah to be our Savior from sin. Indeed, the meaning of Isaiah's name is true, the LORD is our salvation. We are hoping that you will join us in reading one chapter of the book of Isaiah each weekday and then in listening in on our discussion of each chapter. If you have any questions about this series or our Most Certainly True Podcast, please reach out to Pastor Hackmann at bhackmann@gracedowntown.org. If you'd like to learn more about Grace Lutheran Church, check out our website www.gracedowntown.org.
Isaiah lived during one of the saddest times in the history of God's people. He saw God's judgment unleashed on his cousins to the north - the Northern Kingdom of Israel for their stubborn and consistent unbelief. God sent the powerful nation of Assyria to conquer their land and carry off their people. Isaiah's message to people of Jerusalem and Judah was that the same fate was coming their way, too. They had committed many of the same sins and had angered God just the same. Isaiah called the people to repentance and warned them that God would come down in justice against them as well. How sad it must have been for Isaiah to record his God given prediction of the future fall of his beloved city, Jerusalem.Yet God spoke hope to his people as well - to his people in Isaiah's day and ours. Isaiah proclaimed the mercy and compassion, the forgiveness and love that God would show to his people in bringing back the remnant from captivity and to all believers in the sending of the Messiah to be our Savior from sin. Indeed, the meaning of Isaiah's name is true, the LORD is our salvation. We are hoping that you will join us in reading one chapter of the book of Isaiah each weekday and then in listening in on our discussion of each chapter. If you have any questions about this series or our Most Certainly True Podcast, please reach out to Pastor Hackmann at bhackmann@gracedowntown.org. If you'd like to learn more about Grace Lutheran Church, check out our website www.gracedowntown.org.
Isaiah lived during one of the saddest times in the history of God's people. He saw God's judgment unleashed on his cousins to the north - the Northern Kingdom of Israel for their stubborn and consistent unbelief. God sent the powerful nation of Assyria to conquer their land and carry off their people. Isaiah's message to people of Jerusalem and Judah was that the same fate was coming their way, too. They had committed many of the same sins and had angered God just the same. Isaiah called the people to repentance and warned them that God would come down in justice against them as well. How sad it must have been for Isaiah to record his God given prediction of the future fall of his beloved city, Jerusalem.Yet God spoke hope to his people as well - to his people in Isaiah's day and ours. Isaiah proclaimed the mercy and compassion, the forgiveness and love that God would show to his people in bringing back the remnant from captivity and to all believers in the sending of the Messiah to be our Savior from sin. Indeed, the meaning of Isaiah's name is true, the LORD is our salvation. We are hoping that you will join us in reading one chapter of the book of Isaiah each weekday and then in listening in on our discussion of each chapter. If you have any questions about this series or our Most Certainly True Podcast, please reach out to Pastor Hackmann at bhackmann@gracedowntown.org. If you'd like to learn more about Grace Lutheran Church, check out our website www.gracedowntown.org.
Isaiah lived during one of the saddest times in the history of God's people. He saw God's judgment unleashed on his cousins to the north - the Northern Kingdom of Israel for their stubborn and consistent unbelief. God sent the powerful nation of Assyria to conquer their land and carry off their people. Isaiah's message to people of Jerusalem and Judah was that the same fate was coming their way, too. They had committed many of the same sins and had angered God just the same. Isaiah called the people to repentance and warned them that God would come down in justice against them as well. How sad it must have been for Isaiah to record his God given prediction of the future fall of his beloved city, Jerusalem.Yet God spoke hope to his people as well - to his people in Isaiah's day and ours. Isaiah proclaimed the mercy and compassion, the forgiveness and love that God would show to his people in bringing back the remnant from captivity and to all believers in the sending of the Messiah to be our Savior from sin. Indeed, the meaning of Isaiah's name is true, the LORD is our salvation. We are hoping that you will join us in reading one chapter of the book of Isaiah each weekday and then in listening in on our discussion of each chapter. If you have any questions about this series or our Most Certainly True Podcast, please reach out to Pastor Hackmann at bhackmann@gracedowntown.org. If you'd like to learn more about Grace Lutheran Church, check out our website www.gracedowntown.org.
Isaiah lived during one of the saddest times in the history of God's people. He saw God's judgment unleashed on his cousins to the north - the Northern Kingdom of Israel for their stubborn and consistent unbelief. God sent the powerful nation of Assyria to conquer their land and carry off their people. Isaiah's message to people of Jerusalem and Judah was that the same fate was coming their way, too. They had committed many of the same sins and had angered God just the same. Isaiah called the people to repentance and warned them that God would come down in justice against them as well. How sad it must have been for Isaiah to record his God given prediction of the future fall of his beloved city, Jerusalem.Yet God spoke hope to his people as well - to his people in Isaiah's day and ours. Isaiah proclaimed the mercy and compassion, the forgiveness and love that God would show to his people in bringing back the remnant from captivity and to all believers in the sending of the Messiah to be our Savior from sin. Indeed, the meaning of Isaiah's name is true, the LORD is our salvation. We are hoping that you will join us in reading one chapter of the book of Isaiah each weekday and then in listening in on our discussion of each chapter. If you have any questions about this series or our Most Certainly True Podcast, please reach out to Pastor Hackmann at bhackmann@gracedowntown.org. If you'd like to learn more about Grace Lutheran Church, check out our website www.gracedowntown.org.
