Podcasts about yet god

A spectator mindset has quietly crept into modern Christianity, leaving many believers watching the mission instead of participating. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar challenge listeners to examine whether they have become passive observers rather than active followers of Christ. The guys explain that there is no such thing as a spectator Christian because every believer has been called to make disciples, serve the church, and engage in the work of the gospel. Too often, Christians excuse themselves from evangelism or ministry, believing those responsibilities belong to someone else. The conversation emphasizes that following Jesus requires action, obedience, and a willingness to step onto the front lines of spiritual battle.The guys then explore how consumerism has shaped the way many people view the local church. Rather than seeing the church as a covenant community where believers serve one another, many approach it with the mindset of a customer evaluating a product. This perspective turns worship, fellowship, and discipleship into something to consume rather than something to contribute to. The guys explain that believers have been freed by the gospel not merely to attend church but to actively participate in God's unfolding story of grace.The conversation also addresses practical barriers that keep believers from engaging in ministry. Fear, social anxiety, comparison, and distraction often prevent Christians from sharing the gospel or using their gifts. The guys discuss how technology has weakened many everyday interactions that help people build confidence and form meaningful relationships. Yet God has uniquely equipped every believer with gifts and opportunities to serve. Rather than comparing themselves to others, Christians are called to faithfully use whatever gifts God has provided and to trust that every member of the body plays a necessary role.Finally, the guys focus on the Holy Spirit's empowering work and the practical steps believers can take to become more active in their faith. The same Spirit who empowered the early church continues to guide, strengthen, and equip believers today. The guys encourage listeners to put down distractions, invest their time intentionally, arrive ready to serve, and look for opportunities to share the gospel. In the end, the Christian life is not about watching others live for Christ but about actively participating in His mission, trusting that God uses ordinary obedience to accomplish extraordinary things.Send us Fan MailThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Many of us spend years believing we are not enough. We focus on our mistakes, replay our failures, and hold ourselves to standards we would never impose on those we love or even on strangers. Yet God does not define us by our worst moments, our shortcomings, or the labels we have accepted along the way. His love is patient, compassionate, forgiving, and unconditional. When we begin to see ourselves through God’s eyes, we can release self-judgment and embrace the truth of who we were created to be. I will share how learning to love ourselves like God loves us can transform our relationship with ourselves, deepen our faith, and bring greater peace, purpose, and joy into our lives. Now you can listen commercial free at your leisure…Click here and let's grow together: Lillian McDermott, Loving Yourself Like God Loves You If you love this podcast episode, share it with a friend. The Lillian McDermott Radio Show/Classroom ~ When You Need a Friend… PREMIERE:  Telegram, Facebook, YouTube, WhenYouNeedaFriend.com SUBSCRIBE, LIKE, & FOLLOW:    Facebook, Instagram, X, Website, Odysee, BitChute, YouTube! LISTEN:  Amazon Podcast, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, Spotify, Pandora, TuneIn, iHeartRadio! CALL or TEXT: 407-373-5959 “You can take a pill, or You can take Responsibility!” ®

God is a promise-keeping God.From the moment sin entered the world, God began unfolding a plan to rescue and redeem humanity. In this message, we continue our journey Through the Bible by exploring the life of Abraham and the covenant that would shape the rest of Scripture.Using passages from Genesis 12-37 and Galatians 3, we explore:• The three promises God made to Abraham• What a biblical covenant really means• Why faith is trusting God even when you can't see the outcome• How God's promises survived Abraham's failures• The stories of Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph• Why God's timeline is often longer than our plans• How the covenant with Abraham points to Jesus• What God's promises mean for believers todayThis message isn't just about Abraham's story.It's about discovering that God's faithfulness is greater than our mistakes.Abraham lied.He doubted.He got impatient.Yet God remained faithful to every promise He made.“Abraham believed the Lord, and He credited it to him as righteousness.” — Genesis 15:6God's promises are bigger than our mistakes.God's timeline is longer than our plans.God's purpose is greater than our understanding.

THIS IS A SEASON TO TRUST GOD • Sunday Service To give: www.ToddCoconato.com/give Website: www.PastorTodd.org The Freedom Found in Surrender One of the greatest battles every believer faces is the battle for trust. We want answers. We want timelines. We want clarity. We want to know how everything is going to work out. Yet God often calls us to walk by faith before He reveals the full picture. I believe we are in a season where the Lord is teaching His people to trust Him at a deeper level than ever before. Not trust in circumstances. Not trust in governments. Not trust in our own understanding. But trust in Him. The beautiful reality is that trust produces freedom. When you truly trust God, you stop carrying burdens you were never designed to carry. Point 1: Trust Releases Divine Direction Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” Point 2: Trust Removes Anxiety Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV) “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Point 3: Trust Allows God to Carry the Weight Psalm 55:22 (NKJV) “Cast your burden on the Lord, And He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.” Point 4: Trust Produces Stability Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV) “You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You.” Point 5: Trust Unlocks God's Strength Isaiah 40:31 (NKJV) “But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles.” Point 6: Trust Frees Us from Fear Psalm 56:3-4 (NKJV) “Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God I will praise His word, In God I have put my trust; I will not fear.” Point 7: Trust Opens the Door to God's Provision Matthew 6:31-33 (NKJV) “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?' or ‘What shall we drink?' or ‘What shall we wear?'… But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Point 8: Trust Is Developed Through Trials Romans 5:3-5 (NKJV) “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Point 9: Trust Brings Rest Hebrews 4:9-10 (NKJV) “There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His.” Point 10: Trust Leads to Freedom John 8:31-32 (NKJV) “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” Closing I believe one of the greatest invitations God is extending to His people right now is simple: Trust Me. Trust Me with your future. Trust Me with your family. Trust Me with your finances. Trust Me with your ministry. Trust Me with the unanswered questions. Trust Me with the things you cannot fix. The enemy wants you burdened, worried, anxious, and exhausted. But Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” There is incredible freedom available right now. Freedom from fear. Freedom from striving. Freedom from anxiety. Freedom from needing to control everything. The more you trust God, the more freedom you will experience. And perhaps the greatest lesson you'll ever learn is this: You don't have to carry what God has already promised to carry for you. Trust Him. He's faithful. He's good. And He's already working on your behalf.  

In this third message of the After the Fall series, Pastor R. Bret Walker explores God's astonishing promise to Abraham and Sarah—an elderly couple who laugh at the idea of bearing a child. Yet God responds, “Is anything too hard for the LORD?” Through this encounter at the oaks of Mamre, Pastor Walker highlights God's faithfulness, His perfect timing, and His power to accomplish what seems impossible. This sermon invites listeners to confront their doubts, remember God's past faithfulness, and trust that His promises—like Isaac, the son of promise—come by His power, not human effort. #GuerrillaChristianity #PastorRBretWalker #AfterTheFallSeries #SonOfPromise #Genesis18 #FaithOverFear #NothingTooHardForGod #AbrahamAndSarah #BiblicalFaith #ChristianPodcast

Send us your feedback — we're listeningZephaniah 3:17 — You Are More Loved Than You Realise Recorded live from London, England — where faith meets the world in daily prayer and global hope. Chicago • Lagos • São Paulo • Christchurch • Singapore LOVE • BELONGING • REASSURANCE midday prayer for God's love • Christian encouragement for difficult days • prayer for feeling valued and accepted • finding comfort in God's presence Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV) “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” There are moments when people begin to question their value. Life can be demanding, and disappointments can leave us feeling overlooked, unimportant, or forgotten. Sometimes we become so aware of our weaknesses that we struggle to remember how God sees us. Many people carry that burden quietly. The world often measures people by achievement, success, appearance, or performance. When those things feel uncertain, self-worth can become fragile. Yet God's love does not operate according to human measurements. His love is not earned through perfection, and His care is not dependent upon our performance. Zephaniah paints one of the most beautiful pictures in Scripture. The Lord is not distant from His people. He is present with them. He delights in them. He rejoices over them. Imagine that for a moment. The God who created heaven and earth looks upon His children with love, compassion, and delight. When we truly understand that truth, it begins to change how we see ourselves. We are not abandoned. We are not forgotten. We are not overlooked. We are deeply loved by God. Father, thank You that Your love remains constant even when my feelings change. Thank You that my worth is found in You and not in the opinions of others. Jesus, help me see myself through Your eyes today. Remind me that I am loved, accepted, and welcomed by Your grace. When self-doubt appears, help me stand securely in Your love. Holy Spirit, fill my heart with confidence and peace. Replace insecurity with assurance, loneliness with belonging, and fear with trust. Help me rest in the truth that I am deeply loved by God. Across the world, from Chicago to Lagos, from São Paulo to Christchurch and Singapore, may lonely hearts discover belonging, discouraged souls receive reassurance, and every listener experience the joy of God's unfailing love. Jesús, gracias porque Tu amor nunca falla. Jesus, obrigado porque o Teu amor nunca falha. Jesus, salamat dahil hindi nagkukulang ang Iyong pag-ibig. Father, thank You that I am loved more than I realise. Amen. Zephaniah 3 prayer, prayer for God's love, Christian encouragement, God's unfailing love, midday prayer, daily prayer, Christian devotion, finding hope in God midday prayer for God's love, Christian encouragement for difficult days, prayer for feeling valued and accepted, finding comfort in God's presenceSupport the showDaily Prayer with Reverend Ben Cooper now reaches 185 countries and 3,012 cities worldwide through the Global Blend Radio network.This is a listener-funded global ministry. If these daily prayers strengthen your faith or help you through difficult seasons, would you consider becoming a monthly prayer partner for just £3 per month?Your support enables us to continue recording, hosting, and broadcasting daily biblical encouragement across the nations — keeping this ministry free and accessible to everyone who needs it.You can support today at GlobalBlendRadio.comTogether, we can keep prayer moving across the world.To submit a prayer request or connect with our global prayer community, visit DailyPrayer.ukBuy me a Coffee 

This powerful exploration of burnout and exhaustion takes us deep into the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19, revealing how even our greatest spiritual victories can leave us depleted. We discover that burnout is not simply about being tired, but about carrying too much, moving too fast, and doing it all alone. The message challenges our hustle culture mentality, reminding us that exhaustion can strike at the mountaintop just as easily as in the valley. Elijah's experience after his incredible victory over 850 prophets of Baal shows us that burnout blurs our vision, making us forget God's recent provision and protection. The story reveals four critical symptoms of burnout: physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion; hopelessness; bitterness; and feelings of uselessness. Yet God's response to Elijah's desperation offers us hope: He provides rest, food, and His gentle presence. We learn that true Sabbath is not merely doing nothing, but actively trusting God, releasing control, and finding delight in worship. The Hebrew concept of Sabbath teaches us to cease striving and believe that God can do more with six days than we can with seven. This is an invitation to examine our own lives and recognize where we are living beyond our design, carrying burdens we were never meant to bear alone.

