Podcasts about yet god

Do we as the church know that God rules and controls earthly kingdoms and our lives; do we submit to Him graciously? Do we recognize that God's sovereignty leads to humility and reliance on Him, reminding us that all earthly power is under His dominion?

Send us a textDaily Devotion Podcast – Healing Family Bonds in Christ | Joshua 24:15Show Notes:In today's Daily Devotion Podcast, English preacher Reverend Ben Cooper, speaking from London, England, leads a powerful daily devotional prayer time for family restoration, based on Joshua 24:15 – “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” This message speaks directly to families in crisis, homes under spiritual attack, and relationships in need of God's healing touch.Families worldwide – across every nation, tribe, and language – are facing unprecedented challenges: conflict, loss, grief, division, and the subtle erosion of unity. Yet God's Word in Psalm 133:1 declares, “How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity.” This prayer invites God to be the cornerstone of our homes, as Psalm 127:1 reminds us, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labour in vain.”Reverend Ben draws a vital distinction: We are called to serve the Lord, not religion. As Jesus said in John 15:5, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” Authentic relationship with Christ is the foundation for every strong family.In this devotional, we intercede for the salvation of family members, standing on the promise of Acts 16:31 – “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” We pray for those who are spiritually distant, emotionally hurting, or physically separated, declaring the hope of 1 Corinthians 13:7 – “Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”Life Application: Write Joshua 24:15 somewhere visible in your home. Pray for each family member by name, asking the Holy Spirit to draw hearts to Christ. Stand on Matthew 7:24-25, building your family on the rock that cannot be shaken. Take five minutes each day to speak blessing over your home and thank God for His covering.This episode is part of our Daily Devotion Podcast series – short but powerful devotionals, released morning, midday, and evening, with special midnight prayer sessions reaching listeners worldwide. Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, and other global platforms.If this ministry has encouraged you, please partner with us so we can continue sharing the Gospel across the nations. Support today by visiting RBChristianRadio.net and clicking Buy Me a Coffee. Together, we can see families healed, restored, and anchored in Christ.Tags: daily devotion, daily devotional, daily prayer time, daily devotion podcast, Christian prayer podcast, family healing prayer, Joshua 24:15 devotional, UK Christian preacher, Reverend Ben Cooper podcast, London England Christian podcast, global daily devotional, Bible-based prayerSupport the showThank you for listening! For more inspiring content, visit our main site at RBChristianRadio.net. Explore our ministry services and celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net. If you'd like to support our work, you can now Buy Me a Coffee and help us keep spreading the word. Every bit makes a difference! God bless and see you in the next episode.

Send us a textFamily relationships can be both our greatest joy and deepest pain, as illustrated in the story of Jacob and Esau. Their family was marked by parental favoritism, with Isaac loving Esau for his hunting skills and Rebekah favoring Jacob. This favoritism led to destructive patterns: Jacob's manipulation in trading stew for Esau's birthright and later deceiving his father for the blessing, and Esau's impulsivity and rage. These cycles of dysfunction mirror our own family struggles today. Yet God's grace can and does work through broken families.This message was preached at Centerpointe Community Church by Pastor Mike Wrigglesworth on Sunday, August 3rd, 2025Support the show

Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”The box had been gathering dust under the bed for years. Inside were the remnants of a journey to Russia that forever changed Jamie McAleer's family. "I never thought I'd go to Russia," she recalls, having grown up during the Cold War when the Soviet Union was considered the enemy. Yet God had other plans that would take her across the world to find her son.Listen to this moving conversation that will challenge you to recognize God's hand in your own life story and consider how sharing your journey might inspire generations to come.Find Jamie's Book Here: I Will Come To YouFollow us and watch on X: John Paul II Renewal @JP2RenewalSubscribe to our Newly Resurrected YouTube Channel!Read Jack's Latest Blog: "The Tale We've Fallen Into"Support the show