ACTS of the Holy Spirit - A Study on the Book of Acts - Lesson 4Acts 4:23-5:42. Satan's attacks came from without and from within. First through the intimidation of the religious leaders and then through the hypocritical and deceptive behavior of two people who claimed to follow Christ. Yet God protected the church through it all!To learn more about Michele and to support this international ministry, please visit https://intheword.com
This year I'm celebrating 75 years in ministry. But I am not stopping. I don't believe in retiring, but ‘refiring' – I am always seeking a new Fire from God. We all need a renewed fire, but an ‘old-time' revival, we need a new power, but the ‘real' God. Will you be the one whom He will call again, through the fire of the Holy Spirit? Yet God promised in His Word, that He would pour out His Spirit on all flesh (Joel 2:28; Acts 2:17) – not just the light showers of the first Pentecost, but the heavy rain that brings in the last abundant harvest of souls (Joel 2:23-24) before the ‘great and terrible day of the Lord shall come' (Joel 2:31; Acts 2:20).
(Matthew 11:1-6) We all have our disappointments and questions when things do not turn out as we hoped. Yet God's Word reveals in the response of John the Baptist the way to finish well. You cannot choose your circumstances but you must choose your reponse. (09135250604) Keep Studying Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God.
Knowing that each of us as sinners, deserve eternal damnation--anything better than Hell is sheer mercy! This solemn truth must settle deeply into the heart of every redeemed sinner. For if we truly understood the infinite guilt of our sin, and the unspeakable holiness of God--then we would count even the bitterest affliction as sweet, compared to what we justly deserve. Every breath that is not drawn in Hell, is grace. Every hour outside of eternal torment, is mercy. And every drop of suffering in this life, though painful, is far lighter than the cup of divine wrath which Jesus drained for us on the cross! If we were to lie in pain for fifty years, unable to find even a moment's relief--yet had the Lord pardoned our sins and made us His redeemed people--would we not still be infinitely more blessed than we deserve? Yet God has not only spared us from Hell, but He has given us His Son, adopted us into His family, and prepared for us an eternal inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade. Therefore, let us never complain under God's chastening rod, nor grow bitter in the furnace of affliction. For these light and momentary troubles are not punishments, but purifying fires. They come from a Father's hand--not to destroy us, but to refine us into the image of His beloved Son. Therefore, as sinners deserving divine wrath, we are bound to humbly submit to the chastenings of the Lord. Let us confess that we are sinners, and that every sorrow we endure is mingled with mercy. Let us accept His chastisements with reverence--acknowledging that our worst days on earth, are still infinitely better than the Hell we've been rescued from. "Blessed is the man who perseveres
(Matthew 11:1-6) The first witness became the first martyr. We all have our disappointments and questions when things do not turn out as we hoped. Yet God's Word reveals in the response of John the Baptist the way to finish well. You cannot choose your circumstances but you must choose your reponse. (09134250603) Keep Studying Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God.
“What do people really get for all their hard work? I have seen the burden God has placed on us all. Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end.” Ecclesiastes 3:9-11Ecclesiastes is one of my favorite books of the Bible. I might be weird in this, I don't know many other people who would say Ecclesiastes is their favorite. To me, it's one of the most human books in the whole Bible. Not only does it have some of my favorite verses, but it's such a relatable look at one man's struggles. Ecclesiastes is another entry in the Wisdom Literature of the Bible, along with Job, Psalms and Proverbs and, even though it may not seem like wisdom literature at first glance, it becomes clear why the more you spend time in it.To help us navigate the book of Ecclesiastes is Dr. Richard Belcher. Dick is the John and Frances Gwin Professor of Old Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary and author of the Mentor Commentary on Ecclesiastes. Doable Discipleship is a Saddleback Church podcast produced and hosted by Jason Wieland. It premiered in 2017 and now offers more than 400 episodes. Episodes release every Tuesday on your favorite podcast app and on the Saddleback Church YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/saddleback).Resources Related to This Episode:https://www.amazon.com/Ecclesiastes-Commentary-Richard-Belcher-Jr/dp/1527100413Subscribe to the Doable Discipleship podcast at Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/doable-discipleship/id1240966935) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/1Zc9nuwQZOLadbFCZCmZ1V)Related Doable Discipleship Episodes: Navigating the Bible: Proverbs - https://youtu.be/DytRT5AsZg8Navigating the Bible: Psalms - https://youtu.be/oZeesooAYUINavigating the Bible: Job - https://youtu.be/14jaf2T1eCQNavigating the Bible: Esther - https://youtu.be/7RZ7ATWQZucNavigating the Bible: Nehemiah - https://youtu.be/Gok4WDgwn5INavigating the Bible: Ezra - https://youtu.be/aBC0nEjYeyoNavigating the Bible: 2 Chronicles - https://youtu.be/OG3rHTgMgEINavigating the Bible: 1 Chronicles - https://youtu.be/lQ_Qc4zbfgANavigating the Bible: 2 Kings - https://youtu.be/04q9gDhBKTkNavigating the Bible: 1 Kings - https://youtu.be/aS-KoeQXl2kNavigating the Bible: 2 Samuel - https://youtu.be/ZbpafGgOW7cNavigating the Bible: 1 Samuel - https://youtu.be/lY8wPElSFMYNavigating the Bible: Rute - https://youtu.be/YaH-t-ZzTaMNavigating the Bible: Judges - https://youtu.be/qNGcOf2o0NUNavigating the Bible: Joshua - https://youtu.be/hF28aThBtFsNavigating the Bible: Deuteronomy - https://youtu.be/HzmNgPOM4zUNavigating the Bible: Numbers - https://youtu.be/H1HO6V9HDxsNavigating the Bible: Leviticus - https://youtu.be/08RhDCXYex4Navigating the Bible: Exodus - https://youtu.be/NB9UTpS1F3MNavigating the Bible: Genesis - https://youtu.be/ddhjMfOoasAInspiring Dreams by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoonMusic promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/Creative Commons CC BY 4.0https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
How do you meet with God? How do you have a soul satisfying, hopeful relationship with God in this world? The question of hope and happiness has never seemed more elusive in a culture as prosperous as ours. We have never had more of our immediate needs taken for granted as we do today, and yet we find ourselves in the midst of the most anxious, psychologically burdened generation we've ever seen. Every day I am seeing best selling books and articles acknowledging this problem, sounding the alarm that all is not well in a world that just 150 years ago would have been considered a paradise. This revelation is a mercy from God. It's a mercy because we now have the surest evidence that we can stop wasting time thinking we are just one more discovery from finding hope. The answer to hope is found in God's Word, and we will see how this chapter displays that for us. Wonderfully, that hope is found in the midst of real life. As you no doubt noticed in the back half of the chapter, there isn't a ton to be happy about. The hard things of dying in child birth and a scandalous son cannot overshadow the hope that God offers. No matter how modern we get, these are among the worst problems we can imagine. Yet God's promises ring through even this and point to how we, too, can have a hopeful relationship with God. Let's look at this together in our two points Hope in God requires exclusive worship of God and Hope in God requires eternal waiting for God.