Even when God seems silent, He is still working behind the scenes. It's easy to believe God has forgotten you when your circumstances don't make sense, your prayers feel unanswered, or your life isn't going according to plan. Moses was born into oppression, hidden in a basket, raised in a palace, guilty of murder, and eventually living in obscurity in the wilderness. None of it seemed connected. None of it seemed purposeful. Yet God was using every chapter to prepare Moses for what was coming next. God's silence does not mean God's absence. About the Series: Life is full of questions we wish God would answer. Why did the diagnosis come? Why did the relationship end? Why did the opportunity disappear? Why does the waiting continue when we've prayed for so long? Most of us want explanations, but throughout Scripture, God often offers something different. Instead of revealing the entire plan, He invites us to trust Him one step at a time. The life of Moses is a powerful example of that kind of faith. From being born into slavery and raised in a palace to leading God's people through impossible circumstances, Moses repeatedly found himself in situations that didn't make sense. Yet through every season of uncertainty, God was present, faithful, and at work in ways Moses couldn't fully see. In this series, we'll follow Moses' journey and discover what it means to trust God's character when we don't understand His timing, His methods, or His plans. Because faith isn't trusting God when He explains Himself. Faith is trusting God when He doesn't. Join us as we learn that the most important question isn't, "Do I understand what God is doing?" but "Will I trust Him anyway?" This week's notes in the Bible app: https://www.bible.com/events/49625143 Pastor Sean Kelly | When God Doesn't Explain Himself | Exodus 1-2 CONNECT WITH US Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mpccgreenwood Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpccgreenwood Instagram: https://instagram.com/mpccgreenwood Website: https://mpcc.info/

"Not lagging behind in diligence" is more than a call to work harder, it's an invitation to faithfully serve the Lord with energy and purpose. Proverbs contrasts this kind of life with the sluggard: someone who loves comfort, makes excuses, and continually delays what God is calling them to do. Yet God's grace offers a better path: honest repentance, faithful obedience, and the joy of serving Him with diligence and fervor.

Relationships can be hard. We have broken relationships all around us because we are all so human.  Yet God shares with us His vision for a church living in unity as a family in Psalm 133.  There, David shares how sweet this experience can be. We will spend our time exploring the rich guidance scripture provides for addressing fractures in these relationships, so that we can experience Psalm 133 goodness more and more in our relationships. 

Send us your feedback — we're listeningJeremiah 29:11 — God Is Still Writing A Hopeful Future Recorded live from London, England — where faith meets the world in daily prayer and global hope. Chicago • Lagos • Singapore • Christchurch • Tokyo HOPE • FUTURE • ENCOURAGEMENT midday prayer for hope and direction • Christian encouragement for uncertain seasons • trusting God with the future • finding renewed hope in Christ Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) “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.” There are moments when people begin to wonder whether their best days are behind them. Disappointments can leave questions. Delays can create frustration. Unanswered prayers can sometimes make the future appear uncertain or unclear. When life does not unfold as expected, hope can quietly become harder to hold onto. Many people understand that feeling. The people who first received Jeremiah's words were living through uncertainty themselves. Their circumstances were difficult, and the future seemed unclear. Yet God spoke words of hope into that situation. He reminded them that their story was not finished and that His plans extended beyond what they could presently see. That same truth remains powerful today. We may not understand every chapter while we are living through it, but God sees the whole story. What feels delayed to us is never forgotten by Him. What feels uncertain to us remains fully known to Him. The Lord is still working, still guiding, and still preparing good things beyond what we can presently imagine. Father, thank You that my future is safely held in Your hands. Thank You that Your plans are greater than my fears and Your wisdom is greater than my understanding. Jesus, when I become discouraged or impatient, help me trust You more deeply. Remind me that You are working even when I cannot see immediate results. Help me place my future into Your care and walk forward with hope. Holy Spirit, renew my expectation today. Replace discouragement with confidence, uncertainty with trust, and fear with hope. Help me remember that God's faithfulness continues beyond every season I face. Across the world, from Chicago to Lagos, from Singapore to Christchurch and Tokyo, may discouraged hearts discover renewed hope, uncertain minds find fresh confidence, and every listener experience the assurance that God is still writing a hopeful future. Jesús, gracias porque mi futuro está seguro en Ti. Jesus, obrigado porque o meu futuro está seguro em Ti. Jesus, salamat dahil nasa Iyong mga kamay ang aking kinabukasan. Father, thank You that my story is still unfolding in Your care. Amen. Jeremiah 29 prayer, prayer for hope, Christian encouragement, trusting God with the future, midday prayer, daily prayer, hope and purpose, Christian devotion midday prayer for hope and direction, Christian encouragement for uncertain seasons, trusting God with the future, finding renewed hope in ChristSupport the showDaily Prayer with Reverend Ben Cooper now reaches 185 countries and 3,012 cities worldwide through the Global Blend Radio network.This is a listener-funded global ministry. If these daily prayers strengthen your faith or help you through difficult seasons, would you consider becoming a monthly prayer partner for just £3 per month?Your support enables us to continue recording, hosting, and broadcasting daily biblical encouragement across the nations — keeping this ministry free and accessible to everyone who needs it.You can support today at GlobalBlendRadio.comTogether, we can keep prayer moving across the world.To submit a prayer request or connect with our global prayer community, visit DailyPrayer.ukBuy me a Coffee 