Click here for more on this topic and other free resources - https://www.drjimrichards.com One of the most consistent warnings in the New Testament is to guard against offense. We often think of an offense as something that hurts our feelings, but in reality, it's something far more dangerous. An offense is anything that causes us to stumble or lose our footing in the faith. That's why the Apostle Paul urges us to “gird our feet with the Gospel of Peace.” In the ancient world, maintaining your footing was essential to surviving any battle. The same is true today in the spiritual battles we face. If we stumble at the word of God, we will fall! Over the years, I've been asked this question by pastors and leaders around the world: “Why are people so easily offended?” Even after more than half a century of active ministry, I remain amazed at how easily believers fall into offense, not just with one another, but even with God. And while it might seem like a mystery, the answer is simple: most 21st-century believers lack a deep foundation in the New Covenant. Many don't fully understand what Jesus accomplished through His death, burial, and resurrection. All this is because we don't know how to understand the Scripture! Yet God has given us everything we need. Through His Word, He provides explicit instruction. The Holy Spirit is our internal teacher. He brings us to a place of understanding and guides us step-by-step until we reach victory and safety! Join me this week as we explore how to become Stable, Secure, and Immovable in our faith. No more offense. No more stumbling. Just a life anchored in peace, strength, and confidence in God!

Send us a textForgiveness: it can be a challenge when you've been victimized. Yet God for the sake of His Son forgave us our trespasses. Today we will unpack a most challenging statement Jesus made.