This week, Pastor Shelby preached from Isaiah 6:1–10, where we witness the prophet Isaiah encounter the glory and holiness of God. in a vision of the throne room of God. Overwhelmed by the presence of the Lord, Isaiah confesses, "Woe is me," recognizing his own sin and unworthiness. Yet God, purifies Isaiah through the touching of the hot coal to his lips—a foreshadowing of the purification we would receive through the sacrifice of Jesus. Isaiah's story doesn't end with shame; it leads to purpose. He moves from "Woe is me" to "Here I am, send me." That same transformation is available to us today. As a church, we're committed to walking alongside believers—not letting anyone stay stuck in the "woe is me" stage, but helping equip and encourage each person to step boldly into what God is calling them to do.
God often moves His people from seasons of comfort into seasons of calling. Just as Nehemiah served in the prestigious position of cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, many of us have found ourselves in comfortable places. Yet God's kingdom work frequently requires us to step beyond our comfort zones into spaces where our hearts break for His purposes.
You Are Seen #RTTBROS #Nightlight The SEEN Life: Moving from Hidden to Healed"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."- Psalm 139:23-24 (KJV)In the depths of our hearts lie chambers we'd rather keep locked. We carry fears that paralyze, shame that silences, expectations that disappoint, and needs that go unmet. Yet God calls us to live a SEEN life: one where nothing remains hidden from His loving gaze or our own honest reflection.What am I SCARED of? Fear has a way of whispering lies in the darkness, convincing us that we're not strong enough, smart enough, or worthy enough. But the psalmist knew that when we bring our fears into God's light, He meets us there. "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalm 27:1). Your fears lose their power when you name them before the One who has already conquered them.What am I EMBARRASSED about? Shame thrives in secrecy, but it withers in the presence of grace. Those moments that make us want to hide, our failures, our weaknesses, our past mistakes, are the very places where God's mercy shines brightest. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). What embarrasses you today can become tomorrow's testimony of God's redemptive power.What am I EXPECTING? Sometimes we build castles in the air with our expectations, only to watch them crumble when reality doesn't match our dreams. Unrealistic expectations breed disappointment, while unrealized ones create bitterness. But when we surrender our expectations to God's will, we find something better than what we imagined. "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord" (Isaiah 55:8). His plans surpass our expectations every time.What do I NEED? Beneath our wants lie our true needs, for love, acceptance, purpose, and peace. Often we seek these in places that cannot satisfy, but God knows our deepest needs before we even voice them. "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). When you identify what you truly need, you can bring those needs to the One who is able to meet them abundantly.Living SEEN means choosing vulnerability over hiding, truth over pretense, and faith over fear. It means allowing God to search the hidden places of your heart and trusting that what He finds there, He can heal and transform. When you dare to be fully known, by God and by trusted others, you discover that you are fully loved, not despite your struggles, but through them.Today, invite God into every corner of your heart. Let Him see what scares you, what shames you, what you're hoping for, and what you need. In His presence, you'll find that being SEEN is not something to fear, but something to embrace. For in His eyes, you are precious, chosen, and deeply loved.Be sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.https://linktr.ee/rttbros
Few of us would make the wrath of God our first choice for a Bible study. Yet God's prophets thundered words of His judgment to the people of their day. In this message, Pastor Lutzer lists the first of seven different ways that God judged Israel. God's warnings to the nations have not changed. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29
Few of us would make the wrath of God our first choice for a Bible study. Yet God's prophets thundered words of His judgment to the people of their day. In this message, Pastor Lutzer lists the first of seven different ways that God judged Israel. God's warnings to the nations have not changed. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Send us a textPride stands in the way of our salvation more often than we realize. The story of Naaman in 2 Kings 5 powerfully illustrates this timeless truth as we explore what happens when our expectations of a "grand entrance" into faith collide with God's simple requirements.Naaman, a celebrated military general, successful and respected by all, carried a devastating secret—he suffered from leprosy. Despite his accomplishments, this disease threatened everything. When told a prophet in Israel could heal him, he gathered his entourage, chariots, gifts, and wealth, making what he believed would be an impressive entrance worthy of the miracle he sought.But God's ways challenge our human expectations. Instead of an elaborate ceremony with the prophet waving his hands over Naaman's diseased skin, Elisha simply sent a messenger with basic instructions: "Go wash in the Jordan seven times." No spectacle. No recognition of Naaman's importance. Just a simple act of obedience requiring humility.The general's furious reaction mirrors how many approach salvation today. We want God to acknowledge our significance with signs, wonders, and spiritual fireworks. We imagine salvation should be a spectacular experience that honors our journey and status. Yet God consistently offers a path that begins with humbling ourselves.What ultimately transformed Naaman wasn't a grand miracle but a servant's simple question: "If the prophet had asked you to do something difficult, wouldn't you have done it? How much more when he says something so simple?" This profound reasoning cut through his pride, leading to healing that came through surrender rather than spectacle.Are you waiting for God to make a fuss over you before you'll believe? Have you rejected the simple gospel message because it doesn't match your expectations of how salvation should feel or look? Perhaps the miracle you seek is waiting on the other side of humility. Dip seven times in the simple truth of the gospel. No grand entrance required.Support the show