When we think about difficult relationships, especially with our parents, God invites us to view them through the lens of His grace and redemption. Honoring a father does not mean ignoring pain, excusing harmful actions, or pretending wounds do not exist. Instead, it means trusting God to bring healing, justice, and transformation in ways only He can. Highlights: God cares about both the wounds we carry and the people who have caused them Forgiveness does not mean ignoring pain, excusing wrongdoing, or removing healthy boundaries God’s grace extends to every person, including those who have deeply failed others We can trust God to bring healing and transformation where we cannot Honoring others begins with allowing God to shape our hearts through compassion and forgiveness Join the Conversation Have you experienced a time when God reminded you that He saw your pain, needs, or circumstances? How does knowing that God is El Roi—the God who sees you—change the way you approach difficult seasons? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: No Father Left Behind By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers.” - Proverbs 30:11 Nowadays, some adult children believe they are justified in dismissing their earthly fathers, seeing it as a personal matter between the two of them and believing God is okay with whatever they decide to do. But nothing could be further from the truth, because God cares not only for us but for our fathers, too. Like the Marines’ unofficial slogan of leaving no man behind, God doesn’t leave fathers behind either, even in their failures and sins. Sadly, many individuals have valid reasons for turning their backs on their fathers. Yet God calls us to follow His lead in responding to the pain in our lives, because too many fathers have fallen by the wayside and need His help, mercy, and redemption. Tragically, some fathers have been drunkards, drug users, criminals, murderers, prisoners, abusers, and more. Still, God holds children accountable for their attitudes toward their fathers because it’s a matter of the heart—the kind of issue that, if left unchecked, can lead to lifelong sorrow. Regardless of a father’s sin, God doesn’t write fathers off or give children permission to do the same. Instead, He calls us to forgiveness and to trust Him to work in our fathers’ lives. Trusting God with the Pain We can trust God with our pain, too, because He isn’t going to ask us to embrace or entrust ourselves to fathers who aren’t trustworthy, or to pretend they didn’t hurt us. He isn’t asking us to say or believe things about our fathers that aren’t true, or to overlook their sins. But He also doesn’t support us disowning, abandoning, or labeling them as toxic and unworthy of redemption. Likewise, God doesn’t give us permission to punish, correct, dishonor, or treat them disrespectfully, even when we believe they deserve it. This is often a hard pill to swallow for those who’ve lived life with a derelict dad. Sometimes God Asks More of Us Along with leading us to forgive our fathers, sometimes God asks more of us when it comes to dealing with our dads. Author and speaker Joyce Meyer’s dad sexually abused her while she was growing up, giving her every earthly reason to walk away from him and have nothing to do with him for the rest of her life. Yet, unbelievably, God called her to provide for and care for her abusive father in his old age—something she resisted at first, shocked that a holy and just God would ever ask her to do. After all, why would a loving God call her to care for a father who had so cruelly abused and mistreated her? He certainly didn’t deserve her kindness and generosity. Still, God didn’t let her off the hook. He asked her to do what seemed impossible. Choosing to live in obedience to Him rather than remain bound by her pain, Meyer took on the responsibility. Remarkably, through her kindness and generosity, her father came to know the Lord before passing away. Does God Love Fallen Fathers? So one has to ask: Does God love the godless fathers who have failed miserably and caused unimaginable and unspeakable wounds in the lives of their children and others? Some of us, even as Christians, are ready to throw in the towel when it comes to caring about deeply flawed dads, believing they don’t deserve to receive God’s love. But we are mistaken if we see ourselves as more deserving of His love than they are. The Apostle Paul addresses this in 1 Corinthians 6:9-11: “Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” If we see ourselves as more deserving of receiving God’s forgiveness and love than faithless fathers, then we don’t truly understand the sin nature we are all born with. We all enter life undeserving of God’s grace and in desperate need of a perfect, sinless Savior to redeem us. Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Intersecting Faith & Life: If you’re trying to come to terms with a father who failed you, ask God to help you forgive him and give you a heart of compassion toward him. Trust Him to bring healing to your heart and to work in your father’s life in ways only He can. Further Reading:How to Offer Your Dad Forgiveness this Father’s Day Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Send us your feedback — we're listeningJoshua 1:9 — Take The Next Step, God Is Already There Recorded live from London, England — where faith meets the world in daily prayer and global hope. Houston • Lagos • Singapore • Wellington • Tokyo COURAGE • FAITH • FORWARD MOVEMENT Christian prayer for courage today • trusting God with the next step • prayer for uncertain seasons • moving forward with faith in Christ Joshua 1:9 (NIV) “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” There are times when the hardest part of any journey is not the destination. It is taking the next step. We can see possibilities ahead, yet uncertainty keeps us standing still. Questions begin to surface. What if things do not work out? What if I fail? What if I make the wrong decision? Fear has a way of convincing us that staying where we are feels safer than moving forward. Many people are standing at that place today. Joshua understood what it meant to face an uncertain future. A new chapter was beginning, responsibilities were increasing, and challenges lay ahead. Yet God's message to him was not centred on guarantees about circumstances. It was centred on God's presence. The Lord would go with him wherever he travelled. The confidence was not in Joshua's ability but in God's faithfulness. That same promise speaks to us today. We do not need to know every detail about the road ahead before we take the next step. We do not need complete certainty before we trust God. Faith often moves forward while questions still remain. Courage is not the absence of fear. Courage is choosing to trust God in the middle of it. Father, thank You that You know the path before me. Thank You that nothing about my future surprises You and that Your faithfulness remains constant. Jesus, help me take the next step You are placing before me. When fear tries to hold me back, remind me that You are already ahead of me. Give me courage to trust You more deeply and confidence to follow where You lead. Holy Spirit, fill me with strength, wisdom, and peace today. Help me move forward with faith rather than hesitation. Teach me to trust God's presence more than my fears and God's promises more than my doubts. Across the world, from Houston to Lagos, from Singapore to Wellington and Tokyo, may hesitant hearts discover courage, fearful minds find confidence, and every listener experience the assurance that God walks beside them. Jesús, ayúdame a dar el siguiente paso con fe. Jesus, ajuda-me a dar o próximo passo com fé. Jesus, tulungan Mo akong sumulong nang may pananampalataya. Father, thank You that You go before me. Amen. Joshua 1 prayer, prayer for courage, Christian encouragement, trusting God, prayer for confidence, daily prayer, faith and courage, Christian devotion Christian prayer for courage today, trusting God with the next step, prayer for uncertain seasons, moving forward with faith in ChristSupport the showDaily Prayer with Reverend Ben Cooper now reaches 185 countries and 3,012 cities worldwide through the Global Blend Radio network.This is a listener-funded global ministry. If these daily prayers strengthen your faith or help you through difficult seasons, would you consider becoming a monthly prayer partner for just £3 per month?Your support enables us to continue recording, hosting, and broadcasting daily biblical encouragement across the nations — keeping this ministry free and accessible to everyone who needs it.You can support today at GlobalBlendRadio.comTogether, we can keep prayer moving across the world.To submit a prayer request or connect with our global prayer community, visit DailyPrayer.ukBuy me a Coffee 

In 2 Samuel 11, David's rise to power and ascendancy to the throne of Israel are both marked and marred by a devastating moral failure.  The chapter opens with a popular and victorious king resting in his palace, but it closes with that same king stained by sin after committing adultery with the wife of one of his loyal soldiers.  In 2 Samuel 12, however, the sad saga begins to shift as God adds footnotes to a father's failure, reminding us that failure is not final.  Dr. T. D. Stubblefield believes this truth is encouraging and vital for every father who can acknowledge, “I have not been perfect.  I have not always made the right decisions or choices.”  Yet God has remained faithful, footnoting every failure with His grace and mercy". 

Send us your feedback — we're listeningJohn 10:10 — God Still Has More Life Ahead For You Recorded live from London, England — where faith meets the world in daily prayer and global hope. Chicago • Lagos • Singapore • Auckland • Tokyo PURPOSE • HOPE • DIRECTION midday prayer for purpose and hope • Christian encouragement for difficult seasons • finding renewed direction through Christ • God's plans for your life John 10:10 (NIV) “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” There are seasons when life can begin to feel smaller than it once did. Responsibilities take over. Routines become familiar. Difficult experiences can quietly reduce our expectations. Sometimes people reach a point where they begin to wonder whether there is anything more ahead. They continue moving forward, but deep inside they are asking questions about purpose, direction, and hope. Many people carry those questions quietly. Jesus spoke about life in a way that lifted people's eyes beyond survival. He did not come simply to help people endure their days. He came to bring life in its fullness. That does not mean a life free from challenges or disappointments. It means a life filled with His presence, His purpose, and His transforming grace. There are moments when circumstances convince us that our best days are behind us. Yet God often works in seasons that appear ordinary. New opportunities, renewed vision, deeper faith, and unexpected blessings frequently begin in places that seem small and unnoticed. The Lord is able to breathe fresh purpose into hearts that have grown discouraged. Father, thank You that my story is still being written. Thank You that You continue to work in ways I cannot always see and that Your purposes remain greater than my limitations. Jesus, help me lift my eyes beyond today's pressures and see the hope You are placing before me. Renew my vision, strengthen my faith, and remind me that You still have good things prepared ahead. Holy Spirit, awaken fresh expectation within me today. Help me recognise opportunities to grow, serve, and follow where God is leading. Replace discouragement with hope and uncertainty with renewed confidence. Across the world, from Chicago to Lagos, from Singapore to Auckland and Tokyo, may discouraged hearts discover renewed purpose, weary souls find fresh hope, and every listener experience the fullness of life that Jesus offers. Jesús, gracias por el propósito que tienes para mí. Jesus, obrigado pelo propósito que tens para mim. Jesus, salamat sa layunin Mo para sa buhay ko. Father, thank You that there is still more ahead. Amen. John 10 prayer, prayer for purpose, Christian encouragement, finding hope in Christ, midday prayer, daily prayer, purpose and direction, Christian devotion midday prayer for purpose and hope, Christian encouragement for difficult seasons, finding renewed direction through Christ, God's plans for your lifeSupport the showDaily Prayer with Reverend Ben Cooper now reaches 185 countries and 3,012 cities worldwide through the Global Blend Radio network.This is a listener-funded global ministry. If these daily prayers strengthen your faith or help you through difficult seasons, would you consider becoming a monthly prayer partner for just £3 per month?Your support enables us to continue recording, hosting, and broadcasting daily biblical encouragement across the nations — keeping this ministry free and accessible to everyone who needs it.You can support today at GlobalBlendRadio.comTogether, we can keep prayer moving across the world.To submit a prayer request or connect with our global prayer community, visit DailyPrayer.ukBuy me a Coffee 

The Holy Spirit Is Speaking to You John 16:13-15 "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, because he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine. For this reason, I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.” This verse talks about the Holy Spirit, the gift the Lord sent us when Jesus went to heaven. It tells us that the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Truth and that He will guide us into all truth. This is important because it reminds us that we can trust what we hear from the Holy Spirit. He is not speaking on His own; He is sharing what He hears from the Father. The verse also says He will declare to us the things that are to come. This doesn't mean we will know everything that happens in our future. It means the Holy Spirit can prepare us for what is coming if we make time to listen to Him. We need to pay attention to what He says and not just hear it and let it go. Our prayer group sets aside time each week to listen quietly for the words of the Holy Spirit. We record these words and later discern what we believe the Lord is saying to our community. We then create a bookmark so everyone can remember the words and apply them to their lives. This is our most recent bookmark: “My call to each one of you is very personal. It is not a message for everyone. It is intimate, personal, all-loving, and all-consuming. From the beginning, I spoke, and my Word created new life. I speak again today through my holy Word to each of your hearts. I create new life. I renew, replenish, and fill you with grace and mercy that I wish you to share with others. I watch over you, my children. I break the sword of the enemy who would come against you. I will defend you in battle. I have sent you the power of the Spirit, and he will give you all that you need to do what you have been called to do. You are the anointing I send to the world. Be not afraid. I am with you. My Spirit will speak through you the words that I wish to say. When I say you can, don't tell me you can't. Smile that I sent you today.” These words were spoken over the course of a month. We receive many words each week, so the discernment team helps identify the key themes the Lord wants us to remember. There are four categories we look for: call, proclamation, promise, and directive. First, we look for the call. What is the Holy Spirit calling us to do? God has a plan for each of us, and the Holy Spirit often reveals that plan little by little. Are you taking time to listen to what God may be calling you to do? Next is proclamation. These are often "I am" statements where God tells us who He is and what He is doing. In the bookmark above, the Lord reminds us that He creates new life, renews us, replenishes us, and fills us with grace and mercy to share with others. The third category is promise. God still reminds us of His promises today. In this bookmark, He promises to watch over us, defend us in battle, break the sword of the enemy, and give us everything we need to fulfill our calling. We are not on our own. The Holy Spirit is with us. The final category is directive. What is God asking us to do? In the bookmark above, the Lord tells us not to be afraid. He reminds us that His Spirit will speak through us and give us the words we need. He also says something that really convicts me: “When I say you can, don't tell me you can't.” Isn't that exactly what we do sometimes? I know I do. When I feel the Lord calling me to do something outside my comfort zone, my first response is often, "I can't." Yet God created me. He knows me better than I know myself. Who am I to tell Him what I can and cannot do? Instead, I should be saying, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." The reason I wanted to share our discernment process today is because I hope it helps you recognize when the Holy Spirit is speaking to you. Now that you know some of the ways He communicates, maybe you will start recognizing His voice more often. Hearing the voice of the Lord is a gift from the Holy Spirit. Like any relationship, it grows when we spend time together. When we make time to listen, God speaks. I encourage you to write down what you hear from the Lord. I often look back through my prayer journals and am amazed at what God has said. Every time I do, I wonder why I don't do it more often. I hope this episode encourages you to pay a little more attention to the Holy Spirit's voice and the different ways He may be speaking to you. He is speaking, and His words come straight from the heart of the Father. Dear Heavenly Father, I ask you to bless all those listening to this episode today. Lord, we pray that we can all hear your voice. We pray that it brings fruit into our lives. Help us not only hear what you are saying but remember it and put it into action. We love you, Lord, and we ask all of this in accordance with your will and in Jesus' holy name, Amen! Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. If you've been feeling distant from God lately, but you're not sure why, I created a free quiz called "What's Quietly Blocking Your Connection With God?" In just a few minutes, you'll discover one of four common obstacles that may be affecting your relationship with God. At the end, you'll receive a personalized result, a short podcast episode, and a mentoring replay chosen specifically for your result. CLICK HERE to take the quiz. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.  Remember, Jesus loves you, and so do I! Have a blessed day Today's Word from the Lord is, “I planned ahead of your coming into this world. I saw every tear you ever shed. I have a picture of every time you laughed. I have a scrapbook for each of you. Yet, yet, you worry and fret. And though you come to me, you still wonder if I hear or see or know or care. My children, do you care for your children?”  www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