Series: "For the City" (Vision), Jeremiah 29:4-7 #FTCTitle: “Why pray for the peace and prosperity of the city?"Subtitle: "Our plan for loving God and loving people in our city and beyond."Scripture: Jeremiah 29:4-7; Mark 4:26-29; 1 Corinthians 3:6-9Go: John 17:20; Luke 10:1-11Gospel: Acts 17:32-34 (4 responses/traffic light)Grow: Matthew 22:37-39; 28:18-20 + 411 + Commands of ChristGather: Acts 2:36-47 + Commands of Christ 3/3rds groups; DBS; Hi/Lo; Follow & Fish; etc.Guide: (MAWL)Bottom line: We pray for and seek the peace and prosperity for our city because it's God's missionary plan for loving God and loving people.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONI love coffee cups. I don't drink coffee. I know, I know, that's weird on multiple levels. Let me tell you how hopeless I am. I don't drink coffee (and hot chocolate on a little), but I love to shop for coffee cups. Now, I do have a pet peeve about coffee cups. When we get our theology from coffee cups.Coffee cup theology can be misleading. I mean, there's just no room for context on that shiny cup of ceramic goodness. It's not like the coffee cup with Jeremiah 29:11 on it (“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” NIV‬‬) has room to say that Israel was told this by God while living in exile in the capital city of their arch enemy the Babylonians because they were spiritually unfaithful to him. Not sure that would sell well either.Transition:“Have you ever found yourself somewhere you didn't want to be, facing a situation you didn't choose? That's where the Israelites found themselves—exiled in Babylon. And yet, God speaks into their situation, not with an escape plan, but with a call to pray for and to seek the peace and prosperity of the place in which they're stuck.”Understanding ExileDefinition (Jeremiah 29 context):In this passage, exile refers to the forced relocation of the people of Judah from Jerusalem to Babylon after its conquest by King Nebuchadnezzar in 597–586 BC. It wasn't just geographic—it was spiritual, cultural, and emotional dislocation.They were living among people who didn't share their faith, customs, or values—a godless empire with strange idols and foreign tongues. Yet God didn't say, “Escape.” He said, “Engage.”Key insight:Exile is not just displacement; it's God's discipline with a redemptive purpose.It reminds us that home isn't always where we are, but where God is.OUTLINEWHY we should pray for the peace and prosperity of our city:Because the Lord told us to. (29:4) Our faith is that simple. A. Either we trust and obey the Lord, orB. We don't. To not trust and obey is sin.Because it's part of God's way of rescuing his people from the kingdom of darkness. He tells Israel to settle down and live their lives in the midst of their (and his) enemies. But to do it with an eye to the crowds (the harvest) and the clouds (his return) for their transformation. This requires prayer. Abiding in Christ.The crowds, in this case, happen to be his enemies--the Babylonians.The clouds, in this case, refer to the end of their exile in 70 years.WHAT does this look like? We "bloom where we're planted." We settle in to our circles of influence and accountability.Influence--those circles of people we interact with where we live, work, learn and play.Accountability--we will stand before God one day and answer for how we did or didn't do this; for how we led or didn't lead our family to do this. God planted you at your address for a reason. For this season, you're to be Jesus to those around you there.We multiply. We build our career and homestead as if we're going to be here a while. For Israel, it was in the midst of their enemy, Babylon. For us, it is in America and in the midst of enemies of God. (29:5)We build our family. (29:6)This includes our biological family. (Kids, grandkids)Can include extended family. Can include adopted family. (Formally and not)Certainly includes your spiritual/church family.We do this until our "70 years" are over. Then we go home; back to Jerusalem/Zion. Cf. Revelation 21:1-8We pray for the peace and prosperity of our city where we live, work, learn and play. (7)We do this as we go about our lives.Why? Because it benefits us and our family tangibly.Because it benefits us, and family and our world spiritually/eternally.We do not believe those who live for other gods. (29:8-9)We do this until he takes us home. This is his plan for us.HOW we pray for the peace and prosperity of our city: "A Vision For the City: Jesus & Paul's Strategy Illustrated by 4 Fields of Kingdom Growth" (Optional)oGo together: John 17:20 - that we may be one as we pray and go into the cityLuke 10:1-11 - How Jesus trained his disciples to go:Pray for workers for the harvestBe a worker in the harvestBe prepared to suffer in the harvestGo empty-handed so you'll depend on the LordLook for people of peace; they unlock many moreBless them and then receive what they offerHeal the sick; proclaim the good news that the kingdom of God is nearLeave when not welcomed; tell them why you're moving onGospel: Acts 17:32-34 (4 responses)Share the gospel wherever you goSome will mock you--move onSome will want to know more (or pretend to want to know more) - give them more Some will trust Christ--give them more & train them upSome will already know Christ--offer to train them upGrow: Matthew 28:18-20 + 411 + Commands of ChristLearn the words, ways and works of Jesus ChristLead others in the words...Gather: Acts 2:36-47 + Commands of Christ - Shows us how to live as the church3/3rds groups; DBS; Hi/Lo; Follow & Fish; etc.A church does not have to look like what we see most visibly in AmericaIt doesn't require a seminary degreeIt doesn't require bricks and mortarTo say you follow Jesus but don't actively engage as a member of a church is not the NT wayGuide: (MAWL) We lead others to follow us as we follow Jesus byModeling for themAssisting themWatching them Leaving them to do it and lead others to do itCONCLUSIONConsider sharing the story of why Neal McGlohon started the Cypress Project here (see notes).So the Lord Jesus calls his disciples to keep their eyes on the clouds and the crowds. Keep your eyes on the people you see where you live, work, learn and play each day. For he has you there on purpose for a purpose.Also, keep your eyes on the clouds. For this is not all there is. This is not our home. Our home awaits us. Our exile in this world is temporary. We will go and stand before our Creator one day. And as his kids we'll be welcomed home with great zeal from our Lord and Savior. However, if we do known him as Lord and Savior, we'll simply meet him as Lord. And that means we'll be forever separated from him. And that will be eternal misery.But if you're here today, know that God has surrounded you with people who have their eyes on the crowds and the clouds. As we await his return to take us home, we are looking for opportunities to show and tell the good news about a great kingdom and exalted king. A king who forgives and blesses beyond anything we could ever deserve.He calls you to himself right now. Will you believe and receive his mercy and grace today?Bottom line: We pray for and seek the peace and prosperity for our city because it's God's missionary plan for loving God and loving people.Will you believe apart of that plan?INVITATIONWhat about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTES

Far home, how do we worship God when our faith is confronted? What are the idols that we set up in our lives to worship?

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.  