Focusing on God's grace, listen to Romans 3:23-28 … For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. … God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he makes sinners right in his sight when they believe in Jesus. Can we boast, then, that we have done anything to be accepted by God? No, because our acquittal is not based on obeying the law. It is based on faith. So we are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law. (NLT) Can you hear the connection between today's passage and yesterday's? The only way we are made right with God is through a relationship with Jesus. Once again, we believe that what God says He has done for us is true. Jesus paid the penalty for sin that we could never pay.Listen to verses 22 thru 24 in The Message Bible … The God-setting-things-right that we read about has become Jesus-setting-things-right for us. And not only for us, but for everyone who believes in him. For there is no difference between us and them in this. Since we've compiled this long and sorry record as sinners (both us and them) and proved that we are utterly incapable of living the glorious lives God wills for us, God did it for us. Out of sheer generosity he put us in right standing with himself. A pure gift. He got us out of the mess we're in and restored us to where he always wanted us to be. And he did it by means of Jesus Christ.Is there anything you could possibly do today to quote-unquote deserve your salvation?Do you view what God has done for you as His gift to you?We are free to become what God designed us to be because of Jesus. We pray you really allow that truth to sink in and take it as your own this week.Let's pray together: “Heavenly Father, forgive me when I don't believe what You can do in me because of things I have done. Help me to trust You, to believe You, and to live out what You have planned for me. As above, so below.”
ew of us would make the wrath of God our first choice for a Bible study. Yet God's prophets thundered words of His judgment to the people of their day. In this message, Pastor Lutzer helps us see God's revealed character in both His immediate and future judgments. In fact, God's purposes are ultimately rooted in love and mercy. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://offerrtw.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001.
Ever felt disappointed when prayers for healing go unanswered? That question can shake trust and leave the heart aching. Yet God invites people to bring every hope and heartbreak to Him—even the ones that feel unanswered. As Psalm 34:18 reminds, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” There's hope in His nearness, even in the waiting.MESSAGE NOTES: https://www.bible.com/events/49433437RESOURCES: https://www.canyonridge.orgBLOG: https://canyonridge.org/blogs/walk-differently-in-the-name-of-jesus
In this kickoff to our new series in Jonah, we explore what happens when God's call disrupts our comfort. Jonah isn't just a story about a fish—it's a deeply personal account of resistance, mercy, and God's unrelenting grace. The same Jesus we encountered in Revelation shows up here too, offering mercy to people who don't deserve it—just like us.Jonah is a prophet called to preach to Nineveh, a violent and brutal city. But instead of obeying, he runs—in the opposite direction. We see his downward spiral, and we wrestle with our own: when God speaks, do we follow or flee? This sermon confronts delayed obedience, self-protection, and the costly fare of rebellion.But God pursues us. He hurls storms not to destroy, but to wake us up—to call us back. And through it all, He's writing a story of mercy.Whether you're young and drifting or older and disillusioned, God's still speaking. Will you respond?Join us as we open Jonah 1 and see how the Word of the Lord comes—not just to Jonah—but to us. And like Jonah, we're invited to rise, repent, and be sent.Key Themes:· The God Who Sends: God calls Jonah to Nineveh—a brutal, pagan city—revealing His heart for even the most wicked. (Jonah 1:1–2)· The Cost of Disobedience: Jonah flees to Tarshish, paying a price to go the wrong way— like we often do. (Jonah 1:3)· Storms of Mercy: God hurls a storm to stop Jonah's escape, not as punishment, but as rescue. (Jonah 1:4–6)· Downward Descent: Every step away from God takes Jonah further down—geographically and spiritually. (Jonah 1:3–5)· Pagans Who See Clearly: The sailors fear God and act with more faith than the prophet, reminding us that sometimes outsiders see truth more clearly than insiders. (Jonah 1:14–16)Reflection:Jonah 1 is not just about a prophet—it's a mirror for us. We all have places we'd rather not go, people we think are beyond mercy, and moments we choose comfort over obedience. Yet God, in relentless grace, speaks into our lives and redirects us—not with shame, but with storms meant to save. As we sit with this text, we're asked a question that echoes in our lives today: When God speaks, will we go? Or will we flee and find that even in our running, God is already there?Key Texts:· Jonah 1· Psalm 139:7–12· Matthew 12:38–41· James 4:17· John 14:26· Mark 4:35–41· Micah 6:6–8Support Our Mission:Your generosity helps us proclaim Christ as King and equip disciples to make disciples. https://alloflife.churchcenter.com/givingVisit Our Website:www.alloflife.church
With hindsight, I can remember thousands of times when I acted selfishly or without integrity when dealing with coworkers. When I caught myself in those times, it was easy to pull back, feel like a failure, and stop trying. Yet God doesn't define us by our failures. He is a God of compassion and restoration, ... The post Fresh Start appeared first on Unconventional Business Network.
Pastor Jim explores Elijah's journey in 1 Kings 19, where despair follows his mountaintop victory. After Jezebel's threats, Elijah runs away feeling hopeless and alone. Yet God meets him in his weakness, providing food, rest, and eventually speaking not through dramatic signs but through a gentle whisper. Jim reflects on how God works both through and in us, even in our wandering and despair. He reminds listeners that the Christian life isn't just mountaintop experiences but also seasons of silence where God continues His faithful work.