Send us your feedback — we're listeningJeremiah 29:11 — There Is Still A Future Ahead Of You Recorded live from London, England — where faith meets the world in daily prayer and global hope. Atlanta • Lagos • Singapore • Christchurch • Tokyo HOPE • PURPOSE • FUTURE Christian prayer for hope and encouragement • trusting God's plans for your future • prayer for difficult seasons • finding purpose through Christ Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) “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.” There are seasons in life when the future can feel unclear. Plans change. Doors close. Expectations do not always unfold as we imagined. Sometimes people look ahead and struggle to see where hope is supposed to come from. Questions about tomorrow can quietly become burdens carried today. Many people understand that feeling. Life has a way of presenting moments that seem unfinished. Dreams may take longer than expected. Prayers may appear unanswered. Circumstances may remain uncertain. Yet Scripture repeatedly reminds us that God is able to see far beyond the limitations of our present situation. What feels delayed to us is not forgotten by Him. Jeremiah delivered these words to people living in a difficult season. They were facing uncertainty and challenges they never expected. Yet God spoke hope into their future. He reminded them that their story was not over and that His purposes had not been cancelled. That same truth remains powerful today. Your current chapter is not the final chapter. God is still writing the story. His plans remain greater than your fears, stronger than your disappointments, and larger than the obstacles standing before you. Father, thank You that my future rests securely in Your hands. Thank You that even when I cannot see the road ahead clearly, You remain faithful and trustworthy. Jesus, help me trust Your plans when circumstances seem uncertain. When disappointment tries to steal my hope, remind me that You are still working. Strengthen my faith and help me keep looking forward with confidence. Holy Spirit, fill my heart with fresh expectation today. Help me believe that God is able to open new doors, create new opportunities, and bring purpose out of every season. Replace fear with hope and uncertainty with confidence in Your promises. Across the world, from Atlanta to Lagos, from Singapore to Christchurch and Tokyo, may discouraged hearts find renewed hope, uncertain minds discover fresh confidence, and every listener experience the assurance that God still holds the future. Jesús, confío mi futuro a Ti. Jesus, entrego o meu futuro a Ti. Jesus, ipinagkakatiwala ko sa Iyo ang aking kinabukasan. Father, thank You that my future is safe with You. Amen. Jeremiah 29 prayer, prayer for hope, Christian encouragement, trusting God for the future, prayer for difficult seasons, evening prayer, daily prayer, Christian devotion Christian prayer for hope and encouragement, trusting God's plans for your future, prayer for difficult seasons, finding purpose through ChristSupport the showDaily Prayer with Reverend Ben Cooper now reaches 185 countries and 3,012 cities worldwide through the Global Blend Radio network.This is a listener-funded global ministry. If these daily prayers strengthen your faith or help you through difficult seasons, would you consider becoming a monthly prayer partner for just £3 per month?Your support enables us to continue recording, hosting, and broadcasting daily biblical encouragement across the nations — keeping this ministry free and accessible to everyone who needs it.You can support today at GlobalBlendRadio.comTogether, we can keep prayer moving across the world.To submit a prayer request or connect with our global prayer community, visit DailyPrayer.ukBuy me a Coffee 

Proverbs 29:25 (ESV) - “The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.” In this episode of Daily Devotions, Pastor David Sumrall teaches about the danger of living with a fear of people. Solomon warns that fearing others becomes a trap, leading people to compromise their convictions, change their behavior to gain approval, and make decisions based on the opinions of others rather than the truth of God's Word. Pastor Sumrall explains that many people spend their lives trying to please everyone around them, fearing criticism, rejection, or what others might think. Yet God never intended us to be controlled by the expectations of people. Instead, believers are called to place their trust in the Lord, finding security in His approval rather than the approval of others. This Daily Devotion reminds us that freedom comes when we stop living for people's opinions and start living in confidence before God. ---- Don't forget to like, subscribe to Cathedral of Praise TV https://www.youtube.com/c/cathedralofpraiseTV/?sub_confirmation=1,and hit the bell icon

Send us your feedback — we're listeningPsalms 4:8 — Sleep Tonight Knowing God Is Watching Over You Recorded live from London, England — where faith meets the world in daily prayer and global hope. Nashville • Lagos • Singapore • Auckland • Tokyo SLEEP • PEACE • TRUST night prayer for peaceful sleep • Christian bedtime prayer • trusting God with tomorrow • prayer for anxiety and rest Psalm 4:8 (NIV) “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” As the day draws to a close, many people find that their bodies are tired but their minds are still busy. The responsibilities of the day may be finished, yet thoughts continue to move from one concern to another. Conversations are replayed. Questions remain unanswered. Tomorrow begins to arrive before tonight has even ended. Many people understand that struggle. The world becomes quieter, yet the mind can become louder. It is often during these moments that worries try to convince us that everything depends upon us. We can feel pressure to solve every problem, answer every question, and carry every responsibility. Yet God never asked us to carry tomorrow before tomorrow arrives. Psalm 4 offers a gentle reminder that true rest is found in the presence of God. David speaks of lying down in peace because his confidence is rooted in the Lord's care. His safety is not built upon perfect circumstances. His peace is not dependent upon having every answer. His confidence rests in the faithfulness of God. Father, thank You for carrying me through this day. Thank You for every blessing, every provision, every unseen protection, and every reminder of Your presence. Jesus, tonight I place this day into Your hands. I release the concerns I can do nothing about and the situations that remain unresolved. Help me trust that while I sleep, You continue to work, guide, and watch over my life. Holy Spirit, quiet every anxious thought and settle every restless feeling. Fill my heart with the peace of Christ. Help me rest deeply, knowing that I am loved, protected, and safely held in God's care. Across the world, from Nashville to Lagos, from Singapore to Auckland and Tokyo, may weary hearts find rest, anxious minds discover peace, and every listener experience the comfort of God's presence tonight. Jesús, descanso seguro en Tus manos. Jesus, descanso seguro nas Tuas mãos. Jesus, nagpapahinga ako nang ligtas sa Iyong pangangalaga. Father, thank You that I can sleep in peace because You are watching over me. Amen. Psalm 4 prayer, night prayer, Christian bedtime prayer, prayer for peaceful sleep, trusting God, prayer for anxiety, daily prayer, Christian devotion night prayer for peaceful sleep, Christian bedtime prayer, trusting God with tomorrow, prayer for anxiety and restSupport the showDaily Prayer with Reverend Ben Cooper now reaches 185 countries and 3,012 cities worldwide through the Global Blend Radio network.This is a listener-funded global ministry. If these daily prayers strengthen your faith or help you through difficult seasons, would you consider becoming a monthly prayer partner for just £3 per month?Your support enables us to continue recording, hosting, and broadcasting daily biblical encouragement across the nations — keeping this ministry free and accessible to everyone who needs it.You can support today at GlobalBlendRadio.comTogether, we can keep prayer moving across the world.To submit a prayer request or connect with our global prayer community, visit DailyPrayer.ukBuy me a Coffee 