 (In the spirit of Billy Graham's unflinching truth-telling)The Hidden Child of GodWhile others played in innocence,You wept in shadows.Where they were shaped by laughter,You were tempered by rejection's jagged stones—Misunderstood. Isolated. Bearing burdens too heavy for small shoulders.Questioning:"Why was I the outcast?Why did loneliness cradle me like a mother?"The Divine AnswerThis was no accident. Heaven forges warriors in fire, not comfort.Your tears were holy water.Your wounds were sacred classrooms.That crushing weight? The Potter's hands molding clay."The smith hammers glowing steel without pity—His focus is the sword's final form."So God allowed your pain—not as punishment, but preparation.The Chosen Child's MarkingsYou never belonged in the crowd's shallow games.Bullies smelled divinity on you—and attacked what they couldn't understand.Your ‘abandonment' was armor—the enemy can't kill what he can't find.World says: "Trauma."God says: "Training."World whispers: "Tragedy."Heaven roars: "Transformation."The Unbreakable Warrior's CrownNow they marvel at your strength—But they don't know the price.They envy your faith—Unaware it was forged in furnaces that would break them.Result:No one can blackmail you—you've already survived hell.What was stolen in youth, God restores with interest.Your childhood didn't destroy you; it anointed you.My Story: From Hell to Heaven's ArmsBorn unwanted. Quarantined as an infant, crying among strangers.Raised in hatred. Beaten daily. Hated for my honesty. My sister's torment.Escaped. Cut ties forever.Yet God...Gave me satori at 10 years old—high in a tree's embrace.Opened spiritual visions at 12, though I knew not meditation.Spared me from the 2004 tsunami after drawing me to India.I'd never been baptized.With 28 years, I got my Kundalini and had the opportunity to be over 10 years in mediation retreats mainly in India. The president of Hindus adored me… Now?Life remains a battlefield. But every challenge deepens my faith.Final Charge to the ChosenYour pain had purpose.Your isolation was incubation.What man meant for evil, God shaped for glory."Have faith in the Lord.You were never abandoned—You were set apart. "My Video:  The Chosen One's Childhood  https://youtu.be/VIpuHdgI87MMy Audio: https://divinesuccess.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/Podcast4/The-Chosen-One's-Childhood.mp3

2025, like most years, hasn't been easy. Yet God remains at work—we may have been “roughed up,” but in His hands, we are neither forgotten nor abandoned. Paul wrote Philippians while imprisoned in conditions of unspeakable horror: overcrowded prisons with suffocating air, sleepless nights in chains, underground chambers devoid of light, corroding iron shackles, and appalling filth. Yet Paul wasn't deterred by these devastating circumstances. Instead, he found something far more devastating: the life he used to live before Christ. Paul demonstrates three key principles: what he left behind, what he pressed toward, and how we can follow his example. WATCH FULL SERVICE ON YOUTUBE DOWNLOAD PDF SERMON NOTES HERE

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.  

Psalm 106

Life is full of moments where we feel lost, off track, or stuck in the “space between” where God's promises feel distant. Just as the Israelites wandered and doubted on their way to the Promised Land, we too can miss God's signs of faithfulness. Yet God gives us reminders—signposts—to point us back to His power and provision. Whether it's a miraculous provision, a home, a breakthrough, or a season where His hand carried us, these markers strengthen our faith and guide future generations. In the middle of uncertainty, we are called to remember, to mark God's faithfulness, and to trust that He is leading us toward His promises.

Life is a miracle; no one has been able to create a single, reproducing cell of life. Yet life is too cheap in our world today. In this message, Pastor Lutzer demonstrates how we can commit murder in God's eyes just by our mouth or by neglect. Yet God says that human life is valuable because He gives it. 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. 

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.  

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. 

In this episode we continue our sermon series, Summer in the Sand: learning from wilderness journeys in the Bible. For this sermon we will move to the sandy wilderness near the city of Nineveh where the Old Testament prophet Jonah, still recovering from his traumatic fishing story, contemplates his next move.  God had called the prophet Jonah to preach a message of repentance to the city of Nineveh, a place filled with people he deeply despised. Jonah resisted, not because he feared failure, but because he feared success—he knew that if the Ninevites repented, God would show them mercy, and that thought was unbearable to him. Yet God's lesson to Jonah was clear: His love and compassion extend to all people, even those we consider enemies. Jonah's story confronts us with a tough question—do we struggle with the same problem? Is it difficult for us to love those who have wronged us, even when God's heart is for their redemption? If God loves our enemies enough to pursue them with grace, shouldn't we at least be willing to do the same? This is a difficult teaching, but one that could radically transform your faith. Take a few minutes and check out Jonah chapter four and see what God wants you to do.

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. 