In Judges 6–8, Gideon goes from hiding in fear to leading a miraculous victory over the Midianites, but not because he was strong, confident, or capable. In fact, he was the opposite. When God called him, Gideon saw himself as the least in the weakest clan. Yet God responded, “I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive.” The story shows how God gradually increased Gideon's faith, highlighting His strength rather than Gideon's abilities. In the end, Gideon's victory highlights a foundational truth: when we move in faith and obedience, God handles the outcome. We don't need to be strong when the One who fights for us is.Scriptures ReferencedJudges 6:12, 8:22-23; Isaiah 55:8; Romans 8:31; 2 Corinthians 12:9; Hebrews 11:6Key InsightsWe often try to fix symptoms. God wants to fix the root cause.God has an uncanny knack of picking the most likely candidates.It is never about your ability. It is always about your faith.The starting place of your faith is acknowledging the existence of God.Anything that takes the place of the Lord is an idol.God first asks us to remove the thing that has taken His rightful place.You cannot defeat your demons if you're enjoying their company.God's way will require very little of you and a whole lot of HIm.Faith requires us to go against our natural instincts.God will always do the heavy lifting if you'll let Him.Prayer TargetsPlease join us in prayer for:A hunger for the Word.Tears for the lost.Testimonies to share.Get sermons delivered automatically: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | YouTube | Your Favorite Podcast AppWe would love it if you would consider joining us in person for one of our Sunday gatherings.Gathering TimesSundays, 9:00 AMSundays, 11:00 AMThursdays, 6:00 PMContact InfoSpringhouse Church14119 Old Nashville HighwaySmyrna TN 37167615-459-3421 Additional ResourcesConnect online: Download our appVisit our website at SpringhouseSmryna.com.Subscribe on YouTubeGiving: Online tithes and offeringsJoin us online: LivestreamLearn what we believe.Find out what ministries we support.Discover Springhouse Theatre CompanyCCLI License 2070006
Join us today on our supernatural Friday Podcast as we share a testimony of a man who was arrested and imprisoned for the gospel yet God never left nor forsook him until he was free. Watch this and then pray for it. Miracles in your own life today.
"The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy." Psalm 103:8Mercy is God's tender-hearted compassion toward the miserable and the guilty. It is the pity of a holy God stooping down to the helpless sinner--not because He must, but because He delights to. Mercy is the overflow of His eternal love—relieving the wretched, pardoning the guilty, and raising the fallen.From the beginning, God's mercy has been on display. It spared Adam and Eve in the garden. It delivered Israel from bondage in Egypt. It sent prophets to warn the rebellious nation. And in the fullness of time, it sent the Savior to redeem His people. Mercy is not a reluctant gesture—it is the joy of God's heart. "God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ!" Ephesians 2:4-5. God's mercy is not exhausted by repeated sins, nor limited by the depth of our guilt. The dying thief found mercy in his final breath—and so may any who call on the Lord.Yet God's mercy never sets aside His justice. It does not sweep sin under the rug—it satisfies God's justice. This is the wonder of the cross--where divine justice was upheld, and mercy was poured out. God did not overlook our sin—He condemned it in Christ. At Calvary, mercy and justice met; righteousness and peace kissed! Psalm 85:10If we have received such undeserved mercy, then how can we withhold it from others? Shall we, who have been forgiven much, remain unmerciful? Let us be as our Father—kind, compassionate, and forgiving. And let us never forget: we stand by mercy alone.Here is our hope and our song—that God delights in mer
The people of Le Chambon, France risked everything to help save the lives of as many as 5,000 individuals, many of them Jewish children, during the Nazi occupation. The refugees fleeing their homes were hidden in the community’s homes and farms. The townspeople were inspired by pastor André Trocmé, who called on his congregation to help by referencing the words of Deuteronomy 10:19, “You are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.” This command given to the Israelites comes in a passage that begins with the reminder that the whole earth belongs to God, who is “mighty and awesome” (v. 17). Yet God chose to love the Israelites (v. 15). He also cares for people in vulnerable or unfamiliar situations (v. 18), including foreigners who weren’t part of the nation of Israel. As the Israelites settled in their new home, they were to imitate God’s love and care for those needing help, especially because they knew the unique struggles of being a foreigner (v. 19). If we’ve been at a job a long time or lived in the same home for several years, God may give us the opportunity to show kindness to someone who feels like a “foreigner,” perhaps by providing helpful advice to a new coworker or assistance to a recently relocated family. When we do, we demonstrate God’s love to those in unfamiliar, and often vulnerable, situations.