Send us your feedback — we're listeningIsaiah 41:10 — Do Not Be Afraid, God Is Holding You Steady Recorded live from London, England — where faith meets the world in daily prayer and global hope. Houston • Lagos • Singapore • Wellington • Tokyo COURAGE • CONFIDENCE • TRUST Christian prayer for fear and anxiety • trusting God during uncertain times • finding courage through faith • prayer for strength and confidence  Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” There are moments in life when uncertainty can feel louder than confidence. We may not know how a situation will unfold. We may not know what tomorrow will bring. Questions about family, health, finances, work, and the future can sometimes create a quiet fear that sits beneath the surface of daily life. Many people carry that feeling today. Fear often grows in the space between what we know and what we do not know. It tries to convince us that we are facing the future alone and that everything depends upon our ability to control what lies ahead. Yet God speaks directly into those fears with words of reassurance. He does not simply tell His people not to be afraid. He gives them a reason. His presence remains with them. The promise of Isaiah is not that life will always be simple. The promise is that God will strengthen, help, and uphold His people through whatever they face. The Lord is not standing at a distance watching our struggles. He is actively sustaining us through them. Father, thank You that Your presence remains constant even when life feels uncertain. Thank You that I never face today's challenges or tomorrow's questions without Your help. Jesus, when fear tries to steal my peace, help me remember Your promises. When uncertainty begins to cloud my thinking, remind me that You are still leading, still working, and still holding me securely in Your hands. Holy Spirit, fill my heart with courage today. Replace fear with trust, anxiety with peace, and uncertainty with confidence in God's faithfulness. Help me walk forward knowing that I am supported by Your strength and guided by Your wisdom. Across the world, from Houston to Lagos, from Singapore to Wellington and Tokyo, may hearts be strengthened by the assurance that God remains present, faithful, and able to hold His people steady through every season. Jesús, ayúdame a confiar en Ti hoy. Jesus, ajuda-me a confiar em Ti hoje. Jesus, tulungan Mo akong magtiwala sa Iyo ngayon. Father, thank You that Your strong hand is holding me steady. Amen. Isaiah 41 prayer, prayer for courage, Christian encouragement, prayer for anxiety, trusting God, prayer for strength, daily prayer, Christian devotion Christian prayer for fear and anxiety, trusting God during uncertain times, finding courage through faith, prayer for strength and confidenceSupport the showDaily Prayer with Reverend Ben Cooper now reaches 185 countries and 3,012 cities worldwide through the Global Blend Radio network.This is a listener-funded global ministry. If these daily prayers strengthen your faith or help you through difficult seasons, would you consider becoming a monthly prayer partner for just £3 per month?Your support enables us to continue recording, hosting, and broadcasting daily biblical encouragement across the nations — keeping this ministry free and accessible to everyone who needs it.You can support today at GlobalBlendRadio.comTogether, we can keep prayer moving across the world.To submit a prayer request or connect with our global prayer community, visit DailyPrayer.ukBuy me a Coffee 

God is a promise-keeping God.From the moment sin entered the world, God began unfolding a plan to rescue and redeem humanity. In this message, we continue our journey Through the Bible by exploring the life of Abraham and the covenant that would shape the rest of Scripture.Using passages from Genesis 12-37 and Galatians 3, we explore:• The three promises God made to Abraham• What a biblical covenant really means• Why faith is trusting God even when you can't see the outcome• How God's promises survived Abraham's failures• The stories of Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph• Why God's timeline is often longer than our plans• How the covenant with Abraham points to Jesus• What God's promises mean for believers todayThis message isn't just about Abraham's story.It's about discovering that God's faithfulness is greater than our mistakes.Abraham lied.He doubted.He got impatient.Yet God remained faithful to every promise He made.“Abraham believed the Lord, and He credited it to him as righteousness.” — Genesis 15:6God's promises are bigger than our mistakes.God's timeline is longer than our plans.God's purpose is greater than our understanding.

Send us Fan MailPsalms 1 and 2 serve as the introduction to the entire book of Psalms, giving readers the lens through which the rest of the collection should be understood.In this episode, we explore the two paths presented in Psalm 1. The righteous delight in God's Torah, meditate on it day and night, and become like a fruitful tree planted by streams of water. In contrast, the wicked reject God's instruction and ultimately face judgment. Right from the opening psalm, readers are confronted with a choice: Which path will they follow?Psalm 2 then shifts our attention from individuals to nations and kings. The rulers of the earth rebel against God and His purposes, believing they can throw off His authority. Yet God's response is clear: He has established His King, and no earthly power can overturn His plans. While human kingdoms rise and fall, God's King will ultimately reign overall.Together, Psalms 1 and 2 provide the foundation for the entire book. Parents, this summer we want to challenge you to read through the Psalms with your children. As you read, encourage them to listen for the vivid images and pictures found throughout the poems. Have them draw what they hear and then ask a simple question: "What does this teach us about God?" For an extra challenge, choose one psalm and memorize it together as a family. These ancient songs were meant to be remembered, prayed, and carried in the hearts of God's people.If you want the FREE hand outs that go along with this series, sign up for our newsletter at our website. Our website is The Context and Color of the BibleWe are on Facebook - The Context and Color of the Bible | FacebookWe are on Instagram - @contextandcolorofthebibleWe are on YouTube - The Context and Color of the Bible - YouTubeMusic: Tabuk by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4453-tabukLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Have you ever felt unqualified for what God was asking you to do? When we picture the remnant rising in the last days, we often imagine fearless warriors who never doubt, never hesitate, and never struggle. But Scripture tells a different story. Moses argued. Gideon doubted. Ananias hesitated. Peter wrestled with obedience. Yet God used each of them powerfully. In this episode, Tracy shares a personal story about reluctantly stepping into a ministry role she felt completely unprepared for—and the surprising lesson God taught her about weakness, obedience, and trusting Him despite fear. If you've ever wondered whether you're qualified, gifted enough, or ready for what God has called you to do, this message is for you. You were not called because you are fearless. You were called because He is faithful. _____ This podcast is listener-supported. If you believe in equipping believers to discern truth, leave deception, and stand firm in Christ, you can help carry this mission forward here:

Why do people make excuses when God invites them to receive His gifts? In this sermon on Luke 14:15–24, Pastor Tyrel Bramwell explores Jesus' parable of the Great Banquet and the tragic reality that many value earthly blessings more than the heavenly bread Christ freely gives. From farms and careers to family pressures and personal desires, our excuses often reveal deeper idols of the heart. Yet God continues to call sinners to His feast of grace, where forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life are freely given through Christ. This sermon examines the tension between the “now” and the “not yet” of God's kingdom, the danger of treating God's gifts as optional, and the overflowing mercy of the Savior who fills His banquet hall with the poor, crippled, blind, and lame—including us. Come and hear the invitation of the King who desires to bless you with His bread both now and forever.

Book of Isaiah chapter 6 records Isaiah's powerful vision of the Lord seated on His throne, high and exalted, while the seraphim proclaim, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty.” Confronted by God's holiness, Isaiah becomes aware of his own sinfulness and cries out in humility. Yet God, in His mercy, cleanses Isaiah with a burning coal from the altar and calls him into service. When God asks, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Isaiah responds with willing surrender, “Here am I! Send me.” This chapter reminds us that an encounter with God's holiness leads to transformation, cleansing, and a willingness to fulfill His purpose. Key Verse: “Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: ‘Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us?' Then I said, ‘Here am I! Send me.'” — Isaiah 6:8 Hashtags: #Isaiah6 #HereAmISendMe #HolyHolyHoly #CalledByGod #GodsHoliness #FaithfulService #PurifiedForPurpose #AnswerTheCall #WorshipAndSurrender #BibleStudyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.“Thank you for listening to SendMe Radio — where we share the Gospel, inspire faith, and keep you connected with powerful stories and updates from around the world. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe so you never miss a message.And remember — you can listen to SendMe Radio streaming 24/7 at www.sendmeradio.net or simply say: ‘Hey Alexa, play SendMe Radio.'

Foolish Confounds the Wise What if the very thing you trust most is the thing keeping you from seeing God clearly? For centuries, people have struggled with Jesus for the same reason. The Jews wanted power. The Greeks wanted wisdom. The Romans wanted strength. Yet God sent a crucified Savior. What looked foolish to the world became the very wisdom and power of God. In this message, we’ll explore Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 1 and uncover why the gospel still challenges our assumptions today. Why do some people embrace the cross while others reject it? Why do we so often trust our own logic, intelligence, expectations, and abilities instead of God’s ways? And what wisdom have we embraced that might be making Jesus harder to recognize? The gospel is not advice about how to become a better version of yourself. It is the announcement of what God has already done through Christ. Because every culture has a kind of wisdom that makes Jesus harder to recognize, but God’s wisdom is still greater than our own. 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 Discussion topics HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? What do you think Paul means when he says, “God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise”? Which of the five points from this week’s message stood out to you the most, and why? The gospel doesn’t fit our logic. The gospel cannot be discovered through intelligence alone. The gospel offends our expectations. God uses the wrong people. God’s method doesn’t impress the world. Pastor David said, “The gospel is not advice. It is news.” What is the difference between those two ideas? HEART – How did it make you feel? The message challenged us with this question: “What wisdom have we embraced that might be keeping us from seeing Jesus clearly?” How would you answer that personally? Examples of things that some people trust: Your own logic? Your own experience? Your own abilities? Other people’s opinions? Have you ever found yourself disappointed with God because He didn’t work the way you expected Him to work? Which statement hits closest to home right now? “The cross starts where self-help ends.” “Information can inform the mind, but only revelation transforms the heart.” “God often chooses people human wisdom wouldn’t even interview.” “The power was never in the packaging. The power was always in the message.” HANDS – What are you going to do with it? Is there a situation you’re currently trying to solve through effort, strategy, or control that may require surrender and prayer instead? Who is one person in your life that needs to hear the hope of the gospel? What is one practical step you can take to engage them this week? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next