Ministry is often lonely and discouraging, and Paul's journey to Corinth was no exception. Yet God surrounded him with community—old friends, new companions, and faithful provision. When results seem scarce and resistance is strong, we find our greatest encouragement not in outcomes, but in faithfulness to our calling. Be reminded today: your responsibility is obedience, and God handles the rest.

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 192I Have A Function God Would Have Me Fill.It is your Father's holy Will that you complete Himself, and that your Self shall be His sacred Son, forever pure as He, of Love created and in love preserved, extending love, creating in its Name, forever one with God and with your Self. Yet what can such a function mean within a world of envy, hatred and attack?Therefore, you have a function in the world in its own terms. For who can understand a language far beyond his simple grasp? Forgiveness represents your function here. It is not God's creation, for it is the means by which untruth can be undone. And who would pardon Heaven? Yet on earth, you need the means to let illusions go. Creation merely waits for your return to be acknowledged, not to be complete.Creation cannot even be conceived of in the world. It has no meaning here. Forgiveness is the closest it can come to earth. For being Heaven-born, it has no form at all. Yet God created One Who has the power to translate in form the wholly formless. What He makes are dreams, but of a kind so close to waking that the light of day already shines in them, and eyes already opening behold the joyful sights their offerings contain.Forgiveness gently looks upon all things unknown in Heaven, sees them disappear, and leaves the world a clean and unmarked slate on which the Word of God can now replace the senseless symbols written there before. Forgiveness is the means by which the fear of death is overcome, because it holds no fierce attraction now and guilt is gone. Forgiveness lets the body be perceived as what it is; a simple teaching aid, to be laid by when learning is complete, but hardly changing him who learns at all.The mind without the body cannot make mistakes. It cannot think that it will die, nor be the prey of merciless attack. Anger becomes impossible, and where is terror then? What fears could still assail those who have lost the source of all attack, the core of anguish and the seat of fear? Only forgiveness can relieve the mind of thinking that the body is its home. Only forgiveness can restore the peace that God intended for His holy Son. Only forgiveness can persuade the Son to look again upon his holiness.With anger gone, you will indeed perceive that, for Christ's vision and the gift of sight, no sacrifice was asked, and only pain was lifted from a sick and tortured mind. Is this unwelcome? Is it to be feared? Or is it to be hoped for, met with thanks and joyously accepted? We are one, and therefore give up nothing. But we have indeed been given everything by God.Yet do we need forgiveness to perceive that this is so. Without its kindly light we grope in darkness, using reason but to justify our rage and our attack. Our understanding is so limited that what we think we understand is but confusion born of error. We are lost in mists of shifting dreams and fearful thoughts, our eyes shut tight against the light; our minds engaged in worshipping what is not there.Who can be born again in Christ but him who has forgiven everyone he sees or thinks of or imagines? Who could be set free while he imprisons anyone? A jailer is not free, for he is bound together with his prisoner. He must be sure that he does not escape, and so he spends his time in keeping watch on him. The bars that limit him become the world in which his jailer lives, along with him. And it is on his freedom that the way to liberty depends for both of them.Therefore, hold no one prisoner. Release instead of bind, for thus are you made free. The way is simple. Every time you feel a stab of anger, realize you hold a sword above your head. And it will fall or be averted as you choose to be condemned or free. Thus does each one who seems to tempt you to be angry represent your savior from the prison house of death. And so you owe him thanks instead of pain.Be merciful today. The Son of God deserves your mercy. It is he who asks that you accept the way to freedom now. Deny him not. His Father's Love for him belongs to you. Your function here on earth is only to forgive him, that you may accept him back as your Identity. He is as God created him. And you are what he is. Forgive him now his sins, and you will see that you are one with him.- 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.  