Message Us!The dramatic conversion of Saul on the Damascus road stands as one of Christianity's most remarkable transformations—a zealous persecutor of Christians who became the faith's most influential apostle. This powerful story isn't just a historical account; it reveals the anatomy of true spiritual conversion that remains relevant for every person today.Before encountering Christ, Saul (later known as Paul) was the perfect religious man by external standards—a Pharisee with impeccable Jewish credentials who believed he was serving God by hunting down followers of "the Way." His fury was so intense that Scripture describes him as "breathing threats and murder," painting him as more beast than man in his relentless pursuit. This man would travel 150 miles just to capture Christians and drag them bound to Jerusalem. By modern standards, he would be classified as nothing less than a religious terrorist.Yet God's grace reaches even the most unlikely candidates. On that dusty road, the resurrected Jesus intercepted Saul with a blinding light and a probing question: "Why are you persecuting me?" This divine encounter illustrates four essential elements of genuine conversion: revelation of Christ's resurrection, repentance from sin, spiritual resurrection from death to life, and visible results that evidence an inward transformation.The story challenges us to move beyond mere religious observation. As the speaker pointedly asks, "Being a fan of Christ, sitting in the stands watching from a distance can be fascinating, but that will not save a person." True Christianity isn't about moral improvement or religious performance—it's about moving from spiritual death to life through a personal encounter with the risen Jesus.Whether you're encountering Christianity for the first time or have attended church for decades without experiencing genuine conversion, Paul's story offers hope that no one is beyond God's redemptive reach. What better day than Easter to cross that line from death to life? The invitation stands open: come to Jesus and experience the same transforming grace that turned history's most notorious Christian-hunter into its most passionate apostle.Support the show
The Romans expertly executed Jesus, ensuring He was truly dead. Yet God's power prevailed, resurrecting His Son in glorious triumph. In this message from John 20, Pastor Lutzer highlights Mary Magdalene, a woman prominent in Jesus' life. Consider the wonder of seeing your Savior alive again after witnessing His death! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29
The Romans expertly executed Jesus, ensuring He was truly dead. Yet God's power prevailed, resurrecting His Son in glorious triumph. In this message from John 20, Pastor Lutzer highlights Mary Magdalene, a woman prominent in Jesus' life. Consider the wonder of seeing your Savior alive again after witnessing His death! This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
The Romans expertly executed Jesus, ensuring He was truly dead. Yet God's power prevailed, resurrecting His Son in glorious triumph. In this message from John 20, Pastor Lutzer highlights Mary Magdalene, a woman prominent in Jesus' life. She was the last woman at the cross and the first woman at the tomb. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://offerrtw.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001.
God's original design for humanity was a life of close relationship with Him. When we chose to pursue life apart from God, we experienced what Scripture calls "the fall." Yet God's love never wavered. Through Jesus and His sacrifice on the cross, we see God's true nature—loving, self-giving, and transformative. Jesus didn't just demonstrate God's love; He dismantled the broken systems of this world and initiated a new creation. This rescue mission invites us back to our original purpose: living as beings created in God's image, entrusted with authority and purpose. At the heart of this relationship is authentic freedom—the ability to choose to trust God and live in His love. Our story begins and ends with God's desire for connection with us.
Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 1 Samuel 15-16; 1 Chronicles 5; Matthew 1 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible podcast, where today we celebrate over one hundred days of journeying through the scriptures together. Join Hunter, your Bible reading coach, as he reflects on the transformative power of this habit, emphasizing that while the Bible itself doesn't save us, it points us to Jesus, the true source of salvation and the healer of our souls. Dive into today's readings from First Samuel, First Chronicles, and the beginning of Matthew's gospel, exploring stories of kings, prophets, and the lineage of the Messiah. Hunter shares insights on how God's anointing oil, unlike the world's oil, brings true peace, hope, and love. As we journey through scripture, let us continue to grow in understanding and devotion, keeping our hearts open to the work of the Spirit in our lives. TODAY'S DEVOTION: The world's oil is not what we truly crave. In our world today, oil is a symbol of power and influence. It establishes kingdoms and directs economies. People wage wars over it, lives are shaped and shattered by its value. But in reality, the world's oil cannot provide what we desperately need. It cannot bring us peace, offer us hope, or fill us with love. It does not have the power to transform the human heart. Yet God's oil is entirely different. It comes from a humble olive, representing His presence. This oil signifies the peace, hope, and love that only He can provide, transforming every heart it touches. In today's reading, the moment Samuel anointed David with oil, it was more than a physical act; it was a representation of God's divine presence and approval. David stands as a symbol of the anointed one, pointing us to Jesus – the ultimate expression of God's loving presence. Jesus, the true anointed one, was sent to offer the world an overflowing abundance of peace, hope, and love. According to the scriptures, He was born of a virgin, lived among us, was crucified, died, buried, and then rose from the dead. Now, He offers the oil of His spirit – His presence – to all of us. This anointing transforms us into lights in this dark world, filling us with His peace, hope, and love. Let us embrace the spirit's presence within us as we glow with His light and share His love with the world. Hallelujah. That's a prayer I hold close for my own soul, for my family, and for you too. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen. Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. And now Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. And where there is sadness, Joy. Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life. Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ. Amen. OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation. Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL
Welcometo Pastor's Chat! Today, we're diving into a powerful lesson from Jesus in Luke14:7-11, where He teaches us about humility through a parable told at a dinnertable. You can easily picture the scene in this passage. Jesus is at a dinner,watching guests scramble for the best seats, closest to the host, the spotsthat scream, “I'm important!” It's a familiar human impulse, isn't it? We wantto be noticed, valued, respected. Maybe it's not about seats at a table for us,but we chase status in other ways, through titles, likes on social media, orbeing seen with the “right” people. Jesussees this and tells a parable that flips the script. He says, don't rush to thehead of the table, assuming you deserve it. Why? Because pride sets you up forembarrassment. If someone more honorable arrives, you'll be asked to move down,talk about a humbling moment! Instead, Jesus says, take the lowest seat. Becontent with less. Trust the host to notice and invite you higher if it'sfitting. Thisisn't just about dinner etiquette, it's about the posture of our hearts. Jesusends with a principle that echoes through Scripture: “Whoever exalts himselfwill be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Humility is afundamental grace in the Christian life, and yet it is elusive; if you know youhave it, you have lost it! It has well been said that humility is not thinkingmeanly of ourselves; it is simply not thinking of ourselves at all. Petermust have remembered this occasion because later he writes in his epistle “…Yes, all of you be submissive to oneanother, and be clothed with humility, for "God resists the proud, Butgives grace to the humble." Therefore humble yourselves under the mightyhand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” (1 Peter 5:5-6). Proverbs13:10 teaches us that, “Only by pride comes contention…”. Pride is at the rootof all of our sins. Eve was tempted by Satan with pride, “You will be like godif you eat this fruit…” (Genesis 3:5). Jesusis the greatest example of humility, and we would do well to ask the HolySpirit to enable us to imitate Him (Phil. 2:1-16). He didn't grasp for glory,though He deserved it all. He washed feet, served sinners, and died on a cross.Yet God exalted Him above every name (Philippians 2:5-11). That's the kind ofhumility we're called to. So,what does this look like today? Humility shows up in small choices: lettingsomeone else go first, listening instead of speaking, serving without expectingapplause. It's resisting the urge to promote yourself and trusting God to opendoors. It's recognizing that everyone at the table, whether they're “important”or not, because they matter to God. Here'sthe challenge: This week, practice one act of humility each day. Maybe it'sgiving up your spot in line, let someone cut in front of you while driving withkindness and grace, complimenting someone without expecting anything back, ordoing a kind deed anonymously. Notice how it feels to step back and let Godtake the lead. We need God's grace to live a life of selflessness every day!And we should remember that, “God resist the proud, but gives grace to thehumble…” (James 4:6). Myfriends, by God's grace, let's go out and live this parable. Choose the lowseat. Serve someone quietly. Watch how God works through your humility. Prayer:LordJesus, thank You for showing us the beauty of humility. Forgive us for thetimes we chase status or put ourselves first. Teach us to take the lowestplace, to trust You with our worth, and to serve others with love. Holy Spirit,guide us this week to live humbly, reflecting Your heart. In Jesus' name,Amen. Godbless!