It is one of the curious habits of God that He delights in beginning immense things with what appear to us very small beginnings. When Our Lord walked beside the Sea of Galilee and summoned twelve ordinary men to follow Him, Heaven itself was not improvising. This was no afterthought. The calling of the Twelve was the unfolding of a design hidden in the heart of God from the foundation of the world.For the Lord who chose twelve disciples was the same God who had once chosen twelve tribes through the sons of Jacob. Israel had been called to gather the nations to the worship of the true God, yet now, in Christ, a new and greater Israel was being formed. The number itself was no accident. Jesus was gathering around Himself the beginnings of the Church, the family through whom the Father intended to bring salvation to the ends of the earth.What is particularly astonishing is not merely that He called twelve men, but that He called such men. Fishermen, tax collectors, and zealots are hardly the material from which one would expect a kingdom to be built. Yet God has always preferred to display His strength through human weakness, so that the glory might be seen to belong to Him and not to His instruments.The Twelve would become apostles, the first bishops of the Catholic Church, entrusted with teaching, sanctifying, and guiding the people of God. Through their ministry, and through those who succeeded them, the voice of Christ would continue to echo across the centuries. Thus, the Church is not an invention of men but the continuation of the Lord's own work in human history.And perhaps there is a lesson here for each of us. Christ did not merely call twelve men long ago; He continues to call souls today. The same divine voice that summoned Peter from his nets summons us from our distractions and our little kingdoms. For God's great purpose has always been the same: to gather His scattered children into communion with Himself, until the whole world becomes, at last, one family in the household of the Father.Such is the strange and marvelous way of God. He begins with twelve, and intends nothing less than the redemption of the world. --- Help Spread the Good News --- Father Brian's homilies are shared freely thanks to generous listeners like you. If his words have blessed you, consider supporting this volunteer effort. Every gift helps us continue recording and sharing the hope of Jesus—one homily at a time. Give Here: https://frbriansoliven.org/give

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

Change is rarely comfortable, but it is often the pathway God uses to grow us. Many of us want God to change our circumstances while resisting the changes He wants to make within us. Yet God is more concerned with who we are becoming than with our temporary comfort.Throughout Scripture, God transformed ordinary people through seasons of change. Abraham and Sarah waited for a promise. Joseph endured betrayal and imprisonment. Peter failed publicly before becoming a bold leader. In each case, God used challenges and uncertainty to shape character and prepare them for His purpose.The same is true for us. Sometimes God calls us to make changes that are within our control—changing our attitudes, forgiving someone, developing better habits, or taking a step of obedience. Other times, we face situations that only God can change. In both cases, our responsibility is to trust Him and remain firmly planted on the solid foundation of Christ.Today, instead of asking, "God, why am I going through this?" try asking, "God, what are You teaching me through this?" You may discover that the change you're experiencing is preparing you for the next level of God's purpose for your life.

When you think about the size of the universe, it's easy to feel tiny. But Psalm 8 reminds me that the God who made the moon and stars is still mindful of us.

Have you ever felt like you've wandered too far from the path God intended for you? Perhaps choices, circumstances, or disappointments have taken you in a direction you never expected, leaving you wondering whether God can still use your life for His purposes. Yet God's grace has a remarkable way of meeting us where we are and redirecting our steps toward something greater.In this episode, Tracie and Abigail explore the life of hymn writer Helen Lemmel. Though her journey was marked by unexpected turns and difficult seasons, Helen's story is a powerful reminder that no one is beyond God's reach. When she turned her focus back to Christ, God used her life to leave a legacy that continues to encourage believers generations later. Her testimony reminds us that when we pivot in the right direction—and turn our eyes upon Jesus—God can transform our story into something that brings glory to Him and hope to others.If you know of someone who can be helped by listening to the Abundant Living Podcast, please share this episode with them. Please let us know what you think by rating and reviewing this podcast in your podcasting app! We love hearing from our listeners, whether through comments on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠our Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or messaging us on our website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠christianladiesfellowship.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You may also apply to be a part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠our private Facebook group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, but be sure to answer all the questions and agree to the group rules when you click to join.You can also email Tracie directly at tburns@immanueljax.org. Thank you for being part of this uplifting and encouraging community of ladies who want to live abundantly for the Lord!

Judges 4:1–24 with Pastor David Maestas In Judges 4, Israel once again finds itself trapped in the familiar cycle of rebellion, oppression, and desperation. After turning away from the Lord, they spend twenty years under the harsh rule of King Jabin and the military oppression of Sisera. But in the midst of fear and uncertainty, God raises up an unlikely leader: Deborah. As a prophetess and judge, Deborah stands as a powerful example of wisdom, courage, and faithfulness. Through her leadership, God calls Barak to step forward and lead Israel into battle. Yet Barak hesitates. Though God had already given clear direction, fear causes him to seek reassurance before obeying. This chapter reminds us that faith is not the absence of fear. Faith is choosing obedience despite it. Throughout Judges 4, we see God accomplish His purposes through unexpected people and unlikely circumstances. Deborah leads. Barak follows. Jael enters the story in a surprising way. And ultimately, the victory belongs not to human strength, military strategy, or personal courage, but to the Lord. One of the central themes of Judges 4 is that God often works through people who are simply willing to say yes. The heroes of this chapter are not perfect. They wrestle with fear, uncertainty, and limitations. Yet God uses them anyway. This passage also challenges us to consider how often we delay obedience while waiting for perfect confidence. Like Barak, many of us know what God is asking us to do, but we hesitate because we want more certainty, more guarantees, or someone else to go with us. Meanwhile, Deborah's example reminds us what it looks like to trust God enough to step into difficult assignments with confidence in Him rather than confidence in ourselves. Judges 4 invites us to reflect on several important questions: Where is fear keeping me from obeying God? Am I waiting for certainty when God is asking for faith? Have I underestimated how God might use ordinary people for extraordinary purposes? Am I trusting in my own strength, or am I depending on the Lord?

Today we are going to finish Philippians 2 by looking atverses 28 through 30 where we are talkingabout risking everything for Christ. That is exactly what Epaphroditus did. Aswe have read through this chapter, we have seen how Jesus Christ lefteverything in heaven. He gave up His rights, came down to earth, made Himself aservant, and became obedient even to the death of the cross. As a result, Godhighly exalted Him. We also see the example of the Apostle Paul himself. Paulleft everything in his old life. As we read later in the book of Philippians,he counted it all as dung—a pile of manure—compared to what he gained inChrist. He made the great statement in chapter 1, “For to me, to live isChrist, and to die is gain.” Theexample of Timothy shows us the same truth. Timothy left his family, hisparents, and his friends in the city of Lystra to follow the Apostle Paul andto follow Jesus Christ. Now we come to Epaphroditus. He risked his life and “didnot regard his own life.” The phrase “not regarding his life”carries the idea of taking a great risk. Epaphroditus was willing to riskeverything for Christ. Hecarried the offering from the Philippians to Paul in Rome. The journey waslong. The roads were dangerous. The conditions were difficult. Paul was inprison and could potentially be executed, which meant Epaphroditus might sufferthe same fate. Somewhere along the way, he became gravely ill. He became sosick that it appeared he would die. Yet God had mercy on him and spared hislife. God also had mercy on Paul, sparing him additional sorrow. Yetthrough it all, Epaphroditus continued serving. Remarkably, he was moreconcerned about the people worrying about him than he was about the possibilityof his own death. So Paul tells the Philippians in verse 29: “Receive himtherefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem.” Godhonors His servants. The world honors celebrities. God honors faithfulness. Godhonors sacrifice. God honors those who quietly give themselves in service toothers. He also teaches us to honor those to whom honor is due. (Proverbs 3:27) AsI think about this passage, I am reminded of the famous words of Jim Elliot: “Heis no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” Thetruth is that every believer is called to risk something for Jesus Christ.Maybe not our lives, but certainly our comfort, our convenience, ourreputation, our resources, and even our time. The greatest investment we canmake on earth is not in temporal things, but in eternal things. Thatis what Paul talks about in 2 Corinthians 4. As he begins that chapter, hewrites: “Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy,we do not lose heart.” In other words, we do not quit. We do not give up.We do not faint. Then he goes on to say verses 117-18: “For our lightaffliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceedingand eternal weight of glory... while we do not look at the things which areseen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen aretemporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” RememberPaul on his final journey to Jerusalem in Acts 20:24. The believers repeatedlywarned him that suffering awaited him there. Yet Paul declared: “Nor do Icount my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy.” Myfriend, that was true of Paul. It was true of Epaphroditus. May it be true ofus as well. May we be willing to risk everything for the sake of Christ. Let'spray. Father, help us to live courageously for Jesus Christ. Give us heartsthat value eternal things above temporary comforts. May we be willing to spendand be spent for Your glory. We pray this in Jesus' name. Amen. Godbless and may you have a wonderful, wonderful day!

What do you do when hard times come? Where do you turn when the bottom drops out of your life? A lot less is certain in life than we want to believe is. Pastor Malik Murray continues our series, What's the Point, a look through Ecclesiastes, at meaning, purpose, and the point behind it all. The Book of Ecclesiastes can be difficult. It contains lists of bad situations and meaningless things. We want to be in control of our lives! Yet God wants us to understand that even though we may try to plan and sugarcoat our lives, in the end, what is worthwhile is knowing Him.The most certain thing in an uncertain world is the sovereignty of God, and that certainty frees us to live faithfully. Everything He does works in and through us in exceedingly abundant ways, always!