The profound truth found in Jonah 3:1—"the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time"—serves as the foundation for a transformative message about God's relentless grace. When Jonah ran from God's call, was thrown overboard, and spent three days in a fish's belly, most would assume his opportunity was lost forever. Yet God's word returned, demonstrating a powerful reality: our God doesn't just call us; He calls us back.This message explores the beautiful paradox of divine second chances through biblical examples from Genesis to Revelation. Adam and Eve, Moses, David, Rahab, Zacchaeus, Peter, Thomas—all ordinary people who failed spectacularly yet experienced God's extraordinary restoration. Their stories mirror our own journeys of failure and redemption, reminding us that God's grace continues long after our initial salvation.The Ninevites' response reveals another crucial spiritual distinction—they didn't merely believe in God's existence; they believed God Himself. Their king stepped down from his throne, modeling the surrender required when we remove ourselves from the control center of our lives. True repentance isn't simply feeling remorse; it's a deliberate two-step process of turning from sin and turning toward God. When they repented, God immediately relented, showing compassion without demanding proof or perfection.What is God trying to show you again? Perhaps it's a sin He's saving you from or an opportunity He's calling you to. Whatever it is, remember that His word comes back repeatedly. His grace isn't conditional on your performance but flows from His unchanging character. No matter how far you've run or how badly you've failed, God's love never runs out.Ready to experience the freedom of second chances? Remember: don't doubt in the dark what God spoke to you in the light. His grace is greater than your greatest sin, and He actively longs to show you compassion. The question isn't whether God will give you another chance—it's whether you'll embrace it when His word comes to you again.Support the showMade a decision to follow Jesus? We want to know about it! Fill out our connect card here: https://local.churchcenter.com/people/forms/115766Thank you for your generosity. For information on how to give, visit https://localvineyard.church/give.

Ever encountered antagonism to your faith? Sometimes it's people we barely know. Other times, walls go up between people who live under the same roof. Or perhaps you're still seeking; some people are really helpful in the process, and others...not so much. The Apostle Paul often faced hostile audiences. Yet God used him to make a world-reverberating difference that is still being felt today. Discover strategies that can apply even today to build bridges and tear down walls.

Welcome to Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for July 5, 2025. Today's meditation on Psalm 1:4–6, titled “The Wicked Shall Not Stand,” contrasts the fate of the righteous and the wicked. While those rooted in God's Word flourish like a fruitful tree, the wicked are like chaff blown away by the wind, with no foundation or endurance before God's judgment. Scripture warns that those who reject the Lord cannot stand among the righteous, for their path leads to destruction. Yet God knows the way of the righteous — those redeemed by Christ, rooted in His grace, and preserved by His mercy. Find encouragement to hold firm to Christ, whose saving work secures your place in God's congregation forever.

Some of us learn things the easy way, some of us learn things the hard way. Unfortunately, the children of Israel seemed to learn some lessons the hard way. Yet God was patient with them and forgave them again and again. Year A Quarter 3 Week 27All Bible verses are from the NKJVFind the Lessons Here: https://mybiblefirst.org/?module=products&func=product&id2=25Connect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesus

Some of us learn things the easy way, some of us learn things the hard way. Unfortunately, the children of Israel seemed to learn some lessons the hard way. Yet God was patient with them and forgave them again and again. Year A Quarter 3 Week 27All Bible verses are from the NKJVFind the Lessons Here: https://mybiblefirst.org/?module=products&func=product&id2=25Connect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesus

Some of us learn things the easy way, some of us learn things the hard way. Unfortunately, the children of Israel seemed to learn some lessons the hard way. Yet God was patient with them and forgave them again and again. Year A Quarter 3 Week 27All Bible verses are from the NKJVFind the Lessons Here: https://mybiblefirst.org/?module=products&func=product&id2=25Connect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesus

Some of us learn things the easy way, some of us learn things the hard way. Unfortunately, the children of Israel seemed to learn some lessons the hard way. Yet God was patient with them and forgave them again and again. Year A Quarter 3 Week 27All Bible verses are from the NKJVFind the Lessons Here: https://mybiblefirst.org/?module=products&func=product&id2=25Connect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesus

Send us a textThe ancient saying "beggars can't be choosers" takes on profound meaning when applied to salvation. What begins as a simple proverb transforms into a powerful theological framework revealing our spiritual bankruptcy and God's sovereign grace.Our journey through 1 Samuel 2:8 uncovers a vivid picture of salvation: "He raises up the poor out of the dust and lifts up the beggar from the dunghill to set them among princes and to make them inherit the throne of glory." This verse lays bare the complete transformation God works in the lives of believers.The imagery is striking—dust representing our lowly state, mortality, and spiritual poverty. When someone in biblical times grieved, they would throw dust on themselves as an expression of mourning and humility. The dunghill symbolizes our filth and corruption, the place where spiritually bankrupt humanity sits, unable to extract ourselves. Yet God reaches directly into this filth to pull us out.What emerges clearly is that salvation doesn't begin with human initiative but with divine action. God is the first cause of salvation, contrary to popular belief that humans initiate their salvation through decision or will. We cannot lift ourselves from spiritual poverty; we can only receive what God has done. Like true beggars, we bring nothing to the transaction but our need.The most beautiful part comes next—God sets former beggars "among princes" and makes them "inherit the throne of glory." Those who begin in dust are elevated to royal status, experiencing a complete reversal of their condition. We become part of God's kingdom as priests and kings, sharing in His glory despite our humble origins.Have you recognized your spiritual bankruptcy? Until we see ourselves as poor beggars sitting in dust and filth, we cannot experience God's lifting power. When we acknowledge we have nothing to offer, He transforms us from dust-dwellers to throne-inheritors through His amazing grace.Support the show

Some of us learn things the easy way, some of us learn things the hard way. Unfortunately, the children of Israel seemed to learn some lessons the hard way. Yet God was patient with them and forgave them again and again. Year A Quarter 3 Week 27All Bible verses are from the NKJVFind the Lessons Here: https://mybiblefirst.org/?module=products&func=product&id2=25Connect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesus

Some of us learn things the easy way, some of us learn things the hard way. Unfortunately, the children of Israel seemed to learn some lessons the hard way. Yet God was patient with them and forgave them again and again. Year A Quarter 3 Week 27All Bible verses are from the NKJVFind the Lessons Here: https://mybiblefirst.org/?module=products&func=product&id2=25Connect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesus

This is message 18 in The Power of God's Name Ezekiel 20:7-44 God's people had polluted His name through idolatry, rebellion, and hypocrisy, dragging His reputation through the dust by how they lived. Yet God, for the sake of His name, showed mercy. He corrected, He chastened, and He promised restoration, not because they were worthy but because His name is holy and cannot be left in reproach. His purpose was not only to preserve His people but to sanctify His name in their hearts and before the nations. Don't forget to download our app for more from the Riverview Baptist Church. http://onelink.to/rbcapp Find more at https://riverviewbc.com/ Donate through Pushpay https://pushpay.com/pay/riverviewbc

Fasting is one of the more mysterious aspects of walking with God. Yet God gives us clear instructions about what a true fast looks like, and it's probably not what we'd expect. Today we look at Isaiah 58 which unpacks God's clear purposes for this important aspect of spiritual life. Join us! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    When you think of the spiritual discipline of fasting, what comes to mind? Have you ever fasted? If so, why? What for? How did you do it?  2.    According to verse 1, what is the general subject matter of this message for God's people? What is Isaiah to declare to the people?  3.    The podcast warned that verse 2 is tricky to understand unless we notice that word “as”. What does the word “as” indicate? Why is this key to understanding why (in verse 3) they are not seeing “results” from their spiritual deeds? 4.    These people were “fasting” but in the wrong way. Why were they fasting in verse 4? Why would that be a problem? How do people still fast in these ways today?  5.    What is the right way to “fast” in verses 5-7? Why is this true fasting? Given what you know about fasting, is this a surprise? In light of these teachings, would you say that fasting is to seek God to align your will with these pursuits? Why or why not?  6.    What promises does the Lord give in verses 9-11? How would you describe or characterize these blessings? Why does proper fasting ensure these kinds of blessings?  7.    In verse 12, what kind of society will this kind of fasting produce? How do you think “fasting” factors into this kind of reform?  8.    Looking over verse 13, what kind of attitude ought they to have for the sabbath? What does this kind of attitude demonstrate? How is this different from the predominant attitude they had towards the sabbath? When they have these kinds of attitudes, what kinds of blessings will they receive in verse 14?  9.    How has this chapter changed your understanding of fasting? What is its purpose? What does it accomplish?  10.    Think over the next few weeks in your life. Is there a time when you can apply these principles to your own life and “fast” in the way that we see in Isaiah 58? Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

(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. 

(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.