Send us a textFrom the depths of human disobedience to the heights of divine grace, Romans 5:19 unveils a profound spiritual reality: "For as by one man's disobedience, many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous." This powerful scripture launches us into an exploration of sin's origins and God's extraordinary response.Sin entered our world through a single act of disobedience in the Garden of Eden, lodging itself deep within humanity's heart. Like a foreign object unknowingly trapped in one's throat, sin caused damage without our understanding its source. Here's where God's mercy shines brilliantly—rather than abandoning us to our condition, He provided the law as a spiritual x-ray, revealing what was causing our suffering. This diagnosis wasn't punishment but grace, showing us what needed healing.Yet God's love didn't stop at diagnosis. In the ultimate act of redemption, Jesus Christ became sin for us, breaking death's hold through His sacrifice. What began with one man's disobedience found its remedy in one man's perfect obedience. This singular act of love offers us freedom from sin's chains and the opportunity to spend eternity with our Creator. Whether you're hearing this message for the first time or have walked with Jesus for years, the invitation remains: embrace this salvation for yourself and share it with others. The good news is too powerful to keep to ourselves—Jesus is alive, and He has rescued us from sin!Support the show
In this Bible Story, civil war breaks out between the tribe of Benjamin and the rest of the Israelites. Yet God is faithful and promises to restore Benjamin and the city of Gilead. This story is inspired by Judges 20-21. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Judges 21:6 from the King James Version.Episode 72: Disgusted and terrified at what had happened in Benjamin, the rest of Israel had decided to assemble and seek the will of God for what they should do. As one nation, the 11 other tribes rose against the tribe of Benjamin. Peaceful negotiations were fruitless and war ensued. Battle after battle, Israel lost to the tribe of Benjamin until God gave them victory. But no celebration followed this victory, instead, there was mourning as Israel had brought one of its brothers to the brink of extinction. Our vengeance, if even for a right cause often brings more harm than good.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Among its leadership lessons, the Old Testament book of Exodus reminds leaders today of the value of seeking God's strength in our weakness. When God called him to leadership, Moses immediately began listing his shortcomings, from lack of credibility to poor speech. Yet God assures Moses that God will be with him. “The Lord said to him, ... The post Leadership Lessons from Exodus: Seek God's Strength appeared first on Unconventional Business Network.
Share with us what you think about UncommonTEEN! I do read your fanmail, but can't message you back! Chat with me at UncommonTEEN.com!If nobody has told you lately…and even if they have, I want you to know that you are valuable. You are loved by God. He has a purpose and a plan for your life that are so much greater than you can even imagine. You are not here by mistake. You are not a mistake. Jesus loves you! He values your life so much that He was willing to give up His own life so that He could have a relationship with you!This week on the UncommonTEEN Podcast, we are going to talk about the importance of what Jesus did for us on the cross, how it shows His great love for you and how much He values you, and what His dying on the cross actually did for us and for others!1. Sin has a price tag. Romans 6:23 says, “For the wages (or the payment) of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.2. Someone must pay the price for that sin, and it should have been us since we are the ones who mess up. However, someone else paid the price…His name is Jesus. Romans 5:8-But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. 3. Jesus paid the price so we could go free. Romans 3:23-24 says, “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. 4. And because of what Jesus did, you no longer have to pay the price for sin. Think about it this way, If you were at a restaurant with your family and your parents paid the bill for your food, would you still go up and try to pay the bill again before you leave? Of course not, the bill has already been paid. Jesus has already paid it and all you need to do is receive Him!Ladies, we have some exciting news! The SOAR Community is now FREE!! All you have to do to see if SOAR is right for you is grab your parents, tell them why you are excited about SOAR, and while you still have them with you, go to uncommonteen.com/coaching and click on the application under SOAR and fill it out! **There are limited spots available. ***At this time, SOAR is only open to teen girls 13-17 in the United States. You are beautiful! You are valuable!Your beauty and your value don't change, Even if someone fails to seeHow incredible God made you!Don't forget to head on over to uncommonTEEN.com/coaching and fill our your SOAR Application today!The UncommonTEEN App is still in review on both the Apple Store and the Google Play Store! It looks like Google is going to take a bit longer, but the Apple App should be coming very soon!To ask questions for an upcoming podcast episode or if you need prayer, go to UncommonTEEN.com.For the Ask Me Anything Questions, click on the RED BUTTON at the top of the screen. These questions may used on a future episode of the UncommonTEEN Podcast!For any prayer requests or more personal questions, click on the YELLOW CHAT TAB at the bottom right-hand corner of the screen. These will not be used on the podcast. Connect with Us!Website: UncommonTEEN.comInstagram: @uncommon.teen