Joseph spent years confined in an Egyptian dungeon for a crime he did not commit. Yet God was not absent—He was refining Joseph's faith, strengthening him with His presence, and preparing him for promises that would be fulfilled in God's time, not Joseph's. In this episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef encourages a different kind of praying when you feel stuck: don't only pray for a way out—pray for God's will to be worked into you. If the Lord is using hardship to discipline, correct, or mature you, receive it with humility so you don't miss His purpose. Trying to manipulate God's will through prayer only produces frustration; faith learns to wait. Dr. Youssef then turns to Jesus in Gethsemane—the perfect model of surrendered prayer: “Not as I will, but as you will” (Matthew 26:39) and “may your will be done” (Matthew 26:42). Christ taught His disciples to pray the same way (Matthew 6:10), because real victory in trials comes through submission, not control. When you're weary, ask the Holy Spirit to help you pray, to intercede, and to deepen your grasp of God's love—so you can trust and obey in the valley as confidently as on the mountaintop. Prayer: God, I come to You in a difficult place. I pray that Your will would be accomplished in this season of my life. Help me to trust You and wait on You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him, . . .” (Genesis 39:20-21).  Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon series Joseph: Portrait of a Winner: LISTEN NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

Small But Mighty, Part 1: "Gideon and the 300"Judges 7:2-7 Have you ever noticed that God rarely works the way we expect Him to? This Sunday, we'll kick off a brand-new series: Small but Mighty. We'll look at one of the most surprising military victories in the entire Bible: Gideon and the 300. When God called Gideon, he was hiding in a winepress, convinced he was the least qualified person around. Yet God chose him anyway. And when Gideon finally rallied an army of 32,000 men to face an enemy of 135,000 — God said,  You have too many.  Too many? Only God would say that.  Join us this Sunday as we dig into Judges 6 & 7 and discover why God is far less interested in the size of your group than the condition of your heart. He doesn't need a crowd. He wants committed people — fully surrendered, nothing held back, ready to be used for something only He can get the credit for.  This message will challenge you to ask a simple but powerful question: Am I dry wood or wet wood? Am I on fire for God or am I a lukewarm follower of Jesus? 

What happens when the wells of life get stopped up? In this powerful message, we explore the story of Isaac in Genesis 26 and discover how the battle over wells was about much more than water—it was about access, blessing, purpose, and God's provision. From the daily struggles faced by millions around the world who lack access to clean water to the spiritual reality of our need for the Living Water of God's Spirit, this sermon challenges us to examine what may be blocking the flow of God's life in us. Just as Isaac faced conflict, opposition, jealousy, and discouragement while digging wells, many of us encounter obstacles that threaten to stop our spiritual growth. Yet God calls us to keep digging until we find the place of abundance, purpose, and blessing. In this message you'll discover: • The significance of Isaac's wells in Genesis 26 • How the enemy attempts to stop up the wells of our spiritual lives • The connection between physical water and spiritual thirst • What it means to create good soil for God's Word to grow • How Jesus fulfills our deepest thirst through the Living Water of the Holy Spirit • Why persistence in God's calling leads to breakthrough Jesus declared, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. Rivers of living water will brim and spill out of the depths of anyone who believes in Me." (John 7:37-39) If you're feeling dry, discouraged, stuck, or thirsty for more of God, this message is for you. #Genesis26 #Isaac #LivingWater #HolySpirit #ChristianSermon #Faith #TrustGod #BibleTeaching #JesusChrist #RelateChurch

What is church hurt? Is every negative experience in church truly "church hurt," or is there a difference between hurt caused by people and the truth of God's Word confronting our lives?In this message, we explore one of the most talked-about and misunderstood topics in the church today. Looking at the conflict between Paul and Barnabas in Acts 15, we discover that even the early church was filled with imperfect people, disagreements, and difficult moments. Yet God's plan for His people has always included community, forgiveness, and the local church.In this sermon, you'll learn:• The difference between biblical correction and genuine church hurt• Why imperfect people can never perfectly represent Jesus• How unresolved hurt can lead to isolation and spiritual stagnation• Why forgiveness is essential for healing and freedom• How to keep your eyes on Jesus instead of the failures of othersOne of the most powerful truths from this message is simple:Don't judge Jesus by Judas.People may fail us. Leaders may disappoint us. Friends may hurt us. But Jesus remains faithful, and His church remains His plan for reaching and growing His people.

If you’ve ever heard the expression “albatross around my neck”—a phrase referring to a tiresome burden—you’ve heard an allusion to English poet Samuel Coleridge’s famous poem Rime of the Ancient Mariner. In the poem, a sailor shoots and kills a harmless, friendly albatross. The crew believes the mariner’s cruel deed curses their voyage, and forces him to wear the dead bird around his neck as punishment. Are there regrets in your life that feel like a heavy weight around your neck? All of us have moments we’d do anything to take back. It can feel like we’re cursed to carry the weight of our guilt and regret forever. Yet God’s grace can free our hearts from even the most painful regret. We all have sin (1 John 1:8, 10), but when we honestly confess our burdens to God, we’re promised he “will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (v. 9). As His grace rushes in, His light and love can flow through us (2:10), freeing us to love those around us (v. 10; 3:14). In Coleridge’s poem, the tormented mariner too eventually experiences this grace. When love for God’s creation rushes into his heart and compels him to pray, the albatross falls off his neck, vanishing forever “like lead into the sea.”

Welcome to our Reveal podcast,Welcome, Today we are in a new series called, Broken People, Faithful God. One of the most encouraging themes throughout Scripture is that God rarely works through perfect people. Instead, the Bible is filled with flawed individuals, people who doubted, failed, sinned, and struggled. Yet God's faithfulness remained constant. Their stories remind us that God's plans are not dependent on human perfection but on His character and grace.To support this ministry and help us continue our God-given mission, clickhere:Subscribe to our channel for the latest sermons:https://www.youtube.com/@revealvineyardLearn more about Vineyard Church Reveal Campus:https://www.revealvineyard.com/Follow us on social media!Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/vineyardrevealcampusFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/RevealVineyard

Revelation 12:12–17 presents a profound theological portrait of the ongoing spiritual warfare between God's people and Satan, who, though defeated in his attempt to destroy the church through pagan Rome, responds with escalating strategies through new agents of deception and persecution. The passage reveals that Satan's wrath intensifies as he knows his time is short, prompting him to shift from violent persecution to heretical doctrine—symbolized by a flood from the serpent's mouth—aimed at corrupting the church's purity. Yet God preserves His people through divine protection, illustrated by the woman's flight toward the wilderness, which is not a literal place but is a symbolic state of obscurity, sustained by the Lord's providential care through Christian emperors and ecumenical councils that rejected heresies like Arianism, Nestorianism, and Pelagianism. Ultimately, the remnant of the woman's seed—the faithful believers who uphold God's commandments and the testimony of Jesus—face a final, prolonged assault through the beast and false prophet, signaling the culmination of Satan's opposition before his ultimate defeat. The sermon underscores the necessity of constant vigilance, spiritual readiness, and reliance on Christ's victory, reminding believers that while Satan is defeated at the cross, he remains a relentless adversary until the final consummation.

In Part 27 of our Genesis series, we examine the story of Sarai, Abram, and Hagar from Genesis 16. Faced with a delayed promise, Sarai and Abram attempt to solve their problem through human effort, creating conflict and pain. Yet God meets Hagar in her suffering, revealing Himself as the God who sees, hears, and comforts the broken.

"Thatyou may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in themidst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights inthe world."  Whata description of the world in which we live today—a crooked and perversegeneration. The word crooked means twisted or bent away from God's standard.The word perverse means distorted or corrupted. Does that not describe ourworld today? Truth is being redefined. Morality is being distorted. Darkness iscelebrated while righteousness is mocked. We see it on every hand, all aroundus, throughout our world, and especially in our country, the USA. Yet God hascalled us not to hide from the world. He has called us to shine in it. Rememberin Matthew 5:14, Jesus said, "You are the light of the world."In verse 16, He said, "Let your light so shine before men, that theymay see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." Light doesnot complain about the darkness. It does not fight with the darkness. Myfriend, all it has to do is shine, and the darkness flees. Iam convinced with all my heart that if Christians truly let the light of JesusChrist shine—remember, He said, "I am the light of the world." NowHe lives in us. His light shines through us. It is not our light; it is Hislight, and it shines through us. If we would only let it shine, the darknesswould be pushed back. It would flee. You do not go into a room and curse thedarkness when it is dark. No, you simply turn on the light switch. As soon asthe light comes on, everything becomes plain and clear, and you can see acrossthe room. That is what we do as believers. Our light shines. Paulsays believers are to be blameless and harmless. This does not mean sinlessperfection, but lives marked by integrity and purity. The world should not seehypocrisy in our lives. Our lives should support the message that we preach. Oneof the greatest tragedies is when Christians damage their testimony throughbitterness, compromise, anger, or constant negativity. We just talked aboutthat in verse 14. Yousee, the darker the world becomes, the brighter faithful believers will shine. Thinkabout Daniel in Babylon, along with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Thinkabout Joseph in Egypt and the difference he made. Or even Noah before theflood. They lived in corrupt cultures, yet their lives stood out. The ApostlePaul and the early believers lived in a Roman culture that was dark, corrupt,and cruel. But, my friend, the light was shining. As it shone through theirlives, wonderful things took place that turned the world upside down. Yousee, God never intended for His people to blend into the darkness. Yet thatseems to be what so many churches and believers are trying to do today. Youcannot tell the difference between a believer and the world around them. NoticePaul says we shine in the midst of a crooked generation. We are in the world,but we are not of the world. That is why Jesus prayed in John 17 that theFather would not take believers out of the world, but that He would keep themfrom the evil one. Sohow do we shine in a practical way? We shine through holy living. We shinethrough kindness. We shine through truth. We shine through love. We shinethrough joy in suffering. We shine through forgiveness. We shine throughfaithfulness. A Christian filled with the HolySpirit of God becomes a lighthouse in a dark culture. Peoplearound us desperately need hope. They are confused, fearful, and empty. Manyhave never seen genuine Christianity lived out consistently.  Itrust God will use you and me to make a difference in the world in which welive, because someone is watching how we handle stress, disappointment,conflict, and suffering. Are you shining clearly today? Or are you blendinginto the darkness? Ask God to make your light shine as a bright testimony forJesus Christ. Remember this: the darker the night, the more visible the light. 