Send us a textA dramatic power shift transforms Egypt from Israel's safe haven into their prison. After generations of peaceful coexistence following Joseph's administration, a new pharaoh emerges with a radically different vision for his kingdom. Viewing the prosperous Israelite community not as valuable contributors but as potential threats, he implements increasingly harsh measures to control their population and break their spirit.What makes this historical moment particularly striking is how dramatically it backfires. Exodus 1:12 reveals the divine irony: "The more they oppressed them, the more they multiplied and spread." Rather than reassessing his approach when faced with clear evidence of failure, Pharaoh doubles down on cruelty—imposing unbearable labor conditions making "their lives bitter with hard bondage." This pattern of escalating oppression reveals much about how fear-based leadership operates, choosing to intensify failed strategies rather than change course.The Egyptians, who prided themselves on avoiding menial labor and looked down on shepherds, transformed their relationship with Israel from mutual benefit to exploitation. Despite having no evidence that Israel posed any actual threat or harbored revolutionary ambitions, the new administration systematically dismantled their freedoms and dignity over generations. Yet God's timeline operated on a scale beyond human imagination—allowing this situation to persist for 430 years before dramatic intervention.This pivotal moment in biblical history shows what happens when nations reject wisdom for power, when leaders choose fear over partnership, and when the desire for control outweighs justice. It also demonstrates that divine justice moves according to its own timeline, not ours. The seeds planted in these verses would eventually grow into one of history's most dramatic liberation stories. How might we recognize similar patterns of fear-based leadership in our world today?Support the show
Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The mystery of the Eucharist stands at the heart of Catholic faith and worship—yet how deeply do we truly understand it? Diving into the rich theology of Christ as the Bread of Life, we explore the profound reality that in receiving Holy Communion, we encounter Jesus Himself—body, blood, soul, and divinity.Starting with the Gospel account of the multiplication of loaves and fishes, we uncover how this miracle foreshadowed the even greater miracle of the Eucharist. When Jesus declared, "I am the living bread that has come down from heaven," He wasn't speaking metaphorically but revealing a truth that would become central to Christian worship for millennia. Through careful examination of both Scripture and Catechism teachings, we explore the three-fold reality of the Eucharist: making present the sacrifice of the Cross, imparting grace to nourish our souls, and pledging future glory.Throughout history, Eucharistic belief has faced challenges—from medieval disputes to Protestant Reformation denials of the Real Presence. Yet God consistently raised up defenders like Thomas Aquinas and inspired Eucharistic miracles to reaffirm this central truth. We consider practical ways to deepen our Eucharistic devotion during Lent, including spending time in thanksgiving after Mass and revisiting catechetical teachings. As St. John Vianney reminds us, "If we realize the value of Holy Communion, the three divine persons dwell in our soul. It is a miniature heaven." Join us in rediscovering the transformative power of recognizing Christ truly present in the Blessed Sacrament.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon
We're surrounded by bad advice everywhere we look. Yet God promises to give us wisdom if only we seek Him! When we follow His direction for our lives, He can use us to grow His Kingdom by reaching others.
Disclaimer: This season is about trauma, and it might be difficult at times for some listeners. It's not graphic, but each episode does cover sensitive topics.>> Click HERE to get free visuals, handouts and discussion questions for Conversational Counseling sent straight to your email!
“But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.” (James 3:17–18 NLT) Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr., famously said, “Some people are so heavenly minded that they are of no earthly good.” He seems to be suggesting that “the wisdom from above” (as James refers to it) doesn’t always translate to daily life. James would beg to differ. In the passage above, he identifies several qualities of God’s wisdom that make a very real difference in people’s lives every day. First, the wisdom that comes from God is pure. It reveals God’s will. It shows us how His will impacts every area of our lives, from our relationship with our spouse or loved ones to the way we approach our work. It teaches us how to prioritize His will. And it shows us how our lives will be better, more impactful, and more fulfilling if we do His will. Period. There’s no hidden agenda or dark underbelly with God’s wisdom. People may try to twist it or hijack it for their own purposes, but the wisdom itself is beyond reproach. We can commit ourselves to it fully. We can build our relationships on it. We can put it at the center of everything we do. And we never have to worry about what the consequences will be. Second, the wisdom that comes from God is peace loving. Some people try to weaponize wisdom and use it to antagonize or “defeat” others who disagree with them. God’s wisdom doesn’t encourage those impulses. Instead, it encourages humility, compassion, and bridge-building. God’s wisdom doesn’t encourage us to take sides against other people; it encourages us to find common ground to build on. That’s why it’s so valuable to people in relationships. It unites us and strengthens our bond. It inspires us to work together when we face hurdles, instead of working against one another. Third, the wisdom that comes from God is gentle. Yes, it has the power to change lives and to make us see the error of our ways. And its truth can’t be denied because it comes from God, the Author of truth. And His wisdom is the highest moral authority. Yet God wants us to handle it thoughtfully and humbly. Not with an “I’m right and you’re wrong” attitude, but with a genuine compassion and concern for others. “We will speak the truth in love,” as Paul says in Ephesians 4:15 (NLT). Fourth, the wisdom that comes from God makes you willing to yield to others. Here’s that emphasis on humility again. God’s wisdom encourages us to recognize that we can learn from other people—especially if we are “quick to listen, slow to speak” (James 1:19 NLT). If you see other people—including your spouse, family members, and loved ones—as potential teachers, you will value them more. And your relationship with them will deepen. Reflection question: What have you learned from your spouse or someone else close to you? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.