Pride has plagued mankind from the advent of our creation. So often the devil invites us to seek after achievements that are an affront to Our Lord. In a time long past, our race thought they could attain to the heights of heaven by their own artifice. This sinful pride was met with the dispersion of tongues. Yet God, in His infinite mercy, bequeathed His Apostles with the known languages of man, so that those sheep once lost due their own sinfulness may find a way back to Him for everlasting life.

Persecution has followed the church from its earliest days. Yet God uses even opposition to spread the gospel of salvation. Today, R.C. Sproul shows why persecution is inseparable from our identifying with Christ as His disciples. Get two exclusive 40th-anniversary edition books by R.C. Sproul with your donation today: The Holiness of God and Chosen by God. You'll also receive digital access to his teaching series The Persecuted Church: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request digital teaching series with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Meet Today's Teacher:   R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Send us Fan MailDeuteronomy 29–30 records Moses renewing God's covenant with Israel and setting before them life and death, blessing and curse. Moses reminds Israel of God's works in Egypt and the wilderness and warns that turning to other gods will bring judgment and exile. Yet God promises restoration if His people return to Him with all their heart. The Lord declares that His command is near and calls Israel to choose life by loving Him, obeying His voice, and holding fast to Him.Support the showStay engaged with new and up-to-date content, including newsletters, articles, podcasts, etc. Download the Teach Me the Bible App from any app store or Apple TV/Roku device.

Nehemiah 8:9-10 reveals a powerful truth for believers struggling with regret, guilt, and shame: God’s grace is stronger than our failures. In this devotional, Jennifer Slattery explores how shame often traps Christians in cycles of self-condemnation, replaying past mistakes and fearing they will never truly change. Yet God does not call His children to remain crushed beneath shame. Instead, He invites them to receive His forgiveness, walk in restoration, and find strength through His joy. Using the story of Israel’s return from exile, this devotional highlights how the people grieved over the consequences of their sin while also experiencing the overwhelming grace and provision of God. Though the rubble of brokenness remained, God wanted His people to rebuild from a place of hope rather than condemnation. In the same way, believers today can trust that God is patiently healing, transforming, and restoring them through His grace. Highlights Shame often keeps believers trapped in cycles of fear and self-condemnation. Self-awareness is an important step toward healing and spiritual growth. God’s grace meets believers in the middle of their brokenness and failures. Nehemiah 8 reminds us that “the joy of the Lord” is our strength. Biblical joy comes from knowing God is present, forgiving, and restoring. God does not want His children rebuilding their lives from shame. Healing and transformation often happen gradually through God’s grace. Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: How God’s Grace Breaks the Cycle of ShameBy: Jennifer Slattery Bible Reading:Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, “This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” - Nehemiah 8:9-10 Do you ever lie in bed, replaying your every unkind word or hurtful deed from the day? Do memories of past sins and regrets seize your mind and steal your peace? Do you find yourself looking back with sorrow at the damage your unfiltered words, angry outbursts, or triggered responses caused, longing for a do-over, but also fearful that you’ll forever fall into these unhelpful patterns? You’re not alone. People often state that the hardest person to forgive is ourselves. There’s truth to that, likely because we so long to live and love like Jesus. Yet, we often fall short, and not for lack of trying. The other day, I sat with a friend broken by a relational conflict she feared would irrevocably fracture the connection she’d been working to build. Her voice quivered as she said, “I don’t know why I act this way. In the moment, my perspective feels valid, and all I can see is how the other person hurt me. And suddenly, I question their character and intent. Self-isolating thoughts start playing through my mind, like, “She doesn’t really care about you.” “She wants something from you.” “He thinks you’re too much.” “You’re annoying him.” “She’s judging you.” “Why work through this when she’s just going to bail on the relationship anyway?” My friend’s hunched shoulders and the dark shadows beneath her eyes gave evidence to her sleepless night and the heavy weight of shame she carried. A tear slid down her cheek. With a deep breath, she brushed it away. “But then, later,” she said, “I see that I overreacted and made things worse. I see the pattern, but I don’t know how to break it.” Have you been there? The journey toward wholeness and holiness is rarely comfortable or quick. Yes, God holds the power to transform us with a whisper or glance. In my experience, however, He molds my soul gradually, alerting me to an issue, allowing me to see the fallout of my choices, to grieve my brokenness and sin, before He reveals the steps toward victory. Speaking from experience, I shared a statement that encouraged me when I was just beginning my healing journey. “Self-awareness is the first step to change. You can’t heal what you don’t see or won’t acknowledge.” Listening, my friend gave a slight nod and offered a half-laugh, half-huff. “Ignorance is bliss?” she asked. To which I replied, “Temporarily, perhaps. But it’s often when we’re staring at the rubble we’ve helped create that we’re most able to see, and rest in, God’s all-encompassing grace. To gain strength from His grace.” That’s the message today’s passage conveys. Seventy years after what scholars call the Babylonian exile, an event caused by ancient Israel’s long-standing spiritual rebellion, the Lord brought them back to their homeland to rebuild what their sin had destroyed. He sent them with His abundant provision—gold, silver, animals, priests to lead their faith, and numerous workers to repair Jerusalem’s walls and their sacred temple. Scripture tells us that: “The whole company numbered 42,360, besides their 7,337 menservants and maidservants; and they also had 245 men and women singers. There were 736 horses, 245 mules, 435 camels and 6,720 donkeys” (Ezra 2:66, NIV). In short, the Lord showered them with blessings and tangible evidence of His favor. And they celebrated. They celebrated the work He enabled them to do, the provisions He provided, and the forgiveness He granted. But this didn’t erase the grief they felt at all that had been lost. The Scripture their religious leaders read brought praise… and a deep awareness of their sin and all it had cost. Seeing their weeping, Ezra, Nehemiah, and the Lord’s priests spoke today’s passage, encouraging them to receive and find joy in God’s grace. Biblical joy goes much deeper than a temporary emotion based on our circumstances. It’s the deep awareness of God’s grace—knowing He’s with us, transforming us, rewriting our story, and working all things, our greatest failures included, for our good and His glory. This might not fix the damage we’ve caused. The ancient Israelites still had to clear away the rubble that once formed their homeland, to rebuild the fractured walls and restore the destroyed temple. But God wanted them to do so as His beloved, empowered, and absolved children, not from a place of shame. Shame is exhausting, heavy, and defeating. Grace brings hope, joy, and strength. It lifts the burdens we carry and plants us more firmly in God’s firm yet gentle embrace. Intersecting Life & Faith: I sometimes wonder if shame functions as a defense mechanism or a subconscious fail-safe. Is there a part of us that believes our inner critic protects us from future harm by keeping our unwanted behaviors in check? It’s also a powerful tool of the enemy strategically lobbed to hold us captive. Regardless, through Christ, we always have a way out. Our sins don’t repel Him; instead, He draws close, with arms open wide—nailed to the cross. We honor the sacrifice He made by learning to receive, in our innermost wounded places, the forgiveness for which He paid such a high price. That takes time, healing, prayer, and regularly connecting with Him; sitting in His presence. But the more we do so, take in His truth, and rest in His love, the weaker our shame, the greater our joy, and the more enduring our strength. If you battle shame over a present struggle or past sins, express this to God, and ask Him to break your shame. Then, keep your soul oriented to Him, your spiritual ears attuned to His voice, and your figurative feet ready to follow, trusting Him to lead you step by step, in His perfect timing. Further Reading:2 Corinthians 7:910Isaiah 57:14-15Habakkuk 3:19 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today's Promise: 2 Peter 3:9 Life can leave us feeling discouraged, weak, and far behind where we thought we would be spiritually. In this episode, we explore how God is not impatient or disappointed with His children. He understands our struggles, our failures, and our frailty better than we do.   You will hear how some of the greatest people in Scripture experienced painful setbacks, including Peter's denial of Christ and Moses' long journey in the wilderness. Yet God never gave up on them, and He is not giving up on you either. Even when growth feels slow, God is faithfully shaping your life and drawing you closer to Himself.   If you have ever felt like you are failing in your walk with God, this episode will remind you that His grace is greater than your weakness. God is patiently working in your life, fulfilling His promises one step at a time.  

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.”

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260509dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion [Jesus said to his disciples] “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.” John 14:16-19 The Promise Do you like being alone? Sure, it can be nice to take a walk by yourself to clear your head or escape to the garage for some quiet tinkering. But when the bad news comes, or the holidays arrive, or the loneliness settles in, do you like being alone? As Jesus prepared his disciples for his departure—both his departure to death on the cross and his departure to heaven at his ascension—he comforted his disciples. He didn't want them to feel abandoned by him and left on their own. So, he made a promise to them. God was going to give his Counselor, the Holy Spirit, to be with them forever. They were not going to be alone, in good times or in bad times. The promise Jesus made to his disciples is also for you. He knows there are times when you are going to feel alone. There will be times when temptation will seem ready to overwhelm you. There will be times that sorrow or trouble or the death of a loved one will leave you standing, not knowing what direction to turn. Yet God has not left you alone. When he made you his child, he sent the Holy Spirit to be with you. By your side, he reminds you of the comfort and promise of the Resurrection. Because Jesus lives, you too will live. No matter what the trial or the sorrow, nothing can take away the sure fulfillment of this promise. You will live because Jesus has rescued you from death. He has rescued you from sin. He has replaced it with eternal life. Prayer: Dearest Jesus, I give thanks that you have not abandoned me but have sent your Holy Spirit to keep your promise of eternal life before me. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.